Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)12:54 No. 641861 ID: 05171d
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“It can only be as beautiful as my muse.”

It is quiet on a spring afternoon, the wind making the trees hiss and the old barn wood creak. The shadows of leaves shimmer and dance amid the beams of sunlight seeping through the cracked wood. The hay is itching my back, but that’s just alright.

> "Will you sing a song about me? I want to hear you sing me name."

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)12:54 No. 641863 ID: 05171d
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“Yes. Of course sweetheart. Your name. Your name, which is… uh…”

>>641863
Marigold.

silvie

Guadalupe

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)13:39 No. 641880 ID: 05171d
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When I saw you standing there,
first I saw your eyes
glistening with stories to be told.
I never saw a maid so fair,
nor been so mesmerized.
With one look my heart was sold.
I want to meet you…

Mari…gold?

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)13:39 No. 641881 ID: 05171d
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> “Is… is all that true, Enzo?”

Smooth.

“Every word, but you just need to look into a pond and see what I see to believe it.”

This is in the pocket.

> “I don’t need to be back home for a few more hours, maybe-”

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)13:40 No. 641882 ID: 05171d
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> “ENZOOOOOOOOO!”

> “Who’s that?” asks Marigold.

“No one. I mean, I didn’t even hear anything.”

> “ENZO! MOM TOLD ME TO COME GET YOU!”

There is a loud knock on the barn door. Well, there goes my-

> “ENZOOOOOOO!”

>>641882
Give her a kiss and say you'll meet her later.

Go tell your sibling to shut up you're coming already JEEZ

Welp.

Tell Marigold you've got business to attend and you'll have to catch up later.

sigh,"we will continue this later"

Open the barn door quietly, and tell you sibling to stop yelling.
You'll be home in a few hours, alright? You just have to take care of something, go on home by yourself sibling.

>>641882
*Sigh* I suppose I can only hope absence will make the heart grow fonder. Fate can be cruel, at times.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)16:57 No. 641897 ID: 05171d
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“Sweet Marigold, I’ll be back for you. I have to deal with-”

She interrupts me with a kiss.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)16:59 No. 641900 ID: 05171d
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> “Hurry back,” she says, “I’ll be waiting.”

“Thanks! I’ll be back, like I said. Right here. Right here in the barn.” I hurry for the door...

> “Enzo,” she says, and I stop.

“Yes?”

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)17:00 No. 641901 ID: 05171d
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> “My name is Lola, by the way.”

Well, this is unexpected. I may be in love. Maybe I can make this quick.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)17:00 No. 641903 ID: 05171d
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“What do you want?”

> “Uh… u-uh, mom said she wanted you back at the house.”

“How’d she know where to look? Huh?”

> “She said, uh, that you were ‘probably at the barn debauching some city tart’.”

“Well I’m busy. Tell her I’ll be back home in an hour. No, two hours. Three hours.”

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)17:00 No. 641904 ID: 05171d
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> “What does ‘debauch’ mean?”

“Rufio, go back home, and tell Mom I’ll be there in a couple of hours. Get out of here!”

> “She said to come now or you’re in trouble.”

Aaaauugh.

“Well, what does she want?”

> “She said you brought her bad wine and that you stacked the jars wrong in the pantry.”

“I stacked them exactly- ugh. Never mind. I’ll go.”

> “S… sorry Enzo. A-are you mad at me?”

That line. His face, his stupid little face. Rrrr…

“No,” I say with a sigh. “No, I’m not mad. It’s ok. Just go home, I’ll be right there.”

> “Sorry…”

Well, you were close, but you'll still be getting some later, hopefully. For now, do the chore your bitch of a mother is telling you do do.

>>641904
Maybe you should just... Disobey your mother? Who knows if she'll be there when you are done or if you'll get pulled into more chores while you are there.

>“What does ‘debauch’ mean?”
Uh... kissing and stuff. Except with a certain Mom-appropriate suggestion of condescension and disapproval.

>“Sorry…”
Not your fault.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)18:07 No. 641921 ID: 05171d
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“It’s like… kissing and stuff.”

I was this close to stuff until he showed up.

We take the trail back home to the priory village outside of Als Eyvor. Believe me, it’s not as luxurious as it sounds. These are houses clustered close to the curtain walls for fear of war, not out of any high social standing.

> “Enzo,” says Rufio.

“What.”

> “How come we never play swordfight anymore?”

“Because I’m too old for that stuff now, and so are you. You’re ten now.”

> “But it was fun! Besides, mom says they will be teaching me swordfighting at the academy. How come you don’t get to go to the academy?”

I just keep walking. With my longer legs, it’s easy to get ahead of him. I hear the patter of his legs catching up, though.

> “Can you teach me to duel? It won’t be playing if you’re teaching me. I know you have a rapier!”

“Hey, you shut up!” I stop to turn around at that. “Who told you I have one?”

> “I… I found it in the old barn. Sorry. Sorry, I didn’t mean to find it-”

“Don’t you dare tell mom that I have a real sword. She’d throw it in the bay if she found out.”

> “I won’t tell her. I promise. I double-promise. Now can you teach me? Please, please, please, please?!”

Again, I sigh. I make the mistake of looking back at him, and now I can’t say no. “Alright, fine. But if mom finds out about this, I’ll give you a licking, because I’ll know it was you that told her.”

> “Triple. Promise.”

Well, that made me smile a little bit. Hope he didn’t see. We arrive home, and I find mother with a familiar look on her face.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)18:08 No. 641922 ID: 05171d
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Ah shit, just look at her. To think I could be getting some right now from… what’s her name.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)18:08 No. 641923 ID: 05171d
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> “Rufio!” Mother yells, embracing my younger brother, “My sweet child, are you alright? Did he hit you?”

> “No mom,” he replies.

> “Oh, good, good. You’ve been a good boy, now run along and work on your studies. Just three weeks until you leave for the White Academy. Can you believe it? Mommy is so proud, but she’ll miss you so, so much.” She hugs Rufio again, then whips around.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)18:08 No. 641924 ID: 05171d
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> “Enzo, you worthless child! Look at me! What were you doing back there? Tickling some poor farmer’s daughter no doubt! I said look at me!”

I try to tune out during these.

> “I told you to stack the jarred cabbage from most-pickled to least-pickled. Are you that bleeding stupid, or are you just blind?”

Why does it even matter what order of pickledness they are in.

> “And this swill you brought me from the city? Why didn’t you go to mister Rodrigo like always?”

“Mister Rodrigo was in between cask shipments. He didn’t have any-”

> “Excuses! I asked for wine, not… piss! Go outside! Don’t come back ‘til morning.”

Rufio gives me the same remorseful look as always as I head out the door. Well, at least she didn’t give me anymore chores…

>>641924
...better hurry along then before she thinks of something. Get back to Lola.

don't say this but, wow what a bitch.

How the hell did this happen?

>Go outside! Don’t come back ‘til morning.
Well, you might have an excuse to get back to... you know... if she isn't gone yet.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)18:40 No. 641936 ID: 05171d
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>what a bitch
>how did this happen
She always resented me because my father left home after I was born. She remarried before she had Rufio. His dad was a knight or something. I don’t remember him all that much, but he seemed pretty night. He left too, but it was because he had to go off to war, and he didn’t come back.

I guess that technically makes Rufio my half brother, but… well, I don’t really like to say it that way. It’s like a dirty word to me. He’s my brother. Why does it matter who his dad was? Shit, whatever.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)18:40 No. 641937 ID: 05171d
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I arrive back at the barn, my stomach full of butterflies and my legs wobbling with excitement. I can’t get my heart to slow down, but I kind of don’t want it to!

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)18:41 No. 641938 ID: 05171d
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> “Enzo!”

…

...threesome?

>>641938
PORQUE, LOLA? PORQUE?!

You'd best be fucking joking Lola.

calmly walk over to your stashed sword. cut some bitches.

Who's this chucklehead?

Be dumbfounded.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)19:08 No. 641956 ID: 05171d
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> “Enzo! How’s it goin’ little buddy? Nice hat.”

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)19:08 No. 641957 ID: 05171d
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“Hector.”

> “The one and only. Say, we were just talking about you. Small world, huh?”




>>641943
No, I’m not murdering anyone.

>>641957
So is this how you got into the cult, Ortise?

Go "was it about how I was supposed to be back soon?"

>>641956
Geeze, why's she smiling. She likes you doofs fighting over her? Or she's glad you came back and she's not stuck with lame old hector. Yeah, that must be it.

>Say, we were just talking about you. Small world, huh?
So she couldn't stop thinking about me even with you around? *Shit eating grin* Kinda surprised you'd think of me when there's a pretty girl in your face, but hey, I don't judge.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)19:32 No. 641966 ID: 05171d
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“So I guess she couldn’t stop thinking of me, even when you were around, huh? Neither could I. I mean you. Neither could you.”

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)19:32 No. 641967 ID: 05171d
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> “Ha! Guess she couldn’t. She mentioned your lovely singing voice, and how you’re so adorable. Adorable like… how did you put it Lola?”

> Lola looks away, still smiling a bit. “Uh… like a little brother.”

> “Lady’s got a way with words, you know? And a way with a few other things if you catch my drift,” says Hector, “Anyway, I was just about to go for a swim. Catch you later.” He clicks his tongue and exits the barn. Lola follows him to the bay.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)19:32 No. 641969 ID: 05171d
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Boy that really sucked

>>641969
Keep calm, there are other fish in the sea. Head outside and smell the opportunity in the air.

get your sword, kill them.

Hey, some girls like adorable! Work with what you got.

He's just better at throwing down insults and taking things out of context than you. Don't sweat it.

Follow 'em.

Call her a creep for kissing a dude she felt was like a little brother
Also leave
Try not to cry
Cry just a little

Skip the 'denial' thing and go straight to 'anger' and throw something at a wall.

Just leave.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)19:48 No. 641980 ID: 05171d
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>leave
Yeah, I’m not sticking around this stupid barn anymore.

>get sword
Might as well take that with me, too.

>anger
I kick a bunch of hay on the way out. You know what pisses me off most about this? My mother was right. She was a tart. My mother was right. Ack!



> “STOP! JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!” comes a cry from a short ways down the trail, and it pulls me from my fit of anger.

>>641980
Go, now, quick. Run. Someone's in trouble.

>>641980
Well you have a sword. Maybe it's time to use it.

Investigate, but stay hidden.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)20:04 No. 641984 ID: 05171d
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I crouch in the bushes outside of the barn and take a look down the road.

> “Fuckin ivory tower prick faggot!”
> “Think you’re better than us?! FUCK YOU!”
> “Take that bow out of your hair, faggot!”

The hateful cries are intermittent with a child’s yelps and screams. Some kid is being savagely beaten

Some kid… some kid…

FUCK! It’s Rufio! Neither of the men are armed, and there's no one else in sight. Hector and Lola are far down the road. Fuck, shit, damn it. Ass ass ass ass. What is Rufio doing out here alone again?!

>>641984
Jump out and yell at them to get the hell away from your brother. Draw your sword and take a proper fighting stance with it, but use deadly force only as a last resort.

Crap, your mother will blame you for this won't she?

Whelp, you know what you must do. Give them a chance to back off, but don't hesitate to act.

stab them up and sit on their corpses.

Kick ass and chew something similar to gum. And you're all outta gum.

>What is Rufio doing out here alone again?!
He followed you, almost certainly.

>>641984
Sword. They taste steel for this.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)20:24 No. 641995 ID: 05171d
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“Hey, you two fuck the hell off! Leave him alone!”

The men begin to laugh.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)20:24 No. 641996 ID: 05171d
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One of the men tosses a rock at my face. It strikes me with a wet sound, and I taste blood. My ears ring for a moment, but when my hearing returns, they are shouting.

> “Who the fuck are you? Tryin to defend this piece of shit? I’ll have to fucking kill you, too!”

>>641996
Was that the only rock they had? Don't rush in. You don't want to get surrounded. Approach and see if you can get one to lunge at you. Slice his shit and get some distance afterwards. You have to keep from getting grabbed, otherwise they'll just disarm you.

If one goes for another rock you're gonna be in trouble.

>>641995
Combat lesson 1: don't make threats. Just attack.

>>641996
Get your balance back, pick your position carefully, and attack when there's an opening. Don't speak.

return fire, run down there and just stab them, in the dicks.

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)20:55 No. 642001 ID: 05171d
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One of the men runs at me. At first, I am frightened by how fast he is coming, like a rhino blind with rage. Then everything becomes slow. My heart is throbbing, but there is no anxiety. I step out of the way and jab him in the side, stepping into the thrust like I had practiced. A good lunge is in the hips.

His blood begins to leak from the wound, and I shuffle forward a bit. The sword dips in like a knife in pork, and then I awaken from my adrenaline rush to hear his horrific cry of pain. The man collapses, holding his wound.

Ha ha!

The other man, a coward, has run back to town. That’s it? It’s over? Too easy. It can’t be over…

It was like a flash.

It can’t be over…

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)20:55 No. 642002 ID: 05171d
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> “A murderer. My son… A murderer…”

Enzo 2015/05/21(Thu)20:56 No. 642003 ID: 05171d
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> “No… Enzo isn’t home.”

> “Are you sure?”

> “Yes.”

> “Inform us when he arrives here. Mrs. Ortise, your son will be apprehended.”

The front door slams. I can’t see out from beneath the stairs.

> “A murderer… a murderer. No… not my son. Not my son…”

> “My son…”

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)20:56 No. 642004 ID: 05171d
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> “My son?”

> “My son? A word with you, if I may?”

Groan.

I'm listening, father.

>>642004
Ask him what he wants.

So how did your timid little brother become the White Dragon?

>>642001
Shit sucks, man. Sorry about all that.
....
So, sorry if it's too soon to ask, but what happened that Rufio ended up taking your arm if you became a fugitive saving his life? Doesn't he remember that?

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)21:15 No. 642013 ID: 05171d
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> How did Rufio…?
If I knew the answers to any of these questions… well, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I wouldn’t be so… fuck, I really don’t want to talk about it, ok?

Oh… I’m awake. “Eh? Huh? Whatcha want, Padre?”

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)21:15 No. 642015 ID: 05171d
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> “Well, you see, there’s been this… this question. Yes, a question of an ethical nature, you see. One that has kept me awake. Well, I don’t sleep, but if I was still mortal and living, sleep I would not! I wanted to ask you this question, my son.”

“Spit it out, Padre.”

> “So, erm, you are the proprietor of a hospital, in essence. A hospital which operates for profit, and this question is one that every one of such establishments MUST inevitably face at some point. You see… you see… you charge money to heal the wounded and the sick, but what if a person in need does not have the money to pay? My son, what do you do?”

“Fuck… I don’t need this so early in the morning, Padre.”

> “My son, it is 1:30PM.”

“Oh, well, that’s a fair cop.”

>>642013
Please tell me that's not the mayor's girl. We can't have messed that up already.

>what do you do if someone can't pay
Hmm. See if we can work out some kind of alternate payment method. Maybe they work for us, or do something for us. Shit, I don't know.

>>642015
we heal them, have them work off the debt or owe us a favor for it.
pretty simple, really, we'll always be in need of more able hands.

You could offer low-level healing to those who don't pay. That way, you offer healing like any hospital but give better quality service (and more healing) to the people who fork over the cash. Since the healing potions stop working outside of the cathedral, this makes black market healing weak.

Then they work off their debt, or offer up some other form of goods as a manner of payment.

heal now pay later. someone with a hurt arm can work better when healed.

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)21:49 No. 642026 ID: 05171d
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>please tell me that isn’t the mayor’s girl
No, no, this isn’t the mayor’s girl. This girl’s name is...

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)21:49 No. 642027 ID: 05171d
File 143227018825.png - (15.37KB , 900x666 , 35.png )

…is uh…

Well, her name’s not important. Father raises an excellent question.

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)21:50 No. 642028 ID: 05171d
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“It’s simple, really,” I say, “we heal anyone who comes to us in need, and they can work off their debts, or pay in installments. We are in dire need of working hands here, anyway.”

> “So… we won’t have to turn anyone away?”

“Fuck no.”

> “Sharp! Very sharp, my son! What could possibly go wrong?”

“Nothing that I can see.”

With that out of the way, I need to think about how I am going to manage this place. It’s kind of a mess now. We need: direction, public image, and protection, among any number of other things.

uhh.... well, currently you are probably the best protection.
public image is probably just being an open place for the wounded.

uhhh... direction... get this place looking less shitty?

Don't try and push the "count" thing just yet, the real people in power might not appreciate some one-armed dandy getting uppity. First, gain support as a "trustworthy man working for the betterment of all", despite how inaccurate that may be.

Ask those who come by if they know of any people who might wish to work in a place like this, or for a person like you. Those in bad situations you can actually put to work instead of having them putz around like losers. Start low and slow, and with the healing font at your beck and call, it won't be long before you have some real support.

>>642028
Ask cheif who he knows outside the tribe, any contacts we have available should be exploited in full.

>>642028
Consider talking to the priest about your womanizing problem.

Protection: hire guards? Also train some of the villagers yourself for a more loyal standing force.
Direction: staying alive, for now. That big jerkwad will want to take this place over. If you can fortify enough to make him want to negotiate instead of attack, that will be good.
Public image: You'll want some sort of crest or identifying symbol. It should symbolize good health and good living.

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)22:56 No. 642041 ID: 05171d
File 143227417923.png - (10.49KB , 900x666 , 38.png )

>womanizing problem

What womanizing problem

The transition directly from sex cult to hospital/church has not been easy on my nuts

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)22:56 No. 642042 ID: 05171d
File 143227420138.png - (11.38KB , 900x666 , 39.png )

Hm, seems like I have a lot of excellent ideas in mind now.

>style of count
I was thinking about that the other day. Maybe I’ll drop the style. Humility is not my strong suit.

>clean the place up
Duly noted.

>training the villagers
I think I’ll have to talk to the chief about that. He’ll know a bit more on the subject.

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)22:57 No. 642043 ID: 05171d
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“Yo, chief!”

> “My name… is Arnel Abar.”

“Ok, whatever. Listen, I’ve been thinking that we need a small militia to defend this place. The village is the obvious source for recruits.”

> “You’re out of luck. The most recent wave of conscripts departed this morning. The village barely has enough people to farm, craft, and clean. They took the majority of the orphans, so all we have left for defense is children, women, and the elderly.”

Well, that’s no good. I will have to look into that further.

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)22:57 No. 642044 ID: 05171d
File 143227426651.png - (10.76KB , 900x666 , 40.png )

Things seems to be coming together a bit. I would like to explore the possibility of an alternative income source to fall back on, too.

Oh, and before I forget, there’s the matter of that emblem. That should help with PR, and might also create solidarity among my people.

Ortise 2015/05/21(Thu)22:59 No. 642045 ID: 05171d
File 143227434251.png - (2.62KB , 294x608 , emblem.png )

[Please help to design or vote on a banner emblem!]

Suggestion 2015/05/21(Thu)23:21 No. 642054 ID: f262c4
File 143227566227.png - (3.58KB , 294x608 , CANIGONOW.png )

Fine. I'll fucking do it.

Riotmode 2015/05/21(Thu)23:22 No. 642055 ID: a19cd5
File 143227573858.png - (18.05KB , 294x608 , watersports.png )

I'm feeling something a bit symbolic, to feed into ortise's ego

Riotmode 2015/05/21(Thu)23:36 No. 642061 ID: a19cd5
File 143227660830.png - (18.29KB , 294x608 , watersports.png )

The real version tho

Chocomaca 2015/05/21(Thu)23:39 No. 642062 ID: 39d5a4
File 143227679038.png - (20.51KB , 294x608 , seven_samuris.png )

Oh scrap, I was first going to draw a cup to represent solidarity but then it went all two girls one cup sheit. So I rode to the sunrise

Suggestion 2015/05/21(Thu)23:41 No. 642063 ID: f262c4
File 143227690863.png - (22.24KB , 294x608 , PersonallyIlovedogsandtheyaregreat.png )

For real though. A simple, to the point, (easy to draw) design.

>>642063
You know, I think this one really gets the POINT across.

Suggestion 2015/05/21(Thu)23:52 No. 642067 ID: 063543
File 143227754430.jpg - (21.20KB , 294x608 , rm2ekcrw.jpg )

It, uh, represents, like... Like, the bottom is a heart, and the top is a point of... solidarity? The whole thing looks kinda like an arrow, for strength or something. And the fist is the people's firm hold on their own state of affairs... or something.

littlebeast 2015/05/22(Fri)00:16 No. 642070 ID: 57d76a
File 143227896182.png - (25.03KB , 294x608 , Sketch2250032.png )

Imagine it looks more elegant and smooth overall...

Anyway it should make people believe the font itself is some fancy thing (even if we tell them that's not what it actually looks like) so that should help if we ever have people trying to steal it or some shit. And we can say the egg is symbolic of new life or something, only we few know what it actually is about.

Riotmode 2015/05/22(Fri)00:38 No. 642073 ID: a19cd5
File 143228028913.png - (14.84KB , 294x608 , watersports.png )

>>642070
You know actually, this is a really good idea. I did an alt version of it to compete w/it because I am a shameless idea thief.

Something something Yoke of Life, we can put a bunch of egg statuary around and start spreading "fertility" scripture as an added bonus, get our OWN sex cult going!

kome 2015/05/22(Fri)00:49 No. 642074 ID: d3be40
File 143228099740.png - (12.92KB , 294x608 , Compressed Potential.png )

Represent the overwhelming power of the fountain in the simplest of designs.

Oh! It occurs to me that you might be able to ally with the bunny-people now that you have reason for them to take you seriously.

Chocomaca 2015/05/22(Fri)07:51 No. 642098 ID: 39d5a4
File 143230628027.png - (14.95KB , 294x608 , banner.png )

This really. I liked the idea of the fountain. What struck me too was the haystack in the beginning.

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)12:40 No. 642123 ID: 05171d
File 143232364225.png - (10.70KB , 900x666 , 41.png )

>>642098
I can play around with this one a bit. Yeah, that’ll do.

I should probably put on some clothes.

> “What’s the news, bossman?”

“The celebration garnered us a lot of favor with the village, but also got a lot of attention from that warlord’s retainers,” I say, “And, wait, bossman? I’m surprised your not calling the chief boss.”

> “He ain’t my chief, bossman.”

“I need a new set of clothes. I can’t rely on other people to dress me anymore if I’m going to lead this place. Maybe something a little more one-arm friendly.”

> “Yeah, I sure as hell ain’t dressing you every morning.”

“I have been thinking about some kind of alliance with the local Bilks. Any ideas on that?”

> “I wouldn’t rule it out,” she says, “but my people are wary. Whenever there is a war, it is us who are exploited first. That why I was trained to sling, see. My mama wouldn’t let me have an apple for breakfast until I could hit it off of a fencepost with a sling. When you’re that hungry, you get good, y’see?”

“Interesting. Well, I hope you know I don’t mean to exploit them.”

> “Yeah, that’s what they all say, so don’t expect any Bilk to just up and believe you.”

“Why did you believe me?”

> “Huh? Oh, well, because I’m not like them, bossman. I don’t want to sit and fish and have babies until we have to hide from Lord Basstrid when the war comes.”

“What do you want?”

> “Huh, you know,” says Levna, pausing to think about it. “I never thought I’d get to a point in my life when anyone’d be asking me that question. I wanna be a chef.”

“A chef?”

> “Yeah, a chef. Not just an old den mother who cooks for her kids. I mean a chef. A famous chef whose food and rink are known far and wide. I want to invent a dish that defines a region. I know I can do it. I’ve just never had the chance.”

“Well, consider this your chance,” I say, holding up my wrist and then donning my cape. “Don’t blow it. Thanks for your help, Levna.”

> “Remember what I said, bossman! I’m not dressing you like this every day.”

“Noted.”

It’s quiet in the cathedral this afternoon. The villagers who had not gone off to war have returned to Pernille. An unfamiliar cough echoes through the sanctum.

>>642123
A visitor? Go say hello.

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)13:28 No. 642128 ID: 05171d
File 143232648058.png - (14.82KB , 900x666 , 43.png )

Father Alvin flies in a spiral pattern toward me, flapping his arms like an idiot and babbling.

> “HEBELBALBHEBLE! COME QUICKLY! SOMETHING HAS HAPPENED. COME ON COME ON COME ON COME ON”

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)13:28 No. 642129 ID: 05171d
File 143232650193.png - (12.18KB , 900x666 , 42.png )

> *cough cough*

>>642129
Oh my god he's awake. The kid is awake! Ask him how he's feeling. Also chide him for being so reckless and almost dying.

Oh, hey, the kid we rescued finally woke up? Gotten over than nearly being vampire bugged to death?

Ask how he's feeling, if he's got a name, how he ended up getting eaten by a giant bug.

The kid needs some loving care now. The wounds aren't just in the flesh...

Adopt.

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)14:22 No. 642137 ID: 05171d
File 143232974710.png - (13.76KB , 900x666 , 44.png )

“You’re alive! I’m so glad you’re alive! I thought you weren’t gonna make it, kiddo! Are you feeling ok? Do you need anything? Food? Water?”

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)14:22 No. 642138 ID: 05171d
File 143232976545.png - (8.77KB , 900x666 , 45.png )

> “Get… away… from me… cripple.”

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)14:22 No. 642139 ID: 05171d
File 143232977872.png - (9.21KB , 900x666 , 46.png )

What

Remind him you could beat him with one arm tied behind your back. The good arm.

No no no! The process of healing HAS begun! O look! This will lead to a whole boy again. Continue the pain sucking by laying hands on the boy and using your healing powers. It always works. You have to get used to doing it.

Play nice, he might be some rich dude's bratty kid, could get a reward for having saved his life. Or maybe he's just a brat and you're gonna have to remind him you saved his life through almost-slavery, who knows

Who's a cripple, jackass? You were just about dead, you know. Who are you anyway?

"that giant bug that tried to kill you? i killed IT, i am therefor clearly better then you despite the handicap. unless you want the bugs to come back and finish eating you"

Geeze, kid, did you insult the giant bugs too?

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)14:59 No. 642148 ID: 05171d
File 143233196421.png - (10.97KB , 900x666 , 47.png )

>>642143
>>642144
He’s probably just shaken from what happened. I’ll soften it up a little bit. I don't think it'd be wise to go off on him when he's probably just scared.

“See, I think there’s probably just a lot of confusion going around. I don’t blame you! You’ve been through a lot. I saved your life, you see. You’re in a safe place now. No more giant bugs!”

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)14:59 No. 642149 ID: 05171d
File 143233197936.png - (10.85KB , 900x666 , 48.png )

> “Con… gratulations… you want… a fucking… cookie or somethin’?”

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)14:59 No. 642150 ID: 05171d
File 143233199309.png - (11.62KB , 900x666 , 49.png )

Holy shit this kid’s an asshole

>>642150
Tell him to watch his goddamn mouth or you'll throw him out.

get the father, tell him to haunt this kid, HARD. and to just preach his ass off.

I want you to not be an ass to the guy who saved your life. Who the hell are you anyway?

Heh. I like his guts.
I mean it's not like we expected him to be all fukken fawning over our glorious heroic visage.
He's a kid, synonymous with asshole. Oh, and then there's that whole, orphans are worthless to society except as corpses or slaves thing his home village has goin on. Hard knocks give you a hard heart.
Hahah. Not like we know anyone else who had a rough childhood that made him tough and hardboiled and asinine. Ha. Haha. Ha.

>>642154
And at the moment, he's certainly making himself look quite viable as a corpse.

Well ex-SQUEEZE me, jackass. You want me to just go ahead and wheel this bed out of here, if you're such a big man, doesn't need to thank the guy who nursed him back to health for three days.
>>642152
This, too.

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)15:27 No. 642159 ID: 05171d
File 143233367120.png - (13.42KB , 900x666 , 50.png )

>>642151
>>642152
>>642157
>>642153

“LISTEN HERE YOU LITTLE SHIT

I risked my life to save your sorry ass, so if you don’t show a little damn respect I’ll have the padre here guilt trip you to hell. Who the hell do you think you are? Don’t you test me, I’ll show your ass off this alter and out the door-”

…

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)15:28 No. 642160 ID: 05171d
File 143233368602.png - (8.22KB , 900x666 , 51.png )

…

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)15:28 No. 642161 ID: 05171d
File 143233369880.png - (39.14KB , 900x666 , 52.png )

…

None of them

None of them heard what the kid said, did they

>>642161
Facepalm hard, sigh.
"Yeah yeah, I deserve that. Kid's got a mouth and I overreacted to it. Someone get him some food, I'm just gonna step away a bit so I don't continue making an ass of myself."
rip

Why would you think that was an okay thing to do

That was the worst thing to do

Try and play it off as "And that's what I WOULD say if I weren't such a kind and charitable soul" or somesuch

>>642161
*Loud sigh*

Our miracle patient is alive, and a jerk. Allow me to excuse myself before he provokes me into making more of an ass of myself.

Mumble "ungrateful jackass" and get back to work. Don't add drama.

>>642161
Oh just tell them to deal with the kid, he's got a lot of sass in him. You could even say he called you a cripple.

Don't play it off as a mistake or start treating him nicely again, you'll just look like a liar.

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)15:44 No. 642171 ID: 05171d
File 143233468975.png - (11.50KB , 900x666 , 54.png )

> “M-m-mister… I… I just w-wanted a… drink of water. I’m s-sorry I forgot to say ‘p-p-p-please’… I don’t even have enough… enough tears… left… to cry…”

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)15:45 No. 642172 ID: 05171d
File 143233470753.png - (10.29KB , 900x666 , 53.png )

“Woah… ok, you know what, I’m sorry, that was… I’m just gonna go ahead and let you sleep. Water, yes… water, comin’ right up.”

This kid is the fucking devil.

I'm sorry, I've been under a lot of stress recently. I'm gonna go get a breath of fresh air before our healthy patient here needs more medical care.

>>642173
Whoop

Anyway, go get him his damn cup of water.
Make it hot. Say you've got to disinfect it or something.
Make it very, very hot.

>>642173
This.
Make sure to mention to mention to the chief as you pass to keep an eye on him, he's manipulative.

Okay, really, you don't have time for the bullshit. Fob him off on someone else (you run a hospital for goodness' sake). Don't bother dealing with the stupid patient again, and throw him out when he's recovered.

>>642171
....This kid has promise.
He's an asshole, sure, but he's got spunk. Spunk and an excellent understanding of how to manipulate the expectations of those around him.
Now all we have to do is manipulate him into using that attitude for productive purposes. We're looking for asshole thief with a heart of silver, not bratty orphan wastrel thug.

>>642172
Let him think that worked. Out of earshot you can tell the others he called you a cripple.

pass the buck. and don't even try to justify yourself when asked say the kid called you a cripple and you are sensitive about that.

Ortise 2015/05/22(Fri)16:24 No. 642182 ID: 05171d
File 143233708907.png - (10.63KB , 900x666 , 56.png )

>>642177
I am all for trying to whip this kid into shape somehow, but I won’t tolerate him if he’s not willing to put in any effort. He’ll just cause trouble. We’ll only need to redirect his aggressions, or maybe just teach him not to be an asshole. I’m not great with kids, so fuck if I know.


I walk by the chief and whisper, “Keep a close eye on the kid. He’s a manipulative prick. He called me a cripple.”

> “Reconsidering your stance on orphans, yet?”

“Shut up. Did you forget that you call me the same thing? Just make sure he doesn’t cause any trouble.”

> The chief looks to his fiancee, and says, “Dearest Lucille, would you be so kind as to keep watch over the patient? Mister Ortise here says that he can be a bit of a handful, but you are an orphan too, so perhaps you two can bond.”

> “Of course sir,” says Lucille with a curtsy.

> “I trust her to handle it,” says the chief, “I am going to go back to town to see if I can reason with that retainer that Lord Basstrid left behind.”

“Thank you. Report back to me with what you find.”

> “As you say, master.”



END CHAPTER FOUR.

... 2015/05/22(Fri)16:25 No. 642183 ID: 05171d
File 143233712478.png - (17.79KB , 900x666 , 1.png )

[PLEASE SELECT A CHARACTER.]

>>642183
Tiny rabbit cook

>Select a character
Alt+0252.

We gotta have BunBun, hun

small bun

Levna 2015/05/22(Fri)20:21 No. 642219 ID: 05171d
File 143235127485.png - (8.44KB , 900x666 , 2.png )

> become bun

…

Eheh. Eheh! Smells bad like pipe smoke in here.

> “Lemme get this straight, one more time. You wanna borrow 500 pounds of barley, 50 pounds of hops, and 25 pounds of yeast?”

Levna 2015/05/22(Fri)20:21 No. 642220 ID: 05171d
File 143235129874.png - (8.97KB , 900x666 , 3.png )

“Yeah.”

Levna 2015/05/22(Fri)20:21 No. 642221 ID: 05171d
File 143235131539.png - (7.15KB , 900x666 , 4.png )

> “Fascinating. You got some kinda collateral?”

...like what?

>>642221
"I got a spear!"

But seriously for something this big you'd probably have to use your position at the cathedral as collateral. Free access to healing waters is worth something.

Five years of free healing.

"what's a collateral?"

Ask if you can just buy the ingredients in gold and supplies. Because you're a chef. Who works at a hospital.

Levna 2015/05/22(Fri)21:05 No. 642228 ID: 05171d
File 143235391818.png - (10.52KB , 900x666 , 5.png )

“I happen to work in a highly lucrative industry,” I say, “and if I can’t deliver cash return on your terms, I’ll give you unlimited access to a healing spring for five years.”

> “Five years. Of healing. From a magical healing spring.”

“Yes sir.”

Levna 2015/05/22(Fri)21:05 No. 642229 ID: 05171d
File 143235393383.png - (6.85KB , 900x666 , 6.png )

> “I can see you’re a little more clever than the average broad, so I won’t lie to you. That sounds a whole lot like bullshit.”

“It’s true.”

> “Sure, sure. How about this. If you can’t deliver a two-to-one ROI within a month, you come work for us. I’m valuing this loan at 1500 grimps.”

“A month? It takes three weeks to ferment!”

> “Maybe this just wasn’t meant to be. I’ll have my boys show you the door…”

“Wait, wait! Two months. Two months, and 2.5:1 ROI.”

> “Two months. Three-to-one. Or you work for me.”

>>642229
What kind of work would it be? Also, for how long?

Levna 2015/05/22(Fri)21:15 No. 642232 ID: 05171d
File 143235455044.png - (6.78KB , 900x666 , 7.png )

“Work for you? What does that mean, and for how long?”

> “Oh… let’s say… as long as we need you, and for whatever we need you for. How does that sound?”

>>642232
...do we have other options for getting cooking supplies because this sounds like risking being a sex slave or something.

>How does that sound?
That sounds a whole lot like bullshit. Also, kind of like slavery.

Levna 2015/05/22(Fri)21:32 No. 642237 ID: 05171d
File 143235554426.png - (13.01KB , 900x666 , 8.png )

>>642236

“This… doesn’t sound like a very good deal.”

> “It’s a great deal for us! I’m a man of my word, so let’s get you some supplies, shall we?”

“Uh, I didn’t agree to-”

> “Boys, load up a cart for the pretty lady.”






Shit. Bossman’s gonna love this. Maybe I can get out of this nasty biz somehow.

well, have bossman come with you to the payment time and he just stabs the dude in the face.

>>642237
Well you didn't tell them where to deliver it, so... you could just run away. Shady business or not, they're not going to track you down and force you to take their stuff.

On the other hand, do you think you CAN make the money they're asking? You'd want a written contract of course, so they can't just claim at the end of the two months that you owe more than they said.

Well, luckily your new church / hospital will make lots of money? ...and you just gave seedy seedy types a lead on that. Bossman will be thrilled.

Maybe he can just kill them if they cause a problem. Although that's using him too.

Geeze, some helpful employee you've turned out to be.

Levna 2015/05/22(Fri)21:50 No. 642250 ID: 05171d
File 143235664101.png - (12.36KB , 900x666 , 9.png )

Can I make the money? Sure I can make the money. I mean, who wouldn’t pay for ale that can cure diseases and revitalize the body? I’m picturing a big tavern restaurant. Maybe in the catacombs? Eh, no, too spooky, but I’ll think of something. That’s good money, and we’d pull in more than just poor, sick peasants that way.

>some helpful employee you’ve turned out to be
I know, I know. I was just trying to help. Look, maybe it’s not so bad. I just have to decide: should I take the risk, or run away?

>>642250
If we try to run it's incredibly likely they'll simply grab us and force us to do whatever it is they wanted (lets not dwell on that) anyhow, so we might as well honestly.

Take the risk. If you run, they'll probably come after you anyways. Only difference is this way you get the stuff you need up front.

Well just get the loan agreement in writing so they can't just straight up kidnap you afterwards.

Show your ugly face, slavery!

say the in writing part is for your boss. don't want your boss to think you stole it or something.

Levna 2015/05/23(Sat)20:23 No. 642514 ID: 05171d
File 143243782605.png - (7.90KB , 900x666 , 10.png )

Huh. I mean, I could probably make a break for it if I tried. I just need to find hole in their-

You know what? Nah. Levna don’t run. I’m gonna do this.

“Yeah, ok, I guess I’ll do it, but I want the deal in writing. No written contract, no money.”

> “Hm. Hmhmhmhm. Hm hm hm ha ha ha ha ha HAHAHA!”

Well, that made me a little uncomfortable, honestly.

> “Oh, silly me, I’ve been sitting in the shadows this whole time.”

Levna 2015/05/23(Sat)20:24 No. 642515 ID: 05171d
File 143243784622.png - (10.54KB , 900x666 , 11.png )

> “That’s better. Yeeesss. You’ll get your contract in writing to deliver to this mysterious boss of yours. Do not disappoint me, Levna. Gooth, Lumpo, get down to the loading dock and start piling the supplies onto the cart. Yuri, escort our guest downstairs.”

Levna 2015/05/23(Sat)20:24 No. 642516 ID: 05171d
File 143243786323.png - (12.16KB , 900x666 , 12.png )

> “S-sir, yes sir. Right away, sir,” Yuri points the way for me. “Right this way please, miss.”

>>642516
Maybe you can persuade him into spilling the beans about just how scummy this joint is. What kind of work would you wind up doing?

Levna 2015/05/23(Sat)20:41 No. 642520 ID: 05171d
File 143243886365.png - (10.98KB , 900x666 , 13.png )

“So, what kind of ‘work’ would I be doing here? I mean like, work-work, or work-work?”

> “Iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii’m really kind of not supposed to talk about the offerings-”

“Offerings…? What?”

Levna 2015/05/23(Sat)20:41 No. 642521 ID: 05171d
File 143243889375.png - (10.92KB , 900x666 , 14.png )

> “Nope. Nope. Nothing. oh crap oh jeeze dad’s gonna kill me oh gods I suck at this why am I so stupid

Levna 2015/05/23(Sat)20:41 No. 642522 ID: 05171d
File 143243890953.png - (11.39KB , 900x666 , 15.png )

> DID I SAY DAD I MEANT BOSS. Oh no… oooooh no, ok bad first day. Bad first day. Please don’t tell my dad

well if you didn't have secrets you wouldn't have to hide them

Spill it and I won't.

" I won't tell your dad if you quit cutting corners with me, buddy. C'mon, we're gonna be friends, here. You can trust me. "

Twist his ear. Literally.

>>642522
...is he talking about human sacrifice? Are they going to KILL you if you don't make the money?

>>642523
with a side order of
>>642527

>>642522
Look, we're not stupid. We know you guys think we're crazy and we can't produce results, and you want to profit from it somehow. Even if that means enslaving me for life.
But that sounds like crazy cult shit. And crazy cult shit never works out.
...wait.

>>642530
in last case, if he doesnt tell you

Eartwisting works, cults don't.

>...is he talking about human sacrifice?
Don't be silly! Of course not.

They're not human.

>offerings
They think they need to give an offering to our boss to stop him coming down on them

Levna 2015/05/24(Sun)20:12 No. 642819 ID: 05171d
File 143252357690.png - (13.97KB , 900x666 , 16.png )

>twist ear



> “A’heeeeuuueeh ah ahhh yaa”

“Tell me.”

> “O-ok, ok! Let go!”

Wow he literally has a sword.

> “M-my Dad finds girls for a collector’s harem.”

“So I’d be a sex slave. Is that it?”

> “N-n-no not-”

I twist a bit harder. “Who is the collector?”

> “S-some guy named H-H-H-H-Hector”

“You really do suck at this, Yuri,” I let go of his ear.

Levna 2015/05/24(Sun)20:13 No. 642820 ID: 05171d
File 143252359552.png - (11.80KB , 900x666 , 17.png )

I finally let him go, and he grinds his teeth, snapping up to a more dignified posture.

> “Hey. I never asked to do this job, ok? I never asked to follow in my Dad’s big dumb footsteps, ok?! I just… I just… I just wanna be a chef!”

>>642820
huh, coincidences. so do I

Ask him if he wants to come work for you. You could use an assistant chef. Might make it easier to get the money his dad wants.

>I just wanna be a chef!
Test him!

Start comparing recipes and techniques. See if he actually knows anything chef-y.

Levna 2015/05/24(Sun)20:51 No. 642837 ID: 05171d
File 143252588063.png - (10.47KB , 900x666 , 18.png )

“Wait, really?”

> “Uh… uh-huh.”

“Huh, so do I. Fact, I’m planning to open up a tavern where I work. Maybe you could work for me!”

Levna 2015/05/24(Sun)20:51 No. 642838 ID: 05171d
File 143252591872.png - (11.12KB , 900x666 , 19.png )

> “I… can’t. My Dad says cooking is for women.”

“Well that’s some old crap! In my village, both men and women learn to hunt, fish, and cook.”

> “Well I’m not from your village, ok? If my Dad found out I want to be a chef… well, he’d take me out on a trip to the cliffs and we’d have a little ‘accident’, and that’d be the end of me. Zip. That’s it.”

>>642838
Oh alright, best of luck with that then.

and as a rabbit, missing just one son wont be a big deal.

hmmm.. he could 'escort' the shipment to your boss ad say he wants to hang around to make sure his dad gets a return on this investment.

>>642842
yep, best way to go, have him go with you as a form of guaranting that you'll hold your word, plus this could be a chance to prove himself to his dad too

Well feel free to live the rest of your life being miserable and sad you never tried.

I am following my dreams.

Anyways if you want in let me know and maybe we can fake your death or something.

...lie to your dad. Tell him he needs someone 'overseeing' his investment. Then you have an excuse to be there.

As long as he's making money, he won't care to investigate.

Levna 2015/05/24(Sun)21:54 No. 642883 ID: 05171d
File 143252968258.png - (9.04KB , 900x666 , 20.png )

“You know, I can think of a way we can make this work. I don’t know how good of a cook you are, but if you’re willing to take that big of a risk just to do it, shucks, I’d go to heck and back to teach you.”

> “Really…?”

“You bet. We can just say that you’re coming along to protect your father’s investment. Yeah, that sounds real manly.”

Levna 2015/05/24(Sun)21:55 No. 642884 ID: 05171d
File 143252970823.png - (12.90KB , 900x666 , 22.png )

> For a moment, Yuri looks excited, but it subsides. “I… I can’t. I’m sorry. My Dad would kill me.”

“Hey, whatever. Have fun living the rest of your life wondering why might have been. I don’t need no escort, I ain’t gonna make no funny business.”

I head outside to the loading area.

Levna 2015/05/24(Sun)21:55 No. 642885 ID: 05171d
File 143252972653.png - (18.46KB , 900x666 , 23.png )

The two Pilosians, Gooth and Lumpo, are hard at work loading my loan of supplies into a wagon. For a moment, all those troubles just melt away. The toasty smell of barley and the sour, flowery aroma of the hops permeate the air. The bags are fresh woven and neatly stacked, all ready to dump into a nice, big cauldron.

I’m glad I said yes. This is gonna be so good.

remember, measure twice, dump once. don't wanna fuck up.

>>642884
Hook, set. He'll be back.

Lucille 2015/05/24(Sun)22:12 No. 642898 ID: 05171d
File 143253075031.png - (11.96KB , 900x666 , 24.png )

Meanwhile…

*brush* *brush* *brush*

“There you go sweetie. So soft.”

It’s funny I never saw this one around Pernille. Hum. Maybe he is from out of town.

>>642898
Maybe you can outright ask where he's from?

ask how a kid like him got mixed up with giant bugs.

Lucille 2015/05/24(Sun)22:26 No. 642903 ID: 05171d
File 143253158107.png - (12.77KB , 900x666 , 25.png )

> “I don’t really need so much brushing, miss.”

“Of course. I’m sorry. What is your name, dear? Where are you from?”

> “My name is Tino. I’m from Ponsey,” he replies.

“Well that’s not too far off. I am from Pernille, just down the road. How did you end up in this awful old cathedral?”

> “My friends dared me to go in, miss. I said I would go in if they did too, but they got scared and ran off. That’s when the bugs got me.”

“That’s dreadful. So awful, my dear. I am glad that you are ok. My fiancee tells me that you are an orphan.”

> “Yeah, so?”

“I’m an orphan, too.”

> He says nothing.

Lucille 2015/05/25(Mon)09:59 No. 643047 ID: 05171d
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“Yes, that’s right. I’m an orphan, too. If I didn’t have such fiery hair and a perky bust, I’d be just like you. Sneaking into churches and begging for food. I’m the lucky one, yes I am.”

> “W… what are you talking about! Stop brushing please… you’re hurting me!”

“You must stay beautiful, sweetie. You simply must.”

LUCILLE, GET A GRIP.

You're hurting someone again, STOP BRUSHING.

>>643047
Geeze, Lucille. Is it so bad to feel good about the parts of your life that went right?

Lucille 2015/05/25(Mon)10:52 No. 643079 ID: 05171d
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“Oh… oh dear. I’m so sorry. I must still be getting over my recent illness. I didn’t mean to hurt you sweetie.”

>>643077

Sometimes... sometimes I wonder where I would be if I had not caught Arnel's eye, or how much more I would mean to him if I was not lowborn. He likens people like me, young boys and girls of the village, to dogs and hoodlums, and yet he holds me with the tenderness of a lover.

Perhaps I simply need Arnel with me. Sometimes it feels as though I cannot think straight without him here. Is there something wrong with me? Am I helpless, or simply stupid? Oh, what am I saying. I am to be married soon, and to a chief! I cannot be having thoughts like these.

“You should get some more sleep, darling. You are so badly malnourished, but you are looking much better.”

> “Thank you Miss Lucille.”

Well isn’t he sweet. I wonder what gave Arnel the idea that he would be a handful. Maybe it was that Ortise. What a scoundrel that man is. Sometimes I feel he simply doesn’t care one way or another, but at least that means he’s no problem with orphans. My isn’t Tino cute? No, no. I am too young to be thinking of having children. Least of all before marriage. Oh my.

Lucille 2015/05/25(Mon)10:52 No. 643080 ID: 05171d
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I tuck Tino in on the altar again at the front of the sanctum.

> “Miss Lucille, I’m not tired.”

“I saw you yawn, sweetie. You are in bad condition. You need to sleep until you are well.”

> “Yes Miss Lucille.”


My sweet Arnel is away at the village. Am I alone here at the cathedral? No, I suppose not. Mister Ortise is still here, as is that peculiar ghost. What should I do?

Go talk with the Padre but keep and eye on Tino, make sure he gets his rest

>Ortise. What a scoundrel that man is
No gratitude, there? If he had not cleared the vermin from this place you might still be ill. Or worse.

>He likens people like me, young boys and girls of the village, to dogs and hoodlums, and yet he holds me with the tenderness of a lover.
Are you simply more than they were? Or is it a flaw of his character he cannot see the good in them the way he can in you?

>Perhaps I simply need Arnel with me. Sometimes it feels as though I cannot think straight without him here. Is there something wrong with me? Am I helpless, or simply stupid?
Think of it another way. He's not here, but would could you do to be helping him in his absence? Your chief does have an interest, here. You can try to aid him in his goals. You don't have to be helpless or stupid. You can be helpful.

>Mister Ortise is still here, as is that peculiar ghost. What should I do?
You could try talking to one of them. You might learn something that will be useful to Arnel. Start with the ghost, maybe? He's looser with his lips, or lack thereof.

Lucille 2015/05/25(Mon)11:26 No. 643100 ID: 05171d
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>>643086

>No gratitude there?
Yes, I suppose I do owe Mister Ortise more respect than that, at least for what he did. Arnel just dislikes him so much, I’ve begun to believe it myself.

>Are you simply more than they were? Or is it a flaw of his character he cannot see the good in them the way he can in you?
I don’t know, though I wish I did. Arnel is not wont to be open about his feelings.

>You can be helpful.
I can, and I will. Yes, that is a good idea. I just need to think of some way to help. Arnel will be happy when he arrives back, then.

Lucille 2015/05/25(Mon)11:26 No. 643101 ID: 05171d
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> talk to the ghost



> “Hello my child! How are you feeling?”

Oh! He’s a friendly man. Or… was, at least. He seems almost out of place.

“I am well Father, thanks to you and Mr. Ortise.”

> “How blessed I am to witness these facilities put to good use so long after my passing. Is there anything I may help you with? I must warn you, I have lost my… agency in this world, but I will do what I can.”

Talk to him about your FEELINGS.

he is old, ask if orphans were always seen as second class.

Could always discuss things with the priest, he should still be sworn to silence for confessionals and the like.

>>643103
Oh, feelings. You know the best.

Lucille 2015/05/25(Mon)18:48 No. 643237 ID: 05171d
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>feelings
“Father, may I confide in you briefly?”

> “Of course! I will admit… I am not the very model of priesthood, but I will gladly lend an ear.”

“Thank you. Well, it is about my fiancee, the chief of Pernille. Do… do you think that we are a good pair?”

Lucille 2015/05/25(Mon)18:48 No. 643238 ID: 05171d
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> “No one can really answer that question for you. You must answer it yourself.”

“What do you mean?”

> “You must convince yourself yes or no. You may be right, or you may be wrong, but either way, you will be certain with time. When we are wrong, that is how we learn about ourselves.”

“That is not very helpful for me. I’m sorry, father.”

> “Every living person goes through it. It was the will of the Primordial to bestow us with intelligence, and with intelligence, well, this struggle is inherent.”

It is really not what I wanted to hear, but I suppose I really did not know what I wanted to hear. I cannot cloud my head with this before the wedding. It does not bode well, and will probably only bring misfortune.

“Thank you, Father.”

> “I am sorry if I was unhelpful. It is been some time since I have offered counsel.”

“Well, on that subject, I did have one more question. Were orphans always treated so poorly?”

> “Ah, er, unfortunately that has been a constant since I was living. It is another plague of the intelligent mind, which is to look down on others. It is not in our nature to value others as equal. Past, present, and future this will be. When I was serving as a monk here before I attained my priesthood, I spoke with many an orphaned youth. This was only to discover that there was scarce compassion for the lowborn in this world.”

“I see.”

I take a quick look back to the altar to see that Tino is still asleep there. It is so quiet here that sleep would come easily to any of us. The light spilling through the slitted windows illuminating the gentle wisps of dust… The only problem is the smell. It is a combination of a sour, vinegar-like smell and a musty oldness. My guess is that whatever monsters inhabited this place before smelled foul, but now they are gone. Mr. Ortise seems to be cleaning up the mess, er, single-handedly. The people of the village have left, and that does not surprise me. This place needs work, but Pernille is so shorthanded now that the people have left to guard the east.

It is quiet here, and with Tino asleep, there is not much to do. Should I visit Arnel at the village, help Mr. Ortise to clean, or take a walk around the grounds? The sky is clear today, so it does not look like it will rain.

I'm sure Ortise could appreciate the help.

Also, an idea, for your nerves about the marriage. Flip a coin. Heads for yes, marry him. Tails for no.

Are you happy with the result? If no, do the opposite.

Take a walk, see if you can find something that Arnel and Ortise missed.

>>643238
He basically said it's a complicated question and he doesn't have enough details to help you.

Talk to him about your life while you work. Not the marriage, just... stuff. Try to learn about him too.

Hanging out with your husband would be redundant. Help Ortise or take a walk on the path. I would suggest marrying Arnel, as you have a higher chance of being happier later than without marrying him. Also Ortise was disconnected from his family at a young age, so I guess he's sort of like an orphan too. Ortise also prioritized the safety of the young boy earlier, over his own goals. He will help people on the moment, but not make plans for them. Basically, Ortise is a kind and caring guy on the inside, but has a foul mouth, and is rash and selfish most of the time. Just your average person though, in my personal opinion.

Also it's better to try something and regret it, rather than not try it and regret it. Think that way for marriage and many future choices. I'm sure you are plenty intelligent, you are only an idiot since you are too busy doubting yourself at the moment, like I do sometimes.

solvitur ambulando.
take a walk. the solutions will come.

Lucille 2015/05/28(Thu)21:15 No. 643804 ID: 05171d
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> take a walk

I suppose I should chance on marrying Arnel. I do love him, really. I am not sure why I am having these feelings of apprehension. Maybe that is normal for a young lady to be wed. I have never had the opportunity to speak with anyone on the subject before, so this is as unfamiliar an endeavor for me as it probably is for Arnel.

I exit the cathedral through the back way and wander down the clearing path toward the northeast. It is a slightly overcast day, but it is not cold. The grass has had time to dry after the recent rains, but I do not mind my feet being a bit wet. I don’t think that Arnel would approve of me walking about on my own and getting myself dirty, but he does not know how much of this kind of exploration I did as a child. There was little else for us to do with no parents and no prospects.

There are bushes here alone the side of the trail, thick and lush with pointed leaves. They are comprised of thorny vines hung at their ends with under-ripe blackberries. In a couple of weeks, these will be succulent and ready to eat. Maybe that Bilk will make them into pies and jam…

Lucille 2015/05/28(Thu)21:15 No. 643805 ID: 05171d
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HMP-

>>643805
go slack and lean backwards, try to slide under their grip! quickly!!

>>643807
get out of range right after that and gtfo

Lucille 2015/05/28(Thu)21:33 No. 643818 ID: 05171d
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I lean backwards and manage to wiggle free of my assailant’s grasp!

Lucille 2015/05/28(Thu)21:33 No. 643820 ID: 05171d
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He grabs hold of my gown shortly after, and I scream with all my might. I can’t go any further, and no one seems to hear!

>>643820
Twist and elbow the arms. Scramble away, grab a rock or something, and run. If they catch you again you can give them a whallop.

Lucille 2015/05/28(Thu)21:55 No. 643830 ID: 05171d
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I bat his arms away, which offers me a few more feet of escape. It forces him to emerge from the bushes and tackle me to the ground. This leaves my mouth free from his grasp to scream for help, but I am too far from the cathedral!

> “Who are you?”

His voice is raspy and muffled. He is pulling my hair and pressing my cheek into the dirt grass. I don’t want to die! Arnel! Ortise! Help me!

I am just out of reach of a fist-sized rock.

>>643830
"WHY ARE YOU ASSAULTING ME I'M JUST AN ORPHAN"

"RAPE!"

>>643830
Somehow sense your attacker is a woman, and get confused.

Wait, why are you assaulting me?

>>643830
Wait, that looks like one of Basstrid's men doesn't it? Ask what the big deal is. Is the cathedral off-limits now?

I suspect he/she will insist you go first so tell them, as if reminding them, that you're the fiance of the chief, and that you were just taking a walk.

>>643830
Use ROCK on ASSAILANT

He's wearing a helmet!
Apply rock to assailant's hands, to make him let go! Then, we get help!

Try to lock his leg with yours and then push your bottom up, then pull your bottom up like curving your back. Then reach for the rock.

Lucille 2015/05/29(Fri)10:30 No. 643882 ID: 05171d
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I twist and roll enough to get one leg free and drive myself forward a few inches.

> “Answer me!”

I can’t imagine what kind of sounds are coming out of my mouth.

> “Why are you here?! I said answer me!”

Lucille 2015/05/29(Fri)10:30 No. 643883 ID: 05171d
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> looks like one of Basstrid’s men
I haven’t been able to get a good look at him!

>hit hands with rock
I can’t turn around enough to get decent aim…!

> use rock

Lucille 2015/05/29(Fri)10:31 No. 643884 ID: 05171d
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The rock impacts with a surreal click like a breaking vial, and the assailant jerks away with a yelp. This last just long enough for me to scramble free and break into a run.

Lucille 2015/05/29(Fri)10:31 No. 643885 ID: 05171d
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WAAAH

> “I don’t mean to frighten you, young lady-”

“Help me! Or move! Just go, please!”

> “Please calm down. I do hope that my companion here did not harm you.”

Gesture frantically in a way which clearly ilustrates "Motherfucker jumped me from inside a bush!"

Companion. He said companion. They're together. And worse, they have a sword.

Your companion attacked me!

"oh god, is this one of those kidnapping things?"

Maybe grabbing the sword with distress rushing in you wouldn't be such a bad idea to give you "leverage".

Lucille 2015/05/29(Fri)11:22 No. 643892 ID: 05171d
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“Your companion lunged from the bushes and accosted me!”

> “Oh dear. I am terribly sorry about that. You see, I was surveying the area before I heard this commotion. Accept my apologies twice over, as your garb suggests that you are of gentle birth. Milady, how may I help?”

“Sir, is this a kidnapping?”

> “A kidnapping?! Of course not!”

“You keep peculiar company for one who does not wish to kidnap young girls, if I may be frank.”

> “Again, I will make this up to you now, and ensure that my companion here does not rough handle you any further, milady.”

Well that's great and all, but why, exactly, did he tackle me? Why are you people here?