The train ride over is nothing special, it's the same travel that you have come accustomed to time and time again. Though, there was a portion where you had to travel by more traditional means than train to get to the field hospital. Upon arriving, you find the place to be a bit dreary. Made out of an old workshop that has clearly been repaired from damage likely sustained in past fighting, it is dedicated specifically for pilots, air crew, and other personnel tied to the Air Corps rather than a particular regiment on the front. The building is separated into a male and female wing, and both have rows upon rows of beds. And heading to try and find Liliane,
you see bound to these beds are plenty of various service women with wounds ranging from relatively mild to so extensive that you could mistake them for infantry who had a bad encounter if it wasn't for the fact that such a role was blocked to those of the fairer sex. However, soon enough you would notice Adélaïde sat down on a chair nearby one of these beds, specifically one with a woman with blonde hair and blue eyes who you presume to be Liliane. It is a bit of a surprise to see Adélaïde here though so soon. You expected her to arrive sometime after you spoke to Liliane. She must have started heading here very early in the morning to have beat you here...

"...And honestly, with how things are it's no surprise some treat business like feudal politics. Though I believe the attention it draws is far too extreme to cover any sort of short term gain from it. Besides, you already know my thoughts on those who engage in such unscrupulous tactics given what I told you a few months ago." Adélaïde said, not noticing you as she spoke to the woman, though the wounded pilot in the bed would seem to have her attention turned to you as you approach, and with it, Adélaïde's own gaze follows. "Oh, Miss Valmont. A surprise, but not an unwelcome one. I wasn't expecting you to be here so early. I don't believe you have met Liliane before now, have you?"

"It is indeed my first time seeing her, though I do wish it was under better circumstances. And, Adélaïde, there's no need to be so formal." You say before glancing at Liliane.

"Hello Helene! I'm glad we finally get to meet in person! And, I don't mind the circumstances. It could be worse after all. I'll be back in the air in no time, I'm sure of it!" Liliane says clearly quite chipper despite being stuck in a hospital bed. "I do have a question though that I've been meaning to ask you, though I'm sure you get it a lot. How did you get into the army and why did you want to join? And why the Air corps in particular? I can guess a bit as to the how, but I would like the detail if you'd be so kind."

"I have been asked it a few times, but the one responsible for my interest in the military has to be my Grandfather and his stories of serving under Napolarte. As for why the air corps specifically, it was the closest thing to the front line and actual combat that was also more than just logistics. As for the how, my family's reputation was able to ensure I got officer training, and my hard work allowed me to advance far beyond it to where I am now." You explain.

"Huh, I was wondering if you had a passion for flying or wanted to have a taste of the olden times of knights and such like so many other people seem to be joining for. The air corps seems to attract those who are innovative pioneers who want to push boundaries and romantics who want a taste of the past. Anyway, what brought you here? Did you just want to see me? Or did you want to speak with Adélaïde? Or just the both of us? I wouldn't mind if you came for l'As though, it's understandable if that was the case. After all, she is the best pilot in the air corps!" Liliane says surprisingly unbothered by the thought of her friend eclipsing her entirely.

This however gets Adélaïde to look a bit bothered as she glances to Liliane. "If she was just here to speak with me I'd be quite upset. You have more than proven yourself as more than just a skilled pilot and valuable asset to the Air Corps. You have been in the Escadron even long than I have after all, since the start of the war. Honestly, you deserve more than just to be seen by our Commandant, especially given the fact that much like Lucie you have been alive and fighting for over a year when the average pilot's lifespan is measured in mere weeks if not days in some escadrons. I'd be appalled if you weren't given the respect you deserve." It was a fair point, even if it applied to Adélaïde too, but you certainly weren't going to bring that up.

"Well, I didn't expect Adélaïde to be here so soon, so, I think that answers your question." You say presuming Adélaïde would take some offense if you said you were here for her.

"I suppose then you are in luck you get to talk both of us instead of just one!" Liliane said happily.

>Ask the two about their relationship with each other.
>Ask the two about their thoughts on the murders.
>Ask Liliane about herself.
>Ask Liliane about her view on the escadron and how things have been going.
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots
>Ask Liliane about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.
>Ask Adélaïde about how things have been going.
>Ask Adélaïde about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.
>Drag Adélaïde aside and ask about her alias and where she really is from.
>Ask something else (write in)

(This would be out about an hour earlier from now if my entire post wasn't deleted earlier after I finished it the first time. Also sorry for the massive delay in making the new thread. Also hope the new pastebin with rules helps.)

>>5585450
>Ask Liliane about her view on the escadron and how things have been going.
>Ask Liliane about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.
>Ask Adélaïde about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.

>Ask something else (write in)
And maybe ask what they think about the other Escadrons.

Welcome back, QM.

>>5585458
Supporting

Welcome back. I've missed this.

"I suppose I am. Though, firstly. I want to know how things have been going and your thoughts on them. You know, in your escadron and just for you in general. You seem surprisingly not too bothered by your wounds at least. So, that's good." Her upbeat nature was a bit refreshing compared to the more gloomy sort that some have had in the past.

"Well, I think that Vert is the best escadron in our entire escadre! I mean, we have the legendary l'As, and on top of that we have Ermengardis! And while in the past we haven't had that many aces compared to some of the other escadrons, with Eva having managed to get five victories we are tied with Rouge! And if our Commandant keeps on doing well I'm sure she'll be able to get us to tie with Noir! Then we'll be undisputed the best scout escadron in one of the best escadre's flying for Gallonia! Though, it helps we have the best ace in Gallonia as well! I know things haven't gone too well recently though, with Ermengardis and myself being wounded and stuck here. But we both are alive and we'll be going back in the air soon enough. If anything, all it means is that we are making things fair for the Prußenmarkians given now they just have to deal with Adélaïde and Eva." She clearly was optimistic and still had a fighting spirit. It's almost as if she was like one of the many fresh recruits ready to face the enemy in the glorious battle that war was portrayed as, yet she had been fighting since the war started and still had that high esprit de corps that seemed to falter at times.

"I'm glad to hear things seem to not have held you down. Mind sharing your thoughts on the aircraft you faced and flew? This goes to the both of you." You say calmly and a bit of a smile.

Adélaïde looked to Liliane and gave her a nod, seemingly letting her go first. The wounded ace saying "Well, if we go all the way back to the start, the original Dupont, the 4 P, was alright. I mean, compared to aircraft now it's obsolete but otherwise it was good for it's time. Not as good as the Prußenmarkians but that's fine. It did the job until the Bergen's came over and made things more difficult. Of course, a skilled pilot could make up for that difference but even then a disadvantage is a disadvantage. The second one, the 6 C, was much more enjoyable to fly. The controls felt more responsive and the aircraft felt like it could actually stand up to the Bergen. It wasn't as hard hitting as the Bergen due to the gun not being as accurate, but it was just as maneuverable. And if you replaced the gun with the stuff the Pretans used at the time, something basically everyone did when you bought those fancy Conley guns, you easily could get that bit more agility and speed to beat the Bergen. Though you did need to reload more often, and that was a problem. But everything was fine once we got to use our current craft, the Vérany. It's not as responsive unless you slow down, but it's far faster and more accurate. Plus, it's quite stable. Surprisingly so. I'd say it's about as good as a Falke, the original D two one, not the new one. Ours is a bit faster, theirs is slightly more agile at high speed, and I think theirs has two light machine guns instead of one heavy one. As for their new aircraft, I've not really had the chance to fight them much, although I did encounter one. And uh, the rumors of it's performance are a bit exaggerated I think. It's an improvement over the original, a bit faster, a bit more agile, but it's not leaps and bounds better like the first Falke was compared to the Bergen. However, it is still quite bad news for our inexperienced pilots. As for their other craft, they aren't too hard to take care of. Sure, they have gunners that can be dangerous but as long as you aren't just flying in a predictable way you shouldn't need to worry too much about them unless they have some sort of really good gunner."

After this, Adélaïde speaks. "Liliane is correct with what she says. Though there are a few tricks that allow you to push the Vérany to it's limits and even out preform a Falke D two, but those are hard to pull off and I don't blame her for not knowing." She'd glance to Liliane and add "I'll teach you later once you get out of this place and are fit to fly again." before returning her attention to you. "I will give greater context as to it's second variation however. It's a bit better in terms of performance as Liliane said, and I think that this is mainly due to the wing structure being more aerodynamic, perhaps a few modifications to it's engines or cooling. But regardless, despite some fearmongering of a second scourge, generally speaking the lowest estimates made on the aircrafts performance are likely the most accurate. The only reason pilots are exaggerating their claims is because generally speaking they put their good pilots in them. And I'm sure you are aware that the Prußenmarkians have a surprisingly robust training system for their pilots. Something that I feel is only going to expand in the future once we start to catch up and as new techniques are learned, if they haven't already done so already. It's also important to keep this in perspective. The new aircraft aren't in major numbers just yet and honestly I fully expect we will be at parity with them aviation wise soon enough provided our own manufacturers keep at it. Unless some major breakthrough equal in effect to the synchronization gear they had occurs for them again and soon, we shouldn't be on the backfoot at all aircraft wise for a while." A part of you wonders if you should maybe tell her the bad news, given what Conley had told you...

>Ask the two about their relationship with each other.
>Ask the two about their thoughts on the murders.
>Tell both the bad news about a certain Lothring project you happen to know about.
>Ask Liliane about herself.
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots
>Ask Adélaïde about how things have been going.
>Drag Adélaïde aside and ask about her alias and where she really is from.
>Ask something else (write in)

(If I get votes fast enough I'll ideally be able to make another post. Glad to see that people enjoy the game enough to miss it. I still apologize for the delay in getting this thread out.)

>>5586074
>Ask something else (write in)
Don't tell them directly about the news from Conley, but ask them about their opinion of Lothring aircraft versus Preussen, and their rate of technological development.

If the tech talk reaches a dead end, then
>Ask the two about their relationship with each other.
>Ask Liliane about herself.

>>5586074
>Ask the two about their relationship with each other.
>Ask Liliane about herself.
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots

>>5586319
Support

"You've not talked too much about Lothring or the CN Three. What's your thoughts on them and their aircraft compared to that of Prußenmark?" You ask with a bit of curiosity, especially given neither mentioned them.

"They haven't exactly made anything new for some time, and their pilots aren't that skilled. In fact, they are just about as good as our own were on average at the start of the war, and that's yet to change. The only time there is an exception to this is when one of their aces are there, and there are only what? Six aces they've ever had? I believe that up and coming pilot Leviathan killed one not to long ago before she even made ace, and the other wasn't even a pilot but a turret gunner. But I digress. Their aircraft aren't much talking about either at this point. The CN Three is outdated, all it has going for it is it's agility and speed. The gap in those two aspects that existed when Lothring first entered the war at few months after start of the year was significant. But it has almost completely closed at this point. It also doesn't help that the small stubby aircraft is so short ranged we only ever encounter it when flying over their territory on offense. There were times when it was quite the threat though, usually paired with Prußenmark pilots who would force a dogfight while the CN chased after the aircraft being escorted, or whoever tried retreating from combat." Adélaïde says with a bit of dismissal and disinterest.

"In the old Dupont it was actually quite hard to get your sights on those small speedy things. But once you got used to how they flew, you often times could either avoid any serious damage until they returned home or were driven off. The nickname the Lothrings have for it, Kolibrie or Hummingbird I believe, is fairly apt. It's quite nimble and swift. At least at the time anyway. If the Prußenmarkians flew the thing I think we'd have a lot more enemy aces to deal with given how any skilled pilot could easily return home and live another day, and it really is good as an interceptor. I also think the Guardian Angel would have her work cut out for her to live up to her name. But, as Adélaïde said, their pilots kind of aren't that good. They make basic mistakes that you'd expect to see from our own at the start. The most common mistake I've seen though is tunnel vision. But the few good pilots they have can really annoy and distract you. Honestly, even now it probably wouldn't be that bad of an aircraft despite the short comings of it's range, if only the pilots flying it knew how to utilize it better. Then again, there's a reason the few Lothring aces up there were able to rack up victories so quickly, and how none of them who actually have shown significant skill have been shot down yet. Why do you ask?" Liliane says with clear thoughtfulness in her words, though also a good deal of curiosity with her last remark.

"I see, and your thoughts on their rate of technological development? Because that is what I mainly was thinking of." You add, not admitting the fact you know that they have finished work on something big that likely will come to cause major problems in the coming year.

Adélaïde immediately raises an eyebrow at this, though remains silent as she stares at you with a scrutinizing gaze. Liliane meanwhile says "Huh, I mean, I guess they haven't made anything new in a while. I guess that's what you are a bit worried about maybe? I mean, I doubt it'll be that much of a threat if they do come out with something new, mainly due to pilot skill. And even then, they'll probably just come out with something equal to our own or only a little bit better that's evened out by their lack of updated training. So, I wouldn't worry too much about it!" Liliane is clearly still her hopeful self, but Adélaïde seems almost suspicious.

"I guess you might be right...On a different subject, what exactly is your relationship with each other? You seem quite close." You ask, trying to shift the subject away.

Adélaïde is the one who takes initiative here however, and says "I am sure you are aware of her nickname, yes? She is in a sense my apprentice. I've spent a fair share of my spare time teaching her tricks and tips to be able to better deal with any enemy in the sky and how to best take advantage of her own aircraft. She's a very close friend otherwise, one whom I have vowed to protect." She seems almost a bit somber in her last statement for some reason.

Liliane soon after says "Adélaïde is a great teacher and an even greater friend! Despite being a bit harsh at a first glance she's really quite kind and caring once you get to know her! It's a bit sad some won't really see that side of her because they just dismiss her due to some of her criticism or because she's proud of what she's accomplished."

With this, Adélaïde swiftly adds "While I know Liliane is well aware, the criticism I'm referring to is with regards to some of my fellow pilots idea's on how to fly, and occasionally in some instances their character."

Giving a nod at this, you decide you may as well ask about Liliane a bit more and say "What was your life before joining the Air Corps like, Liliane? Can you tell me a bit about yourself?"

"Well, I was born to a wonderful and loving family that is fairly well to do and had a good childhood. I got interested in medicine and worked to get into the profession. And after a while in education I became a nurse for the army about two years before the war started. At the time there was a shortage, and I thought I might get to see Asu if I was shipped over there. Though, I got assigned to a hospital much like this one meant to take care of pilots who had accidents and the like. And, well...I grew captivated with flying and after a while applied for a transfer. Despite my talents being needed, I managed to be among one of the top applicants and got put in the newly formed Escadre and almost immediately after the war started. My parents were a bit reluctant with my choice to join the Air Corps rather than stay as a nurse but they are proud of me and I can understand their reasoning. After all, they care about me and would be worried sick if anything happened to me! Like my current situation. In the letter I wrote to them I was sure to explain that despite being shot in the chest the wound didn't actually hit anything vital. Honestly, the fact I was actually shot in the chest without major injury to a major artery or organ is extremely lucky when you think about it. Though my manubrium wasn't as lucky."

>Ask the two about their thoughts on the murders.
>Tell both the bad news about a certain Lothring project you happen to know about.
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots.
>Ask Liliane about her time as a nurse.
>Ask Adélaïde about how things have been going.
>Ask Adélaïde why she seemed to give you that strange look when you mentioned Lothring technological development.
>Drag Adélaïde aside and ask about her alias and where she really is from.
>Ask something else (write in)

>>5589781
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots.
>Ask Liliane about her time as a nurse.
>Ask Adélaïde about how things have been going.
>Ask Adélaïde why she seemed to give you that strange look when you mentioned Lothring technological development.

>>5589781
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots.
>Ask Liliane about her time as a nurse.
Wait until we corner Adelaide 1:1 before asking about her reaction to Lothring.

Alright so, I'm gonna give you another 12ish hours or so and then make a post since we have a bit of conflict as to what should be done.

>>5590480
Support

"I'm happy to hear that you've had a good childhood, and I think many more people than just myself are thankful for your decision to join the Air Corps. However, I have to ask, what are your thoughts on your fellow pilots?" You expect her to talk mostly about Adélaïde or just her own escadron's, yet you would be surprised with her response.

"Do you mean the ones in my escadron, the full escadre or the whole Air Corps?" She asks this extremely quickly. Clearly someone wanted clarification.

"I was expecting the ones in your escadron. Do you actually know any others outside it?" You ask a bit curios as to what her story regarding this is.

"Yep! I've had the chance to meet the Botrel sisters a while back, along with Amélie, Catherine, Calantha and a few other prominent aces. I try and get their advice and learn some of their experiences and compare them to my own to try and improve my own abilities and see what works in their experience along with what doesn't. And from there I can learn what potentially is just as good of a solution that might be better in the long run or is just a better move in combat. I also like sharing my own advice too if they let me."

You give a nod before saying "Lets talk about those in your escadron first."

"Well, I think I've already said a lot about Adélaïde, so I think it's safe not to retread the same ground there. Firstly, Lucie Maret is fairly friendly and relaxed. They are a bit of a loose commander but they seem to have very good intuition. They always seem to know when to pull out of the way at the last moment to throw off an enemies aim and whenever they personally plan and lead a flight things seem to just go well. She's a good commander I'd say. And I'm glad that she's still around. Secondly, Ermengardis Duverger, the second best ace in the escadron, is honestly a really nice person too! She's a bit more anxious and shy I'd say, but I think that's partially because of what some of the press and some pilots and soldiers from other escadrons think of her. I don't get how or why anyone would dislike her! Well, I know why, but I think it's ridiculous that just because she's got relatives in Prußenmark and is herself partially Prußenmarkian technically speaking that she's magically a traitor. Sure, she's not that fond of the war because of that fact, but she's served this country faithfully! It's honestly disheartening to read about her exploits at times as half the papers subtly downplay her efforts and a few fringe ones still go so far to be overt in their attacks on her. It's died down a lot compared to before but I still can't help but feel bad for her. She seems to be in much better spirits right now though compared to before..." She goes silent briefly, clearly a bit upset about this before continuing.

"Moving on, Eva Courbet. The new up and coming ace! She's honestly amusing to me given how she has the mannerisms of what you'd expect is a typical Pretan officer or noblewoman. She's practically addicted to tea for one and extremely polite and proper. Yet despite this is fond of sarcasm and dark humor alongside whisky and gin. That sort of thing. Amusingly, whenever it's brought up she refuses that she is in fact like the Pretans in the slightest and states she would never be akin to Gallonia's mortal enemy that we surely will war with once more in the future. Though, it's always in jest and never really serious. I'm fairly sure she's well aware of the fact she's akin to what one portrays the Pretan's as, and just has fun with it. She also is very open to listening to people's problems, and seems to want to be a caring yet firm officer who leads by example. Athelina Chausson meanwhile is fairly outgoing and likes to talk, a lot. They also are something of a storyteller and seem to be quite creative and prone to flights of fancy when not occupied by anything else. I think if she becomes an ace she'll be a decent one, and I hope she'll do well if that's the case. Another pilot who's done well is Roysia Jauffret, but she's sort of brooding and keeps to herself. She also always seems quite annoyed for some reason. Unlike Athelina she rarely ever talks at all...The other pilots on the Escadron I'd say are too new to have much but Katerina Bachelot seems to be quite eager to prove herself and seems stubborn..."

Giving a nod, you say "I see. I think I'll ask about the other pilots you've met before later. But for now, there is one thing I've been wondering about. What was your time as a nurse like? How was it to you? Is it something you are fond of or do you miss it at all?"

"Oh it was quite nice and relaxing really. I did my best to be as punctual and calm as possible. I think if I was still a nurse I'd have a much harder time and also probably would have changed my stance on that and said it was hectic and exhausting, mainly because when I was utilizing those skills the war hadn't started and as such the number of injured I had to deal with were far and few between. So it was mostly quiet and tending to minor injuries or illnesses. Often time just food poisoning and a few cuts, bruises and concussions, but occasionally a few accidents forced some soldiers to get discharged after treatment, or reassigned to more bureaucratic positions. I honestly wasn't really prepared for some of the injuries I saw though. I even almost fainted once with one accident involving a terrible crash during someone's flight training, but I got used to it quickly enough. It really was quite slow, especially given how small the air corps was back then. I don't really miss those days as I really have gained a passion for flying, but I do think once this lousy war is over I'll probably have a tough decision on whether I go back into medicine or keep flying. I think I'll probably try and do both though if possible. Though I honestly really don't want to chose one! On the bright side, being wounded has let me see a few old friends. Speaking of, Emelina just yesterday even jokingly mentioned how I was the only person she knew who is capable enough to personally save the lives of pilots, whilst actually desiring to go up there to personally fight them as well!" She seems quite jovial still. Perhaps she's the type to have a bottomless supply of optimism, or maybe she's just happy to be able to be with her friends.

>Ask the two about their thoughts on the murders.
>Tell both the bad news about a certain Lothring project you happen to know about.
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots in the air corps.
>Ask Adélaïde about how things have been going.
>Ask Adélaïde why she seemed to give you that strange look when you mentioned Lothring technological development.
>Drag Adélaïde aside and ask about her alias and where she really is from.
>Ask something else (write in)

>>5594088
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots in the air corps.
>Ask the two about their thoughts on the murders.

>>5594088
>>Ask the two about their thoughts on the murders.
>>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots in the air corps.
>>Ask Adélaïde about how things have been going.

>>5594088
>Ask the two about their thoughts on the murders.
>Ask Liliane about her view on the other pilots in the air corps.
>Ask Adélaïde about how things have been going.

"Huh. Alright. Going back to my earlier question, what about the other pilots you know? Since you mentioned you had met and spoken with some of the others of the escadre and the air corps as a whole." You are a bit curios what her perspective is on some of the pilots she mentioned.

"Well, I already told you which ones I met, well, who are still alive anyway. I actually had the pleasure of meeting Richart Gaumont before he fell in the line of duty. I think he was a daring, brave and selfless man and it's a shame he was downed. I also spoke to Gabriel before he perished as well. He was fairly confident in his abilities but a harsh critic of the Dupont...As for the living ones, the first two I think it's best to speak about are the Botrel sisters! One is fairly reckless and likes up close and personal fighting, constantly taking risks and the like, while the other is more methodical and careful. Somewhat ironically, despite the less risky behavior, Wimarca, the more cautious of the two, has been more successful. Then again, Amabilis usually has a lot of enemies after her and on her tail with her maneuvers, so it makes sense. The two work great together as a team though! But it makes sense. Siblings tend to be in sync right? Amélie meanwhile is...actually kind of sad. I'm sure you've met her before given she's really Adélaïde's only rival for top ace in Gallonia, but I get the feeling her fairly upbeat nature is kind of an act to get people to not worry about her. I'm not a psychologist, but I think she might be suffering from some form of melancholia. I think this mainly because bringing up things that are upsetting to her immediately makes her shift to more sorrowful mannerisms for a few moments, only for her to just force herself back to the more chipper disposition she is known for. I could be entirely wrong though, as I said, I'm not a psychologist. I suppose given she is an artist though it makes more sense as to why she would be suffering from such. I do hope that she finds someone to open up to about such problems, as I think having a shoulder to cry on would be helpful. However given her reputation I doubt she'll feel comfortable doing such." She gives a slight pause, collecting herself a bit before continuing.

"As for Catherine, she's quite brash and a more than a bit rough around the edges but I think she's kind of fun! Though, maybe I just managed to get on her good side. Still, she's certainly got a good feel for her aircraft, though given how many times she's stated she'd gotten separated I believe that she might be a bit bad at focusing on where her allies are. Though I doubt I'm saying anything new there as I know she's a bit infamous for that. Calantha meanwhile is fairly prideful, and has a bit of a weird accent, but she seems well traveled and I think she'd maybe get along with Ermengardis if the two haven't met already! I think her broad skills and interests are likely to keep her busy in her spare time though. From what I can tell and have heard in the air she's got a fairly balanced approach, but slightly more aggressive than defensive."

"Interesting. I presume you've asked them a fair few things for advice and perhaps maneuvers they know." You say, swiftly getting a nod from Liliane. After you ask "Now, this is probably not something you were expecting but, what exactly are your thoughts on the string of murders that have shocked the nation? Do you know anything about them at all?"

Liliane swiftly says "I do know a few things. But just what's in the papers really. Nothing much more. It's really disturbing however that someone would do such horrible things. I hope that their future targets are shown mercy, and whoever's responsible get's help. As it's very clear that they likely need to be in a mental institution for both their safety and the publics."

Adélaïde meanwhile states "Honestly, while I do feel bad for the families of those affected by the string of killings that makes Pretan's little problem over twenty years ago look like a grim joke, I find it interesting that the victims are the same as the capeldu murders with the added twist of those who went with them getting slain as well. Initially I'd say it was a copy cat killer in a way, but the letter left behind at the first of their major horror shows they left for the police and public leads me to believe that it's revenge. If it was just to kill people discreetly they wouldn't go after the men in charge of the prostitutes. Further, given the way the letter was written I believe it's a woman who's doing such. Perhaps a wife who's husband cheated on them and snapped? I honestly can't say. Though at the very least their actions of late could be considered vigilantism at this point given their latest victims. I'd hardly call it a silver lining, however. It's interesting however that you are curios about these murders."

After this, you decide to shift the question a bit and ask "Given you are here, Adélaïde. How have things been since we last talked?"

"Oh, things have been quite well barring this tragic little event. But Liliane seems to be in high spirits and just fine. And I have been told she will recover. So I suppose it isn't too bad. Business has been going well too, even if it has been delegated to another. Though given the times it would be more of a surprise if business was not booming. Otherwise nothing too significant has really happened other than me culling a few of our enemies aces, which I am sure you are no doubt aware of already...There were a few things however that have me concerned but I'd rather not share it with you at this time. Private affairs and all. I'm sure you can understand." Adélaïde sounds quite calm as she says this though it's surprising how little detail she gives.

>Tell both the bad news about a certain Lothring project you happen to know about.
>Ask Adélaïde why she seemed to give you that strange look when you mentioned Lothring technological development.
>Drag Adélaïde aside and ask about her alias and where she really is from.
>Visit Ermengardis. She should be somewhere in this makeshift hospital, right?
>Ask something else (write in)

>>5596381
>Drag Adélaïde aside and ask about her alias and where she really is from.
And then
>Ask Adélaïde why she seemed to give you that strange look when you mentioned Lothring technological development.

>>5596379
>Drag Adélaïde aside and ask about her alias and where she really is from.
>Ask Adélaïde why she seemed to give you that strange look when you mentioned Lothring technological development.

>>5596638
+1

Rolled 14, 92 = 106 (2d100)

Whistling.

"I'm glad to hear that. I hope you don't mind, Adélaïde, but I'd like you to come with me for a moment. It won't be long, I promise. And after you can go back to Liliane." You say with a friendly and relaxed tone. Yet Adélaïde seems to scrutinize you extensively as she stands, clearly suspicious.

"Alright then...Liliane, go call one of your old friends over while I'm away. I'm sure you'll still want some company while I'm away." She says this sternly, though Liliane seems worried as Adélaïde moves to follow you. After walking out of the wing and into a small side room unoccupied by anyone else, Adélaïde immediately says "What do you want?" her tone still stern and terse as she observes your every movement intensely with a almost piercing gaze. It's unlike her confident and calm self earlier, yet you get the feeling she knows just as well as you do what you are about to ask.

"I have it on good authority that you aren't actually named Adélaïde, and such is merely an alias. What is your real name and where are you really from?" You state bluntly, fully expecting that this will be...difficult to say the least.

"I personally am more curios as to who pray tell this authority is and why you trust them and the information they have provided over my own word?" She states swiftly, still watching your every movement.

"I cannot tell you who, I'm sure you can understand. But given how defensive and seemingly paranoid you appear it doesn't exactly look good if you don't have something to hide. Why would you be worried if the claim you dismiss had no merit?" You think it gets the point across, and you aren't exactly going to immediately tell her it was from Botrel. That surely wouldn't end well after all.

"I think it's reasonable to be concerned when your superior officer is deliberately hiding information from you and knows something that is likely of vital importance yet seeks to hide their intentions through half truths. I know you weren't just asking about Lothring aircraft because you just were curios. You know something I do not. And given my status I think it's fair to be concerned when your superior knows something they are unwilling to share about the enemy, or your mysterious source of this information." Well. That answers one of the questions you planned, but there's certainly more to this than just that, surely. She'd not be so defensive otherwise, right?

"That still doesn't explain your mannerisms and if anything is just dodging the question. Surely, you would just have some concerns about what you believe and would express them to me far more calmly than you seem to be acting right now. So why are you so concerned?" You state, hoping that she'll give at least some of the real reason why she was seemingly so anxious and arguably paranoid.

"Simple. If you were actually informed by a proper Gallonian source you would not be confronting me about this and would be fully informed as to my situation. The fact you are asking questions and prying when this matter has already been settled by a proper investigation tells me you were most likely informed by a foreign source, and given your reluctance to inform one of the most trusted ace pilots in the air corps of something you clearly know about regarding our enemy I have reason to believe that this is more than just a leak in intelligence. In simple terms, have good reason to believe that you are merely seeking for confirmation of your client's suspicions before you try and finish what they started. So, with all due respect miss Valmont. You have more explaining to do than myself." She seems almost a bit angry, something you are arguably a bit taken aback by.

"What are you even on about? Do you honestly believe I am some sort of spy for our enemies? And what do you mean client? I've not worked with any enemy of Galloni-" You manage to get out before you are cut off by Adélaïde

"And there in lies the problem. You might not be working with someone who is an enemy of Gallonia, but you are working with someone. And I have reason to believe they are someone who is an enemy of myself. Especially given how tight lipped you are about all of this." You honestly are now more confused than anything else.

"Wait, I thought you and Conley were friends...What are you even on about with working with an enemy of yours?" This seems to get a look of mild surprise from Adélaïde.

"You mean to say other than Conley you have no direct contacts outside of Gallonia?" She asks far more calmly.

"No, I don't. Now, can you explain yourself now and be more respectful to your commanding officer?" You say clearly a bit frustrated.

"Odd, very odd...I was not expecting what you just said to be genuine and yet...It seems that I have misjudged the situation. That is on me, and I deeply apologize for that. However I am sure you will be understanding when I say this is a matter of my own personal safety." This only leaves you more confused and gives you more questions...What the hell is going on here?

>Ask Adélaïde who she really is and where she is from, again.
>Ask Adélaïde why this is a matter of her safety.
>Ask Adélaïde why she seemingly switched her tune so quickly.
>Ask Adélaïde why you should already know everything regarding her situation if you were informed.
>Ask Adélaïde why she even has an alias in the first place.
>Ask Adélaïde something else (write in)

(Pick one)
>Appeal to authority and demand your answers.
>Appeal to understanding and ask calmly.
>Appeal to your frustration and just ask for clear answers and no more cryptic bullshit.

>>5598290
>Ask Adélaïde who she really is and where she is from, again.
>Ask Adélaïde why this is a matter of her safety.
>Ask Adélaïde why you should already know everything regarding her situation if you were informed.

>Appeal to understanding and ask calmly.

>>5598290
>Ask Adélaïde why you should already know everything regarding her situation if you were informed.
>Appeal to understanding and ask calmly.

>>5598290
>Ask Adélaïde who she really is and where she is from, again.
>Ask Adélaïde why you should already know everything regarding her situation if you were informed
>Appeal to understanding and ask calmly.

"Alright, so can you please explain to me now what you are on about? Because I really am in the dark here. Who are you actually and are you Gallonian or from somewhere else?" You ask as calmly as possible after giving a sigh, trying to suppress any frustration.

"Firstly, my actual name is Adelinde von Lindenburg. And no, I am not from Prußenmark despite what you might initially believe given my last name though I'm sure you can see why I use an alias. I am actually from Agdemark. I would appreciate if this doesn't become common knowledge, along with the rest of intelligence services. After all, I don't think many Gallonians would be too pleased to find out their best ace happens to have a last name matching that of their enemies, even with the context that I am from Agdemark." Adélaïde, or rather, Adelinde says with any sort of malice, paranoia or concern that was in her voice earlier completely gone.

"Okay, why exactly should I know everything if I was informed by Gallonian intelligence proper? Why would they fully tell me everything?" It is a good question that leads to many others if it was unanswered.

"Simple. You would already know who I actually am, the risks both to national pride and my personal safety of this getting out, and the fact that this has been settled. As such, if you were actually informed by someone tied to Gallonian intelligence, you would have the full picture and not need to speak with me about all of this, along with knowing that asking about this could lead to others overhearing and a major PR disaster if not a potential assassination attempt on my life. It is clear that you must have only received bits and pieces. Either from overhearing loose lips or having gotten an intelligence leak. However at the time I was concerned you received word from someone who wanted me dead, and perhaps connected enough dots to think that Adélaïde was actually Adelinde. And yes, I recognize choosing a similar name as an alias might be considered a risk that would give some things away but when you dye your hair and have a fair few years of aging to disguise your appearance it becomes inconsequential once you hide the paper trail." The way she speaks sounds as if she's already gone through this before multiple times. Then again if she spoke with intelligence that would be a given...

"Who even wants you dead and why? Why exactly is people knowing a risk to your safety?" You honestly wonder who even would want to kill her and for what reason.

"Two things, simply put. Risk and revenge. I belonged to a wealthy family in Agdemark. When I said my family suffered a terrible accident that was the official story. In reality, they were murdered with blunt weapons on the outer grounds of their estate, and after made to appear as if they died in a tragic midnight automobile accident in the night. I had the fortune to witness the initial part of the plot unfold. Given the events that transpired after, alongside my uncles outstanding envy, I have reason to believe it was my oh so wonderful relatives responsible for hiring people to remove my parents from the picture. Unfortunately for them, their will stated their property and estate would go to me, even despite my age at the time. And as such, they sought to remove me. In the process before I could make preparations, the bastards they hired the first time returned and killed my best friend at the time, and while distracted I utilized a old shotgun to...incapacitate them. After, with the help of one of the servants I took a substantial amount of wealth and quickly arranged a backroom dealing in the capital in exchange for liquid capital that sold off the estate and a few smaller operations of the business before fleeing the country. From which I made my life here and once I finished proper education I invested my money in buying a struggling arms business who's owner had recently perished from some tropical disease." She seems to have a hint of anger in her voice mentioning her relatives, but otherwise seems as if she's just going through the motions. You also can't help but feel as if she's hiding something when she mentioned how she incapacitated the assailants.

>Ask Adelinde why she seemingly switched her tune so quickly.
>Ask Adelinde if she's serious. This feels a bit too contrived and convoluted to be real.
>Ask Adelinde what happened to her old family business.
>Ask Adelinde why she isn't in a volunteer escadron.
>Ask Adelinde why she joined the Air Corps if she wasn't Gallonian.
>Ask Adelinde to elaborate on what happened with the whole assassin nonsense.
>Ask Adelinde something else (Write in)

>>5599712
>Ask Adelinde if she's serious. This feels a bit too contrived and convoluted to be real.
>Ask Adelinde why she joined the Air Corps if she wasn't Gallonian.
>Ask Adelinde to elaborate on what happened with the whole assassin nonsense.

>>5599712
>Ask Adelinde if she's serious. This feels a bit too contrived and convoluted to be real.
>Ask Adelinde something else (Write in)
Ask if her past is some how connected to the recent serial murders. Is someone paint her, and by extension the Escadre, as the culprit?

>>5599712
>Ask Adelinde if she's serious. This feels a bit too contrived and convoluted to be real.
>Ask Adelinde to elaborate on what happened with the whole assassin nonsense.
>Ask Adelinde something else (Write in)
Ask if her past is some how connected to the recent serial murders. Is someone paint her, and by extension the Escadre, as the culprit?

"Are you serious? This sounds like something out of a work of fiction than something that's actually real." You say in a bit of disbelief. This is met with a sigh from Adelinde.

"I understand why you could see that but unfortunately medieval style politics are alive and well. Though I suppose the difference is it's far easier to cover things up these days, just as it is far easier to catch them. I wish it was merely some nonsense story as then that would mean I'd not have lost my parents or best friend, but here we are. I'll admit I perhaps am a bit paranoid and there is a chance my 'relatives' aren't actually hunting me despite me screwing them out of a few million kroner. But even removing spite or revenge, I am a threat to them due to potentially seeking revenge myself. Regardless I would rather be cautious in this matter rather than foolhardy and reckless." She seems a bit frustrated, if anything.

"Alright, can you elaborate then on what exactly happened?" You ask honestly more confused about this than anything else. It's hard to tell if she's lying or not.

"The date of my parents death is the eleventh of September, Sixteen Ninety Eight. It wasn't international news, but it made some national and local headlines. As stated, the official story is they died in a late night automobile accident. If you'd like, you are more than welcome to dig up old newspapers from the time and from Agdemark if you wish. Though I doubt you know how to read Agdemish, you'll likely notice my name, Adelinde von Lindenburg, mentioned given I was the heiress at the time. Before their passing my parents were the owners of K.L.V and K.L.B. The company is currently owned by Peder van Lindenburg. My uncle. Now, with this context in mind, the reason I was able to see the murders was because I was up late and had planned to sneak out to a small portion of the gardens that had a modest hill and a beautiful view of the stars. At the time I was interested in astronomy, you see. While sneaking out however, I heard voices, including that of my father. I hid so as to not get caught and get into trouble and...Shortly after hearing some other noises I carefully moved closer and was able to see my father, dead on the floor. I have no clue how much time past, but eventually they took the car my parents owned. I didn't technically see my mother's death, and I believe she was likely killed first, but she was recovered in the 'crash' that was made as the cover story...The same people came back a bit over a month later in late October, specifically twenty sixth. They came much earlier in the night, and while Lyra was still over...We heard them break in and a scuffle with one of the servants, and so we shut the lights off and hid...They found her and in the dark must have presumed she was myself." She goes silent for a bit after this and seems actually fairly distraught, pausing for a bit before continuing.

"I ended up making a break for it, and one of the servants, Alf, helped me get away and to a secure room. He also is the one who managed to get me the shotgun and helped me escape. The break in only made minor news until my disappearance was reported, and I was some time after presumed dead. The worst part, in my opinion, is the fact that no one but myself and Alf even knew Lyra died...Then again, why would they?" She looks down, a mix of anger and sorrow inside her, but much more of the latter than the former.

"Do...you think the recent murders are potentially made to try and paint you as the culprit?" Despite the question, Adelinde doesn't respond for a good while, either due to thinking about the question, calming herself down about the...event. Or simply a mix of both. Eventually though, she does speak.

"I don't know. If it was, it's more so to create a distraction or diversion for the public to focus on. Recently, those murders have targeted fairly wealthy and noteworthy individuals tied to prostitution, so they could potentially be trying to shift things to give a cover story for my own murder if they come after me. Then there's a convenient enough excuse for my murder and no one will look into it deeper than the culprit responsible for the murders. If they are trying to frame me, they have done a dismal job. I'm already aware of the fact that my escadron was suspected briefly, but unless I was lied to, that is no longer the case...I don't know if the murders are caused by them, but thinking about it they might be. And even if not, they could always kill me and make the one they pay attempt a copy cat murder. Though, that relies on them knowing of my actual identity, and of course them actually taking the risk of being wrong. Unless they have managed to bribe or find a leak in our intelligence. Then again, given how you were able to find such a thing out, it is very much possible they have unfortunately." She still seems somber, but she also seems almost a bit more worried as she clearly thinks about this more.

>Ask Adelinde why she seemingly switched her tune so quickly.
>Ask Adelinde what happened to her old family business.
>Ask Adelinde why she isn't in a volunteer escadron.
>Ask Adelinde why she joined the Air Corps if she wasn't Gallonian.
>Ask Adelinde who Lyra is, exactly and what happened to Alf.
>Ask Adelinde something else (Write in)

>>5602031
>>Ask Adelinde what happened to her old family business.
>>Ask Adelinde why she joined the Air Corps if she wasn't Gallonian.
>>Ask Adelinde who Lyra is, exactly and what happened to Alf.

>>5602031
>Ask Adelinde who Lyra is, exactly and what happened to Alf.
>Ask Adelinde something else (Write in)
Ask if she is comfortable with PR Tours given the circumstances. Granted, she has usually been doing TRACOM rounds.
Also if she would like to command a volunteer escadron, if the opportunity arises.

>>5602895
Support

"What exactly happened to Alf? And who is Lyra? I presume she's that best friend you mentioned earlier." You ask, honestly a little intrigued by it.

With a sigh, Adelinde remains silent for a bit before answering. "Lyra is honestly one of the best people I ever knew. She was kind, insightful, smart and patient. She was a Pretan as well. She ran away from home, and as such I had to pull a few strings to ensure she didn't just become some homeless poor girl. Though I never was able to find out how she managed to end up in Agdemark. Though I presume she ran off while her parents were visiting the country. From what I could tell though, her parents were quite wealthy similar to my own, though they were far more distant and uncaring. Despite that she never let that get to her...I just wish I was able to do something to save her. But, the past can't be changed, can it?" She goes silent after this for a bit, seemingly collecting herself once more before continuing. "I think you can at the very least understand partially why I am a bit protective of Liliane...She really reminds me of Lyra too, although she looks up to me far far more. As for Alf, I don't know. When I was headed to Gallonia he stayed behind to cover up any paper trail that'd lead to me. For all I know he's living with a decent amount of money comfortably. Alternatively, he's dead. I suppose I'll have to find out what happened to him in the future if I can. Though I doubt it would be easy."

"Given your situation, how comfortable are you with PR tours? I know you have mainly been assigned to Training command when you aren't on the front or in reserve, but I want to ensure you aren't getting thrown into what you perceive as danger. On a similar note, would you like to command a volunteer escadron in the future, if the opportunity arises?" You ask, a bit unsure as to how she'd take it, though her flat and unamused expression seems to give you other idea's.

"Firstly, no. I'd rather not command a volunteer escadron in the future. While I am concerned that I might be hunted, with my hair dyed and my appearance noticeably different from what I looked like as a kid, they at least have to put in some effort to uncover my identity. The reason I was so worried about you knowing is because I thought it meant they perhaps had figured it out. Though a leak of such sensitive information is almost as bad if they have anyone looking. Being transferred to a volunteer escadron to command it would not only mean I would be pulled away from Liliane and be unable to protect her, but also potentially bring far too much attention to my origins even if I wasn't forced to reveal my identity in full to everyone. As for PR tours, I am fine with them provided I have sufficient security or they are done in secure places such as a tour visiting military instillations. Though given the leak, I would appreciate a few months away from such things. Just long enough to ensure that no one other than you learned of it. Speaking of, I do hope you will inform me and intelligence where you got the information from. And I'm sure you can understand why I feel such is important now you have full context of my situation. If you are wondering by the way, other than yourself and a number in intelligence, only Liliane and Ermengardis know my true identity. And I know both well enough to be sure that neither is responsible for you finding out. At least, not deliberately anyway."

Well, this could be bad if she's as skilled as she said she was at picking up lies. At least, if you wanted to potentially save Botrel's sorry skin. Then again, he likely shouldn't have known in the first place

(Pick one)
>Tell Adelinde the truth.
>Try to lie to Adelinde.
>Refuse to disclose the information.
>Tell her something else (Write in)

(Pick as many as you want)
>Ask Adelinde why she seemingly switched her tune so quickly.
>Ask Adelinde what happened to her old family business.
>Ask Adelinde why she isn't in a volunteer escadron.
>Ask Adelinde why she joined the Air Corps if she wasn't Gallonian.
>Ask Adelinde something else (Write in)
>End the conversation and go visit Ermengardis.

>>5605833
>Refuse to disclose the information

>Ask Adelinde what happened to her old family business.
>Ask Adelinde why she joined the Air Corps if she wasn't Gallonian

>>5605833
>Tell Adelinde the truth.

>Ask Adelinde why she seemingly switched her tune so quickly.
>Ask Adelinde what happened to her old family business.
>Ask Adelinde why she joined the Air Corps if she wasn't Gallonian.

>>5605833
>Tell her something else (Write in)
Say our S-2 staff uncovered it during our investigation of the murders. It is the truth, just without the names.

>Ask Adelinde what happened to her old family business.

Need a tiebreak for how to answer the first question.

>>5608680
Will change to this
>>Tell her something else (Write in)
>Say our S-2 staff uncovered it during our investigation of the murders. It is the truth, just without the names.

"My S-Two staff were the ones who uncovered it during the investigation of the murders. Though, they didn't find much other than your current name was an alias." You simply say, hoping that she buys it. However, while she stares at you intently, she doesn't directly say anything regarding what you state.

"Intelligence will need to ensure that doesn't happen next time, given it is clear a few of them had loose lips or worked too closely with your own staff without insuring the need for secrecy here. That, or someone disregarded it. Regardless, someone is likely looking at some disciplinary action. I hope something like this doesn't happen again." It's actually a bit hard to tell how she feels at the moment, though you get the feeling that perhaps is deliberate.

"I do actually have a important question given all of this. Why did you joint he Air Corps given all of this? You aren't Gallonian, and you'd want to keep your head down, wouldn't you?" You honestly are a bit of a loss as to why she'd want to potentially put herself into danger like this, but you'll have your answer.

"Three reasons. Firstly, I've lived here for over ten years and have substantial businesses that would be negatively effected by a loss in this conflict. Secondly, I already am of some prominence given my business. While becoming an ace pilot certainly brings far more attention than simply remaining a businesswoman in the background, I gain significant security in exchange and ensure any sort of assassination attempt on my life will make national headlines and not be ignored. And thirdly...I've now spoken and worked with people tied to Gallonian intelligence. People who can help prove my suspicions and deal with those problems should they get confirmed true so. Not only ensuring my safety from such attempts in the future permanently but also getting revenge on the people who are just as responsible for Lyra and my parents deaths as the people they paid to kill them. While I don't expect them to fully dedicate themselves to the investigation, given my relationship with a few of them and my importance to national morale, I do fully expect some results. I personally see it as quite practical. Of course, I still have the threat of Prußenmarkian and Lothring aircraft and pilots attempting to kill me, but I don't really see them as a danger, except maybe their absolute best pilots. After all, I've been fighting at a disadvantage this entire time and still have come out on top time and time again. My height and by extension weight normally would disqualify me from becoming a pilot after all. But I think you are already a bit aware that didn't stop me from joining." She seems to have returned to the sort of confidence and somewhat prideful nature you are used to, though you cant help but feel a lingering hint of sorrow at moments.

"Interesting...And what exactly happened to your old family business then? You mentioned you cost it a few millions before your escape." It was more a question out of slight curiosity than anything too important, though if there were any doubts about her story it perhaps would allow some sort of mistake to slip in.

"It's still around and doing about as well as before. At least, K.L.V is. Despite selling off a few patents and designs directly, along with transferring a few minor facilities. It took a hit at the time, but it has managed to recover since despite being in some trouble for some time. Really, what I did was a blow, and certainly a major one, but nothing that would actually bankrupt them without other factors causing things to go particularly bad for them, or a number of bad business decisions being undertaken. And for worse or better, neither happened to K.L.V. K.L.B however was far more effected and struggled significantly and still hasn't recovered. Though it is still around in what is now a somewhat competitive market. My transfer of various company assets hurt K.L.B far more than K.L.V. It doesn't help the automobile company was a fairly new one compared to the long history in arms that K.L.V has. Perhaps in the future, should certain obstacles be dealt with, I can rebuy the company." She seems to slightly smile at the thought, although she soon after closes her eyes and sighs.

>Ask Adelinde why she seemingly switched her tune so quickly.
>Ask Adelinde why she isn't in a volunteer escadron.
>Ask Adelinde how exactly she got into the airforce if she technically should have been disqualified.
>Ask Adelinde something else (Write in)
>End the conversation and go visit Ermengardis.
>End the conversation and go back to Liliane
>End the conversation and return back to the air base, and manage things as your orders play out.

>>5608775
>Ask Adelinde why she seemingly switched her tune so quickly.
>Ask Adelinde how exactly she got into the airforce if she technically should have been disqualified.

>>5608775
>Ask Adelinde how exactly she got into the airforce if she technically should have been disqualified.

>>5608921
+1

"So, I get all of this is important but, why exactly did you switch your tune so quickly earlier? What made you suddenly trust me after being so...abrasive." You had a few hunches, but you couldn't be too sure. Thought his gets a slight look of bemusement from Adelinde, and a slight smile.

"I thought you would have caught on by now but you can never tell me a lie. No one can. If you'd like for me to prove it, go ahead. To be honest I never got why people usually can't tell when someone is telling them complete nonsense, though I guess they perhaps are distracted or aren't so perceptive. I should note this applies to half truths as well, like you did earlier." You feel your heart sink a bit as she says this. You hope that she isn't talking about the one you just gave and not the one earlier, though given her smile seems to slightly grow you aren't too sure about that. Maybe it'd be best to test this?

"Okay, how about this, I'll tell you five things. Some will be lies, some truths. You tell me what's true and what's not." You had to think of some things to say, but you swiftly came up with a few while Adelinde gave you a nod. "Firstly, dislike and have a rivalry with my brothers. Secondly I think this war is a good thing. Thirdly, I always wanted to be in the air corps and was an aviation enthusiast even before it was formed. Fourthly, I supported the Lothring Invasion. And Lastly, I have a fondness for Vitulian Cuisine."

"The first one is a half truth I'm fairly sure. I presume you don't have a rivalry with all of them, given that. Your second statement is also an interesting one. There's a few little things that make me tempted to say it's not fully true, but it is. I presume you believe this war is necessary, but aren't too keen on the losses that have been sustained or the glory of old having died everywhere on land. That, or you otherwise have some doubts. Your third statement is a lie. Yet I think I'd be able to figure that out even without paying attention. Your fourth however is true. Which is honestly a bit of a surprise to me. And your fifth is also true. Though I think most people who can afford to go down south to the country and have enjoyed their food know that it is quite high quality. I believe some dishes in Agdemark are better however, however I am hardly unbiased in that regard." It was actually quite surprising how well she did. She was quite lucky, or not lying when she said a lie wouldn't get past her.

"Surprising. Very surprising." You quietly mutter as she simply smiles. Shortly after however you ask another question. "You said you should have been disqualified because of your height earlier. How exactly did you get in if that is the case?" This causes Adelinde's smile to fall slightly.

"Oh...I presumed that much was obvious. Connections. Really, it's not hard, especially for someone of my skill in an aircraft." There's that pride again, and with it she shows an almost smug smile upon her face. "All I needed to do was simply get some numbers changed when I was recruited. Initially, my instructor was surprised and clearly could tell something was wrong, but quickly such thoughts faded when my early talents were shown. I admit however back then I was a bit more sloppy, but still quite adept."

"So, corruption essentially." You say flatly, causing Adelinde to take a bit of a more unamused look.

"I prefer to call it a bureaucratic error in everyone's favor. No bribery or blackmail was involved after all, just a friend in the right place. Corruption is a harsh word with a serious offense and connotations attached to it. And very clearly it was a good choice for not only myself but all of Gallonia. Besides, Miss Valmont, I'm sure you are quite familiar with it yourself. After all, is your family not one of a handful of the most powerful in politics, darling?" Her smile returns after, clearly she was aware that your position was in part due to your family "But that too was a good choice for the nation. Now, I'd suggest you go try and argue for the man that allowed me to get into the air corps a promotion, but I'd fear you'd take me seriously. Regardless, a little bit of nepotism clearly hasn't hurt our escadre so far given both your position and mine. Then again I suppose I do not know of anyone else who could be argued got here due to connections or friendships, and I doubt either of us got in on those alone."

"Alright, alright. I get the point. And please, never call me darling again." You swiftly say, a tad bit annoyed, though Adelinde seems to be a bit bemused.

"Don't call me getting in corruption and we have a deal." Adelinde says still in a bit of a better mood compared to before, though it seems to slowly fade, perhaps her longing returning despite the distraction.

>Ask Adelinde why she isn't in a volunteer escadron.
>Ask Adelinde if she could potentially help with the murder investigation.
>Ask Adelinde something else (Write in)
>End the conversation and go visit Ermengardis.
>End the conversation and go back to Liliane
>End the conversation and return back to the air base, and manage things as your orders play out.

>>5612227
>>End the conversation and go visit Ermengardis.

>>5612227
>End the conversation and return back to the air base, and manage things as your orders play out.
We can return to visit Ermengardis after letting a turn play out. Chances are, another pilot will end up in sickbay too.

>>5612227
>End the conversation and go visit Ermengardis.
I want to see her this turn

You give a nod to Adelinde before saying "You have your deal then. Anyway, I appreciate that this was all cleared up. Hopefully the leak didn't spread far or to anyone who might wish to take action against you. However, for now, I believe I'll be visiting Ermengardis. She is here after all, right?"

"Yes, she is. She's still recovering, obviously, however she is doing quite well now. I'll have to speak with her later, maybe with Liliane. I think her bed is further down the wing. But I could be wrong." Adelinde says before you walk off, though she follows until you walk past Liliane, who seems fairly relieved to see Adelinde is fine. Though given the fact that she already knew her secret, perhaps she was tipped off by something Adelinde said or the fact you dragged her aside in private and was concerned for her safety. Regardless of the reason behind it, l'As swiftly splits off from you as you walk past Liliane to continue being with their friend while you look for Ermengardis. When you do find her, she is annoyingly at the exact end of the wing, in the corner. You can't help but wonder if this was deliberate, a choice on her part, or if this was some of the paranoia some had given her origins. You can clearly see she's sat up and quietly writing in a journal of sorts. And after you arrive she briefly pauses to look at you before returning to writing, and a second later has a double take.

"Miss Valmont? I wasn't expecting to see you here of all places." She swiftly writes a tiny bit more before putting the pencil she was using to her side and giving her full attention to you, along with a salute, and a slight smile. "It's been a bit since we last talked, hasn't it. Have things been going well for you lately?" She sounded a bit happy to see you, which was nice.

"Things have been alright I suppose. Could be better as always, could be worse." You say before she soon asks another question.

"What got you to come here? It wasn't just for me, was it?" She asks with a hint of concern, surprisingly.

"No, it wasn't. Adélaïde requested to come here because Liliane got wounded, so I allowed it and decided to come here as well to speak with both of them and yourself." She seems a bit relieved after this.

"Good, I know how busy you are and how important your time is, and I'd really rather you not just waste a day on me alone. I hope Adélaïde comes to speak with me later. Despite her bravado and pride, she's fun to talk to. And at this point she's not as bad as she used to be when it comes to her ego. At least with me. Though, maybe after my recent defeat she'll be a bit more haughty compared to the last time we talked, heh." She seems to be in decent spirits. Though that might just be because you arrived.

>Ask Ermengardis about her view on the escadron and how things have been going.
>Ask Ermengardis about her view on her fellow aces and pilots, and if they've changed at all for those who've survived.
>Ask Ermengardis how things have been going for her and if she's been bothered by people still.
>Ask Ermengardis about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.
>Ask Ermengardis about her thoughts on the murders.
>Ask Ermengardis quietly if she knows someone named Adelinde.

(Sorry for the short post. Hopefully votes come fast and I can make another, larger one later tonight to make up for it.)

>>5614627
>Ask Ermengardis about her view on her fellow aces and pilots, and if they've changed at all for those who've survived.
>Ask Ermengardis how things have been going for her and if she's been bothered by people still.

>>5614627
>>Ask Ermengardis about her view on the escadron and how things have been going.
>>Ask Ermengardis about her view on her fellow aces and pilots, and if they've changed at all for those who've survived.

>>5614627
>Ask Ermengardis how things have been going for her and if she's been bothered by people still.
>Ask Ermengardis about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.

"Speaking of, what exactly do you think of your fellow aces and pilots? Have any of your opinions changed on them by chance? Or have you met some others?" Considering what she said about Adelinde, or well, 'Adélaïde', you did wonder how her view of the others had shifted, if at all. Plus some of the newer aces were people who you hadn't learned much about, so it would be interesting to see how she viewed them.

"Well, as I said about Adélaïde, she's much less haughty around me ever since I grew quite successful as an ace. Though, maybe I'm just used to her manner of speaking. It feels kind of snooty most of the time, and she exudes confidence with it so...I don't know. Regardless, despite that, given the fact she's actually not once been too bothered by my heritage and has at a few occasions expressed her hopes that I could potentially become a friendly rival and catch up I think it's not too bad. Though, given a few conversations I had with her I can kind of notice something a bit under her veil of confidence and superiority...I think part of it might be due to a... uhm...loss she suffered a while ago. Though I could be wrong. Said loss is certainly what causes her to be so protective about Liliane though. She often times spends her free time when not on a flight with Liliane reading outside on the air field. Often checking the time every few minutes as she waits for Liliane's flight to return. This usually is only when Liliane is active while she's in reserve though. As even when she wasn't meant to go up she often decided to go on a 'lone patrol' shortly after. And given her status, she isn't really denied. So, usually she's just sent up with Liliane now unless she's been essentially forced to rest and relax. I can't blame her though. She seems to value Liliane almost like a daughter or sister she never had. Though I can give a guess as to why she views her in that way." Ermengardis says with a bit of thought, though you get almost a feeling of pity from her, and also one that Adelinde likely wasn't lying when she said she Ermengardis was among the few to know everything.

Shortly after a slight pause, Ermengardis continues. "As for Liliane herself, she's honestly extremely cheerful, reasonably confident yet humble, and honestly just a nice compassionate person who doesn't let things bring her down. I think this might be in part because she doesn't really spend much time with everyone else and mainly sticks to Adélaïde, but she has spoken to me a few times too. Maybe she wisely only speaks to aces or those who've managed to survive a long time so as to not grow...attached. But it could just be a lucky coincidence for her. She's always looking to improve though, and I believe she's even tried reaching out to Pretan pilots as well. She seems quite diligent from what I've seen, and dedicated to her craft. Though, I can't help but feel as if the full reality of this conflict has yet to dawn on her. And I don't know if that's a good or bad thing. I heard recently that Eva became an ace as well. She's actually surprisingly insightful. I think she perhaps has done quite a bit of reading on the field of psychoanalytics, at least in her spare time. I think she's actually working on perhaps her own thoughts on the matter, but I am not aware as to if she actually has education in the field. Otherwise, she seems to be a Lloegyophile what with her obsession with Pretany. I've not interacted with her too much though given she wasn't an ace before I got injured and, well...I know it's a bit cruel but I try not to speak with or grow attached to the other pilots in my escadron if they are new or unproven. I think you can understand why. I feel bad in doing it, but..." She goes silent for a bit before eventually letting out a sigh and saying "Lucie is a good commander I'd say. Well, at least at keeping morale up. Otherwise she seems to just have a premonition, or is lucky. I honestly cannot tell if she is hyper aware of her surroundings while on the defense or if she's just lucky. Though, I suppose if it was just luck it'd have run out by now. Right? Anyway, I've not really had the chance to meet many pilots outside my Escadron. Outside of Major Hauet. From the brief time I was able to speak with her and see her, she seems very casual and arguably unprofessional and caustic. Though I'm sure she perhaps was just having a bad day."

With everything that she's said you feel she has a good familiarity with the people in her escadron at the very least. Or well, the important people at any rate. Though, you decide to ask another fairly simple question. "Has anyone bothered you lately? And how have things been going since we last talked?"

"I've been...fine. People have, not in my own escadron but when I'm sent off to train people some of them seem to look at me with suspicion. And on Public Relation tours a few journalists always hound me over uncomfortable, overly personal questions. Or just outright allegations and slander. It's only ever a few, and I do my best to ignore them, but at times I feel...unwanted, to be honest. It's no where near as bad as it used to be, but while the military and most of my fellow pilots seem to not particularly care about me I feel as if some in the media have turned the public against me for no reason. I know it's probably unreasonable, and these people are likely a small minority whom are just quite vocal but it does still bother me. I mean, I am Gallonian still, after all. Not someone from the colonies who's Gallonian on a technicality or a foreigner who's been living here and turned into a Gallonian citizen, but someone born in what is rightfully Gallonian land, speaks Gallonich, wore Gallonian cloths and has mostly Gallonian blood. What's worse is I'd not be surprised if half of my extended family, on the Prußenmarkian side of the lines hates me..." She took a brief pause before saying "Sorry. I know you didn't really ask about my personal problems, just...how I was doing. But, I'm grateful that at the very least the people of my escadron are supportive, along with the commander of the escadre it's a part of." She gives you a bit of a smile, though it's clear she's still been plagued by some issues.

>Ask Ermengardis for more detail on her view on the escadron and how things have been going.
>Ask Ermengardis about her family in more detail.
>Ask Ermengardis about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.
>Ask Ermengardis about her thoughts on the murders.
>Ask Ermengardis quietly if she knows someone named Adelinde.

(BTW It's been a while since I asked this but if any of you have constructive criticism pls gib.)

>>5615829
>Ask Ermengardis for more detail on her view on the escadron and how things have been going.
>Ask Ermengardis quietly if she knows someone named Adelinde.

Does inter squadron dynamics affect battle results?

>>5615829
>Ask Ermengardis for more detail on her view on the escadron and how things have been going.
>Ask Ermengardis about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.

>>5615829
>>Ask Ermengardis for more detail on her view on the escadron and how things have been going.
>>Ask Ermengardis about her view on the aircraft she has flown and fought against.

Interesting that Ermengardis claims that she only got to know one ace outside of Vert given that she had multiple TRACOM tours.

As for criticism, I wonder if there is a way to interleave the Choose Your Own Adventure portion with the warfighting better. Or are the other players fine with having one thread of CYOA and another thread of operational orders?

"Mind sharing more detail on your view of the Escadron and how things have been going? It sounds like you've had a bit of a mixed bag." You say, and this is met with a slight smile from Ermengardis that seems almost a bit somber.

"Yes, things haven't been perfect as you can guess but, the people in my escadron have helped a fair bit. And I can sympathize with them alot too. Still, things are much better than they were before, given the obvious. No one really bothers me unless I'm away from the escadron, and even then those of a higher rank then me aren't really trying to find ways to punish me. Some of the newer pilots seem wary of me, but often they just keep their distance as I do mine. I do feel bad though at tines because I feel some of them were initially curios about me and I kind of pushed them away because I didn't want to find them really good friends only for them to die. Though, I guess me opening up to only pilots who survive a while is something that's become fairly known in my escadron by now at least. I do try and give advice if it's asked however, as I don't just want to leave them completely in the dark and to fend for themselves. As for the escadron itself, I think it's done quite well in combat, well until recently anyway. Adélaïde is a good flight leader and works well with Liliane. The two are also quite good at avenging or saving rookie pilots who get ambitious Prußenmarkians on their tails. I'd say nothing short of an elite pilot like a fellow ace would be able to shoot them down. Well, that or Ack Ack. It doesn't matter how skilled you are, a bout of extremely bad luck can easily end someone's carrier. Then again, I think my escadron has certainly had luck in spades recently, given neither myself nor Liliane died. Honestly, provided our newer pilots are given time to gain experience and don't die, I think we'll be able to be one of the most successful in the escadre. We have a few elites to round things out after all. But if we had a few veterans rounding out our escadron to support the elites we'd basically be untouchable. Well, unless the enemy gets a similar flight up in the air anyway." She seems a bit hopeful clearly, so that's good.

"Speaking of your enemy, thoughts on their aircraft? And your own for that matter?" You cant help but remember asking the same question all those months ago near the start of the war. It's shocking to believe it's been over a year already.

"Well, the Vérany C.2 is a nice aircraft. Though I feel it's not as agile as I'd like. Due to it's design it has a higher stall speed and if you pull on the stick for a hard turn too much in a dogfight the aircraft will fight you, and it seems to bleed speed off a bit faster than I'd like. A number of maneuvers which were great in the Dupont that I favor are harder to pull off in the aircraft, and I guess I'm just not really fully used to it's handling or limits yet. I think I just need a bit more time to get used to it and review my strategies. I've seen Eva use some very interesting moves that the Dupont couldn't ever manage thanks to the speed and weight of the craft but I'm not fully aware as to how to do them just yet. And I don't exactly have much time to practice to be honest. At least not unless in combat. But I'll probably figure it out sooner or later. Once I'm out of the apothecaries care anyway. As for the enemies aircraft, if you mean their newest one, I couldn't tell you given I've been stuck here while it's been flying about. If you mean the first Falke, ironically the D Two, then I certainly can. The first Falke is quite a capable aircraft. It's not as fast, but it's more agile. Though I think it's not that bad as it's lack of speed means in the right situation, as long as you conserve your own and force the enemy to spend as much of theirs as possible, you easily can pile on advantages and make it a simple matter of not overshooting and over committing to taking them down. And of course, not being blind to the other aircraft around you. I do think that we might have an advantage over them in the near future though." She says a bit confidently.

"What about Lothring?" You ask, knowing full well the bad things that are likely to happen.

"They aren't a threat. Their aces are few and the rest of their pilots aren't that good to be honest. If they had training comparable to the Prußenmarkians then yes, they would be a danger to more than just our recon aircraft as their little CN Three is even more agile than the Falke and faster than our own aircraft. But not by much. If we were Pretans then sure, we'd have a problem. But we aren't, so we don't. We are more than capable of dealing with them as it stands. Their bombers, likewise, are intimidating but not insurmountable. They just take a lot of rounds to take down. Honestly, the biggest problem with Lothring I'd say is their soldiers if anything. They really do not want a repeat of the last time we marched into their country. Besides, I'd not be surprised if their government hopes that a victory can result in them getting Daloyaume back for their efforts, as if the Prußenmarkians win this war they certainly are going to join their sphere of influence after we violated their neutrality much like Prußenmark did to Daloyaume." You wonder if she's right. And if Prußenmark would even reward Lothring for effectively being forced into the war...

>Ask Ermengardis about her family in more detail.
>Ask Ermengardis about her thoughts on the murders.
>Ask Ermengardis quietly if she knows someone named Adelinde.
>Ask Ermengardis about progress on her book and what it'll be about.
>Wrap up the conversation and get back to the war.

(Sorry for the delay, intended to get this out about a day ago but stuff happened. Also, I don't know how to really integrate this into the war side of the game better. Interactions generally take quite a bit of time. If I had more players, and time, maybe it'd work as I'd be able to easily get multiple posts of talking done in a day if people voted fast enough. Obviously a proper war turn is gonna be at best one a day, even if I had time because of how much time it takes, but still...Personally I'm fine with the way things are but since you bring it up I am curios now how you guys feel about it.)

>>5617902
>>Ask Ermengardis quietly if she knows someone named Adelinde.
>>Ask Ermengardis about progress on her book and what it'll be about.
The current pace works fine

>>5617902
>Ask Ermengardis about her family in more detail.
>Ask Ermengardis quietly if she knows someone named Adelinde.

>>5617902
>Ask Ermengardis about progress on her book and what it'll be about.
War turns probably have a minimum turnaround time of a day for the players to figure micromanagement and debate operational stances. But anyways, daily probably works for everyone, I think.

>>5617902
>Ask Ermengardis quietly if she knows someone named Adelinde.
>Ask Ermengardis about progress on her book and what it'll be about.

QM?