The adventures of Morgan the farm girl #2!

>>475689
>Suddenly a weird gurgling noise.
>Shuffling of leaves and snapping of branches.
>Weird looking creatures crawling on all fours with mushrooms on their back come toward you.
>From behind one makes a leap at you but Milly destroys it with her hay.
"Thanks!"
>You set down your basket and unsheathe your knives.
>You run toward one and stab it right in the eye.
>It screeches and gurgles hideously.
>Two more jump at you but Milly destroys them.
>One gets to Milly and jumps her from the side.
>Her basket of goodies spins weirdly upright but doesn't spill.
>The monster tears into her with it's claws as hay starts flying out.
>Milly cries out.
"Milly hold on!"
>Two more grab you by the arms.
>You don't have time for this.
>They gnaw into your arms holding onto you.
"Get OFF!"
>You rend into it's abdomen slicing it apart.
>You stab harshly into the other one repeatedly.
>They fall off of you.
>You jump up and careen down into the monster on Milly piercing it's head like the fangs of a spider.
>It's body flails and writhes making a horrific sound before expiring.
>Milly lays upon the ground.
"MILLY!"
>Her chest lay torn to pieces.
>Your hands tremble as you hold her.
>"I'm ok."
"Milly.."
>"I'm alright, really.. I had a little extra stuffing in the chest anyway.."
>You try to gather up the hay as you stuff it back into her chest.
>As much as you try you can't seem to find all of it.
>Her chest area seems a bit deflated.
>Milly pulls out a needle and thread and sews herself back together.
>In a few minutes she's all patched up.
>"See, good as new."
>You hug her tightly.
"Don't scare me like that! I couldn't live with myself if something happened to you because of me."
>"Don't be so serious, I'm fine-"
"Promise you'll look out for yourself more!"
>"But-"
"Like you said, I have armor, you don't! It won't hurt me much if they attack me! Let me deal with them, please!"
>She has a sad look in her eyes,
>"But it's my job to protect you."
>You grab her hands.
"Not anymore, from now on, we protect each other."
>"O-ok."
>You walk back through the woods with baskets full and intact as you make your way home.
--

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hD50ScnBHuA [Embed]
>As the day passes you make it a point to read more of your spellbook.
>You probably won't be able to do an kind of magic for a while.
>And your swordsmanship is unrefined.
>You can smell the scent of warm mushroom stew wafting through the house as you turn the page of your book.
--

>It's the next day, and what a wonderful day it is.
>You have farm chores to do today as it looks like Milly is already off guarding the farm once again.
>Those crops won't tend to themselves, nor will the horses feed themselves, nor the chickens gather their own eggs, nor cows milk their own teats.
>You spend most of your day doing farm labor.
>It looks like you have about a fourth of the day left to spare.
>What will I do?

2/2

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>>475699

>>475699
Enslave everyone else they'll do it for us

>>475699
Train using your knives and try getting more used too wearing your armor and if the armor idea sounds stupid then train your strength.

>>475699
Hey can tell what time this is quest starts because I miss 4 hours because I don't know this was up.

>>475751
Would you please stop doing that.

>>476330
Find a nice looking try, draw monsters on it and start attacking it. That will surely get you better at fighting monsters!?

>>476385
*tree

>>476330
I second this.

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>>476330
>>476338
>>476385
>Yeah, training would be a good idea.
>And you know just the place.
>You go find some downed logs.
>You dig holes and place them into the ground.
>Going back to the house you equip yourself and start practicing against the wood dummies you've set up.
>The armor weighs you down a bit, but you hope training with it on will help you get better at fighting in it.
>Milly has always protected you.
>But you were always either too young or too weak to be able to defend yourself.
>You're not sure how long Dad will be gone, but you need to be able to defend yourself even when he isn't around.
>You cut and slash at the logs.
>You start to think about how the cuts would affect the enemy.
>What positions would be good to strike.
>In a real fight you need to be able to take care of multiple enemies at once.
>And without being too slow or letting Milly get attacked directly.
>Meaning you need to dispatch them as quickly as possible.
>All you can think to do would be to stab as hard as you can and hope it's enough to kill or cripple whatever is coming at you.
>The idea of just brutalizing your enemies isn't as simple as it appears.
>Maybe Milly has already mastered it to the point where she doesn't even think about it.
>In the woods she didn't seem worried or on edge at all.
>You're so weak compared to her..
>Compared to Dad..
>Sweat beading down your forehead.
>Gripping the knives you viciously slash at the log.
>Gritting your teeth and burying your frustration into it.
-----
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fy6fMDdV9vs
>Hours pass.
>You sit on a stump under the twilight sky.
>Hands numb.
>Body covered in sweat.
>You feel a dry cloth being placed over your shoulders.
>Armor on the ground beside you.
>"You've been out here for a while so I brought you a slice of Blackberry pie and some water."
>You wipe your face with the cloth realizing how soaked with sweat you are.
"Thanks Milly."
>She smiles at you offering the plate and water.
>You grab them
>You drink the water, you're surprised at how thirsty you were.
>Milly sits in front of you, legs crisscross, hands on her legs staring up at you.
>You take a bite of the pie.
>It's sweet and delicious.
>Even now Milly is still supporting you..
>You notice that stitching along her chest still.
>You can always go to a healer for your wounds..
>But do her wounds ever go away?
>You see places on her body with stitching all over.
>All these places are scars from previous battles.
>You begin to realize how hard she's fought to protect you.
>It pains you to think about all the times she's been hurt on your behalf.

--------

>It's the next day.
>You feel weary but manage to do all of your chores again.
>You have about a forth of the day remaining once again.
>What should I be doing?

>>476859
Take a nap

Rest is important.

>>476859
Ask Milly if leather armor would be too heavy for her. If she says no, trade food in town to get her one custom made, unless you want to take a leather working skill and do it yourself.

>>476859
Read the book about magic, it isn't that tiring, so you don't get too exhausted.

>>476896
Ask about the leather armor, if she says yes take a nap. If she says no do >>476896

>>476905
Umm...

Ask our sis if leather armor would be too heavy. If she says yes read the magic book and then take a nap?

If she says no get her light leather armor at town. She can fill it out by taking in more stuffing so no need for it to be custom made.

>>476952
That works.

>>476952
Okay, let's do it.

>>476896
>>476905
>You're reading your book downstairs.
>It's nice to take a break from all this labor.
>Sis is sweeping the floors.
>Shes so light and frail.
"Hey Milly, can you wear leather?"
>"Hmm?"
>She turns to you looking confused.
>"Why do you ask?"
"I was just thinking, if you wore leather, it might help you withstand a hit or two."
>"Really?"
"Milly leather is thick, and it shouldn't be that heavy for you."
>She shrugs.
>"I've never tried it."
"Well, maybe it's about time we give it a try."
>"Are you sure? It might be expensive."
>You stand up and put your hand on her shoulder.
"Anything to keep you safe."
--

>You sell your fresh farm food for 220.
>Custom leather armor is 80.
--
>Anything to keep Milly safe.
>She's wearing it now and doesn't seem to have much trouble with it.
>You go to sleep for the night at your home.
-------
>You wake up, and it's chores time again.
>3/4ths of your day is eaten up by farm-chores.
>But at least now Milly has some armor when she's out there defending the farm.
>What should I do with the remainder of the day?

>>477387
Magic!

>>477387
Read the book about magic.

>>477387
Read the book.

>>477407
>>477453
>>478061

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogZOuyEUaqM
>You read the book once again.
>You feel yourself opening up to the world, expanding in ways you never thought of.
>You were content with life.
>As things went you've had it pretty great.
>A good family, great food, and a scenic wide open space to grow up in.
>You've been brought into towns before and seen impoverished families.
>The desperation for food, shelter and basic necessities.
>You're grateful for what you have.
>But you wonder, about the world.
>What's really out there?
>Not only do your desire to explore, but you desire to help people too.
>You're nervous about it too.
>Worried about the danger, worried about the bad sorts of people that are out there.
>Bad people like your mother.
>Dad never said much about her.
>But he did mention she was an aristocrat.
>They met while she was taking a stroll, and over time he wooed her.
>Sometime after you were born she decided she couldn't bring herself to marry a peasant.
>A lowly farmer from the south.
>She disowned you, and him.
>She would want nothing to do with someone with 'tainted' blood.
>But there you were, a bastard daughter.
>Maybe she thought you would grow up poor.
>Yet Dad always did his best to provide for you.
>You cherish his love more than anything in the world.
>And you've always held what he said in reverence.
>It feels so lonely here without him around, but luckily you have Milly.
----------------

>It's the next day.
>You wake up, blurry eyed.
>But as your vision clears you see boxes with ribbons on them.
>And a card that says "Happy Birthday".
>You slide out of bed and inspect the boxes.
>There are three of them.
>You rip them open.
>In two of the boxes are clothes and socks, plus new shoes.
>Another box contains sweets and candies.
>These brands aren't sold anywhere in the south..
>Dad must have returned.
>You rush downstairs.
>He's sitting at the little wood table eating a piece of blackberry pie.
"This pie you and your sister made is delicious."
>"D-dad.."
>Dad is home, what should I do?

>>478129

"Dad... thank you!" You hug your father and decide to expend as much time as you can with him.

Family is important when is family that care for each other.

>>478291
Ye, supporting. Ask him how's shit going down. Tell him how we're doing. Normal family shit.

>>478129
We are happy as things are, let's not worry dad but mention that the people in town mentioned bandits raids.

>>478306
That works. So expending time with Dad and mention Bandit raids.

>>478291
>>478303
>>478306
>>478375

>You run over and hug him.
>"Morgan, sweetie."
He wraps you in his big warm arms.
"I missed you so much!"
>"I know and I'm sorry I had to be gone for so long. But I came back for-"
"My birthday! I can't believe you came back!"
>"It's not every day your daughter turns 19."
>Milly joins the hug.
>It's so warm and wonderful on a chilly morning.
"I'm just so glad you're back."
>You nuzzle into him.
>"Heh, it's good to see you too Morgan."
--------

>You're sitting in a chair across from your Dad.
"So what were you doing this whole time? You were gone FOREVER."
>"I was off making deals. Cnidaria has many people in it. Many of which will pay top dollar for a good product."
"But what about our deals with Surrova?"
>"Still going on. But we have to think on a bigger scale. I've been thinking about expanding our farm, hiring workers other than ourselves to work on it."
"Are you serious?"
>"The entire continent of Radiata will know of our farms. And we'll supply fresh food to the entire world!"
>"Yay farm takeover!'
"Thats great but, the farm was always our thing you know?"
>"Morgan, sweetheart listen to me. We have the capability to help so many people who can't get proper food that they need on a daily basis. In Cnidaria, our capital city, there are people who will eat spoiled produce, or rancid meat of an unknown origin."
"Even up there? I thought everyone up north was rich."
>He sighs.
>"Not exactly. Now there are plenty of rich people, but there are also a great deal more of poor people."
"Thats terrible.."
>He gives a bit of a chuckle.
>"I wouldn't despair. I got an insiders source that the military is planning to re-establish Cnidaria on a whole new level."
"What does that mean? And isn't the military a tiny force? It's barely enough to keep the city safe, that's what you told me once."
>"The poverty has driven many people to join the military. And once they're in control, everything will change for the better, trust me."
>This can't be right..
"But, what about the royal family, the nobles?"
>"It's tough to say. Some of them might still hold influence, but it should be a complete reform of the old class system. A redistribution of wealth."
"Well.. If it fixes things."
>"But enough about that, tell me about you. I see you have some armor up in your room. Planning on joining the military?"
"Well, you see, there were wild beasts that attacked, and Milly couldn't handle all of them so-"
>"But you're alright now aren't you? I see you have callouses on your hands."
"I was training. I just.. Wanted to protect our farm like you always did."
>He walks over and ruffles your hair.
>"You did good. I'm proud of you, and I'm glad you're safe."
>You smile looking up at him.
>He smiles back and wraps you in another hug.
>"Go ahead, take a break from your work today, It wouldn't be right to make you work on your birthday."
"Thanks Dad."
>Well, it looks like I have the day off. What should I do?

>>478739
Go have fun with you friends and your sister and found out more about this re-establish Cnidaria idea good intentions or not this could end badly.

>>478739
Sword practice with dad

>>478739
Go write in our diary, "Dear diary. Today I learned that daddy is a communist"

>>478834
*filthy pinko, how will I get him to realise the magnificence of working together as a nation and bring forth unity through strength, and estabilish a utopian fascist society that caters for people of all classes and creates a future for generations to be
FTFY

>>478822
>>478831
>>478834
>You decide to ask your dad to spar with you.
>He agrees and you both get wooden sticks.
>He teaches you about range, and about positioning.
>It's very educational.
>Although, something picks at the back of your mind.
"Dad, about that whole military thing.. You're not in on that are you?"
>He gives a hearty laugh.
>"Good lord no. I'm a bit too old to be involved in these new age politics. But when you're a successful farming merchant like me, you always hear things."
"Really?"
>"I want to believe it too. For too long the money has been in the hands of the few. The old blood has led our world to ruin and pollution. Our own greed has poisoned us. Did you know that if you have enough money you can BUY peerage from the nobles?"
"What's peerage?"
>"They give you a royal title, and allow you to serve under the monarchy's name."
"Is.. That what you want? I mean, you're pretty wealthy too right?"
>"Never. There's too much work to be done to be strutting about like some bloated peacock."
"Hahaha."
>"But that's enough of politics for now. Come on, let's get in some more practice."
"Alright Dad."
--
>You don't really have any friends outside of Milly.
>Apparently spending all your time on a farm isn't great for keeping friends as a young girl.
>So you just spend time with Milly and Dad swapping stories and spending the day together.

>It's the next day, and Dad has given you another day off.
>He probably feels bad for leaving you here for so long to look after everything.
>What should I do?

>>479048
Go to town and get drunk?

>>479064
Ask for more sparring lessons or ask him to teach you some defensive magic, also start working on a horse like construct.

>>479064
I second this. Let's have some fun!

>>479095
This minus the fake horse, we live in a farm and can use real ones.

>>479655
Ditto, we have real horses so is pointless.

>>479064
Don't do that or at least bring Milly people do stupid things when they are drunk.

>>479685
Is a horrible idea. We are female and live in a psudo medieval setting. Plus we lack friends to party with.

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I imagine we once drew our sister like this.

>>479095
This

>>480602
Why do we even need a fake horse? We live in a farm and have real ones.

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>>479805
It's a really clean and neat design and I like it.

>>479064
>>479095
>>479685
>It's your birthday, so you decide to go into town and get drunk.
>Your sister Milly comes with you of course.
>You travel into Surrova and park the wagon horses outside.
>Then you walk into the tavern.
>People seem to be laughing and having a good time.
>You wonder if scarecrows can get drunk.
>But then again, Milly can eat and drink and even breathe.
>So maybe she can.
>As you both take a seat at the barstools the bartender raises his eyebrow.
>"Can I help you girls?"
"Yeah, a pint of Lager for each of us."
>He sighs and grabs you both a pint.
>Suddenly you hear a glass smash.
>"Oops! The clumsy barmaid spilled my drink! How do you plan to make up for this?"
>You turn over to a band of troublesome looking individuals.
>One of them getting up and groping the barmaid from behind.
>"Hey!"
>"Such a cute face."
>He squeezes her cheeks but she wrestles out and slaps him away.
>"I'll get you another beer! Just don't touch me!"
>"Hey lady."
>He unsheathes a sword pointing it at her.
>"Now is that any way to talk to your saviors?"
>"Yeah!"
>She looks at the ground with a nervous look on her face.
>"We killed all the monsters attacking your town, you at least owe us this much. How about a kiss on the lips and another free round for me and the boys eh?"
>The bartender sighs.
>"Don't pay any attention to them. They've been robbing merchants on the road, and now they've come here stirring up trouble. They may have killed some monsters, but now they're harassing my bar-maid.."
>He goes back to polishing a glass stein.
>You take a swig of the lager, Milly is already about 3/4ths through hers.
>They are raising quite a fuss.
>And you do kind of feel bad for that barmaid.
>You'd really hate to be her right now.
>You didn't bring your armor or weapons..
>But perhaps they can be reasoned with?

>>482397
Walk away, Milly is flammable and thry could easily set her on fire with so many alcohol around.

>>482428
Damn, do any of them got lighters or are smoking?

>>482446
Also Milly DOESN'T have her leather armor on. She would go down easily in such a small and crowed place.

>>482454
Yeah, why did anons vote for this? It had bad idea written all over.

Also didn't we had more votes for the magic stuff?

>>482478
Let's see, four votes for magic and the fake horse.

And three votes for getting drunk.

Yeah, maybe there was a time limit or something?

>>482397
Ask the bartender if this is a regular thing and if the town is considering getting a neighborhood watch thing set up to drive the bandits off to look us up

>>482493
That works but make sure they don't hear us, sis is quite flamable and can't fight well in a closed space.

>>482493
>>482507
This might work. Better than a doomed fight.

>>482397
I have a idea we try saying that we seen some nobles around and say they are probably running from Cnidaria because we hear that there is talk of a rebellion going on so they running away with a lot of money so they don't loss to rebellion and say they are not heavily guarded and are possible camping somewhere and don't say it to their faces try speaking loudly to our sister or the bartender maybe pretend to be a little drunk because my be a good thing to add to the story or invite them to try to harass us instead of the barmaid

>>482595
Eh we are a farmer girl not a professional liar. So this is a bad idea.

>>482595
Don't you want to tie our hands behind our back while you are at it?

No, bad idea anon.

>>482605
I vote for the option of asking the barman about the neighborhood watch thing.

>>482428
>>482446
>>482454
>>482493
>>482507
>>482523
>>482670
>It looks like one of them is actually smoking with his feet kicked up on the table.
>With all this alcohol things could go up in flames pretty fast.
>You're worried about what could happen to Milly if things got out of hand.
>Better to just play it cool.
>You quietly strike up a conversation with the bartender.
"So, this kinda thing happen often?"
>"I hear from merchants and traders ours is the least affected in the south. Smaller towns like Phylum to the west are constantly under the thumb of big gangs."
>Milly interjects,
>"But what makes the north different from the south?"
>"Easy. The guys who make all the money are settled up there. It's rumored they have private defense forces that serve only them. Now we all know how big government fell apart years ago, how big our military and infrastructure used to be. But those were before the natural disasters, before the monsters crushed our armies like the tides against the rocks. Now the towns thrive on trade, and on goods to maintain civilization as we know it."
"What if we had something? Just like the old days?"
>He raises an eyebrow.
"Yeah, like a neighborhood watch. They could stop the bandits from strolling in and running things how they want, and also hold back the monsters."
>He rolls his eyes.
>"And I suppose you have the money to orchestrate such an affair? No one in this town ever does anything for free. People won't leave their trades and pick up a sword just because you tell them to. Now if you convinced some rich trader or something to start paying some of the locals, maybe you could have something. But wishes and dreams don't make things happen."
>The girl is screaming in the background being groped by the man from earlier and forcibly kissed by him.
>The men are laughing.
>He lets her go and she falls to the floor.
>With tears in her eyes she scampers off to the back.
>This is a tough situation.. What should I be doing?

>>482901
Go home, because you have no armor and ask why the fuck you don't have common sense and go drinkin alone.

>>482904
Yeah, this. How depressing. Well when dad grows the farm he will need to hire more people to guard it. Maybe the guard can have punitive expeditions into the surrounding area. Got to look after the town where out work force will come from after all.

>>482901
Go home and take the girl with us.

>>483188
You wanna pick up the bar maid, maybe tell her it's our birthday? After that episode I kinda doubt she is in the mood...

>>482915
Yeah this.

Dad has money, he could do something or maybe use magic to build a golem to guard the town.

Next time let's come back with weapons, armor and a bucket of water.

We wait outside with buckets of water and some people in town that thinks like us, once thry leave the baf ww trow water to the onest smoking and beat everyone up.

Alternatively let's borrow armor and weapons from the smith, tel him what's is about and rally people.

"Now is a barmaid, next it will be your daughter, your wife, maybe your boy because he looks cute. Are you really that much of a cowards? I am just a farmgirl and killed a buch of monsters, in fact I can orove it as I was here just a few days ago selling the dead bodies. Are you really going to let a bunch of idiots rape people who you know and then your family?"

>>483255
This might work. Let's go to the smith borrow armor and weapons, explain why. Then go to thr town hall and give this speech. If it doesn't work hust wait outside to beat the crap of the drunk idiots so we don't wreck the bar, also get those buckets of water.

>>483214
No, not in that way. Take her away from them by like, pretending we know her and leave the bar with her.

>>483493
Also mention our father waiting for the two of us. Our father is famous in town and mentioning him makes less likely they follow. Head to the smith just in case while pretending we are looking to buy the maid something there.

>>483508
Also why isn't the first thread of this quest archived?

>>483524
Good point it should be in http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html but I can't find it.

>>482901
Go home, leave the girl alone

From now on, not leaving the farm without our armor and weapons, same for our sister, if people complain then mention bandit raids.

Our sister could use something to keep people away if they get too close, maybe a long wooden staff?

>>483607
Agreed, we can't win every time and is our fault for being an idiot after we were warmed before of bandits yet we still went to town without armor and weapons.

>>483616
Yes.

Also we should leave the girl alone. Playing to be a heroine without the propel tools will end as a disaster.

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>>482904
>>482915
>>483593
>>483607
>>483616
>>483728

>You and Milly decide to leave the bar quietly and discreetly.
>You get to the wagon and take off.
>It pisses you off that you couldn't do anything.
"Next time we're bringing our weapons."
>"You mean your weapons?"
>Ah that's right she doesn't have a weapon.
>Maybe something to fight them off if they get too close..
>A wood staff seems fine.
"Hey Milly, how do you feel about getting to use a wood staff in battle?"
>She scratches her head.
>"Never used weapons before. I could try it I guess."
>You reach home and get to bed for the night.
----

>The next day Dad asks you to collect the eggs from the chicken coop but that he can take care of the rest.
>It doesn't take long before you complete your task.
>You and Milly suit up.
>No more leaving home without it.
>You load the wagon up with a few buckets of water in case Milly catches on fire before taking off.
-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HciojB_f-nA
>You arrive in town to see people being attacked and chased by horrific monsters.
>Tentacled winged abominations.
>You jump out of the wagon with Milly and prepare to attack.
>You one of the grotesque abominations attacking an adolescent boy.
>You run over and attack the monster.
>Taking your knife you plunge it into the monster.
>It writhes and squirms before going limp.
>Milly seems to have acquired a nearby broom to use as a staff for the time being.
>You help the boy up.
>"Thanks miss!"
>He runs off.
>An old woman is being attacked and bitten into by several of them.
>You rush over and try to attack one, but they move almost as a unit switching their focus onto you and latching onto your face and all over your body.
>Milly attacks and blasts them off you.
>The woman has open wounds and abrasions but doesn't seem to be impaired.
>"They came out of nowhere! Suddenly from the edges of town they crawled in.."
"I understand, leave it to us."
>She nods and hobbles off.
>You save several more villagers and kill many more of these creatures.
>It takes about an hour to purge them all from the town.
>By then you're exhausted from running around in heavy armor.
>Milly seems less fatigued but you can tell she's getting worn down too.
>A woman with purple hair comes up to you.
>She seems like she's about 30 or so.
>"You saved us, you have my thanks."
"Er, you're welcome-"
>"Yeah, you owe us big time for that."
"Milly!"
>She fumbles around.
>"Will this, be enough?"
>She hands you 15 dollars and some change.
"That's really-"
>"I'm sorry, that's all I have right now.. Being the mayor is more of a volunteer thing than a paid position here.. My name is Varidia."
>You push the money away.
"That's alright, you don't need to compensate, we were happy to help."
>Milly makes a pouty face.
"Is this something that happens often around here? I've heard about bandits and monsters, but it seems like the stories have more truth than I realized."
>She sighs pulling back her messy frazzled hair.
>"You up for a drink?"

>>484132
>You're in the tavern again.
>She finishes the pint in front of her and pounds the counter for another.
>"I grew up around here in the south. I don't know how things were for you growing up out in the wilderness.. But it's a hard life that's only gotten harder. When I was a kid we had a little militia. Just a small force defending this town. It was enough to keep the monsters away. But as time went on, we lacked the funding to keep it operational. The big-wigs moved north, and it all dried up. We struggled to keep things afloat, trying to manufacture goods, keep the trades intact. There are still people who live down here so we need proper infrastructure."
"I'm, sorry to hear that."
>"You've heard from Rainer the bartender here, about how the bandits fended off the monsters the other day? It's happened a few times before. They'll get bored and stroll in from their raids. And being the pig-headed brutes they are, they'll kill for sport because it makes them look good. Then they demand to be compensated. It hurts every time to know that we fund their pillaging. Their attacks on the merchants kill a lot of the business that comes into this town. We're feeding into our own destruction.. And there isn't a goddamn thing we can do about it."
>She finishes off the last of that pint and slams it down.
>What should I be doing in this situation?

>>484139
"Let's make a reunion in the town hall to talk about what to do. Make sure to include the merchants and everyone who has a business in town. I am quite sure they would prefer to fund a small milicia than keep getting robbed. Also this atack just proved that if they keep ignoring the issue the town will die. Eighter because of monsters and bandits or by people just leaving. I would like to volunteer but I have a farm to run so I can't be in town all day. At most I could hire a few people in the farm if my dad agrees but I dunno how that would help the town."

>>484139
Ask if she knows why there is no longer a militia
Also maybe a town meeting like >>484200 said but without funding. They shouldn't need to be paid to defend their own lives and livelihoods. Maybe they just need some confidence, basic fighting training, arrange safe place to congregate in the event of an attack

>>484248
The thing is, everyone is too busy with their own thing to join the militia, unless they get paid. But we could train and arm people so they aren't defenceless.

>>484313
That's what I mean, not a standing army, just some capable folks around town who aren't afraid to stop some shit

>>484313
I would believe you if i knew what they are doing for money because I believe we have the only farm around here and I don't know what kind of stuff this town can make to be worth anything and what I see if all they can offer as a reward for saving their lives is 15 dollars this town will be begging to work at our farm and I think they will make room from their daily work too learn how to defend themselves from monsters that are already attacking their homes.

>>484493
There is a smith, there is also leather tanning unless we are the ones providing the leather. If there was no business at all, people would have already left.

>>484200
>>484248
>>484313
>>484442
>>484493
"Why don't you try getting the gang back together? It doesn't need to be a full militia, but if you people want to keep staying here, you should at least take some concern for your own safety. Why not ask some of the merchants to pitch in?"
>She rubs her chin.
>"Most of the merchants like the south for its, exotic qualities. Certain metals you can't find anywhere else. It's unique fabrics for clothing, and we make damn good alcohol too."
"So then-"
>"But not everyone has a particularly profitable trade around here. Fishermen rarely make good catches anymore. And scavengers and herb gatherers are also not terribly successful either. But they're completely necessary to this town just so we get something to eat, even if it doesn't sell for very much on the side. The thing is, food up north is much better than down here. It's nowhere near the quality of your farm, but they manage the only farms to service most of our continent. So naturally they can overcharge through the nose just for a serviceable product.. We haven't been strangers to eating exotic cuisine like felled beasts, or insects, or rats. Spoiled food is served on the regular here."
"Yuck.."
>"I guess I can talk to some of the merchants about funding a militia team. If it means they can be guarded on the road to the train station "
"Maybe this is a weird question but, if they overcharge for their goods, why not overcharge for yours?"
>Her face seems red and shes gritting her teeth.
>"It's those damn bandits. It's a hazard to even come out here. I've been up north a few times. They think we're a bunch of savages because some of the merchants who try to come down end up robbed, brutalized or even murdered."
"Thats terrible."
>"I'll take your advice. I'm sure the merchants will pay for some muscle, and heck maybe we can start to fix things up around here.
"Great, well, let me know if you need any help. Although, I'll probably be really busy with farmwork a lot of the time, so the best I could do would be to lend you some money here and there."
>She puts her hand on yours.
>"I wish I could be more modest. But that would be fantastic honestly. You've already helped us out a lot. And your father is a saint. Everyone around here always looks forward to his harvest times."
"We were actually thinking about expanding. Once you get this sorted out, maybe you can give us a hand too."
>She grips your hand.
>"We would be honored to help however we can."
"Great, I'll let you know when we need some help around the farm. Dad will be happy to hear it."
>You shake her hand and exit the tavern.
>Well, I have a little less than half the day left.
>What should I be doing?

>>484963
Study magic with dad.

Better do this while we can.

>>484963
Magic!

>>485054
This is a good idea, he created our sister so he knows more than a hard to read book.

If possible I want us to learn healing magic and earth magic, and if we can only learn one thing make it healing.

Fire would just scare our sister away and cause way too many accidents. Wind might blow Milly away, water isn't everywhere but there is always earrh dirt or sand anywhere.

Hence Earth bending magic.

>>485054
>>485056
>>485069
>I get home and decide to study magic with Dad.
>"So, you've been learning about magic have you?"
"Yep. I had the book up there, and I'm not really even halfway done with it.."
>"Magic is a difficult subject to teach to someone with no practice in it."
"Teach me Dad. I want to learn to do incredible things like you."
>"I'm sure you will."
---

>"Everyone has the potential to use magic. But just like learning how to grow crops, it's not something you know right off the bat. Now most of the time a person must unlock the ability to channel and manipulate the forces around them. Have you been able to channel your energy yet?"
"I don't think so."
>"Lets try it, close your eyes."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6gr2gUJtqw
>You're sitting across from him with your eyes closed.
>"Focus on a singular point in your body, lets start with the middle of your forehead."
>He presses his finger right in the middle of your forehead.
>You concentrate on this point.
>"While you're doing this, be aware of your body, your mood, your feelings. Take a deep breath.
>You inhale.
>"Now exhale."
"Hooo."
>"Focus on that point. Notice your breath. Notice your heartbeat. Now inhale."
>You inhale,
>"Now exhale."
>You exhale.
>"The energy you need is all around you. But in order to master it you must master yourself, and open yourself up to the forces which surround you."
"I-i don't understand.."
>"Concentrate! Breathe."
"I'm trying.."
>"Relax, inhale, exhale."
>You try to focus and breathe.
>"Notice your breath, and your control over it. You can control the speed at which you inhale and exhale. Feel the air fill your lungs, go on, take a deep breath."
>You do so.
>"All that energy you use to breathe is done at a subconscious level.You feel it move and flow inside you, filling you up and leaving you. You will use this same technique and apply it to the forces around you. Like the very air you breathe let it flow, and once more return your focus to that central point on your forehead."
>You feel a strange sensation as you focus. A deep sense of awareness unlike anything you've ever felt.
"S-somethings happening.."
>"You're finally opening up. Harness yourself and feel this new energy flow within you. Like breathing, inhale, exhale."
>You feel a strange tingling sensation as you exhale. As if a great weight has seeped through your skin and sunk into the earth.
>You feel light, and free.
>You open your eyes and notice you're floating about 6 inches from the ground in your sitting position.
>Hands and body glowing with a bright white aura.
>You gasp, but in that moment suddenly you come crashing back down to the ground.
>Your father laughs.
>"Very good! You now understand the basics of channeling your energy!"
"F-father.."
>He yawns.
>"That should get you started. I think I'll call it a night."
>You walk over and hug him.
"Father, thank you so much."
>He returns your embrace.
>Practice on your own for the time being."

>>485222
>Father has given me time off today to practice my magic.
>I go to the front yard.
>It's a bright sunny day.
>I try to assume the position.
>Inhale, exhale.
>Channeling the energy.
>It takes a few minutes but you manage to float like last time.
>Though it lacks the white aura from yesterday.
>You try this a couple more times.
>And finally you run upstairs and grab the book.
"Well, I suppose with this out of the way I can practice basic spells."
>You say to yourself.
>You flip through the book.
>It doesn't have very advanced spells to practice, but you do see a minor healing spell.
>This might come in handy if you or Milly sustain an injury.
"Oh.."
>You're looking through this book at the healing spell..
"Oh my word.. This is.. Impossible."
>Channeling your energy into another life form?
>They might as well be asking you to walk around on your hands backwards.
>Even within yourself it's rather difficult to sustain the flow of energy.
>But in order to do this you must mesh, and sync with the target you are healing.
>It also says healing works better on targets whom have already attained an affinity for magic.
>Well, healing other people might just be impossible for now.
>But..
>You make a tiny cut on the back of your hand with a knife.
>Then you follow the directions carefully to try and heal it.
>But alas it's not so simple.
>You spend most of your day reading and re-reading your spellbook trying to control the energy and get it to do what you want.
>You practice for the whole day, but you can't seem to heal even a minor cut..
>Feeling defeated you retire for the day.
--
>It's the next day.
>And your brain feels like a train has run over it.
>It's difficult to concentrate or focus on anything.
>Dad is giving me another day off.
>But what should I do?

>>485225
Take a break and expend time with your sister relaxing a bit by going to the forest to pick fruit and kill monsters but be ready to run if something is too much for the teo of you.

>>485225
Talk to dad about want we have planned for the town if we are going to have more people working here we are going to need to talk to him about it and tell him we are trying to make a militia for the town and after that go to town see if there is any else can do to help and see if the Bandits from the bar are here again if they are throw them out of town!

>>485300
Maybe when our brain isn't screaming at us.

Let's do the forest thing first.

>>485306
Ditto. Is that or a nap.

>>485331
Thinking it better, nap it is.

Yeah, a nap sounds safer so I change my vote to nap.

>>485347
Napity nap.

>>485331
>>485344
>>485347
>>485527
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UW5EA-VG0lQ
>I should probably go try and take a nap.
>You walk back upstairs to your bedroom.
>Walking over to the bed you plop down on it.
>You pull the soft blanket over your body.
>Feeling the warmth and comfort of the soft bed as you feel yourself drift into a peaceful sleep.
--

>You awaken once again
>It's night-time.
>It looks like I can't sleep anymore for now.
>I go downstairs, but it looks like everyone is asleep.
>Stepping outside I see a multitude of stars and the moon overhead.
>You decide to practice another spell, one that involves earth manipulation.
>Placing your hand to the ground you begin to channel your energy.
>it's difficult to control the flow.
>You inhale, exhale.
>It's hard to describe, but there are tiny waves which you have control over.
>Like an ocean it swirls all over.
>Trying to direct the flow takes immense concentration.
>Dad said I had all I needed to start out with.
>You take a deep breath in and out again.
>Suddenly you can feel it.
>A connection with the ground.
>It's.. Chaotic.
>The energy is so different from yours.
>You try channeling your energy into the individual dirt particles.
>Concentrating and focusing, you can feel yourself starting to mesh with the ground as an extension of yourself.
>You open your eyes and see the dirt swirling around in a little spiral around your hand.
>You're amazed, but then it stops.
>You try again and again all night long.
--------

>It's early morning and dad stretches getting up out on the porch.
>"You're up early, ready to get to work?"
"I er-"
>Suddenly a person on a horse rides up to the farm.
>"I have a letter for you sir!"
>He hands Dad the letter.
>He opens it.
>"What's this all about?"
>"You're being summoned to Cnidaria."
>He reads over the letter.
>"Hmm.."
"You're really leaving again Dad?"
>"A Cnidarian research team is asking me to take a look at their latest advancements."
"What?"
>"They want funding no doubt. And they're going to put me on a glorified fieldtrip through their laboratories to try and win me over."
"Y-you don't have to go right?"
>"Pfft, of course not. But I always like seeing new things, even If I don't understand how it works entirely."
>You grip onto him.
"Dad, please don't go, you just got here!"
>He chuckles wrapping his arm around you.
>"You know, it's been a long time since you've been to the north hasn't it?"
"What do you mean?"
>"How would you like to go with your old man to the Cnidarian research lab in Cnidaria? I'm sure they won't mind if I bring along my daughter for the trip right?"
>He's smiling but giving a rather stern look to the delivery guy.
>"I-i'm sure that would be fine!"
>You think for a moment.
"M-milly can come too right?"
>He sighs.
>"I'd love to have her come along, but someone has to look after the farm while we're away."
"Aww."
>"You're an adult now, so I'll leave it completely up to you what you want to do."
>What should I do?

>>486118
"I would love to go but bandits are getting more daring. Maybe some other time after we hired sone people to help in the farm?"

>>486156
I second this.

>>486156
>>486572
"I would love to go but bandits are getting more daring. Maybe some other time after we hired some people to help in the farm?"
>"Bandits? Where have you heard this?"
"Um. Well you see.."
-
>You explain the situation as it stands.
-
>It's sometime later after the delivery person's departure.
>"I see. You've witnessed their savagery firsthand then. I must also applaud your bravery for defending an entire town. I know you would not lie to me, so I believe you."
"Father, I would like to go.. Really I would."
>"Before I go, I'll take a trip to Surrova. If things have gotten as terrible as you say, then I can't ignore this problem. We will need workers, and those workers will come from the south. But we will have none if there is no town left to recruit them from."
------

>Father and Mayor Varidia set up a meeting with the merchants in town.
>They're reluctant, but upon explaining the situation, and with father to lend his name, they agree to fund reconstruction of a militia.
>It's enough to get 15 militia people on staff, armed, and on duty that very day.
---
>"I hope that takes care of things. I wonder if you will choose to stay behind and oversee things in my stead, or will you choose to accompany me?"
"But, what about hiring workers, for the farm?"
>"None of these people can sew crops or care for a farm. It would a month at least to ensure it's left in the proper hands."
"Why a month?"
>"Training. They have no experience with farmwork. And I must ensure that only the right sort of people are allowed to work there. I simply have no time to oversee such a thing with something else that requires my attention immediately."
>What should I do?

>>486718
"Eh, if I go wiwith you could hire a few guards to help Milly at least? She is quite flamable and even with a leather armor on can't take many hits.Otherwise I will stay and train new farmers."

>>486718
Go with dad

>>486751
>"Eh, if I go with you, could we hire a few guards to help Milly at least? She is quite flamable and even with a leather armor on can't take many hits. Otherwise I will stay and train new farmers."

I am a tad paranoid about our hay sister.

>>486718
Go with dad and ask more about Mom like what aristocrat group she was with and what kind of science are we going to see.
I think Milly will be fine on her own but maybe we can hire one guard to help her I'm sure dad can afford that or hell we could hire one I'm sure one guard can't be that expensive.

>>486751
>>486784
>>486892
>>486927
"Eh, if I go with you, could we hire a few guards to help Milly at least? She is quite flammable and even with a leather armor on can't take many hits. Otherwise I will stay and train new farmers"
>"I would like you to come see the north with me. And a few trained hands to help defend our farm is never a bad idea. I'll arrange for six skilled men to be stationed at the farmhouse. I'm sure Milly can put them to work out in the fields too. Who knows, perhaps if she gives me a good report, I'll get some farmhands afterall."
You can't help but beam as you run over and wrap him in a hug,
"Dad!"
>He returns your embrace.
>"Come on, there's much to do before we leave. And you need to be packed and ready to leave by tomorrow."
"Alright."
--

>You pack all your stuff, including a bunch of the candy Dad gave you for your birthday.
>You give some of it to Milly.
>You wish she could come with.
>Her gentle smile always puts you in a better mood.
"I'm going to miss you Milly."
>You wrap her in a hug.
>"I'll miss you too big Sis. Be careful up there in the big city."
"I will. And when I come back, I promise I'll tell you all about it!"
You take your pack and put it in the back of the car.
"Take care!"
>"Bye!"
>Milly waves as you get in the passengers seat.
>Father drives down the unpaved road.
>"I'm so happy you're coming with me."
"I.. I'm happy too."
>Silence for a moment.
>"Milly will be fine, she can take care of herself."
>You peer out the back window.
>You're going to miss that face.
>The car bumps up and down on the unpaved road.
>"It's a bit unstable here. Back in the times before I was alive, I heard from my parents there were big highways connecting every city and town. Back in that time almost everyone had cars, and they got fuel from the oil in the ground. Now it's a bit of a luxury to own something like this I'm afraid."
"What changed? Why did people stop driving cars?"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6DGCIHRtT4
>"My parents told me that society was much more advanced before the Reckoning. That everyone had cars, and radios. Things were more civilized, more advanced."
"The Reckoning is the day all those natural disasters happened right?"
>"The way I hear it, it wasn't just the natural disasters. Monsters too poured in and devoured people. Our combined military might at the time was only just enough to keep humanity from the brink of annihilation. Much was lost. Society collapsed into anarchy. These were the stories my parents told me."
"That sounds scary.. Why did it happen?"
>"No one knows for sure. Some say it was just a freak occurrence of events. That the disasters led the monsters to seek refuge in the city or something. Others claim it was divine punishment for the hubris of mankind."

>>487185
"T-that sounds scary.. Tell me about something else.. Tell me, about Mom."
>"We're here, we'll talk more on the train."
>Dad parks the car outside the train station.
>You both gather your things and head into it.
"Dad, why aren't we just taking the car?"
>"The car isn't great on gas, and the train offers a direct route to Cnidaria."
>He flashes the tickets and you board the train.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5pY6bSHrH4
>"You wanted to know about your mother, what can I say? Red hair, fair skin. Beautiful."
"You mentioned she was an aristocrat?"
>"Her father was an Earl, and she was the sole heir to his title and estate making her a Countess by default."
"A countess?"
>"She had a lovely manor just outside the city and some servants."
"Why didn't she stay with you? I don't understand why a woman could be so cruel to you, to us.."
>"I want to believe it was the pressure of her peers. They didn't think it would look good for a woman of noble lineage to be involved with a mere farmer."
>You put your hand on his shoulder.
"Don't talk about yourself that way."
>"It's true. At the time being an unknown farmer way out in the southern countryside was not a particularly esteemed position. Though time would prove me the wiser as the scarcity for quality food increased so did my standing."
"You're way better than that witch. I'll never forgive her for casting us aside like that."
>"Now now, that was a long time ago. I've since buried whatever harsh feelings I may have had at the time. Only for your sake do I hold regrets. I wish you had a mother that could look after you the way you were meant to be."
You sit next to him and hug him.
"Dad, come on. You're the best father I could ever ask for. I.. I don't need a Mom. I have you, and you're all I need."
>He looks wistfully out the window.
>Silence for a while.
>You eat your candy.
>The chocolate is wonderful.
>"I'm sure the research facility will have plenty of interesting things in development for you to marvel at."
"Oh yeah. What kind of science are we going to see?"
>"They've already invented solar power, color changing clothing, radio devices that let you speak to someone else over a distance, handheld picture taker. Really it's a mystery what sort of other things they may have in development."
"So whatever it is, it's something new."
>"It'd better be or I'll be wasting my time haha."
>This train ride will probably be long.
>What should I be doing?

>>487193
Relax and watch the scenery by the windows. Once we get bored, read the magic book if we remembered to bring it. Otherwise talk your ear off to dad.

Ask dad questions about what we can see there besides the research. Also read the magic book if we brought it but don't practice magic inside the train.

>>487193
chat with dad and read books

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>>487347
>>487352
>>487384
>You decide to sit by the window and calmly read your book.
>You're passing the great mountain ranges dividing the north and south.
>But.. Time is passing so slowly..
>You're not used to sitting around for this long not doing ANYTHING.
"I'm gonna, eh, go use the ladies room."
>Father doesn't seem to pay your comment any mind.
>You walk off.
>It's been a while since you've been on a moving train.
>Suddenly without paying attention you bump into someone.
>"Ouch!"
"I-i'm sorry!"
>A girl with peach hair and a leather jacket is on the ground.
"L-let me help you up."
>You grab her hand.
>"Thanks. I'm sure you didn't mean to. This ride is hekka boring huh?"
"Hehe, yeah.. I'm uh-"
>"I'm Porter."
>She reaches out her hand.
>You shake it,
"Morgan."
>"You come here alone or something?"
"Oh, no, well. You see my Dad, he's bringing me to this science exhibit up in Cnidaria."
>"Oh sweet no way, my Dad is bringing me to that event too!"
"What a coincidence. Where are you from?"
>"I'm from Phylum in the south, what about you?"
"I'm from the south too. My Dad owns a farm way out in the countryside."
>"Oh man, is he that big farming tycoon that's been the talk of the town for a while now?"
"I guess so."
>"Let's get to know each other, it's rare to meet someone like you."
>She leads you to an empty set of seats.
>"I can't believe you're from the south too. AND you're getting invited to this big fancy science thing because of your Dad as well."
"Your Dad must be some sort of big industry powerhouse too huh?"
>"I guess you could say that. My Dad is a Baron, and he has quite a bit of resources at his disposal."
"Tell me more about you, what are you like?"
>"Me? Oh, well, I'm 19-"
"Me too! But tell me something that's unique about you."
>"Unique huh? Well.."
>She removes her coat.
>She lifts up her shirt and exposes her back.
>"Whaddya think?"
>A colorful blue dragon tattoo covers her back.
"Wow, that's pretty neat. Your Dad let you do that?"
>"Let's just say its, a family thing."
"So everyone in your family has one?"
>"Oh yeah, we all have tattoos."
"Family.. I bet you love your Dad too huh?"
>She's silent for a moment.
>"I.. Actually.. Really don't like my Dad."
"What? But he got you on this trip didn't he?"
>"This is his kind of way of making things up to me. He's hoping we'll be able to bond on the trip but.. I don't know.. It's personal."
"Sounds like you should patch things up with him."
>"But.. But he can be such a jerk sometimes! And he thinks just because he gets me all these gifts and stuff that I'm just going to go along with whatever he has in mind."
"Wow, that does sound personal. Sorry I asked."
>She grabs your hands looking you in the eyes.
>"No, it's great that you asked! I.. I haven't has anyone my age that I've been able to talk to about this stuff.

>>491061
--
>You and Porter talk and talk.
>And before you know it, the train arrives in Cnidaria.
--
"Dad, you won't believe it, I met this really cool girl in the train and-"
>"I know, I went looking for you and I saw you talking to her. I have some business to attend to anyhow, why don't you go catch up to her and we'll meet up later alright?"
"Um, alright, thanks Dad!"
>You go back and look around for Porter.
Your chance to make a real friend outside of the farm may have finally come!"
>Suddenly from behind you a tap on the shoulder.
>You whirl around.
"Whew, Porter, you scared me! I was looking for you-"
>"Me too! My Dad said it was cool if we hung out some more while he takes care of business."
"But.. What about your whole bonding thing?"
>"Its.. Not important. We'll have plenty of time for that later. Come on, let's explore the city together! It's been a long time since I've been to Cnidaria!"
>I wonder what we should do?

>>491062
>Ice cream bonding!

I want black chocolate with little slices of white chocolate inside and a cherry on top!

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>>491308
That sounds delicious, let's do that.

>>491062
Ask her how her home town is doing ours was doing rather badly until very recently.

>>491453
But don't forget the ice cream. We have to get our priorities straight. Also ask if she knows somewere local were to get a good knife and mention bandits and thieves. Just because big cities are better guarded doesn't mean you have to get careless.

She us from the south, she will understand.

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>>491525

Eeyup.

>>491525
I second this.

>>491308
>>491317
>>491453
>>491525
>>491541
>>492211

"It's super hot outside, lets go get some ice cream!"
>"Heh, you must be super hot in all that armor."
>You laugh.
"Maybe a little.."
>As you walk along you see all these decorative flags hanging from the surrounding buildings.
>And they all have a jellyfish emblazoned on them.
"There sure are a lot of these flags.."
>"Guess the folk up here are a little more patriotic that we are down south."
"Is it just me, or is that a Jellyfish on the flag there?"
>A few cars drive by alongside horse drawn wagons.
>"It is! Hmm, I wonder what it means."
>Suddenly you find an ice cream store.
>"The frosty polyp?"
>You both walk into the store.
>A friendly looking woman greets you.
>"Welcome! Table for two?"
"Yes please."
>"Hey, what's with all the Jellyfish flags outside anyhow?"
>She looks a bit confused for a moment.
>"Oh, you must be tourists. Here in Cnidaria, the Jellyfish is our national animal. In fact, we serve a special kind of ice cream-"
>She runs over to the window closing the shades and turning off the light.
>Suddenly you see glowing green ice cream shining in the darkness.
>"That glows in the dark using Jellyfish dna!"
>She opens the curtains back up, and turns on the light.
>"Woah!"
"That's so cool!"
>You both take your seat and look at the menus.
>"Boy things sure are weird here in Cnidaria."
"Tell me about it. I'm a real fish out of water."
>"I think you mean, a real, JELLYFISH out of water haha!"
You chuckle a bit, but then..
You suddenly remember Milly would make jokes like that too.
She probably would have really liked it up here.
>"What's wrong, you seem all sad all of a sudden?"
"My sister couldn't come with me on the trip."
>"No way, you have a sister?"
"She had to stay behind and watch over the farm.."
>"That's lame. How old is she?"
"She's 16. I'm the oldest."
>"I don't have any siblings. It must be fun having a little sister to run around and play with."
You pause.
"I.. I didn't spend a lot of time with her though.. She was usually off defending the farm, and I was usually working on it."
>"Wait.. What? Your LITTLE sister is defending the farm? And from what?"
"Well, we live out in the wilderness-"
>"Oh yeah that's right."
>The ice cream woman walks up.
>"Ladies, care to order anything?"
>"Gimmie a scoop of strawberry."
"I want black chocolate with little slices of white chocolate inside and a cherry on top!"
>"Alright, give me one second, I'll be back with your orders in no time."
"Yeah, well.. My younger sister Milly, she's really good at magic."
>"H-how good? I never was any good at that nerdy stuff. I mostly use a sword myself."
"She can blast away foes like nothing. And you can use a sword?"
>"Pfft of course. When you've grown up in the south, you have to be tough."
"Heh, that's true."
>The ice cream lady comes back with the ice cream.

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>>494082
>Setting a dish of your ice cream in front of you, and handing Porter a waffle cone with a scoop of strawberry ice cream in it.
>"Thanks."
>You bite into yours.
>Its so sweet and tasty.
>"It's been too long since I've had ice cream.. Must've been at least the last time I visited Cnidaria a few years ago."
"Same. Hey speaking of the south, how is your home town anyway?
>"My home town is great. Its a small town, but it's really starting to get larger. I'm sure my father is to thank for that."
You can tell there was some bitterness in the way she finished that sentence.
"Hey do you know a place where I can get a good knife?"
>"Hmm?"
"It's just, I hear a lot of bandits and thieves are around."
>"Oh man! Up here in the big city? I thought these folk were just a buncha stuffed shirt nobles. But I know your father has big connections, so coming from you I wouldn't doubt it."
"Even with the guards we have to be careful."
>"I bet. Let's get you to an armory or a blacksmith. Phew, I feel so out of place now! No wonder you're wearing all that armor."
"It's alright, if anything happens, I'll protect you no matter what."
>She coughs almost hacking up bits of the waffle cone shes bitten off.
>"Y-you're serious?"
"Sure. Anything for a friend."
>"Y-you really think of me as a friend?"
"Yeah."
>Shes beaming and you can almost see little tear droplets in her eyes shes holding back.
>"T-that means so much! Thanks.. I'll protect you too!"
"Right, let's watch each others backs."
>"You got it."

>You get all suited up in your new armor.
"Ok, I said I didn't want anything to change as far as the kind of armor I was wearing.."
>"Trust me, I may be a poor magician, but I know a lot about fighting. You really want a big hunk of plate on your chest when you're trying to swing around those knives? You're already wearing chainmail!"
"I-i know it's just.."
>You cover up your pelvic region.
"T-this armor is a little revealing."
>"Looks good on ya. It'll help with your mobility! Look at how free your legs are! You can pivot and jot around!"
"Yeah, but now my lower legs are weighed down by plate!"
>She gives your leg plates a knock with her fists.
>"Hear that? This is lighter and made with different metals. You can still run."
"I don't know about this.."
>"You'll be fine. Look at me, I've picked up a katana."
"What about armor for you?"
>"What are you talking about? I'm already wearing leather."
>She gives you a cheeky smile as she points to her coat.
>You sigh.
-------

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>>494084
>You both pick up short wave radios from a nearby shop.
>And before you go you each get one and tune it to the right frequency.
>You head to an inn in Cnidaria, and ask which room your father is staying in.
>And it isn't long before you find it and head back to him.
>By this time, it's late at night.
>You retire to bed for the night.
---------
>It's the next day and you and Dad head over to the research lab.
>You're shown in right away and head inside.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7M-Ln4EbmKY
>"Welcome to Cnidarias premier research facility. Home to all of the latest advancements that have happened over the decades. Everything from radios, to energy, we are the hub for the scientific advancement of the human species. Our research really began some 80 years ago, sometime before the great cataclysm you all know as the 'reckoning'."
>As he's saying all this, you're passing huge tanks of Jellyfish and people in labcoats are writing down notes on their clipboards.
>Porter is here too.
>She nudges your arm.
>"Guess the Jellyfish obsession is here to huh?"
>You giggle but the researcher tour guide takes notice.
>He has a satisfactory smug expression.
>"I see you must be unfamiliar with the value the Jellyfish has provided to the scientific community. For you see, the Jellyfish, is not just a symbol of our country, we believe it may be the key to the next step in human evolution."
>He unveils a small tank with a little transparent jellyfish in it.
>"BEHOLD! Turritopsis dohrnii, or as some of us like to call it, the immoral Jellyfish."
"Immortal?"
>"Yeah, what's so special about it?"
>A young man walks up.
>"It's more special than you know."
>"Meet Docker, a 115 year old man, currently going through a reverse metamorphosis as we speak."
>He's pointing to the man, who seems about mid-twenties or so.
"This guy is 115?"
>He holds up an old photo, and in it, seems to be a withered man with the same facial features and clothing as the one standing in front of you.
>The tour group gasps, you included.
>Your father exclaims,
>"Unbelievable!"
>"Believe it. Once we are able to fully mass produce the effects of this Jellyfish, which can reverse it's aging cycle. We can reset the clock on mankind's destruction. Overturn the foundations of nature."
"Overturn the foundations of nature?"
>"Nature once tried to destroy mankind, and we survived, but barely. But this time, we will overcome it's design. And once man overcomes nature, he will dominate the globe."
>The tour group applauds his little speech.
>He takes a bow.
>"If you'll just follow me, I have the forms to sign if you care to make a donation."
>I wonder what I should be doing?

>>494087
> You remenber some old men in your town saying the contrary. That it was man exploitation of nature that lead to disaster. But that was when you were little and they were drunk plus you know is a bad idea to say anything. You are just a "ignorant" farm girl after all. You will just talk with dad about it later.

So you decide to hang out with your new friend and maybe get books about healing and Earth magic.

>>494087

>Hang out with your new friend

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>>494309
>>494636
>You try to talk to Dad about what happened.
"Hey um-"
>"Not now Morgan, I'm trying to get this business here taken care of."
"But what about-"
>"Run along now, I'm sure you can find something to do while I'm taking care of business."
>Dads being awfully curt today.
>Although you suppose anyone in his position would be.
>You try to find Porter but it doesn't take long.
>"Your Dad send you away too?"
"Uh-huh."
>"Rich Dads and their business deals with Jellyfish obsessed scientists right?"
>You chuckle.
"Right."
>"Excuse me, girls."
>One of the researchers approaches the two of you.
>"I couldn't help noticing the two of you are armed."
"Oh shoot are we not allowed to have weapons in here?
>"My bad girl. I'm Porter, and this is my friend Morgan."
>"I'm Jailene. And actually it's fine that you have weapons. I need your help actually."
"Need OUR help? As in, the two of us specifically?"
>"Do you see anyone else around?"
>"She has a point."
"Alright, well.. What can we do?"
>"I was just wondering if you girls wanted to come into the woods with me. I promise nothing bad will happen."
>"Go to the woods? Whats out there?"
>"In Frostrose forest I've been getting particularly high energy readings. But they're really deep inside. And there are monsters in the woods which are too strong and numerous for me to take the trip safely to investigate."
>Porter pumps her arm muscle.
>"No problem Jailbird. We'd be happy to kick some monster butt for you! I mean, if it's cool with Morgan that is."
>Oh man, what should I do?

>>496297
Say "Going with a stranger to the woods? Dad warned me against people like you. Besides this place must pay well, why can't just hire a few guards?" Then wisper to Porter about what you dad warned you against.

Dady raised no dumb girl that would follow a stranger to the woods.

>>496349
I agree, we are a farm girl, not stupid.

>>496349
>>496362
"Going with a stranger to the woods? Dad warned me against people like you. Besides this place must pay well, why can't just hire a few guards?"
>"You'd be surprised how little someone like me gets paid. I didn't sign on for the pay that's for sure. I signed on because I wanted to learn more about what's going on in the world."
>You whisper to Porter,
"These are the kind of people Dad warned me about."
>"U-uh, yeah, I mean. Totally sketchy, I wasn't going to buy it for a second."
"I say we get outta here."
>"Right."
>"Wait! How will I be able to complete my research now?"
>You say nothing.
>"I thought you guys were studying Jellyfish."
>Jailene goans.
>"We study more than one thing here. This has to do with the safety of our entire planet you know?"
"Wait what?"
>"Listen, ever since I was a little kid and I heard the stories about the reckoning, I was fascinated and terrified that such an event took place. There are actually still places in the city right now that bear the scars. Cracks in the pavement from when the very earth was torn asunder."
>"No way, thats crazy."
>"I wasn't around at the time, I'm only 22. But from the stories the old folks tell, and the physical evidence left behind suggests massive climate and tectonic change. I hypothesize that the earth itself has an energy, similar to how we use magic. When the energy spikes that's when the disasters are likely to occur. But I need to gather data from all the places that the energy is spiking. And that means going to all these places.. But I can't do it alone. And I've tried getting colleges to come with me, but.. No one wants to get near these monster infested areas. Please help."
>"This doesn't change anything. We still don't know you."
"Do you think, the earth is still in danger, even now?"
>"There really isn't anything stopping a second 'reckoning' from taking place right now."
"A-are you serious?"
>"If we think about the elements which might have caused the first big disasters, there really isn't any part of the equation that's any different from before. Why should we feel safe when the same thing could happen again?"
>Suddenly the head of the tour guide gives Jailene a pat on the shoulder.
>"I'm so sorry. Is Jailene bothering you with her crazy conspiracy theories?"
>"They're not crazy! A second reckoning could happen."
>"Riiight. Just like the time you said the earth was warming up because of all of the pollution. There's still snow in the winter Jailene, if the earth is warming up, why is it still cold in the winter huh?"
>"I-its just heating up at a very slow pace you imbecile!"
>"You two can feel free to run along now. Jailene won't be bothering you anymore."
>"Phew, that's a load off my mind, come on Morgan, let's get going."
"R-right.."
--
>"That girl was weird huh?"
"Yeah."
>"Well, I guess we have some time to do whatever now. Where do you wanna go?"
>Hmm..

>>496467
To buy a book about healing and another about Earth magic, maybe comic books if they still make those?

Has dad given us extra money? We could try a spa if that's the case.

Also pollution has lowered a lot since the cataclysm simply because humans generate a lot less of it.

In places were is possible, they used eolic and hydroelectric energy as is safer than brave the mountain monsters for coal.

A few cities in deserts even have use of solar energy, although is rare.

Of course that only tends to happen were the rich live or so those travellers told you.

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>>496493
Let's buy those magic books and go to the spa.

>>496493
>>496787
>>497067

New bread.