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>>717182

Welcome to Gorgon Child Quest! Where-in you take up the role of a magical talking artifact being wielded by a young gorgon girl named Cici. Living out of the steadily improving remains of a once great dungeon, the game will focus on exploration, character interaction, and learning as the voices of the players within the amulet help guide her along. I may also include a magic system down the line depending on how things go, but we'll see what the future holds.

For news about quest updates, my twitter can be found here:
https://twitter.com/bananon_QM

And the archive can presently be found here:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=gorgon+child

Apologies for being late, but work was somewhat relentless today.

>>717196
Oh, since your grandfather is a wizard, you could ask him for some magic lessons, Cici.
Like that fireball spell from you picture book.
Of course he'll tell you that you're too young for fireballs, but it won't hurt to ask.

Realistically, something practical like a light spell or something to warm water would be a good starter.

>>717230
This. Get the picture book to illustrate the fireball.

>>717196
Poke the sack!

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>>717182
>>717230
>>717305

[“We can always try…”]

And so, as quietly as possible, Cici sweeps herself out of her seat and quietly bounces toward the bookshelf where she’d last left her reading aid, taking it in hand before walking back to the well-worn gentleman.

“Uncle Wizard?” Cici begins nervously, holding the book in one hand.

“Yes, dear?” Brad seems to remember himself as he slumps forward, resting his hands on his knees with a groan as he eyes the bright eyed girl.

“Could you teach me how to throw fire?” she asks, slowly thumbing through the pages until she reaches the right one. “Like in the book?”

“F is for Fireball…” the old man murmurs to himself, a curious twinkle in his eye as he regards the cartoonish scribbles dancing on the page in front of him. “To think after all these years…”

With a casual chuckle, he then gently takes the book from Cici’s hands, twisting it back and forth in his grasp, inspecting it before placing a single thin finger on the cover, and tipping it forward so Cici can see. There, below the title is the author’s name:

< “Heinrich Bradenburry Funderscorm von Ostigar”>

“Your father asked me to make this book for him, you know,” he says with a smile. “He simply wouldn’t take no for an answer. So many hours and wasted pots of ink…” He chuckles. “I’m glad it finally found its way into the hands it was intended for.”

“Wow!“ Cici gasps. “That’s amazing! How’d you make the pictures move?”

“I could show you, if you like,” he offers, and granted the small child’s expression, he needn’t wait for an affirmation.

He simply reaches into his wide sleeves, withdraws a stick of chalk and with a casual flick sends it down to the floor. Instead of shattering, however, it seemingly catches itself on its end and holds there, beginning to bounce and swerve along the stone floor as if possessed of its own volition. Circles, lines, and letters that Cici’s never seen before come out in waves, the chalk breaking and splintering to create new chalk twisting in different directions until finally they move into the center of the largest circle, left conspicuously empty and begin drawing a scene.

In a flash it vanishes, only to be replaced by another, and then another, then another. And finally, at that point, when the chalk is completely spent, the old man simply taps his staff down and the circle flares to life, chalk figures moving in a little chalk world in stride, playing out motions that Cici had seen before, only done quickly.

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>>717418

Well, it's my birthday today, and this hasn't quite gone as I expected. I think that I'll just stop here, maybe try some other day. My apologies everyone.

>>717648
Happy birthday, I'll dedicate a pancake to you.

>>717648
Ok, happy birthday friend

>>717648
Happy birthday, bananon.

>>717660
>>717667
>>717689

You guys do realize that if you don't vote, this quest is as good as dead, right?

>>717776
I thought that was a continuation post.

>>717785

Seems not. Maybe we should ask next time?

>>717785
Yeah, I thought so too.

>>717648
Hey bananon, why don't you put in a >what do? instead of just leaving things looking like there's going to be another post?

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>>717776
>>717785
>>717868
>>718070

In general, I will always include -cont or [?/X] in the bottom of posts with a continuation. Otherwise, I consider it at a point where you as the players could reasonably offer input to shape the scene.

If it's necessary though, or if it helps people I can include a >[Say Things] or something like that to make it 100% clear.

However, in the present circumstances with no feedback for an hour, I had just assumed that this evening was bad for getting traffic to the thread and decided it was best I leave.

Feel free to comment back, and have a scary rabbit for your troubles.

>>718213
No, the lack of feedback was decidedly because it was unclear if this was a point to provide new options or not. Especially since you just left it at describing the chalk figures moving but not at all what scene they were describing.

This is something you really need to improve on, because that's what usually keeps people from responding and causing things to drag on.

>>718272

Anon, I'm trying my best. I really am. However, I also don't want to be the sole person bearing the burden here. I need you guys to communicate if you are confused.

>>718344
So a >Free Choice is too much of a burden for you to put at the end of your posts?

>>718344
To be fair the broad was dead at that point (and I was hung over).

>>718423

Anon, I've already said I will do that. I'm not averse to helping you guys. What I'm saying is please don't be irritable with me, because I am trying. And if sometimes posts don't have perfect decision instances at the end, it is because I am writing these posts on a tight time budget, usually with very little sleep and a number of other things I have to manage simultaneously in the background. In such cases, I try to give you the best place I can see for you to offer your input to shape the scene.

>>718467

Like, in this case, Cici could have asked about the magic that made the images happen. She could have examined the magical writing herself. She could have pressed Uncle Wizard to teach her more about fire. Hell, she might have been more interested in just learning how to draw.

It's not perfect, I know, but I thought there was enough there to where you guys could offer something.

>>718480
We aren't saying we couldn't think of something to do we are saying that we literally couldn't tell this was a part where we were meant to offer input.

>>718563

In the future, I will clarify. However, where does that leave us on this thread? I could try to scrape together a few hours to update during the week at pretty much random intervals, Or we can let this thread die, and we can try again some other time.

>>717418
>Ask about the possibility magical cooking.

>>718580
Honestly it's more practical to try to get something done with this thread, because it's going to last an entire week anyway.

>>717418
Ask Brad if he can teach you some magic.

>>718622
>>718613

I'll try to update when I have time then. Just periodically check back in when you have the time. For the rest of tonight, I kind of just want to relax and let go of today. Not to mention, I have other, IRL stuff to attend to.

ask wizard grandpa to teach you?

>>719323
OH! also ask him if there is something as precognition or a way to observe people from far away using magic, cause you may have dream of your skeletal uncle and his adventure in uncanny details.

>>719323
I thought we agreed he was Uncle Wizard?

>>719535
Uncle doesn't make much sense if Cici's dad was like a son to Brad.
If he was like a brother, Uncle would fit better.

>>720633
Where do actual interpersonal relationships come into it? I'm voting Uncle Wizard just because I like the sound of it more.

>>721705
I prefer Grandpa Wizard. It sounds better.

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>>721705
I like Grandpa or Grandfather.

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>>717418
>>717648
>>718613
>>719323
>>719362

Anons, I promise that I haven't forgotten about you. Just, as I mentioned, my weeks are hellishly busy outside of the one day I can afford to clear the way for it. This week, I've had interviews, tests, doctor's appointments, and I just haven't been able to dedicate the time to writing. I'm gonna give this one more day to see if I can manage to get back to it tomorrow.

If not, I'll announce, and we'll pick up Monday with a fresh thread. Sorry for the inconvenience. But here, something for your troubles.

A sneak peak of things to come from an artist named Pudd, based on you guys' suggestions.

>>730947
Hope to see you later today, friend.

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>>718622
>>719323

“I still don’t understand,” Cici says, looking at the complex series of loops and swirls drawn on her living room floor. “Is that how you do magic? Can you teach me?”

“Well now…” the old wizard says carefully, stroking his beard as he looks down at the young girl. “I’m afraid the answer to that may depend on a great many things.”

At that point, Mama slithers by with kettle in one hand, but the wizard stops her with a gentle touch.

“Come now, dear, just the leaves and the water. You needn’t trouble yourself with the rest.”

And so, a few moments later, with cup in hand and kettle to the side, Brad pours himself a steep glass of water, throws in a pinch of dried tea leaves and with a snap of his fingers sends out a flare of magical energy. A gentle trail of mist soon follows in its wake, carrying with it the fragrant scent of a perfectly steeped cup of tea, a trick he repeats two more times before handing off the additional servings to his hostess and her daughter.

Cici takes a moment to stare at her own reflection in the rose colored water before taking her first careful sip, her nose scrunching up instantly as the bitter taste hits her tongue and contrasts sharply with the sweet perfume.

“Bleh.” The reaction is involuntary as Cici sticks out her tongue, eliciting a laugh from the older gentlemen.

“I assure you, my dear, the flavor grows on you with time. Perhaps in the meantime, though, some cream or sugar would help it along.” And like that, Mama is off again. “But to answer your question about learning magic, Cici, I fear that it is not something that everyone can learn. You see, magic is everywhere, in the air, earth, water, and trees. Yet, the vast majority of people spend their lives completely unaware of its existence until it is shaped into a spell or an item.

“It’s a rare gift to be aware of it otherwise, and one that can wait a lifetime revealing itself. Even then, it can take years of practice to master the very basics. You need to know the right ingredients.”

“Like baking?” Cici questions.

“Why yes, I suppose you could think of it like that,” he admits. “There are formulas and recipes, ingredients and measurements. Though I’d say one may be a good deal more complicated than the other.”

“So, can you teach me?” Cici pleads, giving her best neonate eyes.

“I’m supposing you haven’t accidentally set fire to anything with your mind, or turned your neighbors into frogs, have you?” the old man asks, Cici shaking her head.

“But the voices say I have special dreams!” she insists. “About Uncle Lee an’ dragons an’….”

“I beg your pardon… The voices?”

> Write-in

>>733154
Oh hey, the quest lives. I gotta go to work, but I'll get caught up when I get back.

>It'll probably be fine to tell him? But, you should still check with your mom first.

>>733154
You may as well hold us up to Brad, Cici.
It should be fine.
And if not, we can blast his singleton mind with the full force and fury of a planetary datalink network.

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>>733387
>>733351

[“I don’t wanna blast Grampa, but I guess we should tell him.”]

“Um, well…” Cici sets down her cup and holds up her bracelet wrist to the old man. “This is where the voices live. They tell me all sorts of stuff and help me sometimes.”

“And that’s all?” Brad seems worried. “They don’t ask you to do anything, to help them do anything, do they?”

“Uh-uh,” Cici confirms with a shake of their head. “At least not all of them.”

“Hmmm, yes, well-“ At that moment, a pair of fuzzy ears pop out of the man’s traveling bag, followed quickly by an indecipherable blob of feathers and fur that then stretches itself out with something between a purr and a hoot.

“What’s that?” Cici says, looking at the new arrival as it looks at her with huge, blinking eyes.

“This is Archer, dear,” Brad explains. “She’s what you would call a griffin, and she’s been my traveling companion for several years now.”

“Can I pet her?” Cici begs, seeing the plush white fur fluff up and brown feathers ruffle as the avian feline begins licking at its paws.

“Well, of course,” he says. “She’s incredibly friendly. However, if you’d be so kind as to take her into the other room for a moment, I believe your mother and I may need to have a word in private.”

The frown from earlier still creases his brow.

> Write-in

>>733387

I know what you had in mind, anon, but it seems Brad may be trying to distract Cici.

>>733479
Ugh, warning the mother about the dangers of Voices from Beyond and all that rubbish.

Fine, let's go to the other room with Archer, Cici. Maybe Okku and Din-Din are around.

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>>733479
>>733580

“I’ll go outside,” Cici explains, a simple pat to her leg enough to have Archer at her side. “Maybe Uncle Yesh will be back soon.”

“Have fun,” the old man waves. “Just don’t wander too far.”

And with that, Cici is off, a soft set of paws clacking behind her as she makes her way back out into the warm sunshine. Curiously, that set is then followed by another, slower one as Din-Din apparently wanders out of his hutch and begins trying to get a look at the new visitors.

“It’s okay,” Cici assures him, gently picking the rabbit up and cradling it in her arms as she steps outside. “These are Mama and Papa’s friends.”

Whether that concept transitions to the rabbit or not is unknown as he simply begins nuzzling at Cici’s neck with those ticklish whiskers of his. It draws a giggle from the small girl as she makes her way to one of the logs laid down next to the fire pit and takes a seat, the owl-cat looking curiously at her and hooting curiously as it hops up to sit next to her.

“So, your name’s Archer, huh?” Cici questions, supporting Din-Din with one hand as she reaches over to begin petting the new arrival, the feeling of stiff feathers and silken fur beneath her fingertips an odd sensation, though not an unpleasant one as the appreciative pseudo-feline leans into her hand and begins purring contentedly. “I bet you’ve been lots of interesting places.”

Again, answers from the animals remain in short supply, but the cat definitely appreciates her ministrations as she leans in against Cici’s thigh, her tail swishing gently as she tucks herself beneath Cici’s arm and begins massaging her side with her face. Din-Din meanwhile stays mostly still, but no less appreciative, the lazy rabbit just nuzzling contentedly against her chest as her other hand runs gentle lines down his back.

[“Hmm… This is nice.”] Cici thinks to herself as the minutes tick by, just relaxing in the warmth of the rising noon with the two animals keeping her company, not a care in the world.

--

“Do you know any tricks?” Cici finally thinks to ask, looking down at the puddle the cat-bird had dissolved into beneath her touch, and immediately its ears perk up. “Do you wanna show me?”

Like a spring, the cat bounces back upright, ears twitching as its tail swishes eagerly side to side.

> Write-in

>>733799
Maybe Archer can play tag? Roll over? Catch a stick while in the air?
Or more magical things like flying or breathing fire?
Let's ask it to do some stuff.

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>>733799

Din-Din, for his part, is having none of it, simply squishing down further on the log and letting out a gentle sigh as Cici tries to think of what kind of tricks a magical cat-bird might know.

“Can you breathe fire?” Cici asks hopefully, looking down at the tiny griffin, but the tilt of its skeptical head says all. “Okay, well…” She bends down and picks up a stick instead. “Can you fetch?”

This time, the reaction is far more favorable, its paws gently fluttering on the log, eyes zeroing in on the stick as Cici takes the hint and prepares to throw.

“Alright, fetch!”

The stick leaves her hand as fast as she can throw it, streaking through the air at a fairly good clip. However, Archer is that much faster, a rush of wind exploding from the griffin’s tiny wings as it moves after its target in a blur, snatching the stick up effortlessly in its beak before casually flying back around and dropping it expectantly at Cici’s feet.

Another throw goes out shortly after, then another and another, each and every one caught by the swooping and diving bird before it can hit the ground. It’s a mesmerizing, delightful display that the young girl can hardly get enough of, seeing the hardworking animal snatch up nearly impossible throws, twisting and twirling through the air with grace and sometimes pulling up only inches from the earth. Still, even magical beasts get tired, and it isn’t long before Cici sees the tell-tale signs of heavy breathing as the animal puffs out its chest and waits on the next command.

“No more throwing for a little while,” Cici tuts gently. “I think you might need to lay down for a minute.” Instantly, the griffin is down on its belly, looking expectantly back up with its tale twitching.

“Aww, you’re such a good girl!” Cici praises, rubbing behind Archer’s ears affectionately. “And so smart, too! Isn’t that right?”

The chimera chirps happily at the praise, eyes squeezing closed contentedly as she waits for more. However, Cici finds herself distracted.

“What’s the matter, Din-Din?” she asks, the bunny now down on the ground, front paws balanced on her leg as it looks up at her expectantly.

> Write-in

>>734139
"...Does Din-Din want to try as well?"

>>734139
Din-Din apparently wants more attention, but is it a good idea to run around with that injured leg?
Maybe the rabbit should go for easier tricks like handshake and standing.

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>>734139
>>734189
>>734203

“It’s okay, boy,” Cici says, running a hand over the rabbit’s head. “I know you’re sick. You don’t have to do anything.”

But, it seems that this comes down to more than a matter of head pats, as the rabbit gently pulls away, plopping itself down next to the griffin.

“Okay then.” Cici tries to remember what tricks Din-Din actually knows. “Can you give me a paw?”

Immediately, Archer’s paw is out, gently waiting to be held, but Din-Din isn’t far behind as he hesitantly plops a paw down in Cici’s waiting hand.

“Good boy! Good girl! Now lay down!” Again, the rabbit lags behind as both collapse to their bellies. “Now sit. Beg. And roll over!”

The poor hare was actually doing rather well until the last part. However, switching from his wobbly pose on two legs and trying to flip over before laying down seems to spell the end for him, the tubby bunny falling over backwards instead of executing any sort of roll then helplessly flailing his legs in the air as he tries to get back upright. What’s worse, Archer seems to notice this after her own respective roll, a hoot-like chortle building in the back of her throat at the other animal’s expense.

“Aww, it’s okay,” Cici comforts, bringing the struggling bun back upright and giving him a kiss on the head. “You did your best.”

It’s at that point that Cici notices Uncle Yesh out of the corner of her eye, he and Okku making their way back and fairing none the better with a host of purplish stings already welling up.

“Oh no! What happened?” Cici questions, eyes wide with concern.

“Nothing that time won’t mend,” Yesh assures her. “Though I may require your mother’s assistance. Where is she… and what is that?”

Cici gives a blank stare before following his finger to Din-Din and the struggling Archer now pinned beneath him, the griffin still chuckling in its peculiar manner even as the hare attempts to squash him beneath his weight.

> Write-in

>>734405
"Tell him about mister Wizard."

>>734405
May as well tell Uncle Yesh about Grandfather and Archer.

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>>734405
>>734472
>>734549

“That’s Archer,” Cici explains, deciding to let the animals sort this out themselves. “He’s Grampa Brad’s traveling friend.”

“And who is Grampa Brad?”

“He’s Mama and Papa’s friend from back in the city. He came to visit.”

“Interesting…”

“Mhm, and he’s a wizard.”

“Well, I wouldn’t want to interrupt their discussion,” he says with a sigh, taking a seat on another log. “I suppose we’ll just wait for them to finish then.”

With that settled, Yesh fishes around in his robes for a flask of sorts, pouring the contents out onto his hand before dabbing at his numerous bee stings, Okku getting the occasional dollop as well. Meanwhile, Archer and Din-Din continue their play, rolling over one another continuously in an attempt to determine who will come out on top. So passes an indistinct period of time before a pair of figures reappear in the doorway to the tower.

“Greetings,” Yesh offers with a wave.

“Likewise,” Brad returns. “As I understand it, I have you to thank for saving Cassandra’s life and looking after my god child. For both of those things, you have my thanks.”

“My pleasure.”

“Right, well, Cici,” the old man’s eyes turn to the child. “Might I have a word with you?”

“Sure Grampa Brad. What’s wrong?”

“First Uncle, and now Grandfather,” the old wizard chuckles. “Still, I suppose you are far closer to my grand-daughter’s age than my daughter’s. However, before we get side tracked there, I’d like your permission to examine the device on your wrist. Your mother’s told me she found it in a cave some time ago and it took a shine to you.”

“Mhm,” Cici confirms. “The voices said they were lonely…”

“I can imagine, but if there’s one thing you must understand about magic, dear child, is that it can be very dangerous. I want to ensure that this isn’t the case. With your permission, I’d like to take a look at it.”

[“I don’t mind, but what about you guys?”]

> Write-in

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>>734666

Things have slowed down a lot, and I'm kind of out of steam, maybe we'll get some more players in tomorrow. If you vote for yes, feel free to include dialogue for Grampa Wizard.

>>734666
"Sure, why not. Proabably should have checked earlier, to be honest."
To wizard:
"您好巫師.我們呌無名氏."

>>734666
We are the voices of the Lost. We try to help but some of us are insane and mean, and some even lie. Cici might be a Seer as she has dreams of things that have happened to people she knows, mostly that undead skeleton who is her uncle or something.

Most of us mean no harm. But we have been alone for a long time so not all of us are... sane.

Also, Cici is a good girl, but she knows too little. If you won't teach her magic could you at least teach things she should know? She is more ignorant that the humans kids her age.

And while we can ocasionally teach her things, we can't teach her everything because some of us lie.

We are scared about people hurting her. There are bad people out there, and... while it would be incredibly stupid to do that here, she could be kidnapped and sent to a monster zoo.

That's why we want her to study, knowledge is power and it helps. Magic is also power but if she doesn't have the talent then that's it.

Also make sure no one knows that she is a Seer, a long of greedy people will want a Seer.

Of course she might not be one, that skeleton might just be sending her memories during dreams, but if she starts to see more things in her dreams then you should worry.

Overall, we are like old crazy men, you can't trust everything we say and we adore Cici like she was our niece. And we ocasionally say something helpful.

>>734666
Sure, let the man have a go at us.

"Yo, gramps. A lot of different voices in here. Some lie, some try to get people hurt for laughs, we got some that think they know magic better than the rest of us, like this guy >>735272, and the rest of us try to give useful advice to Cici."

[The townspeople around here are bigots and racists, and maybe some of them are decent people. The baker, he's a good person; taught Cici some of the basics of baking. Others need to be given a short rope and a long drop, if you get my drift.]

>>735476
"Cici'll proabably end up changing at least some of the townspeople's minds. Cici's too nice to hate for long. Then again, people are idiots."

>>734666

Hej uncle wizard.
"Goddagens morbor häxkonstare, Vi är de namnlösa. Lär våran CiCi magi tack"

Also the griffins name is susan and he wants you to respect his life choices https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4eURhm7Q0Kw

>>734666

"I don't even know what I am. I have vague recollections of what used to be my past, mostly common sense, personality and some bits of knowedge that wasn't eroded by time. All I can say is that the others and me found a kindred spirit in this girl and we try to guide her into the good path, although not all of us are of good nature"

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>>734666

After listening to the voices, Cici turns her attention to her wrist, carefully unlacing the strings that keep it bound to her before handing the unassuming leather bracer to her new grandfather.

“Please don’t hurt them,” she begs gently, unable to meet his gaze.

“I’ll try my best,” he assures her, placing a hand on her writhing locks where the little snakes try to hold him before he gently pulls away and makes to return to the tower.

[“Well, it isn’t a bound item, at least. That’s perhaps less worrying.”]

>>735058 >>735272 >>735476
>>735598 >>736288 >>736306

Those internal thoughts pause as the voices begin trickling in through the bracer, the man simply stopping for a moment in his ponderous gait and listening to what you have to say.

[“Hmm. I understand that you consider your sentiment to be generally positive with regards to Cici. And granted you haven’t tried to influence my actions or thoughts thus far, perhaps that means you have no intention or you simply lack the ability. A little tinkering with the mechanism will tell me one way or the other, I suppose.”]

With a groan, he gently seats himself at a nearby table, settling in before producing a small, sharp knife from within his cloak.

[“Now, I also understand you may be hesitant about this part, but I only intend to remove the casing which houses the amulet, something I can fix very easily after my examination. As you mentioned, the voices are not entirely consistent, and there are many dangerous things lurking within the Immaterium that are often seeking portals like this into our world. With your permission, I intend to make sure that those gateways and loopholes that might cause Cici harm are thoroughly closed. In the meantime, I’m willing to answer whatever questions you may have.”]

> Write-in

>>737723

"I merely would like to know what we are. I know I exist, but not what I am or if I used to be a mortal such as yourself long ago. I find quite strange that I find familiar objects and creatures this child interacts with despite those do not exist along me."

>>737723
"Our original creator, the purpose of putting so many minds in this device, are the big questions."

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>>737723
>>738014
>>737966

[“Well, what you truly are remains to be determined. That said.”]

With a sort of casual grace, the old man begins expertly carving into the leather surrounding the amulet and- Ooh! That tickles! And runs a careful circuit several times to fully sever the fabric. A few tugs with the tips of the old wizard’s fingernails thereafter are then enough to dislodge the amulet, which he holds up to the light, turning it back and forth. You can feel the warmth of his hand, the power flowing behind his fingertips, when all at once, a jolt flashes from his hand into the amulet.

The thrum as it reverberates through the amulet scatters the voices, making the entire structure buzz as he reaches deep down into the mechanisms and releases a gentle violet glow that reveals the runes beneath.

[“I see…. Hmm, Dethek runes and from the 7th Age… If I don’t miss my mark…]

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>>738247

With another flash of power, the jolt runs deeper this time, the light shining from the amulet pulsing in waves as projections of magical circles begin floating into the air, amalgamating, merging into a sort of polygon that hovers and spins.

[“Say what you will of the dwarves, at least they know the limits between artistry and function…’]

The old man muses to himself, his background thoughts now like a chorus of lesser wizards debating and overturning theories in a court room of the mind at a rapid pace. What was the styling, the semantics, the directionality of various circuits and the meaning of certain phrases? They chew through questions like wild fire for good long minutes as the wizard hems and haws over every facet. All this, until finally, quite unceremoniously, the light vanishes and the amulet once more returns to normal.

[“Well, it would seem that the dwarves thought well and truly ahead on many things, more than I would have thought to ward against myself, in fact. As for what you are, who you are, it’s a bit more of a curious question.

“You see, this amulet does not so much contain you as it allows your voices to breach a barrier between this world and the world of spirits, an artifact the dwarves no doubt used to communicate with their ancestors back in the days of more rigorous worship thereof. Where you then come from, what you truly are, is unknown, as many things lurk behind the veil.

“Still, whatever you may be, Cici need not fear to interact with you, and should she no longer desire your council, she need only remove the apparatus. Pray then that your council remains in good standing, lest you find yourself gathering dust on a shelf.”]

The voices remember the bone zone incident, the week of quiet, cold contemplation spent up on the highest shelf where only spiders visited.

[“Now then, if there is anything more you need to ask of me or anything which you wish to tell me before I return you, speak it now. I know of your desire that I teach Cici in the ways of magic and of your concerns that the local population’s racism and fear may bring her to harm. However, the only way I could accomplish either of these things would be to move them far away from this place, to my home along the coast, and well, I’m not entirely convinced that that would be best for either of them.”]

> Write-in

>>738254
"With the help of friendly monsters, you could move here. What's building a tower for beings many times stronger than a human? Besides, you could live closer to the humans in this island. Do the silly but friendly wizard act. It would make the humans feel safer. And that way, if they plan something bad against the monsters, you would know it. Cici... should stay here until she is much older. She has friends here, even amongst humans. But if you can't stay, that's okay. Cici still can learn things even if it's not magic. A child is only a child once, she deserves to enjoy her childhood. Besides is not like she won't have a way to defend herself... is just... that if she turns someone to stone, she doesn't know how to reverse it. Cici is kind and gentle but... it will eventually happen. Is part of her, part of the Gods curse, even as weak as it has become lately. I have seen it, the pride of the gods, their cruelty, in the end, they end forgotten, their followers gone. Such is the price of their arrogance. And... I am ranting again... sorry about that.

Ah I know, could you show Cici some fireworks at night? A wizard used to do that, kids loved it."

>>738254

We just wish for the best for the child. She gives us a purpose for our existence. Alas, there is not much we can do besides offer advice be it good or bad. If you consider either of our requests impossible, maybe its for the better of Cici that she stays here where she has friends and develops until she's ready to pursue higher goals

>>738382
>>738391

2nd one but with fireworks. Show us what magic can do so she never loosens her resolve.

>>738254
"Moving right now is probably undesirable. As it is, perhaps you have some primers or basic texts that Cici could read? Exercises that she could do each day to test for magical ability?"

>>738532
No, no, no. She can't practice magic alone. That's worse than giving a monkey a knife.

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>>738254
>>738382
>>738391
>>738532

[“I fear my wife would have something to say on the matter of a sudden move. Honestly, that woman’s sewing circle is more terrifying than any dragon I’ve yet encountered. There’s also my apprentices to consider, my younger guild associates, and the modest place I hold on the city council. No, if a move would be unfavorable for this family, it could very well be disastrous for the city I am abandoning. Still, a visit every fortnight or so might be possible.”

“During that time, perhaps I could teach her some magic, provided she has the knack. Though I should warn the lot you, it’s uncommon for a child her age to have developed enough to be detectable, let alone usable. It typically falls into place around the time the body is advancing toward maturity, in other words puberty, something I’ve never been able to convince every would-be archmage’s parents who’d rather I babysit their misbehaved noble brat, teaching things they’ll never have the capacity to utilize, than being actual parents….

“In any case, I digress. There is a way to test in the here and now whether she has a gift which might explain these dreams you keep mentioning, a simple circle to draw power through channels should they exist.”]

Producing a pen and a small piece of paper, the wizard carefully inscribes a small runic circle on the surface. Seemingly as an afterthought, he then snaps, and the leather bracer fuses itself back together, once more snuggly concealing the amulet within. With those matters taken care of, he then returns to the outside world to find a family luncheon underway, the lizard man, his god child, her mother, and a young harpy girl all eating happily around the fire.

“Here you go, dear,” Brad offers, gently placing the bracer into Cici’s outstretched hands. “You’re friends are absolutely fine.”

“Thanks, Grampa,” Cici says cheerily, quickly setting about returning the voices to their proper place.

[“I missed you guys.”]

> Write-in

>>738918
"Hi Cici, enjoy the food!"

>>738918
Oh, food! Any stories from Vivi?
Oh, and pester your grandfather about being tested for magic.
And he mentioned being on a city council; maybe ask him when you can visit the city.

>>738918

"We missed you too, Cici. Your grampa is a good person and you should treat him with the highest respect he deserves."

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>>738940
>>738970

[“Uncle Yesh caught some fish for us to eat! He even showed me how, though he said mine was just a baby and I had to let it go… They’re really good though! Also, Vivi says she’ll teach me how to fish like a bird next time!”]

Huh, you wouldn’t have thought it had been that long since you had been separated.

[“As for Vivi, she said she doesn’t have to work today. So she slept really late. She also says Grampa wants us to move away with him, and seemed kind of upset.”]

>>738983

[“Grampa and Archer are nice people, and Mama says when you want to be polite to people, you should always say sir and ma’am, also Mr. and Ms. Should I call Grampa Mr. Grampa then?”]

Before she has too long to think about it, Mr. Grampa has a hand on her shoulder, the other extending the piece of paper down into her grasp.

“What’s this?” Cici questions, looking at the scrap curiously before taking it.

“It’s just a piece of paper with a bit of magic in it, dear, and if you hold it just right, something wonderful might happen. All you need to do now is take your thumb. Yes, just like that, and place it on this tiny circle, and try to think of-“

His train of thought is interrupted as a shower of sparks erupts from the paper and goes flying up his sleeve, Cici looking on in amazement for half a second before tossing the paper to the ground and trying to put it out with her foot.

“Sorry Grampa!” Cici says as the old man flaps his coat. “I didn’t mean t-“

But the old wizard simply laughs as he continues to pat out the few smoldering beads still hiding in his beard, his eyes twinkling like a younger man’s as his grin shows through his beard.

“Well, I suppose that would settle things then.”

> Write-in

>>739175
YOU ARE A WITCH CICI! But you don't have to move out the island if you don't want to.

>>739175
Congratulations, Cici!
You've got the Touch!
You've got the POWER!

But most of all, you have the spark of Magic, and your grandpa can teach you some magic!

>>739175

We didn't meant to hide it from you, but your grampa was planning to test your magical aptitude, and for what we saw, you passed the test. We don't know if you will be able to start right now, but someday you might get magical training ... if that's what you desire

>>739175


Magic. Baking. Become a Sugarmancer.

>>739175
"Yer a wizard, Cici."

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>>739175
>>739198
>>739268
>>739416

“Gah! I don’t wanna be a witch!” Cici says aloud, stumbling back from the still smoldering paper now. “Witches are mean an’ ugly an’ they hurt people!”

“Cici, what in the world has gotten into you?” Mama asks, a question she quickly drops in favor of action as Cici goes falling backwards over a log. “What’s wrong, sweetling?”

“Unless I miss my mark, she may have been subject to an acute mischoice of words,” Brad helpfully interjects, moving over to the still frazzled young girl. “Or an unfavorable one at any rate.”

“The voices say I’m a witch now!” Cici says, sniffling a little due to her scraped legs. “But I don’t wanna be one…”

“Would you prefer to be an enchantress, then?” Grampa asks, taking her hands gently as Mama steadies her shoulders. “Or maybe a sorceress?” Cici nods. “Well, then, you absolutely can be. Words and titles hardly mean anything in this world and less in the books they’ve been written in. You see, I’ve met good witches and evil wizards, near saintly warlocks and ghoulish priests. What matters in this world are actions, how we choose to use our gifts, not our titles. Do you understand?“

“Mhm. I think so….”

“Good,” he says gently. “Then that would make you wiser than the vast majority of men I’ve met in these past several months. The question from there is simply whether or not you’d want to learn to make use of those talents, even if it means hard work and long hours of practice.”

“C-Can I still stay here?” Cici asks.

“You can stay wherever you like,” he assures her. “All that it takes to learn anything is an open mind and knowledge to fill it with.”

“I don’t think the library has any books on magic…” Cici says sheepishly.

“Well, I’ve a dusty tome or two I can bring on my next visit, I assure you,” the old man promises, “and for right now, I think I might stay an extra day to help get you started. I’ll just have to scrounge up some paper and some more chalk for you to practice with, maybe some alembics and some scales… oh and maybe we can find you a familiar. I think a ball python would be fitting…”

> Write-in

>>739517
>>739175
"...Actually, alchemy might be a good fit for you. That or golemancy. Clay is kind of like dough, right?"

>>739522
"You could make Din-Din a familiar."

>>739522
Choosing a familiar is a big responsibility, Cici.
Make sure you get all of your options described to you before you choose.
It's like choosing between a bagel and a kaiser roll, when they haven't told you that bagels come in a dozen different flavors, there's also different types of bread like pumpernickel and rye, and they've been hiding the sweatbread and doughnuts behind the counter.

>>739527

Also it's a very respectable profession. Just once I'd like to advise someone who doesn't end up saving the world.

>>739522

I do recommend you to try a bit of everything until you find one of the disciplines of magic of your liking.

As for a familiar, I suggest you to ask your grampa about this more. I'm afraid i'm not well versed in the know how of familiars and probably is a very important step in a magic user's life, too important to be decided by us voices.

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>>739522
>>739709
>>739551
>>739522

“Mama says I’m not supposed to have any more pets,” Cici says quietly. “And the voices say I should think about it for a while, cuz it’s like bread and there are lots of flavors.”

“Well, I can understand that, and they aren’t exactly wrong, dear. Your familiar in many ways becomes like a part of yourself, like Archer is to me. It’s like having a dear friend who you share everything with.”

“Does that mean Vivi can be my familiar? Or Din-Din?”

The old man chuckles.

“Well, I won’t say there aren’t ways for two people to become linked, but in general, it’s far safer to pick an animal of some form or another, sort of like starting with a blank canvas. Now, Din-Din, on the other hand, would you like me to check to see if he can?”

“Mhm,” Cici confirms, the two of them both then wandering to the pile of fur and feathers, Archer proudly perched on top of Din-Din’s back.

“Come now, Archer, shoo!” the old man commands, and the cat is immediately on its way, the rabbit seemingly finding that no occasion to bother moving. “Well, then, a simple spell should tell us if he qualifies.”

A few words of power leave the wizards lips, fingers waggling and arms moving in a circular motion as he casts a wave of magic at the rabbit, something like a gentle wind blowing through the grass and his fur as he continues staring at the two humans unperturbed. A moment passes and then a set of twinkling lights appears forming runes in a ring around him.

“Hmm, curious,” the wizard murmurs, throwing another spell at the bunny, then another, lights soon dancing all around him in various languages before, with a wave of his hand, Brad casts them all aside, stroking his beard contemplatively. “I suppose we’ll try one more thing.”

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>>739839

This time, the wave of magic is stronger and noticeably different, the ripple of it leaving a green aura over the grass as it makes its way to the rabbit. There, like a spray of colors had impacted the air, a faint pinkish color silently spreads, swirling and rippling in an indistinct blob before a single tendril shoots off from the whole. Winding like a languid snake, it slowly makes its way back to Cici.

“I suppose it isn’t entirely unnatural for these bonds to form on their own,” the wizard comments. “I’d say it’s almost midway to full maturity.”

“What’s that mean?” Cici asks, cocking her head as she looks up into the taller man’s face.

“You could say that as things stand, you have half of a familiar already,” the old man responds. “Din-Din’s aura and your own are decidedly connected, and overtime that connection may strengthen.”

“Is that good?”

“Well, if this is what you prefer, there’s certainly nothing wrong with it. A familiar is, after all, simply a creature infused with a portion of your intelligence. In turn, they share some of their own senses with you, as well as some of their fortitude in times of trouble. It’s simply a matter of whether you wish for Din-Din to be that special someone. Truth be told, we’re a little short on dragons at the moment. Then again… Maybe I could see if Archer’s hatch mates have some offspring that need tending….”

> Write-in to give me your thoughts, but this is the last proper update.

>>739846
I'm not making a comment on if you should or not but there were those kittens in town and despite your opinion on witches the cat is kind of a classic.

>>739846
"Rabbits are neat. They can hear well, move quickly, and dig. No one suspects a rabbit. ...Wait, why are familiars necessary?"

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>>739846

The poll's open for suggestions in hunting down new and exotic pets for the miniature mage, but otherwise, I hope you guys had fun. I'm going to try to run Monday if the sky doesn't fall.

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>>739873

And... the thread's up in the usual place. We seem to have kind of had a misarchival incident shoving someone else's quest into our archive list, so the one marked (real) is actually thread 5. Anyway, vote it up, if you have the mind:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=gorgon+child

>>739686

No need to worry too much anon. Cici was able to make sparks, but she's still a long, long way from a fireball. She's just a little ahead of the curve in actually being able to access her latent magical ability.

>>739869

As for if familiars are necessary, they really aren't. They are sort of just an add-on that a lot of mages like to have. They make it easier to concentrate, provide an extra reserve of mana in a pinch, and they can help expand their owner's awareness. Plus, you know, a companion is always nice to have.

>>739925
Thanks for running.

>>739925
Wait, is lifespan of the animal or magic-person affected by familiarship? Do we need to ask these things in-quest?

>>739983

You may want to ask some of these things in quest, yeah, just so that Cici knows them for certain. Next time may begin on a sort of elementary magical note to help fill in some of those blanks in fact.

>>739846
We should ask if Cici can have more than one Familiar, what side-affects between the Familiar and their wizard, and if it's really possible to have a dragon as a familiar.

>>739846
What happens when the bunny dies? He is not from a long lived species and you are young, so you will probably outlast him.