Christémas Eve. The preparations for the Unholy Play were under way….
Doris was keenly observing the developments from the pews, along with her faithful lieutenant and literal partner-in-crime - indeed, it was none other than Reverend Eli.
Various arrangements had been made, including ramps, crumpets, scones, and tea, even safety rails, so that their aged congregation would be able to enjoy the day, even as they enjoyed the Play.
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In the meantime, the Dark Rizzards had finally decided on a diabolical direction.
"You do realise… Lazarus, that by threatening to destroy the Blueprint, that you leave us with no choice…
"Since we don't know whether or not you would destroy the Blueprint for real or not, and we can't risk it, we will just have to focus on more… reliable means to achieve our goal..."
Lazarus frowned. This was the drawback of his efficient methods - sometimes, it wouldn't account for, or have the capacity for complexity, or if the objectives or conditions were suddenly changed.
In other words, although he had obtained the result he had wanted with minimal effort, this result failed to account for the bigger picture consequences of what would likely happen if he chose that particular course of action.
Indeed.
"If you don't give us the Blueprint, then we would have no choice… but to focus on capturing Sally!"
"...(!!!) "
"Is that really what you, a member of the ARSES, can allow?"
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Sally in fact was also preparing herself for the upcoming battle. The download bar was almost complete.
With Empress helping out the rest of the ARSES, she would be able to make her way to safety with the crucial parts of the EVP Technology to continue the next part of the plot!
Well, that was the original plan, but after realising that this would involve leaving the ARSES in the lurch, she opted instead to do what she believed was the right thing.
That's right.
The Anti-Rizz Realm didn't like getting too involved in conflicts if they could help it - but when it came to protecting their own, then this was non-negotiable.
It was time to mount the counter-offensive.
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