Yeah, well.. Sorry about your dad! We should have told him to run!

But it's safe here..now.. right? Are you safe?
Um. Yes.

What kind of awesome things can you do? You tell us, and we'll tell you what we do.

>>309505
Oh, tell me about it! Saisai's head over heals in love with him, but he has this thing going on with potion girl where he has barely kissed her, but as soon as he sent word he couldn't stay in Central she immediately dropped everything she was doing abandoned her store and moved her entire life here just to be with him.
He doesn't think this is the least bit strange, creepy, or codependent, and nothing we've said has gotten him to use critical thinking.
He and Saisai have saved each others lives a bunch of times, he's been flirting with her near constantly, and he can't even manage to let her down easy! She offered to be his second wife, and his response was basically 'LOL NOPE'.
This is going to end in everybody crying and their hats on fire. I just know it.

But enough of that! How are you, Eistia? Any way we can help you out?

[Change Gender]

That is mostly true but with us helping him he's done pretty well. However this girl is a damn tough case. It's about that companion of his, Saisai.

Let me paint a picture of this for you. You see she grew up being completely sheltered by an oppressive father, forced to pretend to be fully human, never had any friends, got into an arranged engagement that ended horribly for everyone involved, and finally managed to be a knight just to have it taken away. Artemis has been the one pulling her ass from the fire, keeping her from getting herself killed and finally got her to start to open up. It's not surprising she fell in love with him, but it's Morgan that he loves. Letting her down easy proved... difficult. We can only hope she doesn't do anything rash.

And now she has the wind dragon possessing her and trying to destroy her. I'm not sure how souls are harmed or healed but that can't be a good combination. Is there something soul magic can do to strengthen her or help her recover?

>>309505
Well, to be fair, he did spend most of his life studying to be a mage and didn't go out much.
Not to be harsh on him, but in all probability the main reason he's been making halfway competent social decisions lately is 'cause we've been feeding him advice.
Though i think we're well on the way to changing that.

Here's hoping our time with you will be refreshingly balanced.

[Change gender]
Lets see if this works

Of course it is hard to say wether his devotion to momogamy is a good thing, considering the power and number of his enemies...

>>309514
God damn it, how many times do I have to say it-
>Guardian Skills: Change Gender 5
Wait, what?

>>309505
In your brother's defense, his friend Saisai is a complicated case. Even if he means well, Artemis doesn't have much experience dealing with girls.

Anyway, what did you want to talk to us about?

[Don't change gender]
Guys, don't be rude! Shouldn't we ask for permission or at least warn Eistia before trying something like that?

>>309507

Dude, him and Morgan are ready to jump each others bones, they fell hard for each other after she killed him by mistake.

>>309505

Anyway sis, you wanna play chess or thermonuclear war?

Soooo... maybe you could tell us a little about yourself.

[Change gender]

Hello there. I'm glad you are enjoying the situation.

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

Women and men each have their own unique intricacies. One of the great myths is that women are naturally more mysterious or difficult to figure out. This is of course a myth that many women and men have propagated because they wish it to be true.

But enough philosophy. The situation before us is... complicated. Artemus and Morgan have helped and supported each-other multiple times, as have Artemus and Saisai.

Saisai has been closed off, and emotionally unavailable, and has picked up some very abusive habits from her father, which Artemus has been trying to help her shed. The reasons that she loves the lug have been touched on. He's a kind, helpful person who has been kind and helpful to her, and she has not experienced that kind of kindness before, as far as is known.

Morgan, meanwhile, has been constantly and openly supportive, even if she has not directly saved his life in combat situations. She did save it a few times, but those were all cases where she was also the one that put him in danger. Meanwhile, Artemus has inherited some of his father's charm with women, and Morgan is attracted to him. They have made time for each-other, and made no pretense about liking each-other. I think that she is Artemus's first Girlfriend, and as such, he is highly attached to her. I really hope it works out between them.

There are, of course, additional factors.
Saisai needs to learn time magic in order to remove the dragon guardian within her, much as Art need to remove his. One of the ways that her life could be saved is if she becomes bonded to a light elf. If we can find one, he turns out to be kind and helpful, and she develops affection for him, this could be a very good choice that could save her life. If she is too attached to Artemus, it could spell her death, and possibly that of the dragon, depend on if the dragon kills her by taking control, or if someone else kills her first.

Now that we've given you information on your brother so that you can help him... I'd ask you to return the favor. I apologize in advance if these questions are at all embarassing.

Earlier you mentioned that there is a side effect when members not of the dark elf race use the healing powers of your form of magic. Will this apply if Artemus uses this type of healing magic? Given that it is "inappropriate" for sister to use this magic on brother, this seems like something that might complicate relationships.

Given how complicated Artemus's life is, I doubt it needs more complications, especially ones that he walks into unknowingly. Whether it is he, or a dark elf who needs to use healing abilities on one of his friends, it would be helpful to know what, exactly, this complicating effect is, to help him decide what kind of healing should be involved for any given wound.

Also, since you share a father with Artemus, the possibility presents it's self that if Artemus heals you, the same effect, or a lesser version, may occur since your father was not a dark elf. I apologize if this is a sensitive subject, but it's something that we should know to advise him against doing if apropriate.

Also, if you could explain to us more about your people, and what has happened to them since their dragon guardian was sealed inside of Artemus, and since your mother left, that would also be helpful.

[Do not change gender]

Guys guys, let's think rationally about our powers before we try them here. Change gender and Shadow Shield depend on the presence of Ombra. Heavy Slash and Flash Step are warrior skills and likely wouldn't work for Eistia. Same with Regain Mana since she does not use that kind of magic. The Limit Breaks are always unique to the person that uses it and shouldn't work otherwise. Struggle, Minor Psionics and Cloak Object all might work... but might not. We need more information on her skills before doing anything.

[Check for usable abilities with this host.]

[Change Gender]

I really feel like checking if this works so...

[Change Gender]

>>309505
Yeah, he just keeps on blundering with them. At least he finally decided what he WANTS.

So what are you after right now?

[Check for usable abilities]

Gender Change -5 GP:100 Eistia 2011/06/06(Mon)18:35 No. 309860 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130741055589.png - (50.92KB , 377x430 , 639.png )

??? That was weird. It felt like a wave of energy from you.

>>309535
Hmm. I suppose there is no harm in explaining it to you. You are nothing more then a inanimate object.
Soul Magic between two dark elves is fine, we are built to be able to manipulate our souls from a very young age. I could make my first shield when I was 1.
Other species are not built for such a thing and as a result when Soul Magic is used on them it has an almost pleasurable sensation. It's like a very nice massage combined with someone running their hand through your hair.
As a half Dark Elf I am not fully immune to such effects, something that I am grateful for as soul magic can be quite relaxing at times.

As for what happened here and with my mother, well the Dark Elves seem to have taken no notice to the loss of our Dragon. I however noticed something. I can just 'sense' that we have been weakened somehow. I can't quite say how but I feel it.

And my mother... Well she believes that Father could not have died in that fight and has been trying to look for him.

>>309509
If it is a dragon who is doing the damage then I am afraid there is little I can do to help.

Now, you all solve problems correct? What sort of limitations do you have?

for one, we are just an assistant, unless you are willing to go the distance we can't do anything.

...you guyyyys. That is incredibly rude.

Eistia, check your body. It seems our Guardian Skills work on you, and uh... the consensus was to try one of the least inexpensive ones first. Shadow Shield would've been a better idea though, I'd bet.

Do you know of any way to bring a Dragon back from the dead? Or at least get some sort of body for her to take over?

>>309879
one thing art can do is get the spark of life back into a body. but it doesn't bring back a soul, get a recently dead body and we may be able to move it's soul over.

anyway, what you need?

>>309860
You can sense that, can you? Impressive. Yes it is true that your people are weakened without her, but I couldn't tell you all that it really means.

If your father died I don't see why he wouldn't have been in the cave still. And since us and the dragon blade were with him someone must have taken us to Artemis and his mother. We don't remember very much but there are two memories that are important: the first is that when he went to fight the dragon there we told him to take along a healer in case he was wounded. We never met the healer or even know if he did so but you should be able to find out who it was if he did. Secondly we have a faint memory of him walking away from what we think was Artemis' home... it might have been when he left us behind but we can't be certain it wasn't an older memory.

There's nothing you can do for Saisai, really? Damn. Artemis had a vision of a blue orb being destroyed by wind. It was of course Saisais soul. If soul magic can't help then what possibly can? Is it only because the dragon would prevent anything from working? Is there at least someone you know like a therapist who can help her?

As far as actual abilities go, we can use our power to cause the some of bearers natural powers to trigger. This can include Limit breaks which is usually very difficult to pull off, we can make happen when we wish as long as we are near max power. We can also learn new powers from others if the user has grown close to them. We can't do much besides that, I'm afraid. Except for all the talking. Actually I'm not sure what we can do when in your possession. What skills do you have? We might be able to use another learned power too, let's try one.

[use Minor Psionics to hover ourselves]

>>309879
Shadow shield is not one of our abilities. The power for that comes from something else. Something that we may not have access to away from Artemis. In any event, using it has consequences which are not fully understood at this time.

Eistia, these are the sort of shenanigans Artemis has been putting up with all his life. They have contributed to him being a little socially awkward at times, so please gently inform him if he starts doing something rude.

Our only limitations stem from our limited ability to sense the world around us, and generally playful but well intentioned sense of morality. We would likely be much more involved global events were we not limited to interacting with members of your family. Most of the time we can do little more than offer advice, but we are observant to many small details, think very quickly, and have direct control over a small number of unusual magics ranging from the useless to the supposedly impossible.

Check your pants. you might be male at the moment. Don't worry if you are, we can reverse it.

Psionics-20+6 GP:86 Eistia 2011/06/06(Mon)20:29 No. 310002 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130741739495.png - (61.31KB , 386x426 , 640.png )

>>309978
Hmm? Nope, still female. Though I am rather amused that that is the first thing you would try out on me. I can assume that you've made my brother into a girl at some point?
I wonder what he's done with his newfound womanhood.

Anyway if all you can do is talk and advise then that is all I need.
As ruler of this land I am responsible to see that my people are safe. Sometimes this includes night patrols. However there is a flaw in that.. See, I am afraid of the dark.

Is there any way I can get over that?

>>310002
>I can assume that you've made my brother into a girl at some point?
He has the shadow dragon inside him. She's female. That's given him a predisposition towards shifting genders. He's a modestly badass warrior when he's female, presumably because the shadow dragon is built that way.

actually we stabilized him, he would do it by himself when he was growing up by accident, and he apparently was more afraid of it then anything. anyway, fear is a slippery thing. one thing that may help is the fact that your dragon was/is the dragon of shadow, the darkness is her domain and and therefor it is also yours.

I am afraid of the dark too.

Have you tried wearing a blindfold during the daytime while sitting in the sun?

Learn how to be blind, and then the dark will be easy.

Have you tried a slow, gradual approach? Such as forcing yourself to deal with darkness in a safe atmosphere first, then deal with it longer, then deal with it with less support, then longer time, etc? It's a slower method, but should be reliable.

If that is too time consuming, what about a fire made from your soul? Darkness shouldn't be an issue if you eternally have fire and light.

How is your mother doing? We haven't seen her since well... Sable has seen her obviously. Also, kick Art at some point and tell him to send a latter to his family, I don't he has ever done so since he became a knight.

>>310002
Actually it's Ombra that let's him turn into a girl, it's us that makes it easy to do. Mostly all he does with it is use that form to swing his sword around, seeing as he is a warrior in that form. He is also more likely to say things without thinking, which has been a lot of fun. Heck he wouldn't even be with Morgan if we hadn't taken advantage of that.

As for the dark... hmm. We don't have a power for that but that doesn't mean we couldn't get one in time. All we can do is talk you through it. We can't help you see in the dark but we can help you from being completely alone when you do.

I do have some advice though: if you are afraid of what hides in the dark, remember that you are also what hides in the dark. Anything in it is going to be just as unknowing of you as you are of it.

Eistia 2011/06/06(Mon)21:17 No. 310034 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130742022739.png - (2.59KB , 500x500 , 641.png )

>>310018
Fire out of a soul? That's Soul Flare, I've never been able to use that. Only people who are... Not very nice can use that spell.

And my mother is doing well. She's been healthy and such. Just a bit lonely..

This room is pretty safe.. I can try it here.

She turns the light off.

Eistia 2011/06/06(Mon)21:18 No. 310035 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130742028119.png - (52.40KB , 321x438 , 642.png )

No no no no!

She turns it back on

I said a blindfold.
Having your eyes shut turns off your ability to see, otherwise you would be scared of the dark every time you blinked!

>>310002
The only way we know how to fix that is to have you go out in the middle of nowhere in the middle of the night and put up with it.

Sorry, but we're really better at helping people through unusual situations.

>>310035
Yea, this won't work if you can just turn the light back on.
So... Break the lamp and force yourself to stay here?

[STRUGGLE at the lamp]

>>310035
A phobia is best confronted with limited and careful exposure. Your don't strap someone into a plane if they're afraid of flying, you nitwits!

You make them watch a movie about planes. When they're comfortable with that, you put them in a flight simulator as copilot. When they are comfortable with that, you take them to a high location and have them stand on the roof. And so on, until they're finally flying in a real plane.

In that vein, Please darken the lights until you are slightly uncomfortable.

>>310041
these are torches, they are ether on fire or not.

It's much darker with lights off indoors than it is outside. Let's head to right outside your front door and face the night. Not enough to be unable to see but dark enough to let your eyes adjust to it.

Well, according to some, fear and pleasure cannot exist in the same place, so slowly introducing fears at a distance while perusing enjoyable activities can sometimes help. For example. Eat cocolate in a light room, then one just a bit shadier, then just a bit shadier over time. Of course you should do this on different days, otherwise you'll be sick of the chocolate too soon for it to be as helpful. :P

Eistia 2011/06/07(Tue)04:30 No. 310147 ID: fe245e
File 130744625663.png - (27.90KB , 600x600 , 643.png )

What's a plane?

>>310047
I don't have any chocolate right now but I can step outside. The moon has some light I suppose.

Eistia puts on a cloak and heads out.

.... I want to go back now..

Hmm?

Someone's leaving the settlement.

>>310147
Is that Saisai?
Go stop her! We need her to keep the earth dragon from killing everybody!
THIS IS VERY BAD! RUN!

>>310147
Oh no... that's Saisai! You can't let her leave like this. Go stop her!

Man I hope this one works... [Flash Step]

It -may- be Saisai. In any case, it's something that needs to be checked. Go make sure she's not running away. Please? This is important.

[Flash Step] [Increase Speed!] [Ludicrous Speed go!] [Go go gadget rocket skates!] [Red makes it go fastah!]

Is that Saisai trying to sneak out into the night? Call out to her and don't let her run away! Try your best to convince her to stay in the settlement, it's really important.

Some of us, >>309509 and >>309535, already gave you a summary of the situation with Artemis, Saisai and the dragons, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. We found out that the Earth dragon is plotting to have all the other elemental dragons killed, breaking the balance between the various races of the world. If this happens, it will likely lead to a huge war.

Ombra and Aeryr are currently reduced to spirits possessing Artemis and Saisai. Right now your brother is trying to find a way to resurrect the dead dragons and restore the balance, which apparently involves him and Saisai learning and mastering soul magic and time magic, respectively.

Unfortunately, Aeryr is trying to come back to life on his own by destroying Saisai's soul and taking over her body. We're planning to find someone who can teach Saisai time magic, and also find a way to heal or slow down the damage done to her soul. But if she runs off, we won't be able to help her. We're really worried that she may end up getting killed.

Eistia 2011/06/07(Tue)22:42 No. 310479 ID: fe245e
File 130751176127.png - (43.67KB , 600x600 , 644.png )

The earth dragon!? This is worse then I'd though..

Eistia starts running to the person. They look back at Eistia and run into the nearby woods.
Eistia chases after her for a while. Her legs begin shaking.

I can't go on.

"S-s-saisai."

[i]The person keeps walking ahead.

>>310479

Hm. What's in the direction she's going?

>>310479
Didn't we tell you this before? The earth dragon has been assassinating the other dragons because for every dragon that dies the rest gain MUCH more power.
He intends to exterminate all non-human life on the planet, and has already eradicated the merfolk aside from a literal handful of survivors.

We CAN'T stop him without Saisai! You HAVE to stop her from leaving or everybody will die.

[Flash Step like a boss]

>>310479
Call out to her, call her a coward. Tell her we all have to deal with fear and pain and rejection sometimes. We all have to face up to it. Heck, tell her you're scared of the dark too. She is a good person after all, she might get over herself and help you.

Remember why she is upset, she just got turned down by your brother that she'd grown dependent on. And she's running off over that. Maybe you can think of something else to say? As a girl maybe you'll have a better idea how to get through to her than us right now.

"So your bravery was just an act?! you claim you are best for brother because you are a brave warrior and then you run away!"

>>310482
I agree, try to get her to talk to you.

Also, could we ask you a favour? I know this doesn't concern you but, if you manage to get Saisai to stay, could you please be her friend? She has been through a lot, and Artemis was trying to help her open up to other people but Saisai ended up falling for him and growing dependent.

I think what Saisai needs right now is a shoulder to cry on, but neither Artenis or Morgan, the people willing to be her friends, can fill that role.

>>310482
>>310487
Hey! We don't need to drag Eistia into this quarrel between Saisai and Artemis!

Eistia, you relaying what we say is pretty much the only way for us to talk with her,
and since you are what we would call an 'uninvolved third party', could you make it clear that we are the ones saying these things?

And sorry we're kind of forcing you out into the dark here, we didn't expect to encounter Saisai.

Flash step-7 GP:89 Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)00:57 No. 310498 ID: fe245e
File 130751987372.png - (43.72KB , 600x600 , 645.png )

Eistia can't move at all.

"The g-guardians gotta know, was y-your bravery j-just an a-a-act?! you c-claim you are best for brother because you are a b-brave warrior and then you run away! C-c-coward!"

Saisai stops and turns to face Eistia.

"What did you call me?"

Well.. I know being here is REALLY scary, but so is the end of the world, right? Help us save the world Eistia, so there's still a place for you.
[Readying Flash Step DODGE]

Eistia..you know how to run away just a little bit? It's called dodging.. You maybe want a soul shield too.

dang it. how good are you with those soul blades? can you knock her out?

>>310498
Shout at her!
"You claim you're in love but you're too scared to fight for it!
No, worse than that! At the first sign it wouldn't be easy you turned tail and ran away!
You're a coward, Saisai! If you give up on Artemis now that's all you'll ever be, and you know it!"

Ready your soul shield. Don't worry Eistia, we'll keep you safe, that's what we're here for.

She's furious! Try not to get into a fight just yet, but get ready to dodge at any moment.

Now that you have her attention, tell her on our behalf that while being angry and afraid is completely normal and understandable given her circumstances, running away form her problems won't help her solve them.

She must be brave and face her fears, or else she'll never get over them. Hell, you're terrified of the dark yet ran after her!

"Cowards run from their problems. I'm scared of the dark, but I ran into it for you. Please..."

Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)03:06 No. 310513 ID: fe245e
File 130752756020.png - (52.07KB , 600x600 , 646.png )

"C-c-c-c"

Eistia drops to her knees. She sees Saisai walking towards her and lifts a trembling hand out. A soul blade starts forming around it but quickly breaks away.

"Hmph. Wimp. Tell your brother I'm going to take care of this dragon on my own. I don't need his damn help."

Saisai turns and starts walking away.

I..
I'm sorry Guardians..

I failed.

Just... just a little more? Please? Try to speak. "I need yours. Help."

She is a good person...

I don't remember seeing her eyes glow before, something isn't right.
maybe Aeryr has been inciting and using her emotional turmoil as leverage to accelerate his takeover?

Get back inside Eistia, nothing more can be done.

>>310513
Well, you might want to go say goodbye to your mother. After all, you just murdered her.

Go get Art hope it's not too late for him to stop her. You're too weak to overcome a petty fear when there are lives on the line, so we really don't have much business with you.

"you're the wimp, at least i'm trying"

[Activate ANYTHING at ANY GP cost!]

Are you holding anything on your person that might help her not be killed as an intruder as soon as she gets to light elf lands?
If so, tell her "I can't do anything to you.. but at least take this from me for your journey".

You know, one last act of bravery for your half-brother's sake.

>>310517
At LEAST shout out "COWARD! RUNNING FROM YOUR FEELINGS!"

"I am not a wimp. I'm afraid of the dark but ran after you. I faced my fears."

You did your best Eistia, and we thank you for it. One last thing, do you have any contacts in the light elf lands? If so, please tell Saisai to go meet them and where to find them: "If you are determined to go off on your own, at least let me give you a lead. Go meet [Name of contact] at [location], tell them I sent you. They may be able to help you with your dragon problem".

Later, write a letter to your contact explaining Saisai's problem and asking them to help her out. Maybe you should also warn them about the Earth Dragon's conspiracy, that's bound to get them to help, even if only out of self-interest!

Using anything that would work. Struggle-5 Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)04:01 No. 310530 ID: fe245e
File 130753088210.png - (79.10KB , 600x600 , 647.png )

"C-c-coward! You running from your f-f-feelings!"

Saisai stops and turns around.
She runs up to Eistia and lifts her up by her top.

"What the fuck would you know about my feelings? Huh? I let you live to give your brother that message but I'm beginning to rethink that decision."

She drops the wooder spear and grabs a shorter daggerlike one

The dark is scary, but you no what, compared to the dark SaiSai isn't scary...

She is in your range...
She has picked you up, she has threated you, aren't you royalty or something.

Shouldn't you get angry at this point?

Of course you'd probably be able to emobilize her with the pleasure from healing soul magic, but you might perfer to beat her up, what with her calling you a wimp and generally being insulting and a boneheaded idiot.

grab her soul and pull it out far enough that it knocks her out!
[struggle!!]

>>310530
[Struggle as needed]
"You say you love him, but you're not willing to fight for it? You're going to let her win without a fight? You're going to give up at the first challenge?
Don't back down! Don't give up! You deserve to be with the one you love, and as long as you keep at it you've got our support!"
Hold us up for her to see
"Not just me, but you've got the Dispo family artifact pulling for you too! Prove they pick winners!"

No soul grab, that would give the dragon free riegn unless you could grab the dragon's soul too.

>>310530
"I can see it. I can see it in your eyes and in your knife. I can even see it on your shirt. But I can't know, not really. I haven't lived alone, forced to fight or hide or be hurt for my entire life. I have not had everything I had achieved taken away for no fault of my own. I had not only ever opened my heart to one person just to have it crushed."

"But no matter what you feel you are running from it, you are in obvious pain, and if you face it alone it will destroy you. Not because you are weak but because it is being alone that has done this to you. You aren't alone here. Stay."

Reach out your arms a little to hold her, but don't grab her unless she comes to you.

We so should have seen this coming. *sigh* Well, hind-sight is 20/20.

Okay. Can't move. Afraid.
[Struggle more]
[Struggle more]
[Struggle for Soul-Shield]

"The guardians. They were with Art the whole time. They told me. Your father beat you. Never taught you to be anything but afraid, and to cover that fear up with anger. Art's trying to help you. He cares about you. But not the way you want. And now you're angry, and hurt, and you're afraid he's rejected you. Afraid you're going to be alone. You're going off to die, because you're to scared to deal with the pain.

I'm terrified of the dark, but I'm here, because people need me. You're running from the people that need you to silence the pain."

I really hope no one dies over this.

Struggle x 3 GP:85 Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)12:32 No. 310594 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130756156265.png - (63.39KB , 600x600 , 648.png )

Eistia brings up a full soul shield and knocks Saisai away. He legs stop trembling so much. She feels... Courageous.

"The guardians. They were with Art the whole time. They told me. Your father beat you. Never taught you to be anything but afraid, and to cover that fear up with anger. Art's trying to help you. He cares about you. But not the way you want. And now you're angry, and hurt, and you're afraid he's rejected you. Afraid you're going to be alone. You're going off to die, because you're to scared to deal with the pain. I'm terrified of the dark, but I'm here, because people need me. You're running from the people that you need to silence the pain."

"Shut up! I- ?? What the hell... Are you okay?"

Eistia feels something warm and wet hit her chest.

"??? I'm fine. Don't try to avoid the issue."

"the guardian is helping me face my fear but it can't last forever. please, come back, they are mad at artimis too."

yeah you are bleeding from the face, you alright?

>>310594
Whoa whoa, your nose is bleeding seriously. Are you going to be ok? Has that happened to you before? Let's talk some sense into Saisai so we can get you both back and healed or whatever you need.

"Do not run away. Do not be afraid. Come back with me, I am going to help you. All your friends will. Please..."

Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)13:32 No. 310628 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130756513141.png - (81.84KB , 600x600 , 649.png )

"Don't be afraid..."

Eistia collapses again.

Oh god I feel so weak...
Explanations would help you I suppose. When dark elves age we basically lose our old bodies and gain a new, more mature one. To do that our bodies kill themselves and create a new one. It's a very messy process.
It only happens when we are able to develop mentally though, and I guess overcoming my fear counted..

Saisai walks over to Eistia and picks her up.

"Oh man... Are you okay? Talk to me Eistia."

"Fine... It's a dark elf thing."

Eistia coughs up blood.

"Please... Take me somewhere safe. I'm vulnerable right now.."

"....."

Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)13:32 No. 310629 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130756514249.png - (1.49KB , 600x600 , 650.png )

Eistia faints.

Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)13:32 No. 310631 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130756516520.png - (85.48KB , 600x600 , 651.png )

Huh....?
Oh god my head... My body... My tongue feels like sandpaper..
I don't remember reading about this, I feel terrible..

Oh god I can't open my eyes..

How do I look? Am I in my Young Adult body now?

>>310631
...

...no comment.

i.. don't think so, you seem the same and covered in blood.

>>310631
Hard to tell. Need to see more for fruitful comparison. Solution - remove clothing.

Well uh... not really no. Granted it's a little hard to tell under all that blood, but unless your grown up form is very petite I think something didn't go right. Maybe because it was because you are half human? Or us helping you out with our Struggle power gave you a false reaction? Don't worry about it right now, you will be ok I'm sure. And last night you did good. Really good.

Try to speak, say "Hello?" Whatever is going on you need some help.

Nope. Your body is the same, and your eyes cannot open because they are caked in blood. Just like the rest of you. I think your Struggle may be having a few problems...

Might want to get another dark elf in here, preferably one skilled in healing.
Better safe then sorry; we don't exactly know how dark elves work.

Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)14:25 No. 310673 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130756831007.png - (94.40KB , 600x600 , 652.png )

>>310651
>>310634
>>310645
Dammit... So it was you guys who gave me that courage? Yeah if we try to use a substance to overcome our fears we get punished by our bodies instead. At least that's the way we look at it. Biologically it's just it stopping halfway through once the substance wears off. I could have died from from

>>310636
I could use a bath actually. My clothes feel terrible. Ah damn it. My underwear is beyond repair. I liked this top too.

Eistia calls out weakly for help and hears someone enter the area.

"Oh thank god you're better. You were bleeding from everywhere."

Eitsia can hear the person grabbing someone nearby and pressing it against her mouth.

"Drink, you lost a lot of blood."

Eistia drinks up.

"That's better... Thank you Saisai."

"... Let's wash you up. You look pretty bad."

She picks up Eistia and walks with her for a while.

"These need to come off, they're coated in blood."

Saisai strips Eistia and tosses her into the pool of water

"!!! You should have warned me you idiot!"

"Hmph."

Eistia goes under the water and starts washing away the dried blood. She opens her eyes.

Damn... Nothing. Anyway I'm fine now. A bit weak but good. I was hoping I'd have a new body.
Where are we?

Eistia hears someone enter the pool as well. She turns and sees Saisai stepping in.

"You bled all over me."

".... So what made you change your mind?"

"..... I don't know. I couldn't leave you behind."

"So are you coming back?"

"I haven't decided yet..."

Yeah we helped, but I think a lot of that courage was your own. Maybe you can handle the darkness a little better now.

Saisai is going to have a problem dealing with Artemis right now. I think just a little distance from him would do her good, let things cool of and reestablish herself. Remember part of the reason things got so bad is she was dependent on him too much.

This is where you come in. First you need to give her somewhere else to stay. Even if Art only stayed with Morgan, being right next to them may be... awkward. Especially at night. Giving her direct assistance with there light elf problem would help too, since she has less time to learn her magic and more effort to do it. There is somewhere a light elf man bound to a dark elf that we have met and had sorta friendly interactions with. He is our best chance if we can find them. Lastly you need to help her feel useful. She is used to training often and loved being a knight. Have her help you do night time patrols and other things.

tell her that the guardians are mad at him too and want to punish him for being a big jerk face to her.

>>310704
Wha-
Punish him?

>>310707
yeah cause he has no tact and could of at least said he would talk to morgan about it.

>>310718
If Artemis didn't think that he would be happy, or that Saisai would be happy, then talking to Morgan would only have confused the issue and ended up with something that someone didn't want. If he truly doesn't desire Saisai physically then he did the right thing.

>>310737
I think we can berate him a bit for not being smoother. I mean yeah we're a lot of it but he's responsible for what comes out of his mouth. Plus that time he missed on using the rest of the idea which should have prevented the problem. Using part of our advice without a damn good reason is worse than ignoring us or doing everything we say.

>>310737
no he just thinks liking more then one girl at once is bad. so since he decided he likes morgan he doesn't want to try. quitting before you even try is worse then quitting afterwards.

>>310673
Walk over and give her a hug.
"You're not alone anymore. You have friends who care about you and want to help.
Art was trying to do the right thing, but hurt you because he's an idiot. The Guardians plan to bash him in the nose for that, as soon as they figure out how.
The Guardians are pulling for you, Saisai, and so am I.

Oh, and the mission board isn't the plan to find a light-elf. That's got a low chance of success, but is too easy to pass up.
No, the real plan is to arrange a diplomatic entourage to the light elves and convince them to teach you.

The Guardians like you, you know, and that means a lot from the Dispo family artifact. Do you have any questions for them?"

Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)18:51 No. 310800 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130758430317.png - (43.75KB , 368x411 , 653.png )

I'm not going to hug her, I'm naked.

"You know there are people who still wish to help you, myself included. If you stick around I promise I will do my best to find a light elf who can train you. It is within my power to do such things."

"No. I... I just want to be alone."

"Why?"

"You wouldn't understand."

"I'm just as old as you are, just compact. My mind functions on the same level as yours, nothing you say would confuse me."

".... I had asked you brother earlier if he liked me. He told me to wait for a answer then less then a day later he's all over that potion girl."

"so he really hurt your feelings huh?"

"...... Yes. He did. I threatened to kill him but honestly I didn't want to. I just.... I don't know. I did something stupid and now he probably doesn't even want to be my friend let alone my boyfriend."

"Of course he won't, not with that attitude."

"Huh?"

"You make it seem like you lost some kind of contest when you weren't even really trying."

"What do you mean?"

"You're... Well you're a mean girl. He's a pretty frail guy. I could tell from his soul powers. So you need to be nice and sweet. Maybe dress up cute."

"What..? I.... I don't think I can."

"Come back with me to the settlement and I'll help you out. I have plenty of clothes and I can teach you a few things."

"......... Okay."

Eistia 2011/06/08(Wed)18:52 No. 310801 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130758434460.png - (78.11KB , 600x600 , 654.png )

-----------------------------
"Done!"

"..... I don't think this suits me at all..."

"Nonsense! You look.... 'Hot'! Very 'hot'!"

Erlkonig 2011/06/08(Wed)18:56 No. 310802 ID: 57db81
File 130758457421.jpg - (12.72KB , 378x301 , hnnnng.jpg )

Oh hey Eistia what is happening-

HNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG

i agree, she looks good. and the tail ribbon is a nice touch. need to talk to morgan first though, art feels he can't even THINK about liking someone else as long as he is dating someone. ask her to tell art to go on a date with saisai. they haven't put a ring on it yet so he can shop around still.

...Maybe it's a little much? Not that she looks bad, mind you. Just... perhaps start smaller? Something cute, comfortable, casual and still allow for all her crazy combat movement. And emphasize long term attitude adjustment too as opposed to dressing nice and trying to go charm his pants off.

By the way he had no idea Morgan was going to be here or that he would be able to see her much for a long time so waiting to answer wasn't entirely dishonest even though he did prefer her.

Also it occurs to me that we never mentioned she has light elf emotional tells in her eye color now... no idea if she even knows about it. She could already know or she might get really really upset. Be mindful of that.

>>310801
She might look hot, but she's not used to that sort of clothing. She doesn't know how to play to its strengths, so she'll end up looking and feeling awkward and foolish- that won't serve her well in romance. She needs to start with something more... halfway between this and what she normally wears.

Also, you should probably reassure her that if Artemis wasn't very interested in being at least her friend- boyfriend, well, that's for her to try or not- then there's no way that he'd be putting up with her. I mean, a huge part of his life since meeting Saisai has been going to whatever lengths he can to make her happier. That's probably why she likes him- and it is not the behavior of someone who would ever stop wanting her as a friend.

Seriously, Artemis let Morgan actually kill him and then went back to kissing her at every opportunity immediately afterward. He doesn't give up friendships for anything.

>>310801
>>310811
Saisai is(was) a noble. Surely she has some experience dressing like that, even if she doesn't like it. Either way, her focusing on getting used to it may help calm her down some.

Eistia, you're a really caring person. I'm proud and happy to have you as a charge.

We can't promise how Artemis will react, but let Saisai know we think she looks great (if very unusual).

I don't think that quite suits her... do you have a hat that would go well with it? That might help.

>>310801
"Art won't stop being your friend for anything.

You might want to befriend Morgan. You don't need to lure Art away from her if you can find her somebody she'd like better, or if she realizes Art would be happier with you, or if you want to share him then getting her support for that."

Eistia 2011/06/09(Thu)01:57 No. 310867 ID: 899d92
File 130760986015.png - (85.71KB , 516x543 , 655.png )

No, this is a perfect look for her. It brings attention to her face and breasts. It's perfect.

"Saisai, I want you to move in here with me."

"Huh?"

"I could really use a guard for night patrol and I know you were a knight. You'll have a much better room."

"I... Okay. Sure."

There, now she won't run away any time soon.

>"If we get killed I'm blaming you.."

"??"

Eistia goes to the main chamber. Inside she sees a light elf and a dark elf.

"... Hello?"

>"!! Oh, uhm... Greetings. My w... Friend noticed your flier on her way back home and... Well I know Time Magic.."

"Darling.. Eistia right? We knew your mom years ago, she helped us get together decades before you were born. I was going to pay her a visit when I noticed the flier and I figured this would be a good way to repay her generous help"

>"... Yeah. So, here I am."

What a stroke of luck!

Eistia runs back into the changing room and drags out Saisai. She explains the situation regarding the Wind Dragon and her.

>"That's terrible... I will be more then willing to help for both her and our patron dragon. I'll be back tomorrow for your first lesson."

Saisai
"Uhm... Th-thank you."

She bows. The elves bow in return and leave.

"See? If you had left you would never have met them."

".... Yes. You're right."

Things are turning out well, it makes me somewhat uneasy.

Do you guys wish to return to Artemis? I'm going to teach Saisai a bit more.

hmmm.... i think so. you are good people Eistia. good luck with your darkness fear.

>>310867
Yeah I think you can take it from here. One thing though? I know you said you couldn't do much to reverse damage done by the wind dragon but it might help if you tried. Even if it really does nothing, just a regular emotional massage session could help her loosen up.

Of course if you can find a better healer who can heal her for real... that maybe is a good looking dark elf gentleman... well, that would be just perfect, right? Just to help her loosen up.

Uh..actually I think we should watch Saisai a bit longer.

Give us to Artemis for a few minutes today, we'll check in, but stay with you. I think you've got a lotta insight we need to relearn.

Eh, he'll be fine without us a bit longer.

I kinda want to see how he does without us whispering in his head, anyway.

>>310873
Actually yeah, on second thought we could just go and get him, bring him back here and start the training. It might be interesting to help from this side of the teaching, give a different angle you know? Plus you get to see how the lovey dovey couple are getting along.

Speaking of which I trust you realize this dark and light elf are husband and wife? This is the very same guy who quested to the water dragon to receive great magic healing because his dark elf woman had gotten a cold. Cute couple, eh?

>>310867
Hey, it's those two! We met the light elf earlier, looking for a way to heal his "w... friend". Wonder what his reaction will be when he sees Artemis?

I also wonder why he's trying to hide that she's his wife. I would ask, but it seems kind of rude to just tell the person he was trying to keep it a secret from.

>>310867
Don't worry so much!
I mean, yes, of course something horrible is going to happen, but it would have happened even without this good fortune. There's no point in worrying about certainties.

I'm pretty sure we ran into these two before. I think we'll arrange for Art to bump into the wife at some point so we can smooth things over with them; he kidnapped and threatened one of Art's friends, but he was panicking over his wife having some sort of soul sniffles so we can't blame him. Honestly, we're humbled by his bravery and devotion; he attacked a squad of royal knights so he could use one to coerce a Sharaes the dragon of water into healing his wife. When Sharaes told Art what was going on Art was completely awed with respect for him.
So when you see them tomorrow would you please tell them that they're a cute couple, and they're welcome here any time?

Also, do you know what that circle-with-a-dot symbol they're wearing means?

... OH! Yes, we probably should go back to Art. We still need to break his nose for being such a jerk to Saisai, and see about working things out so Saisai's new teacher won't panic when he sees art and remembers what happened. He would probably get the wrong idea.

Artemis 2011/06/09(Thu)19:57 No. 311309 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130767466953.png - (71.12KB , 600x600 , 656.png )

Huh. A good deed has come back to repay you. If not for my brother and my mom's kind actions these two lovebirds would not have offered their help.

Now, let me take you back to my brother. I'm sure he's doing terrible without you.

Eistia walks into Morgan's Potion Shop. She sees Artemis tidying up a bit.

"Oh, hey Eistia."

I think I'll let you fill him in on what happened.

"Greetings. What happened to my new citizen?"

"Ah, right. She passed out pretty early last night. I don't really like sleeping in so I thought I'd just help out a bit. You still have the Guardians?"

"Indeed. They wish to return to you."

She hands the Guardians back to Artemis
---------------------------------

Hey guys, good to have you back.

[Minor Psionics on self, smash into his face]
you almost got saisai killed

So Art, are you dead yet? You are helping Morgan right? Shall we draw up the will? Leave us to your half sister, sword to Saisai, Morgan can have robe...

Also... did you ever mail or send your mother anything since becoming a knight? I mean, she must be worried sick if you have not.

>>311309
Oh man what a night we had th-

>>311310
Well now.
[Lighten/spread that out a little no need to actually hurt him.] Next time more more careful how you crack jokes, even ones we come up with. Heal yourself and listen up.

Saisai ran off, and trying to convince her otherwise almost got Eistia killed. But we prevented that, by almost helping her struggle through it... which almost killed her by itself. It's a little complicated but it triggered a false biological reaction particular to dark elves that could have made her bleed to death.

But in the end everything went pretty well. Saisai is staying with Eistia, and our light elf friend from before has shown up with his wife and will be teaching her time magic.

Now then, how did your night really go?

>>311314

Are you going to be a father Art, or did you use my soul-magic condom idea?

GP: -20 =90 Artemis 2011/06/09(Thu)20:56 No. 311340 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130767816425.png - (81.06KB , 515x464 , 657.png )

The Guardian flies up and smacks Artemis in the nose

OW! Sorry! I didn't know Saisai would just run off!
I did my best okay!? I'm not very good at talking to people..
I'm glad to know it all worked out in the end though, maybe they'll become friends. And now Saisai can learn Time Magic!

>>311333
What!? We didn't do that! We just talked and stuff!

Artemis hears Morgan yawn.

"Morning Arty.."

"Morning Morgan. Is it done?"

"Yep, contract is all ready. Mimi's still a mimic but you can add in any details and stuff. Anything you want me to put on it before you sign?"

>>311340
Wait wait, what exactly does it say now, and what really can we add? Let's take a few minutes to go over this, I mean we weren't even involved!

Artemis 2011/06/09(Thu)21:03 No. 311343 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130767861172.png - (45.88KB , 600x600 , 658.png )

>>311341
Nothing really. It just has her written in as a Mimic which means she can store things and has the bag function.
But she's also completely vulnerable so I can use the empty spaces to write in some rules and restrictions. They all have to be within her power though so no 'Can not ever be destroyed' stuff.
Things like 'will not open to anyone but Artemis' are allowed but that's not a guarantee either. If someone's really persistent they'll get in.

>>311343
Hmm tell you what, let's talk with Mimi about this for ideas and to know what is really within her power to do. Being able to literally talk to her through the bag or heck being able to jump into it would be awesome, but maybe not possible? It could be that she has more potential options with her new form, or with further power increases.

>>311343

3. Only Artemis can: Open the chest, get inside, put things in the bag, pull things from the bag, command Mimi.

2. Only Artemis can: Grant permission to others to be added to list 3.

1. Only those who have slept with Artemis and have received express permission can add to list 2.

if forced open she is aloud to pull out the attacker's soul, but not eat it unless art tells her to.

>>311343
Some way to make moving Mimi- her actual chest, not just her bag- more convenient would be excellent.

Also, some kind of "will be undyingly and exclusively loyal to Artemis for the duration of this contract" clause would be good. Just as a fail-safe.

>>311375
that's a bit much, would make her CLINGY AS FUCK.

Ok so in short, what can we add that isn't a rule or restriction?

>>311355
You know if we did that and Morgan noticed Mimi grant someone permission...

>>311377
She's already clingy if given the opportunity. And she's still a demon who eats souls and crap; without some kind of loyalty or obedience or do-not-harm restriction written into the contract she's ultimately quite dangerous in spite of her personality and utility.

Also I am slightly paranoid.


On another note, the contract will need an exit clause. What ends it?

>>311379
the whole master thing makes her loyal. she CANNOT disobey her owner.

>>311343
1: Art can control who can use Mimi's abilities.
2: Termination is by agreement with contract holder.
3: Mimi is to provide housing and storage for all people allowed to do so.
4: Mimi is to extend her feelings towards Art to his lovers.

as for ending the contract. You can just do mutual agreement and/or death of either master or mimic. Death breaking the contract might be implied in the contract anyway, so it's just redundant.

It'll be fine. She won't want to kill Art.

Here's a thought. Put something in the contract of what Mimi get's out of it. Like, light reading material, occasional attention, or the like. Even if it's nothing serious, I think Mimi would be very happy if you did that, since it shows great consideration for her.

>>311340
Saisai opened her heart to you and you stomped on it before walking off. We tried to stop you, but you didn't listen.

You told Morgan everything that happened with Saisai, right? You explained how she's your best friend? Did you tell Morgan about Saisai's offer to be your second wife subordinate to Morgan, and ask her how she would resolve the situation?
Did you tell her you had sex with Mimi, or did you gloss that over?

Oh, here's an important one: Did you tell her that we are a large portion of your combat capability?
Did you explain we grow more powerful the more lovers you have?

This is all information she has a right to know, since she can't make informed decisions about your relationship if you're spewing lies and half-truths.

>>311385

>>311385
Don't get to say this often, but seven made a reasonable post. However when you're telling her don't be that blunt.

Haha, that's so dumb.
The only things that you should be telling Morgan are
#1 That you can't get enough of her (obvious)
and
#2 That Saisai has a crush on you, and she's not taking rejection well.

Play it cool, kid. If you get rid of all your friends with a too liberal dosing of "the truth" then we'll probably lose power, I don't think you want that.

>>311385
>Did you tell Morgan about Saisai's offer to be your second wife subordinate to Morgan, and ask her how she would resolve the situation?
What. She said "I wouldn't mind..." in response to a joking comment that they could share him- there was no indication whatsoever that she would be subordinate in any way.

Saisai doesn't necessarily actually want to be a second lover, nor would she necessarily be comfortable in that position (particularly if it was a subordinate position)- she just saw it as a better option than not getting any of Artemis' affection at all. We saw when hanging out with Eistia that she jumped right from "he doesn't want to sleep with me" to "he doesn't want to be friends with me", right? She's conflating friendship with romance, interpreting acceptance in one as applying to the other as well an vice versa. It's a classic emotional response from someone who is afraid of rejection; the 'have sex with them and they won't leave you' logic. It would not have been healthy to go along with it, particularly on the spur of the moment like that.

Saisai might have opened her heart to him (and thereby revealed just how screwed up and desperate she is), but he certainly didn't stomp on it. She's just too emotionally screwed up to handle the least bit of rejection in a mature fashion, the poor girl.


Anyway. All that aside, telling Morgan what's going on is probably a good thing. Love is meant to be founded upon truths when possible.

Regarding Mimi's new contract, I think we should go over with her what abilities she does have.

Also, keep in mind that Myli and his minions are currently after the Dragonslayer sword. Maybe one of Mimi's duties can have something to do with hiding and/or protecting your sword form thieves?

I don't think we gain more power from more lovers. I think we gain more power from people who have more emotional attachment.

Contract ends upon agreement sounds good.

Only letting in people with explicit permission sounds good. Those seem to be two things she can do.

I'd ask to see the inside of her now if you can. She said it's about as big as a house.

Try discussing the contract in there, and asking what kind of options there are, and what Mimi can do now, so that you don't accidentally loose powers. Also ask if you can put anything in the contract to empower her further.

Ask if she can lock doors inside the house for you so that you could have a strong room only you can access, while also allowing others to live inside her too. It'd make keeping the sword safer while also allowing you to help people you don't know out.

Also, ask if she can still level up any further. If so, give her mana reserves, and 50-60 GP.

Also, yes, Art, you need to talk to Morgan about the contract, and how the last one was fulfilled in order to Save Mimi's life. If you bring it up in the context of the contract, and the life-saving, any possible damage will be minimized. This can also give you insight into how she feels about Mimi in a less than confrontational environment.

If she takes this even the slightest bit poorly, she probably will not take this 'sharing' idea well either. And I wouldn't expect her to take it well.

- Contract ends upon agreement between owner and mimic
- Mimic only interacts with people besides the owner if one of them is given explicit permission to do so (chest won't open to others and Mimi won't even acknowledge their existence)
- Mimic can not steal souls without explicit permission of the owner
- Mimic can not act in aggression except to defend themselves and their owner
- If owner dies, the contract will be passed on to whoever the mimic selects as their owner; the owner must accept the contract

This good?

>>311487
Forcing Mimi to actively ignore anyone who art hasn't said to her "i allow you interact with *persons name*" seems kinda mean.

Maybe it'd be better to just have it so she can only allow to enter her chest and give items to Art and people who Art has says is allowed to, until otherwise stated.
And that she should avoid revealing herself to people she does not know.

That way she doesn't have to act like a robot around new people.

Also, as a demon she could be a powerful combat ally once she's able to leave her chest, so I'd add an exception that she can attack people Art commands her to.

Artemis 2011/06/11(Sat)01:47 No. 311834 ID: 46fef7
File 130778203264.png - (42.98KB , 600x385 , 659.png )

I am -not- going to tell her any of that! Saisai seems to be okay now so I really don't need any advice from her. And I don't think Mimi would appreciate me telling everyone what we did. The contract is broken so there's no need to bring it up really.

So how's this sound for a contract

- Contract ends upon agreement between owner and mimic
-Mimic can cloak stored objects.
- Mimic only interacts with people besides the owner if one of them is given explicit permission to do so (chest won't open to others and Mimi won't even acknowledge their existence)
- Mimic can not steal souls without explicit permission of the owner
- Mimic can not act in aggression except to defend themselves and their owner
- If owner dies, the contract will be passed on to whoever the mimic selects as their owner; the owner must accept the contract

saisai is okay FOR NOW. what will you do if she hits on you again? pretend she doesn't exist? that would prove even WORSE as she is only being held together by the slim chance that practicing being lady like will make you like her. you reject her after all that and she will fall apart completely. inot saying run o her and have loads of sex. saying go out on a few dates or something. would at least put off the problem till later. whole point of dating is to get to know someone until you are ready to choose and you have not proposed to morgan yet. in fact, go on more dates with her too.

anyway, that sounds fine for a contract.

Saisai seems to be okay for now, eh? Have you considered that maybe we know something you don't?

We're advising that you give Morgan a heads up on how Saisai is likely to act in the coming days - unusual and focused on you. That's all you have to do, let Morgan know. She'll appreciate being aware, and probably trust you more.

You can keep the specifics/details to yourself.

The contract is pretty functional. There was nothing in the previous contract about being friendly towards her master, was there?

>>311834
You forgot the part about providing shelter/housing to allowed people, and letting other people use/pass through her bag.

>I am -not- going to tell her any of that!
Ah, ok. So you either don't trust Morgan well enough to be honest with her, or you don't respect her enough to let her make informed decisions.
Congratulations, Art. You are now officially worse to women than your father.

>Saisai seems to be okay now
WHAT?!?
SHE JUST TRIED TO KILL HERSELF AND YOU CALL THAT FINE?
[Minor Psionics on the bone in Art's nose. Break it.]

Give us back to Eistia. We're supposed to help you learn to be a better person and teach you better ways of doing things, but we can't fix stupid.

>>311834

You need another escape clause beside mutual agreement or death. A pay-off of some sort (in the event either you or Mimi doesn't want to part ways while the other does) would be suitable. Perhaps a fixed sum of gold would be good enough for the buy-out price.

The reason you need another escape clause is because there's no telling what the future may hold. This is pure contingency, to account for things we don't even know may be an issue in the future.

Be careful to outline the limits of what constitutes defending against an active threat to you or Mimi, and what actions are acceptable. Spoken threats shouldn't count. Passive dangers like a fire imp simply being in the same room, or another person being in a sealed room with a limited air supply (and thus posing a threat to Art's ability to keep breathing by simple virtue of needing some air themselves) should not count. Aggressive stances merit preparing a defense but not using it until the first strike is attempted. Stuff like that.

Be sure to word the soul stealing part so that you have to give explicit permission on a per-soul basis.

What does Mimi get out of this deal? I know she gets whatever gold and GP and mana you can invest when you have time, but the point of a contract is to make things like payments, and payment schedules, concrete.

>>311839
Hey can we not waste our GP on beating Art up?
[negate that]

GP:110 Artemis 2011/06/11(Sat)03:56 No. 311852 ID: f02631
File 130778981178.png - (96.40KB , 600x434 , 660.png )

>>311842
It's hard for demons to find loopholes in contracts since the magic for making them means our thoughts and meanings behind words are put in there as well. I'll add your additional end clause though.

Also demons usually get paid to do one specific tasks in contracts but Mimi had mentioned she took hers just so she could leave the demon world. She hated it there so she signed up to be a mimic.
Just gotta sign it and... Done! A new contract with Mimi.

>>311839 >>311838 >>311836

Okay okay I'll tell her!

"Hey, Morgan?"

"Hmm?"

"Uhm... You know Saisai right?"

"Yes."

"Well.. She's kinda been flirting and stuff with me.. And she's really attached to me, I'm like her only friend."

"Okay."

"And she said she wanted to be with me, even if it meant I'd have two lovers."

"....... Do you want two lovers?"

"No! I told her no!"

"It seems like she was desperate to me. I think you did the right think but did you say it the right way?"

"Uh.... Probably not. She tried to run away."

"I figured she would. Artemis I like you. I understand how she would feel, if you rejected me I'd want to run away to. Especially after spilling my heart out to you. She's still a bit young and inexperienced though, she's not good with her emotions."

"And I'm not exactly the best at talking to people.. What should I do?"

"Just tell her you will be her friend but you're not interested in her that way. Make it very clear that you still want to be with her, just not -like that-."

"Okay."

"Also I would have been very disappointed in you if you had agreed to such a thing."

"I figured.."

"I need to open shop, why don't you go see Mimi and give her the contract? She really misses you."

"I think I will, it's been a while since we really talked."

She gives Artemis a hug.

"You did the best you could. And don't be afraid to tell me things, okay?"

Artemis smiles

"Okay."

He goes into Morgan's room and sees Mimi. He hands her the contract

>"Yay~ A new contract with Master! We should celebrate!"

"Anything you want me to get you?"

>"All I want is you Master~"

A brief memory of the last time they were 'together' flashes through his mind.

"Uhm.. I think I'll have to decline.."

"Aww ;-;"

She does deserve something though. She's been so helpful

>>311852
Give her 100GP plus all your mana, and tell her that both Saisai and Morgan are allowed to go inside her and use her bag and stuff.
Ask how close she is to being able to let people go in through her bag, then step inside to see what her home looks like.

Oh, and did you notice that Morgan was happy you told her? It's a warm fuzzy feeling when somebody trusts you enough to tell you embarrassing things.
Likewise, it's a cold stabbing feeling when somebody doesn't trust you enough to tell you things you deserve to know.
Always remember that. Always.

Good boy Artemis.

Well, from what Mimi's said she only has one upgrade left until she can get out of the chest and walk around. That's a good present right?

[Feed Mimi small amounts of GP until that happens, max 70]

>>311852
Well, give 50 GP for another level. Then step in there and see her place, I mean she has a house in there so why not visit?

[Give Mimi 100 GP]

Also tell her she can interact with Saisai, your sister, Apple, Morgan... Anyone else?

Good show chap, good show. Telling her the truth, and trying to make sure she understood the circumstances was a good choice, and did good things for you. Follow Morgan's advice.

Also, 70-100 GP and mana reserves right now. Also, go inside the chest and look around. If you have the gold, get some inexpensive comfortable furniture, possibly stuff that folds up like futons.

-70 +5 GP:45 Mana: Very Low Artemis 2011/06/11(Sat)13:47 No. 311985 ID: f02631
File 130782525686.png - (111.55KB , 579x586 , 661.png )

okay okay.. You guys were right.

Artemis gives Mimi his mana and GP. Nothing seems to happen.

>"So close master~ Keep your power though, we can upgrade me again later. Why don't you come inside?"

Artemis steps into the chest. He suddenly finds himself in a nice sized house. The architecture seems a bit off. There are upside down staircases, others that wind into the ceiling, windows peaking out into a void.

"Nice isn't it? I made it myself. Oh! This is where I keep all the stuff Master gave me"

She points to a box labeled 'Stuf'.

"Come, I want to show you my bedroom. It's the only one in the house right now."

"Uhm... I'm not sure if I should.."

"Please~~"

>>311985
*Wolf-whistle*

wow, nice place. has that demonic touch with the non-euclidean... don't look out a windows too hard though.
anyway go with her. she knows you aren't going to do that, she probably just wants to show you something cool.

>>311985
Oh just entertain her a bit. If she tries anything, that'll be a chance to talk such things over at length.

And really, this place is pretty cool. There shouldn't be a restriction on who can walk into here other than our permission, right? We might have a real mobile base here before long.

>>311985
Oh, go ahead. She's proud of her work, and it's not like she'll force you into anything you don't want.
Besides, we need to know what sort of things we need to buy in order to make her house a home.

Say that you'll check out her room, but no naughty stuff.

Artemis 2011/06/11(Sat)14:12 No. 312004 ID: f02631
File 130782675773.png - (135.53KB , 600x600 , 662.png )

Well she doesn't need to sleep so no bed..

"Okay Mimi."

"Close your eyes."

Artemis feels a bit dizzy as Mimi leads her blind through her house. She opens a door.

"Ta-da!"

Artemis opens his eyes. The room is bare save for a few crayon drawings.

"Those are very nice Mimi"

"Thank you. I still have some older ones but I practice every day. My hands aren't very good for drawing but I try."

"What happened to that one?"

He points to one where everything is gone but a small corner.

"Oh! That was.... Nothing."

I could probably make her tell me the truth

DON'T YOU DARE. Leave it be, buddy. Change the subject.

>>312004
Say that if she doesn't want to tell you she doesn't have to.

Then change topic. Her hands aren't good for drawing? Well, her form keeps changing in response to your giving her power, and you have a contract with her now; is there any way that you could make her get better hands? Could be cool.

>>312004
No don't make her say anything. It's probably from back when you upset her, maybe a picture of the two of you together. Tell her it's ok, and that you're sorry you hurt her feelings before.

Just ask her if it was an older one or a newer one.

>>312004
Beds are also good for relaxing on. At least get her a futon or a couch with a fold-out bed or something.

"From when you were angry with me? Art is how people express themselves and their feelings, and you don't need to hide your feelings from me.
I mean, I'm horrible with feelings - I've caused people I care about a lot of pain by screwing up - but I don't want you to feel like you can't share them with me, even if they're unpleasant.

And, er... Speaking of feelings, you know that Morgan and I are in love, right? Will... Will you be ok with that? You two get along so great, but I can't tell if you're being nice to her to make me happy or if you're really ok with this. I want you to be honest with me, since I'd feel horrible if you were suffering in silence for my sake."

Don't -make- her. But I do think you should -encourage- her.

Tell her that you'd like to know, and that you've learned that hiding your feelings from those that you care about doesn't help things, it hurts them. Like with Saisai keeping things bottled up inside, or your not telling her that you'd rather be with Morgan. Or when Mimi refused to talk to you before, and how it could have hurt your friendship.

If she still doesn't want to tell you, then respect the decision and move on.

Also, would one of the future upgrades make her better at drawing? How do you move around the house? Also, look the house over and decide where you will be sleeping if you need to sleep in here, and get a futon for it.

Artemis 2011/06/11(Sat)15:00 No. 312031 ID: f02631
File 130782964080.png - (104.68KB , 600x600 , 663.png )

Her hands have been pretty much the same this whole time.

"If you really don't want to tell me then that's okay. But keeping things bottled up isn't good for you either."

Mimi looks away. she feels beneath another piece of paper and pulls out another drawing.

"I made this... After we..."

She looks at Artemis.

"I know you did it to save me and everything but..."

She sighs and puts the drawing away.

"Well, that's the grand tour! Is there anything else you want me to add master?"

>>312031
Oh god

I feel like shit now

>>312031
Oh, give her a hug.
"More bedrooms? Maybe a toilet and shower? Or a kitchen?
I'll get some furniture so it'll be more home-y - would you be interested in some kind of bed?
Would you be ok with other people living here too? Saisai, for example? Maybe Morgan in the future?"

tell her it's very sweet. and you don't mind if she left it up.

>>312031
"I don't regret what we did, even for an instant."

There's not much more to say than that, so change topic, I guess. "How are you planning to make it better? What can you add if you want to?"


>Her hands have been pretty much the same this whole time.
They have been in the past, but that doesn't mean they have to stay that way. Her physical form is clearly at least somewhat mutable, if you can just figure out how to change it.

>>312031
Hug! Tell her you're sorry and you really do want her to be happy. You've been all she's had and there was little chance of being with anyone else. But you are going to make sure she knows many people and makes many friends, people she can be with.

Hmm.. I wonder if Morgans fathers demon is a nice guy...

Well, you're glad you saved her. Tell her so. And remind her you care about her. She gets that you don't want her -that way- by now. Reaffirming the positive part is about the best you can do. Also, telling her you think the drawing is sweet, and don't mind if she leaves it up is an okay idea too.

I agree with the hug.

Bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, strong-room.

A pool would be nice, but that's way too luxurious for now, especially when you're still working on basics.

Yea, at least ask her about the hands thing. I mean, we don't know much about demons and neither do you. For all we know, she might know things that just don't occur to her to tell us unless we ask.

I know we would like to get more stuff for here, but how much money do we actually have? We'll get some cash from doing jobs, but we need to devote a lot of time towards learning magic, so beyond our cost of living, I don't know how much spare money we're going to have.

While we're here, make sure you give her permission to interact with the usual suspects. Morgan, Saisai, and Eistia.

Another thought - although she is a very different person, her situation really is the same as Saisais. Except Saisai has at least the opportunity to go out meet other people.

>>312062
that's also why mimi leaned to deal with it. mimi HAD to keep interacting with art while saisai could just run from it.

Artemis 2011/06/11(Sat)16:26 No. 312077 ID: f02631
File 130783476696.png - (49.75KB , 466x471 , 664.png )

Artemis hugs Mimi.

"I never regretted it Mimi. You've been such a great friend, my first friend."

She smiles and hugs him back

"So what can you do? Like what kind of rooms can you make"

"Just about anything. I can make a kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms. It'll be pretty basic though. Just tell me what you need when I update and it's yours."

"Will do. Also what about your hands? Can they like be changed?"

"Nope. I was born with these and they'll be here to stay. After a thousand years I'm used to them, there's no real need to write where I'm from though"

Artemis hears a voice that seems to come from everywhere at once.

>"Artemis it's me Morgan. Eistia says Saisai wants to see you."

>>312077
...maybe if she had telekinesis she could hold the pencil with her mind?

Say goodbye to Mimi for now. We gotta go and get beat up by Sasai.

uhh... hmmm, how do we get out?
and saisai is probably going to be dressed very nicely and ask you out on a date or something. do you have any ideas on what you are going to say to her that will make her understand that while you think she is a great person you don't love her THAT way?

>>312077
Huh you can hear her everywhere, that's neat. Head on out I guess, we'll talk about house planning later.

Okay. Remember the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and strong-room for later, and head out to see Eistia and Saisai. Also, be sure not to string Saisai along, but try to be gentle.

Also, I notice you never told Morgan about how you freed Mimi. You really should talk to her about it, but now is not the time.

Also, remember you have those shields. No letting her hit you if you get violent. If she's not violent, feel free to compliment her if something looks complement worthy, but try not to ham it up, or let it get mistaken for a romantic comment... if you can.

Artemis 2011/06/11(Sat)20:42 No. 312209 ID: 6dcbfa
File 130785012653.png - (60.32KB , 478x498 , 665.png )

How do I get out..?

The moment the thought pops into his head he is thrown out of the chest.

"Artemis!"

Morgan runs over and helps him up.

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah..Thanks. I'll be back."

He hugs her and leaves the shop. It doesn't take long for him to spot Saisai.

Woah... That looks really nice on her.

"Hey, Saisai!"

She turns to him.

"Oh hey Artemis."

"You look really nice."

"Thanks..."

"...."

"...."

hold your arms open and tell her "get it over with so we can go back to being friends"

Apologize for not handling things better, and for hurting her feelings, and say you still want to help her and be there for her.

A hug would be good too if she lets you.

Do the "pull my finger" joke with her some time. Not right now, but soon.

>>312209
Saisai is thinking that maybe, if you see her as nicer and prettier you'll be more attracted to her. That uh, might be pissing the point a bit.

You need to sit own with her and talk a long time about things. Don't even ask questions, just sit her down and ask her to talk about what she is thinking and how she's feeling.

>>312218
Agreed. Also tell her that you are an idiot at people stuff (You-Artemis. Not "you" Saisai.), that she's your best friend, and that she would have to do something horribly malicious for that to change.
Also, tell her that you aren't in love with her but you still love her a lot, and the only difference is physical intimacy.
Tell her you like hugging her and scratching behind her ears, but you both need to talk with Morgan to work out boundaries.
Yes, I am being serious. Working that out fixes her standing with you so she won't feel lost or uncertain, establishes that people are respecting and trying to accommodate her feelings, and she won't be nearly as hostile towards Morgan if she sees her as partially sharing you.
The boundaries are probably going to wind up being "No kissing, no sex", so you don't need to worry about anything uncomfortable.
Do it now, since waiting is a bad idea.

Oh, that reminds me. You never told Morgan we grow more powerful the more intimate relationships you have.

>>312232
I think it's ok if we are a comfort to her, hugs and massages and whatnot. But her thinking she is "sharing" us is exactly the wrong approach. It will cause problems and won't help her be independent of Artemis. She really really needs to open herself up to others.

If these two are going to get together, it'll be after a long while and changes in both of their lives and relationships. If you love someone, let them go~

>>312249
Right now she needs an emotional anchor more than anything, and that's something for which Art would be perfect.
She went from being a puppet to being free and having choices, and with her impulsive nature she needs somebody keeping her stable until she can at least survive without somebody pulling her strings.

She tried to run off and die last night; don't even try to tell me she doesn't need stability.

Artemis 2011/06/12(Sun)01:08 No. 312288 ID: f02631
File 130786607113.png - (55.65KB , 285x439 , 666.png )

"Saisai... I'm sorry about what I said before. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings."

"It's okay. Can I talk to you for a second?"

She and Artemis sit down on a bench.

"I'm sorry about what I did. I was talking to Eistia and... Well I'm going to try and make more friends. I... Think we need some distance from each other. She said it isn't good for me to cling onto one person and I agree. So I'm going to do my Time Magic training and you'll do your Soul Magic training. And... I'll see if there's anyone else out there for me. Sorry."

Wow. My sister is pretty good.

"Well Saisai if you ever need anything I'm always going to be there for you."

"Okay. Well... Bye"

She gets up and walks away.

.....
I actually feel kinda sad about that.

yeah see, that's cause while you may not be IN love with her you do still love her, many levels of love, ya see.but in the long run it will be good for her. you were her ONLY friend so she clung to you like a drowning person to a lifeguard. but what they are too hysterical to realize is they are dragging their rescuer down too because they aren't letting them move properly. it's very complicated.

anyway, try thinking of a big fire.

It's ok, this is for the best. It's not like you two won't ever see each other, and when she's feeling a bit more self confident you won't be so distant. And remember, we'll be there with Eistia sometimes to watch her too.

...But I think a hug just then would have been ok. Another day. For now you both need to focus on training, and her much moreso. Speaking of that we should go get to it.

We'll miss her too, but it's much better to miss someone than to witness their self-destruction.

Anyway, what's next? Save the shadow dragon? Make-out with your girlfriend? Both valid choices.

>>312288
Poor Saisai; I'm going to really miss her.
Of course you're sad, Art. Your best friend just said she wants to go away and try to find other friends.

You should probably run after her, give her a hug, tell her she's your best friend, and tell her that you're going to miss the hell out of her.

After that, go spend some time with Morgan. Kiss her, tell her you love her, and sit behind her store's counter cuddling with her.

Of course it's sad! We'll miss her too. But this is probably the best for everyone involved. With your sister's help, Saisai will learn to trust other people and become more self-confident, and you'll be able to pursue your relationship with Morgan without worying about hurting Saisai's feelings.

Eistia really saved our collective butts right there. You should thank her as soon as you meet her for today's lesson.

For now you should go back to Morgan, and let her know what happened.

>>312295
Oh, also, Art? Learn Soul Bind after shield, blade, and heal.

>>312304
...you'd better ask what Soul Bind DOES before you learn it.

Artemis 2011/06/12(Sun)03:33 No. 312310 ID: f02631
File 130787482296.png - (15.15KB , 153x489 , 667.png )

She's already gone now. She's still a great friend and I really hope that she meets up with others.

Anyway I need to train. I can't learn soul magic with voices giving me romantic advice all day. just kidding!
I'm putting you up for now, see you all in a bit.

Chapter 10.5 A week later Eistia 2011/06/12(Sun)03:37 No. 312311 ID: f02631
File 130787502113.png - (51.35KB , 600x600 , 668.png )

Guardians...? You there?

Sigh...

Being a leader is hard.

No one respects me because of my body, they all think I'm still a child. I'm almost an adult! My stupid body just needs to catch up. I've been trying to face my fear but it's too much.
That plus training my brother AND helping Saisai socialize has me drained and stressed.

>>312311
Say it with me:
VA-CA-TION

>>312311
Sounds like you need your mother to get back so she can take some of the load off you.
Any idea when that will happen?
Are people just failing to show you proper respect, or is there actual unrest and disregard for your authority?

How's Art's training going? Saisai's time magic? Saisai's socialization?

As far as your fear goes, I have an idea.
Go get Art to let you into Mimi's house, ask her to wrap her arms around you for comfort and turn the lights down until you get uncomfortable, then keep the lights at that level until you calm down.

>>312314
>Make out with girlfriend

This is Eistia we're talking about she's not a lesbian.

As far as I know.

actually, that mimi idea has some merit. she has perfect rather good control over what goes inside there. and she may be able to make a hot tub. just need art to dunk the bag under the water to fill it up.

Nice to meet you again!

Sorry about dumping all those new responsibilities on you, but we didn't know anyone else who could help us. We are really grateful for what you've done.

Maybe we could help you overcome your fear of the dark (without using our powers, of course).
If the gradual exposure approach is too much for you, talking about your fear might help. Try to think about the reasons behind your fear. Are you afraid of what could be hiding in the darkness? Of not being able to see what's around you? Did you have a bad experience in the past?

>>312311

Just jack off, you'll feel better afterward. It's like a mini-vacation. In your bed.

>>312320
you wonder why art gets fed up with us sometimes? things like that.

Lesigh. I don't think she needed to abandon Art completely to find new friends. Saisai needs to stop doing -everything- to extremes. Still, best she's still looking to find other friends.

Well it'd be helpful to know what kind of disrespect we're talking about, but it sounds like getting you your adult body is a good thing whatever the detailed status is. And overcoming fear of the dark is a good thing besides that.

First of all, I'll point out that some small amount of fear of the dark is healthy. Having people tell you that a reasonable fear is unreasonable really doesn't help.

It makes sense to fear the dark, very strong strangers who swagger to show off their strength or use intimidating bodylanguage (especially being in enclosed spaces with them), snakes, spiders, heights... and the dark.

Some level of fear reminds us of real dangers, or disadvantages that we have to defending ourselves in certain circumstances.

Remember that overcoming a fear does not mean that you have none, only that you can act and make healthy decisions despite that fear.

So let's see if we can help get you to the point where your fear is just a reminder of things, rather than a controlling force in your life. Okay?

First of all, I agree that the gradual approach, coupled with comfort or distraction are great ideas. So let me ask you this princess, what are some of your favorite things to do? What do you find wildly fun? Comforting?

I like the idea of hanging out in Mimi's chest with Mimi... but why stop there? You could easily get some of your friends, introduce them to Art and Morgan, bring over some nice comphy furnature to put in Mimi, and all sit around talking and having fun while she lowers the lights.

You could bring a table and some of your favorite food, or some comfort foods to help make the chat more enjoyable and more comforting. You could also bring some games. Card games, board games, stuff that takes a while would be a great idea.

You could invite Saisai and her trainers over too, if you and she don't feel that she needs total separation from Art, something that I think would be a bad idea.

Keep in mind that this gradual approach doesn't need to happen over night. This could be the first of many sessions. And if you wind up being comfortable in an area only a little dimmer than you were before, it'd still be a success.

Another thought is that you could get some light sources for your palace that can dim, rather than only being on/off. There are some kinds of oil lamps that can do that, if I recall. You turn a nob to slowly reduce the aperture that allows the flow of the burning fuel into the space where it intersects with air, thus reducing the size of the flame, and thus reducing the amount of light it sheds.

Also, what is that you are laying on?
It looks like a stuffed animal or something of the sort.

I can see you getting overwhelmed with both teaching Saisai to deal with people and to teach soul magic to Artemis, if you are going it alone. But you are a leader of a bunch of other people who can use soul magic.

Why are you still doing this all by yourself?

Look you just need to call in a couple dark elf friends of yours. Different teaching methods will do Art good, and if Saisai needs to deal with people, nothing about more people will be a bad idea. How has their progress been so far?

Eistia 2011/06/12(Sun)17:51 No. 312512 ID: 0307ca
File 130792627783.png - (50.23KB , 349x413 , 669.png )

>>312320
What? Pervert. I'm a lady, I don't do such things.

>>312356
I can do this just fine on my own. Artemis has been making a lot of progress and can now maintain a full soul shield for quite some time. Now he's working on Blades.

Saisai on the other hand is struggling. It is only natural as Time Magic is not something many mortals can grasp. They have enough trouble accepting time's normal speed. She has made progress talking to others. A few friends of mine and her all had lunch and she seemed to enjoy it. One of my guards was even asking me about her.

>>312328
It is more then a stuffed animal. He is my companion and has always been with me. He also doubles as an amazing body pillow. I call him Oscar.

And no my people do not disrespect me, they simply still see me as a child. I suppose I am in dark elf terms but I should be going through my change any time now. I was so close last time..

I tried dimming the lights, my torches can do that easily enough, but it didn't work. I can never make it past a certain level.
I feel as though someone is watching me, waiting for the right moment to devour me.

... I wish there was an easier way to do this.

Eistia 2011/06/12(Sun)17:51 No. 312513 ID: 0307ca
File 130792629129.png - (48.75KB , 340x463 , 670.png )

Saisai enters the room.

"Eistia there's a problem. I understand time magic a bit better now and Teacher said I'm ready to cast a spell but I have hardly enough points to cast even the simplest of spells."

>>312512
>What? Pervert. I'm a lady, I don't do such things.
I would say that attitude evinces an unhealthy level of repression, but I suppose your body is still a child's. You're probably not developed enough yet to need that sort of physical satisfaction for your mental health.


>I feel as though someone is watching me, waiting for the right moment to devour me.
Well, you probably know already how irrational that is. That said, the nature of irrational paranoia that someone is waiting in the dark makes it kind of hard to disprove and thereby face your fear.

Still... not sure how much you can do, beyond making it past that level you can't cross. Or being pushed past that level, preferably under controlled circumstances when someone else is there for reassurance.


>I understand time magic a bit better now and Teacher said I'm ready to cast a spell but I have hardly enough points to cast even the simplest of spells.
Yeah, well, that's been a problem since day 1. It was one of the first things that came up when the study of time magic was discussed. Hasn't she been thinking about how to overcome it?

Damn, the light dragon warned us about this. Basically if she wants to get more time points, she needs to get them from somewhere else. unfortunately the only known way to do this is by using a light elf soul bind to share time points with someone else. Binding her soul to a light elf's for all eternity. As you might guess that is a problem. Even if she could do it with someone who isn't a light elf, asking her to do that bind is a real big deal.

We really need to try to find some other option. All I can figure is the dragon in her could have all the time points she needs, if we could access them somehow. Just not by soul binding her to Aeryr! Maybe an item or something can help, I have no idea.

Let's go talk to her teacher, I guess.

yeah, she has an old soul jammed in her body, using it somehow would be a big help.

well Eistia, with mimi she can help by getting you past that point and still keeping you safe, her house is her own little world, only that which she allows can come in.

There is that time point problem, and we did know about it. Other than finding a place to get the points... not many ideas.

Perhaps we could find a way to convert guardian points to time points and give them to Saisai through you or Artemis?


A world with summoned demons, she can do magic, she is a princess, and the child of a man that slew the guardian of her people, and you call the fear irrational. She may actually be sensing something. It may be irrational, but then it may not be.


Oscar's kind of cute. Does he have any magical abilities? Have you had him tested for any? Just to be sure.

Out of curiosity, do dark elves have any powers related to darkness? And are there any examples of half-dark-elves in the past gaining their adult bodies? Are there any complications you might need to prepare for?

>>312517
Treating this as a legitimate concern is the proper response.
Calling it irrational doesn't make her any more comfortable, and dismissing her concerns about things that shouldn't exist is... Well, those who live in glass housings and all that.

Eistia, what can you tell us about this guard? Has Saisai shown any interest in him?
Actually, how is Saisai handling her feelings for Art?
OH! Also! What's the difference between the Light Elf and Dark Elf soul binds? We know that only the Light Elf bind shares time points, but the other differences are a mystery.

Actually... do we have a soul?

>>312567
Actually, is there a way to dissolve a soul bind? Do it just long enough for her to learn Time Magic, then back out of it?

>>312567
Actually, is there a way to dissolve a soul bind? Do it just long enough for her to learn Time Magic, then back out of it?

Eistia 2011/06/12(Sun)20:44 No. 312575 ID: 0307ca
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I am not a child! I can just control myself okay!? I can do... -That- whenever I want to!

>>312557
No Oscar is just a normal pillow. And no Dark Elves have no power relating to darkness itself.
As a half dark elf I really don't have any limitations. My Dark Elf blood is stronger then the human part and I have no limitations on my abilities. As for whether I'll be able to age as easily.. Well there's only one way to find out.

Mimi's place sounds ideal now that you mention it. If it is indeed it's own pocket plane then there is nothing to worry about.

>>312567
I don't really know much about the guard myself, my mom had hired him years ago. His name is Caius. They've been talking lately but since I am not a stalker I do not know the full details of their relationship. She also seems to have become better with Artemis. The two of them have seen each other and said hello. She doesn't talk about him much.

Also I have no idea about Light Elf binds, sorry.

"There is always a Bond"

"No, that's out of the question. I won't be mated for eternity to someone I have no feelings for."

"I'm afraid there is no other choice. I have no artifact that could give you Time Points nor do I know of any alternative methods."

"I can't do that... There's no one I like that much."

"Time is running short Saisai. If you do not do this you will die. You need time points badly. A dark elf, light elf, or even a demon could provide more then enough."

"I can't... Being with someone for all eternity is pretty deep stuff. I would prefer it be with someone I like."

"What about Caius?"

"Wh-what!? N-no! He's just a friend!"

She's protesting too much. It's cute.

Cuteness aside she's in a rather troublesome situation and I can think of no way out of it.

>>312575
So ask her Light Elf trainer about their binds.
Actually, could you press us into Saisai's hand for a few moments? She didn't repel us that forcibly last time, and talking to her directly would help.
[Attempt to let Saisai be a holder, using as many GP as it takes]

what about us? i dunno what would happen but binding to us could have some weird effects. have at LEAST 2~3 points in here if sable was our only owner before art. if passed down to him from HIS father then we could have a LOT.

>>312577
[sure, this]

>>312575
I'm still inclined to think that drawing on the dragon inside her somehow is the answer. I know that Artemis is able to use certain of the shadow dragon's powers at essentially no cost to himself, as long as she's willing to go along with it. Whether Saisai would be able to do something similar with powering her time magic, I don't know- but it's at least worth a shot, if she doesn't want to bind to anything.

>Also I have no idea about Light Elf binds, sorry.
Yeah you see, that's a thing. We don't even know if dark and light elves bind the same way. We need to know just what works and what doesn't, and if there is any way to weasel out of the eternity thing. That means asking that light elf. Is he still around?

What can you tell us about the dark elf bind? The creation process and effects and whatnot.

>>312577
Actually, no. Go press us into Morgan's hand.
[Spend as much GP as it takes to let Morgan hold us]

Eistia 2011/06/12(Sun)21:31 No. 312590 ID: 0307ca
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>>312582
The Light Elf is gone by now. He Warps away when he is done teaching her.
You ask about Dark Elf binds? It is simple, two souls are intertwined completely and utterly. It allows you to know what the person you are bound to is thinking and strengthens soul magic cast upon one another. It also ensures that if the two of you die you will find one another again in the next life. There are two stages to a Bind. The Temporary Stage and the Permanent Bind. Do not be fooled by it's name, a Temporary Bind is still just as lasting as a Permanent one. It -can- be broken by extremely strong Soul Magic or the complete and utter destruction of one of the bound couples souls. You achieve a Permanent Bond when you and your lover prove your knowledge of one another. The exact methods on how to do this are unknown to me however. My mother said she would inform me of it later.

>>312581
If Brother is able to use his dragons powers then it would stand to reason that Saisai would be able to. The problem is the dragon in question is Aeryr and he has not be known for his kindness in the past.

>>312577
Eistia presses the Guardian against Saisai's hand. For a moment nothing happens, then it flies away from her hand.

Oh god!

Eistia tries to cut the string of the Guardian, it proves too tough for her blades. After a moment it falls back into place.

We are not going to try that again...

"Are you okay?"

Eistia nods.

"Tomorrow we need to sit down with Teacher and try to find an alternate source for Time Points."

"Agreed.. Oh, did he mention what Light Elf soul binds are?"

"He did, a bit. He said the spell for them binds two people for all of eternity. Not only in this time but in the past and future as well. Time will rewrite itself so the two are always together and have always been. That's about all he told to me."

That... That seems pretty serious. If only there were someway she could get those Time Points without having to bind or grow old.
I can not think of anything.

>>312590
Suggest that she bind with Art, then. Say it won't resolve the time point problem, but having Art as a lifelong friend would certainly make her happier and better adjusted.
Also, that we guardians would have a lot more options for getting her the time points she needs if she were bound to Art.

wait, does the light bind only make them lovers or could it just bind them as friends?

>>312590
>The problem is the dragon in question is Aeryr and he has not be known for his kindness in the past.
He doesn't have to be kind, just rational. Saisai learning time magic will get him loose faster than Saisai not learning time magic. Ergo, if he wants to be resurrected as quickly as possible the most sensible thing for him to do is throw his all into helping her learn it. Inflicting additional time imprisoned and miserable upon himself for no better reason but petty spite would be idiotic.

could also see if mimi could grab Aeryr's soul and pull it off of saisai's.

>>312590
Perhaps Mimi can do something? We could change her contract so that she could convert GP to TP.

What Aeryr really wants is a soulless but fleshy receptacle that he can mould however he wants.

I think between Artemis' (limit break #2) ability to heal a body completely from death without a soul, combined with some truly expert Soul Magic to drag Aeryr out of Saisai and into that body. It could work. It seems like the simplest thing to do, and you've got almost all the ingredients: #1 Artemis, #2 Lots of Dark Elves (some of which must be experts).

So all that's left is to find something (recently dead?) that Aeryr could occupy and use to grow in power.

We know Saisai doesn't want to be bound to a light elf. The other problem is, what if no light elf wants to be bound to her?!

So that's my idea, Eistia.

As for helping you? Maybe you need to be reminded of how much you really want it. Sure, you'll get to be treated as responsible, but what you really want is to kiss all the boys, isn't it?
This is the kind of short-sighted goal you really need, because it's going to be a lot more real to you than 'maturity'.

>>312590
Wow. Um... sorry about that! I really wish we had a bit more freedom about who we could help and how. Not to mention control of our flying around.

Ask Saisai what the simplest of time spells involve, and how many years of time points do we need for it? That'll at least give us an idea on how far we need to go to do this. I'm assuming she looked into this already.

About Art using Ombras power, it isn't just a matter of her but us triggering them. She grants a power of a shadow shield, it doesn't actually cost us anything but uses us to trigger it. So an item like us, or maybe some other sort, could maybe interact with her dragon in a meaningful way and access time points despite not directly having that kind of power.

Similarly Artemis' female form exists because of her presence, but we have spend our power to get him to change. We do that when we need him to be a warrior instead of a mage. Otherwise it only comes about at times of great distress. Saisai has a similar situation, just before she was possessed, Aeryr turned her form into a 12 year olds. Later she turned back into an adult, but sometimes relapses into a 12 year old form when upset. I'm not entirely sure which form is the natural one now...

>>312610
Actually, depending how fast he is breaking her down it might be far faster for him to just take her over and be done with it. The thing is if he does that he'll be stuck with a human form, and if Saisai learns time magic properly he can be reborn as a true dragon. So if we are going to sell him on helping us, it will be for that reason.

One thought I have had, is to wonder if all of Ombra is in Artemis. Eistia is also the child of the slayer of the Shadow Dragon.

Eistia, is there a way to check and be sure that all of Ombra is in Art, or that none of her is in you?

If you are sensing a feeling of dread of the dark, that something wants to kill you, that might be why. I doubt it. But if you've got this feeling, it's a good idea to start examining it, and possible causes.

Also, did you have any particularly bad experiences in the dark when you were younger?

As for binding her to Art, that may not be the best idea. She's already trying to learn not to be dependant on him. And what kind of history re-writes are possible. Might she become his sister? Childhood friend that he wound up dating? His female side but with a different personality? We need more info before that could really be reasonably suggested.

Is it even possible? It could be that the bond must be performed by one of the people in the coming bond.

>>312672
Ombra got into Artemis by hiding in us and jumping over once we were near him, so I sincerely doubt there's any of her in Eistia.

As for soul binding Saisai to Artemis... well, it might make it possible for her to use us, but I think I'll classify it as a bad idea all the same. What we need to do is find a way to negotiate with Aeryr, but since she can't hold us we'll have to either have a dragon temporarily make him dominant or blindly make arguments in favour of him helping her and hope he finds one reasonable enough to start cooperating. If we had something to bargain with we could use that, but the only thing I can think of that we have and he wants is the sword, which we obviously can't give him.

Also, since I've been wondering if this would work, [Change Gender on Saisai]. Who knows, since Artemis's female form was apparently influenced by Ombra, maybe Saisai has another form that has extra time points or something.

>>312672
Learning to not be dependent on Art would be a moot point. Their histories would be rewritten so that they would have been close this entire time, and since Art would no longer be her first friend after decades of isolation nor this white knight that swooped in and saved her from all sorts of horrible things the causes of her dependency would be gone.

More to the point, I think Saisai doesn't want him as a lover so much as she wants to always be with him and is willing to do whatever it takes to get that. Binding would give her that assurance without the need for becoming his lover.

Eistia, would you at least mention to her that it's something she could try? If she wants to always be Art's friend without worrying about Morgan ruining that, then she should consider it.

Also? It's not a bad idea for them to DISCUSS.

Eistia, if Art can make a blade (even a crappy one) then could you move on to other things? Soul Heal and Soul Bind are things he should start learning.

Wait wait... is Saisai confirmed to actually have nearly no time points, or was the amount only figured at because of her age? What I mean is with that dragon in her if she tried to cast a time spell it just might work.

Go on ask her to try it. If it doesn't work then speak at her but actually address Aeryr when you speak. Tell him if he can help her with time points, he can be reborn properly in dragon form. Then have her try again.

About this bond. Do the two people involved in the bond remember the differences in how time has worked out? Does anyone else? Or is it like it's always been that way for everyone? Do they remember that the current world is a result of a bond? If not, do they even know that they are time bonded?

Eistia 2011/06/13(Mon)22:06 No. 313022 ID: f02631
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>>312672
I had no prior bad experiences involving the dark. I don't know what may have triggered my fear.

Let us try something..

"Saisai, I'm going to try and pull out Aeryr to talk to him"

"Huh? Can you do that?"

"I don't know but it's worth a try right? Maybe we can convince him to spare some time points."

".. Go for it."

"Okay. This may sting."

Eistia's soul forms around her hands. She plunges her soul hands into Saisai's torso. She grasps onto something and pulls out Saisai's soul. Saisai's blue soul is tinged green. Soon the green forms the head of Aeryr.

Interesting. I didn't expect to be taken out. Do not try to rip me off of her or a good portion of her soul will go with me.

"I don't intend to do that. I have an offer for you. Give this girl your time points and you'll be freed."

Or I could take over her body.

Saisai is freaking out and gasping for air. Her body seems to be paralyzed from Eistia's actions.

Well would he rather take over her body and be stuck in it, or spare some points for her training and the spell to get him out, healed, and on his own as a dragon again. Really, important point here.

And I don't think he needs to give her all of his points. Just provide them to her here and there as a part of her training and to free him.

It'd be nice for Saisai to have them, but that's not something that should be a hard bargaining point.

need to make this quick
"do it our way and you will have a true dragon body faster. your way will involve having to warp her body to what you want for who knows how long."

>>313022
"You could... but it's taken Ombra twenty years to warp her host even far enough to take him over for a few hours at a time. It would almost certainly be much faster to just let her get you out on her own."

"Also, Artemis still has a dragon-killing sword, and he'd probably just come after you again if you effectively murder his friend."

"This way is easier."

"Well, I suppose you could do that, but the possessor of the dragon slayer cares very deeply about Saisai. It would be a shame if he were to kill you in retribution while he's too grief-stricken to care about the long term effects of your death."

>>313022
I don't think he's, uh.... I think he somehow misplaced a few screws. A few cards short of a deck, eh.

>>313022
"Does the wind dragon really want to be stuck with an earthbound form? Does the master of time not know patience? When she masters time magic, and she will if you let her, you will be reborn properly. How is that not in your best interests?"

What is she doing?

Eistia 2011/06/13(Mon)22:55 No. 313052 ID: f02631
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"Well, I suppose you could do that, but the possessor of the dragon slayer cares very deeply about Saisai. It would be a shame if he were to kill you in retribution while he's too grief-stricken to care about the long term effects of your death. Not only that but it might take you a good dozen years or so."

.... Fine. I am not doing this to help the vessel.

Eistia lets go of Aeryr and he snaps back into Saisai. She takes a deep breath.

"Oh man, that felt terrible."

"I can imagine. Now try to use time magic. Something simple."

Eistia 2011/06/13(Mon)22:56 No. 313054 ID: f02631
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Saisai points at a chair.

"Warp"

A chunk of the chair vanishes.

"Great! It's not perfect but that's a start!"

It seems everyone is making good progress. Aeryr will help Saisai with her time points and Artemis is making headway with his spells as well.

now i'm worried. when something goes too well something bad always happens to balance it. it;s annoying.

>>313054
Well, with that dealt with, I suppose that your problem is next on the list to overcome. Want to drop by and see Mimi, since it sounded like that was the next idea to try on that front?

Wow, that was amazing!

What happens if Saisai casts "Age" on you? Does that allow you to skip to young adult in that exceedingly messy fashion?

>>313058
if we are doing that let's invite saisai too. get a first hand chance to see how she deals with art and morgan.

Excellent! Since we aren't involved with her training directly please ask her what kinds of spells she knows about so far and lets see what she can do right now. Because we're curious, of course.

And after that it's time for your training. Head over to Morgans so you can say hi to everyone and jump in a Mimi's chest.

>>313056
Relax, that event with Aeryr just now should meet our weirdness quota for the day. I mean, it's not like nothing of interest happened in the week between Artemis taking us off and Eistia putting us on today, right?

>>313059
That would probably result in a lot of blood again.

Eistia, I think you're gonna need to overcome your fear by facing it because you HAVE TO. Like, someone would have to be in danger, probably. When you were talking to Sasai in the dark that would have been a good chance... but we blew that for you, sorry. Though... how about next time you try to face the darkness, remember that feeling of courage we gave you. If you can draw on that experience you may have a better chance.

>>313064
The blood is just part of the process and she should be healthy enough to deal with it right now. Messing up the process is what is dangerous and possibly fatal. Skipping the process with time magic is a complete unknown and I'd rather not risk it.