An Afternoon for Bonding Devilgram
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L3V1: Should we be seeing this?!
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*HOL foyer*
*sound of MC’s footsteps*
*fade to MC’s bedroom*
???: zzz... zzz...
*MC’s footsteps, walking closer to bed*
Solomon: *adorably happy smile, eyes closed, relaxed in sleep* zzz… zzz…
Shake him awake.
*camera shake*
Solomon: *eyes fly open, wide and panicky* Huh?! Who’s that?! ...*eyes light up, smiles in delight* Oh hey, Chise. I didn’t know you were back. *sheepish* Sorry, I must have dozed off.
–
2. Leave the room for now.
*MC’s footsteps leave, fade to HOL foyer again*
*time skip*
Solomon: *opens MC's bedroom door, smiling, waving* Hey, Chise. Welcome home.
–
2. A) Don’t you have anything to say for yourself?
Solomon: *sheepish, guilty smile* ...Sorry for entering your room without permission. *cute, forgive-me pout* ...And for dozing off in here.
2. B) Hey, Solomon.
Solomon: I was actually hoping to surprise you when you got home… *pouty* but it seems like I dozed off while waiting for you. Mission failed. *raises hand, grinning innocently* Obviously, I haven’t touched anything in your room, so don’t worry.
–
*small time skip, both back in MC’s room*
Solomon: I came here to ask you about something, but you were out. At first, I was going to come back later, but then Asmodeus suggested I wait here for you. *pleased, innocent smile* And, well, here we are.
You looked pretty comfy.
Solomon: *sheepish smile* I was. It’s been a while since I had such a good sleep.
–
2. Jeez, you startled me.
Solomon: Well, that was the intention, so I guess it kind of worked. *teasing hum of disappointment* It’s a shame I didn’t get to see your reaction since I was sleeping, though.
–
Solomon: I’ve been staying up late a lot recently, so I really ought to be more careful.
Have you been doing research again?
Solomon: *shakes head, humming* Not quite. But it’s something just as exciting, so I was wondering if you’d like to join me.
–
2. Do you want me to help you so you can get more sleep?
Solomon: *sweet laugh, amused* Sharp as always, Chise. That’s the idea. “Help” isn’t quite the right word, though. The plan is to have fun together.
–
Solomon: That’s why I came over to ask you out. *eyes crinkle* Why don’t we go somewhere else so I can explain things to you?
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Belphie: Are there books about sleep?
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*bookstore*
Solomon: Well, we’re here. Are you sure you aren’t tired after all that walking? This bookstore is kind of in the middle of nowhere. It’s basically a hole in the wall. I wanted to come here because they’re hosting a curio book fair for a limited time...which I find pretty fascinating.
I don’t see anything out of the ordinary.
Solomon: You would think so, right? *chuckles in delight* That’s what makes this event so interesting.
–
2. What do you mean by “curio”?
Solomon: The word curio applies to things that are rare or unusual in the human world, right? *chuckles* However, in this case, I would say these books are more bizarre than anything else.
–
Solomon: You don’t choose the books you want to read at this event. Rather, the books choose you. Essentially, the books will call out to whoever they deem fit to read them. That explanation alone probably doesn’t make much sense, so why don’t we see how it works for ourselves?
––––– Route 1
Solomon: Are there any books you’re interested in, Chise?
I’m curious about that book with the red spine.
Solomon: *perks up with a pleased sound, grinning* You noticed it, too, huh? That book will only allow people whose magic is strong enough to read it. Let’s pick it up and see what happens.
*pause to pick up book*
Solomon: The title of the book is “Healthy Habits You Can Start Today to Cultivate Your Magical Powers.”
A) “Healthy habits”? Isn’t it a little too late for that?
Solomon: *chuckles in amusement* It seems kind of irrelevant when you’re living in the Devildom, doesn’t it? I know it’s not that obvious from the title, though.
B) It’s not as wishy-washy as it sounds, though, is it?
Solomon: *pleased smile* Not at all. Depending on how you use it, this book could utterly destroy you.
–
Solomon: This book includes concrete and specific ways you can cultivate your magical potential. However, that only applies to a handful of people whose magic is strong enough. You’ll most likely hurt yourself if you try to force yourself to read it or attempt the methods listed in it, so I’ll leave it at that for now.
––––– Route 2
Solomon: Are there any books you’re interested in, Chise?
2. How about this book with a black spine?
Solomon: *intrigued* “The Demon’s Companion,” you say?
*Solomon pauses to open it*
Solomon: *surprised* That’s strange. This book won’t let me read it. Can you try and open it, Chise?
*flips through pages*
Solomon: *smiles* Looks like it worked for you. Why don’t you try reading it?
*small time skip*
Solomon: *hums thoughtfully, nodding genially* I see... So this book is about a demon and a human who travel the Devildom together and deepen their bond over the course of their journey. Perhaps the key to unlocking this book is the strength of the bonds with the demons you have a pact with. *chuckles, clearly envious* I’m not sure if I should feel proud or envious of you, Chise.
––––– End Routes
Solomon: *holds up hand for display* This is the book I wanted to show you, by the way. Because of how this book works, I need your cooperation to open it.
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ButlerBarb: I was a black alpaca you say?
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Solomon: This book is called “Demonic Methods to Deepen Connection and Build Stronger Relationships.” Let’s see if we can open this book first. Ready? And…go!
*Solomon and Chise open book together*
Solomon: *excited* It worked…! *chuckles, grinning* Just as I thought. I knew I could rely on you, Chise. *flirtatiously sly* In order to unlock this book, you have to open it with someone with whom you share a deep mutual trust.
You’re right. It had to be me.
Solomon: *laughs sweetly* Exactly. As my apprentice, I’m sure you must have faith in me...and I have absolute faith in you. *eyes crinkle* That’s why I was certain we could open this book together.
–
2. You have trust in me?
Solomon: Is that so surprising to you? *smiles fondly* In any case, I trust you more than anyone else. Besides...the fact that this book opened for us must mean that deep down, you secretly trust me, too, right? *chuckles* At least, that’s what I’d like to believe.
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Solomon: This book contains a spell to deepen our connection. I’d been curious about this book ever since someone told me about it a while ago, but I couldn’t do anything on my own. Why don’t we try out the spell together?
What’s there to try?
Solomon: It’s true that we have a strong connection, but...I’d like to get to know you even more, Chise.
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2. Why can’t we just deepen our bond bit by bit?
Solomon: Well, I’m not saying we can’t… I just figured we have what it takes to attempt a unique challenge like this, you know?
2. A) It does sound intriguing.
Solomon: *delighted* Right? I knew you’d get me. Of course, I’m interested in seeing whether this spell will actually deepen our bond, but… *smiles sweetly* …personally, I also find meaning in trying it out with you.
2. B) Sure, if that’s what you want.
Solomon: *delighted laugh, eyes crinkling* Thanks. In return, I’ll go along with whatever you want to do the next time I get a chance.
–
Solomon: *happily* I guess we’ll be buying this book then. Let’s have a look around to see if we find anything else that catches our attention. Let me know if you find anything interesting, okay?
Pick up “Do’s and Don’ts in the Kitchen: The Essence of Cooking.”
Solomon: *intrigued nod* Well, will you look at that? If I remember correctly, this is a classic cookbook that’s been around for quite a while. Can I try opening it?
*Solomon tries to open it*
*…black smoke appears*
Solomon: …*frowns* The pages are all obscured by smoke. I guess that means it doesn’t want me to read it. *oblivious smile* Well, it was calling you and not me, after all. Here, you try.
*opens book, dazzling bokeh lighting effect*
Solomon: ...I can smell something delicious from the book this time. You can see what recipes are included too. ...It says, “You have what it takes to cook this dish.” *smiles* Why don’t we get this book and see if Simeon and the others can open it too?
–
2. Pick up “Zoological Fortune-Telling: Devildom Edition.”
Solomon: That one’s fun. Try opening it, Chise.
*opens book, flash of white*
Solomon: *smiles approvingly* Looks like you got a jet-black dolphin. This book essentially categorizes its readers into different animal types and tells your fortune based on the animal you get. It says here that jet-black dolphins are peaceful beings who easily befriend and get along with anyone. *laughs fondly* They’re right, you know.
Solomon: I got a hell cockatoo, by the way. Apparently, I’m a troublemaker who bewilders people with my hexes and curses. They’re not wrong, I guess.
–
*fade to Purgatory Hall, Solomon’s bedroom*
Solomon: *excited* There were so many interesting books that I almost didn’t realize what time it was. The fun isn’t over yet, though. We’re just getting started. Let’s put this bond-deepening spell to the test, shall we?
*opens book*
Solomon: What does it say...? *confused, uncertain* Wait, really...?
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Beelzeburger: You should have invited me.
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Solomon: Well, we’re all set to go now. *hums in confusion* I never imagined this spell would require a strong pot of herbal tea, thick honey, and delicious cookies, though…
These are clearly ingredients for a tea party.
Solomon: You think so too, huh, Chise? We did follow all the instructions to a tee, though, so it should be correct.
–
2. I feel like something exciting is about to happen!
Solomon: *uncertain* Like a tea party, you mean? Because that’s what this looks like to me. The book did say this spell was for strengthening the bond with your partner, so maybe this is where the magic begins.
–
Solomon: All that’s left now is to chant this incantation out loud. Anyway, let’s complete the ritual and see what happens. Okay, Chise. Repeat after me.
––––– Route 1
Solomon: We hereby bid upon each other’s bond to manifest.
We hereby bid upon each other’s bond to manifest.
*flash of white, bokeh lighting illuminates room*
Solomon: *eyes widen, taken aback* What’s this…? The cookies turned into sandwiches, and the herbal tea transformed into sleepgrass. I have no idea why that happened, but I guess it means the spell worked.
A) Maybe they’re telling you to rest.
Solomon: *surprised* Are you saying our bond manifested in this way because you were worried about me? *smiles sweetly* Then I take it the sandwiches mean you want me to eat proper, healthier meals...and the sleepgrass means you want me to get more rest. *eyes crinkle in delight* If we interpret it that way, then these are a perfect manifestation of our bond.
B) Are they trying to tell us to rest?
Solomon: I guess they’re saying “try remedying your lifestyle habits first before going about proving the strength of your bond.” Hmm, this isn’t what I had in mind… *easygoing smile* Still, it’s not every day you have a spell watch out for your well-being, so… *chuckles* This is fun in its own way.
–
Solomon: In any case, I’ll make sure to get proper rest today. But you know, there are many more spells in this book that we haven’t tried yet. I’d like to read the books we bought today and visit that bookshop with you again.
Solomon: *eyes crinkle happily* There are still so many things I want to do, so I hope we can spend time together again once I’ve rested up. *fond head shake* There’s never a dull moment when I’m with you, Chise. *happy sparkles, smiling wide* I’m looking forward to it.
/end
––––– Route 2
Solomon: We hereby bid upon each other’s bond to manifest.
2. We hereby bid upon both of our bonds to manifest.
Solomon: *gasps in alarm* Chise, that’s not what the book sa—
*flash of white, bokeh lighting effect*
Solomon: *surprised* Huh? The spell is activating…
*room fills with black smoke, goofy music*
Solomon: *watches on, a bit perplexed* ...What on earth? *winces* The cookies have transformed into a whole roast headless dragon, and the honey turned into devil sauce. It must be because you said the incantation incorrectly.
2. A) I did that on purpose.
Solomon: *blinks* You did? *sighs, light teacher-mode scolding** There’s no telling what might happen if you mess up an incantation. Don’t be too reckless, okay? …*sheepish smile, doting chuckle* That said, I can relate to the feeling of wanting to find out.
2. B) It wasn’t supposed to turn out like this.
Solomon: *grimly* Well, I’m glad nothing dangerous like our tea party exploding happened. That said, the slightest change in wording can result in the spell manifesting in entirely unexpected ways. *rare little scolding of concern* As my apprentice, you should always be mindful of that, okay?
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Solomon: Well, I didn’t expect to get such a feast. *grimaces* This is way too much food for the two of us… And I bet we’ll get tired of eating just whole roast headless dragon if the only seasoning is devil sauce. *smiles* I know. Why don’t we invite Simeon and Luke? I’m sure they can think of different ways of eating this. *chuckles, eager* If we’re going to have a tea party, we might as well have fun until the end, right?
/end
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Text chat: Gather 'Round, Bookworms (from 34)
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Satan: Let’s go to the bookstore.
Levi: 🤨
Levi: I don’t mind, but…
Levi: Now? Why?
Satan: Solomon told me about this bookstore that’s holding a fascinating event.
Satan: I’d like to see what it’s like.
Levi: I don’t get why you’re inviting ME, though.
Satan: Evidently, the event is a curio book fair that revolves around rare and unusual books.
Satan: I thought you might be interested in that type of thing.
Levi: 😳
Levi: Just because I’m an otaku doesn’t mean I’m interested in ALL forms of sub-culture, you know.
Satan: Are you not coming along, then?
Levi: Oh, I’m coming all right.
Satan: 😆
Levi: 😉
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Text chat: The Search Continues (from Solomon)
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Solomon: I told Luke about the spell that strengthens your bond with your partner, and apparently…
Solomon: …the spells in “Demonic Methods to Deepen Connection and Build Stronger Relationships” are all minor ones for when you’re just starting out.
Solomon: That was when I remembered that Luke was the one who told me about the book in the first place.
Solomon: I’d completely forgotten about that.
Solomon: Anyway, I lent that book to Luke…
Solomon: …so let’s look for something with more powerful spells in it that we can do together next time.
We might as well try out a curse this time.
Solomon: 😳
Solomon: Did something happen?
Solomon: You can talk to me if you want to.
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2. No thanks. I just know it won’t end well.
Solomon: 😳
Solomon: It’ll be OK as long as we choose together.
Solomon: I’ll do my best to choose books with spells that are purely for enjoyment.
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3. Only if they’re not dangerous.
Solomon: I say we look for spells similar to the one we did, only more potent.
–
Solomon: I’d like to find a good book the next time we visit the bookstore.
Solomon: We should research what books are available beforehand.
Solomon: 👋
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NB exclusive text chat: Mephisto's Hidden Motives (from Asmo Night(4))
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Unearned.
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Wanderers’ Whereabouts: Kindness? Malice?
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Unearned.
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Wanderers’ Whereabouts: An Occasional Sweet Break
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Unearned.















