Morgan Farmgirl Adventures 4

>>528275
>Meanwhile back on Mortaali farms..
>"Agh, I think I have callouses from shucking all this corn.. That Milly is a real slave driver.."
>"I'd shuck her corn."
>"She's a haywoman Mashiro."
>"Have you seen those hay bales she's got on that chest of hers? That sweet smile and adorable face?"
>"I mean, she's alright."
>"Yeah, maybe a 6 outta ten."
>"Milly is perfect."
>"Watcha guys talking about back here?"
>"E-er nothing! Just shucking corn like you ordered."
>"Really, because it sounded like you were making lewd remarks about me."
>"I-it was him!"
>"Yeah Mashiro was the one who's got a thing for you."
>"Way to have my back guys. Geez.."
>Milly has a delightfully smug grin.
>"I-i'm sorry."
>"I think I know just the thing for you."
>Mashiro swallows hard.
>The other workers are snickering softly behind him as Milly stands menacingly in front of him.
--
>"S-so, are you sure this is safe? I mean, fighting the monsters like this?"
>"I've done it my whole life."
>"Pfft, your whole life? Even when you were a kid?"
>"Yeah."
>"Oh.. Er.."
>"Looks like we got some Rat-Crows to deal with, you ready?"
>"You expect me to kill these with a crummy old machete? I'm gonna die for sure!"
>"You'll be fine! Here they come!"
>"Ahh!"
---

2/4

>>528281
>Mashiro and Milly are sitting on the porch together.
>"So.. You do this kind of thing every day?"
>"Some nights too. When I feel the monsters are getting too close."
>"Feel them getting close?"
>"I can sense the locations of plants. So I store strings of berries as sort of traps to alert me when monsters are coming close to the farm."
>Mashiro seems astonished.
>"It's like some kind of advanced security system."
>"It's annoying sometimes because birds will eat the berries so I have to keep making them."
>"You're.. Really dedicated. I could never be like you."
>Milly puts her hand on Mashiros shoulder.
>"You will someday. You just have to find the thing that you really want and go for it."
>He looks down at his feet.
>"The thing I really want huh?"
>"Yep."
>"So, this is what you want then?"
>Milly is oddly quiet for a moment.
>"Not really. Actually, my sister is out on a trip to the northern city. She gave me some candy from the north, and it was really tasty. I wish I could have gone with.. I want to make sure she's ok. And it would be nice to explore a new area too."
>"You've never been to the north?"
>"Nope.. I've wanted to go when Morgan or Dad went but.. I always have to stay behind."
>"Thats.. Sad."
>"But I'm not mad or anything! I'm happy that they come back. And they share their goodies with me.. And they tell me about all their fun adventures."
>Mashiro is quiet for a moment.
>"So.. Thats what you really want right?"
>"Yeah.. But it'll never happen because I'll always have to watch the farm."
>"W-what if.."
>"Huh?"
>"What if.. Maybe I, could watch over the farm in your place? And fight monsters just like we did today?"
>Milly smiles.
>"Thats nice. But you don't have to do that for me."
>Mashiro grabs Millys hands.
>"But.. W-what if I WANT to do that for you?"
>"M-mashiro.."
>"I-if you teach me.. I can try and takeover for you. Then you'll get to spend time with your sister."
>"But.. Why?"
>"B-because.. I.. Really like you Milly."
>Milly hugs Mashiro.
>"That's so thoughtful.. And then I really will get to go to the north.. Just like I've always wanted.."
>"I promise I'll take care of this farm and defend it no matter what."
>"We'll get started bright and early tomorrow morning."
>"Sounds great Milly, I can't wait.. When should I wake up?"
>"About 3 in the morning."
>"T-three?"
>"I was going to say 1, but I didn't want to overwhelm you."
>Mashiro smiles nervously.

3/4

>>528285
>It's late at night.
>Porter knocks on your door.
>"I know it's late."
"No, it's alright. Whats up?"
>"I.. Wanted to talk to you alone.. Tonight."
"What for? Can't it wait till morning?"
>"I.. Can't sleep so.. I need to get it off my chest."
"Sounds serious. Let's go."

>It's later outside of town.
"Porter, I'm really tired, what's going on? Are you drunk?"
>"I'm not.. I'm actually, thinking clearly."
>She grabs your hands.
>"Morgan, I.. I want you to know, that you're the best friend I've ever had."
"P-porter.. I.. You're my best friend too, aside from my sister."
>"You always said to me, that I could tell you anything.."
"What are you getting at? Porter I don't think I like where this is going."
>"Morgan.. I.. My Father.."
"Are, you finally going to open up about your Dad?"
>"My Dad, is the leader of the southern bandits."
>Silence for a moment.
>You laugh.
"T-that's a good one Porter.. Heh.. Good joke.. Your Dad, he's a Baron isn't he?"
>"He is."
>It hits you like a brick.
"N-no.."
>"He bought his way into the aristocracy, using stolen goods from the southern people."
"It can't be.."
>"This tattoo of the Blue dragon on my back."
>She shows it to you again.
>"It's not just a pretty marking. It's a symbol of the gang my father belongs to, the gang that terrorizes the south. The Wyverns of Pestilence."
"All this time Porter.. How could you lie to me!?"
>"I didn't!"
"You said he was a Baron, and that you were the lady. That you had employees who worked under your Dad that were like brothers to you."
>"All of that was true. The members of our gang are tight knit, so of course they're like brothers."
"B-but.. I thought we were friends, I thought I could trust you! And now you come and tell me your Dad is the kingpin of the biggest criminal organization on the southern half of the continent? How could you just lie to me that way?!"
>"I never lied to you! Everything I said was true.. Right down to hating my father."
"What?"
>"The reason, I hate my father, is because he does those things. Because he extorted the people of the south in order to secure his place at the top. I never wanted to be the daughter of a Baron. Or have some fancy title bestowed upon me."
"Why haven't you tried to stop him-"
>She grabs you by the scruff.
>"You don't think I've tried!? He never listens to me! He thinks just because he buys me all these nice things he can pacify me and purchase my cooperation."
"Porter.."
>"I.. I just wanted to come clean.. It's not something I'm proud of and.."
>Porter starts tearing up.
>"I didn't want to keep it a secret from you any longer."
"I-"
>"I want us to be friends still.. And I.. Couldn't bear the thought of not being around you, and hanging out, and going on fun adventures."
>You can't find the words to speak.
>"But then.. I would understand, if this is too much.. And you.. No longer wanted to be friends with someone like me."
>Tears are streaming down her face, and she's teetering on hysterics right now.
>What should I do?
4/4

>>528288
Porter I'm still your friend.

>>528288
Hug and say it ain't her fault, sleepover?

>>528281
Working with hay irritates your skin pretty bad, what kind of retard would want to stick their dick on it!

>>528303
With a lot of lube
and a condom to boot
he could hit the hay
with Milly any day

>>528333
Kek
>>528303
I second this.

>>528288
I'm am still your friend.
The sins of your father are not your own.

>>528303
>Hug and say it ain't her fault, sleepover?

>>528392
This.

>>528295
>>528303
>>528333
>>528344
>>528390
>>528392
>>528614
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4Za8VR5g94
"Porter, I'm still your friend."
>"W-what-?"
>You give her a hug.
>"B-but I-"
"It ain't your fault. The sins of your father are not your own."
>She firmly returns your embrace.
>"I'm.. So happy you're accepting me.."
>She sobs into you.
>You pat her back.
"It's ok."
>Porter wipes away her tears with her sleeves.
>"Well, it's.. Gonna be kinda weird now to just go back to my place all alone after all of this.."
>You smile.
"Wanna spend the night with me? We could have a sleepover."
>"Heh, isn't that for little kids?"
"So, is that a-"
>"Of course I'll come jeez."

>You're at your place unlocking the door.
>"Are you sure your Dad is ok with me crashing here for the night?"
"I'm sure he won't mind. I have my own little room."
>You open the door.
>You lead Porter into your room and shut the door turning on the light.
>"Neat.. Hey theres only one bed."
"I thought I mentioned that.. Well, I guess I could take the floor."
>"No way. It's a pretty big bed, I'm sure we could both use it.. Er, if you don't mind.."
"Sure. It'll be just like sleeping with my sister when I was little."
>Porter sits down on the end of your bed.
>"I'd love to meet her. I'm sure she's really nice."
"She is. I miss her now that I'm out here.. I wish she could have come on our little trip."
>You and Porter stay up late, listen to the radio, and read books together.
>Eventually you both get tired and decide to go to bed.
>Her body is so warm.. Just like Milly.
>She grabs your hand.
>"I just wanted to say, I'm really happy we're still friends."
"I'm happy too."
>"Best friends forever, right?"
"Best friends forever."
>She hugs you.
>Enveloped in her soft warmth.
>You feel content.
>You fall asleep cuddled up to one another.
------

>You get a knock on the door.
>You ignore it hoping Dad will get it.
>But after a few more knocks you realize Dad must have left.
>"Don't worry Morg, I got it.
"I'll go too."
>Porter in her blue t shirt and your pajama bottoms answers the door.
>Her hair all messy from sleep.
>Jailene is at the door.
>"I knew you two were close, but I didn't realize things had gone this far between you."
>Porter realizing the implications suddenly blushes.
>"I-it's not like that! We're just friends is all!"
>"I'm not one to judge. It must be nice to have found someone you can be so intimate with."
"It isn't like that.. We just slept together! Nothing happened!"
>Jailene is giving you both a flat look.
>"Anyhow, I was just wondering if there's room between the two of you that we could all maybe do something fun together."
>What should I be doing?

>>530743
>>What should I be doing?
You should be asking for clarification. This is not one of her lewd paperbacks.

>>530773
But seriously, after a wash and some breakfast, probably keen. You have nothing else on. Although it would be nice if she could try teach us a little healing magic at some point.

>>530743
Maybe we could practice magic or you can tell us what there is to do in the city

>>530785
"Didn't you promise to help us with healing magic? I mean is the whole reason we agreed to act as your bodyguards the other day."

>>530895
This. She didn't think we forgot did she?

>>530773
>>530776
>>530785
>>530895
>>530898
"Hey, what do you mean by that? This isn't one of your lewd paperbacks.. And besides didn't you promise to help us with healing magic? I mean is the whole reason we agreed to act as your bodyguards the other day."
>"Very well.. Get ready and we'll head out I suppose."
--------

>As you're walking through town, you find a familiar face.
>"Good day to you Morgan."
>Her sick grin is giving you a terrible feeling in the pit of your stomach.
"Cantolide.."
>"I was just having myself a stroll last night. And you will not believe the tale that graced my ears."
>"Is this the chick you were talking about Morg?"
>"That's her, that's the commander herself."
>Cantolide speaks smugly.
>"My reputation precedes me."
>"Your reputation as a bitch!"
>Porter unsheathes her katana.
>Guards immediately rush to the scene, but Cantolide waves them off.
>"How very unlike the daughter of a noble. Your manners could use some work. You see Morgan? This is the sort of rabble that we allow to infiltrate the ruling class. How did the need for reform become so dire?"
>Porter snarls.
>"Keep talking, I'll spill your blood on this pavement without hesitation!"
>One of the guards shout.
>"Lady Cantolide! Allow us to defend you, we'll take care of this!"
>"As amusing as that would be, I'm afraid it won't be required. I didn't come to start a fight."
"Why are you here?"
>"You and your little group did a great service to Cnidaria. The file contained several important documents that I thought I might inform you about."
"Why?"

>>533712
>"I need people like you Morgan. I know you're the driving force behind this. Your father saw something in you when he ordained you to speak with me that day, and I'm beginning to see what it was."
"I.. I still don't agree with your position about overthrowing the government."
>"Morgan, sweetie. Don't you see? We've allowed a criminal into our sacred institutions."
She brushes past Porters blade and slides her hand along your cheek.
>"Don't you think theres something wrong with that?"
"T-thats true but-"
>"I promised I would help your southern towns. With your support, we can save the south."
>Porter puts her blade to Cantolides throat.
>"Get away from her!"
>"Do you really want someone like Porters father, a murderer and a thief to be in charge of things?"
>Porter swings her blade to cut her throat.
>Cantolide jumps back at the last second leaving only a minor cut on her neck.
>She seems unfazed.
>"Did you know, that after the reckoning, there were a lot of dead bodies left behind in Cnidaria?"
"What, does that have to do with anything?"
>"They littered the streets. More were dead than left living. The survivors loaded all of them out on the remaining boats. We carried them out to sea. After that we dumped them en masse into the ocean, where the beasts of the sea devoured their flesh. Tales passed down and written into infamy."
>Porter has a confused expression.
>"The bones still wash up occasionally. Society, or what was left collapsed into anarchy. People were stolen from, murdered. It was a time of lawlessness, and madness. It still remains that way to some degree. Powerless to stop it's flow, like the waves of the ocean. I want to bring order back into the world. But it seems you would rather it stay in the hands of the corrupt."
"I don't approve of how people can just buy their way into royalty. But what else is there?"
>"I think you already know. Anyhow, fishermen have reported being attacked more frequently out at sea. And monsters from it have been seen dragging victims into the waters. Such is the norm for a city by the sea. The military has been called in to quell the seas of Undulaja, the gravescape of the old world."
"Thats horrible. You should have just mentioned that, how can we help?"
>"You're really going to help this witch?"
"It's not about her Porter, it's about the people."
>"Tommorrow. We're dawning our scuba gear to fight hand to hand against the monsters."
>"Ha! You expect to beat sea creatures underwater? What are you going to do, swordfight them?"
>Jailene seems to back up slouching her head into the folds of her turtleneck.
>"We're not so helpless as you would think."
And with that, Cantolide walks away.
--------

>>533715
>You're outside of the city practicing healing magic with Jailene.
>"Just like this, feel the afflicted area, sync with their energy."
"It's.. It's hard."
>"Reconnect the broken parts, use your positive energy to soothe and repair the tissue."
>Porter is sparring against a tree.
>"That dumb bitch thinks shes so cool just walking in and talking to us like that. And then she had the nerve to put her filthy hands on you."
"I'm fine Porter."
>"Just give the word and I'll cut the head right off that snake."
"Porter don't. We don't want trouble. Believe it or not, Cantolide is a good person."
>"Are.. You being serious right now?"
"She's helped people. And I'm sure she's just a little misguided."
>Porter sighs.
>"You're so naive."
"I know she wants to help people. I know she doesn't want our world to go to ruin."
>Porter growls.
>"Why don't you just go off and join her little fanclub then? I'm sure her army could use gullible people like you."
"What is wrong with you?"
>"Gee I dunno? Maybe my best friend is being a complete idiot right now. You sound like you're about ready to join her in that revolution."
"It's not that, you don't understand. She has good intentions!"
>"Yeah, and the road to hell is paved with them. Question is, will you follow her down it?"
"I.."
>She walks over to you and places her hand on you.
>"I'm trying to look out for you. I don't want to see you get hurt."
"I know what I'm doing! I'm not a little kid!"
>"I know Morg. I just want you to keep your guard up."
---

>The day is done, and you can now repair minor cuts and bruises.
>You go to bed alone.
------

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>>533717
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycmjyx6hHU0
>It's the next day, and you go to meet Cantolide and her people with Porter and Jailene in tow at the docks.
>The sky looks dark and cloudy.
>It's raining.
>"I see you decided to show. Here, put these wetsuits on."
You, Porter and Jailene do so.
>"This will be dangerous, I won't lie. But we can't have sea monsters dragging citizens into the ocean."
"How are we going to fight these monsters down there?"
>"Well, you won't be able to wear any of that armor down there, but.."
>She hands you a vial with glowing white fluid in it.
>"Listen to me. This stuff is very dangerous. Once you pour it on your weapons, you are not to touch them by the blade under any circumstances."
"W-why? I mean, I wouldn't touch the blade of my weapons anyway?"
>Jailene pipes up,
>"That's pure essence of Chironex fleckeri, the most venomous animal on the face of the planet. One sting will kill you in a minute to a minute and a half."
"T-that's crazy.."
>"Even if you survive you'll be scarred. Once your weapon is coated it'll spout small tentacles, which contain the nematocysts capable of penetrating the foe and injecting it with the venom at a lightning fast speed."
>"W-what the hell are these crazy Cnidarians even doing with technology like that? Morg this is crazy.."
"I know but.. We need to help the people."
>You all coat your weapons with the stuff.
>Jailene is given a speargun.
>You all board a boat and head out to sea.
--
>"Alright so heres how it'll go! We all dive in and kill whatever is down there! No prisoners, no survivors! Stay together no matter what!"
"W-wait, everything?"
>"Anything that looks like it can kill you, kill it first!"
>You sigh.
>All of you dive into the icy waters of Undulaja.
>You click on your scuba lights.
>You descend into the depths.
>You see the other soldiers attacking mermaids with their weapons.
>Which upon being stricken the mermaids seize up and bleed in a very violent way that seems painful.
>You see two Octopus Mermaids come at you.
>How should you proceed?

>>533719
>Mermaids
Maybe I haven't been paying attention but are these mermaids actually monsters or have we been tricked into the commanders ploy for racial genocide? Either way
>Get Porter to take one while you take the other. Just stab and back off to let the poison do its thing.

Why is Jailene here? I got the impression that she was useless in a fight.

>>533731
Supporting.

>>533731
Ask about whether these mermaids cause harm. Traditionally, mermaids lead men to Sea so that they can drown them.

>>533731
Ditto, why is Jail here?
>Let's be careful, this could be a plot to get us killed.

>>534050
Agreed. She recluits a mere farmgirl and a scientist that's useless in a fight then gives them weapons with lethal venom. A farm girl who didn't want to lend her money.

Let's just fight very carefully to not get poisoned.

>>533731
>>533731
>tricked into the commanders ploy for racial genocide?
>>534050
>this could be a plot to get us killed.
We're going to murder innocent creatures, be told later, and then our guilt will be used against us.
At least it sound like a trap of some sort.

Can we try to capture one or two mermaid and bring them somewhere we can talk? If they're sentient, that is.

>>535428
Not with lethal weapons we can't. And knowing Morgan she will just blame that one that dragged her into this even if she feels guilty.

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>>533731
>>533733
>>533802
>>534050
>>534057
>>535428
>>535428
>>535452

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4XCk2HFdNc
>You hold the glowing blades with it's flowing tentacles.
>It seems to radiate a sort of faint light.
>The Octopus Mermaids come close.
>They seem.. More human than you accounted for.
>Sure, other monsters were humanoid too.
>But.. Are these ones really bad?
>Porter moves forward, but you hold her back.
>You can't speak to her underwater, but you manage to convey that you don't want to attack these mermaids.
>The mermaids observe you for a moment, but you choose not to engage them.
>For that moment you make eye contact with them, as they stare across from you.
>The other soldiers are continuing their onslaught.
>The octopus mermaids decide to leave you alone and go to fight against the soldiers.
>You and your group surface.
>Rain pelts you from above as you do.
>"Morg, what the heck, why'd you stop me?"
"I.. I don't know, I mean.. They look human. Is this really the right thing to do?"
>"I dunno. Jail what have you got to say on this? Also why are you here?"
>"You think I'm going to leave my friends to go off on a dangerous mission on their own? Morgan is a novice healer, and if you sustain serious injury then what?"
>"Guess I didn't think about that."
>"Besides, I was looking forward to exploring the ocean."
>"Hey.. That's not a bad Idea. I mean, who says we have to do what Cantaloupe asks? Come on Morg, lets go on a little dive and see what we can find."
"But.. Won't we get in trouble?"
>"Nah, it's not like they can keep track of how many we've killed. If anything, we can just lie and say we killed everything we came across."
"Hmm.. I've never been diving before.."
>Jailene smiles.
>"I've been a few times on research trips. It's so enchanting, I believe there's a little reef not far from here you'll really like."
"O-ok.."

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>>536719
>You and Porter follow Jailene to a coral reef.
>The reef is so colorful and vibrant.
>All around it are fishes of many different types.
>Fish you've never actually seen face to face.
>As you swim closer you get a better look at the reef in all it's beauty.
>You see a sea turtle swim by.
>Your weapons are sheathed.
>Nothing about this place seems harmful at all, in fact it's lovely.
>You wish Dad and Milly could see it too.
>Suddenly you see a small jellyfish girl swimming toward you.
>Jailene and Porter seem to have noticed as well.
>She's just staring at you.
>Is she curious?
>You go closer.
>She flits away slightly.
>But after a moment or two more of observing you she comes even closer to you.
>She seems to smile.
>She waves in a familiar motion.
>It seems she wants you to follow.
>You decide to follow the little Jellyfish girl.
>Porter and Jailene accompany you.

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>>536720
>You and her go away from the reefs.
>Deep down into the open ocean.
>The water seems a bit colder.
>Going down you see all kinds of mermaids, and free floating Jellyfish as well.
>The Jellyfish seem so majestic and pretty.
>There seems to be some kind of underwater society down here.
>She leads you down to a huge chasm area, wherein you see a shining yellow creature from far away.
>But as you dive deeper and approach it, you realize it's actually a very large Jellyfish Mermaid.
>Her body seems about twice as big as a normal human woman should be in every aspect.
>Her bell flows elegantly from her waist, and she shines with a ethereal yellow glow.
>She speaks.
>"I am Nirvanica Cosmosis. Welcome surface dwellers."
>She waves her hand, and a yellowish transparent platform appears below the three of you, and you sink onto it.
>She waves her hand again and removes your breathing masks, but you find that you can actually breathe just fine now.
>"Speak, I would hear of your tales."
"I.. I can talk down here!"
>"Fascinating. I didn't realize mermaids possessed such sorcery."
>"I am very old, and few possess power to my extent."
>"So uh, Nirvanica, we hear mermaids have been dragging people into the water, and drowning them?"
>She seems saddened by this.
>"War looks good on neither party I'm afraid."
"War? This is the first I've heard of it."
>"Our ocean has been heavily polluted. Our coral reefs are being destroyed. This way of life, which we have lived since the beginning is being threatened. Some 100 years or so, your people admired us, some humans even knew me by name. But this was long ago."
>"I'm curious to know what happened to you all during the reckoning. Do you know of it? Were you and your people affected in any way?"
>"We retreated to undersea caves, and were not greatly affected at all. However your people incurred the wrath of the earth. And so they were smitten."
>You, Porter, and Jailene are dumbfounded.
"A-are you saying what the old ones say is true? That pollution really did bring about the end?"
>"It wasn't just that. It was the over-usage of resources, genocide of weaker species. I know that not all humans are so short-sighted, but many are. I was sad to see so many fall to the ocean on that day. Out of respect we did not feed upon them."

>>536722
>"What caused this act of war?"
>"We met with your nobles, and your army. But they would not heed our warnings. Their greed and eagerness to repair their nation has blinded them."
"I.. I'm sorry to hear that. This ocean is so pretty. I would hate to see it ruined."
>She presses her hand to your chest.
>It's so warm and it makes you feel at ease.
>"You have a pure heart child."
>Little Jellyfish girls come and place seashell necklaces upon the three of you.
>"I can tell the three of you have no ill intent. With these, you may breathe underwater without the need for equipment, and you can speak underwater as well."
"We appreciate this Nirvanica."
>"Rad, I guess we can come back anytime then."
>"This will make research so much easier. You have my thanks great Jellyfish queen."
>"You are welcome. Please, make yourself at home here. Our city has not had human visitors in a great many years."
"Hold on.. Aren't the humans at war with you? Won't the Mermaids get mad to see humans in their city?"
>"The necklace is proof of my approval. You are honored guests within the city as long as you wear them."
"Great!"
>"It's been a while, but I remember reading an old fairy tale describing a Jellyfish Goddess. And the cities ties with Jellyfish are certainly interesting. I wonder if perhaps humans have had more interactions in the past with mermaids than we realized?"
"Seems likely."
>"I would have never believed it if I didn't see it with my own eyes."
>What should I be doing?

>>536725
Keep the shells hidden and don't talk about them to anyone on the surface.
We keep that a secret for the moment, at least until we are 100% sure who the good/bad guys are.
They are very powerful and I'd be saddened if they were used for evil purposes.

Now, do we try to stop this war or something? What do we have to gain from submarine allies?

>>536816

>Agreed.

Also

>Ask about magic

"I apologise if this seems too forward, but may any of your subjects be able to teach my friend Porter about magic? She is not grounded enough for Earth magic but her mood does change like water."

Also Porter with her temper and fire magic would be a disaster, same with wind.

>>536961
This.

And yeah no fire magic for our agresive friend.

And there is no much we can do to stop the war. Even if dad became a noble the other nobles would not listen.

The mermaids can just retreat from the coasts for now. Human tech doesn't seem to have submarines and the diving suits probably cannot last more than a few hours Underwater.

>>536816
>>536961
>>536981
"I apologize if this seems too forward, but may any of your subjects be able to teach my friend Porter about magic? She is not grounded enough for Earth magic but her mood does change like water."
>"Hey what's that supposed to mean?"
>"You wish to learn to control the water?"
>"I.. er, well I guess. I'm not real good at academic stuff."
>"Staria is an accomplished sorceress. She can help you."
>"I.. Ok then.."
>"If you plan to extend your stay, maybe you can join use for dinner?"
"I.. That's nice."
>"Yo Morg, how are we going to eat underwater?"
>"The hall of Colliyca is a dry place under the water. It was often used as the meeting place between humans and Jellyfish. Back when humans dared to venture into the water."
>"So if it's dry, how do YOU use it?"
>"We can shapeshift into humans for a short time. It's how we met with your People on land to discuss the pollution."
>"It seems that mermaids possess a large array of talents."
"We are grateful, thank you Nirvanica."
-----

>You're in the hall of Colliyca. Porter is training with a Jellyfish Mermaid learning about water magic.
>Meanwhile you're practicing earth magic.
>Jailene is exploring the building and is asking questions about the culture of the Mermaids.
>"It seems you're quite adept for someone who's never used magic before."
>"I never knew it could be this simple. I seem to always get lost in the texts before I ever learn anything."
>Porter is swirling around a little stream of water in midair with her magic.
>You're trying to focus on moving some rocks you gathered from the ocean.
>You begin to get a feel for their texture, and are able to levitate them swirling them around you.
>The rocks are around the size of a beach ball.
>The book mentioned being able to manipulate the shape of rocks.
>But it seems far too advanced for now.
>At this point you can only seem to levitate large rocks.
>All you can think right now is that you must keep the shells a secret.
>At least until you can figure out who the good guys and the bad guys are.
>You want to believe that Cantolide has good intentions.
>But, this whole fight against these mermaids seems mad to you.
>Surely there must be a way war can be avoided?

>>539196
>You're sitting down to eat with Nirvanica, and some of her followers.
>They're all in human form.
>They're dressed formally and they look very dignified.
>You feel out of place here.
>She taps her wine glass.
>"Today, we welcome our new friends into Cyanea. It is nice to know that among humans are still bright curious minds. They thirst for knowledge, and seek peace as well."
"You.. You make us seem so glorious. But.. We're just kids honestly."
>Jailene seems upset by this.
>"Speak for yourself, I'm 26."
>"I mean no offense, but you all seem like mere children in my eyes. I mean this positively. There are children still growing up right up on the surface, and that makes me happy."
"But.. We, I at least, am not that great.. I'm a terrible fighter, an awful swordsman, a novice healer, and an amateur mage. I don't deserve any praise. My father, he gave me everything I have. What right do I have to sit among you and boast?"
>"Morg.."
>Nirvanica gently places her hand on your shoulder.
>"I'm sure your father values you a great deal. For him to place his trust in you, he must see something special."
"I.. I appreciate what you're trying to say. But there isn't anything special about me."
>"Morg, come on. Why are you acting all down all of a sudden."
>"Porter is right, I wouldn't be here learning about this undersea civilization if it weren't for you."
>"And I wouldn't be learning water magic, or learned anything about the world. Being on this journey has already taught me so much."
>"It's taught me many things as well. You may be a novice, but a novice is still someone who tries."
>"That's right."
>"Well Morgan, it seems your friends think there is many things that are special about you."
"You.. Really believe that?"
>"We wouldn't be here without you Morg."
>"No one starts out an expert. And you have great potential. Please don't be so hard on yourself."
"Alright."
>You dine upon a gourmet seafood dinner of lobster and shrimp.
>"It seems you have no problems eating other sea creatures great queen."
>"We respect our prey. It's given us the ability to thrive and perceive the world in an intelligent manner."
"You're.. So wise and so mature miss Nirvanica. I wish I could be like you."
>"I have learned many things in my years. I was not always wise. I was once rash, and reckless, as are many in their youth. But time can change us. I have gained an appreciation for all life. And try to understand the workings and the ways of the world. Life is a gift, it is a shame whenever it must end on behalf of another. Or meet their demise prematurely. But in death we find an appreciation for life that makes it more precious, if ever fleeting."
"Life.. is a precious gift.."

>>539199
>"Humans would meet with me all the time some hundred years ago. We would speak of philosophy, and of trade, and how things work. I was under the impression that things were going well for the humans. That they were on the right path to a prosperous future. How naive I was. The visits became more seldom. And just like that we faded from their world, forgotten about entirely."
"Why?"
>"Its hard to say. I visited their world. And I saw automotives. I saw technology. I heard music from boxes. People in fine linens going about their day. And buildings taller than their shores are deep. It seemed no mystery as to why we were left behind in their minds."
"We.. We need to remind them."
>"They are aware, we made our presence known once again. But they would not heed us as I mentioned."
>"Damn, we need to make these stuffed shirts see reason! I refuse to let this place get destroyed because some fatcats up there are getting too greedy for their own good."
Jailene speaks.
>"You think it will be that easy? It's not so much greed as much as progression. As things progress, the demand for technology and innovation rises. More resources are used. It becomes harder to oversee individual tasks. Harder to weed out a folly business practice, especially when a quicker and more toxic solution is cheaper. When competition drives the market, and money makes kings, the drive to stay ahead is worth more to some than the lives of a few fish in the ocean."
>Porter grabs Jailene by the scruff.
>"How can you just say that!?"
>"Whether or not it's pretty, it's the truth."
"Jailene is right.. When money can make kings, why wouldn't you want to get there by any means necessary."
>"Exactly, it's the system we have set in place that's driving this chain of events. My original theory of a second reckoning may not be far off."
>"T-then are you saying there's nothing that can stop it?"
>"Not unless there were some drastic shift in how things were done."
"A.. Drastic shift.."

>>539200
>Some time later you arrive back home.
>"Morgan, thank goodness you're alright. I had the city watch on patrol the whole night."
"It's.. Alright, I'm fine. I'm sorry to have worried you."
>"You should know better! What happened to you?"
"Well.."
--
>"Merfolk huh? I can't remember ever hearing about them. Why would the capital want to keep it a secret?"
"Its.. So they can keep polluting the ocean with their shoddy products, I'm sure of it."
>"Morgan, you shouldn't be so critical. Not everyone can afford to run a clean business. Sometimes to stay alive you have to take more drastic actions."
"How.. How can you say that?"
>"I've been a farming merchant since before you were born. The life we lead is exceptionally well off compared to most. Poor people can't afford to be picky. When it's between choosing the cheaper product, or starving, which would you choose?"
"W-well.."
>"Undercut the competition with a product you can sell at a lower price and you have a profitable business. It is the desire in most every merchants heart to ascend to the ruling order. Not only for themselves but for their children as well."
"But.. Why must it be this way? Must the world be so cruel?"
>"Survival is the same anywhere. In nature it is kill or be killed. In society, it is sell or be sold. Competition will always drive the market for as long as you and I shall live. But we can always choose to invest in more Eco-friendly businesses, even if it does cost a little more."
"Competition will always drive the market.."
>"This is the way it's been since the reckoning Morgan."
"So.. Things will continue down this path, unless we do something.."
>"Morgan, is everything alright?"
"I'm fine Dad.. I think I'll head to my room now."
>"Goodnight Morgan, pleasant dreams."
"Night Dad."
--

>It's the next day..
>You wake up..
>What is the plan for today?

>>539203
>Try to see how good relations with the Mermaids would be a good business.

>Mermaids don't need wetsuits and can stay underwater all they want. They can go deeper on the sea that humans can with tecnology. Trading with them would make products obtained from the sea cheaper.

Also

>Humans value gold and jewels, there are many treasures from sunken ships underwater. Hard and ridky to get for humans, but easy for Mermaids. Could it be that simple? Could the Mermaids just buy they way to peace?

>Maybe should talk about this with dad? He is the experienced merchant not you.

>>539422
This sounds good. Let's do this.

>>539422
>>539424
>You talk to Dad.
"Say Dad um.."
>"What is it Morgan?"
"I was thinking, what if the mermaids got involved in trade? They could find jewels and sunken treasure! Go places that divers couldn't normally get to."
>"Hmm.. An interesting thought. But would it really be that simple?"
"You said it yourself didn't you? Competition will always drive the market. I doubt theres anyone who could dive as well as a mermaid."
>"You have a point. But, how can you be sure the mermaids will be willing to participate?"
>You pause.
"Well.. I can talk to them. And, well theres no harm in trying."
>"If you say so.. Be safe down there Morgan. You nor I have the faintest idea of what may lurk in the depths."
"I will."
---

>Later that day, under the sea with Porter and Jailene.
>"Participate in human trade?"
"I think the humans will learn to trust you and get along better with your people if you do business with them."
>"We do have Mermaids capable of crafting, making jewelry, and even certain garments. As far as mining the ocean depleting it of treasures, that is where I have reservations."
"But.. When you consider the alternative, war, and the pollution of your ocean, doesn't it seem logical?"
>"You have a point. If war can be avoided, then we must take the necessary steps."
--

>After some running around with the Queen and her escorts in human form you're able to secure a meeting with the royals.
>However the army wanted nothing to do with any relations involving merfolk.
>You imagine they would have outright killed them just for stepping foot on land, were it not for the queens strange powers.
>You've seen already her immense magical prowess when it comes to simple things.
>You would shudder to think what it would feel like to be stung by her, or the extent of her arcane magic..
>You imagine she could command tidal waves that could topple buildings.
>She always seems to opt for the non-violent solutions though.
>Though you would never want to incur her wrath.
-----
>Later in the private estate of nobles.
>"I am Duke Meddo Therin, you can see I've assembled some noteworthy parties. Princess Resa, Baron Izaboro, and Baron Karrkauf."
>"A pleasure to meet all of you."
>You recognize Karrkauf as Porters father.
>Izaboro inquires,
>"Tell us sea-queen, why have you called us back?"
>"I want to avoid war, and to do so.."
>She has her escorts open a chest full of gold.
>The men all gasp.
>Karrkauf speaks,
>"Incredible! Are there really such riches under the sea?"
>"Yes, what you see here is from a human vessel which sank some 200 years ago."
>More gasps.

>>542100
>The princess walks over.
>"This is.. So amazing."
>"The sea is home to many wondrous bounties such as these."
>Izaboro laughs.
>"Hmph, all the more reason to take it from you barbarians."
>His thick stomach and golden teeth make him a gluttonous sight to behold.
>Meddo speaks,
>"He does pose a fair point."
>Karrkauf scoffs,
>"Does he? He is a shortsighted fool not to see that an all out war would be devastating to us humans as we are now. I know things of magic. And I can feel that this queen here has at least enough magical potential to fell the capital practically on her own."
>The other nobles gasp.
>"I.. I would not, I would wish to avoid war if-"
>"And what would happen if we polluted the ocean further, and murdered all the creatures in it? What then? Already our nets come up dry. And here we have a golden opportunity to establish clean and fair trade, and to avoid a war, and you let yourselves be blinded by greed?"
>The other nobles are rather shamefully looking down at their feet.
>Karrkauf walks over to you placing his hand on your shoulders.
>"I should thank you Morgan, I know it is you who has brought her, is that not correct Lady Cosmosis?"
>"That is true."
>"Your father spoke highly of you when we met. I can see now that you are every bit the young lady adventurer he described."
"T-thanks.."
>"I know that you are also friends with my daughter. Please keep her safe. She has a tendency to be a bit hot-headed as I was when I was young."
"I will."
>Meddo loudly clears his throat.
>"Ahem. I believe we should set up the proper paperwork. I can safely say if this goes through, you'll have no more issues with the merchants.
>"What about the pollution?"
>The nobles get together whispering for a few minutes amongst themselves.
>Karrkauf speaks.
>"We will put a ban on ocean pollution, and anything which involves toxifying the waters as well, dumping shall also be prohibited. Shall that suffice?"
>"I think so."
>"Lets get it in writing."
--

>And so the Peaceable Merfolk Trade act was written into law, that forbade pollution in Cnidarian waters.
>It also permitted trade and gave rights to the Merfolk as citizens which are not to be harmed.
--
>Its the next day, the town seems oddly quiet.
>Except for the faint sound of marching.
>What should I be doing?

>>542107
>Take a look, if you see a lot of the military troops marching then get your friends and dad out of town. If you are wrong is just a military parade, if you are right, the revolution has started early and you are persona non gratta for certain lady that's leading it. Disguise it as a camping training trip to get better at fighting monsters. If dad cannot go, warm him about the revolution and tell him he should get guards he can trust or make a temporary golem to defend himself. He made Milly didn't he? A rock/stone golem should not be that hard for him to make.
>If it's not the Military but an enemy force, go to help your friends, specially certain scientist that cannot fight.

>>542916
This works, also...
>Quicky get your armor and weapons on. Also remember to pack your money and everything you might need for a "camping trip". Don’t leave your magic books but leave the rest, you cannot take everything while running away.
>If you can't get out the city, try the sea. If that's bot possible, remember that churches are usually made of stone and some even have secret passages.
>If you are arrested, remind them it was you who helped to make the trade agreement with the Mermaids and that if you, your dad our your friends get hurt, the extremely powerful Queen that could destroy the ehole city with a single flip of her tail won't be happy.

>>542928
Equip the magic breath shells under our clothes, or in a non-suspect way.
If we get into troubles, jump/fall in a moat or a river. Fake drowning. Stay at the bottom a few hours, and only surface where no human could have swim apnoea.
<spoiler>A daring escape is the second reason I asked the shells to be kept secret, but I didn't expect this to come up.</spoiler>

We only told the Military we didn't want to get into their mess, not that we were fighting them. We even worked for th- oh wait, we totally didn't and befriended the enemy Merfolks instead. And the Nobility right after that.
We'll have to fight the Military then. But we're not officially enemies yet.
Send a postcard to our sister to say we're OK, prepare for camping trip, but mostly see what's going on, have information to plan how to reverse military coup.

>>542916
>>542928
>>543245
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOvSbpNyx14
>You decide to get equipped and then check out the town.
>There are soldiers marching toward the main fortress of the nobles in town.
>You check the house and pack up carrying only what you need.
>You radio Porter,
"Hey, Porter, are you there?"
>"Yeah, whats up?"
"I got bad news, we have soldiers on the move."
>"So what? Let me go back to bed."
"No, you don't understand, this could be the revolution, we need to leave town, and now!"
>"Oh.. Oh crap! What are we going to do? I think I can hear them."
"Stay calm and stay out of sight. We'll meet up at Jailenes place."
>"Why there?"
"Obviously to save Jailene and then we'll leave."
>Dad doesn't seem to be anywhere in sight..
>You try to avoid any sort of contact with soldiers but they seem to be everywhere.
>You can see some of them invading homes and dragging certain people out.
>They seem to be armed with crossbows, and the tips of the arrows seem to be glowing white.
>Is that the same stuff they used on the diving expeditions?
>If so, then it's even more important to find your friends and leave..

>You arrive at Jailenes place.
>Porter is already there.
>"I'm glad you're safe!"
>She hugs you.
>"There's soldiers every turn! I've seen them drag out nobles and other people!"
>Jailene sighs.
>"They're capturing persons of interest. Catching certain nobles off guard before they have a chance to resist."
"So.. They're against the nobles are they?"
>"I'll just be a minute. I need to gather supplies."
>She hurriedly packs her things and leaves.
>Porter speaks,
>"I couldn't find my Dad anywhere.."
"Mine either.."
>"D-do you think, they may have been captured?"
>Jailene comes out with her backpack.
>"Highly probable. Both of your Dads would be considered high priority targets."
>"B-but.. My Dad, he's a highly skilled swordsman, and archer. And he can use magic!"
"And.. My Dad can make constructs, and he's good with magic and swords as well."
>"Y-yeah, maybe they're ok.."
>"Weren't we just using advanced weapons which could fell anyone with one hit the other day?"
"Oh.. Oh no.. I just remembered, I think I saw crossbows with arrows that were tipped with that stuff."
>"Come on, we need to move. It isn't safe."
"Are.. You really coming with us?"
>"You think I'm going to keep being a researcher with the new regime underway? My sole purpose will be to make weapons for the new government. Tools of death, and I want no part in it."
>Porter pats her firmly on the shoulder.
>"Yeah! Cantolide can go to hell if she thinks any of us are going to take part in her new government."
----

>>544314
>You try to discreetly leave.
>You have no way of contacting your Dad, or Karrkauf, but you hope they were strong enough or smart enough to get away.
>"Damn, these guys are everywhere. Were there always this many soldiers?"
>"Cantolide was building her army this whole time. And the dissatisfaction with the current ruling system has led a lot of poor people over to the army by default."
"Are you saying that most of her troops were impoverished citizens?"
>"Yes. But there are perhaps a few nobles who sided with Cantolide, merely on the off chance that if she did win, that they could remain in power."
>"Damn that crafty bitch."
>There are guards everywhere.
>And they're starting to do checks.
>"Hey, you three, over there. Identify yourselves!"
"We're um-"
>"Hey, isn't that the daughter of that rich merchant?"
>"Get em!"
>They rush toward you.
>"Let's bolt!"
--
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHgskf0UBjc
>You rush through town.
>3 of them are chasing you.
>"Stop or we'll shoot!"
>You continue to run.
>They fire their crossbows, luckily the only one that hit strikes the thick of your armor.
>"Oh god, they're gaining on us!"
>"We never stood a chance. Even if we fought, it's a one hit kill against their superior weapons. I can't imagine the capital fairs much better."
>"Less talky, more running!"
"What are we gonna do?"
>"If nothing else, I could take out at least one before I go down!"
>"If it comes to that, we're likely to be killed or captured."
>One of your pursuers stops and yells out to more guards.
>"Hey, we got some persons of interest on the run!"
>Suddenly 4 more come barreling after you.
>"This isn't looking good!"
>"Any ideas Morgan?"
>You suddenly see the docks in the distance.
"The water! Head for the docks!"
>"Oh yeah, that's right, good thinking Morg!"
>"You won't get away!"
>They fire more bolts at you.
>You feel several pelt your armor.
>The others narrowly miss Porter and Jailene.
>You run down the stone steps toward the docks.
>"They must be headed for the boats!"
>You rush to the end of the docks.
>"Ha! End of the line!"
>The three of you dive off.
>Crossbow bolts are fired into the water, but none are able to hit you.
>You're able to continue swimming for some time until you're a good long distance away from the Cnidarian coast.
>"Well, that was certainly close."
>"What's the plan now Morg?"
"The roads will probably be closed off.. But there might be a way back home through the Coelentera mountains."
>"The supposedly impassable peaks?"
"Just past those peaks is a forest, and through there is my home."
>"So we're going home huh?"
>"What exactly would be the point of that? Aside from escaping the fires of war?"

>>544316
"Well, going home would mean we could recruit Milly. Milly is made of hay, so their crossbow bolts won't do a thing to her. And she's a powerful magic user too."
>"Woah, your sister is made of hay? You never mentioned that before!"
"You never asked."
>"Pfft duh! Most sisters aren't made out of hay."
>"So what is she?"
"She's my sister."
>"I mean what type of being is she?"
"She's a scarecrow."
>"Oh.. Wait what?"
"Nevermind, you'll see when we get there."
>"I suppose at the very least, we might be able to spread word to the south about the war. And perhaps recruit some more people to fight against them. Although in the end, I surmise it won't do much more than stall the enemy. If Cantolide succeeds in conquering the Capital, she will have full control of Cnidaria and all it's might."
"W-wait so.. If she conquers this city.."
>"We will never possess the capability to defeat her. And we'll be unlikely to turn the tides of war without a ton of bloodshed and some kind of technological advantage."
"W-we could maybe ask Nirvanica to help?
>"Yeah, and get the entire city destroyed as well? You'll kill thousands of innocents with her magic, we want to retake the city, not level it. And on that note, would she even be willing to involve herself in a human affair?"
"Well.. I guess that just leaves one option."

File: HD-Snowy-Mountains-Picture.jpg (666KB, 1920x1080px) Image search: [Google]

666KB, 1920x1080px

>>544317
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGOe4GwX9oM
Inventory
-----------
Jailene
--
First Aid Kit
Rope
Cheap Ramenx5
Flashlight
Energy Reader
Map
Speargun
Compass
Seashell Necklace
-----
Porter
--------
Katana
Leftover Beef Stew
Cooking pot
Seashell Necklace
--
Morgan
----
Candy Barx5
Flashlight
Armor
Knives
Seashell Necklace


>The cold wind presses against you.
>"Anyone else thinking this was a terrible idea?"
>"The map says there should be a cave somewhere nearby."
>"Brr.. I hate the cold.. Why couldn't I have studied fire magic?"
"I-it's ok Porter.. I uh.. We'll make it through!"
>"That dumb bitch Cantolide is the reason we're climbing this damn mountain in the first place."
"Hey um.. Speaking of that.. Your father was the leader of the Wyverns of Pestilence right?"
>"Oh good. You're going to rub that in too?"
"N-no! Listen, it might actually be a good thing.. What if we can get them to listen to us? Maybe they can fight against the Cnidarians."
>Porter is grimacing.
"I.. I'm sorry if it's a sensitive issue.."
>"What makes you think they'll listen to me?"
"Well.. You're like, the daughter of their leader?"
>"Even if we could rally everyone together against the Cnidarians, there's no way we can stand up to those weapons.."
>The snow whips by and you feel like you're freezing.
"Brr.. Well, I.. We can't give up."
>"Porter is right Morgan.. A bunch of thugs against an army? One with better weapons and tech than anything in the south? It's serviceable at best, but it's nowhere near on par with a real army."
>You frown continuing to brave the front of these winds.
>Your exposed legs through the plate.
>The weight of this armor.
>Right now the people of Cnidaria are at the mercy of Cantolide.
>You barely made it out in one piece, and with your friends no less..
>You're happy, but at the same time..
>You wonder if maybe you could have talked things through with Cantolide.
>Perhaps if you'd spent more time with her..
>What was she saying?
>Something about a lack of purpose?
>You can't imagine what that could be like.
>No goals, no ambitions..
>A toy for the nobles to gawk at..
>She seemed bitter about her lot in life..
>It still baffles you how someone who had everything could be so miserable.
>Even as one of the children of privilege, you're grateful for everything you have.
>What could be so lacking, so empty in her life to have caused this?
>Is it like these barren snowy plains?
>A cold empty place?
>Pretty to look at, but devoid of life?
>Too much speculation.. This cold is driving you mad.
"How much further to the cave?"
>"At least another 3 miles!"
>You're starting to feel numb in places.
>But you must reach the south.
>You must reach it before Cantolide can get her hands on it too.
>Is this really what I should be doing?

>>544320
How come the other two don't have their leather armor on?

>>544329
Good point, it should be on the list. Morgan would never let them leave without armor.

>Just... go home back to the Farm. You will be safe there for a while. The revolution won't be over fast and it will take that bitch weeks to take control. You live too far away for her to get you any time soon.

>>544331
This works.

File: highres_299671792.jpg (2MB, 3264x2448px) Image search: [Google]

2MB, 3264x2448px

>>544329
>>544330
>>544331
>>544334
*Porter and Jailene both have their leather armor.


>It's time to..
>Just... go home back to the Farm. You will be safe there for a while. The revolution won't be over fast and it will take that bitch weeks to take control. You live too far away for her to get you any time soon.
>You eventually reach the cave.
>You're cold and numb.
>It's too cold in here..
>You want to build a fire, but how can it be done?
>What rations should we feed ourselves for dinner?

>"That's pure essence of Chironex fleckeri, the most venomous animal on the face of the planet. One sting will kill you in a minute to a minute and a half."
Land animal or sea one? Could we possibly find an antivenom?
And are we sure Nirvanica can only flatten entire cities, or could she just stab Cantolide or something? Could she take a water-slime form that's resistant to blades?

>>544341
>>544342
>You could try to hit two rocks together to make sparks for fire. Too bad you didn't pack matches or a lighter. You usually don't, to not scare your sister. You know how to do this but finding the right rocks will take some time with all the snow. Thankfully is not the first time you have to find rocks in the snow... wow your life sure is wild isn't it?

>Heat up the Leftover Beef Stew and if you three are still hungry melt some ice to make some cheap Ramen. Maybe mix one cheap ramen bowl mixed with the leftover beef stew? That sounds tasty, let's do. Save the candy for the road. No, too cold, half melt three bar near the fire and chew them slowly, one for each one. They aren't used to rough it like you are. Granted those times you had dad and your sister, but you can do this.

>Cantolide... just wants love. You can see it, parents always absent, raised by servants, all she ever got was praise when she acted like a proper lady, she got more hugs and kisses and affection from servants than her own parents. Then since she cared more about the servants than her parents, she found out how they lived.

>"Why does such a nice people have to be threated so bad?" She started to ask herself. And from there it ended with her making a revolution after she failed to change things from inside the system. Then comes a mere farm girl, she denies her the money she desperate needs and then goes and makes peace with the Mermaids! Who does she think she is?

>The revolution... got launched too early because she got angry with what you did. Cantolide doesn't have as many troops and weapons as she would have got with Dad's money. It won't be an easy victory. She can take the Capital but not every noble lives there.

>Just like you feared it will be war. Just because a little girl grew to hate her parents and then to hate nobility. Because... because she hates her life... she thinks no one loves her, she thinks that if she becomes Queen or Empress people will love her.

>Sometimes, you hate the voices in your head, when they tell you things you don't want to know. Because you know how this story ends, win or lose, Cantolide doesn't get what she really wants, someone that truly loves her.

>>544383
And you made me pity the enemy, damn you. But yeah this works.

>>544320
>>"Porter is right Morgan.. A bunch of thugs against an army? One with better weapons and tech than anything in the south? It's serviceable at best, but it's nowhere near on par with a real army."
They will be busy enough trying to keep control over then north to commit to taking the south. Arranging some tentative borders would better to be sooner than later. I still think it is worth seeing what the mayor of Morgan's town and Porter's bros think about this opportunity to establish a separate state. Or we should at least warn them.

>>544341
>Cheap Ramenx5
We have ramen and snow and ... wood? I dunno, if we don't have a couple of sticks to rub together or some flint or fire magic we will have to make do with cold stew and cuddling. Oh and try cover the mouth of the cave if it isn't too big, to stop the wind coming in.

PS: OP could you please make write-in prompts more explicit so we don't think they are just rhetorical questions updates? Either by adding a separate write-in line or by not green texting the rest of the post.

>>544393
We also have Leftover Beef Stew and five candy bars. I sugested mixing a biwl of ramen with the leftover stw so is enough for three people.

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>>544342
>>544383
>>544393
>>544435
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtmB30Prqvs
>You attempt banging rocks together to try and make fire.
>It makes loud noises which echo through the cave.
>SMACK.
>SMACK SMACK.
>SMACK SMACK SMACK SMACK.
>"Morgan enough! I can't stand that noise!"
"I'm trying to make fire!"
>Jailene speaks,
>"Stop acting like a primitive. Put those rocks to good use and barricade the cave entrance."
>"What about me?"
>"Help me gather wood. We need to keep it dry in order to start a fire.
>"I don't know how to make a fire from scratch."
>Jailene sighs.
>"Its a good thing I read a book about it and I know how..
--
>Jailene tears a strip of cloth from a shirt and finding a bent stick she ties that together making a bow.
>She grabs a block of wood and carves a small hole with your knife.
>She uses a sturdy stick as the rod.
>She takes another stick carving it flat with a small hole for the rod.
>She places some strips of cloth underneath having dry tinder nearby for the coal.
>She spins the rod with the bow within a few minutes it smokes and she nurses the coal in tinder.
>She breathes into it, smoke billows and a little fire is born.
>"Wow that's amazing Jailene!"
>Porter hugs Jailene.
>You moved big rocks in front of the cave with your magic.
>It's starting to warm up in here.
>But.. It's still pretty cold.
>You all shiver as you sit around the little fire.
>"There's not a lot of wood, so we need to make it last. I suggest we camp here for tonight. It's going to be a long journey tomorrow."
>"Fine by me.. Brr.. It's so cold."
>Jailene wraps herself around Porter.
>"W-what are you doing?"
>"Helping you stay warm."
>"Your hands are so cold!"
>You scoot closer to Porter pressing against her.
"You're.. So warm Porter."
>"You're both kinda warm."
>You decide to make Leftover beef stew mixed with some cheap ramen in order to have enough for everyone.
>Huddled close to one another you take turns eating from the pot without silverware.
>"I-it's not terrible."
>"Better than just ramen on it's own. Where did you get this stew Porter?"
>Porter has a sad look on her face,
>"My Dad made it, just before he left this morning. Dad always makes the best food. He's.."
>She sniffles.
>"Such a good cook."
>Tears are dripping from her eyes.
>You hold her tightly.
"It'll be alright. I'm sure your father is fine.."
>"Dad always did his best to take care of me.. Maybe I was just too blind to see it."
"I'm.. Sure he loves you very much."
>Porter sobs.
>You can see Jailene rubbing her back now with a concerned look on her face.

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>>547291
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvRXQabG-W0
>Cantolide... just wants love. You can see it, parents always absent, raised by servants, all she ever got was praise when she acted like a proper lady, she got more hugs and kisses and affection from servants than her own parents. Then since she cared more about the servants than her parents, she found out how they lived.
>Why do such nice people have to be treated so bad? And from there it ended with her making a revolution after she failed to change things from inside the system. Then comes a mere farm girl, she denies her the money she desperate needs and then goes and makes peace with the Mermaids! Who does she think she is?
>The revolution... got launched too early because she got angry with what you did. Cantolide doesn't have as many troops and weapons as she would have got with Dad's money. It won't be an easy victory. She can take the Capital but not every noble lives there.
>Just like you feared it will be war. Just because a little girl grew to hate her parents and then to hate nobility. Because... because she hates her life... she thinks no one loves her, she thinks that if she becomes Queen or Empress people will love her.
>Sometimes, you hate the voices in your head, when they tell you things you don't want to know. Because you know how this story ends, win or lose, Cantolide doesn't get what she really wants, someone that truly loves her.
>"Hey Morg, you ok? You seem kinda down over there."
"I.. I was just.. It's nothing."
>"Come on, you can tell me. We're friends right?"
"Well.. It's just.. Maybe Cantolide has a reason for doing what she's doing. Maybe she's lonely, maybe she's confused.. Shes fighting back against this system.. And it's kept her isolated this whole time."
>"Do you think she resents being a noble?"
"It seems like she hated it."
>Porter is quiet for a moment, watching the flames dance in front of her.
>"So.. She hated being a noble so much, that she wanted to bring the whole thing down? But what's the difference if she's just going to become queen anyway?"
"I.. I don't know.. And, maybe she doesn't know either. She talked about how she felt like she was 'drifting'. Like her life had no direction other than to be something pretty for others to look at."
>"Well, I know I wouldn't be very happy if I was just some dress up doll for rich weirdos."
"Exactly. Maybe she's just.. Misunderstood."
>"Even still. I can't forgive what she's doing. She's going to destroy our way of life just because life didn't turn out her way."
"Is.. It really so bad? I mean.. The whole reason your Dad was able to become a noble was because of that system."
>"Thats true.. But there are plenty of other people.. Who are poor, starving, that just want to dream of a better life."

>>547293
"But, what if she fixes the financial crisis? Redistributes the wealth?"
>Jailene speaks,
>"It won't last. Sure she could issue a stimulus package, but in the end, it will likely not reset the balance much. Many of the wealthy will remain wealthy, and the poor will only receive a temporary reprieve."
"Then.. What will change?"
>"Likely nothing. In fact, the poor are going to be in a heap of trouble if Cantolide loses, and power is reset. They'll be blamed for the uprising, and likely be ridiculed and persecuted even worse than before."
"But.. What about slowing the rate of pollution? Will her regime slow down the reckoning?"
>"If she conquers the capital, and then genocides the mermaids, it will likely speed things up. Nirvanica mentioned pollution wasn't the only factor in triggering it."
>"This whole thing is a mess.."
"I never should have gotten involved. I need to.. Just return home. A farmgirl like me, doesn't belong in warring affairs."
>Porter replies,
>"I don't think any of us belong up there anymore."
>"We should just be grateful we're not dead or rotting in some dungeon right now."
>With some melancholy thoughts and the warmth of each others embrace you drift to sleep.

-------------

>It's the next day.
>"Well, the map has two ways we can go, the quick and more dangerous way, it'll probably only take a day and a half to get there.. Or we can take the safer router which will take about 4 days."
>"What's dangerous about it?"
>"The pass is steep, and there are known to be frostwyrm's and Yeti's down that route."
"And.. Down the other route?"
>"Making our way to a small pass, we should come to a forest Tundra. There should be some empty houses, and an alpine lodge. But it's all been abandoned because it's too cold and inhospitable to live up here anymore."
>"Oh really, how long has it been abandoned? I've never heard of it."
>"About 60 years now. Cnidarian records show it used it be a resort. And I've seen people come back from research missions there. It becomes impossible for merchants because the roads are buried under snow, and horses cannot travel in the snowy landscape."
>"So it died then."
>"It could be another side effect of the reckoning. If only there was a way to overturn it's effects. To reset things back to the way they were. It might have been a nice winter getaway."

What route should I take?
What pace should we travel at?
What should I talk about with Porter and Jailene?

>>547297
>What route should I take?
We have zero food and are better at fighting than tundra survivalism, lets take the quick and dangerous path.

>What pace should we travel at?
M-Medium. If we hurry we might be to worn out to fight or run from random encounters but there is no reason to dawdle in a frozen wasteland, you are not going to get any less cold and miserable.

>What should I talk about with Porter and Jailene?
Probably not politics. Stories from home maybe. I don't think we have heard much about Jailene's homelife. Maybe tell them about our farm and whatnot, and how when we get down to there Millie is going to build us a hot bath.

And shit am I glad we bought the NEET along. She was the only one who thought to bring rope and the only one who new how to light a fire.

Finally returning to the farm, road wear and travel stained.
"Morgan!"
"Millie!"
Porter: "Wow, she really is made out of hay. That's so weird."
"Why are you coming out of the forest, how long have you been back, where's dad?"
"A civil war broke out in the capital, we had to run away."
"And dad?"
"I don't know, the leader of the rebellion was angry at me so I had to leave. We can over the mountains."
"You just left dad there?"
"..."
"..."
"Well just have to trust that he can take care of himself. Right?"
"S-Sure Morgan."

>>547304
This works.

>>547304
Good.

>>547304
Supporting.

Looks like Gritsaw couldn't post today -_-

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>>550019
Sorry I've been busy. I'll probably get around to making a new thread with some delicious green when I wake up.

>>555597
Okay.