Almost faster than you can believe, you somehow end up in the dining hall, alone with your father. Outside, you hear the sounds of celebration as Triune's Gift accepts the refugees.
"It's been two years." Your father said, limping to his seat, where he took a small sip of tea, and he gave you a smile. "A long, long two years, for me. But from looking at this city, and this castle... It looks like you've prospered, Ishelda." He gave you a rather weary smile, and sat back. "I'd very much like it if you... told me how this all came to be."
Still exhausted, despite the way your burns and scratches were healed, you take your own seat... and you're not exactly sure how to explain.

>Wat say?

>>20853000
"It's a long story, can I just hug you for a bit?"

>>20853000
"Well, you know. Appearing in a new world and starting a country is a family tradition. There was all this land that nobody wanted so I took it."

>>20853000
Barely hold back our tears.

"It's a very long story. When I came here I was so scared, I thought I'd never see you again. Everything was so strange and different and you weren't there to protect me, to make everything better.

The first being I met was my bear Grayson, he's been my steadfast companion ever since. I'm going to gloss over a lot of details but I wandered the continent for a while, I met people, made friends, got to know all the local rulers. I'll introduce you to everyone soon. I closed the portal that the demons were using to come here and many other things. I killed an immortal with a brick.

This place used to be a wasteland, with the help of Raziel, a necromancer, Marigold, and others I managed to cleanse it of the Astral Fire and am making it fertile again.

I love you father and I'm never going to lose you again. Welcome home.

Are, are you proud of me?"

>>20852997
"The land that is now New Arcturus was, when I arrived, steeped in Astral Fire. I managed to figure out a way to cleanse it using a plant that converts sunlight into magic - though I had plenty of help, obviously, The city itself is largely restored from the ruins of an old Ogrish city."

>>20853000
"Well, that's a long story, but basically I ended up working as an adventurer for some time, then I discovered that there were demons in this world, which the hobgoblins had been holding back for countless years. So I built up support, and we managed to close the portal they were coming from. By that point, I had built up enough political clout to take this barren wasteland and turn it into New Arcturus."

>start doing math assignment
>ffffuuuuuuuu brainmeltboring
>check catalog real quiFUCK
>SQ is on
>Math assignment speed: Biznasty

"Well it's all come so naturally to me it's almost difficult to describe. I suppose I should just start from the beginning."

Time to recap THE ENTIRE QUEST (this may take multiple posts):
"After Merlin sacrificed himself to send me here, I quickly began making as many friends as I possibly could. First and foremost, Grayson. The dire bear I was riding into battle. Lewin, who's created an adventurer's guild here was another, and Fellwind was also with him. He's since become a healer.
Saving one of the local leaders from an assassination plot was what really got me going though, and this led to meeting one great leader of the world after another.
Highlights include helping to make a flying ship, finding a new brand of alcoholic tea called swamp brew, discovering and helping a very small race of shapeshifting bird people called the Kalak, finding Marigold safe and sound, killing an immortal with a brick, closing the last demon portal in this world thus sealing them off forever, killing another immortal with his own name, discovering a plant that turns astral fire into magic, founding the country of New Arcturus by cleansing a wasteland saturated with astral fire, stopping an invasion of minotaur from another world, and a great friend breaching the other side of death to bring me Merlin's spellbook so that we could cast the portal spell to finally at long last return to Arcturus to save you all."

sip some tea at that point, because our mouth is parched.

"How about you, father?"

Rolled 88

>>20853000
As we try to explain our tale, send Grandpappy a quick bit of mockery with a Sending spell. Repayment for the jeering during the fight, just as we shredded his face and killed a deal of his army as repayment for Arcturus.

<Too bad for you, I'm a wolf in sheep's clothing.>

>>20853168
Uhh, you mean the archdemon that is not only in another world, but also probably dead by now?

I disagree with this course of action.

"I-It's a very long story." You say, quietly. "When I came here, I was so scared, and I thought I'd never see you again. Everything was so strange, and different, and you weren't there to protect me. I'm... going to gloss over a lot of details, but I wandered the continent for a while, making friends, and meeting the local rulers. I... discovered there were demons in this world, and so I built up support, and managed to close the portal they were coming from. By that point, I had built up enough political clout to take this... barren wasteland that nobody wanted." You say. "With the help of Raziel, Marigold, and others, I managed to cleanse it of the Astral Fire, and am making it fertile again."
He listened to your rambling, as you feel more and more self-conscious, and then he nodded.
"I'm... not quite sure what astral fire is, but it seems... and looks, like there's a lot of magic, here. A flying ship, violet flames... and a dragon." He said. "Your mother spoke about dragons, a long time ago, that they'd all been lost to time."

>>20853192
"They have been, technically. They sacrificed their entire race to prevent the demons from coming to this world."

>>20853192
"They are. The ogres sacrificed them to stop the demons opening portals here.
But you're right about there being a lot of magic in this world. When I went back it felt so dry."

>>20853192
"I'm not sure what Astral Fire is either, but Demons hate it and it hurts and mutates the land.

Dragons are gone, the Ogres sacrificed them long ago to keep the Demons from here.

The dragon you saw during the battle was me. Kaliel, you'll meet her when she gets back from a trip, made something for me so I could transform into one."

"It seems to be a sort of energy that comes from the sun. An early race somehow managed to weaponize it. It's harmful in large doses, like a sort of poison that changes the body in strange ways. As it turns out, demons are powerless against it."

"They are. The ogres sacrificed them, to stop the demons opening portals here." You say. "I'm... not quite sure what Astral Fire is either, but demons hate it, and it hurts and mutates the land. The dragon you saw during the battle... was me. Kaliel, you'll meet her when she gets back from a trip, made something for me so that I could transform into one. But you're right about there being a lot of magic in this world. When I went back, it felt so dry."
"It was dry for me, too." He said, and sipped at his tea. "After I... bid Merlin to bring you to this world, there was little we could do. Our knights were all but dead, and the militia was destroyed, but... there were still women, children, and those too infirm in the keep. So I... stayed, at the keep's gates, fighting a great demon. I... took the wound to my leg, there, but I was able to scare him off, and when he left... so did the demons. I'd bought us time, and we used it... by using my power for the very last time, creating a barrier to protect the refugees, and we started our trek to... somewhere safe, hiding off of the main roads, losing dozens of people every few weeks... until we reached Rowan Duchy. Dame Glenwell was there, and we'd thought her dead. She... led us to the mines, and there we were struggling to survive."

>>20853327
"But you did survive, thanks to your selfless sacrifice in maintaining the barrier. Will your sorcery recover, father?"

>>20853327
"The last time? Sir Franklin said something about it eating at your talent. What exactly did you do?"

>>20853327
You endured, you're still alive and you're home now. I'm never going to lose you again.

>>20853327
"We should be easily able to heal your leg, either Marigold or Kaliel will be able to fix it."

>>20853378
eenope, demon wounds.

>>20853390
Kaliel might be able to fix it.

"But you did survive, thanks to your selfless sacrifice in maintaining the barrier. Will your sorcery recover, father?"
"Is Sorcery what our power is called? No matter- It won't return. There was no way I could hold one up on my own, so... I fed my own power to the barrier."
"You endured, you're still alive, and you're home now." You say. "I'm never going to lose you again."
"Time takes us all, dove." He said, putting his hand on yours. "But I'm still rather young, so you needn't worry. But could you explain the... things that are not men? The green-skinned knights, the lizards who walk like men, and the titchy scaled ones?"

>>20853390
Kal can fix demon wounds, she fixed Kiyara.
We can fix absolutely anything if we roll well enough.

>>20853390
Kaliel can fix demon wounds, she did so for Kiyara.

>>20853405
"Of course, mankind is just one of many intelligent species on this planet. There are the green-skinned knights, called orcs, the lizardmen, the kalak, bird people to put it simple, elves, dwarves and the children, snake creatures."

>>20853405
The green-skinned ones are orcs, a proud people who live to the north. The lizards are lizardmen, who live to the south and make up a rather large percent of New Arcturus' populace. The titchy ones are kobolds, who live just about anywhere, and tend to latch onto powerful figures. And the birdfolk are kalak, who are almost all close friends and allies."

>>20853405
The green skinned ones are orcs. They are led by the Venerable Queen and King, who are immortal and around 1000 years old, their kingdom is to the north. They believe quite firmly in discipline as they can lose themselves to their rages and bestial nature if they don't. The King and Queen were the first to break their natures and taught the rest of their race. They are valiant knights and good friends, even if their sense of humor is lacking.

The lizardmen are to the south, matriarchal society. I have some in my personal guard, they are excellent runners and skilled with glaives.

The titchy scaled ones are Kobolds, they sing songs of power and follow the strongest one around who they call 'Boss', for this tribe that's me.

There's birdfolk called Kalak, few in number but powerful mages, you've seen some of them already but many tend to stick to human form."

>>20853405
"Apparently everyone who escapes their world with no particular destination in mind ends up here like me. There are so many different species. I think the ogres are the only natives. The green-skinned knights are orcs, the walking lizards are lizardmen, and the small ones are kobolds. New Arcturus also has ogres, kalak, elves, a hobgoblin and a naga as citizens."

>>20853405
"Ahh. The greenskinned ones are Orcs, a dutiful and strong folk. They are naturally inclined towards berserking, and yet have conquered that through a culture of self-control and discipline. Very noble. The lizards who walk like men are just that; lizardmen. Though, their women are more like snakes. I collectively call them Lizardfolk. They are devoted to the Mothers, who lead by both wisdom and strength; I still have too little familiarity with their culture. The 'titchy scaled ones' are Kobolds. Simple at a glance, but clever and intelligent, with a love of song. Naturally inclined towards serfdom, they just follow whoever is able to establish themselves as 'the boss.'"

>>20853405
"The green-skinned knights are orcs, and hold themselves to strict discipline to keep from losing themselves to rage."

"The lizardmen are just that - they had an empire on this continent once, and the remnants are far to the south. Their society is matriarchal."

"The 'titchy scaled ones' are kobolds. They make a habit of suboordinating themselves to powerful 'bosses' and gain power for their tribes by creating songs that channel their Bosses' gifts."

>>20853405
"As I understand it, power that passes through bloodlines as ours does is called a talent, and is fairly unpredictable. Ours in particular is called sorcery, as it is wizardry that requires neither knowledge nor components.
This world seems to draw many races and creatures from their homeworlds. I believe it to be a side effect of the sacrifice used to keep the demons out.
The green-skinned ones call themselves orcs. They live with a terrible fury that lives within them, and they work their entire lives to controlling it.
The lizards who walk like men are the aptly named Lizardmen. Swamp people who follow their matron mothers.
The scaled ones are kobolds, a tiny but clever people who always follow whoever they perceive to be the strongest.
There are several more as well. Kalak, Elves, Dwarves, Naga, Ogres, Hobgoblins, and likely several more I've yet to meet."

"Apparently, everyone who escapes their world with no particular destination in mind ends up here, like me." You say. "There are so many different species. The green-skinned ones are Orcs, a dutiful and strong folk. They are naturally inclined towards berserking, but have conquered themselves through a culture of self-control and discipline. Very noble. The lizards who walk like men are just that- Lizardmen. They held an entire empire on this continent once, and their remnants are far to the south. Their society is matriarchal, and they are devoted to the Mothers. The 'titchy scaled ones' are Kobolds. Simple at a glance, but clever and intelligent, with a love of song and stories. Naturally inclined toward serfdom, they just follow whoever is able to establish themselves as the boss." You say. "There are several more, as well; Kalak, elves, dwarves, ogres, hobgoblins, The Children, and likely more I've yet to meet."
"I see." He said. "So all of these beings have their own culture... but you've taken up the stragglers, making your own kingdom. I must admit, dove, I'm impressed. A world where magic is a breathing, living thing, and a world where the people are many and unique."
He sipped at his tea a bit more.
"... I've decided that I'm no longer going to be a king. Merely a lord, I suppose."

>>20853587
then you'll have to manage things with Marigold and [thatonekalak] while I'm having fun

>>20853587
"Oh, you want me to give you a title? What did you do to deserve that?"

Rolled 72

Rolling to infuse Mana Tea with Liquid Sorcery shots for Dad.

>>20853587
"Well, with the population expanding so quickly, and the agricultural projects finally getting into order so I can sustain it, I'll probably need just that. A lord to manage a new city's restoration. Would you consider taking up such a project when the time comes, Father?"

>>20853587
"That's good because if you wanted to be king you'd have to find your own kingdom, this one's mine, but I'm willing to share some of it with you.

If you don't mind I'm going to do something rather unqueenly here. I love you father. Did I make you proud?"

Wrap him up in a hug, like we're never going to let go, and let out all the tears we've been holding in.

I think the correct title would be King-Father.

>>20853647
second

>>20853659
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8GpMxHW18U

>>20853636
He's got tons of experience as king and has kept several thousand people alive when every single one should have died, I say we set him up as leader of one of the port towns.

>>20853674
WH4T NOW

>>20853659
There is no correct title. 99% of the time, the father of the ruling monarch is dead, that's how succession works. We can make up a title for him if we want.

>>20853685
It's called teasing. He'll probably be very useful, considering how our ruler education was cut short.

>>20853690
We could probably adapt the "Dowager Empress" title for him...or just entitle him as a noble of some kind.

>>20853685
Well, we need to BUILD the port towns first, but that doesn't sound like a bad plan.

>>20853690
It's the same way Queen-Mother works. The parent of the current monarch is given one of those titles, depending on what gender they are. IRL King-Father was really rare, but it did happen.

"That's good, because if you wanted to be king, you'd have to find your own kingdom." You say. "This one's mine, but I'm willing to share some of it with you." You say.
"Well, I don't feel like being a leader of men." He said. "For the most part... you've come into your inheritance. Now I just want to sit back and see what you do. If you need me, though, I'll be here."
"If you don't mind, I'm going to do something rather unqueenly here." You say, and give him a hug. "I love you, father. Did I make you proud?"
"You did." He said, returning your hug, patting your head. "You make me more and more proud every second I spend here, until it feels like I'm about to burst. I love you too, dove."
He takes a deep, rattling breath, and you try not to notice that he's started to tear up.

>>20853735
fucking cry in each others arms already

>>20853709
Wikipedia:
>Queen mother is a title or position reserved for a widowed queen consort
He was not married to the Queen of the matriarchy of New Arcturus who then passed away and gave the throne to her daughter, so it's not the same way Queen Mother works.

>If a king were to abdicate and pass the throne to his child, then in that case the king could have his son or daughter style him as a king father. King Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia was styled as HM King-Father Norodom Sihanouk when he abdicated in favor of his son.
Not the same situation either, and they're just saying 'well they could call him that if they wanted'.

There's no official title for the parent of somebody who founded a kingdom.

>>20853735
"I discovered alcohol, got a tattoo and got a girlfriend."

>>20853735
"I missed you so much, dad."

>>20853735
Start sobbing, bawling, wailing into his shoulder.

Blubber about how much we love him, and missed him. How we thought we would never ever see him again, how he'd never hug us and make us feel safe again.

>>20853735
I think we can afford to be 'not royalty' for about 5 minutes here.

Well, he should at least be a Duke.

>>20853829
King-Father Abel, Duke of the *place*, Adviser to the throne.

"I-I missed you so much..." You say, and start sobbing into his shoulder, blubbering about how you thought you'd never see him again, about how you felt so unsafe, so unsure... so alone.
"Shh, shh." He mumbled, kissing your forehead. Eyes closed, he clung to you almost as tightly as you did him, and, for the both of you, two years of emotions spilled forth. "I missed you too, dove. I'm not going to let you leave again. Not without me."

Drying your tears a few minutes later, he gives you another comforting hug, and ruffled your hair.

>>20853903
"Thanks... do you want to see the city, or should I introduce you to my friends?"

>>20853903
"Look at the two of us. we're supposed to be royalty, always in complete control of ourselves and we're both blubbering messes.

I should introduce you to all my friends, you'll like them. I think I'll start with the Kalaks, they kind of became my extended family in this world."

>>20853850
>Adviser
He should be a Vizier. We've already got one of those and having two different advisor titles is weird.

>>20853903
"I might need to leave again, my evil twin told me to kill a dwarf."

"Look at the two of us." You say, laughing to yourself as you dab at your face with a handkerchief. "We're supposed to be royalty, always in complete control of ourselves, and we're both blubbering messes."
He nodded, running a hand across his eyes. "We're only human. Or dragon, in your case. Sometimes."
"Thanks." You say. "Do you want to see the city, or should I introduce you to my friends?"
"Let's see the city." He said, taking your hand. "I want to keep you to myself, for now."

Walking through the city, slowly, allowing for your father's limp, you see some of the larger domes being worked on, by some of Raziel's skeletons, putting wood in the massive, ogre-sized doorway, and putting in a second floor- the ogres were nearly twice the size of a man, so the domes needed to be fitted for a human, lizardman, or orc to live there.
"The, erm, giant working skeletons are rather unnerving." He said, his hand still in yours.

>>20854056
"Those are ogre skeletons. We use them for labor, since there's just so many of them. They're mindless automatons basically."

>>20854056
"Ah, yes. Necromancy. It's becoming a far less taboo art thanks to my Vizier, Raziel. She's a savant, quite nice, and also an excellent ritualist. Don't worry about the skeletons, they're just unintelligent, animated bones. No mind, spirit or free will. Though she's not averse to calling on willing spirits, too."

>>20854056
"You'll get used to them, the city wouldn't be where it is without them."

>>20854056
"You get used to them.
That reminds me, I should tell Sir Franklin that the rescue was successful."

I presume we told Kal we're home safe when we got back? If not we should do that too.

>>20854056
"You get used to them, if it wasn't for them this place wouldn't exist. They work tirelessly and are rather strong.

A long time ago this was an Ogrish city, but there was a catastrophe that destroyed and tainted this place with Astral Fire. While we were still fixing this place they were the only workers we had a available.

My dear friend Raziel, the necromancer who let the men and women of Arcturus past fight once more, lived here and without her help Triune's Gift would not truly exist.

This is far from the strangest thing you'll see."

>>20854086
Don't forget to mention the knight that helped us save the Arcturian survivors.

"You get used to them." You say, watching the skeletons load more wood into the structure. "If it wasn't for them, this place wouldn't exist. A long time ago, this was an ogrish city. But there was a catastrophe that destroyed and tainted this place with Astral Fire. While we were first fixing this place, they were the only workers we had available. My dear friend Raziel, the necromancer who created them, lived here long before New Arcturus did. Without her help, Triune's Gift would not truly exist. That reminds me. I should tell Sir Franklin that the rescue was successful."
"Ser Franklin?" He asked. "I thought he was lost... he still lives?"

>>20854146
"Unfortunately not. He died in Arcturus, but we managed to save his spirit. He's the one who told us where you were hiding."

>>20854146
"Necromancery, get with the times."

>>20854146
"No, no he does not. I scryed for him and found him slain by the Archdemon. I managed to retrieve one of his bones and bring it here. Raziel made a totem so we could call his spirit from the afterlife.

He told us where you were so we could find you. He served beyond death, a loyal and brave man."

>>20854146
"I'm afraid not. We couldn't rescue you if we didn't know where you were, but we found his corpse and asked him."

"Unfortunately not." You say. "He died in Arcturus, but we managed to save his spirit. He's the one who told us where you were hiding."
"... Ah, necromancy." He said. "I apologize- I'm used to a place where even the meanest of spells were considered great workings. It would be more than a king's ransom to speak with the dead. But here, I suppose, is different."

>>20854256
"It's... Well, not as rare but not common either."

>>20854256
Yes. MAGIC be here.

>>20854256
"I doubt I would be able to do it without Raziel's help, to be honest."

>>20854256
"Well, it was worth more than a king's ransom, because we got to save all the other prisoners as well. But yes, it's different here. I just asked Raz and a few minutes later it was done."

>>20854256
"In this case, not so very different. Raziel is a necromancer, and so it's fairly easy for her, but such individuals are rare, and I understand it was a long, hard road for her to become one."

"I doubt I would be able to do it without Raziel's help, to be honest." You say. "Raziel is a necromancer, and so it's fairly easy for her, but such individuals are rare, and I understand it was a long, hard road for her to become one."
"Well then... shall we go meet her?" He asked.

You find Raziel in her chambers, leaning over her worktable, her wings twitching as she slowly, carefully put together a mirror. She eyed you and Abel, and then set down her things.
"Ishelda. Sir." She said, waving.

>>20854397
Let your father introduce himself, he should make his own impression first.

>>20854397
"May I introduce Raziel, vizier of New Arcturus, master of necromancy... dearest friend of mine." Giggle, and give her a hug. "I haven't even thanked you for your help, Raz."

>>20854397
"More mirrors?"

>>20854397
"Father, this is Raziel, the helpful necromancer and good friend. Raziel, this is my Father, King of Arcturus."

"More mirrors?"
"I'm still working on Skerghaul's." She said.
You turn to your father. "May I introduce Raziel, vizier of New Arcturus, master of necromancy, dearest friend of mine." You say.
"Hello." She said, awkwardly bowing.
"Lord Abel. Once sorcerer king of Arcturus, and now I'm... " He shrugged. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Raziel. If it isn't improper to ask... about those wings..."
"I'm not human." She said. "Not in the least. I was born a Kalak, but due to recent... personal issues, I've been staying in a mostly human form."
"I see." He said. "Can you tell me more about the Kalak?"
"We're... the last of our race, brought here by our father. There are only about a dozen of us, and most of us are here, in New Arcturus. We're all taught wizardry, and most of us have our... specialties. My own specialty is necromancy, and my brother's is evocation."
"I'm afraid I don't know much about wizardry." He said.
"Perhaps you could talk to Zeke about it- he's been teaching Ishelda wizardry, after all."

>>20854526
"We can meet him next, if you would like, Father."

>>20854526
"We could be classmates! You should find it fairly easy to learn seeing as you're used to manipulating magic, and if you haven't got sorcery any more..."

"We could be classmates!" You say. "You should find it fairly easy to learn, seeing as you're used to manipulating magic, and if you haven't got sorcery any more..."
"I'm much too old to learn anything new." He said, chuckling.
"We can meet him next, if you would like, Father."
"Let's do so, then." He said. "I apologize for leaving so suddenly, but Ishelda's dragging me around to meet anyone. I'll come speak with you later." He said, giving Raziel a smile.
She nodded, her cheeks going faintly pink, and then the two of you continued walking through the halls.
"... I hate stairs." He said, as the two of you were slowly going up the stairs to the airship tower, where Zeke was no doubt messing with the charms there. "Ever since that... 'friend' of mine all but severed my leg, I've been having troubles using stairs."

>>20854674
"Maybe Marigold or Forgotishysgirlfriendsname could help with that."

>>20854674
kelly fixing yu.

>>20854674
"Maybe Marigold can help, she's here. There's also my... girlfriend... Kaliel, who's good at modifying and creating life."

>>20854674
>She nodded, her cheeks going faintly pink
Daddy... is Raz going to be my new mommy?

"I hope he's having a lot more problems than that after what I did to him."

"Maybe Marigold can help." You say.
"Can she?" He asked. "Maybe, but I don't want to bother her while she's reuniting with Dame Glenwell."
"There's also my... girlfriend... Kaliel, who's good at modifying and creating life."
He pauses, stopping the slow shuffling up the stairs for a full moment, and then continued.
"...Can you tell me about her?" He asked.

>>20854712
Don't forget, mom wasn't in the afterlife either.

We should try scrying for her.

>Enlisted Kianniu
Captcha, if we enlisted Neo, the kingdom wouldn't need Ishelda anymore.

>>20854784
"She's a Kalak, I met her 2 years ago, and only recently have we been involved. She's currently away on a trip to learn about the interesting and magical creatures here."

>>20854784
"She's one of the Kalak. I suppose her most defining quality is creating her own school of magic, or maybe rediscovering an old one that was long forgotten. Dealing with flesh and sinew and blood. She creates and manipulates life, spawned from the ether. It's quite beautiful, though it can make one a tad queasy, at first."

>>20854784
"Um... she's nice. It's quite a recent thing, I don't really know... It was a lot easier when I just glared at people. She's away on a trip right now."

"She's one of the kalak." You say. "I met her two years ago, and only recently have we been... involved. She's currently away on a trip, to learn about the interesting and magical creatures here. It's... quite a recent thing, I don't really know... It was a lot easier when I just glared at people." You say, and he chuckles.
"Fair enough. I suppose you'll figure it out eventually." He said. "Your mother was the same way- she didn't quite understand love, at first. I'm not sure what to think of the woman you're courting being a woman... but my opinion doesn't matter. Keep that in mind."

>>20854959
>woman you're courting being a woman
Dad, everything alright?

Rolled 62

>>20854959
"Did I mention that we can shapeshift? That's a thing now."

>>20854959
"Um... did you know that mother wasn't human?"

>>20854959
"Change of subject. Zeke, where is Zeke? And why are these stairs so long? Uh. Tell me more about that 'friend' of yours. The big fellow with the nasty scar. Though, I suppose it's three nasty scars now."

Fidget uncomfortably and start ascending more briskly.

>>20854959
"About her, who was my mother, I don't really remember too well, and I've tried to scry her with magic, and she looked... non human."

"Um... did you know that mother wasn't human?"
He stopped, and turned to you.
"Where did you hear that?" He asked, his voice a bit harder than normal. He took a deep breath, and then, in his normal, soft voice. "Where did you hear that, dove? Nobody but she and I were supposed to know that."

>>20855041
"I didn't hear it, I saw it. I did a ritual and saw her come out of a portal to... somewhere else."

>>20855041
Ancestry spell, wanted to know more, picked mothers side for that casting.

>>20855041
"I realized that I knew very little about her. There's a ritual to look back through one's family history. So I did, and I found out about her."

>>20855041
"There's also the issue of that brute of a demon calling me 'granddaughter...'"

>>20855041
"Raz found this necromancy spell that shows you your ancestry. Can you tell me more about her?"

>>20855041
"I tried to find her with my magic, and the ritual I used show me her side of the family. Father, why did you not explain this to me? And why did that archdemon call me Granddaughter when I spied on him?"

"I realized that I knew very little about her. There's a ritual to look back through one's family history... so I did, and I found out about her."
"She told me once that she wasn't human, soon before we got married. That she'd come from another world, on a mission, and got... distracted by me. I didn't believe her at the time; I thought she was getting cold feet and babbling... but after you were born, she gave me another talk, much like the first. That ... she had to leave, and if she didn't come back, it'd be because she was dead... or might as well be. She never did return. I thought about it... and decided to tell you when you were older. And then... the demons arrived."

>>20855145
"She might not be dead. Or at least, she isn't where most people go after they die."

>>20855145
"Well then. I guess I need to save her as well, along with saving this world at least once more. Aren't parents supposed to keep their children away from trouble, and not the other way around?" playfully of course.

Rolled 57

>>20855145
Is it me or does the sudden realization that Draes is our mother not seem too out worldish now....

>>20855145
"I see... I think she went and fought the demons on their home turf, Father. Her home turf. In the vision, she slew an Archdemon, and said 'you are no kin of mine.' Further, 'you will never enter this world until the day I die.' That's all I know."

>>20855185
She's not. She's just an older alternate timeline Ishelda, an off-shoot of Void Queen.

>>20855145
"I don't quite understand it, but...I believe she may have originally been from the other side of death. There's a people there - almost more like a force of nature - called the Arakoatoa who enforce the rules of death. Mainly that we on this side get to know nothing about that side. I can't be certain, but my best guess is that that's where she is from.
The strange thing is...that's not where she is now. I haven't the faintest clue where she actually IS, only that it's not in death. Whether that means she is alive or unmade..."

>>20855191
This and add
"What was she like, before she left?"

>>20855145
"Well, it seems she was an Arakoatoa. They're glowy things that gave up their bodies for more magic. The demons are rogue Arakoatoa, and mother decided to save Arcturus from them for some reason and that was her mission. It seems she failed."

Rolled 85

>>20855194
Except, we don't know that, judging from her reactions, where she was hesitant and curious about Kaliel, she saves us, AND she said she had to become a monster, etc.... etc.... could all be very well be context clues as her being our mother.

"I see..." You say. "I think she went and fought the demons on their home turf, father. Her home turf. In the vision, she slew an archdemon, and said 'you are no kin of mine.' Further, 'you will never enter this world until the day I die.' That's all I know."
Your father looked down to the blade on his hip, a golden, shining blade- it almost looked newly forged, as always.
"What was she like, before she left?"
"She was..."
He frowned.
"She was like ice and fire. Like a calm day and a storm. She was always either... serene, tranquil, and thoughtful, or she was a thing of wild, glorious passion. She was happy, but... far away, always far away, like she was scared to get close."

>>20855252
I respectfully disagree. I think that those facts are pointing towards something certainly, but I don't believe we can say what that is.
That being said, I don't believe she is either an alternate version of Ishelda or Elizabeth.

File: 1348521543944.png-(21 KB, 567x521, geneology.png)

Since this is suddenly relevant again, I'll go ahead and repost it now.

Rolled 61

>>20855291
Aye, agree to disagree, so it shall be.

BUT, I do reserve the right to say I told you so, as do you reserve the right to as well.

>>20855302
So, Marigold's parents were brother and sister?

>>20855321
yep

>>20855321
Yup. Hooray for wincest!

>>20855316
Agreed. May we also both retain the rights to the age old "neener-neener".

Rolled 35

>>20855276
Also, is anyone else curious as to how Dame Glenwell survived as long as she did and met up with the other survivors? Or did I miss that memo?

>>20855357
She and several others were hiding in the mines and simply hadn't been discovered yet as I understand it. Abel and his knights and whoever else were a large enough distraction apparently.

Rolled 93

>>20855371
mmk, fair enough
>>20855276
back on topic though, keep on trudging till we get to where zeke is

By the way did Abel ever see Ishelda's elemental running about?

Finally, your father and you reach the top of the tower, looking out at Jormungandr.
"I'm still not quite sure how a ship flies without wings." He said, as the two of you climb onto it. You see Zeke kneeling over the thick slab from before, slowly wiping it down. He turns back-
And your father twitches, suddenly.
"Greetings." Zeke said, getting to his feet. He held out a talon, and smiles. Awkwardly, your father took it, and they shook hands. "I am Ezekiel, evoker and weather wizard."
"Nice to meet you." Your father responds, quickly regaining his composure. "I'm Abel, Ishelda's father."

Rolled 31

>>20855402
he got fused to rikar or something

>>20855412
"Hey, Zeke. I hope you made it through the battle without harm. My father wanted to ask you about wizardry."

>>20855412
Whisper to him. "Don't be so taken aback, father. You look like you've seen a ghost."

>>20855412
... I don't trust that twitch. Nonchalantly magic-look inside him for a certain nasty blackened wraith.

>>20855412
<What's so-
Oh wait, we haven't given him a ring yet.
"Zeke is Raziel's twin sister. He was the first kalak I made friends with. He's also a great artist."

>>20855465
Kristoph used his antimagic in the battle, which means it's dealt with. I think it's more like 'what, my daughter's dating one of these things?'

>>20855465
Uhh, Kristoph got his talent back in the middle of the battle. Which means Dras'lea held her word and destroyed that certain wraith.

>>20855487
Brother

>>20855530
Uh, yeah. That.

"Zeke is Raziel's twin brother. He was the first kalak I made friends with. He's also a great artist."
"I'm sorry, Magister Zeke." Your father said. "I'd just met your sister before this, and I assumed all Kalak look like her."
"She's unusual." Zeke said, and chuckled. "She prefers a form that's only slightly her own."
"And you all have those... beaks, right? And talons?"
"We do." Zeke responded. "People always say I'm rather handsome for my kind... but I suppose in your eyes, I look rather strange."
"I don't mean any offense, but you do look quite... strange." He responded. "Strange is a good word."
"None taken, of course." Zeke said.
"Can you tell me about wizardry?"
"Certainly."

<I'm back.> Suddenly, you feel Kaliel's heartbeat. <Something... happened, earlier. And now Dras'lea is following me around. Are you okay? How was your errand?>

>>20855539
<I'm fine. I got my father back. What happened? And what do you mean she's following you around?>

>>20855539
<Yes, it went better than I expected, although we still took losses. I had a talk with Dras'lea as well, and I think she's keeping an eye on you. To make sure you're safe, nothing sinister, I think.>

>>20855539
<It went great, we saved everyone and only lost a few soldiers. What happened to you? Is Dras'lea causing any trouble?>

>>20855539
<I think the only time I might've been better was when you told me you loved me the first time. We got my father back, I'm introducing him to everyone right now.
Dras'lea isn't bothering you, is she? She did actually help me a good deal yesterday.>

>>20855539
<It went well, I saved everyone and fortunately and unfortunately, only a few soldiers died. Right now I'm showing my father my friends and kingdom.>

>>20855539
Is Dras'lea trying to muscle in on our turf?

<It went great.> You say. <I saved my father, and the refugees, and only lost a few soldiers. What happened to you? Is Dras'lea causing any trouble?>
<Well, no, but... She's just staring at me, following me. And earlier today, I was just walking around as an orc in the streets, when suddenly she appeared, with the black cloak... and slapped one of the orcs. He just stared at her, and then she... ate his soul, or something. Just black mist, raising from the orc, and since then she's been following me. Nobody else even notices her.>

>>20855614
<Oh, that's not good - the soul eating, I mean. Have you asked her not to do that?>

>>20855614
<Y-you should probably thank her for that. On my behalf as well. That black mist was undoubtedly Gareth. Sounds like he was following you.>

>>20855614
<Oh, she must've caught Gareth. Good for her. Find out anything more about magical beings?>

>>20855614
<I think she's just curious. She asked me about you when she gave me Aeriel. I wish I knew why she was so interested though.>

>>20855614
<I think she might be trying to learn friendship, or love even.>

>>20855614
<I think she killed Gareth, who's spirit escaped and was hurting my friends. He stole Kristoph's talent, and might have attacked you.>

<Oh, she must've caught Gareth.> You say. <Good for her. I think she's just curious. Find out anything more about magical beings?>
<No, I haven't gone down to the caverns yet.> She said. <I just got here, and I wanted to visit Dariel and Neiriel for the day... but I don't want to lead Dras'lea to them. I have a feeling something bad will happen.>

>>20855686
<Just give me a second, and I can ask her if she would mind to stop following you for a bit.>

>>20855686
<Like what? Have you tried asking her to leave you alone?>

Rolled 14

>>20855686
Well then, let's go talk to her.

"Ill be back in a sec."

<Like what?> You ask. <Have you tried asking her to leave you alone?>
<I can try, but I don't think...> She said, and there was a pause. <Huh. It worked. She apologized, even.>
You feel her heartbeat suddenly pound for a moment or two, and subtly change. <Now I can fly up to the tower. How's your father?>

>>20855730
She has a ring, we don't need to teleport. We're completely exhausted after that battle as well. And you rolled like shit.

>>20855730
Ouch, it appears that we won't be doing that.

>>20855738
<He's adjusting to a new kingdom and to the new races. He's currently chatting away with Zeke, asking about wizardry and such.>

>>20855738
<He's been better, but he's alive.>

>>20855738
<He's ok. He got a limp, and lost his sorcery, but that's pretty good for two years in a world full of demons.>

>>20855738
<He got injured while fighting the demons 2 years ago, so he's limping, and he sacrificed his talent to keep the population safe.>

>>20855738
<He's back Kal. I got my father back.>

<He's back, Kal. I got my father back. He got a limp, and lost his sorcery, but that's pretty good for two years in a world full of demons. He's currently chatting away with Zeke, asking about wizardry and such.>
For a moment, you focus on them again-
"No, see, even though I'm kalak, I visited the provinces a lot during my... formative years, and eventually I kind of... got interested in the women there." Zeke was saying. "Cassiel thinks humans are too fleshy to be attractive..."
You quickly tune them out again.
<I'm glad.> She said. <... and now I'm worried about meeting him. Should I go in my human form? Or my kalak form? Or should we keep us a secret... Marigold was talking about how people on your world frown on women as lovers, so maybe I should come as male...> She said, her mind suddenly racing.

>>20855838
<I... already told him about us. So I guess come in whatever form you want. He knows you're a kalak woman though.>

>>20855838
<I already kinda called you my girlfriend so the proverbial cat is out of the bag.

Come as you feel most comfortable.>

>>20855838
<I already told him about us, Kaliel. He knows you're my girlfriend. You won't have to hide anything.>

>>20855838
<Calm down, Kal, he already knows about our relationship, he isn't disappointed or upset. Just show up however you feel the most comfortable with.>

<Relax Kal, I already told him about you. The real you. He said he doesn't care what you are, as long as you make me happy.>

white lie

>>20855838
<Come however you like, I already told him about you. He seemed a bit unsure about it, but... he just wants me to be happy. I think he'd support me even if I decided to marry the squirrel.>

>>20855905
Don't say this. It's kind of insulting.

>>20855901
Unneccesary lie. Don't lie if you don't have to.

"Come however you want."

<Calm down, Kal.> You say. <He already knows about our relationship. He isn't disappointed, or upset. Just show up however you feel the most comfortable.>
<...I will.> She said, and you feel her take a deep breath. <Now, I'd best hug Dariel for you. He's right here, if you want me to send any messages to him.>

>>20855939
<Not really. Ask him how he's doing... and tell him to stay fluffy.>

>>20855939
<I don't think squees and the word fluffy really constitutes a message, so no not really.>

>>20855939
<FLUUUFFYYYY.>

>>20855939
<Tell him that he better stay fluffy for me. Give him a hug for me, ruffle his feathers and make sure he's doing okay.

Let him know that I'd love to have him visit.>

>>20855967
Err, let's not ask her to ruffle his feathers.

>>20855978
Yeah, I'd rather not have any inappropriate touching of children in this quest.

>>20855978
>>20855967
Yeah, implications in Kalak culture and all.

<I don't think squeeing and the word 'fluffy' really constitutes a message.> You say. <But let him know that I'd love to have him visit, and tell him to stay fluffy.>
<Oh, I will.> She said. <I'll talk to Neiriel and see if they want to come. But I might try to get some sleep. It's early, but I've been flying all morning.>

>>20856029
<Alright, talk to you later.>
Focus back on the conversation between Zeke and Father.

>>20856029
<Of course. I think I'll fall asleep as soon as they let me get to my bed. Love you.>

>>20856029
<If you're tired get some sleep dear. I love you honey. Should I visit your dreams tonight?>

Focus back on Zeke and our father, see where their conversation went.

<Of course. I think I'll fall asleep as soon as they let me get to my bed. Love you.>
<Love you too.> She said, and you broke off the connection.

"You really live over a thousand years?"
"A thousand is quite old, for our kind." Zeke responded. "Azariel was around twelve thousand, and he was positively ancient for our kind before he even left his world. But we age slower- we're only adults past around... sixty five or so. But we were all taught wizardry, because we have so much spare time- we all end up learning it, eventually."

Do not let father stumble onto THAT painting

>>20856112
Woah, holy fuck, 12,000 years old?

>>20856112
>Twelve thousand
>Twelve hundred, even.
>Shit, I always mix those up

>>20856164
Okay, that makes a bit more sense.

>>20856112
"I should really thank Azariel. He went looking for you in the underworld, to let you know that I love you, and found Merlin instead where he learned you were alive. It's because of him that I was able to find you again.

He's the nicest dead man I know."

>>20856128
[x] let father stumble onto THAT painting

>>20856136
If 1000 is already really old then 12000 is ridiculous. He must have found the elixir of life or something.

>>20856128
Well we should ask Zeke to show our father some of his work, not really think about that painting and if that one shows up we'll blush crimson red while our father sputters a bit.

>>20856128
Yeah, very much agreed.

>>20856112
"Merlin tried to teach me back on Arcturus, but I never listened because sorcery is so much easier. Zeke's been a good teacher, though. I couldn't ask for a better one."

>>20856128
<Zeke, if you're planning to show him your paintings, at least try and make sure *that* one isn't there.>

"I should really thank Azariel." You say. "He went looking for you in the... underworld, to let you know that I love you, and found Merlin instead, where he learned you were alive. It's because of him that I was able to find you again. He's the nicest dead man I know."
"Oh, you're back with us." Zeke said, and chuckled. "Azariel's rather... complicated to explain. He'll be kind sometimes, and cruel at others, and he always works according to his own sense of logic. But I'm glad to call him my father."
"I see." Your father said.
<Zeke, if you're planning to show him your paintings, at least try and make sure *that* one isn't there.>
<... I put that one aside.> He responded. <Speaking of which, Kaliel asked for one... like that one.>

>>20856259
<You mean a copy, or one like that of her?>

>>20856259
<Of me or of her?>

>>20856259
<Of me in a state of undress?>

>>20856259
<Of her or me?>

"Zeke, why don't you show my father some of your artwork. I remember you getting into sculpture recently, anything from that yet?"

<Of me in a state of undress?>
<No, no, of course not.> Zeke said. <Of her. I just finished it last night, and she said that it's yours, apparently. It's completely worth the favor she owes me. I can give it to you later.>
Your father cleared his throat.
"Zeke, why don't you show my father some of your artwork. I remember you getting into sculpture recently. Anything from that yet?"
"Well, I finished the one of Quaz." He said. "But it's not very good."
"Quaz?" Your father asked.

>>20856331
"Qu'az." Smile.
"She's a rather recent arrival, although she's already left quite an impression on a few people. When you see her sculpture, you will know why."

>>20856331
"Qu'azlith, one of our guests. Fellwind and Lewin, who I'll introduce you to later, rescued her.

She's a nice person, though somewhat different and overenthusiastic. I'd describe her but I'm sure Zeke's sculpture will do greater justice than my words."

>>20856331
"Qu'azlath. A childish snake-person from another continent. She makes alcohol."

"Qu'azalith." You say. "She's a rather recent arrival, although she's already left quite an impression on a few people." You say.
"Her race is named after their god." Zeke said. "The, uh, 'Children of the Great Wyrm'. She's the only one in the city, and she's... different. She doesn't act like normal people do. She's been working at brewing alcohol lately.
"She's a nice person, though somewhat different. When you see her sculpture, you will know why."
"Well, let's go see her sculpture, then." Your father said, taking your hand. Together, the three of you went down to Zeke's room, where, sprawling across the walls were paintings, chips of stone, and glyphs and runes carved into several rocks, together with loads of books on wizardry and abjuration. You see a barebones painting of a large, white dragon, with long silver tracers sprawling up it's claws- You, you realize.
"Sorry about the mess." He said. "I have a few interests, and not enough time to sate them all."
"Oh, no worries." Your father said, examining a small pile of paintings. "You're quite skilled." He said, flipping through.
"Thank you." Zeke said.
"What's this from?" He asked, and it's a painting you've seen three times now- of you, standing in the cathedral, arms covered in blood.
"It's, well..." Zeke trailed off. "...Before we had New Arcturus, things weren't always fun and games."

>>20856487
"I killed a man with a brick to prevent him from ending the world."

>>20856487
"Oh, yes. That's the fabled brick incident."

>>20856487
"Well, technically it was a game. I didn't really appreciate being dragged into it though."

>>20856487
"I guess I glossed over the more unpleasant details of what happened when I arrived here. It's long, complicated, and thoroughly unpleasant. I would prefer if we could talk about it tomorrow. The brick's missing on the painting, though."

>>20856487
"There was an immortal Elf-King named Eidolon. He came back was plotting to do something bad, something that could have damaged or ended the world and didn't care who he had to hurt or kill along the way.

I rode Grayson, jumped off my airship atop him and dropped through the cathedral ceiling. He broke my wrist and hurt Grayson, so I beat him to death with a brick."

>>20856487
Well, see... My magic was kinda sealed and I needed to stop someone from ending the world. Brick-kun saved the day.

"There was an immortal elf-king named Eidolon." You say. "He came back, and was plotting to do something- something that could have ended the world, and didn't care who he had to hurt or kill along the way. He broke my wrist and stopped my magic... so I beat him to death with a brick."
"... I see." Your father said, thoughtfully. "... Someday, every ruler needs to learn how death feels. How murder feels. If they don't, then... then they'll order their men to death, execute criminals for the smallest of crimes. It's... not a happy thing, but it's something that has to be done. How did you feel, after that?"

>>20856487
"They still aren't, only most of the time."

>>20856582
"Numb? Devestated? It's hard to describe. But it's not that bad, we made our peace after I had killed him."

>>20856582
"I took a look at myself, at what I had done, the blood and brain on my dress and threw up.

I felt guilty despite knowing it was the right thing. I'll never forget that moment."

>>20856582
"I think you can see that from my expression.
There was... a man who was not very trusting of magical little girls appearing from nowhere, who thought I was a monster in disguise. I really felt like I was, right then."

"I took a look at myself, at what I had done, and threw up." You say. "There was... a man, who was not very trusting of magical little girls appearing from nowhere, who thought I was a monster in disguise. I... really felt like I was, right then. I felt guilty, despite knowing it was the right thing. I'll never forget that moment."
"... And nor should you." Your father said, and put a hand on your back. "But don't dwell on it."
He set down the paper, and shook Zeke's talon again.
"I'm going to go make my daughter introduce me to some more people." He said. "I'll most certainly speak to you later, Magister Ezekiel."
"I'll look forward to it." He said, and nodded.

>>20856687
Our dad is a pretty cool guy. I like him so far.

>>20856582
I threw up.

>>20856687
>Go see Raz because of Franklin
>Go away again without even mentioning it
>Go to Zeke's room to see the sculpture of Quaz
>Go away again without even mentioning it
It's national not getting shit done day!

>>20856687
"So, who would you like to meet next? There are Qu'az, Ell and Kiyara, Grayson, Belethor, Kristoph, Redglare, Gehenna, Aeriel, Cassiel or Fellwind and Jeanne. Don't ask me what they do or who they are, just pick one. It's more fun that way."

>>20856708
Clearly.

>>20856687
Well you already met Grayson but a more formal introduction is in order. He's the first one I met here and has been by my side ever since.

After that I should probably get my sword back from Marigold.

"Well, you already met Grayson, but a more formal introduction is in order. He's the first one I met here, and has been by my side ever since." You say.
"Grayson? I don't recall a Grayson..." He said.
Together, the two of you made your way down to the courtyard, where Grayson was lying on his back, asleep, and Kell was sitting nearby, perfectly still.
"... Is he the bear, or the vine covered statuary?" Your father asked.

>>20856794
"He's the bear, the other one is Kell."

"He's the bear." You say. "The other one is Kell."
"Right." He said, and patted Grayson's head. The bear opened an eye, and harrumphed at him, before rolling over. "Strange- he reminds me of that small, white cat that used to follow you around. Except bigger and fluffier."

>>20856873
"Grayson works in mysterious ways."

>>20856873
"This world has so much fluffy!"

>>20856873
"Oh yes, his intelligence is on par with a human's. He is also a very serious contender for the fluffiest thing in the whole world."

>>20856873
"He is very big and fluffy. He makes an excellent pillow.

He's kept me safe and been there whenever I needed someone to hug and cry to for the past few years. And he mauls anyone who would hurt me.

Father, may I introduce Prince Grayson. He actually is a prince, he is very involved in the workings of the natural order and cycles of magic. He can talk, he just chooses not to."

"He makes an excellent pillow." You say. "He's kept me safe, and he's been there whenever I needed someone to hug and cry to, for the past few years. And he mauls anyone who would hurt me. He can talk, he just chooses not to."
"Woof." Grayson said.
"Erm..."
"Meow." Grayson said again. "Quack."
"... Grayson works in mysterious ways."
The bear harrumphed again, and pulled himself to his feet, nudging you with his nose.

>>20856960
"Oh, sorry." Hug grayson. "He's also an excellent dancer."

>>20856873
"A dire cat, maybe? There probably isn't enough magic for any dire talents to manifest back home."

>>20856960
"Grayson! Don't embarrass me in front of my father."

Stage whispered conspiratorially to father: "He claims to be a prince of bears, but I think he's just trying to show off."

>>20856960
Pet Grayson, scratch behind his ears.

"Kell is a troll, though he's unlike all of the rest. It's rare for him to be apart from Marigold, they're almost always together. He's a bit like Marigold's Grayson, but more plant like."

>>20856991
this

>>20856960
"Grayson is one of my best friends and my bodyguard. I hope you don't think ill of him."

You start scratching Grayson's head.
"His intelligence is on par with a human's, as a dire bear." You say, and look over to Kell. "Kell is a troll, though he's rather unlike the rest. It's rare for him to be apart from Marigold. They're almost always together."
"Really." He said. "And how smart is Kell?"
"...Mawigraw?" Kell called, suddenly. Despite the way the troll was headless and seemingly eyeless, you got the feeling that it was... looking at you.

>>20857022
D'awwww

>>20857022
"I think those were his first words! Even troll ancients don't have the ability to speak! This is truly a monumental occasion. Say 'Ishelda,' Kell."

>>20857022
"...not very smart. Trolls get cleverer as they get older. It seems he's learnt her name, that's new."

>>20857022
"He's never done that before... I don't know where Marigold is, Kell. I think she was looking after Kristoph. He took a nasty blow to the neck."

<Marigold, has Kell learned to talk? He just said your name.>

Also, as an aside, at some point we should give Dad one of these rings. He probably doesn't know why we keep going afk.

>>20857022
"I think Kell is pretty smart."
"I'm not sure where Marigold is right now, Kell."

>>20857022
"He can't speak and he's only 2 years old, but he understands what you say to him. I guess he's just as smart as we are."

>>20857022
I do believe he just said Marigold

>>20857022
<Marigold, I think Kell misses you, he just said your name. Would you mind coming down to the courtyard, I'm with my father right now.>

"It's hard to say, much smarter than a normal Troll, especially considering that an Artifact blossomed in him. He is also still young, a child. It's difficult to judge him on human standards, those are the first words aside from 'graw' that he's made. Marigold would know more than I though.

Yes Kell, Marigold. I don't know where she is but I'm seeing if she can come down to visit."

>>20857062
No, he said Mawigraw. This is now her new name.
<Mawigraw, Kell wants you.>

>>20857092
Support.

>percise 354-3900
Damnit, Captcha, I have better things to do... gimme a minute, I got a call to make.

Rolled 58

Rolling to let Dad's Comm-ring be able to channel on command Sorcery without Ishelda's manual input.

>>20857069
>>20857092
combine these two

"Trolls get cleverer as they get older. It seems he's learnt her name. That's new." You say. "I'm not sure where Marigold is right now, Kell."
Kell suddenly gets to his feet, wobbling, and gives your father a hug, pulling him off of his feet, before setting him back down and patting his head.
<Mawigraw, Kell wants you.> You say on the ring. <Would you mind coming down to the courtyard? I'm with my father right now.>
<... Mawigraw? What?> Marigold responded. <I'm on my way. I'll be bringing the Dame, too.>
"It's hard to say. He's also still young, a child. It's difficult to judge him on human standards. Those are the first words aside from 'graw' that he's made. Marigold would know more, though."
"Hmm. I see." He said. "What are trolls normally like?"

>>20857128
"Well, they're usually full of poison thorns, and they mindless attack towns. But they always follow a specific type of troll, and Kell is a baby troll, so..."

>>20857128
They were created as living weapons. They are fierce, and heal quickly. The young ones are savages, but the old ones can command them, and seems somewhat intellegent. But then I met some down near the wall holding back the demons, they seemed to get along with the hobgoblins without issue. They seemed almost nice.

>>20857128
"Ferocious. I have met two kinds of troll. One were wild creatures, infesting the forests and attacking every human that came near. The other were defending this world from the demons' attacks to the south. Both kinds were fearsome warriors, able to kill a grown man easily by using posion."

>>20857148
It was a pretty horrible poison, wasn't it? Leaking black ichor out of your eyes style horrible?

I think we're giving Able a poor idea of what our time here has been like. It wasn't all fun and games.

>>20857128
"Trolls are in many ways not a 'race'. They were made as self sustaining weapons long ago to hold the line against the lone portal that the demons came through, through my efforts and the sacrificed of Azariel that portal has been sealed.

As far as I know no other troll is capable of speaking, they communicate through smells I believe. The young ones are savage and near mindless but they grow more intelligent with age. The old ones can command younger ones but it seems in many ways a more animal intelligence. They are extremely durable, strong and they spread.

Due to the nature of his creation, with my involvement, Marigold's involvement and us planting a rose made from an Artifact that sacrificed itself Kell is unique among trolls."

>>20857128
"They're big, strong, regenerate any wounds you inflict, and secrete deadly poison. They were created as weapons against the demons. They don't make noises, the old ones command the young ones with smells."

"They were created as living weapons." You say. "They are fierce, and heal quickly from any wound. The young ones are savages, but the old ones can command them, and they seem somewhat intelligent. But then I met some down near the wall holding back the demons, and they seem to get along with the hobgoblins without issue. They seemed almost nice... but they're fearsome warriors, able to kill a grown man easily, by using poison thorns."
You remember watching a man die, on one of your first days here, with black ichor leaking from his face, his veins corrupted and dark... You shudder.
"They don't make noises, and the older ones command the young ones with smells."
"Weapons, hmm. Well, this one doesn't seem like a weapon." He said, patting Kell's arm. The troll grawwed again, and Marigold came trotting out, the female knight following her.
"Your majesties." The dame said, bowing to each of you.
"Don't worry about using formalities with me." Your father said. "I'm no longer a king."
"As you wish, Abel." She said.
"Mawigraw!" The troll said, grabbing Marigold and giving her a hug, spinning in a circle. She giggles when he finally sets her down.
"You can say my name!" She said, ecstatic. Kell clapped. "Oh! I almost forgot."
Marigold took rikar and it's sheath, and handed it to you, where you belted it on.
"I'm... not quite sure what happened, back then." She said. "But Kristoph should be fine. I got there early enough. He just needs sleep. It would have been a mortal wound."

>>20857252
"Only without your help, Mar, only without you. You wouldn't believe how many lives she has saved here. If not for her, you would have a daughter with only one arm and possible no legs."

>>20857252
Ignore the fact she drew Rikar.

"That's fantastic! I was worried when I saw the size of the blade that hit him."

"Father, this is the sword I made." Show him.

>>20857252
"I'm glad. When I saw him get hit in the neck like that..."

>>20857252
"I'm glad for that.

Dame Glenwell, I'm sorry for what happened to Franklin. I'm sorry I wasn't able to save him. His spirit can be called if you wish, should you ever desire to speak to him just ask Raziel. (Describe Raziel for her)"

>>20857327
I'm pretty sure we have the totem.

>>20857252
"I am glad he isn't too hurt. I was so worried when I saw what happened."
"Oh, that reminds me, Father, I created an artifact 2 years ago." Pass him the sword, see how it looks in his hands.

>>20857339
Well that can't end well. I'm just hoping Redglare doesn't get it in his head to have a 'surprise training session' when Able's around.

You what we need to do. Train with Redglare. With Able there, watching.

>>20857348
Deleted the post. Why? Fucking typing is hard.

File: 1348533310176.png-(91 KB, 200x200, 1348501957326.png)

>>20857339
>Daughter getting beat up
>Limbs flying everywhere
>HFW is no face due to shock and horror.
>"Oh, by the way, I've trained with him before."
>MFW

"Only without your help, Mar. Only without you."
You turn to your father. "You wouldn't believe how many lives she has saved here. If not for her, you would have a daughter with no arms or legs."
"That was different, though." Marigold said. "Redglare wouldn't have trained you so... brutally if I wasn't here."
"Brutal training?" Abel asked.
"The, um, hobgoblin people train their young to fight by... well, attacking them relentlessly." Marigold said. "My power lets me heal people even when they're past the brink of death, so when Ishelda asked him to train her..."
"I see." He said, and turned to you. "Was it worth it?"

>>20857414
"We still lost people when we rescued you, if I could, I would have trained harder."

>>20857414
"Yes!"

>>20857414
"Indeed it was. I'm much stronger because of it, and I can withstand otherwise crippling pain."

>>20857414
"Well it hurt, and you never get used to losing an arm or having your legs broken as part of a sneak attack, but it made me strong.

It meant I could protect the people I cared about and that when it mattered, when I truly was fighting for my life I would know what to do."

>>20857414
"Most definitely."

>>20857414
"Definitely. I wouldn't have kept doing it if it wasn't."

>>20857414
"Considering I fought demons twice now and won, yes."

>>20857414
"depends on whether you think having an axe buried deep in your gut as 'worth it'... but yeah, it was worth it."

>>20857414
"Definitely. If it puts you at ease, Redglare and I are equal on the formal tally of broken bones, split guts, impalements, concussions, lost limbs and general mutilation at the moment. I'm sure I'll pull ahead of him quickly enough, though."

"Most definitely." You say. "It made me strong, and it meant I can protect the people I care about when it matters. I wouldn't have kept doing it if I wasn't."
"Well, I'm glad." He said. "I... probably wouldn't have done that, but it's better to learn to withstand that sort of thing in a safe place, than in mortal combat. Limbs, really?"
"She still has a scar on her arm." Marigold said. "It always gets removed at the same place every time, and it's got harder and harder to heal."
"If it puts you at ease, Redglare and I are equal on the formal tally of broken bones, impalements, concussions, lost limbs, and general mutilation at the moment. I'm sure I'll pull ahead of him quickly enough, though."
"... I'm even less at ease, I have to admit."

<... Something happened to Sardriel.> Kaliel said suddenly. <Dras'lea.. she knocked on the tower, and we let her in as a guest... and...>

>>20857553
<And what? Kal?>

>>20857553
"Uh, excuse me for a minute."
<Kaliel? Kaliel? What is it?>

>>20857553
<Uh-oh, is anyone dead?>

>>20857553
<That doesn't sound good, what happened?>

>>20857553
Excuse me. My evil twin is acting up.

<I'm unlikely to shed any tears for him.

Kal, focus. I need you to calm down for me. I need details, what exactly happened? Is anyone else hurt? Did she say anything else?>