Artemis 2011/05/16(Mon)13:47 No. 304574 ID: 9f0b5c
File 130557883250.png - (93.77KB , 1000x1000 , 590.png )

Artemis panics for a moment then realizes he's still bound from last night.

.... That was not a very comfortable sleep. I should've just slept on the floor.

He tries to wiggle around inside the covers to get out of it but the binds do not loosen.
He keeps squirming eventually loosing his blind.

In front of him he sees Saisai getting dressed, completely oblivious to him

wait until she is done then simply say "saisai, i'm awake"

>>304574
Look up so you aren't staring at the scar between her shoulder blades or where her tail used to be.
Also, so you aren't staring at her in a state of undress.
"Uhm... Little help?"

Now that's a sight to wake up to! Odd about that scar on her back and the other... wait did she have a tail before? Huh.

Anyways we had an interesting night with Ombra. We'll talk about it after you get comfortable. Just enjoy the view for now and relax.

"Uhm, good morning. Please remind me that I'd rather sleep on the floor if this happens again."
Also, we voices inside have... disturbing things to report about Ombra and the king.

>>304583
what? no we wouldn't. even if it's tied up snuggling with a girl is much better then being on the floor.

The King is the Earth dragon.

When he killed the guy with the crystal magic, did you have your sword out? If so, how far away were you?

>>304587
[no no no, don't say this until he is all the way up otherwise he could hurt himself in surprise.]

Hmm. She had her tail cut off?

GP:10 Artemis 2011/05/16(Mon)19:42 No. 304678 ID: 9f0b5c
File 130560015337.png - (99.39KB , 499x730 , 591.png )

>>304640
The scar looks really old. It probably happened years ago. That's still a shame though..

"Uhm... A little help here?"

"Oh, you're awake. One sec, I'm changing."

Artemis moves his head away from Saisai's direction and waits. She begins unbinding him.

"Hey Artemis."

"Hmm?"

"I had a dream last night... And.. I know it wasn't your fault I was kicked out. I'm sorry about being upset with you. It's just... It's been a bad day. Sorry."

"It's okay Saisai."

She finishes and takes off his blindfold.

"Don't get me wrong, I'm still a bit pissed off at you but that's nothing compared to how I feel about Regulus."

"I understand. So what was the dream?"

"N-nothing.. So, what do we do now?"

>>304678
"That is an excellent question. The first thing we should do is make sure our friends are secure - There's no doubt that Regulus has no compunctions about hurting innocents. Your family should protect you in a time like this. We should find a way to stay in touch, though... And I need to make sure Mimi is okay as well as Morgan. I think I'll find out who else has been subjected to this treatment and is alive."

>>304680
>Your family should protect you in a time like this.
Saisai's family are not her friends, mate. Don't even mention that she could go to them. They'd take care of her but they'd also crush her dreams and spirit.

Good point about tracking down friends and seeing if we can find other people that Regulus burned, though.

now we need to gather any allies we can and leave the city. you are probably not safe here anymore. nor saisai for that matter. in fact. assume everyone that is on good terms with you to be in danger. cause while we were wrong about the earth dragon being regulus we were right that he was working for him. the king is the earth dragon. ombra managed to do something that ate up our GP and she could manifest as a fairy sized version of herself and we spied on him. he has the earth symbol on his neck, normally covered by those cloth bands. he simply PRETENDED he was being threatened to throw us off, make regulus seem like a bad guy. but it turns out regulus has been following orders the whole time. but now we know something he doesn't know we know. and we need to milk it for all its worth. under cover of doing a public mission you and saisai can leave and set up a place to stay with the dark elves. try to find Minerva, she was in love with your father so she would be your best bet for help.

First off tell Saisai that there is no doubt Aeryr is possessing her. She can't tell that she's possessed but neither can you except for your alternate form. Which she also has. Then tell Aeryr to be patient until we can bring him back properly.

More importantly we have to give you two new information... relay this to Saisai as we describe this to you. Ombra learned a new trick by using up all our power for a little while. It wasn't permanent, but she got out and about in a small fairy like form and took the opportunity to spy out at the castle. She went to see the king. A window was open and he was talking to himself about how there were only a few dragons left...

Then he went on to say that he just had to have Regulus kill the fire and light dragons in order to shift all the power to humanity. But he has to figure out how to get the blade away from you first. We saw the mark of earth on his neck.

The king is Myli, and is the one behind everything that has happened. He is the real enemy.

Visit Kain, we need to talk to him about this and what to do next.

>>304678
First? Hug Saisai.
"You know I feel the same way."

We have new intel that radically alters our plans.
Which is to say that we now actually have a somewhat less nebulous thing to plan towards.

We need to talk to Sharaes, but she isn't going to be in fit shape to talk for a long time.

Ombra, could you tell us how to contact the Light dragon? We need to warn her what's going on and let the others know who the earth dragon really is.
As soon as he figures out that Art is taking the dragon blade and putting it out of his reach he'll move on to other ways to kill dragons, and that can't be allowed at any cost.
Actually, what to what race is the light dragon matron?

Alright dear Artemis, this one could be a bit of a shock so sit down first: Ombra did something reckless that could have killed you and broke free of you to manifest temporarily. While doing so she seems to have found that the King is actually the earth dragon. So don't go counting on her shadow shield working for a while, and we need to speed up research of how to grant her a new form before she does kill you by being such a total bitch of a moron.
So whisper the following in Saisai's ear,
"We should get in contact with everybody else that was dismissed for supposed disloyalty recently, and we need to go check out what's up with the dragon that's inhabiting me and double checking the theory that there is one living in you as well. Also, we need to find a way to protect this sword against theft or sabotage now that we have a better idea who the hidden earth dragon is. He will want to either use it or make sure I can't use it against him."

I'm not 100% sure here that the king actually IS the earth dragon, but it's a good enough assumption. We did see the mark but it's not as though other people can't have the elemental mark. But he definitely either is the earth dragon or a close servant, so either way it's about the same.

Anyway, it IS totally clear that he's actively plotting the downfall of the other dragons.
Also, HE WANTS YOUR SWORD. He outright SAID that.
I think we should probably get out of town. Out of the kingdom, even.

As for Aeryr... I think I missed something. When Saisai left the battle with Regulus, was she younger again? (I think that was what happened, but it was somewhat vague...) If so, then yeah, Aeryr is possessing her. If not, then Aeryr still might be somewhere else... but it's still likely with her.

That blue orb could be any number of things, though. Saisai? Shareas? The world?

[Mutes all people trying to tell Art what we discovered due to the serious risk of that information being READ FROM HIS MIND]

We don't know what powers Myli still has, and if he's even a fraction as skilled at mind-reading as Sharaes then telling Art ANYTHING would put him in serious danger. Don't forget that there ARE psychic knights, and it would hardly be unreasonable for the king to have one monitoring Art.

I'm normally all in favor of sharing information, but this is one of the few situations where even I admit it's a terrible idea.

>>304709
Lots of people wear the symbols of the elements, but not on their skin. It's exactly where it should be for the earth dragon. And yeah Saisai did turn into a kid again, that's why Artemis ended up carrying her to the inn.

>>304755
He needs to know, it will get him killed if he doesn't. We should also use discretion on who we tell because the risks are very real, but we need allies who know the situation or it's going to bite us in the ass. Even if we tell no one else Saisai specifically needs to know, being possessed means her life is on the line here too. Kain and everyone else we can keep in the dark on this.

Also, the king isn't going to scour our minds for information he doesn't think we have, not even addressing how hard that may or may not be. And even if he did know he'd especially not want telepaths with that information! They can share it with each other with very little chance of detection. Knights or not, he wouldn't risk it getting around at all.

GP: 15 Artemis 2011/05/18(Wed)09:58 No. 305029 ID: 9f0b5c
File 130573789077.png - (88.57KB , 600x631 , 592.png )

Artemis's eyes go wide. If he weren't sitting on the bed he might have collapsed.

The King is the Earth Dragon...?
But how? He was trying to help me.. He warned me not to kill anymore dragons.. Was it all a lie?

You guys haven't really lied to me before but.. No, I can't break down now.

If the king himself is the dragon and he wants my blade... We need to leave Central Kingdom. Soon.

"We should get in contact with everybody else that was dismissed for supposed disloyalty recently, and we need to go check out what's up with the dragon that's inhabiting me and double checking the theory that there is one living in you as well. Also, we need to find a way to protect this sword against theft or sabotage now that we have a better idea who the hidden earth dragon is. He will want to either use it or make sure I can't use it against him."

"Idiot. For the last time I'm fine. My body seems to still be messed up from the fight a bit but nothing I can't deal with. And we have no damn clue who the earth dragon is. And why do we even want to know? The only important thing is that we were kicked out of the knights for bullshit reasons and we need to do something about it. Maybe if the two of us teamed up we could take on the king or something."

Saisai grabs the remains of her spear.

"I think we would win if we worked together."

"no doubt we could, but regulus could then challenge us as soon as we win. and if we are weakened enough from the fight with the king he would just kill us. and if you can hear me Aeryr, knock it off or we'll have the dark elves figure out a way to remove you"

>>305029
There's a mirror in the room, right?
"You couldn't fight him. Since you don't look human he could just have other people take you down, then we'd both get arrested and executed for treason.
I have some ideas for what we could do now, but we need money so we'll have to check the job board.
Err... Were your eyes always pastel green?"

Ombra: Ok, what race does Light protect? We need to visit her. Now.
Wait, can the Dark Elves do something to protect Saisai's soul? If so we could go there next.

>>305029
Might as well tell her. Ombra did a little spying last night, she saw the mark on the king and heard him talking to himself about how he wanted that blade so he could kill the other dragons.

>>305052
No, because we are currently being spied on, and will continue to be spied on until we've reached a secure location.

We aren't saying anything we learned to anyone until it's safe.

>>305054
Vigilance means recognizing that the king may be watching us or having a psychic read our mind right now, but risk minimization alone can't win us a damn thing.
If we don't even tell our friends what's going on we have nothing against a king with a standing army. Seriously, if our friends don't know anything they can't do anything.
Public relations and reputation warfare means understanding that if we start acting suspicious that will give him excuses to escalate against us. He's just weakened himself a lot by tossing out a number of powerful people for questionable reasons, we need to make use of this. If we start saying, "Something is up but I can't tell you anything since it's a deep, dark secret," this will make our own friends suspicious of us and anybody who isn't our friend even more so.

>>304709
Good point about that sign on the king not necessarily meaning he is the earth dragon. Artemis: He has a sign on him which the earth dragon would have, but this may mean he is only the dragon's servant. My personal theory is that when the king performed that massive dismissal of apparently loyal knights this was the first act of the dragon after having replaced the king, but it's all theories based on fragmentary observations. We know the king is definitely plotting to take your sword and saw him apparently plotting to kill the other dragons.
We need you to be a lot less stupid, naive and clueless than your experiences with women indicate you are.

Let me refer to my post in ch8:
>>302204

Saisai needs to know, first and foremost, about the dragons. How artemis is possessed, think she is possessed, and how this will eventually be her death. Add info about king... we thought regulus is either the earth dragon or works for him and has the king under his thrall, now we think that either of them is either the earth dragon or its thrall (most likely king is dragon). Either way the kingdom is not safe for you, for your beloved mimic, for your dear and close friends, your girlfriend, etc... Make a big speech out of it (modify the above speech with newly learned info)... remember, we don't KNOW for a fact either is the earth dragon, but we have lots of evidence that they are working for it or are it; and even if not they are interested in the annihilation of all races other then purebred humans (so, essentially the nazies)

I say gather whomever you can, explain things to them, and all of you (don't forget your mimic) migrate to the dark elf lands.
You will expose yourself as the container and eventually reincarnation of the dragon of shadow, saisai as the dragon of wind, you will have the dragons of water, light and fire backing your claims. Gather the knights wrongly dismissed, be the "knights in exile". Plus artemis probably has a half sibling in those lands he should meet.

Long term goals:
1. Survive
2. Find a way for dragons to reincarnate without consuming you and saisai.
3. Remove the corruption from the knights and the kingdom; this probably means killing the dragon of earth and either freeing from mind control or replacing key individuals in the kingdom's rulership.
4. Fostering peace and love and unity and all that across the land...

I like this whole "path to polygamy" thing aretemis has... I approve! like father like son... and god was this so tempting to NOT be put in a spoiler so aretemis could see it :P

>>305160
((Yo, we only work with Sable and descendants. ))

>>305029
>Was it all a lie?
Yes. It was exactly that. He played you like a fiddle, even at the end when he told you to keep your blade handy around Regulus. So he could be sure to take it from you when he kicked your ass.

Now then you might have a hell of a time convincing Saisai that the king is the dragon, but you can ask her what if he is. Also you need to make it perfectly clear that the time magic she was hit with is impossible to undo without 100 years worth of time points and that the wind dragon is the only place her changes could have come from.

As to where to go from here? It would be good to see Morgan but she may not be back yet. Of course as long as Mimi is there you have a way to keep in touch with her... that said we need to think about writing up a new contract before we go gallivanting off all over the continent.

As for where to go and what to do, the dark elves are our best bet for anything useful considering dragons. And don't forget that you need to work on getting stronger, if you are going to challenge the king in any way shape or form you need to be far stronger than you are. Even if you can kill him with your blade you'd die to Regulus or whoever else is stronger than you. Luckily for now the king thinks you count him as not an enemy so he won't be hunting you down quite yet.

Artemis 2011/05/19(Thu)12:32 No. 305265 ID: 9f0b5c
File 130583353889.png - (157.60KB , 797x798 , 593.png )

I think you guys forgot that psions can't read someone's mind unless they allow it so my thoughts and others thoughts are safe.

I won't tell her though, there's no way she'd believe it just because I said it.

"It's not as simple as that Saisa. I have a dragon inside of me. If I die it dies and the world is thrown into even more chaos. And now that you have one as well we can't have either of us risking our lives so foolishly."

"So we just go hide and pretend this never happened?"

"No. We need to get other people like us. Others who were dismissed. The king can't suddenly just kill us all."

"And where do you propose we start? Cause I sure as hell don't know about all these people."

"Well there's Kain. I've gotten in contact with him and he'd probably be willing to help."

"That's one person Artemis. One. Does he have help as well?"

"Well no, he doesn't know anyone else wh-"

"Then screw that plan. We go around saying 'hey did anyone get kicked out of the knights?' then word will spread and it'll be are asses who are toasted. If you had like a list or something with names on it then that'd be better. Until then this plan is retarded."

"Well how about the Dark Elf forest? We could go there an-"

"And be killed for trespassing. And why the hell would we want to go there? What do we have to gain from them? Artemis, I want revenge. Screw all your plans of gathering people and dragons. My plan is simpler and easier to achieve."

"Again we could be killed ourselves."

"Then at least we went out swinging."

"There's more to think about then just ourselves."

Saisai slams her broken spear onto the table.

"God you're so frustrating! I'm asking for your help and you won't even consider this!"

"It's an option but it's not the best one. We need to retreat and regroup."

"Artemis everything you're saying hinges on the fact that everyone out there is like you! I don't want to run away! We need to strike now! And what if others simply don't want to fight!? They could have decent lives where they are! If we kill the king and then get killed ourselves then whatever! The world won't care, but at least this corrupt man! Maybe someone noble will be head of the knights. But if you take these people away from what they're doing now and stage a coup d'état then even more people will die then the two of us! The king still has the best of the best in his Knights including Psions, Mages, and others with even more amazing powers!"

"Saisai it's the best plan right now."

"Forget it! I'm done! Go build your stupid little army!"

She leaves the inn and slams the door behind her.

>>305265
Dammit, go get her. Tell her you're just trying to come up with ideas and you really need her help. Kain has been with the knights far longer than you both, you all need to get together and think about this.

god dammit, she is gonna get herself nearly, or all the way killed, again. stop her and tell her to think about what happens if you get killed. NOTHING happens to them. and the idea that we were the traitors the whole time becomes perfectly secured in their minds. and then the king kills the other dragons and everything goes to hell. we need to make moves other then attack.

>>305265
We would need to show you to the Dark Elves in order for them to be willing to help us, and the Dark Elves would be unwilling to take action against you.
It's not possible for us to make them keep you from murdering Art, but if that's something within their powers then they WOULD be able to save Saisai.
They could also probably make it so that you would survive even if Art dies, which would certainly advance your goals.
The Light Dragon is our best source for information on how to return you to a body of your own. You are working at cross-purposes by hindering our efforts to speak with her.
*gives a noogie*
Stop being stubborn, spiteful, and silly.

Run after her. Wrap your arms around her. Tell her that you can't lose her too.
Say that the king is holding all the cards, and defeating him requires careful planning.
Ask her to go with you to Kane's place for breakfast, and say that if you can't convince her not to fight the king so rashly by the time breakfast is over then you'll go and throw your life away with her.

>>305265
Surely you can tell us if the Dark Elves can do anything to protect Saisai's soul.
It's not like they would do anything to get in your way, and we would need to reveal your presence in order for them to even consider helping us.
Besides, if they can protect Saisai's soul then they might be able to find a way to let you and Art switch places on occasion. Or at least make it so that you wouldn't die if Art gets killed.

Go after her, put your arms around her, and say that you wouldn't be able to handle it if you lost her.

Artemis 2011/05/19(Thu)22:29 No. 305416 ID: e6df26
File 130586935718.png - (119.03KB , 744x673 , 594.png )

"Saisai wait!"

"What!?"

Artemis catches up to her.

"Please... I don't want you to die. I don't know what I'd do.."

"... I'm sorry Artemis. Now stop following me."

She walks away again.

"No!"

[i]Artemis reaches out to grab her. He stumbles and grabs at something.

"!!! You did not just.."

quickly step forward and wrap your other arm around her, pinning her arms and look her in the eyes. say "yes, i did just do that. now listen to me. we will have breakfast with kain and his wife and if after that you still think we should just kill the king, i will follow you, if not then..." and rub her ear.

>>305416
Quick! Put your arms around her!
"Wait! I know what we can do!
Masil, the light dragon! She can mold flesh like clay, and can bring the dead back to life. She was the one who trapped the earth dragon in human form and brought Maggie back after Thasti scorched her to death.
She can't refuse to help - not when her own life is on the line."

>>305420
Saisai wants ACTION. she wants us to DO THINGS, THINGS that will have EFFECTS. She is very much oriented on GETTING SHIT DONE, which is sadly, not what is needed right now. Right now GETTING SHIT DONE will kill us. Right now, if we want Saisai on our side, we need to make it LOOK LIKE we are GETTING SHIT DONE while in fact PROTECTING OUR ASSES.

So, this is a good idea. seconding it.

>>305416
Um... duck. "Not on purpose!" Don't let her pummel you but don't let her get away either, promise you'll find a way to get back at them that doesn't get either of you killed.

Alternatively:

Grab her other ear too and rub them both, then smile and say "Problem, Saisai?"

Artemis 2011/05/19(Thu)23:12 No. 305426 ID: e6df26
File 130587193051.png - (156.97KB , 649x777 , 595.png )

"yes, i did just do that. now listen to me. we will have breakfast with kain and his wife and if after that you still think we should just kill the king, i will follow you, if not then..."

Artemis rubs her ear.

"Okay okay! Just stop that!"

"How do I know you won't run away again?"

"I won't!"

Artemis pretends to let go making Saisai try to jump back and escape. He quickly grabs on again.

"Mya! Stop you idiot!"

"You're coming with me."

He starts dragging her to Kain's home.

"I swear when you let go you're dead!"

Artemis 2011/05/19(Thu)23:12 No. 305428 ID: e6df26
File 130587197864.png - (33.57KB , 571x799 , 596.png )

When they reach his home Artemis sees a hastily scrawled note on the door.

head to the public mission board and see if any go to or near talimere. take it and then go. make sure your sword is seen on you when you leave.

Whelp, drag her to the teleporter so you can see what's what. Don't be too rough on that ear though, grab the other one for a while.

>>305426
Keep rubbing her ear. Gently.
"Well, that's about where I was planning to go next, what with Masil being able to mold bodies like clay and get rid of things like, say, ears or tails. To the dragon statues we go!"

If she starts getting really pissed, then say
"Saisai, the king crushed a murderer into thin air with an angry look. You're frustrated, but you can't beat me and I can't beat him. I want to be by your side until the very end, and I want that end to be as far from now as possible."

>>305265
>I think you guys forgot that psions can't read someone's mind unless they allow it so my thoughts and others thoughts are safe.

We didn't forget, we're just very paranoid.

Do you feel any different when someone is reading your mind? If so, how do you know that the effect is genuine and not just misdirection on the part of the psion? And in either case, how do you know that what the psions say about needing consent to read minds is true?

Do you think psions would be allowed to make it past puberty if the world at large thought that they didn't need permission to read minds?

And do you think that the psions aren't smart enough to know the answer to that question?

Hedge your bets. Assume at least some of them can read minds at will, and are clever enough to perpetuate a lie that it requires consent. Even if they're actually telling the truth, your butt is covered.

... We still haven't checked on Morgan.

>>305442
Or Mimi. Or Apple. We're ABANDONING PEOPLE.

>>305445
very yes, we can't do that.

You could try to reason with saisai, does she really believe you are doing it the way you do out of cowardice?

Eh, Morgan is probably fine. She hasn't been on that feather foraging trip long and it may take some days. Mimi is just a note away at all time, and we can check on Morgan that way too. Apple... is more likely to find us than the other way around, I think. And we have other friends but we aren't going to do them any favors by bringing trouble their way right now.

Let's just check on Kain, and besides I don't think Saisai has ever hung out with catfolk before. Could be a good experience for her.

GP:22 Artemis 2011/05/21(Sat)22:42 No. 305879 ID: e6df26
File 130604296086.png - (107.65KB , 996x492 , 597.png )

>>305438
That... Is very true. I'll be sure to keep my defenses up..

Artemis keeps rubbing Saisai's soft ear

"Well, that's about where I was planning to go next, what with Masil being able to mold bodies like clay and get rid of things like, say, ears or tails. To the dragon statues we go!"

"N-no! We're taking on the king!"

He grabs her other ear and messes with it.

"Mya! N-no! Stop!"

"Not until you agree to go with me~"

"Fine fine fine! Just stop!"

He lets go half expecting her to run off. To his surprise she stands there, her ears moving up and down.
He smiles and leads her to the dragon shrine out of Central.

They place their hands on it and find themselves outside Talimere. There's a guard outside the city gate.

greet him and ask if a man named kain came this way.

>>305879
Walk past the guard. Wave and say "Good morning."

If they stop you then say:
"We're Saisai, and Artemis Dispo, here to visit Kayla ran Talimere and her companion, Kane."

Say, Art? What's Saisai's family name?

Artemis 2011/05/21(Sat)23:27 No. 305885 ID: e6df26
File 130604565833.png - (78.89KB , 439x597 , 598.png )

>>305882

Fai? Fall? Something with a Fa.

Artemis approaches the guard and introduces him and Saisai.

"Ah. Kain said you'd come. He says 'Sorry I can't meet you right now, rather busy getting settled into my new home' and that he 'got a hold of someone for you.' Please, enter."

The guard opens the door for then and speaks in a odd language at a lady on the other side. She smiles and once the two of them are within the city looks up at them

>"I know you've been seeking me."

>>305885
"Oh, hello Masil. Shall we talk over breakfast? We've much to discuss and decide."

... how? bluh, anyway thank her for coming to meet you. and follow her to whatever meeting spot she has set up. then explain about how the king is most likely myli or a close servant. and has a plan to kill all the dragons.

Masil! Greet her warmly but don't be too loud, ask her if Sharaes is faring any better. Now then we have lots of questions and such but first see about getting somewhere quiet to have breakfast.

Artemis 2011/05/22(Sun)00:51 No. 305892 ID: aca5e6
File 130605065908.png - (69.80KB , 595x600 , 599.png )

"Oh, hello Masil. Shall we talk over breakfast? We've much to discuss and decide."

"Indeed we do. I've already prepared a spot for us."

Masil leads the two of them to a nearby building. Inside Artemis can smell alchohol. The place is crowded and a bit noisy.

"I think I know why you seek me but I've learned that people enjoy conversation. Please, ask me anything."

>>305892
"By 'people' do you include yourself?
The bullet points first, then.
First: We knew Myli was the one having his siblings killed, but last night Ombra discovered he's the king.

Second: Even without the slayer, Myli's position affords him enough power to seriously threaten his siblings' lives.

Third: Only humans can be a knight or a king, and that's determined by appearance.

Fourth: Aeryr is aggressively attempting to devour Saisai's soul to take over her body, while Ombra is taking a more leisurely pace with mine.

These are things you need to know even if you choose not to help us, since you need to protect yourself and keep the others out of danger.

There are a few things that would help us if you can and would do them:

1: Help us find a way to properly bring Ombra and Aeryr back to life. If not in dragon bodies then at least in bodies not taken from another person.

2: Help Ombra and I work out a sharing solution where she gets to spend some time at the helm. Sadly, I think it would be unwise to provide Aeryr the same courtesy.

3: Stop or slow the damage being done to Saisai's soul.

4: As much as I would miss it, alter Saisai to appear fully human so she can rejoin the knights.

5: Alter Myli so that he is incapable of passing for human.

6: Teach me healing magic.

7: Grant me some means by which I can communicate with you and your siblings so I can forewarn you of danger and seek advice for important issues."

Sigh.

"With that all on the table, but before we start any serious discussion... How is Sharaes doing? Did you manage to save enough merfolk to stabilize her? Are they going to be ok?"

>>305892
"By 'people' do you include yourself?
The bullet points first, then.
First: We knew Myli was the one having his siblings killed, but last night Ombra discovered he's the king.

Second: Even without the slayer, Myli's position affords him enough power to seriously threaten his siblings' lives.

Third: Only humans can be a knight or a king, and that's determined by appearance.

Fourth: Aeryr is aggressively attempting to devour Saisai's soul to take over her body, while Ombra is taking a more leisurely pace with mine.

These are things you need to know even if you choose not to help us, since you need to protect yourself and keep the others out of danger.

There are a few things that would help us if you can and would do them:

1: Help us find a way to properly bring Ombra and Aeryr back to life. If not in dragon bodies then at least in bodies not taken from another person.

2: Help Ombra and I work out a sharing solution where she gets to spend some time at the helm. Sadly, I think it would be unwise to provide Aeryr the same courtesy.

3: Stop or slow the damage being done to Saisai's soul.

4: As much as I would miss it, alter Saisai to appear fully human so she can rejoin the knights.

5: Alter Myli so that he is incapable of passing for human.

6: Teach me healing magic.

7: Grant me some means by which I can communicate with you and your siblings so I can forewarn you of danger and seek advice for important issues."

Sigh.

"With that all on the table, but before we start any serious discussion... How is Sharaes doing? Did you manage to save enough merfolk to stabilize her? Are they going to be ok?"

1. Reveal Myli's identity as the human king.
2. Confirm that he's plotting to kill all of the Elemental dragons.
3. Note that he's throwing people who might empathise with other races out of the Knights. That might indicate thet he is planning on embarking on a conquest of all the other races.
Finally, ask for any help she or her people might provide to stop Myli's plans.

Note that the identification of Myli as the human king has not yet been fully confirmed and was made based on observation of his plotting the deaths of other dragons and distinguishing mark.

Ok let's break this down into general subjects.

-Sharaes and the merfolk, how bad is the damage still? Is she awake and stable? Are there enough who escaped so the species can continue? Can more be created as Sharaes first did?

-Bringing back dragons, how to have the reborn without subverting a host or even better how to do it in a draconic form.

-What can be done about the earth dragon besides killing him. He is as much or even more dangerous in human form since he acts behind the scenes. Don't need to outright say he is the king but don't be afraid to strongly imply it.

-Altering Saisai so she is physically human. This is something she can almost certainly do, the question here is if Saisai wants to. Let her take control of the discussion here.

-On the matter of bringing back the dead with feathers, not really a lot to ask except for her thoughts on the matter. They may be something important we can't guess at.

Whoa calm down! This isn't about wanting to kill a dragon because we just want to. This damn blade is only meant to be used to prevent the shit Myli is doing, like when he got you killed. It's completely unfair that you're stuck in the back of some kids head instead of him. You can't tell me you aren't just a little pissed about that. Now it doesn't matter to us if we leave him being disembodied, dethroned or draconic, whatever works. But we need to stop him one way or another, but I thought you'd appreciate getting back at him. Sorry to have offended you.

I would recommend to saisai that she does not get drastic body modifications... her ears are cute, they are a part of her, and removing them isn't gonna get her back into the knights.

>>305995
That's the thing though, she was born with them and all the trouble it came with. With this we are giving her a choice and if she turns it down she won't just still have them but be ok with having them.

Artemis 2011/05/22(Sun)16:33 No. 306039 ID: 2b504b
File 130610722077.png - (99.51KB , 818x846 , 600.png )

----------------------------------------------
"You still talk a lot.. Anyway Sharaes is fine for the most part. Her and her species will never be the same but they're not dead. In the end that is what matters most.
Now on to things I can actually do. Yes, I can fix your friend up if she so desires."

>"Actually.. I want to keep my ears. And if possible I want my tail back as well."

"Oh? Interesting. Consider it done. It is simple enough and within my powers.
Now for things I refuse to/can't do. I can not do anything about Myli, the earth dragon and king of humans. It is not my job to do anything about that, that falls upon whoever has the dragon slayer. He is the human who is meant to bring a balance to things. And just so you know balance does not mean killing him..
I also can not change his form anymore. With the death of my siblings he's grown more powerful and with my even more recent mass revival and healing spells I am severely weakened. I need rest.
I also can not teach you magic, your head would explode if you even began to grasp the basics of my powers. They extend far beyond simple mana..
I also can not help you with your little dragon parasite problem. Well, I -could- kill them but that wouldn't be very nice.
No, the only ones who can help are their people, the Light and Dark Elves. The two of you must live among them and learn from them. By mastering their powers you can free yourself and the dragon."

>"But I'm no-"

"Denial will not help. Now, even this is risky. It may end up just killing you if you mess up or kill just the dragon. Either way someone wins.
I'm sorry that I can't be of more help to you but at least I can give her back her tail. That's good enough, right?"

sigh, it isn't much but we'll take it. thank her for her time.

Getting her tail back to her is better than a kick in the teeth, we should be thankful. Also, someone else confirming to Ms. Denial that she's carrying a dragon inside and thinking otherwise is just stupid and crazy may help us steer her better, at least until the next time one of these brain donors decides to believe something else stupid or try something else dangerous and useless.
No wait, Saisai still wants to be turned into a fine spray of fur and chunks by Myli and Ombra has served notice she'll do anything she works into that tiny little brain of hers might make her freer for a second and damn the consequences even if it kills her, my mistake.

>>306039
"Thank you, Masil.
I suppose that leaves communication. How can I warn you if there is a problem, like Myli moving against you or your people?"
Turn to Saisai.
"Sorry I couldn't tell you until we were out of the king's reach, Saisai; that's why I couldn't let you fight him."

>>306039
"We appreciate that, but it's the knowledge that is really valuable. Thank you. But now that we know we need learn magic from the elves, I have a few more questions. Do you have advice on how to approach them? Especially the light elves. We met a light elf who has a dark elf lover, could they alone teach us well enough? And how is Saisai going to wield the magic without a centuries long lifespan behind her?"

Artemis 2011/05/22(Sun)19:00 No. 306090 ID: 2b504b
File 130611601915.png - (126.44KB , 818x579 , 601.png )

Saisai looks like she's deep in thought. I think she realizes I just saved her life.

"We appreciate that, but it's the knowledge that is really valuable. Thank you. But now that we know we need learn magic from the elves, I have a few more questions. Do you have advice on how to approach them? Especially the light elves. We met a light elf who has a dark elf lover, could they alone teach us well enough? And how is Saisai going to wield the magic without a centuries long lifespan behind her?"

"I myself know nothing of this couple. They are beyond my domain so I paid them no heed. You would need to find them on your own. As for your other question... If Aeryr decides to kill her before she masters time magic, which can take years as opposed to Soul Magic then she will die. There is no way to speed up the process except... No that's highly unadvised."

Saisai's ears perk up

>"What is it?"

"You can Soul Bind to a Light Elf. It is not common knowledge but Light Elves and Dark Elves do share that single spell. The Light Elf Soul Bind only differs in that they use Time Magic to bind the two people together for eternity. You would share their lifespan and thus gain the points needed to cast and master time magic. But again this is extremely unlikely and probably not good for you two."

>"What do you mean?"

"It's obvious you have feelings for this man. I didn't want to reveal this method because it may make him jealous."

>"!!! W-what!? I don't have any feelings for him!"

"Oh. Sorry, maybe I shouldn't have said that. My apologies. Anyway those are your options. You Artemis have quite a few more open since Soul Magic isn't as time intensive."

>>306090
Hug Saisai
"Shh... It's ok."
Turn back to Masil
"I suppose she can't steal time from Aeryr. Pity.
Soul binds are limited to two people, then?"

Also, you haven't asked her about a means of communicating with dragons from anywhere.
I can't stress how vital that capability is to the continued survival of the dragons; the LACK of communication with the dragon slayer's holder is what caused these problems in the first place, and it's becoming more and more apparent that your position SHOULD be a diplomat and arbiter of disputes.

>>306092
Clearly, a yearly meeting of DRAGON PARLIAMENT is the only option. :|

would a bind with an old dark elf work as well? also is it like the dark elf version and has permanent and temporary versions or does it need to go all the way in one cast?

Artemis 2011/05/22(Sun)20:25 No. 306100 ID: 2b504b
File 130612111909.png - (259.05KB , 487x967 , 602.png )

"So it -has- to be between her and a Light Elf?"

"Yes. That is the only way."

"I see. Well thank you for your time Masil. Also is there anyway we can contact you or another dragon?"

"Only a full dragon can mentally contact another. As for me personally I'll be watching over you a bit in my free time so if you need me just call. I might be there. Goodbye."

She vanishes, the inn vanishes with her. Artemis looks around stunned and sees he's simply sitting on a old stone bench next to Saisai.

>"... Show off. So what the hell do we do now..? We can't kill the king.. I don't think we ever can.. And this soul binding thing sounds like elf marriage to me. I don't wanna marry a freakin light elf."

"well, we'll see. maybe we can get a temp one? just need to get more info to find that out. let's see if we can find kain now while we are here. then head back to central and check on morgan's house. actually, write a note to mimi now if morgan is back.

"We don't really know what the limits of time magic are and maybe Masil doesn't either. Perhaps we could convince an elf to somehow transfer points to you or make you able to cast using their points? It's in their interest to regain their dragon as soon and as much as they can and that probably works best with that dragon safely escaped into a ready body or another light elf. If there are ways to bend or break the rules they have all the reason in the world to find them."

Ok boss, you don't want to deal with this and no one in there right mind would, but here it is, you're both alone and it damn well matters.

"Saisai about what she said... it's ok, I'm the first person you've opened up to so of course your feelings will be complicated. Don't worry about whatever relationships you or I get in just do whatever you have to. I'm always your friend and I'll have your back. But honestly I think marriage is less hassle than this soul bind thing. If they say eternal they mean it. But hey perhaps you'll find out Mr Right is really a light elf."

"Maybe Aeryr can be useful instead of making things harder. Hey I know you can hear me in there! If you want your true body back work with and not against us."

What you two do now is go back and get your affairs in order and then get ready to take some trips. I have to make a new contract for Mimi and work out something concerning Morgan. Saisai was also going to meet her dad so ask about that.

look saisai in the eyes and tell her how obvious her feelings are. she is loud and crazy but you like that about her.

>>306107
say this part
"But hey perhaps you'll find out Mr Right is really a light elf."
in a joking tone and nudge her with your elbow too. makes it obvious you are messing with her.

>>306100
"Lets worry about things one at a time. Our first step is to find a light elf and a dark elf so we can start on saving our own lives."
Pull her into a tight.
"I'm not going to let anyone or anything force you into a marriage. If it's like that, then I'll find another way."
Start gently scratching behind her ears
"So, why did you decide to stay like this?"

Artemis 2011/05/23(Mon)01:18 No. 306164 ID: e6df26
File 130613869506.png - (92.72KB , 447x597 , 603.png )

"Saisai about what she said... it's ok, I'm the first person you've opened up to so of course your feelings will be complicated. Don't worry about whatever relationships you or I get in just do whatever you have to. I'm always your friend and I'll have your back. But honestly I think marriage is less hassle than this soul bind thing. If they say eternal they mean it. But hey perhaps you'll find out Mr Right is really a light elf."

He lightly ribs her with that last line letting her know it was a joke.

"Sure.. I've learned many things in my life, Time Magic can't be so hard. I doubt I'll have to bind to anyone. Then with that maybe we can kill the king..."

"Lets worry about things one at a time. Our first step is to find a light elf and a dark elf so we can start on saving our own lives."

"Right.."

Artemis notices a tail moving behind Saisai. It seems Masil restored it before she left.

Artemis grins and starts sratching behind Saisai's ear. She tenses up at first but soon relaxes, almost leaning against him.

Her ears are so cute and soft. I think I see a smile.

"So why'd you choose to stay like this?"

"... I like how this feels. That's it."

She closes her eyes enjoying the feeling.

>>306164
Keep doing it! :3c

>>306164
Ok. Keep your hand there doing that.
"I like how this feels, too.

Well, we have a few things to do and a few options.
We need a base of operations, we need to get our things out of central, and we need to find some elves.
We could try to find lodging here, or we could ask around for leads on a more mixed-race settlement.

There's a small chance some kind of elf is in this town. Barring that or a mixed-race settlement we would need to visit their lands.
The light elves would probably kill us on sight if we showed up like this, so I think we should hold off on visiting their them until we have a guide.
The Dark Elves are pretty easy-going so it wouldn't be that dangerous to head there, and their lands are the closest to the mixed-elf couple.

I could have Mimi pass Morgan a message asking her to give Mimi our things. Mimi will have to stay there until we have a place to stay."
Grin at her
"Or we could just stay here and cuddle."

Pink eyes? ...She has Light Elf emotional tells now. I doubt she's going to like that much. Especially since I seem to remember pink meaning love... Artemis, look at her, think of Morgan, and imagine one or both being very upset with you about the other. Neither is your girlfriend but both are too close to it right now. I'm not going to tell you who is better for you, but Morgan is who you need to talk to first.

Write Mimi a note. Ask her how she is doing and if Morgan is back yet. Then small talk with Saisai a bit about her new tail and the story there. I wonder if it's awkward or if her balance is better now.

Well, they are very cute.

Artemis... what are your views on polygamy?

just cuddle for a while and see about grabbing and stroking her tail.

>>306213
inb4 Morgan walks in and sees Artemis doing this :D

suggestions: Write a note to Mimi, ask how she feels/if Morgan returned/how is that guy behind the counter etc.

>>306215
funny, but you are in the middle of, well, a park. That being said, it is a rather exposed location.

Soul-binding sounds different than marriage, its a very deep and intimate bond, yes. But might not be limited to marriage. Perhaps all married light elves do that, perhaps most, perhaps only a rare few. It is possible that certain individuals can have it as a bond of "sisterhood" with a very close friend. And that is just the shortcut to mastery without spending many years... perhaps the wind dragon is more patient and willing a wait a few decades as long as the others are assisting it in guarding its race.

Is there any known city where there is a sizable population of both dark and light elves? That would be an ideal place to be... alternatively, the travel stones DO allow 3 trips a day per person so its not like you have to be cut off from each other even if you do live far apart. And it sounds like seperating from Ombra will be much quicker.

I wonder, how long ago was it that the king was switched for the earth dragon... at his birth? later?

Since killing the earth dragon will not bring balance, the goals should be containment. Make allies, act to contain human aggression and prevent race based war. Communicate with him via missive saying that dragons, once killed, do not stay dead. And once the others are revived that light dragon will be willing to lift his curse and allow him to assume his true form again.

Artemis 2011/05/23(Mon)23:56 No. 306403 ID: 9304bd
File 130622020244.png - (78.10KB , 613x803 , 604.png )

>>306189
Huh? Polygamy? Uhm.. I don't know. Against it..? I wouldn't want my future wife to have a bunch of others.

>>306271
I don't think there's such a place. Light elves don't really like anyone other then light elves, especially their dark skinned cousins. Though you're right that we will only be a short teleport away from one another.

>>306171
Why would she be mad? We're not really doing anything, just scratching her ear a bit. Who wouldn't do that?

Artemis writes Mimi a quick note asking if Morgan is back.
He keeps scratching behind Saisai's ear.

"Man... After constantly keeping these things under a hat for years this is heaven.."

"Hey Saisai.. Why did you cut off your tail?"

"Oh... That wasn't me. When I was 15 my father cut it off himself. He said there was no way to hide it and it needed to go. Hurt like hell and walking was torture after it. Took me months to get used to it. Probably take me a bit to get used to it now. I only protected my ears because I made that hat. It was pretty crude but it covered my ears. The feather is the only aesthetic bit really, the rest is functional."

She stares off into the park.

"Before I'd joined the knights I'd only went out once before. I saw a bright red bird flying through the sky and it dropped that feather. I've had it ever since. That's why I was so mad when Apple took it from me...
Hey, Artemis."

"Hmm?"

"How do you feel about me?"

that voice ment Polyamory.
anyway say
"you are very special to me, i'm not sure what i would do with myself if i lost you"

>>306403
Hug her!
"I really, really like you, and I want you to be my partner no matter what fate has in store. You have no idea how often I have the urge to wrap my arms around you and never let go."

The light elves are going to pose a problem. However, we can save time by first recruiting the Dark Elves to help. Light Elves have to at least respect diplomats, and that would get us close enough to plead our case.

I really hope that mixed-elf couple is in the dark elf lands That would save us so much time and effort.

"Well that depends, who do you mean? I knew a knight who I was scared for and protective of. I've just met a girl who I am proud of and want to help however I can. And then there is the warrior strong of body and heart who has overcome every challenge to become her own person. We haven't met but I think I'll really like her."

>>306406
This.

>>306407
WHat happened to Morgan?

Pick a girl, Artemis! It isn't our decision to make!

Girls can get really jealous really easily. And when they get mad things can go bad quickly. So it might seem as an innocent act to you but it might not necesarily mean the same for her.

>>306406
Saying that would probably be the best course of action.

Also: Choose a girl man! We can't do it for you. Decide which one do you want to meet ( or both of them if you want to :P) and we'll help you as best as we can. But we can't make that choice for you bro.

I would say got for Saisai. Artemis say this," I am starting to fall for you slightly and I think you are a good friend to have aorund. It's still early days but I do really like you and if you want to go further with this then I would be happy to do so. Then hold her hand just smile.

Artemis if you really like her just be there for her and talk to her. That's all you need, take your time with it.

>>306415
Would you be able to resist giving the slayer to the king if he, say, decided to slowly skin Morgan alive until you handed it over?
As long as Morgan is in central the king is capable of using her to coerce you into doing things, but if you break things off with her then she's little more useful in that role than a random person off the street.
Her entire life is in Central. Asking her to give everything up to go with you would be a completely horrible thing to do.

Saisai on the other hand has nothing left that you could endanger, aside from her heart. She could have done many things to protect herself or recover from this, but she chose you.

Morgan is a girl who has been withdrawn and lonely, and you came along with a little flirt and she opened up and fell for you. What's there is small and new but can grow fine. She is someone you can be perfectly happy with. But you have to go and spend who knows how long frolicking with elves, and if you keep coming back to central to see her before long you'll find her being held hostage by Regulus for your sword.

Saisai now, she's had a much worse time than Morgan. She hasn't had friends or gone out or done anything for her entire life. She needed and still needs you, but she also has to be herself for once. Even if you wanted her and Morgan wasn't involved at all it still wouldn't be healthy for her to become completely dependent on you.

Now my concern? You don't want to break either heart. They both need to wait.

>>306487
Yes this. And also, learn your father's skills, if you're doing it right you don't have to ever choose aside from which one you're with at a given time.

GP:47 Artemis 2011/05/24(Tue)23:42 No. 306581 ID: e6df26
File 130630575173.png - (77.89KB , 613x803 , 605.png )

I do like Saisai but I really don't like her like that. I understand that seeing Morgan right now would be difficult but I think I can wait. It would be unfair to suddenly start romancing Saisai just because I need to train for a bit.

"you are very special to me, i'm not sure what i would do with myself if i lost you"

"Oh.. Well you're special to me to."

The way she says that.. It's like that isn't the answer she was hoping for.

"That girl you were talking about.. The potion maker, Morgan. Are you two a couple or something?"

"Ah.. Well.. Uhm..."

what should I say...? Again I don't wanna lead her on or anything. Even if it's something my dad would have done!

we can be truthful with this without upsetting her.
"no, thinking about it, but no, she's a good person and unlike my father don't sleep with every girl that bats her eyes my way. which brings me to the other reason i kinda want to go see the dark elves, i may have a half sibling there."

>>306581
You haven't decided and you're not a playboy.

also you are gonna need to talk to morgan and give her the low down on what is up. she can break it off, run away with you or try the super risky long distance relationship right under the king's nose. i do not recommend number 3 at all.

>>306581
You need to let her down easy, then, and smooth things over.

"Sorta, but not really. I don't know where we stand. We haven't done anything serious and I don't know what she thinks, but I wouldn't feel right about going after somebody else without talking to her first.
Honestly, I don't really feel 'that way' towards anybody right now. My world view is shattered and having the fate of the world on my shoulders isn't making things easy.

I'm not rejecting you, Saisai, but you asked a question I'm in no state to answer."

Walk with her to the dragon shrine, then teleport to the Dark Elf lands. We'll start there.

Artemis 2011/05/25(Wed)00:56 No. 306592 ID: e6df26
File 130631019456.png - (78.37KB , 613x803 , 606.png )

"Sorta, but not really. I don't know where we stand. We haven't done anything serious and I don't know what she thinks, but I wouldn't feel right about going after somebody else without talking to her first. Honestly, I don't really feel 'that way' towards anybody right now. I'm not rejecting you, Saisai, but you asked a question I'm in no state to answer."

"Yeah you're right.. We're both in a serious situation. It was stupid of me to bring this up, just forget I mentioned it.. Anyway you ready? I think we should go see the dark elves first. Well, first we need to grab our things.. Or maybe the light elves?"

"hey hey, don't be sad now, i'm just trying to NOT be like my father, who apparently slept around a lot and broke hearts everywhere he went. anyway yeah dark elves sounds as good a place as any"

>>306592
"No, not stupid. Stupid would have been keeping your feelings bottled up inside. I'm honored you're interested in me, Saisai, and when this is over I'll have a real answer for you."
Send Mimi a note asking her to ask to have somebody get your things and hand them to her. Paying for a courier to get them is acceptable.

Dark Elves it is! Off we go!

>>306592
"The dark elves may be the most helpful to start off with, for both of us. They're less likely to try kill us on sight anyway. I'll need some time to prepare, since I kinda dumped off Mimi at Morgan's without even talking to her I need to sort that out too. What about your dad, are we still going to have to deal with him?"

Give her a hug and say "We both have a long way to go and you've come much further than me from where we've started. You'll be ok."

Artemis 2011/05/25(Wed)01:47 No. 306598 ID: e6df26
File 130631325602.png - (238.71KB , 1000x984 , 607.png )

"No, not stupid. Stupid would have been keeping your feelings bottled up inside. I'm honored you're interested in me, Saisai, and when this is over I'll have a real answer for you."

"... Okay."

"Well we should go to the Dark Elves first. They're a bit more friendly. And what about your dad, are we still going to have to deal with him?"

"No, forget him. I don't ever want to talk to him again."

She stands up and wobbles a bit.

"... Help me walk. Please."

Artemis smiles and helps her walk to the dragon shrine. After a few teleports they find themselves at the dark elf forest. Artemis writes a quick note to Mimi and gets a reply.

Good. Glad she made it back okay.

They enter the seemingly empty forest. Saisai tries walking around on her own and while she is still a bit off balance she quickly gets the hang of it.

"I hear something.."

Her ears twitch and she faces a nearby clearing.

"Someone's there."

They quietly go closer to the sound and see a female dark elf slashing at some dead trees with blue blades extending from her hands.

"Holy crap."

"My thoughts exactly. Those blades a-"

"Her breasts are huge.."

.. I suppose.

The girl stops slashing and smiles.

>"You guys can come out now."

"!?"

Saisai looks at Artemis. He motions for her to move to the girl and together they approach her.

>"Snooping around is very rude but seeing as this is a festival I suppose I can let it drop. What brings you two here? Did you come for the food? Don't blame you, everyone comes here for the food. I don't really like festivals myself though. Oh, how rude of me! My name's Chel Sils. You two?"

"Saisai Fahlsing"

"Artemis Dispo."

>"Dispo... Sounds familiar. Anyway what can I do for you?"

"well, my dad used to come here, his name is sable dispo. Minerva was in love with him. do you know her?"

"Umm well... I need to learn Soul Magic in order to save my life and hopefully the world itself. So there's that. Food sounds good too though."

>>306598
"Ah, that would be somewhat related to why I am here.
The soul of Ombra, the dragon of shadow, is currently cohabitating my body. Masil, the dragon of light, said that I need to learn soul magic to get her back to normal.
As for why she's in my body, well... My dad, Sable Dispo, was sorta the person that killed her. *cough*
SO! Er, would you happen to know somebody who would be willing to teach me soul magic so we can get this all fixed?"

Artemis 2011/05/25(Wed)03:07 No. 306608 ID: e6df26
File 130631804977.png - (176.50KB , 977x520 , 608.png )

"Ah, that would be somewhat related to why I am here. The soul of Ombra, the dragon of shadow, is currently cohabitating my body. Masil, the dragon of light, said that I need to learn soul magic to get her back to normal. As for why she's in my body, well... My dad, Sable Dispo, was sorta the person that killed her.... SO! Er, would you happen to know somebody who would be willing to teach me soul magic so we can get this all fixed?"

"..... Uhm.... Dragons of what and what? I don't know anything about that but I know quite a few masters of Soul Magic. But since today is a Festival we're not allowed to do any serious work. I'd get in trouble if someone saw me practicing out here. Please come and eat though, rest a bit. I insist."

Saisai is about to say something when her stomach rumbles. She blushes and turns away

>"Fine, we can get a quick snack..."

Chel smiles and leads them deeper into the forest. She stops at one spot and utters a odd word.
Artemis blinks and suddenly the entire area is changed, like a veil being lifted up. What was once blank forest is now a bustling village with buildings carved into ancient dead tree trunks. Dark elves of all ages are dashing about going from building to building, stopping at the various stands.

"It's the last day so you might be able to snag some freebies. If you need anything just give me a call, I'll be nearby."

>"Is there an elder we c-"

"Oh! You gotta try this!"

Chel snatches a nearby pastry.

>"We really need tMMPH!?"

Saisai is silenced as Chel shoves the food into her mouth. She looks ready to yell at Chel when her eyes go wide.

>"Mph mmph mph(this is good).."

"Glad you like it. Be sure to get more."

She smiles and walks away from them. Saisai continues eating the desert. She stops for a moment and looks at Artemis.

"... I like cakes. Anyway what are we going to do? We can't just waste a day faffing about."

>>306608
No, but these elves seem determined to do exactly that. None of them are going to do anything serious but maybe a few are willing to talk about things that are serious. Find one that is having less fun than the rest and that should be a good chance to have a serious discussion.

First thing to do is relax eat and mingle. Remember Masil said to "live among them" so this kind of thing matters anyway. Wander around and get a feel for them, listen to what is going on and grab a bunch of food. Put some away for later if you can.

did you make a new contract with mimi yet? how many days are remaining?

The dark elves consider this a holy day, where no work is to be done. While it can be considered faffing about, this gives us a chance to make introductions on a more lax environment; besides your job is to learn local culture, not just magic.

Also, there are LOTS of things you could and should do that are technically not work. You should meet up and befriend minerva (and find out if you have a half sibling), local mage masters, and learn more about today's holiday and other dark elf traditions. You could also find somewhere to stay and learn about the locals in charge (who's who)

say you want to meet someone, Minerva.

>>306608
"Hey, Chel? Is Minerva around? I'd like to meet her, since she's sorta like my step-mom."

>>306641
what? having a fling with your dad DOES NOT make her "sorta step mom".

Artemis 2011/05/26(Thu)00:05 No. 306831 ID: e6df26
File 130639353326.png - (118.18KB , 621x655 , 609.png )

>>306619
I should still have some time I think.

Artemis goes around with Saisai introducing himself to several people and getting food. Most of them are actually outsider who've come to the main city for the festivities. One mentions he's from a nearby settlement.

>"Over by Ombra's cave. The place Minerva rules."

"Minerva? Do you know where she is?"

"Good question. She just up and left 3 years ago. Her daughter's been ruling the place in her stead. She just said 'I have to find him' and before we knew it she'd packed up and left."

daughter! could be your sister! ask if this daughter is a pure dark elf.

>>306831
Ask for directions, then GO!
We need to talk with this person who might actually be your half sister, and Saisai won't think we're wasting time as long as we keep moving.

>>306831
..."Find" him? She was looking for your dad why would she be looking for him if he died at the cave. I don't remember her having a daughter either, I wonder her race and how old she is. We will have to go down there ourselves and talk to her no matter the answers so just ask where the place is.

Also ask where you can get a bag, Saisai's haul is quickly getting ridiculous.

Find her daughter first, ask who her daughter is and how old is she (I bet we met her already :P). Don't jump to telling anyone she is your half sister yet as she might not be (for all we know she is a 400 year old full dark elf)

After meeting the daughter meet minerva.

Oh and be sure to bag a good variety of goodies yourself, and send a note to Mimi to have some and to share with Morgan and whoever else is there.

>>306832
Use a bit more tact. Ask about how old she is.

Also, for all we know she could be looking for YOU. Maybe she somehow found out Ombra is in you? If so then we probably do want to meet with her even more.

Anyway, seek out daughter first, since we actually know where she is, and she MIGHT know where Minerva is.
...It probably wouldn't hurt to enjoy the rest of the festival first, though.

>>306868
we have a bag. just tell mimi not to eat it all.

>>306953
Technically we can do that. But I think Saisai will be frustrated with a bag she isn't carrying and that she can't get things out of that is so full of everything delicious. She'll be pestering us every five minutes. It's much easier just to get her her own bag.

Artemis 2011/05/26(Thu)17:08 No. 306984 ID: 882a22
File 130645491506.png - (89.93KB , 642x614 , 610.png )

"Where is the settlement at?"

"Oh just a bit north of here, you can't miss it."

"Okay. If you don't mind me asking how old is she?"

"Hmm... She's going to turn 17 soon. Why?"

"Ah.. No reason. Thank you very much."

The man smiles and leaves. Saisai tries to speak up.

"Mmph mmphh mph."

"huh?"

She swallows the cake she's eating.

"You know this Minerva?"

"Not really, she's someone my father had known. She's also out best bet for getting to a peaceful meeting with the light elves."

"Huh? How so?"

"Since I have the shadow dragon within me I think we'll be able to convince her to get us a meeting with them. Without her help we would not be able to meet the light elves. Not without confrontation at least."

This answer seems to satisfy Saisai. She nods and takes another bite of her food.

"Then we should head over there now, I've had enough right now."

"You need a bag?"

"I have one, thank you."

Artemis places some of his food in Mimi's bag telling her not to eat all of it and share some with Morgan.
The two of them head off in the direction the dark elf had pointed. After a few minutes they see a small village.

"That's it then."

The place is unguarded allowing them to simply walk in.
Artemis walks into a building in the center of the village. Inside is a young dark elf sitting on a tiny throne-like chair.

>"Hmm? Greetings. Bored of the festivities too?"

Man, her stare is intense. Like she's looking at my soul.
Also... She looks more like she's 12 then 17. Maybe the guys was mistaken.

Or maybe elves take slightly longer to mature physically, you doofus. Introduce yourself.

well maybe they age weird? i mean, they are immortal. wouldn't be a stretch that they take a long time to grow up.

say hello and introduce yourself. if she asks about your name then say your father was sable dispo. also need to try and poke her with u. if she has the blood of sable we can touch her.

>>306984
"No, we just don't have time to relax what with all the chaos swarming around us like bottleflies on rotting meet.
You're Minerva's child, right? Half-human half dark-elf born about 9 months or so after the day Ombra died? Daughter of the man your mother is searching for and you never met?"
Walk up to her and give her a hug
"It's nice to finally meet you, sister, though I wish it were under better circumstances."

>>306984
My answer to that is she's an elf. Don't worry about the details right now.
>Like she's looking at my soul.
She probably is. Soul magic, remember?

Explain that you are here because of some family history with the place. Introduce yourself - full name - and ask her what she knows about when your father came through here.

>>306989
For fuck's sake will you drop it already

>>306989
This... might be just a little too forward.

Anycase, yes, introduce yourself as Artemis Dispo, son of Sable Dispo. If she doesn't react to that, then tell her you're trying to get in contact with Minerva and ask who she was looking for.

>>306989
Cool, perfect way to jump on every last nerve she has. She sets the guards on us and warms up some terrifying shadow-magic spell and we... we... wait, I must be missing something here.
Why did you want to turn this meeting into a fight again? I must have missed that part.

Seriously, diplomacy and saying as little that might get us in trouble as we can manage at a time. We also don't know if she is or isn't our sister or really all that much about our father's history with the dark elves. Tread lightly and ask the more interesting questions later when you're certain they won't lead immediately to our death, dismemberment and incineration.
This is a foreign group with strange ways, and what we have for dealing with this potentially perilous situation is very little knowledge, almost none of Sable's charisma, a dragon captive within Artemis' body that wants to take over any body at all and apparently hates him enough to risk his life on a stunt, and a half-catfolk chick whose body holds the dragon of their greatest foe and whose death probably damages that dragon.
TREAD DAMN CAREFULLY.

>>307000
... uhhh. we know for a fact sable banged her mom dude. she very well could be our sister. but i do agree with subtlety.

Eistia 2011/05/26(Thu)18:34 No. 307011 ID: 882a22
File 130646006596.png - (135.66KB , 857x554 , 611.png )

Right, immortal. Forgot about that.

"Uhm.. Yeah we have some uh stuff we need to take care of. Namely meeting you. My name is Saisai, I mean Artemis! My name is Artemis Dispo!"

>"Dispo..? Sable Dispo's son?"

"Yes"

She gets off of her chair and walks up to Artemis. She grabs onto his shoulder and stares at him.

>"It would be very unwise to try to lie to me. I'm very good at telling when someone is lying."

Scary..

"I'm n-not lying. Here, this amulet can only be held by family."

He hands her the Guardian
--------------------------------------------

Hmm. I don't think he's lying. He doesn't look like he's lying. And the look on his companion's face suggests that she is just as confused as I.
But that means my father slept with another woman.

oh don't worry, he was just as surprised when he found out dear old dad did that too.
oh and hello, we are the guardian. you can confirm the fact that only family can touch us by trying to poke saisai the part tiger over there.

>>307011
A bit of an understatment I'm afraid.

>>307011
Oh hi there. We're the guardians of this item. We knew your dad and he uh... he did that kind of thing a lot. Sorry. For what it's worth I don't think your mom was unaware.

Anyways on to more important matters! You know of the dragon Ombra I assume, your dad was tricked into slaying her. She isn't entirely dead though, her mind and spirit live on in the back of your brothers head here. Problem is that is going to be fatal for one or the other of them unless he masters soul magic.

His friend Saisai here has a similar issue except with the wind dragon Aeryr, time magic. Not that you can do much about it but you may as well know.

>>307011
'Another woman'? Pfft, the man swapped partners like rats swap fleas.
He was also really, really dumb, since he was tricked into killing Ombra. On the night you were conceived, in fact. We were there with him when it happened, and while we can't be certain we're pretty sure he died from the wounds she inflicted. Because he ignored all of our warnings and pleas for caution or preparedness.
Also, Art is currently possessed by Ombra, which is why we're here since we have a rather urgent need for her to stop being dead.

If you can contact your mother and call her back, now would be a good time to do it. We can give her information she could really use.

OH! I forgot to introduce us! We are the Guardians, a powerful artifact bound to the Dispo line. Pleased to meet you!

Does this work on all Dispos?

[Change sex]

>>307020
nope, works on art cause of the whole having two souls in one body thing.

Eistia 2011/05/26(Thu)20:21 No. 307025 ID: 882a22
File 130646648129.png - (135.01KB , 649x703 , 612.png )

This is upsetting. I always thought my father to be a noble man. I'll discuss this with mother when she returns.

It is interesting that he has the shadow dragon within him as well. When she had passed away the rest of my people assumed she was gone forever. Now there is a chance for her return and as leader it is my duty to accept it.

"I will be your teacher in Soul Magic. This magical talking amulet explained your situation and I feel it is my responsibility to teach you of our ways."

"Ah, great. Thank you."

"No need to thank me, I am simply helping out my people. Also it will give me a chance to get to know my half brother."

>This girl is seriously your half sister!?"

"Yep. Oh, what's your name?"

"Eistia."

"This is Saisai, my companion."

>"... Nice to meet you."

"I'm sure you must be as surprised as I am. Well you two are more then welcome to stay here while I train my brother. Don't expect free food or anything, there are plenty of jobs to be done around here and there's a request board up so you can make some money."

She smiles at Artemis.

"Please come by here tomorrow for training. Soul Magic is not easy for non-dark elves to learn so we should start as soon as possible. I'd start today if we could but we must abide by tradition right?"

art also needs to gather some stuff from home still. oh and can you hand us back to him. he is kinda useless without us.
[wait until switched to art]
okay we need to get back to central, gather and move our stuff here. and talk to morgan.

>>307025
>I always thought my father to be a noble man.
There's more to nobility than who you choose to sleep with. Regardless, it hardly matters now; he's dead, and Artemis here is about as close to noble as you'll find outside a storybook. That boy has literally cast aside everything he ever dreamed of in order to try and do the right thing, without even being certain he'd succeed- just that he had to try, no matter the cost. He's not the most suave guy, but he'll do almost anything for his friends and his conscience, and he's quite capable.

>I always thought my father to be a noble man.
He was one in every other way. And as ignoble as sleeping around might be he wasn't a deceiver. Just really really charming. Of course that doesn't excuse him leaving fatherless children behind.

So, what can you tell us about soul magic? We don't know much of anything useful about it.

>>307025
Oh, he was noble. No question about it. Ombra lives on inside Art because he realized his mistake and did what he could to help her.

However, noble does not mean without flaws and vices, and it would be a greater disservice to you to let you keep those illusions than to provide the truth - however unpleasant that might be.

Speaking of unpleasant truths, your brother lacks wisdom and experience. While we would love to get to know you, you don't seem to have much use for our help.

If you could, would you please try to hand us to Saisai? She has designs on Art and we don't know who her real parents are, so we need to make sure she's not family *already*.

Another issue that may concern you for multiple reasons: Your brother is terribly shy and poorly able to assert himself normally. He is particularly inexperienced with and easily manipulated by or defeated by feminine intrigue and drama. This is a problem for anybody who doesn't want to die because he's responsible at the moment for trying to restore the balance of peace between the dragons. If he fails probably everyone will die.
We do what we can but we could really use help with that. If you could get a friend to teach him how to deal with women that would make our job managing him much easier and free up effort currently spent dealing with those issues for dealing with the larger problems he has to face.

Suggestion 2011/05/26(Thu)21:22 No. 307035 ID: 882a22
File 130647014330.png - (136.36KB , 580x721 , 613.png )

>>307031
I believe I know just the girl to help with such a problem.

>>307029
I will explain everything about Soul Magic later.

>>307028
You are all correct. He may have slept around but he still was a good man. At least in my opinion.
His son however seems to have inherited his goodness. I actually look foreword to teaching him.

Eistia holds out the Guardian to Saisai.

"I am being told to give this to you. Just to see."

She drops the Guardian into Saisai's hand.
-----------------------------------------

You know, I don't think he's ever been really drunk before. I think you ought to get the two of them wasted, it's a feast day after all.

oh god this should not of worked! i god good news and bad news. good news is you don't need to worry about art's love life anymore, bad news is it's cause you are his sister.

>>307037

Well hang on, they might not be that closely related. They could be distant cousins or something.

>>307038
no no, we only work with anyone with the blood of sable. not the blood of his sister or anything. she HAS to be sable's daughter.

WHAT.

Well.

...This is awkward. Saisai, this amulet can only be held by members of Artemis' family. So you and he are... yeah.

Artemis 2011/05/26(Thu)21:34 No. 307043 ID: 882a22
File 130647086254.png - (141.29KB , 580x721 , 614.png )

After a moment it flies out of her hand and lands on the floor.
Artemis picks it up
---------------------------------------

Oh god that was scary.

>>307043

Hey Art, quick question. You ever been drunk before?

oh thank god, i agree that was scary. anyway i suggest you have the sword on this side before you go to sleep.

No kidding. I mean, it certainly would have made some choices easier but that would be so not worth it.

Anyway, you have the chance to learn soul magic now which is great, but we still need to take care of Saisai. You have a few choices at this point: go back to central now and come back here when you get Saisai a teacher, stay here and Saisai looks by herself, or convince your sister to come along with us and train you along the way.

Explain the importance and urgency of helping Saisai, she might have advice on that. Then ask for a primer on soul magic and how long she thinks it'll take.

>>307051

Can it really not wait a day? Sis already agreed to help tomorrow, because today's a feast day.

>>307043
Strange how there was a delay.

Anyway, could you ask if she knows of any light elves living within the dark elf lands? Or any friendly light elves at all?
Mention that you know one that probably wouldn't kill you on sight, but you have no way of finding him.

>>307044
Whoa, whoa, I know it's fun to play angel of bad decisions sometimes but go play alcoholic-debauchery-matchmaker with people less stupid and prone to idiotic and damaging overreaction that screws up everything than Art and Saisai would you?

The effect I think that ghost was trying to invoke is the judgement-damaging and aphrodisiac properties of alcohol. Those can easily be strong enough to move people to act on attractions that their better sense stops them from acting on normally... like between you and Saisai. Admit it, you think she's hot and you had fun rubbing her ears and at least some of you would be interested in rubbing more. Then realize that if you and she did get drunk you would probably have sex with her and in the morning at least one woman would want to kill you with fair reason.

You do need to get used to the effects of alcohol at some point though because it is a very easily made poison that is part of many cultures' rituals. Start with small doses and remember to drink lots of water to deal with the hangovers before they start. Move on to stronger drinks when you've mastered the art of being almost functional while drunk at lower dosages. This process takes months at a minimum.

>>307063
Spend the night here. Ask Mimi to have Morgan arrange for Mimi to be brought here, and to have anything your or Saisai left behind put inside her first.
Morgan could come herself; that would give you a good chance to let her down gently - which you are GOING to do because it would be horrible of you to start a relationship and then vanish for who knows how long risking your life to stop the end of life as we know it.
She would be worried sick.

Artemis 2011/05/27(Fri)01:37 No. 307087 ID: e6df26
File 130648542887.png - (37.30KB , 577x502 , 615.png )

>>307044
Actually no I haven't. There was never any alcohol at home and I don't like parties very much.

>>307069
I will admit she is pretty and her ears are super fun to play with but... Would I really do such a thing to her under the influence? Maybe I should avoid it... Also she might not take to kindly to us having sex while drunk. Bad memories.

>>307051
I should rest here for the night, I can only use the Dragon Shrine once more today and if I go to central I'll be stuck there for the day.

Artemis writes a note to Mimi telling her to ask Morgan if she could grab his and Saisai's belongings and bring Mimi to a settlement north of the Dark Elf Forrest.

"Hey, no learning/teaching/hard work today. Go out and enjoy the festival. When you've had your fill come back here and I'll show you to your room. I'm sure you two don't mind bunking together."

Before they can reply she kicks them out of her chamber.

Saisai sighs

>"Well let's go then. Might as well stock up on food."

They spend the rest of the days going around to the now closing stalls grabbing as many freebies as possible.
It starts getting dark. The stands begin to close and many people return back to their homes.
Artemis and Saisai pack up their food and head back to the castle. A note is attached to the front simply reading 'Here's the key to the housing across from this building. Room F. Be here tomorrow at 10AM SHARP'

>"That girl needs to relax a bit, seriously."

Artemis laughs and the two of them walk to their room.
They go inside and see the room is bare save a mattress lying on the ground.

>"Wow. Way to go all out. This is how they treat their Dragon?"

"It's.... Well it's free."

"Get what you pay for I suppose."

Saisai drops her bag on the ground

"How're we gonna do this? You want me to tie you up again?"

not... really... I mean if it's a choice between being tied up and not tied up, "not" is generally preferable. It also doesn't seem very sustainable if you are going to be here like this for a while. If that's what it takes for the two of you to be comfortable, I guess that's what it takes, but its a hell of an accommodation to ask of someone, and going to be anything from amusingly embarrassing to potentially deadly when you inevitably need to wake up in a hurry for some reason.

Besides, haven't you earned a *little* trust by now?

>>307087
Hug her
"If you really want, but I was thinking that keeping our clothes on would be enough. Cheront knows hugging would help us both sleep."

"...Sometimes I wish I could just jump into this bag."

I say you grab just a blanket and sleep on the floor. You really should keep something warm with Mimi though, grab it if you do or make a note to do so. And while on that subject, pass a note asking what they're up to right now.

>>307087
>"How're we gonna do this? You want me to tie you up again?"
"No. That would be pointless unless you genuinely think that I'm the kind of person who would try something- and if you do think that, why are you trusting me enough to travel with me at all? Let's just share the mattress and not do anything rash or stupid."

>>307116
sounds good.

>>307116
too wordy. She doesn't need you to give her your analysis of her psyche right now.
I would say something simple like:
"Its your choice. I promise you can trust me".
Then keep your hands to yourself.

Or you could offer her the bed and just sleep on the floor.

>>307087
It might take some doing, but you could get blankets from Morgan through the bag, if they were rolled up tight and sent through lengthwise.

Unless I misunderstood the nature of the bag, and it can only transport items small enough to fit entirely inside it.

>>307153
that would work, and keep things more undecided between you two.
But on the other hand her mental health might benefit from putting her trust in you and having you uphold it. Or even if she chooses to bind you, that works too since its her choice.

the bag can open up to almost the size of mimi's head. so anything smaller then that could fit. also the bag can take on any shape it can be stretched to.

>>307187
that wasn't the question. The question was "does it have to fit in the bag's opening, or fit in the bag". Blankets would obviously be much larger than the bag but possible to move through the bag's opening.

I don't know for sure what you would do while drunk because it depends on a lot of things. Some of those things are what you happened to be feeling and what kind of day you were having before getting drunk, what kind of person you are, and how your metabolism reacts to alcohol. Some people start acting like innocent little kids while drunk, others turn into terrible lechers, other become abnormally loud, or quiet, or sarcastic, or whatever. This voice has been told he turns hilariously sarcastic while drunk because his inhibition against saying impolite things goes way down.
Knowing what happens to you when drunk by testing it in a safe environment with allies on hand to clean up the mess might be a good thing; alcohol tends to be a significant part of many cultures thanks to how it's the most primitive effective way of dealing with unsafe/unclean water supplies and it tends to have a large amount of culture attached to it as well. But don't risk it unless we've got someone watching out for you who is dependably able and willing to react calmly to any provocation or problem. The evidence to date indicates this is probably never going to be Saisai.

"If you think it would be unwise to sleep together then I'll take the floor since that's probably much less painful than being tied up. We do have things to do in the morning so if I have a choice I'd really prefer not to wake up tied like that twice, and by the way, ow about that happening this morning."

Artemis 2011/05/27(Fri)20:47 No. 307279 ID: e6df26
File 130655442633.png - (140.02KB , 548x945 , 616.png )

>>307189
Oh, so long as it can fit through the bag it can be as long as possible. Within reason. A fifty foot pole can't fit because Mimi's room isn't that big but a blanket would be easy enough if it were rolled up. Though I actually happen to have one on me, basic travel kit.

>>307251
I think I'd do well to just avoid getting drunk for now..

Also she simply refuses to let me sleep on the floor for some reason.

"That could be pretty dangerous if we were like attacked at night or something. Besides, haven't I earned just a little trust by now?"

".... I suppose.. Fine. You touch me and you die. Now step out for a bit, I want to change. Also tomorrow we need to find a bathhouse or something."

Artemis nods and leaves the room for a minute.

"You can come back now."

He goes back in and sees Saisai in her sleep wear.

"Hmm... My tail feels weird.. Anyway good night."

She crawls into bed and goes to sleep.

Artemis sighs and follows suit.
---------------------------------------

He wakes up in the morning with Saisai sprawled over him

... I need to get this girl a stuffed animal.

Blow in her ear until she wakes up

>>307279
Whisper in her ear
"Saisai? Is it alright if I touch you now?"
If she says yes, then hug her so she'll wake up.

Really, do you object to her hugs?
Don't even try to tell me that you're unhappy about this, because you and I both know that without her by your side you'd be in far worse shape than she's in now.

yeah. human ears react to that. and her ears are sensitive. let's try it!

Well... maybe we don't need to buy her cute things just yet. Might take it the wrong way. How about a nice big body pillow? Also she needs a tailor to make little tail holes for her clothes.

Anyways that's all later, right now hurry up and get ready. We have some magic to learn!

>>307280
This seems like the best choice. Um, try not to blow directly into her ear though.

Notice large, awkward erection, wait for her to notice large, awkward erection and say, "You know, if I weren't pretty sure it's the wrong time and place, and probably also a bad idea, I would be more than just tempted to put my hands somewhere naughty. Please get up before I give in to temptation?"

>>307279
[Be male]
Don't think of how attractive she is.
Don't think about the lustful look in her eyes.
Don't think about your time with Mimi.
Don't think about how her constant training had make her strong and flexible.
Don't think about how she fucks like a tiger.
Don't think about how much she likes you.
Don't think about how much she wants you.
Don't think about how your erection is poking her.

Artemis 2011/05/28(Sat)01:49 No. 307306 ID: e6df26
File 130657256801.png - (194.98KB , 487x589 , 617.png )

Artemis blows into Saisai's ear. She grumbles a bit and her ear twitches.
He does it again waking her up.

"Mmm...? Oh... Sorry. I wish I had my pillow."

>>307286
>>307288

Saisai feels something poke at her.

"...? !?"

She blushes bright red and quickly gets off of Artemis.

"I... I'm gonna go find the bathhouse. Good luck with training."

She gathers up some clothes and runs out.

You guys suck..

I guess I'd better get ready to.

Artemis gets his gear and heads out to meet his sister.

Artemis 2011/05/28(Sat)01:51 No. 307307 ID: e6df26
File 130657269682.png - (95.00KB , 522x733 , 618.png )

Eistia is waiting for him outside her chambers.

"Good you're on time. Put away your staff, you won't need it here."

"Huh? But this is magic."

"Sigh... We don't use much mana for our magic. The name should be a big clue to what we use."

Blue blades of an unknown substance pop out of her body and envelop her hands creating claws.

"We're able to manipulate our souls. We don't use them up, for the most part, but rather shape them to do what we want. It can be something as simple as a blade or making it heal someone else."

"Woah... So how do I do this?"

"You can't. Normally. Humans are not born being able to do this as we are but you can be taught. It will take time though. You're a wizard so that helps. Wizards can manipulate mana within them so manipulating your soul will come a little more naturally. There are a few different specialties to doing this and depending on which one you want to do it'll take different amounts of time to teach. If you want to do stuff like I'm doing now which is simple blade and spikes maybe... A month if you go slowly. There's also a more defensive type which are healers and people who can make shields, that'd take maybe... 2-3? It varies. Then there's a bunch of other support spells that can do a variety of things like sealing, purifying. That'd take only a few weeks but it's on a per spell basis. What would you like to master?"

how about a crash course that is extremely fast but also super dangerous?

>>307307
Whoa now, this is a fucking important decision. The blades would be nice, but you have a weapon in girl mode and attack magic besides. Defense is most useful but it takes too long. Utility... we need more information there. Remember, just because don't learn the magic first doesn't mean we can't pick it up later. And how much soul magic counts as having it "mastered" anyway? Are we going to learn the spell but keep practicing it before Ombra is freed?

>>307307
You know how once you learned your first spell it was easier to learn a second?
And how learning a second improved your skill with the first because you understood the basic principles better?

Start on EVERYTHING. You were told you need to MASTER this, not gain a basic proficiency in it, so you should to try learning from all the different areas until you find one that's relatively easy to learn, then focus on that until you have a decent grasp on it and then go back through the others to find which one you should learn next. You need to learn it all, so the order is irrelevant.

Oh, also, remember to ask your sister if there are any light elves living in or near dark elf lands. This is rather important.

Healing and defensive magic will probably be the most useful, more so with the problem with Aeryr and Ombra.

To master soul magic you need to master all of them... but lets start with healing and defensive.

>>307310
Yes, this, although if it's all as long and hard as she suggests it would be then I recommend you start with the blades since it's fast and we don't know when we're about to go somewhere or be attacked next. The ability to perform useful melee attack and defense while still your male, spellcasting self would be quite useful.

Also, you are the son of Sable Dispo, one of the greatest lovers this world has ever seen. You need to man up and learn to embrace all the powers of your heritage; Saisai should've walked off with a big smile and a swing in her steps after giving you a kiss geek-boy. Instead she ran out confused, afraid, unsatisfied and vulnerable. Considering you absolutely have to take care of Mimi, since it'd be dangerous for anybody else to do so, and you have both Morgan and Saisai for all-but-lovers already you have to accept that being in love with and loved by more than one woman is simply what you have to deal with. I hope the help I tried to arrange for you works.

Artemis 2011/05/29(Sun)00:17 No. 307577 ID: e6df26
File 130665343387.png - (58.86KB , 368x520 , 619.png )

>>307328
Okay let's say they do all love me, it would be unfair to be with all of them. And they might not appreciate that either.

"Quick question, are there any light elves nearby? I need a teacher for my friend"

"No, now pick already."

"I'll pick... Healing and Defense."

"Hmm. Okay."

The blue blades go back into her body. She closes her eyes and a see through blueish field forms around her whole body.

"This is Soul Block. It spreads a decent chunk of your soul around your entire body as a shield. It can block quite a few things but it isn't unbreakable. This will be your first spell."

"So how do I do it?"

"I just told you, spread your soul around your body"

"How do I do that!?"

"-Sigh- In the same way you would push your mana into your staff you just push your soul outside your body."

"But that's different! I can't do something like that so easily!"

She picks up a rock and tosses it at him.

"ow!"

"I'm going to keep doing this until you get it. Remember, instead of focusing your mana focus with your soul. Get the power from deep within you. A layer below your mana. Now!"

She tosses another rock at him.

"Ow!"

"I can do it, and you're my brother so you can to"
---------------------------
An hour passes.

"Hmm... Not quite. The stones usually work."

"... Ow.."

are you actually TRYING or are you just tensing up every time a rock comes at you?

>And they might not appreciate that either.
They probably wont... although some would even like it...

Say: Ok, rocks aren't working. Rocks usually work on dark elves but I am a human, humans don't naturally do soul magic. Give a few moments to focus without the distraction of the rocks, or at the very least longer pause between each rock. And try not aiming at the face, that jostles the brain and makes it more difficult to perform any magic.

Then close your eyes and focus, focus on your mana try to sense around it, below it like she said.

If that doesn't work:
1. Ask if there is any human soul mage in town you can talk to at least for the initial bit of become aware of your soul.
2. see if it is possible to achieve through meditation or some such.
3. Focus your resolve on memories of those you have seen fall or injured, how you wished you could heal them. Maybe you can tap into healing before defense (and heal those nasty bruises)
4. If not you can try to call on Ombra
5. If still no go you can switch to swords because its supposedly the easiest to do. And you intend to MASTER all of it, not just learn one aspect of soul magic.

>>307593
damn ninja'ed... I was just about to suggest that and then you did... definitely do that FIRST.
Start by having her heal your injuries with soul magic and focus your mage senses on what she does. At the least try touching her soul armor (if she allows it), and if it still doesn't work as if she can somehow manipulate your soul forcibly, with your permission, to help you gain awareness of it.

>>307577
Ok the problem here is manipulating the soul comes naturally to dark elves, but you have no sense of it. Ask her if she can use something that effects your soul so maybe you can get a feel for it. Surely one of those "utility" soul magics can be useful here.

But also remember what she said: "a layer below your mana". What you seek is that way but you have to keep going. Imagine you mana is water and you need something deep within it. Or picture you mana as a storm and find the eye of it. Something, anything, just dig deep enough and you'll find it.

>>307596
Yea, ask her to start poking your soul so you can feel it.

Oh, and it's not unfair to love multiple people unless they disapprove or you keep it secret. Who knows, Morgan and Saisai might both be bi.

Artemis 2011/05/29(Sun)01:42 No. 307608 ID: e6df26
File 130665852007.png - (197.11KB , 917x657 , 620.png )

>>307597
Really not something I want to think about while I'm training!

"I just don't get it! I can't feel my soul, can you like poke it or something so I can?"

Eistia sighs and walks up to him. Her hand goes into claw mode and before he can react Artemis feels the blue hand being shoved into his body. She begins pulling something out of him.

"See this? Feel this? This is your soul. Hurts doesn't it? If you don't master this anyone can do this to your soul. Concentrate, focus on protecting yourself, on protecting your soul. Treat every attack as though it is lethal."

She lets go of his soul. It snaps back into his body.
Artemis realizes that the whole time she had his soul he was holding his breath.

"Now... Block!"

She tosses another rock at him. Artemis focuses on the feeling of his soul leaving his body.
A thin flimsy shield forms around his face deflecting the rock.

"!!! I did it!"

"Hmph. Good. Okay. You're done here for the day. Keep working on it and come back tomorrow."

>>307608
Ok, practice that. for the rest of the day.

Actually... If Soul magic is based on moving your soul around, then how about you try to make a blade with it? Mash it into a wedge and hit a dead tree with it.
When you're taking a a break from practicing that shield, I mean.

Is there a mission board around here? Post a listing for a time mage trainer or information leading to one.

WAIT ASK ABOUT BETTER SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS!

Let's see.... first patch yourself up with healing magic you look like shit. Pass Mimi a note asking how things are there. Then head over to the requests board, you'll likely find Saisai around there too. Keep practicing soul magic as you go.

ask her to patch you up with leaing soul magic... so you can get a better feel for it.
Then to do a little more training. You just managed to feel and move your soul for the first time ever. All the training up until now was just standing there impotently getting pelted with rocks. Your "real" training today consisted of moving your soul ONCE... you will forget the feeling and have to start from scratch if you don't seize the moment and push yourself into further moving your soul.

maybe we should go back to central and get mimi and talk to morgan

>>307658
Not a bad idea... But let's see if there is a job to go out that way first. At least that training session didn't take long so we can take care of things.

Artemis 2011/05/29(Sun)22:24 No. 307763 ID: e6df26
File 130673305649.png - (21.57KB , 348x539 , 621.png )

>>307658
Actually they're going to come over here to see me. At least that's what Mimi said, I told them how to get here to.

"Can you heal me a bit?"

"Nope. I'd rather not use soul magic on a non-dark elf. Especially my brother."

"Huh?"

"Soul Magic, mostly the healing kind, has a unique effect on any one other then a Dark Elf. It would be most inappropriate to use it on you. Use your own human healing spells."

"Uhm.. Okay. I was wondering.. Can we get a better room?"

"If you can pay for it, sure. Isn't it enough that I gave you a free room?"

"I suppose.. Okay, thanks."

He goes out and keeps practicing making his shield. It's a bit easier now but still flimsy and pale. A good punch could probably shatter his 'shield'.
He heals a bit and notices something.. Unlike his normal spells these spells do not seem to take any mana or tire him out. He could probably practice this all day.

Artemis makes his way to a request board, most of it is written in elven but a few have common written under their native script. He writes up a quick request on information for a Time Mage and how best to contact him.

Artemis 2011/05/29(Sun)22:28 No. 307765 ID: e6df26
File 130673330068.png - (53.50KB , 543x325 , 622.png )

He feels the bag rustle a bit and reaches inside. There's a note inside it from Mimi

Okay I guess I'd better get ready to see them in a bit.
I wonder how she's carrying Mimi..

Artemis goes back to his room and sees Saisai inside.

Artemis 2011/05/29(Sun)22:30 No. 307766 ID: e6df26
File 130673342583.png - (58.82KB , 269x556 , 623.png )

"Oh, hey Artemis.. Uhm... How'd training go..?"

"Oh, it was good. I can make a little soul shield."

He shows her the shield.

"Huh, that's neat.. Okay."

She seems... Distracted.

>>307766
"Is everything ok? You know I'll help you with anything, right?"

Can you tell what she's carrying without looking at them too closely? Do her eyes have any color to them?

Try to coerce that shield into a blade, and try to cut a piece of paper with it. Keep your practicing going!

tell her straight up that something seems to be bothering her.

>>307769
Oh, and stretch your arms over your head and back. You want to make sure you don't have any sore muscles now, since Saisai might want to practice later.

>>307763
>"Soul Magic, mostly the healing kind, has a unique effect on any one other then a Dark Elf. It would be most inappropriate to use it on you. Use your own human healing spells."
Presumably she'll tell you what these effects are once you get around to learning spells that can affect other people, I guess? It sounds rather important to know about. Don't forget to ask.

"...Come on, let's see about getting better, separate rooms. And get you a nice big pillow."

Tell her you put in a request about someone to teach time magic, and if there are no hits you'll have to head out with her to find one yourselves. It's not like you can't spend some time practicing on the field. And ...casually mention Morgan will be arriving soon with Mimi. I mean it's really not something you want to surprise her with, even if she doesn't want to hear it right now.

Artemis 2011/05/30(Mon)00:07 No. 307799 ID: e6df26
File 130673922288.png - (86.06KB , 480x714 , 624.png )

Yeah I can't make it into anything even somewhat sharp. I can make the shield form around my hand but that's about it.

"Is something wrong Saisai?"

"No, nothing."

"Okay.. Morgan is coming by to drop Mimi off. Oh and I put up a notice for a light elf teacher."

"Good, now your Mimic can be with you again.. So Artemis.."

"Hmm?"

"I... I want you to train with me. If you have the time. I've just been lazing about lately."

"absolutely.
also, you're blushing, is that about this morning?"

Definitely...
Hopefully she isn't still sticking to her father's "fight as if trying to kill during training" idea... if she is we can try to suggest alternatives.

>>307804

Wrestling is a good start, you're both good at ranged and striker techniques, but I haven't seen much in the way of close combat and unarmed styles.

>>307808
Very yes! do that.

PS. Your baby sister is too shy to explain explicitly what happens when a dark elf uses soul magic to heal a human or a relative... i am guessing it is overly intimate. But its worthwhile to know. So see if you can find miss Sils again and ask her to specify.

Also, since soul magic takes no mana then continue practicing with it as long as you are conscious, all day every day until you master it. Don't just hold the shield, move it around, try multiple shields at once, try rapidly displacing it or drawing it back in and popping a new one at a drastically different spot, and try various spots in your body. Feet, legs, back, chest, head and genitals.

>>307799
"I would love to.
... Er, you're distracted by this morning, aren't you. I, ah, I'm not dead- I mean, my body still works like normal, and certain things cause- Err... It's an emotional block, not a physical one. I care about you a lot, but I can't be in a relationship when there's death hanging over us. I can't have somebody I love worrying that I'll die horribly, and I can't let people attack my loved ones to get to me. Nobody deserves to be put through any of that.
I'm also really new to the whole relationship thing - I mean I couldn't even tell that I liked Morgan until she held me down and made out with me, but now I'll have to break if off with her because being involved with me would put her in danger and I can't ask her to throw away the life she has in central to come with me and even if she was willing to do that she's not a skilled enough fighter to hold her own so being with me would put her in danger anyway and-GAH!
I like you, Saisai, I really do, I just need some time to sort my feelings out once we're not under constant risk of death. Ok? Please, don't be sad."

>>307799
Tell her yes but also that there is no harm in relaxing a little sometimes. Sparring will help you too with practicing your soul shield. She should have her staff still, use yours and you can bludgeon each other to your hearts content. Of course if it's going to be a fair fight that means a sacrifice of masculinity on your end.

[Change Gender]

Come to think of it, if you have to keep sharing a bed with her you should sleep while female. No unexpected protrusions and you make a considerably better pillow.

>>307810

Oh my god it could be the perfect condom.

>>307813
Yeah, except for the whole not being in physical contact thing. It makes for a damn good emergency defense of ones family jewels though.

>>307813
...would it? Can he feel what the soul shield feels, in terms of tactile feedback?

If so, that is very awesome and practice should begin immediately. If not, too bad; it was a good idea.

>>307812
[no gender change yet. not actually in battle or going to sleep]

>>307818

Two words for you dude.

Reservoir. Tip.

As long as fluid transmission is the only thing you're worried about, anyway.

She's probably both confused about this morning's "incident" and frustrated at not being able to do anything about her and your situation right now.

Anyway, sparring with Saisai sounds like the perfect excuse to practice your soul shield.

>>307818
that is actually what i meant... groin kicks are inevitable

>>307826
It will at least be easier to get her mind off of it if it isn't there. You know what I mean.

Perverts.

>>307799
Train with her. Change into a female and see if the soul shield works still. Try to maintain a soul shield, or even form one in anticipation of being hit.

Yes. You should train with her. Less-lethal combat is still a type of combat she needs to train in. While she's getting used to it, you can also train your shield to further decrease any possibility of damage. This allows both of you to work on areas that you know you need to work on.

However, there are a few things that should be taken care of first. Finding out the layout of the town, and what resources are available, including possibly a training arena you could use.

Also, unless I missed it, despite having put down a gold for it back when you got your first knight assignment, you never did go back to pick up that shield bangle, nor did you buy any other defensive items.

While your picking up active defense skills is highly useful, it would also be useful to have some sort of defensive item that does not require active use.

Now that it is no longer a festival day, you could see about shopping for such an item. Doing so would also make the non-lethal training practice less dangerous for you.

Other items that increase your abilities in non-active fashions can also be good for long-term potency. For example, an item of some kind that allows you to act with greater speed, for example, would benefit on just about any role/task be it attack, defense, healing, utility, or even tasks outside of combat.

While out and about, you may be able to find out what the 'inappropriate' situation is. Also, since your sister is apparently only half-dark-elf it may be that she suffers from this condition as well if any other dark elves attempt to heal her. This may be part of why she knows about it.

My, it's been far too long, Artemis.

*Reads everything following chapter 5*

...What. The. Fuck.

1. Regulus is a BITCH
2. The King is a BITCH
3. Tsundere Shadow Dragon
4. Super Healing
5. Soul Magic
6. More casanova antics
7. Dragonslayer fools around, befriending dragons
8. The douchebag Light Elves possess a douchebag dragon guardian.
9. Sable was a playa
10. Tsundere Saisai
11. LOLI Saisai
12. Suddenly, a half-elf sister
13. Also, lots of innuendo
14. Currently in an awkward situation

Well, shit.

As for the current situation, yeah. Go train with her.

>>308169
yea... isn't it just pure awesomeness!?

>>308022

As an additional note, while finding the Arena, getting the defensive gear, etc, you might also want to pick up some padded gloves for Saisai, and possibly work on protecting your head and crotch area with your shield at the same time.

Boost! GP:85 Artemis 2011/05/31(Tue)23:29 No. 308208 ID: e6df26
File 130690979199.png - (88.40KB , 500x500 , 625.png )

Oh god my head... And yes, you guys are perverts! A groin protector would be pretty awesome but not some type of tiny birth control!
Honestly..

Anyway I don't have much money on me so shopping is out of the question. After I take a few missions I can buy some new equipment and maybe Morgan's father will deliver my bangle.

"Sure. Uhm... Are you blushing about this morning?"

"What? No. I don't know what you're talking about.."

"Okay.. Well, let's find a spot to train."

The two of them search until they find an empty cave. Saisai gets out her training staff and Artemis equips his rod.

"Ready?"

She charges.
---------------------------------------

20 minutes pass, Saisai has Artemis pinned down, his arms pushed into the ground by her knees, spear drawn to his throat.

"Too easy."

My... Arms...

>>308208
"You win!
Now that you have me, what are you going to do with me?~"

>>308208
>And yes, you guys are perverts!
That sounds like a challenge. You ain't heard nothin' yet.

And hey, once you actually start sleeping with women regularly instead of just having awkward sexual tension with fourish of them at once, maybe you'll begin to appreciate a bit of creative thought on the topic, yes?

see, this is why you need to practice by yourself you ever get caught without us and you would of been toast if this was someone trying to kill you.
"yes, most of my abilities decided i should learn to fight without them so i can't be caught off guard, shows the difference a magic trinket can make huh"

>>308208
Well, get up, you aren't getting much training done just laying there on the ground.

Saisai looks a bit irritated, maybe you should ask her about that.

>>308215
she is annoyed cause she remembers art kicking her ass and wondering how he got so weak.

GP:90 Artemis 2011/06/01(Wed)03:09 No. 308233 ID: e6df26
File 130692298628.png - (53.06KB , 328x466 , 626.png )

"Yeah.. You managed to pin me pretty easily."

"You jerk.."

"Wh-what?"

"Did you think throwing the fight would make me happy? That was pathetic."

"I didn't!"

"Don't lie to me, you're stronger than this!"

"It's the Guardians! They give me advice and powers! I didn't let them help!"

"What? So you were going easy one me."

"I-wha?"

Saisai moves her knees off of Artemis.

"You fought without your equipment. The Guardians are yours. It's no different then a summoner's summons or my spear. If you don't come at me with everything neither of us will get stronger."

"Ah! I, er, sorry! It's just.. You seem to get along fine without a thing like that.. I feel guilty for the shortcut."

"Be quiet. Use anything you can in combat. If it gives you an upper-hand don't hesitate to use it!"

She sighs.

"Now what to do with you?"

Artemis can see her tail moving back and forth as she looks at him

"I'll let you choose your punishment. In real combat this would mean death, however I feel like being merciful."

>>308233
"There are things you've wanted to do with me, but refuse to admit. I'll be completely yours until tomorrow morning. Unless it goes well..."

>>308233
She needs to get some better pants and underwear to go with that tail.

Hmm. Punishment. I'm tempted to say you could be her slave for a certain amount of time but that is CERTAIN to result in Morgan walking in on some compromising position.

>>308234
Alternatively? Take a deep breath, and let it out:
"Ok... Saisai? You've really helped me today, and perspective helps... I can't promise it will work out, and I don't know how I'll feel, but... Saisai, I want to love you. Just... lead me patiently, but earnestly."

Really, you only knew you cared for Morgan AFTER she kissed you, and Saisai will certainly keep you from getting stagnant and complacent.
You need to grow as a person, and to do that you need to push past your comfort zones and gain experience.


Besides, you both owe each other your lives several times over, and she's the only person you can date without worrying about getting them killed. Since you don't know how you feel the least you can do is give her a fair shot at being happy with you.

>>308233
"I have nothing to my name to surrender and I can't think of how to be more shamed or embarrassed than I usually am every other day. I really have no idea what you can do to me now besides beating me up more. And today I was willing let myself be pelted with rocks for an hour."

"Just... take a rain check, punish me however you like whenever you decide later. I know I'll regret it but that's the point, right?"

>>308237
Or, if NEITHER of those is palatable to you, then just reach up with both hands and start scratching behind her ears to put her in a more lenient mood, then say "I'm at your mercy. Do as you like."

>>308208

You have a magic bag. One that leads to a Mimic. One where in you have been storing much of your gold. And you don't have much money at all on you? That is... interesting.

Well, since she had at least some of your money, and you stored her at Morgan's place, perhaps something was arranged with the bangle, yes.

In any case, I would suggest that your punishment be that she gets to assign a training regimen and run you ragged any way she likes, to increase your dexterity and stamina.

Possibly running, while dragging her behind you on a mat, while she gets to continually poke you with the butt of her spear for not running fast enough.

After all, faster training requires faster running.

As an alternate suggestion, you have to buy, and make dinner tonight. Hopefully you've learned to cook.

As an alternate-alternate suggestion, you have to give her a long full body massage. It helps works the kinks out after training. She liked the ear massage after all.

Hmmm. Now that we have many GP with which to work once again perhaps you could feed some of them to Mimi through the magic bag, preventing some future points from being wasted, and expanding available long-term capability. 10-20 should do it, if this bag-option is available.

We would of course want you to give her the option of you becoming a slave to her for some time. At least some of us ;P

But then the option of her making a train regimen for you is also nice.

i am pretty sure she is not demanding money or property guys, this was a friendly spar and she has you pinned... she is obviously teasing you.
Just go along with it.

And by that i mean play it up dramatically but humorously "oh woe is me, I have fallen and taken captive... Now I shall be forced to service my new master with foot massages and ear rubs". That will probably avoid this turning into a hot make-out session without insulting her and hurting her feeling (which is what insinuating she is demanding some physical property would do)

Alternatively: "I'll take the punishment of not demanding anything of you next time when I kick your ass."

"well since i am a captive i suppose you could tie me up and inflict most horrible torture, you could do anything to me and i would be unable to fight back"

>>308262

Well obviously it's a friendly match, and a friendly punishment. Otherwise a training regime wouldn't be a possibility. :P

I didn't mean a long term one, obviously, as Art already has a commitment to his sister. But she can still run Art ragged any time over the next week that his sister isn't already doing that to him.

I'd rather save reminding her of the two times he beat her until -after- her punishment of Artemis is administrated. Won't tick her off while she has a spear to Artemis's throat. Also, it gives us and Artemis a chance to look forward to an "oh crap" look on her face.

Max GP increase. GP:101/110 Artemis 2011/06/01(Wed)14:33 No. 308323 ID: e6df26
File 130696403230.png - (110.65KB , 469x500 , 627.png )

I can't transfer GP through the bag but Mimi shouldn't be to far off.

Anyway Saisai does seem to be in a playful mood so..

"oh woe is me, I have fallen and taken captive... Now I shall be forced to service my new master with foot massages and ear rubs"

"A suitable punishment. I expect you to fulfill it when we return to the settlement."

She gives a small smile and gets off of him. Artemis brushes himself off and grabs his staff.

Together the two of them walk back into the settlement

>"Artemis!"

"??? Oh! Morgan!"

Morgan runs up to Artemis dragging luggage behind her.

>"I was looking all over for you. I got Mmimi and my stuff all ready."

"Your stuff?"

"Yes. My father and I were talking and we decided instead of sticking to central we should branch out our stores. His demon is travelling around the land with fathers Tent of Holding and I decided to move my shop closer to here, the Dark Elf lands. Many more ingredients come from here anyway. And now we don't have to be far from one another."

She smiles at him

>>308323
...Wut.

look at saisai and tell her that you and morgan need to talk alone. make sure your face is super serious. then when she leaves tell morgan about the king and stuff and how you don't want a relationship to get too serious while you have this giant spectre of death hovering over you. as well as the fact that a loved one would be an obvious target to capture and threaten. for now we can be very good friends.