>>308442

Artemis 2011/06/01(Wed)23:08 No. 308449 ID: e6df26
File 130699490746.png - (105.42KB , 500x500 , 628.png )

Well... She is out of the king's grasp... And if I die I die. I'd rather go through all this stuff now then never do so and then die.

"Saisai, I'll be right back. I need to talk to her."

"... Whatever. I'm going back to the room."

Saisai walks away. Artemis is about to say something but decides not to. He goes up to Morgan and gives her a hug.

>"Heh. Mimi told me everything. I figured you would be worried about me so.. I decided this. It works for the both of us, you can try to save the world and I can make potions to fix you up."

"Thanks Morgan. But this is very dangerous, I could die."

>"Then I'll bring you back."

"... I."

"Master!!!"

Mimi pops out of her chest.

"I missed you so much!"

"Heh, I missed you to Mimi."

>"I already have some property here in the settlement, I'm sure you do to. Me and Mimi were actually working on crafting a contract you two could sign so if you don't mind I'm going to keep her for a bit longer."

"We're almost done!"

"That's okay with me, do you need any help setting up?"

>"Oh no, it's not much. You look tired and I don't want to wear you out anymore."

Man, I'm actually really happy to have these two back. I really missed them

no see, it's not that you could die, it's SHE could die.

Well this is certainly nice. Offer to help her move her stuff into her place. Try not to stay too long though just yet. We'll need to do some damage control with Saisai and it's better not to wait.

Oh and... Mimi told really her everything? Including what we used her love potion for? And Mimi certainly knows something about Saisais feelings. We'll need to check these things via note. It might matter.

>>308449
"Morgan, you have no idea how happy I am to see you, but... I've got enemies now, powerful ones. I'm going to have to defeat the king, and he's not even close to the most dangerous person out for my blood.

Until this is over we can't be more than friends. Even that much will make you a target, but the closer we are the more tempting it would be for them to attack you to get to me.

Don't wait on me; I want you to be happy, and having you wait for a day that may never come would break my heart. If you find love in a nice Dark Elf, then I'll bless your wedding."

>>308449
[100 GP to Mimi]

Watch this, Arty!

>>308458
[Agreed. 100GP]

Oh, Art? Give Mimi a futon and some pillows, sheets, and blankets. You can setup living quarters inside her space, which would be secure and safe.
Also? Once her bag gets large enough you can travel around using that instead of a tent - just hide her bag and go inside it.

I know Mimi would ADORE being able to snuggle up with people while they sleep.

While I agree that any 'damage control' with Saisai should happen soon, you should probably find out where this property that Morgan speaks of is. You also haven't seen her for a long time. Ask her what has been happening in the central kingdom.

Also, ask what sort of details the contract has, and what sort of details they are still sorting out. You (or we) may well have some ideas, and if this is a contract you will be signing, you should probably have some input.

So head to said property with Morgan and Mimi. Talk things out on the way. Also, it's been a long time since you've seen Mimi, and she's at least a friend. Give her a hello hug!

Also, show them your cool shield, and tell them about the new ability set you are planning on learning. Oh, and that your teacher is your half-sister, and she mentioned some kind of side-effect about the healing side of the abilities.

All good conversation points for getting caught up.

Also, yes. Give Mimi some GP. At least 40, and also your current mana reserves. Also, make sure that Mimi knows your shield is not for eating.

[would think 50 would be more then enough. burn all of it and what if w need it?]

>>308467
The beauty of GP is that we get it from anything that makes us need it.
So, yes, 100GP to Mimi, please.

Eh, I'm not -against- giving her GP, even a lot of it, but if we get into real trouble, I doubt we'll get enough in time to use a limit break if we give her 100. Mana is regained faster than GP, though, so unless we get attacked -right after giving it to her-, Art should have enough back to cast some spells.

I say [Give Mimi 60-75 GP, All Mana]

Also, even if you can't get into Mimi's box yet, giving her some things to make her more comfortable in there would be nice. If you can afford the futon and blanket and such.

I agree with the give Mimi 100 GP idea.

Also: Morgan knows the danger. She knows that both of you could die. She was smart enough to GTFO the capital. She is propably genre savvy enough to leave a phoenix feather for herself just in case. And she can fix you up quickly.

Not to mention you both have feelings for each other.

She is the match for you man.

>>308481
Do you know what it's like to see somebody you care about walk off, and not know if they'll return?
The worry, the fear, every little thing you did or didn't do, the horrible possibilities worming their way into your head to taunt you with what-ifs?
Even if things work out alright it's a traumatic experience, and you either grow numb to it or it builds up until you can't take the stress anymore.
Minerva hasn't come to terms with what happened to Sable. I expect that the cold reception she gave him at their last meeting combined with letting him go alone has left her wracked with guilt. Guilt that will only be assuaged by that not really be the last time they met.

Tell me, Art. How is your mother? How did she handle the loss of Sable?

Being Morgan's lover would not only put her at risk, but it would be subjecting her to one of the most hellish torments that life can offer.

Don't. Fucking. Do it.

>>308483
"Lover"? They've only been on a couple dates.
He's still sorting out his feelings.
Of course they shouldn't be "lovers" yet!

That doesn't mean he should avoid her like the plague and not try to sort out said feelings.

Talking, having meals together, and enjoying each-other's company is just fine. Especially since she's already helped him, and formed a great source of emotional support.

At the very least, Art should sort out his feelings for Morgain and Saisai.

>>308484
Lovers, boyfriend/girlfriend, 'romantic involvement', 'together', call it whatever you want but it needs to stop.

They can be friends (Cheront knows he needs as many of those as possible) but nothing beyond that.

Oh, and Art? I don't raise these issues for Saisai because they're irrelevant. She'd be completely screwed if she didn't go with you, she needs your help in order to even survive, she's almost as big a target as you, and she's not going to be subject to waiting in worry because she's going to be right by your side until the end.
(Honestly? If you and Saisai were together the only tangible differences would be more emotional intimacy, and more pronounced physical signs of affection.)

Argh. I'm trying to sleep so I don't become dumb like the rest of ya.

Seriously now, Artemis has enough balls to make his own decisions about girls. We're just to keep him alive so he can exercise that free will. Plus, we're only good at seduction and pick-up lines, not picking targets.

Right, Artemis? You're a man now, right?

>>308489

Look, I think we all know that whoever Artemis ends up with, he isn't going to be the person in the relationship wearing the pants.

Art has shown himself to be assertive when he needs to be, and to be far more skilled in relationship matters than a large number of guardians.

Also, no such thing as an "Auditor" Guardian. And way to be insulting there. "Good job".

>>308553
Does Artemis even own any pants? He wears robes all the time.

>>308641
Please review post
>>305426

Art is clearly wearing pants, both literally and metaphorically speaking.

GP:110 Artemis 2011/06/02(Thu)20:32 No. 308662 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130707196308.png - (113.09KB , 383x461 , 629.png )

Okay, hold on. Let's just clear something real quick.

You guys are the GUARDIANS not the Love Doctors. I think I have a say in my own relationships.
if you all do what my father handed you down to do which is to MAKE SURE I DON'T DIE then we won't have to worry about any heartache.

If we do go out and have a relationship and I or she dies yes we'll both be very sad but we will someday die anyway, we're not immortal. I think what matters is that we would at least enjoy the time we had together and not regret that we never took the chance. Cause I know if I died my last thoughts would be 'man, if only I'd at least had a girlfriend'.
I. Do. Not. Like. Saisai. She's a great friend but I don't like her like that. I'll be there for her and her best friend but if I had to choose between her and Morgan I'd pick Morgan. If it were between her and Mimi I'd pick Mimi!

Ugh...
Okay. I'm done. Just had to get that out.

"??? Artemis?"

Sorry to break this to you boss, but our power seems to increase as the strength of your relationships do. We also get entirely new powers from them. So really it IS our business. Not our decisions to make of course but at least hear us out on these things so they go better. Broken hearts cold feelings and forgotten friendships will only limit us, and could well spell your own doom.

True, some of us like Saisai more but so what, what matters is that you do well by her. Her heart needs much healing and care, and that needs to start with you.

Now then our GP is maxed out so give Mimi 50 points and then you can move on with helping Morgan. She seems confused, just tell her you're worried about some serious things.


Oh and make no mistake, it's good that you are showing some decisiveness here. A little more backbone will help keep us from making up solutions for you.

Okay. Feelings with Saisai sorted. Feelings with Morgan sorted. *mental image of a thumbs up*

Unlike some of the others, I just wanted to make sure you didn't leave things un-sorted. That's no good for anyone's survival.

So. You've got the girl you like. She's got you. I'm cool with that. Especially with all the emotional support involved. She seems concerned over your talking to us though, just so you know.

Now our GP is full, so you should go greet Mimi and power her up.

[Give Mimi 60-100 GP, Mana. Maybe also a hello hug?]

>>308662
Okay. Just remember, Art, we're here to help you in all endeavors.
If you wanna stay just friends with Saisai, we'll help you keep it that way.
You'll have to be careful though, she's a bit sweet on you, if it turns into unrequited love it could crush her.

>>308662

What is that I see there? Could it be? Yes, yes I think it is! It's a backbone!

>>308662
*claps*
YES! FINALLY!
Don't put up with our bullshit! GET MAD!
Your life is your own, and that means YOU get to call the shots!
I thought you would never grow a backbone!

But don't get pissed at Saisai because of us. Please?
She's hopelessly in love with you, and it's not hard to tell that you really do love her (albeit unsure if you could be in love with her or not).

Oh, also, our maximum power seems to have increased. Ombra thinks it grows with how intimate you are with people.
That would actually explain why Sable had so many lovers.

Anyway, I'd suggest explaining the situation with Saisai to Morgan, since she might be able to give you better advice. Who knows? Maybe the two of them will work something out.
Also, you should probably tell her you had sex with Mimi. She's familiar with demonic contracts and it was a life-and-death situation, so she should be understanding about it if you don't hide it from her.

Well done, good to see you *yawn* man up.
Now go and learn *yawn* all sorts of powers.
Maybe build an..ar..my. zzzz

I'm glad you finally made up your mind!

It's true that our power grows with the strength of your relationships. The question is if it can run on other feelings other than romantic love, such as trust and camaraderie. I personally think it can.

So, treasure your friendship with Saisai. Even if you don't love her "that way", you should be her supportive best friend. Maybe you should ask Morgan for advice on that matter.

Also our GP just topped up. Give Mimi about 60 of them as a welcome gift.

>>308680
Yes! Make us take the lemons back!
You're the man who's gonna burn down our house, with the lemons!

...Sorry, Art, I couldn't resist. You are not expected to understand this.

Well, I've never tried to meddle a lot with your love life, and friendship is still a vast enough source of power to us.

Still, be aware that whoever you choose it will probably give us a great boost in power, depending on how much you're willing to be with that person.

GP:110-60= 50 Artemis 2011/06/03(Fri)04:22 No. 308706 ID: e6df26
File 130710011828.png - (88.32KB , 500x500 , 630.png )

"Oh, sorry.. Just talking to my magical artifact."

"Oh.. Okay."

"Uhm... I have some time to spare, tell me more about what happened in central."

Artemis walks with Morgan and Mimi to her new store, only a few feet away from his current residence. As they walk Morgan explains how things have been pretty much the same in Central. No secret police patrolling, stepped up security. No one would notice anything odd. If not for Mimi she wouldn't have either.

"Oh! Speaking of Mimi."

Artemis transfers some of his GP to Mimi. She pops out of her chest.

>"Done! My body is fully upgraded! I can almost leave the chest now and it's the size of a small house in here now! Also Mimi can give master a small gift now!"

=New Guardian Ability Obtained, Cloak Item. GP Cost: 10 for Small Item, 15 for Medium Item, 20 for Large Item. Cloaked item is immune to scrying and only lasts as long as he in concentrating on it.=

>"I've been saving that for you~"

"Thanks Mimi. As soon as you guys are done working on the contract we'll sign it together."

>"Okay Master. I'll be sure to leave some blank spots for you to fill in~"

She smiles at him and goes back into her chest.

>"Time to explore a bit"

Artemis smiles.

"She's such a cheerful mimic. I'm sure it's because she has such a nice master."

"Heh, thanks. Hey Morgan, can I ask you something?"

GP:64 Artemis 2011/06/03(Fri)04:26 No. 308707 ID: e6df26
File 130710038572.png - (64.51KB , 500x500 , 631.png )

"What is it?"

Artemis explains his situation with Saisai.

"Ah. Hmm... Well Artemis if I were her I'd want you to explain that you want to be her friend. Don't plain shoot her down but don't lead her on either. Send her over here, I can try to be her friend to."

Same as what you guys were saying.

"Thanks Morgan."

"No problem. Please feel free to come by anytime. I need to take a nap."

She lays her head on the store counter.

"Heh, okay. Bye."

"Bye..

I love you..."

"Hmm?"

"Nothing."

She waves bye as Artemis leave.

That went well enough. Mimi looks so grown up now!

So... What do I say to my tigerfolk roommate?

>>308706
Don't say anything. If it's time for bed then walk in, cuddle with her, and go to sleep.
Otherwise, just hug her in silence.

Right now our plan is to make it so that your close friends can enter Mimi's space as well, and you'll actually have your living quarters in there. Once Mimi's bag is large enough for people to pass through it you'll be able to use it as an emergency escape.

Also, yea, it looks like one of the reasons Sable had so many lovers is because that's how we grow stronger.
Would you kindly inform Morgan of this fact the next time you see her? Also, that you had sex with Mimi?
With your newfound backbone we can't force you to do anything that makes you uncomfortable, but this really is something you need to discuss with Morgan. The stronger we are the more likely you are to survive, and since Morgan seems to really like Mimi she might be interested in including her in your relationship.
As a bonus, I'm pretty sure Demons are immortal so if you soul-bound with Mimi and Morgan then the three of you would be able to live forever.
Again, all I ask is that you talk to Morgan about this. Tell her we're badgering you into talking about it if it makes you feel better, but it's our job to keep you alive.

Hmm... If mimi is immortal... then we have an easy solution to Saisai's problem with using the time magicks, If you become immortal and share your life with her...

You might want to get in good with Ombra...

Also gaining lovers for power may seem soulless but you can actaully love still love all of them. It really means you have a valid reason for having many partners, considering you seem to play with most females you meet.

Of course you don't have to, but it will make things more difficult for you, remember you have powerful enemies...

>>308716

You. Stop that. He finally stood up to us and made up his mind. Don't nag him about any more crazy love life meddling. Not now, anyway.

>"I'll be sure to leave some blank spots for you to fill in~"

dude that is such an obvious pass a you.
anyway, saisai is in a rough position, she is big capital L in Love with you, saying you don't love her back could make her freak out and run off or something. let's wait until after or while you are being 'punished' so she is actively seeing you want to be her friend. also no matter what you will cuddle her to sleep tonight, hold her down if you have to. turn into a girl if you have to. for the body strength.

Oh great, not again.
Apologies in advance Artemis (yes, that's your name right?). The rotation has started..
Whenever the Auditor comes a whole bunch of us get woken up in turn..

Let's see, let's see...
Yeah, I guess you just gotta tell her 'I just wanna be friends'?

Just part of growing up I guess...
Ha, actually, if you're having troubles we can just turn you into a girl whenever you're around Saisai, that should keep her turned off.

Last resort though!

Actually now I'm curious as to whether you can do soul magic stuff in either form. Could be important!

I don't think you should try to bind Saisai's soul to Mimi's though. I don't think Mimi has a soul as much as she has a gaping void that sucks souls in.

Anything you are going to say will go over better along with foot massages and ear rubs. So get on that so maybe she can get a little less worked up when talking to her. As for what to say... you simply need to let her know you made your decision. You said it would be later but it wouldn't be fair to either of them to make them wait. She'll probably need a hug at this point. Tell her you are her friend and that you will do everything you can to help her live, heal and grow. And part of that is helping her open up to others. She can count your friends as hers, and needs to see about meeting guys.

But... Artemis, if Saisai needs help moving on from her bad experiences similar to how Mimi needed help completing her contract, you need to be ready for that. I'm not saying to offer, but she may very well ask it of you.

... get some blankets. One to sleep over and one under. See if you can find a second mattress too so you don't have to spread them on the floor.

Since we settled you are aiming at "good friends" (without benefits) then you should fix up the sleeping arrangement.

And yea, mimi is totally in love with you too. So that makes all 3 women in your life in love with you, you heartbreaker.

Well first thing's first. You already committed to foot and ear rubs. I'd recommend that you
[Give her a foot or ear rub/massage]
to help get her relaxed. It also means you're already holding onto her while you talk so she can't run away.

For whatever reason, she tends to run run away, and you need to hold on to finish your explanations. This just means you don't have to go grabbing.

As for what to tell her... probably something along these lines.

["Saisai. I really care about you, as one of my best friends. I want to be there for you, and help you through the tough times. You were one of the first people I met in the knights. We've been a team, and I want us to continue to be a team. That doesn't mean I want to be romantically involved. But I really do care about you. Can you accept my friendship?"]

And Art? Now that you're less mad at us, there's something you should know. We knew your Dad was going into trouble fighting that Shadow-dragon. We did our best to try to convince him to prepare... but he ignored us on a lot, and wound up putting us away before the fight. We tried to help him, but by then there was only so much we could do. I'm sorry.

Even if you get mad at us, when we're trying to help you survive, please don't ignore us, or put us away. We don't want the same thing to happen to you.

I agree with >>308728 that you should be honest with Saisai, but it's best to wait for the right moment.

You should start slow. Offer to fulfill your punishment as soon as you get to your room. While she is relaxing maybe ask her what's on her mind, how is she coping with the sudden changes in her life, if she has any plans for the future, etc. If she doesn't want to talk, don't pressure her, just tell her that you'll be there for her if she needs to get something off her chest. The idea is to let her know that you care about her.

If / when the conversation eventually shifts to her feelings for you, tell her you think of her more as your best friend than a romantic partner, but that she is still a very important part of your life.

whoa whoa whoa, slow down everybody.
Didn't Art already say to Saisai he'd have an answer for her after this was all over?

>>308870
yes, which is why I told him to tell morgan that too, but he decided he liked her too much to do that.

He was going to wait but Morgan showing up has forced the issue, it's one thing when she isn't around Artemis and especially around Saisai much but like this waiting just isn't fair to anyone. And besides, he made his decision.

Artemis 2011/06/03(Fri)20:02 No. 308936 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130715654078.png - (36.25KB , 318x476 , 632.png )

>>308737
I think I can. It's mostly manipulating my soul and it's always the same soul.. No reason I couldn't.

Also gaining powers based on relationships makes sense.. Sorta. Explain a bit about my father at least. But I'm certain sleeping with people wasn't really needed.

Artemis goes back to his room. Saisai is lying down in a curled up position.

"Welcome back."

"Hey. Came back as soon as possible. Ready for the massage?"

"I'm tired, just forget about it."

Ah.. She seems very upset..

>>308753

"So.. How're you feeling about all this? About leaving Central and stuff?"

"I said I'm tired, shut up."

".... Saisai I-"

"I said shut it."

Now would be a good time to drop it, be quiet and just get to sleep.

There's no way she'll be as [whatever] at you in the morning, sleep makes it very difficult.

>>308936
Lay down behind her, facing her back.
Get right up next to her.
Wrap your arms around her midsection.
Hold her tight.

This is known as spooning, and it's very reassuring for the person being held.

>>308936
You are the one person she managed to open up to, and she's closing you off right now. You cannot allow this because it's just going to tear her apart. Your reply to her request of you can only be one thing: "No."

You are going to push her, you have to talk with her and you are going to make her upset. This is a time when the person you care about has to deal with pain and face it and talk about things, and if she erupts in anger or collapses in tears that's just how it has to be. You just need to be here to put her back together.

Heart heart is weak enough and with Aeryr working against her holding this in will soon kill her. And in a way that no feather or limit break is ever going to fix. Hurt her a little now so that she can heal.

Yeah? But crying just before bedtime hurts more than crying in the morning, I'm pretty sure.

>>308945
She'll be less likely to run off if she's tired.

yeah it's a comfort thing not a sex thing. she is mad cause she thinks she LOST to morgan. she treated it like contest, and she lost. this is why i suggested polyamory. basically it isn't you with morgan and saisai, but they are also with eachother. is a bit of an exercise keeping them both happy but it is a LOT easier then then being separate.

anyway yeah she needs some emotional comfort, which physical contact is pretty good at giving, so yes slide up behind her and squeeze her tight.

Okay Art, you basically have two basic choices here. You can either respect her decision not to talk, in which case her current ire may not increase; or you can insist on talking it out, in which case she may get very angry, or even try to hit you, and if not handled well, might make things worse.

I recommend that you insist on talking this out with her if you can. Remember how mad Mimi was that one time, while still insisting everything was fine?

Still, you can't force her to talk. If you really can't get her to do so, then you should probably leave, and try to find other lodgings for the night, but let her know you still care.

Well, you seem to have a few main options that do not send the wrong message.

First, you can insist on talking it out, and try to keep her from shutting you out. This risks making her angrier, but at least she doesn't bottle it up inside. Tell her that bottling up her emotions can't be healthy, and that she has to deal with them. Tell her that you care. Tell her that you want to be there for her, as a friend. Tell her that Morgan wants to be her friend too.

Second, you can take a seat nearby, obviously not intending to sleep yet, and hope she speaks to you.

Third, you can respect her decision not to talk to you, as well as respecting the situation, and leave. Find other lodgings. Mimi is about as big as a house on the inside. You may be able to sleep in the chest now. Or Morgan may just be willing to put you up for the night. But if you go this rout, at least make sure to let her know that you still care for her as a friend on the way out.

Artemis 2011/06/04(Sat)23:45 No. 309166 ID: e6df26
File 130725632862.png - (49.84KB , 449x405 , 633.png )

"... Saisai I really think you should talk about your feelings."

"....."

Artemis waits a moment. She just stays quiet so he lays next to her. He wraps his arm around her waist. Artemis pushes him off the mattress and lays down again facing away from him.

"Don't touch me. Go hug up against that potion girl.."

"Huh?"

"You're a damn liar. You said you'd wait to give me an answer but it's obvious you like her more."

"Saisai.. I.."

"Don't lie to me. I can tell, I'm not as oblivious to things as you are. I.."

"??? What is it?"

"Why her? The girl looks like she's never even heard of a comb and I could probably beat her up without even breaking a sweat. She's not right for you.."

see, this is why i told you to tell morgan you wanted to wait as well, cause now saisai is calling you a liar cause you DID. you told her you would wait and with morgan not here that was an easy promise to keep, but when she showed up you broke it in half. saisai was fine with the promise cause it gave her hope for the future, that some day she could win your heart. she was, maybe still is, deeply in love with you and you seem to think ignoring it will make it go away, but it wont.
at least tell her honestly, what makes morgan so much better then saisai?

>>309166
"It's not about physical strength, Saisai.
I only realized I liked her after I came back from the dead; when she held me down and took my first kiss.
There was this intensity in her actions that made me feel special, like I was the only man in her world.
She accepts me, even as a girl.
But mostly? You guard your feelings with a thick shell of spikes, while she was open. I didn't even know you were interested in me until long after she claimed me.

Please, Saisai, would you at least talk to her? She's very reasonable; you might come to some sort of understanding."

>>309169
As an addendum to this, remember that if someone punches you, you can soul shield now!

Well, you're the one that picked Morgan. I could suggest reasons, but if they aren't your own, it doesn't mean much.

I do think you should tell Saisai what you see in Morgan. Saisai's been by your side on a lot of issues, and she's followed you on this quest, possibly at least in part based on her feelings. I think she deserves at least that, don't you?

>>309166
You could respond by asking: "Then who do you think is right for me?"

If you can get her to outright confess her feelings, then you can address them more directly.

I'm not going to try to assume your exact feelings about either of them, but here's some things that are true enough regardless.

"I was waiting because I thought I wouldn't be around her for a long time and people change, drift apart and grow closer. You especially are growing and changing now that you've broken free of what was holding you back. I really couldn't know what things would be like by then and making a decision would be meaningless. But with her here now it wouldn't be fair for either of you to keep on like this."

"Why her? I can't explain that well enough or let alone justify it. Something began unexpectedly and I'm going to see it through. A better question for you is this: why me? Is it because you know exactly who you are and what you want and I'm the best match for you... Or is it just that I've done so much and there is no one else you trust? Those aren't the right reasons and you know it. You need to get out and make friends and live it up. I know it's not easy to start but I'm here to help you. So is Morgan, she understands and wants to be your friend too.

"...By the way her hair just is like that. She had it straightened once then it suddenly poofed at the slightest bit of humidity. It's hilarious."

You know, there's another angle you could approach from. It's this thing called empathy.

Take her side, acknowledge her feelings.
* Agree. Her feelings about your betrayal are valid.
* Admit. You're not being fair here. You could have just said you weren't interested but you didn't.
* Apologise (last!). Just because you're inept, just because you didn't want to hurt her feelings, or just because you wanted to keep her safe for a moment doesn't justify what you did.

Of course, you have to be very careful with this approach and hit all the right lines at the right time. Letting her sidetrack your confession would be disastrous, you have to get to the apology part, AND you have to sound like you know what you're apologising for!

You can wax philosophy with her LATER if you want (like how it sucks that attraction isn't based on simple things like strength and skill), as long as you get this first bit out. Bulls*** like arguing with her is not going to help.

Not that you can leave it at that. You've got to make sure she's still fine with saving her own life (and that of the wind dragon). But there may be crying involved.. good luck.

Artemis 2011/06/05(Sun)19:11 No. 309392 ID: 899d92
File 130732627659.png - (37.56KB , 500x500 , 634.png )

"Saisai... You're right, I did lie.. I just.. I didn't want to say no to you. I know it was wrong and I'm sorry I really am. Morgan... It kinda just started off as an accident and I went with it. I like her because she's open and caring. It's hard to get close to you sometimes."

"... I.. It's hard for me to open up. I was never allowed to before. I'm the youngest child and the only one with these ears. Everything I said would just be shut down. I was put away whenever company came over and forced to act perfect when family was around. I've never had to be open.."

"I'm sorry Saisai.. I just like Morgan."

"But why not me? What's wrong with me? Is it my ears? My attitude? Just tell me why."

"There's nothing wrong with you Saisai. You're a great person just the way you are."

"..."

She doesn't say anything.

i think it's cause you think of her like a sister you never had, you fight and share secrets and stuff. but she had no one to support her at all so she fell for you hard, you didn't have that problem so you didn't fall for her the same way.

also joke with "well, maybe you could share, plenty of art to go around, haha."

>>309392
"She opened up to me first.
Look, err... If you want to be able to open up, then why not take a little truth serum?
Once you've done it once it won't be so hard to do in the future.
I could take some too, if it would make you more comfortable, but I understand if you don't trust me."

>>309392
"I mean it. You know that. But I understand if it takes a long time for you to feel that way about yourself. I'm here to help you get there. Morgan is too, and there will be many more who you haven't met yest. Allies, friends, and countless would be charmers who think they're awesome enough to deserve your love. And sooner or later one of them will be."

Well..close enough.
Anyway. Attraction doesn't follow simple logic, no matter how much Saisai wishes it does.

I get the feeling Saisai might want to rant (about how this is so unfair) at this point if you give her an opening, e.g. "It's not fair, is it?"
That would be referring to a lot of things
*She's escaped her family and that oppressive life, but that didn't fix everything
*She's lost her chance in the Knights
*She's now a target because she's got a Dragon inside (probably)
*She's gonna die because the Dragon is going to try to take over (probably) / have to get soulbound to a light elf (possible)
*And she's lost [or never had] a chance with you (and you were involved in a lot of the above!)
*AND she has to be around the girl that DOES have you (more or less)

Letting her rant about all that might well help, your job would be to nod and agree (and pay attention).
I know us male personalities usually want to suggest ways to fix things, but that's not the right way to listen.
I'd guess the risk of this action would be a MEDIUM risk.

If you need to, remind her that you're in this predicament together, and you won't abandon her. Don't insinuate that you think she would abandon you though! Haha! Just the thought..

Artemis 2011/06/05(Sun)20:46 No. 309417 ID: 899d92
File 130733197957.png - (47.00KB , 500x500 , 635.png )

No, no truth potion. I can already tell that'll go bad...

"well, maybe you could share, plenty of art to go around, haha."

She turns around

"I wouldn't mind.."

Well, it was nice knowing you kid. There's no saving you now.

there you have it, tell her straight up if she can convince morgan to share then you'll try balancing two girls at once. and maybe mimi, triple threat.

>>309417
Ooooh boy, this was not expected.
What the hell does one say to that sort of thing?
"um, ok?"

>>309417
This is good! You can use this to get her to talk things out with Morgan, and Morgan is far more understanding and skilled at this than we are.
Lean in and kiss Saisai on the forehead.
"I think you would need to work that out with Morgan, but you would need to be friends with her first.
Would you like to try, Saisai?"

>>309417
"...you've got it for me bad, don't you?"

Reach out and touch her face gently. Maybe rub an ear. She'll let you, and you need to show affection- if she really means that, then she's opening up here by showing just how much she cares about you, and you need to make sure that she knows you'll respond positively to that kind of thing. I wouldn't recommend kissing or hugging or anything similarly intimate, though.

"If that's really how you feel... you'd have to talk to Morgan about it. I care too much about you to promise something that might not be able to happen, or want to get into something that one of us can't handle. Be good friends with her, and I'm sure we'll be able to come up with a way that everyone's happy."

>>309414
Eheheh... uhm... well now. I'm not even going to tell you what to do here... but let's go over the pros and cons ok?

Positively, doing that for her would help her feel better about herself. And not in the way any old needy girl would, her one experience is a terrible pain for her and a better memory can do much to heal that. She had no control and cared nothing for him. She had sex but never made love. And doing this now before you and Morgan are really even anything means no cheating, no moment of weakness later for either of you.

Negatively, even if it isn't cheating it's almost certainly going to feel like it. Giving her a nice experience with someone she knows will probably never do so again. Not that you have said as much but there is no way Morgan would be ok with that, or you. It would be better if she was with someone else but when that would be and if that person can even handle what she needs. The main worry is things will be too awkward between the three of you afterward.

Overall it would be better for her and harder for you. If you do this, she has to at least agree only this once and never again. And that she'll not let it get in the way of her friendship with you or one with Morgan.

...And if you really are going to do this, lock the goddamn door.

>>309417
uhh

I- I don't even know where to start with you.

>>309427
she said SHARE not a one night stand.

>>309431
I addressed that, but let make it perfectly clear. I really really really don't think either Artemis or Morgan will stand for any sharing at all. It will either happen only right now, or never.

Artemis do *not* ask Morgan about sharing. There is no way in hell that can end well.

Wow, that was unexpected.

A big question is, are YOU okay with this? And most importantly, would Morgan agree to share?

I'm pretty sure Saisai's problem is that she has never been truly loved by no-one. All her life she has been treated as a freak and her feelings and opinions have been ignored. Maybe all she wants is to feel she is important to someone.

In short: she has huge self-esteem issues.

If you are okay with Saisai and Morgan sharing you, you should speak with Morgan about that.

If you don't like the idea, you should clear up any misunderstandings: "You know I was joking, right? I'm not sure how that would work out. Probably not very well". Then hug her and assure her that she matters a lot to you, just not as a romantic interest. Tell her that you'll try to help her in any way you can with her problems.

Also, tell her that there's nothing wrong with her, it's just that feelings and attraction don't follow logic.

>>309423
yes
>sharing
perfect solution! Love conquers all... Now we just need to convince morgan. absolutely no sex though (not anytime soon), it needs to be clear that all of you are sorting out your feelings, and that this is about love and not trying to get notches on your belt.

So we need to talk to morgan to convince her to at least try to get to know saisai better and try some double dating. She may end up liking it after all. and take both of them out on dates (both seperately and together).

>>309414
andherewego.png

... loverly. x.x

"... Really? Are you sure you wouldn't mind? Why... why not?"

Seriously, whether you're going to accept it, or dissuade her, you need to understand her reasoning behind it.

>>309420

What are you talking about, not expected? Art and we know that she's emotionally vulnerable. That's the perfect time to challenge a person's cultural indoctrination. Con-men, womanizers, religious recruiters, and brainwashers all know this.

This is also one of the more common ways contrived to institute a "harem" situation in various works.

Artemis 2011/06/06(Mon)00:29 No. 309482 ID: fe245e
File 130734533179.png - (43.36KB , 397x461 , 636.png )

>>309474
>>309446
"... No Saisai. That would be bad for both of you. You both deserve something better then that. I think you're just feeling really bad right now and I know when you think about it later you'll come to regret it."

Saisai blushes.

"I offer to share you with another girl and you say no!? What kind of man are you!?"

"Saisai you kno-"

"Get out! Just get out of here before I kill you!"

She throws a pillow at him. Before it hits Artemis puts up a soul shield and blocks it.

"Get out!"

Artemis leaves the room.

.... Sorry guys, there's no way I could've said yes to that.

>>309482
*facepalms so hard Art's face hurts*
Of COURSE you wouldn't do it!
The entire point of going along was so she'd be friendly with Morgan, and the idea would die on its own without you having to reject her!
Gah!

Go join Morgan for her nap, and talk to her about what happened. Don't spare the details, since Morgan's better at dealing with emotional stuff than any of us and she needs to know the details in order to help.

I like you better than Cecil already.

>>309482
While i respect your conviction to monogamy, you could have made that clear to her in a much more tactful manner then just a flat no!

>>309482
You did the right thing, but this is just going to make it harder to help her. She could deal with not being your one love but you turned down being a fuckbuddy, that's a double rejection. We can only hope she stays put and calms down a little instead of doing anything rash. We need to do something about her but I have little idea what more we can do. Throw potential boyfriends her way?

Nothing else to do right now though, so head to Morgans. Explain how things went down and therres no reason to hold anything back about it. Except maybe the weak joke that prompted Saisais offer, you can fail to mention that bit.

:I
Well, I don't blame you; there's no way you could be as wise as Sable was on relationships. Just try not to shatter what you have with Saisai. Remember that the less bonds you have, the more we become a useless piece of rock.

Well, that didn't go as well as could be hoped, but it went better than could be feared. I'm glad you didn't take advantage of her.

I agree that you should head over to Morgan's. It's already late, and you have training in the morning though. Morgan already seemed tired. You should seriously consider just telling her the general reason why you're there, that you had a fight with Saisai, and you don't think sleeping there is a good idea. Ask if you can stay over, and talk about it in the morning.

End of Chapter 9 Artemis 2011/06/06(Mon)04:08 No. 309499 ID: fe245e
File 130735853936.png - (10.67KB , 500x500 , 637.png )

You're right... I probably could have handled that better..

And who's Cecil?

Anyway I guess I'm crashing with Morgan..

Artemis walks over to Morgan's shop. He sees Eistia in front of the store.

"Good evening brother. I was just going to see the newcomer."

"Ah, you mean Morgan? I knew her from Central and I needed to talk to her."

"Oh? Very well, I shall save my questions for tomorrow. Before you go may I ask a favor?"

"Sure, what is it?"

"That amulet, may I borrow it?"

"Huh? Sure."

I'll see you later guys, thanks for the help.
And try not to kill my little sister.

"And he is such a lump! I mean what was that?
Now Saisai is probably run off and do something rash... Ah"

Greeting Sister of Artemis!

Good day Eistia. We've been tasked to kill you. How have you been?

Not. NOT to kill you. He's concerned we might get you into trouble, but I don't see why he's concerned. He's only died once with us and that turned out really well.

Hello there.
Is there something you needed us for?
Hopefully we can all be pleasant and helpful.

>>309503

His death wasn't even our fault that time, it was because he and his girlfriend were messing with mana infused potions.

>>309499

So sis, what do you need? Wanna talk about math? I love math!