Monster Research Society 3 - Grand Noah, A Peaceful Future?

For other scenes, please refer to my paste bin.

Last scene, Rick's Father began to organize a sortie into the western foothills in search of a giant. Together, the three members of the Monster Research Society hasten to make preparations for a busy tomorrow.

The BGM city1.ogg is recommended for this. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bqt7WpeTH0M
I hope you enjoy the continuation of this monstrous slice of life.

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We arrive in the bustling city and find it lively and rambunctious. The market teems with the activities of hundreds of people walking, running, carrying, crying, shouting and so on through the gray city's cobblestone brick streets. Flashy banners and exotic clothing add color to a setting that might otherwise seem gloomy. The city is full of curious sights and the delicious scents from street side vendors is dreadfully tempting. Scents of roasted meats, foreign spices and wonderful baked goods assault my senses. Standing above all looms Grand Noah Castle exerting it's protective influence with quiet dignity.

“Wow,” I can't help but mutter. Now that I think about it, I lead a bit of a homely, ordinary life. I spend so much time researching, working, or just playing with the other researchers that I don't really get out much. So that's why I can't help but be impressed. “There are so many people!”

Anna laughs at me. “Did you forget that you live in a city?”

“I guess so.” The streets are packed with merchants haggling their wares to a writhing mob of monsters and humans. Everyone's rubbing elbows so casually, I bet they don't even notice as they excitedly push through their busy day. Well, they're probably so used to this that it's probably ordinary.

“Ricky?” My succubus friend gives me a strange look. “You all together there?” I give her a cheerful nod. It'd be hard to explain I guess, but something like this is just exciting. She chuckles. “You're a funny kid. The city's so close to home and you're this impressed by it.” It's just Anna and me now, Father must've run ahead. I wouldn't even know where to go to try and follow him. “Aren't you supposed to be the mature one? You shouldn't be amazed by every little thing.”

“I am mature,” I unintentionally pout. “You're just a cynic.”

Anna seems distracted for a moment. “Maybe.” I follow her eyes and see her looking at a couple near a fruit stand. It's an ordinary scene, a twenty something human of slight build and a flowering alraune with yellow dandelion-like petals flirting shamelessly in broad daylight. Anna turns and shrugs. “I just don't see the point in getting riled up by ordinary things. It's the kind of thing only kids do, after all.”

I huff and stomp away. “I'm mature!” I insist. But why am I getting snared by her taunts then? Being an adult is hard.

A sinister laugh comes from behind me. “Oh yeah~?” My instincts from a prehistoric age kick in at the sign of danger. Someone's definitely observing me as prey! Suddenly, I'm grasped from both sides! I'm suffering from the bound condition! “Are you really?” A sultry voice whispers in my ear. Anna's hands move across my chest and waist, pulling me tightly against her. I'm definitely suffering! I struggle to pull away and find her kneeling behind me, gazing at me passionately while her hands strongly hold me in an awkward embrace. My brain races to configure the physics that would lead to her kneeling behind me (super speed or a slide maneuver?) but there are more pressing matters to attend to. Anna's hands crawl in opposite directions towards sensitive spots I'd rather not have abused. Creeping digits edge towards my waist and draw a sensuous line across my abdomen as another hand moves upward to strongly grope at my chest. I'm completely at her mercy, I realize with worry as I meet her gaze. Were her lips, now so close, always this glossy and tempting? Did her eyes always possess this shockingly alluring power? I start to lose my resolve as I stare at those seductive crimson orbs. Her words bring me back. “Why don't you prove it?”

I turn my head away in a panic. “P-prove it?” That was almost bad. But I'm not thinking about anything strange, really. I'm a mature adult, after all, so something like this doesn't bother me at all. Sorry, that's a lie.

“Yeah,” Anna sighs. “We could do that.”

“That? That being?”

“You know.” That traveling hand rests just above my belt and circles there meaningfully. “Something adults do.”

All I can manage in response is a pathetic whimper. Damn it Anna, you're the worst. I don't want you to see my erection. Actually, we're in public. I don't want anyone to see this erection! “Well, there are people around and they're watching so...” I manage a weak excuse.

Her wicked palm presses on my waist as her fingers inch towards that most dangerous of places. “I don't mind,” she coos.

“I mind, I mind!” I keep struggling and finally my persistence pays off. That said, I think Anna just let me go. I feel the oppressive weight of many eyes on me and my shame. People really were watching. How embarrassing. The faces I see portray a rainbow of emotions and intents. I think the most disturbing face I see is one of encouragement. What strange times we live in. I bet my namesake would be really amazed. Considering my circumstances, though, I doubt he'd be happy.

“So,” I hear from behind me. I really was hoping to move forward with our day but Anna seems intent to sustain her barrage of abuse. Maybe I should ignore her? Well, that might turn out even worse. I decide to bite the bullet and meet her gaze. Somehow, she looks kind of mysterious. Aloof. Kneeling there with her legs tucked underneath herself, she almost seems shy. “When we get back...?”

A moment passes before I realize her intent. Ah, my face is burning. I hear some support from around me, a cheer, a brief ring of applause.

“Congratulations.”

“I kind of hate you, but good luck.”

“You're young aren't you? Still, it's nice to see even an abnormal human relationship.”

Ah, that's right, Anna's in disguise, complete with stupid hat. No wonder she didn't molest me with her tail. And here I thought she was changing up her tactics. That aside, if I endure this crowd a moment longer I think I might faint. I rush to Anna's side and grab her hand. As I pull her away the cheers grow louder. We really do live in a nice city. But this is definitely way too much. I run and she follows me. The streets are too busy and crowded for my intent so I end up abandoning them for a dark alley. We go a ways and then, satisfied we're alone, I stop.

Anna shyly smiles. “I really didn't mean now but if you're fine with it-”

“Stop,” I beg her.

She drops the amorous girl routine and laughs. Anna looks really pleased with herself. “You really are the cutest Ricky.” I hope I mature quickly so I'm less of an easy target. As if reading my mind, she hugs me close. “Never change.” It's more of her sexual harassment, but it's nice. When she grabs me from behind I feel like prey, but face to face it's different. The soft press of her body, her gentle warmth, it's almost relaxing when it's like this. I still can't help feeling nervous though. “But you know,” she continues, “pulling me away so suddenly, you might give people the wrong impression.”

I had to do something. The mental image of that last scene is still burned into my memory. The length of her skirt seemed to vex me. Were it just a bit shorter, I might've seen... I push away from her. “New topic please.”

She laughs at my reaction. “Sure. Are we going to find that ridiculous old man or are we going to continue our excursion as a couple?”

Another trap, I ignore this one. I couldn't take another battery of sexual harassment. “Well, Father has the money so it's hard to do anything on our own.”

“Speak for yourself. I receive a substantial stipend as part of my duties.”

“Huh?” I didn't know that. “The organization pays you?”

“Obviously. How else would I get by?” She gives me a judgmental look. “Really, did you think we lived on charity?”

That should have been apparent. I shouldn't be surprised but I don't get any kind of compensation for my work. I guess it's because I'm still an apprentice. There aren't any consequences if I fail in my duties because I really don't have any, not official ones at least. The same can't be said about my fellows. I'm always hearing about deadlines. I've always worked hard expecting to be in such a position myself but that time's never come. Surely that'll change someday. “Well, it's not like we really need anything. We've already got all the expensive camping equipment back in storage.” I lead us out of the alley and back into the human rush of the merchant district. Hopefully Anna doesn't pull another stunt like earlier. Really, that was pretty outrageous.

“We'll still need various sundries though. You can be certain I won't allow that geezer to buy my rations. He'll doubtlessly pick up something needlessly disturbing.”

That's quite the negative opinion of my Father. Well, I guess not. That's just how their relationship works. “Then I guess you'll want to visit the food stalls?”

She doesn't answer. Her gaze seems focused on a curious display. A merchant is heading into town and next to his wagon is a gorgeous, light framed woman with gentle curves. Three men kneel in reverence about her. She's hardly clothed at all, definitely a succubus considering her wings, tail and horns. One of the men approaches her and kisses her feet. She laughs at him derisively, grabs the man and hauls him off. Anna's hands start to shake. “Wait,” I say, suddenly making the connection. “Earlier, when you saw that couple, you weren't thinking about your succubus skills, were you?” No wonder she got all lovey dovey, she was compensating for-

Anna's eyes start to tremble. Oh no. I've said something terrible. “I wasn't thinking about how awful of a succubus I am, if that's what you're asking. I certainly wasn't lamenting the fact that I can't even seduce a virgin adolescent full of hormones, that's ridiculous! Ridiculous!” Oh no. Here it is. Anna's super weak point. She's got kind of an inferiority complex when it comes to her identity as a succubus. I'm usually really careful to avoid this but sometimes it just happens. Her lips curl angrily as the flood gates threaten to overflow. “Look at her, just flaunting her raw sensuality, just bragging to the whole world how much of an incredible bombshell she is! But more than that, she's got the attitude right, the 100% self assurance that she can make anyone turn into a whimpering pathetic shell of a man with the right word, the right action. I bet she made them piru-piru in their pants from that!”

Piru-piru? “I'm sorry Anna. I shouldn't have brought it up. Um, we should go, maybe find something tasty for lunch. I haven't eaten since breakfast so-”

“What are you apologizing for?” she interrupts me. “You didn't do anything wrong. Have a little backbone Ricky, jeez!” I guess she's feeling abusive too. Not that's too different from normal.

“Oh, okay. Well, I guess there's no reason for you to be upset then, right?”

“Yeah, sure! Absolutely! I shouldn't be upset at all. I'm just the weakest succubus who ever lived. It's fine. Really. Who needs to know how to use energy drain anyway? My tail's super cute so what does it even matter! And I can even use magic eyes, like a youma! Like a youma!” she repeats. “So what if it doesn't do what it's supposed to, I can still do it, right? So there's probably a succubus weaker than me, right?”

“R-right.”

“What's with that lack of confidence?” Her eyes lose focus and adopt a dull, hazy look. “Ah. I'm begging for comfort from Ricky and he's patronizing me. Is this a new low for succubus kind? Mother, I'm sorry.” But then something evil gleams in her eye. She charges a nearby pedestrian, a mature looking bearded guy with an outdoorsy look to him. Anna grabs hold of the man and shakes him. “I'm sexy, aren't I? I'm totally sexy! I bet you're going piru-piru in your pants right now!” She said it again. Is she regressing in maturity? Probably not. I think she's just lost her mind a little, that's all.

“Lady, I don't even know you! Let go of me!”

Oh, right, Anna was assaulting a civilian. I move to stop her but she's already let go. She makes a pathetic little cry, but still holds it together. “You don't even realize I'm a succubus, do you?”

“What? Are you delusional? It's obvious you're just a human girl.” The guy looks confused but tries to offer his sympathy to the shuddering succubus. “I don't know your story, but if you're feeling inferior or something crazy don't be. There's nothing wrong with being human and you definitely have your charms. So just accept who you are, you'll be happier that way.”

Something breaks inside her. “Ah. Oh. Of course. Did you hear that Ricky? I should just accept being a human. After all, I'm just a human...human...human...” Meltdown achieved. Tears flow undeterred down her face as she smiles the smile of one who has accepted their grim destiny. “I've decided to go on a journey to find my humanity Ricky! So don't worry! I'll be back some day!” And with that she charges off with all the power that a level 17 succubus can muster.

“Ho boy.” Well now what do I do? At the very least I should be nice. I walk over to the citizen and offer my apologies. “I'm sorry, she's just not feeling herself right now.”

“You know that girl? Well, whatever it is she's going through, I hope it all turns out all right.” The tough looking guy offers his hand.

I take it and we exchange a firm handshake. “We appreciate your kind words.” This really is a nice city.

“You should follow her,” a low, growling voice guides me in a sage like manner.

“Father!” I greet him. I take a moment to excuse myself from the citizen and we say goodbye before turning back to Father. “What a coincidence to meet you now.”

“Hrmm, indeed, what a peculiar coincidence. It's a kind of coincidence so coincidental it's almost hard to believe it's a coincidence, hmm?” He drapes an arm around my shoulder and talks to me in an almost conspiratorial fashion. “But enough of that. Listen. A running girl wants to be chased, son. I've seen it many times. Let them go and their sadness will smolder, becoming anger. They'll resent you. But chase them and you'll prove you're a person they can depend on. In their fragile state, they may say hurtful things, be violent, mean or crude, but as men we have a duty to bare that kind of punishment. It's the way of the world. Ah, but if they tell you to go away three times, they mean it, so give them some space. The first time is usually a test, the second one is to make sure you're not just doing it out of sympathy or a feeling of obligation, but they always mean the third time. Or if they scream at you. Yelling' is fine. Screaming is bad.”

“That sounds complicated. And very detailed.”

“People are complicated, son.” I nod in thanks and take a step after Anna when Father stops me. “Ah, wait. One brief caveat. This isn't any normal girl, it's a monster girl. Considering the nature of her anxiety, that violent thing I mentioned earlier might be a brutal rape.” My face pales. “Well, it's just a possibility. This is Anna we're talking about, after all. But I'd say without a glimmer of doubt that she fancies you. Well, it's likely just lust. Don't get discouraged though. I think you have a chance! If you're into that kind of thing. If it helps, I approve of this childhood friend romance.” My Father's supporting me in his own special way.

“Don't we both have to be kids for us to be childhood friends?” Wait, that's not really that important. I really do want to go after her but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't intimidated. 'A brutal rape' does not sound appealing. I like Anna. I like her a lot. As a friend. And besides, she did say she was tougher than she looked. “I think I'll just go shopping with you Father.”

The sage frowns. “I see. Well, I understand your reasoning and respect your resolve. But if I were in your shoes, I'd tempt the rape.” Knowing Father, I think there's more reasoning for that than just a desire to help Anna. “You're a strong one alright. Continue on your current glorious path. You must seduce the succubus!”

“Hold on, where did that come from?”

Father's getting excited for some reason. “Indeed, you're currently pursuing the ultimate eroticism in this world! To take a menacing, powerful, manipulative monster and make her all moe-moe dere-dere, there's no greater taboo on this earth!”

“What language was that?”

“Stay strong. It's sure to be a difficult path. I speak from experience, after all. I fashioned this magnificently toned body in my own hopes of attaining the ultimate ero, but it's a long road.” I don't really understand... “But enough frivolity. There's work to be done. It's a good thing you're coming with me. I had some things I wanted to talk to you about.” I'd be lying if I said I wasn't worried about that girl, but some alone time with Father in the city sounds nice too. I'm sure she'll be fine.

Father seems ready to go on a tirade but something else catches his attention. A crowd is forming on main street and a commotion is rising. A loud orator speaks above them all but from here I can't quite make it out. But the words 'punishment' and 'Ilias' reach my ears. “It's another one of those guys.”

"Those guys?" The guru seems interested.

"Yeah. They're missionaries of Ilias. Remember what Anna and I were talking about earlier? I thought you'd know about it for certain. They're talking about some really scary stuff these days, fire and brimstone, that kind of thing."

Father's eyes grow sober. “I would like to see these doomsayers,” he says, his tone suddenly very serious.

I've heard these preachers before, really awful stuff. "It's not anything people should listen to, really."

"They seem to think otherwise," he says, gesturing towards the crowd. "I think we should take a look," and with that he takes the lead. I really don't want to hear that kind of thing again but I doubt I can dissuade Father. I helplessly follow him, dreading that looming negativity that towers ahead of me.

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Something ominous lurks on the horizon. The Monster Research Society will observe firsthand the menace of the paradoxical organization that both supports and reviles their own. The end times threaten next time in 'Faith Undying'. For now, please enjoy an excerpt from 'Of Magic and Mysticism, Monstrous and Mundane'.

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Detect

This skill allows the user to attain a heightened level of perceptive ability through concentration and a focus of willpower. In doing so, the user can obtain key information on the target of the ability, though just how useful this information can be is limited by the users own knowledge. Skillful users of detect can determine the method in which their foe will attack before they move at all or note weaknesses that might swing a battle in their favor. While the skill has plenty of use in combat, it's most typically learned by members of the Monster Research Society to aid in their investigations. It should come as little surprise, then, that the most renowned user of the skill is the founder of the MRS, Frederich von Allenborough. It's said that his mastery of the ability was so complete that through it's use he could obtain supernatural senses and feel the presence of magic no matter how great or small the source was.