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FF-Unlike Normality: Part 4 (Old)
9 years ago
General
(Uneventful Finale)
(Day 5-23)
V: Ah, Mr. Montaine. There you are.
H: Queen?
V: I've come with the instruments from yesterday in the hopes that we could engage in musical affairs again today.
H: Ugh...Kindle?
K: Ohhh, whatever. Just let me lie in peace...
H: Okay, we can play again.
V: Superb! I hope you don't mind teaching my daughters as well, as they'd love to learn, too.
LA: Wait, we're actually learning? Mother, you really need to stop talking in innuendo.
LB: Hi, Harry! Oh. Hi, Kindle.
K: MMMmmm...
LB: Okay...
H: Lily?
K: ...HUH?!
LB: It's okay, Kindle! Above the waist and below the knees, right, Harry?
V, K, and LA: (Look confusingly at H)
H: Uhh, yeah, but he looks like he's trying to sleep, so maybe another time?
K: Ugh, useless brat, get off!
LB: Oh, sorry...
V: Come, now. That's no way to treat your sister, Kindle. Oh, look, she's sad now.
LB: No, I didn't mean to...
K: Ughhh, what a drag.
H: Umm, Kindle?
K: Yeah. Yeah.
LB:...
K: (Heavy sigh)...Lily?
#
(Big hug)
K: (Half-heartedly) Sorry.
LB: ...Sniff...
K: Oh, don't do that. I just woke up.
LB: Sorry, I just...wanted to make you happy for once...
...
# already make me happy, Lily.
...
K: And I don't mean that. I mean now.
...
LA: Ugh. I think I'm gonna be...Gonna be...
V: (Quietly sheds tears)
K: All right, that's enough hugs for one day. Let me sleep...
LB: Okay. I'll be sure to come back tomorrow for the next one!
H: Oh, my heart!
K: Huh? What's wrong?!?
H: I think it just...doubled in size from the amount of cuteness I just witnessed.
K: Oh, shut up...
LB and V: (Giggle)
# it over? Oh, finally.
V: What's the matter, Lilith? Does genuine affection disturb you?
LA: I should be asking you that.
V: Oh, you better expect a good backhand by the end of this session...
LA: You can't backhand what you can't catch, old hag!
V: TCH! To hell with you...Forget about her, let us begin.
H: Right. So...
...
H: Woah. Wait.
LB: Ah, so, like this?
V: Or like this?
H: Guys, be careful playing with "those" kinds of beats. Play them a certain way and you'll summon-
V: Or, like this!
H: No, wait!
G: SKAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!
H: Gerald!
(24)
V: AH! Filthy beast! I told you to keep away from my son!...Wait...
G: Nghaaaa...
LB: OH NO, OH NO, OH NO, OH PLEASE NO!
H: Friendly, Gerald! Friendly. They are friendly people, okay?
KI: What's all that screeching-Oh.
G: Skuck.
LB: DADDY! MAKE IT GO AWAY! PLEASE!
KI: Hi there. Welcome to our kingdom.
V: Welcome?!? This thing is Unblessed! Do something! Call for extra guards!
KI: Nah.
V: P-Pardon??
KI: You've been pardoned.
V: I'm in danger, you fool! Do something before-Ugh! Keep away!
G: Ngaaaaaah...
KI: I think he's taken a fancy to you.
LB: Daddy, I think he's gonna-Oh, no-He's gonna hurt mommy!
H: No, Lily, he's not gonna hurt anyone, I promise!
V: Yes, he's going to hurt mommy! And he'd better keep away if-
G: (Lick)
V: GASP! DID-DID-DID-
LB: Did the gryphon-Did it just-
KI: Oh, this should be entertaining!
V: What kind of husband are you?!? I've been assaulted-Assaulted, I tell you!-And you do nothing to help me?!?
KI: Well, it's only fair.
V: Only fa-FUCK YOU!!!
G: NGHAAAAAH!!!
V: No, not you, I mean-UGH, GET OFF OF ME!!!
LB: Harry, puh-puh-lease, tell the gryphon to go away!
H: I-I-Gerald! Gerald!
G: Skaaaaa?
H: Down, Gerald!
G: ...Ska.
V: Oh, it's crushing me!
H: NO, Gerald, I mean, down FROM her!
G: ...Ngha.
V: GET. OFF. YOU. VER-
G: (Lick)
V: ...min...
G: Nghaaa...(Continues licking)
V: Ohh...You're all monsters...All of you...(Sobs to herself)
LB: (Sobs along with her)
KI: (Slow clap that gradually increases)
H: Oh, my goodness. I'm so sorry.
KI: Don't be! This is the best entertainment I've had with this damn family in years!
G: Skuck.
KI: Skuck, indeed!
LB: Daddy, is-is-
KI: Don't you worry, Rose. Mommy is just fine.
LB: But-She's crying...
KI: Tears of joy, sweet Lily Rose! Tears of joy.
V: Ohh, bleh...You're awful...
KI: Never claimed I wasn't.
H: ...What the hell have I gotten myself into?
KI: The worst family in the entire dragon country. Pleasure to make your acquaintance.
H: Gerald...Come on, Gerald....
G: Fluuuu?
H: Come on. I need you, pal. Come on.
G: ...Fluuuuu.
V: HUH! It...It...
KI: Aww, it's over.
#
LB: Thank goodness! Are you okay, mother?
V:...
LB: Mo-Mommy?
V:...
KI: I think your mount just broke her will to live.
H: Queen Vera?
#
H: Yes?
LB: Are you okay, mommy?
V:...
...
V:...I'm gonna need a good, long bath after this...
(Looks at KI)
And I'll be needing you for a Good...Long...Talk.
KI: Oh. How romantic.
# I'm done with you, you won't be able to walk for an entire year, so you'll have no choice but to stay here.
K: Neat, now everyone GET OUT of my room!
V: YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP BEFORE I DO THE SAME TO YOU!
K:...
V: Yeah, I thought so. Now...
(Walks up to Gerald)
...You don't ever lick me until I say you can lick me, understand?
G: Nghaaaa....
V: We are leaving. Now.
KI: When did you decide to grow a pair?
V: When you decided to put yours elsewhere.
KI: Hmph. You won't last a minute.
V: And you won't last a second.
...
LB: Is it-Is it over?
H: Yeah, it is.
G: Milaaa...
LB: Gasp!
H: It's okay, Lily! He's not gonna hurt you, see? He's friendly. Right, Gerald?
G: Fluuuuu...
H: Friendly.
G: Fluuu...
H: Fluuuuu...
LB: Fluuuuu?
H: Yeah, fluuuu.
LB: Hah, that's kinda silly.
G: Fwa!
LB: Oh, he's on his belly like a dog!
G: Fwaaawaa...
H: I think he's tired now.
G: Fwaaaa...aaaa....aaa...
LB: Oh...
G: Neeaol...neeaol...
H: Shhh, quiet, Gerald...Quiet...
G: Neeaol....ooool...oool...
H: (Hums gently)
#
LB: (Quietly) ...I have a blanket he could use. Hold on...
...
LB: ...Here.
H: Thank you, Lily.
G: ...Oll...
...
H: Thank it all that's over with.
LB: It was terrifying at first, but then it was weird, and then it was terrifying, and then...I don't know.
...
LB: The way you caressed Gerald...I wish mother and father caressed me like that...And when they tried to, it was never gentle...
H:...
LB: Harry?
H: Hmm?
LB: Can I feel...what they feel like?
H: Feel what?
LB: Your hands. Can I feel them?
H: Umm, sure.
LB: Ohh...I always thought Novun hands would feel rough and hard, but they...They feel nice.
H: Like a maid's hands, Jed once said.
LB: Hm?
H: Ahem. Don't know why I remembered that...
LB: ...Harry?
H: Yes?
LB: Are there any other people out there that you're close to?
H: There are a few. Jedediah, Hakin, Gerald. Maybe Nijla and Beryn, too. And, hmm, perhaps Ahzanol as well. And Malek...
LB: They're good people like you, right?
H: Mmm, most of them.
LB: Most?
H: A few of them are mercenaries and one I barely got on good terms with again, but yeah, they're relatively good people.
LB: If they're like you, I'd love to meet them someday.
H: Oh, they're nothing like me. But I appreciate their company anyway.
LB: That's odd. How can you enjoy their company if they're nothing like you?
H: But you just answered your question.
LB: You like them because they're nothing like you? Then, how do you get along? How can you find things to relate to?
H: We're more different due to what species we are and more-or-less different due to how we act around each other.
We're often bounded together through, hmm...self-interests, favors, and social capital. And through all that, we learn to get along and relate to each other in our own ways. Since there is no one way to relate to someone.
...Sorry if I sound like an unspecific stiff or a teacher while saying this stuff. I don't know how else to explain it.
LB: It sounds kinda complicated, but I think I get it. You don't get along right away. You learn to get along, right?
H: Basically. I mean, there's more to it, but-Basically.
LB: Kinda like us, right? You learned to get along with all of us despite what you learned.
H: Ohhh, that's not even worth mentioning now. Mistakes were made, but everyone's learned from them, right?
LB: I hope so.
H: I hope so, too. Because I do like some of you guys and I don't...I don't want to stop liking you because of past mistakes.
LB: ...
H: And it wouldn't be fair to you if I always held you in a negative light for what was done amongst yourselves, but not done to me. I think that's what your father meant when I first talked to him, that I still call Kindle "friend" in spite of anything else.
LB: Da-Father said that?
H: Yeah.
LB:...
H: Your father is something else.
LB: ...He is.
(25)
LB: Ohh, he's still sleeping?
K: Mmmmm...I was.
LB: Sorry.
K: So many sorries...Mphm. Okay, I'm up.
H: Morning, Red.
LB: Good morning, brother. Oh!
(Hug)
K:....Morning, Rose.
LB: But it's not the next day yet.
K: Never promised you a hug the next day. Although, if today goes well, I might.
LB: Promise?
K: Hell no. You know how unstable everyone is here, me included.
LB: Hmph. Fair enough.
K: Sigh. I just...
H: What?
(Looks outside)
K: We really suck, don't we?
H: Huh?
K: I mean, our species really sucks. We can't breath fire, we can't fly, we can't cast spells, we struggle to walk on all twos, we just...suck.
H: I think your species is really cool.
K: Really? What is it you admire about us?
H: Well, you're really big. And you got horns. And scales. And long ears. And...
K: And?
H: Uhh, you...
K: Most of the other drakkens already have all that, and then some. Even some of the bloody kobolds can fly. We're as far away from the definition of "cool" as we can be.
# think you're really cool, Kindle.
K: Oh, shut up..I mean, thank you.
LB: You are welcome.
K: Ugh...Still getting used to this "decent brother" act...
H: You're doing well so far.
K: Am I? I honestly haven't noticed.
LB: I think if you want to get better with that, you have to talk to Lilith, too.
K: What? No! I don't want to talk to that slimy bi-I mean, I'll think about it.
LB: That's good. Because she kinda cares about you, too, Kindle.
K: Sigh...I fell for that thought before...
H: So, what do you wanna do today, Red?
K: What's with the nicknames?
H: I always give people nicknames.
K: Always?
H: Well, not always, but when I'm in a good mood, I try to think of a nickname to give someone.
K: And I'm Red?
H: Yeah.
K: ...Because I'm red?
H: Never said I was creative with them.
LB: Hey, what's my nickname?
K: It's "Nosey".
LB: Hey!
K: Heh heh.
LB: You? I'm not sure. Can't call you "Hot Pink" because I already gave Kindle a color nickname. And it doesn't sound right.
K: Indubitably.
LB: What?
K: Oh, something I heard mother say.
H:...
K: Don't look at me like that.
H: I heard your father call you "Lily Rose". Is "Rose" your middle name?
LB: No, that's just a term he gave me when I was a pup and it kinda stuck with me.
K: "Lily Rose, my dear Lily Rose! Where have you gone to, now?"
LB: Kindle?
K: "Have you gone to the forest to talk with the other flowers, Lily Rose?"
LB: Stop it, Kindle!
K: "Did the lonely fox and the one-eyed hound fight over you again, my dear Lily Rose?"
LB: You're embarrassing me...
K: Relax, I'm just giving Harry some inspiration for your nickname.
LB: That better be it...
...
K: "Lily Rose, did you release yourself in mother's chambers again?"
LB: KINDLE!
K: HahahahahHA!
LB: You're terrible...
H: Eh, when I was young, I made my fair share of mistakes with release, too.
K: Oh, but it wasn't a mistake! She was pissed that mother didn't give her a new toy, so she pissed in her room!
LB: OH MY GOODNESS, KINDLE, STOP IT!
K: But this is so much fun!
LB: AND I WASN'T MAD ABOUT THAT, I WAS MAD THAT MOTHER GOT YOU A TOY AND NOT ME!
K:...Oh, right...
LB: YOU ALWAYS...You were always the center of her attention. And I hated that...
K:...
LB: I...I really didn't like you back then, Kindle. You were a gem in her eyes. And I was just a plant.
Something to look at, to give water on occasion. But not to...
K: You didn't seem to dislike me back when we became degenerates.
LB: I did as Lilith did. Because she was my superior when mother and father weren't here. As were you.
K:...
LB: Believe me, I hated every second of it. If you only you saw the tears. But you couldn't, because you were too busy releasing your frustration on us to notice.
K: I wasn't...frustrated.
LB: Then, what were you?
K: I...I don't...
...
K: I don't know what I was! I still don't.
LB: Of course.
K:....
LB:...
K: Lily...I won't ever do anything like that to you ever again. As long as I live, I'll...
...
K: ...I'll try to be the best brother to you that I can possibly be. Okay? Because I know you aren't rotten, not like the others. And you deserve better than that, than what we did.
...
# deserve better than me...
#
LB: ...Promise?
K: I promise.
(Nuzzle heads gently)
K:...So, what do you think, Harry? A real improvement over "Thank you", wasn't it?
H: That was...That was really good of you, Red.
K: Damn straight.
(26)
H: You know...You remind me a lot of me, Kindle. Parents weren't always home, lacked meaningful relationships with siblings...
K: Yeah?
# a very great attitude...
K: Thanks.
H: And, perhaps, had my own share of desires...
K: Oh? So, tell me...
H: Oh, no.
K: What were your share of desires?
H: Oh, well, I don't really have them the same way now...
K: But what were they?
H: I dunno...Tall, dark-skinned, long, black, thick hair...
K: Ah ha! You liked 'em exotic, huh?
H: I mean, I liked light-skin, too. But not pale-skinned. Or super-skinny. Like a skeleton.
K: Skeletons kill the mood, I agree.
H: Why am I telling you this?
K: It's our way of bonding.
H: Bonding, huh?
K: It lets me know you aren't the perfect "good guy" stiff I thought you'd be when we first met.
H: Yeah, I thought you'd be like a worse Jed when I met.
K: Jed?
H: Friend of mine outside of dragon country. Socialite, energetic, upbeat...
K: I was nothing like that. Except maybe the ride, but...
H: No, right when we met. I thought you'd be somewhat like that, but pessimistic.
K: Well, you got the "pessimist" part right.
H: But I don't think the same way, just to make myself clear. I say that because I told Jed what I thought of him back when we first met and he was furious.
K: Why?
H: Because he actually treated me well when we met and I totally overlooked it.
K: Wow. You dick.
H: I...Yeah, that's fair.
K: Dark-skinned, long hair...
H: Yeah.
K: So, I take it Lily's out of the question?
H: WAS what I liked, Kindle. Was.
K: That's not a yes.
H: Not a no, either. Wait.
K: Oh, Lily!
H: That's not what I-Oh, you bastard.
K: Heheheh.
H: Laugh it up, wingless.
K: Oh, that was uncalled for and you know it.
H: Sorry I hurt your feelings, you sensitive boy, you.
K: Apology accepted. Smoothie.
(27)
KI: ...Son.
K: Father.
KI: Your mother and I...
K: Please don't.
KI: No, I demand you listen! Okay...We discussed some things and...
K: You decided to act like a real father now?
KI: Now, listen here, you little-Hmm.
To pertain to your form of dialect, I will say that I will now start acting like a real father and stay here for...longer periods of time.
K: Woah. The fuck was that good, huh?
...
KI: Godlike.
K:....
KI: No, she had me realize some things. Where I was truly needed. Convinced me that my adventures, as she called them, were in vain. And that...what I really desired...wasn't out there...
K: Good for you.
KI: Perhaps mistakes were made. Perhaps. And we cannot change that. But...we can't change yesterday or what we think tomorrow will be like. But we can change today. Atone for our wrongdoings. Not abolish them, but attempt to bring ourselves beyond them. We can't do this alone. We...need each other, whether you or I like it or not.
K: You may need me...
H: Kindle...
K: Sigh.
KI: So, I've come to ask you for your cooperation. When the time comes, we need to come together and address the issues of our kingdom and our family alike. No one will be denied. No one will be left to stand idly by as the day passes before them.
K: Father, you know I want nothing to do with politics.
KI: Neither do I. Why do you think I left? Because I didn't want to deal with that crap. But...It took some persuasion to see that I can leave no longer. I could accomplish what I needed to do and, perhaps, what I wanted, here. And it was not just your mother that made me see that.
...
KI: So, I guess you don't really don't have a say in the matter. You're royalty, after all. There are things expected of you as there are of me. And there's a reason those expectations exist, I suppose.
K: To restrict us from our own individual lives for the betterment of the kingdom?
KI: To do what no one else wants to do. But what still needs to be done.
...
K: Sure picked a helluva time to become responsible.
KI: It's not like I plan these things.
K: So, that's it, then? No more traveling the world, no more neglecting responsibilities, no more lust tales?
KI: I don't know how I'd do it myself, but that's because I won't. We will all do this.
K: All of us?
KI: All of us. I'm sure as shit not suffering alone, so I expect you be right there, beside me...Suffering with us.
#
KI: We could start today, if I really wanted to. But I'd rather not, since I've only discussed this with your mother and you. I'm about to discuss this with your sisters after I'm done here.
K: Actually discuss it?
KI: Yes. Actually discuss it.
K:...Promise me. Promise me you will actually discuss this with them. Promise me we will get together and discuss this. And promise me that this will happen, but only two days from now.
KI: Why two days?
K: In two days, Harry's contract here ends. After that...
KI: Of course.
K:...I'm gonna miss being a lazy, good-for-nothing son.
KI: Don't think I won't miss being an irresponsible, good-for-nothing father. This burns me as well as it burns you, you know.
K: Oh, I'm sure your deep in heat right now.
KI: Hey. Don't be weird.
K: Is there any other way than being weird?
KI: I guess we'll find out. In two days.
K: Promise?
KI: Promise.
#
#
K: What?
KI: I...I thought you'd be less agreeable to the idea, but-
K: Did you have that strange feeling, too?
KI: What strange feeling?
K: I dunno. The kind of feeling you hardly ever feel or the kind you've never felt in a long time?
KI: I've felt no such thing.
K: You didn't? Right...
# an odd sensation of indigestion...
...
K: Harry?
H: Yes?
K: I need you to visit my sisters' rooms in twenty minutes. Check up on Lily and, if you want, Lilith. See how they are.
H: Are you...
K: They would appreciate the company, I think.
# do, boss.
(28)
KI: Mr. Montaine?
H: I'm not interrupting, am I?
LA: I'd rather you did.
KI: And I'd rather you be less of a bitch. You came out of your mother's womb, but that doesn't mean you should act like her.
LB: Oh, hi, Harry...
H: Hey, Lily. What's wrong?
LB: Oh, just recovering from what da-father told us.
H: Oh.
LB: Still can't believe you're leaving us in two days. It was a lot of fun, but I guess we have things we need to do.
H: A part of me would love to stay a bit longer, but I have to get back to my group. A week is as long as they'll let me go on less than three standard contracts without bringing home money.
LB: And I bet you miss them, too?
# could say that.
...
H: Except maybe Udeeno. He's kinda...rough...
LA: Rough, huh?
H: I mean, he's more stern and less apologetic than the rest of my group members. And a brutal teaser.
LA: Oh, you don't like being teased, Mr. Hairy Mountains?
KI: You can outrun your mother, but you can't outrun me.
H: ...Son of a...
KI: Ignore her, Mr. Montaine, she-
H: Haha.
KI: Hmm?
H: That tease. That tease was the first thing that came up when I chose that name. And Udeeno didn't even make it.
It was friggen' Kellun. Heh.
LA: How fascinating.
H: I swear, Kellun's the only one that could do that and get away with it.
LB: Kellun? What's he...she...your friend like?
H: She's one of the more mellow kobolds I know. You could tell the world to her and she'd just smirk and take a drink out of whatever she bought at the pub that day. Not because she doesn't care, she actually listens more than we give her credit for, but that's how she better evaluates the events of our particular days.
And she also has these particular skills-
(Rambling)
And then, there's that warhammer-
(Rambling)
...and she has this fancy smoking pipe-
(Rambling)
...I mean, I don't like smoking or smokers, but I make an exception to her even though the stuff she smokes is pretty rancid in smell when you're close enough to notice it. So...Uhh...Umm...
KI: ...Mmm? Were you saying something?
LA: Zzzzzz...
LB: She sounds...just...incredible!
H: I'm sorry, was I rambling?
LB: Huh?
H: I forgot what we were originally...
LB: Oh, keep talking about your friend! Tell that story again, the one where she scared all the hoodlums in the bar away by using that one broken wine bottle! Or how she tamed that dragon with that special powder she got from the Northern Mountains!
H: Uhh...Wow, it's late now...
LB: Or how...how...yawn...
KI: You said something about a kobold and a...bone club? Was it a bone club?
H: No, it was a warhammer. Fighting vigilantes with a bone club...how silly...
KI: Mmmhmm, right. Anyways, I should be heading to my chambers now.
(Looks at Lilith)
Hope your nightmares are worse than mine...
(Looks at Lily)
I hope you have a good night's sleep, dear Lily Rose. Although, with Harry here, that shouldn't be too difficult.
LB: A good night to you, too, father.
KI: Now, then...
LB: Okay...
KI:...Huh?!?
H: This again?
LB: Mmmm.
KI: Oh, you...
(Fairly rough nuzzle)
LB: Uff!
KI: Oh, dear! I didn't mean to hurt you, sweetheart!
LB: I know, daddy...
KI: I just...tried to show you affection properly. Like your mother used to. But...
Guess I lost my way...
LB: You...yawn...lost something?
# Yeah, I may have lost something.
# think I lost something as well, but I forgot what it was. Kindle and Harry helped...yawn...jog my memory a little, but I think you can help me, too...
KI: We've all lost something, Lily. But, I think I can help you find what you lost.
# I can help you with...yawn...with...
Wait.
KI: What is it, dear?
LB: I forgot to...say goodnight to Harry...
KI: Of course. Harry?
H: Yes, my lord?
LB...Harry?...
H: Lily Rose?
(Slow hug)
LB: Good...night...
H: Good night, dear Rose.
...
H: Oh, she...
KI: Hold on. I've got her.
H:...
KI: You know, it's moments like this that make me hate myself for leaving.
H: I'd never leave at all, if I knew someone like her was who I was coming home to.
KI: I never pictured you the emotional type, Mr. Montaine.
H: It's just during the rare moments like these that I can't help but get...I dunno, sentimental.
KI: You do know. Don't say you don't.
H: Sorry, bad habit of mine.
KI: "Sorry..."
H: Sigh.
KI:...It's going to get hard a few days from now. But I suppose that's the way these things eventually end up.
H:...
KI: And I don't think I could bear to see my children in such stress, gryphon incident notwithstanding. Even Lilith, I have the smallest amount of pity for.
H:...
KI: But that's enough rambling for today, eh? I bid you good night, Mr. Montaine.
H: Right...
(Day 6-29)
H: Hey, Kindle.
K: Mmm, how's it hangin'?
H: I'm gonna take a walk around the mountain for a while if that's okay with you.
K: All right, just don't walk too long. There might be a few things I want to do before today ends.
H: Right.
...
V: Well, if it isn't Mr. Montaine.
H: Oh. Hi.
V: A wonderful day for a stroll, is it not?
H:...I'm really sorry for what happened, I-
V: Never mind that. Or rather, perish the memory entirely.
H: I tried to...Very well.
V: A lot has happened in the past week, wouldn't you say?
H: Without a doubt.
V: Secret meetings, attempted assassinations, unchaste summons....Yes, quite a lot.
H: I'd say this is probably going to end up being one of my more memorable contracts.
V: Of course, for there is no royal family as refined, as sophisticated, and as spry as our family.
H: I agree with the "spry" part.
V: Indubitably.
H: Indubitably.
V:...
H:...
V: How is my son doing?
H: He's doing well.
V: No. I mean, how is he?
H: How?
V: He shares details with you that he keeps away from me. For many reasons, I'm certain. I would appreciate if you shared such details.
H: Why don't you go talk to him?
V: Harry, if you did terrible things to your son and had them exposed to the rest of your family, would you consider it wise to talk to him right away? A mere few days after the exposure?
H: I think it'd be a difficult thing to think about, but I wouldn't have a choice but to get it over with.
V: What makes you think you wouldn't have a choice?
H: Because, in that context, he's my son. I wouldn't want my son to hate me for the rest of his life over some stupid...something. I didn't become what I became to be someone's burden, but to be a benefit.
V: I would prefer if this was some stupid thing. But it's not.
H: I know.
V: It would be foolish of me to expect someone's mercy at the hand of my...desperation. This is why I came to you, Mr. Montaine. You've been with him longer than I have this week, spoke to him more, learned about him, shared with him, comforted him...
H: I don't think I did all that, but okay.
V: Sometimes, I would watch you two talk from a distance. The expressions he makes toward you are ones I know he will never give me. And if that be so, then so be it. But, as long as you are here, could you at least inform me of his current mental condition?
H: He's just trying to get by. At least, until that meeting happens.
V: So...Same as before?
H: I mean, I think he's a little closer to Lily and his father, now. But by how much, I don't know. There are some things even he doesn't tell me.
V: At least he puts some effort into bonding with them.
H: He tries. Even if he may not want to, he tries.
# he mention me?
H: Before my third day here, he mentioned you a lot. Now, not so much.
V: I trust it was nothing positive?
H: He want on a rant at one point, but beforehand, implied that if you weren't alone here, you would be a lot happier.
V: I'm surprised he actually considered my happiness for once.
H: Hey. That's not fair.
V: Pardon?
H: What he did for you. Was that not him trying to make you happy?
V:...
H: Granted, he could've tried other ways, like not actually committing to penetration and, perhaps, preserving his semen in a container of sorts to give to you so as to not perform full intercourse...
V: Are you actually...
H: I've been desensitized, so it's cool. Anywho, you could've done this a lot better than how you went about it. Or, at least, less immorally. Did you know that semen can actually last a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 6 days? So, there's not much need for immediate ejaculation from an immediate mate if all you desire is pregnancy. Now, I don't know if your species handles that much differently than humans or if the conditions in the mountain would lessen the survival rate of...
V: I thought we were past this. For the moment, anyway.
H: Sorry, I just really wanted to say something after thinking about what I learned.
V: Have you said everything?
H: Not everything. But I don't think the rest of what I want to say is anything you don't already know. Like, it's not the scientific stuff I mentioned right now.
V: Good.
H: I mean, I already told you about inbreds, right?
V: I'm leaving now.
H: Oh, wait!
V: If you are going to continue berating me for my actions, I will leave.
H: Look, I...Can I ask you for a favor?
V: A favor?
H: I just want this one thing. Nothing else.
V: I suppose a favor is fair. You did stop my son from killing me in a blind rage and introduced to me the joys of musical instruments, albeit at the cost of my dignity...State your favor, and I will consider fulfilling it.
H: I can only do so much for Kindle, you know, considering my time left here. He's, eh, somewhat happy when I'm beside him, but I know I'm not enough. I'm just a best friend. What he wants, what would truly make him happy, is something I can't give him.
# gryphon?
H: Can you please allow Thistle free access to the mountain when I'm gone?
V:...
H: It would make Kindle happy to have her here, beside him, for as long as they want to be here. And it might garner you some respect to see you, out of everyone, allow their relationship to, well, flourish?
V: This...This is all you want?
H: That's all I want.
V: Why does it matter to you that they're together or not?
H: Because I know what it's like to feel like you're impossibly far from the closest friends and family you've ever had.
V:...
H: It's not a good feeling, not at all. And to deprive someone else of the happiness they desire-no, NEED the most, well, I think that's the worst thing you could ever do to a person.
V: So...I must be the worst queen in your eyes, if that's the case.
H: If you do this, you just might not be.
# think I deprive my son of happiness?
H: If you make him happy, it must be when I'm not around. And that doesn't count. Lust and happiness are not always coterminous, after all.
V: You have some nerve, coming into my mountain under the guise of servitude, only to take control of the hearts and minds of my kin and use them against me!
H: I am not trying to be your burden, Vera! I'm trying to be a benefit to you. And I feel like the only way I can help you is if I suggest for you to help your son by doing this. If you do this one favor...
I'll never interfere with you or your family ever again.
V: You won't come to this mountain ever again?
H: I won't. No visits and no unchaste summons. If you allow Thistle to visit here freely, I will never bother you or your kin ever again.
V: You know I could just as easily not follow through with this favor? You leave, you never visit, and neither does she.
H: You don't realize how much you're breaking that man's heart by doing this? Do you think this is just a phase? Something he'll grow out of? Even if it is, he should be the one to choose to grow out of it. And if it isn't? He should be free to love her, just as you should be free to love your husband. As you have.
And what does it matter if you don't have dragon children to lead the kingdom? I, for one, would be totally cool with knowing that my son's sons and daughters are gonna be, say, these cool-looking dragon/gryphon hybrids to rule the kingdom! I mean, isn't that the coolest thing ever? I've never even heard of that!
V:...
# point is, you can prefer a kingdom to be run by dragons only or gryphons only, but you shouldn't oppose the idea of them coming together to make something new, something different. Something with a bit of diversity. And, yeah, even diversity has its problems, but it's not lesser than anything else because of it. Nothing is perfect, after all.
V: So...
H: So...I won't make demands. I'm just saying to you: The second you go up to Kindle and tell him you'll allow Thistle here, I promise I will never return and attempt to "control" the minds of your kin again. And if you don't?
V:...
H: I won't be the one to see the end result. You will.
V:...
H: Thanks for the talk, my queen.
(30)
K: ...Why did you tell her that?
H: To see if she's as rotten as you claimed she is or if your father really did change some things with her.
K: But...
H: I see it this way: If she's still rotten, maybe you'll be able sort things out with her once and for all when that meeting comes up, and I'll be able to visit, at least.
If she's changed, you'll hopefully be able to see Thistle whenever you want and maybe, I mean "maybe", be able to have some sort of basic relationship with your mother that isn't based on pure spite. A sort of "rekindling" of lost kinship.
K: But if...I...How do you not see anything wrong with this?!?
H: I don't see anything wrong with this.
K: How...How could you tell her that so casually? Like its nothing?
H: Because, either way, you win.
K: How do I win?
H: If she doesn't comply, you'll have something extra to use to chew her out when that meeting comes. If she does, you and Thistle can be together peacefully. At least, in theory.
So either way, you win, Kindle.
K: You-IDIOT! Is that all you can think of? Winning? Is that all that matters to you?
H: All that matters to me is that you're happy, Kindle.
K:...
H: That's all that really matters.
K: Just...Shut up with that sappy stuff.
H: I will not.
K: Why do you care if I'm happy, anyways? You know I'm not a good person. I've never saved a village from bandits or Unblessed monsters, I've never donated to the poor, I've never created schools or libraries, I've never done anything beneficial for my kingdom or my family. So, why is it so damn important to you that I'm happy? And if you bring that contract up, I swear to the gods, I will tear it up!
H: Take out the contract.
#
H: Take it out.
K: Why?
H: Now, rip it apart.
K: What, no! I was just saying that-
H: Rip it, Kindle. If you think I was wrong for doing what I did, rip it. My group won't like me returning with no money, but that doesn't matter right now. Rip it.
K: But you aren't-
H: Kindle, rip it.
K: Harry, you-
H: Kindle, rip it!
K: No! I won't rip it!
H: KINDLE! RIP IT!
K: AGGGGHHH, DAMN YOU!
H: Ugh!
K: YOU-YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE, WHY DID YOU SAY THAT?!?
H: To show you I care!
That this matters to me!
That what you desire most is beyond me!
That I am minuscule compared to you and Thistle!
K: You...sniff...you fucking prick...
H: Do you understand why I did it now, Kindle? I liked hanging out with you, I did, but I am nothing compared to the two of you. What you have...It's special. Can't you see how special it is? That's something I don't have! Something I don't think I can ever have!
K: What the hell...are you talking about?
H: I...I envy you, Kindle! In spite of screwing your sisters and mother alike, in spite of you being a useless son, and in spite of you making all of the mistakes you've made...I envy you. All because you have one thing I value the most yet don't have with my group.
# best friend?
H: (Gets close, quietly)
Love.
K:...Ugh! That...That feeling.
H: What you've been feeling for those certain moments, I presume.
K: Ew, but I don't...
H: It doesn't have to be sexual, you know. To be close to someone without wanting to be extremely close to them, that's platonic.
K: The words again...
H: Do you understand what I'm trying to tell you, Kindle?
K: You claim you don't have it with your group, but how do you know what it is?
H: My old group. With them, I was able to feel it. But when they left...I had to look elsewhere. I didn't want to abandon them, but I didn't want to stop exploring this world, either. I didn't want to stop being useful. So, I found a new group. And they...Well, it's taking a while...
K: Is that why you're here? To feel it?
H: No. I'm truly here to help any way I can with the contract. And maybe I've felt a few things...But that doesn't matter. Not compared to the contract, and not compared to you.
K: But..It does matter, man. It does! Don't make stupid favors just because of me. I'm not worth that!
H: Maybe not you, but the both of you...
K: Fucking forget about us, Danny! Forget about us! I mean-Don't forget about us! I mean-Shit! I don't know anymore! I...I...
H: You need her, don't you?
K: I...
H: Call for her. I'll distract your-
#
H: Yes, I'll-
V: My son.
(31)
V: A shame you valued our past conversations as mere distractions, Mr. Montaine. And worse, you've caused so much stress to my poor son. What was that you said about burdens and benefits before?
H: He's just not taking our prior conversation well.
K: Who...Who invited you?
V: My conscious, apparently. I've a proposition just for you, my dear Kindle.
K: Don't call me dear...
V: Oh, but you are my-
K: Spill it! I'm...not in the mood to hear your nonsense.
V: Tch. Very well. As you know, our kingdom requires strong males to rule out kingdom-
K: No, it doesn't.
V: Pardon?
K: Look at me and father. We were here and we let it go to shit. You and your daughters were here and were no better than us.
V: Another one of your brooding episodes, Kindle?
K: No, I'm actually trying to make a point. We need more than just us. We need something beyond us. Not just males or dragons or bloodlines or anything like that. We need something...more.
V: What could we possibly need beyond each other?
K: Something for us to all want or need. Something we can all work toward or believe in, like a doctrine or a religion. But not exactly like that, I think...Or, I don't think...Uhh...
V: I'm not following.
K: Look, we-We need something more, is what I'm trying to say. You can't just want children to succeed us, and...I can't just want Thistle to be here whenever I get stressed out...
V: If you've something to suggest, then suggest it.
K: I...sigh...Damn it! I had it, but now, it's gone now!
H: Like a...commitment? Or a discipline?
K: Yeah, like that, but not called that. Or is it called that? Ugh, I hate thinking about this stuff!
V: It's no favored past time of mine, either, but it is necessary to discuss so long as there are those to discuss it with.
K: But what is "it"?
V: It comes in many terms. Responsibilities. Duties. Commitments, as your stress-inducing friend has said.
K: Things beyond our common perceptions of "rules" or "expectations". But, aren't they exactly that? We need something beyond our current rules, beyond our traditions. Something more. Something new.
V: Why break traditions that have maintained our kingdom for so long?
K: For how long? We've been here for a few centuries at most, but how long until our old rules become too old to adapt to our ever-changing country? They've already become old, if anything.
V: They have not become old, our siblings have simply become too young.
K: The balance of the world is changing, and we're almost completely oblivious to it. Mother, have you heard of the mixed marriages in the other parts of Echlonvale? Or the machine beasts the mages have made? Or the tale of the kobold woman with the soul-sucking flower?
H: ...I didn't know Ace got her own tale...
V: So, you have been paying attention to the events of our world?
K: Sometimes. I mean, all that change...It keeps me up at night. Sad that my only form of participation in that change is a relationship with the best gryphon friend I've ever had...Maybe rivaled with another particular friend...
V: So...Change? You want change to occur in our family?
K: If it wasn't obvious. I mean...Yeah. That's what I want. No more redundant, spiteful crap between all of us, no more spying on each other, no more forced distractions, just...I want things to change now.
# want a family.
K: No. I already have that. I want a slightly less messed-up family. I want to see Lily's smile again. I want to introduce Thistle to father and hear them exchange stories about each other. I want Lilith to stop acting as fucked up as I used to be. I want Harry to visit us from time to time, keep things a little more interesting or chaotic. And I want...
V: Yes, my son?
# want you to admit you were wrong. Even if you don't believe you were.
V: Admit I was wrong about...
K: Just say it to me. Lie to me. Whatever. That's what I want. It won't make me forgive everything, but I think it would be a good start at getting to the thing beyond us.
V: Is that all?
K: I'm a simpler person than you give me credit for.
V: Simple, he says...
K: Sigh. So...
V: I will not apologize.
# I have to get the spear out again?
V: Which one?
K: Oh, my god...
V: The long, impressive one or the other long one?
K: THAT'S IT! Out, now!
V: Heheheh! Oh, but I jest, my son! I jest!
K: Go be a fucking clown somewhere else, yeah? And not in front of friggen' Harry! Right when I'm trying to be serious, too...
V: I won't apologize. Not here.
K: What?
V: When we all meet. Tomorrow.
K: Is that a promise or are you screwing with me again?
V: It's a promise.
#
V: My pride and reputation are on the line, but seeing as they've already been tainted not too long ago, I won't have much to lose now. So, yes. Really.
K:...Okay, then.
V: And Kindle?
K: What?
# the feathered beast must be here, promise me you'll clean up after her, will you?
K: YOU FU...She can clean up after herself.
V: So, she's well trained? There may be hope for her after all.
K: Lady, you're really pushing it.
V: Harry, did you hear that?
H: I heard.
K: Damn it...
V: We'll be expecting frequent visits from you after the completion of your contract. So, don't forget us right away when you leave dragon country.
H: I wouldn't be able to forget even if I tried.
V: Quaint. After all, who could forget such a beautiful queen?
K: That's one way of putting it.
V: Well, how would you put it?
K: Don't think I should say. It'd ruin this wondrous moment between us.
V: Indeed.
...
# the fuck did you do that?
H: Manipulation. I think.
K: You mean, you don't even know?
H: Looks like she has changed a bit.
K: I...have a new respect for my father now, if he could do that. Actually, ew, forget I said anything.
H: So. You're on slightly better terms with your mother now, your girlfriend is now tolerable to her, and you actually want to become involved with your kingdom now. This...is a better outcome than I thought we'd get.
K: What'd you-You know what? Not even gonna ask. I'm calling Thistle over here right away.
...
#
K: You should've seen how ANGRY I was with her, that she didn't give me what I wanted right away! She sent ALL these guards in my way, but I made myself clear that I would not stop until I was allowed to see you again!
T: Is that true, Harry?
K: What, why you askin' Harry? He KNOWS it's true as much as I KNOW it's true, right Harry?
H:...Really, we just talked it over.
K: FUH-KIN SNITCH!
T: Still, it was a pretty fun story you made there.
K: It was, wasn't it?
V: Ahem.
T: Oh. Hello.
V: Ms. Claw Mark.
T: I'm sure I can complement it by creating another.
V: That won't be necessary.
T: That's good to hear.
V: Indeed.
T: Indubitably.
K: Heh. It's the damnedest thing, seeing you two have a civil conversation.
T: Civil, he says...
V: He's always had a way with misplaced words, hasn't he?
K: Only around you, for some reason.
V: Oh, you...
T: Wow, Kindle. All these sentences and I've yet to hear you say the words "Hate" and "Mother" and "Fudge".
K: You mean "fuck".
T: You know I don't like swearing, Kindle.
V: That's good. This kingdom has enough loose lips as it is and we certainly don't need more.
T: Yeah, we need a law against swearing in this kingdom.
K: I'd sooner have a law outlawing public displays of affection before a law outlawing swears! I mean, I can't go a day without swearing at least once.
H: I wonder...
K: Hey, Harry. Speaking of swears, I don't think I've heard you swear once outside of "damn" or "screw".
V: Kindle, please, he's too refined for that nonsense...
T: Yeah, don't listen to him, Harry.
K: C'mon, swear with me! FUCK! SHIT! ASS! CUNT!
H: No, Kindle.
K: Repeat after me: UTERUS! VAGINA! TITTIES! COCK! BALLS! DILDO!
H: Uterus isn't a swear, though.
K: VORE! SCAT! YAOI! SHOTA! NIGHTMARE FUEL!
#
K: I'll stop now.
T: Finally.
V: I don't know what those last five were, but they sound rather unhealthy.
(32)
H: Hey, Kindle.
K: Heya.
H: What was it you needed me for?
K: Oh, yeah. Everyone!
H, T, and V: Hmm?
K: I want to have a big party at the Blue Oyster Pub today in celebration of the arrival and, hopefully, long-term stay of our good king! I don't care who we invite or how much money we spend, I wanna have the damn best time of my life before my life is ruined! And I wanna have it with my best friends and my closest family members! What do ya say?
T: At a pub?
H: Uhh...
V: You know I deplore alcohol, son.
K: Aw, come on, guys! You don't have to get wasted if you don't want to. That's what I'll be doing!
T: Is the pub gryphon-friendly?
K: It will be when we come in!
V: I, for one, resent this idea for multiple reasons. But if it will make you happy...
K: Whaddya say, Harry?
H: I mean, I don't drink. At all. But I'll be there if you want me to be.
K: Ha! Spoken like a true pal!
T: Don't start making out, you two.
K: That'd be an awkward threesome.
T: Kindle! Not in front of your mother!
K: Oh, relax. She's just as dirty as I am. Ain't that right, ma?
V: That, I will not disagree with. And neither will his father.
T: You people are a bunch of pervs. Is Harry the only decent one here?
K: Oh, you should hear what he thinks about dark women...
H: Why did I tell you that?
K: Absolutely crazy for them! Especially the thick ones!
H: Now, hey, I never mentioned that...
K: Ya did now! Ha!
# a different person now...
(33)
K: I was...hic...amazed with what that Feurset did with that...pineapple...
H: Yeah, that-Woah!
K: It's cool...It's cool...I'm up...Hey, Thistle...
T: Urghhh...Yeah?
K: It was...a good time, wasn't it?
T: No...
K: Oh...
T: My head's killing me...from all that yelling...and that ale...
K: Oh...Sniff...Sorry...
T: Don't start crying again...You'll make me cry...
K: I love you, Thistle...
T: I thought that was a given.
...
K: Ma?
V: Yes, son?
K:..You're a dirty, son-fuckin' bitch.
V: Verily.
# a part me kinda...sorta...pities you. You know?
V: Hmm. Well, that's a start, I suppose.
...
K: Dad?
KI: Hmmhmm...Yes, my son?
K:...
KI: Son?
K:...You're a wretched daughter-fuckin' dick.
KI: Love you, too, son.
K:...Like, really, why do I tolerate you more than mother? You're...just as horrible...
KI: Have I screwed you, too?
K: No...
KI: All right, then. Don't be bitching about it.
K: Is that...all you have to say?
KI: Were you any more gentle with them?
K: Uhh...I forget...Hey, Lily? Lilith?
#
LB: Yes, Kindle?
# I gentle with you two?
LB: Umm...No.
LA: Fuck you...You're dead ta me...All o' ya...
K: Oh...Sorry about that.
LB: But then, we kind of made up after that. Remember?
K: Oh...Right...Dad's still a dick, though.
KI: Sigh...Gonna be dealing with this, huh...
...
K: Harry?
H: Yeah.
# can't feel my wings, Harry...I can't feel...my wings...
H: You don't have any.
K: Oh...I thought I did...Thistle, you lucky bitch, give me your wings!
T: I don't love you enough to do that, my prince.
K: Heheheheheh. Oh, you cruel bird, you...
Ohhh....
...
K: Harry?
H: Have you sobered up now?
K: Nope, heheh...I gotta...I gotta give you somethin'.
H: Give me what?
K: Lemme...Lemme give ya somethin'...Hold on.
H: Where are you going?
...
H: That toy.
K: Yup. The same one ma gave me...
H: Why did you bring it here?
K: Why do ya think...heheh...You silly sally...
H: Umm...Thanks for the present, Kindle. I appreciate it.
K: That's what best friends are for, you know?...My best friend...
H: Kindle...Please don't cry again.
K: My very good, nearly one-week-old best friend...That I'll likely never see again...
H: Hey. I'll visit again. Eventually. Things get busy over where I'm at, though, so I can't do it frequently. But, I'll visit. Write to you, too.
K: Don't think you'll be able to visit. Remember? I'm a bona-fide prince now...Got responsibilities now...Things I'll need to do...I'll be too busy to spend time with you...Hey, that rhymes...
H: Oh. Shoot, that's right.
K: Yeah. Sucks, huh?
# like Jed.
#
H: Another close prince-friend of mine. Similar situation as you.
K: Shit, that's rough...I mean, at least I have a best friend to keep me company while I'm here, while you have...Gerald, was it?
H: Yeah. My gryphon mount.
K: Heh. Hey, we're like the same, aren't we? Well, not the same, but...
H: Sigh...
K:...
H:...
K:...I'm gonna miss you, man. Gonna...miss all the weird conversations we've had. And dumb stuff we did. And crazy situations we got ourselves into. And...All that.
H: I'll miss you, too.
# can't make you stay, can I?
H: Sorry. I need to return to my group.
K: That's right. Gotta...make yourself useful and such...
...
#
#
H: I hope things end up working out for you. For everyone else, too.
# you. I hope so, too.
H:...
K: I...hope so, too...
H:...
#
H: Yeah?
# payment is behind that rock...four favors...four times the payment...
H: Aww, that's too much beyond the contract amount...
# and last time I'll be able to be a frivolous spender...Go on...Take it...You don't want me to cry again, do you?
H: Never again.
#
(Day 7-34)
H:...
(Looks at a sleeping Kindle)
H: Sigh...
(Rubs Kindle's upper body gently)
# know I said it before, but...Thanks for being here for him when I couldn't.
H: Yeah.
...
H: Take good care of him, will you? Goes without saying, but...
T: I will.
(Snuggles close to Kindle)
H:...
...
H: Come on, Gerald. Let's head home.
G: Skaaa...
LB: Harry?
H: Lily?
LB: So, you're leaving now?
H: Yeah.
LB: Aww...It wasn't too long ago we became friends.
H: I hope you don't mind distant relationships.
LB: I'm used to it.
H: Heh.
LB:...I'm kinda scared now. I have no idea what'll happen once that big meeting happens.
H: Best-case, you'll all make a compromise and decide how to best manage your kingdom and yourselves. Worst-case, everyone lets their flaws get in the way and everything reverts back to how it was before I came here.
LB: We've come this far. I don't want things to go back to what they were.
H: Me, neither.
LB:...
(Walks up to Gerald)
LB: Good bye, Gerald.
G: Nghaaa...
LB: Take good care of my blanket, will you?
G: Fluuu...Uuu!
(Hugs Gerald)
LB: (Whispers)...And Harry, too...
G: Fluuneaol...
LB: And Harry?
(Hugs Harry)
LB: Take good care of Gerald.
H: I will...
(Story End)
EDIT 1: Looking back, this story seems more self-indulgent than I wanted it to be. This Harry isn't the same Harry as in his original story. This one is too exaggerated and outspoken, traits I intended for another character after being properly developed.
EDIT 2: Hmph. It was only last year that I had an odd conversation with someone involving the purpose of making a fanfiction as opposed to making an original story inspired by an already existing story. Then, I go ahead and make my first ever fanfiction. More than likely, my last.
I remember the social partner in question stating that fanfictions were made by fans to relate to the fan "first" before focusing on staying close to the source material, concerning themselves with things like keeping continuity with the original story or maintaining the personalities or assumed personalities of the characters involved (The latter, I tried to do, anyways).
So, in other words...Fanfiction is meant to be self-indulgent.
EDIT 3 (12/18/2017): Kindle was actually into guys?!?
What.
How has it taken me years to learn this?
I mean, I've seen some art, but...
Dang.
I could've added lots of fun (or awkward) situations of him hitting on Harry (or Gerald) and Harry either being too oblivious to recognize his implications or telling him straight that he's, well, straight.
Gerald would simply wreck his stuff for even trying to lay a paw on him.
(Day 5-23)
V: Ah, Mr. Montaine. There you are.
H: Queen?
V: I've come with the instruments from yesterday in the hopes that we could engage in musical affairs again today.
H: Ugh...Kindle?
K: Ohhh, whatever. Just let me lie in peace...
H: Okay, we can play again.
V: Superb! I hope you don't mind teaching my daughters as well, as they'd love to learn, too.
LA: Wait, we're actually learning? Mother, you really need to stop talking in innuendo.
LB: Hi, Harry! Oh. Hi, Kindle.
K: MMMmmm...
LB: Okay...
H: Lily?
K: ...HUH?!
LB: It's okay, Kindle! Above the waist and below the knees, right, Harry?
V, K, and LA: (Look confusingly at H)
H: Uhh, yeah, but he looks like he's trying to sleep, so maybe another time?
K: Ugh, useless brat, get off!
LB: Oh, sorry...
V: Come, now. That's no way to treat your sister, Kindle. Oh, look, she's sad now.
LB: No, I didn't mean to...
K: Ughhh, what a drag.
H: Umm, Kindle?
K: Yeah. Yeah.
LB:...
K: (Heavy sigh)...Lily?
#
(Big hug)
K: (Half-heartedly) Sorry.
LB: ...Sniff...
K: Oh, don't do that. I just woke up.
LB: Sorry, I just...wanted to make you happy for once...
...
# already make me happy, Lily.
...
K: And I don't mean that. I mean now.
...
LA: Ugh. I think I'm gonna be...Gonna be...
V: (Quietly sheds tears)
K: All right, that's enough hugs for one day. Let me sleep...
LB: Okay. I'll be sure to come back tomorrow for the next one!
H: Oh, my heart!
K: Huh? What's wrong?!?
H: I think it just...doubled in size from the amount of cuteness I just witnessed.
K: Oh, shut up...
LB and V: (Giggle)
# it over? Oh, finally.
V: What's the matter, Lilith? Does genuine affection disturb you?
LA: I should be asking you that.
V: Oh, you better expect a good backhand by the end of this session...
LA: You can't backhand what you can't catch, old hag!
V: TCH! To hell with you...Forget about her, let us begin.
H: Right. So...
...
H: Woah. Wait.
LB: Ah, so, like this?
V: Or like this?
H: Guys, be careful playing with "those" kinds of beats. Play them a certain way and you'll summon-
V: Or, like this!
H: No, wait!
G: SKAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!
H: Gerald!
(24)
V: AH! Filthy beast! I told you to keep away from my son!...Wait...
G: Nghaaaa...
LB: OH NO, OH NO, OH NO, OH PLEASE NO!
H: Friendly, Gerald! Friendly. They are friendly people, okay?
KI: What's all that screeching-Oh.
G: Skuck.
LB: DADDY! MAKE IT GO AWAY! PLEASE!
KI: Hi there. Welcome to our kingdom.
V: Welcome?!? This thing is Unblessed! Do something! Call for extra guards!
KI: Nah.
V: P-Pardon??
KI: You've been pardoned.
V: I'm in danger, you fool! Do something before-Ugh! Keep away!
G: Ngaaaaaah...
KI: I think he's taken a fancy to you.
LB: Daddy, I think he's gonna-Oh, no-He's gonna hurt mommy!
H: No, Lily, he's not gonna hurt anyone, I promise!
V: Yes, he's going to hurt mommy! And he'd better keep away if-
G: (Lick)
V: GASP! DID-DID-DID-
LB: Did the gryphon-Did it just-
KI: Oh, this should be entertaining!
V: What kind of husband are you?!? I've been assaulted-Assaulted, I tell you!-And you do nothing to help me?!?
KI: Well, it's only fair.
V: Only fa-FUCK YOU!!!
G: NGHAAAAAH!!!
V: No, not you, I mean-UGH, GET OFF OF ME!!!
LB: Harry, puh-puh-lease, tell the gryphon to go away!
H: I-I-Gerald! Gerald!
G: Skaaaaa?
H: Down, Gerald!
G: ...Ska.
V: Oh, it's crushing me!
H: NO, Gerald, I mean, down FROM her!
G: ...Ngha.
V: GET. OFF. YOU. VER-
G: (Lick)
V: ...min...
G: Nghaaa...(Continues licking)
V: Ohh...You're all monsters...All of you...(Sobs to herself)
LB: (Sobs along with her)
KI: (Slow clap that gradually increases)
H: Oh, my goodness. I'm so sorry.
KI: Don't be! This is the best entertainment I've had with this damn family in years!
G: Skuck.
KI: Skuck, indeed!
LB: Daddy, is-is-
KI: Don't you worry, Rose. Mommy is just fine.
LB: But-She's crying...
KI: Tears of joy, sweet Lily Rose! Tears of joy.
V: Ohh, bleh...You're awful...
KI: Never claimed I wasn't.
H: ...What the hell have I gotten myself into?
KI: The worst family in the entire dragon country. Pleasure to make your acquaintance.
H: Gerald...Come on, Gerald....
G: Fluuuu?
H: Come on. I need you, pal. Come on.
G: ...Fluuuuu.
V: HUH! It...It...
KI: Aww, it's over.
#
LB: Thank goodness! Are you okay, mother?
V:...
LB: Mo-Mommy?
V:...
KI: I think your mount just broke her will to live.
H: Queen Vera?
#
H: Yes?
LB: Are you okay, mommy?
V:...
...
V:...I'm gonna need a good, long bath after this...
(Looks at KI)
And I'll be needing you for a Good...Long...Talk.
KI: Oh. How romantic.
# I'm done with you, you won't be able to walk for an entire year, so you'll have no choice but to stay here.
K: Neat, now everyone GET OUT of my room!
V: YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP BEFORE I DO THE SAME TO YOU!
K:...
V: Yeah, I thought so. Now...
(Walks up to Gerald)
...You don't ever lick me until I say you can lick me, understand?
G: Nghaaaa....
V: We are leaving. Now.
KI: When did you decide to grow a pair?
V: When you decided to put yours elsewhere.
KI: Hmph. You won't last a minute.
V: And you won't last a second.
...
LB: Is it-Is it over?
H: Yeah, it is.
G: Milaaa...
LB: Gasp!
H: It's okay, Lily! He's not gonna hurt you, see? He's friendly. Right, Gerald?
G: Fluuuuu...
H: Friendly.
G: Fluuu...
H: Fluuuuu...
LB: Fluuuuu?
H: Yeah, fluuuu.
LB: Hah, that's kinda silly.
G: Fwa!
LB: Oh, he's on his belly like a dog!
G: Fwaaawaa...
H: I think he's tired now.
G: Fwaaaa...aaaa....aaa...
LB: Oh...
G: Neeaol...neeaol...
H: Shhh, quiet, Gerald...Quiet...
G: Neeaol....ooool...oool...
H: (Hums gently)
#
LB: (Quietly) ...I have a blanket he could use. Hold on...
...
LB: ...Here.
H: Thank you, Lily.
G: ...Oll...
...
H: Thank it all that's over with.
LB: It was terrifying at first, but then it was weird, and then it was terrifying, and then...I don't know.
...
LB: The way you caressed Gerald...I wish mother and father caressed me like that...And when they tried to, it was never gentle...
H:...
LB: Harry?
H: Hmm?
LB: Can I feel...what they feel like?
H: Feel what?
LB: Your hands. Can I feel them?
H: Umm, sure.
LB: Ohh...I always thought Novun hands would feel rough and hard, but they...They feel nice.
H: Like a maid's hands, Jed once said.
LB: Hm?
H: Ahem. Don't know why I remembered that...
LB: ...Harry?
H: Yes?
LB: Are there any other people out there that you're close to?
H: There are a few. Jedediah, Hakin, Gerald. Maybe Nijla and Beryn, too. And, hmm, perhaps Ahzanol as well. And Malek...
LB: They're good people like you, right?
H: Mmm, most of them.
LB: Most?
H: A few of them are mercenaries and one I barely got on good terms with again, but yeah, they're relatively good people.
LB: If they're like you, I'd love to meet them someday.
H: Oh, they're nothing like me. But I appreciate their company anyway.
LB: That's odd. How can you enjoy their company if they're nothing like you?
H: But you just answered your question.
LB: You like them because they're nothing like you? Then, how do you get along? How can you find things to relate to?
H: We're more different due to what species we are and more-or-less different due to how we act around each other.
We're often bounded together through, hmm...self-interests, favors, and social capital. And through all that, we learn to get along and relate to each other in our own ways. Since there is no one way to relate to someone.
...Sorry if I sound like an unspecific stiff or a teacher while saying this stuff. I don't know how else to explain it.
LB: It sounds kinda complicated, but I think I get it. You don't get along right away. You learn to get along, right?
H: Basically. I mean, there's more to it, but-Basically.
LB: Kinda like us, right? You learned to get along with all of us despite what you learned.
H: Ohhh, that's not even worth mentioning now. Mistakes were made, but everyone's learned from them, right?
LB: I hope so.
H: I hope so, too. Because I do like some of you guys and I don't...I don't want to stop liking you because of past mistakes.
LB: ...
H: And it wouldn't be fair to you if I always held you in a negative light for what was done amongst yourselves, but not done to me. I think that's what your father meant when I first talked to him, that I still call Kindle "friend" in spite of anything else.
LB: Da-Father said that?
H: Yeah.
LB:...
H: Your father is something else.
LB: ...He is.
(25)
LB: Ohh, he's still sleeping?
K: Mmmmm...I was.
LB: Sorry.
K: So many sorries...Mphm. Okay, I'm up.
H: Morning, Red.
LB: Good morning, brother. Oh!
(Hug)
K:....Morning, Rose.
LB: But it's not the next day yet.
K: Never promised you a hug the next day. Although, if today goes well, I might.
LB: Promise?
K: Hell no. You know how unstable everyone is here, me included.
LB: Hmph. Fair enough.
K: Sigh. I just...
H: What?
(Looks outside)
K: We really suck, don't we?
H: Huh?
K: I mean, our species really sucks. We can't breath fire, we can't fly, we can't cast spells, we struggle to walk on all twos, we just...suck.
H: I think your species is really cool.
K: Really? What is it you admire about us?
H: Well, you're really big. And you got horns. And scales. And long ears. And...
K: And?
H: Uhh, you...
K: Most of the other drakkens already have all that, and then some. Even some of the bloody kobolds can fly. We're as far away from the definition of "cool" as we can be.
# think you're really cool, Kindle.
K: Oh, shut up..I mean, thank you.
LB: You are welcome.
K: Ugh...Still getting used to this "decent brother" act...
H: You're doing well so far.
K: Am I? I honestly haven't noticed.
LB: I think if you want to get better with that, you have to talk to Lilith, too.
K: What? No! I don't want to talk to that slimy bi-I mean, I'll think about it.
LB: That's good. Because she kinda cares about you, too, Kindle.
K: Sigh...I fell for that thought before...
H: So, what do you wanna do today, Red?
K: What's with the nicknames?
H: I always give people nicknames.
K: Always?
H: Well, not always, but when I'm in a good mood, I try to think of a nickname to give someone.
K: And I'm Red?
H: Yeah.
K: ...Because I'm red?
H: Never said I was creative with them.
LB: Hey, what's my nickname?
K: It's "Nosey".
LB: Hey!
K: Heh heh.
LB: You? I'm not sure. Can't call you "Hot Pink" because I already gave Kindle a color nickname. And it doesn't sound right.
K: Indubitably.
LB: What?
K: Oh, something I heard mother say.
H:...
K: Don't look at me like that.
H: I heard your father call you "Lily Rose". Is "Rose" your middle name?
LB: No, that's just a term he gave me when I was a pup and it kinda stuck with me.
K: "Lily Rose, my dear Lily Rose! Where have you gone to, now?"
LB: Kindle?
K: "Have you gone to the forest to talk with the other flowers, Lily Rose?"
LB: Stop it, Kindle!
K: "Did the lonely fox and the one-eyed hound fight over you again, my dear Lily Rose?"
LB: You're embarrassing me...
K: Relax, I'm just giving Harry some inspiration for your nickname.
LB: That better be it...
...
K: "Lily Rose, did you release yourself in mother's chambers again?"
LB: KINDLE!
K: HahahahahHA!
LB: You're terrible...
H: Eh, when I was young, I made my fair share of mistakes with release, too.
K: Oh, but it wasn't a mistake! She was pissed that mother didn't give her a new toy, so she pissed in her room!
LB: OH MY GOODNESS, KINDLE, STOP IT!
K: But this is so much fun!
LB: AND I WASN'T MAD ABOUT THAT, I WAS MAD THAT MOTHER GOT YOU A TOY AND NOT ME!
K:...Oh, right...
LB: YOU ALWAYS...You were always the center of her attention. And I hated that...
K:...
LB: I...I really didn't like you back then, Kindle. You were a gem in her eyes. And I was just a plant.
Something to look at, to give water on occasion. But not to...
K: You didn't seem to dislike me back when we became degenerates.
LB: I did as Lilith did. Because she was my superior when mother and father weren't here. As were you.
K:...
LB: Believe me, I hated every second of it. If you only you saw the tears. But you couldn't, because you were too busy releasing your frustration on us to notice.
K: I wasn't...frustrated.
LB: Then, what were you?
K: I...I don't...
...
K: I don't know what I was! I still don't.
LB: Of course.
K:....
LB:...
K: Lily...I won't ever do anything like that to you ever again. As long as I live, I'll...
...
K: ...I'll try to be the best brother to you that I can possibly be. Okay? Because I know you aren't rotten, not like the others. And you deserve better than that, than what we did.
...
# deserve better than me...
#
LB: ...Promise?
K: I promise.
(Nuzzle heads gently)
K:...So, what do you think, Harry? A real improvement over "Thank you", wasn't it?
H: That was...That was really good of you, Red.
K: Damn straight.
(26)
H: You know...You remind me a lot of me, Kindle. Parents weren't always home, lacked meaningful relationships with siblings...
K: Yeah?
# a very great attitude...
K: Thanks.
H: And, perhaps, had my own share of desires...
K: Oh? So, tell me...
H: Oh, no.
K: What were your share of desires?
H: Oh, well, I don't really have them the same way now...
K: But what were they?
H: I dunno...Tall, dark-skinned, long, black, thick hair...
K: Ah ha! You liked 'em exotic, huh?
H: I mean, I liked light-skin, too. But not pale-skinned. Or super-skinny. Like a skeleton.
K: Skeletons kill the mood, I agree.
H: Why am I telling you this?
K: It's our way of bonding.
H: Bonding, huh?
K: It lets me know you aren't the perfect "good guy" stiff I thought you'd be when we first met.
H: Yeah, I thought you'd be like a worse Jed when I met.
K: Jed?
H: Friend of mine outside of dragon country. Socialite, energetic, upbeat...
K: I was nothing like that. Except maybe the ride, but...
H: No, right when we met. I thought you'd be somewhat like that, but pessimistic.
K: Well, you got the "pessimist" part right.
H: But I don't think the same way, just to make myself clear. I say that because I told Jed what I thought of him back when we first met and he was furious.
K: Why?
H: Because he actually treated me well when we met and I totally overlooked it.
K: Wow. You dick.
H: I...Yeah, that's fair.
K: Dark-skinned, long hair...
H: Yeah.
K: So, I take it Lily's out of the question?
H: WAS what I liked, Kindle. Was.
K: That's not a yes.
H: Not a no, either. Wait.
K: Oh, Lily!
H: That's not what I-Oh, you bastard.
K: Heheheh.
H: Laugh it up, wingless.
K: Oh, that was uncalled for and you know it.
H: Sorry I hurt your feelings, you sensitive boy, you.
K: Apology accepted. Smoothie.
(27)
KI: ...Son.
K: Father.
KI: Your mother and I...
K: Please don't.
KI: No, I demand you listen! Okay...We discussed some things and...
K: You decided to act like a real father now?
KI: Now, listen here, you little-Hmm.
To pertain to your form of dialect, I will say that I will now start acting like a real father and stay here for...longer periods of time.
K: Woah. The fuck was that good, huh?
...
KI: Godlike.
K:....
KI: No, she had me realize some things. Where I was truly needed. Convinced me that my adventures, as she called them, were in vain. And that...what I really desired...wasn't out there...
K: Good for you.
KI: Perhaps mistakes were made. Perhaps. And we cannot change that. But...we can't change yesterday or what we think tomorrow will be like. But we can change today. Atone for our wrongdoings. Not abolish them, but attempt to bring ourselves beyond them. We can't do this alone. We...need each other, whether you or I like it or not.
K: You may need me...
H: Kindle...
K: Sigh.
KI: So, I've come to ask you for your cooperation. When the time comes, we need to come together and address the issues of our kingdom and our family alike. No one will be denied. No one will be left to stand idly by as the day passes before them.
K: Father, you know I want nothing to do with politics.
KI: Neither do I. Why do you think I left? Because I didn't want to deal with that crap. But...It took some persuasion to see that I can leave no longer. I could accomplish what I needed to do and, perhaps, what I wanted, here. And it was not just your mother that made me see that.
...
KI: So, I guess you don't really don't have a say in the matter. You're royalty, after all. There are things expected of you as there are of me. And there's a reason those expectations exist, I suppose.
K: To restrict us from our own individual lives for the betterment of the kingdom?
KI: To do what no one else wants to do. But what still needs to be done.
...
K: Sure picked a helluva time to become responsible.
KI: It's not like I plan these things.
K: So, that's it, then? No more traveling the world, no more neglecting responsibilities, no more lust tales?
KI: I don't know how I'd do it myself, but that's because I won't. We will all do this.
K: All of us?
KI: All of us. I'm sure as shit not suffering alone, so I expect you be right there, beside me...Suffering with us.
#
KI: We could start today, if I really wanted to. But I'd rather not, since I've only discussed this with your mother and you. I'm about to discuss this with your sisters after I'm done here.
K: Actually discuss it?
KI: Yes. Actually discuss it.
K:...Promise me. Promise me you will actually discuss this with them. Promise me we will get together and discuss this. And promise me that this will happen, but only two days from now.
KI: Why two days?
K: In two days, Harry's contract here ends. After that...
KI: Of course.
K:...I'm gonna miss being a lazy, good-for-nothing son.
KI: Don't think I won't miss being an irresponsible, good-for-nothing father. This burns me as well as it burns you, you know.
K: Oh, I'm sure your deep in heat right now.
KI: Hey. Don't be weird.
K: Is there any other way than being weird?
KI: I guess we'll find out. In two days.
K: Promise?
KI: Promise.
#
#
K: What?
KI: I...I thought you'd be less agreeable to the idea, but-
K: Did you have that strange feeling, too?
KI: What strange feeling?
K: I dunno. The kind of feeling you hardly ever feel or the kind you've never felt in a long time?
KI: I've felt no such thing.
K: You didn't? Right...
# an odd sensation of indigestion...
...
K: Harry?
H: Yes?
K: I need you to visit my sisters' rooms in twenty minutes. Check up on Lily and, if you want, Lilith. See how they are.
H: Are you...
K: They would appreciate the company, I think.
# do, boss.
(28)
KI: Mr. Montaine?
H: I'm not interrupting, am I?
LA: I'd rather you did.
KI: And I'd rather you be less of a bitch. You came out of your mother's womb, but that doesn't mean you should act like her.
LB: Oh, hi, Harry...
H: Hey, Lily. What's wrong?
LB: Oh, just recovering from what da-father told us.
H: Oh.
LB: Still can't believe you're leaving us in two days. It was a lot of fun, but I guess we have things we need to do.
H: A part of me would love to stay a bit longer, but I have to get back to my group. A week is as long as they'll let me go on less than three standard contracts without bringing home money.
LB: And I bet you miss them, too?
# could say that.
...
H: Except maybe Udeeno. He's kinda...rough...
LA: Rough, huh?
H: I mean, he's more stern and less apologetic than the rest of my group members. And a brutal teaser.
LA: Oh, you don't like being teased, Mr. Hairy Mountains?
KI: You can outrun your mother, but you can't outrun me.
H: ...Son of a...
KI: Ignore her, Mr. Montaine, she-
H: Haha.
KI: Hmm?
H: That tease. That tease was the first thing that came up when I chose that name. And Udeeno didn't even make it.
It was friggen' Kellun. Heh.
LA: How fascinating.
H: I swear, Kellun's the only one that could do that and get away with it.
LB: Kellun? What's he...she...your friend like?
H: She's one of the more mellow kobolds I know. You could tell the world to her and she'd just smirk and take a drink out of whatever she bought at the pub that day. Not because she doesn't care, she actually listens more than we give her credit for, but that's how she better evaluates the events of our particular days.
And she also has these particular skills-
(Rambling)
And then, there's that warhammer-
(Rambling)
...and she has this fancy smoking pipe-
(Rambling)
...I mean, I don't like smoking or smokers, but I make an exception to her even though the stuff she smokes is pretty rancid in smell when you're close enough to notice it. So...Uhh...Umm...
KI: ...Mmm? Were you saying something?
LA: Zzzzzz...
LB: She sounds...just...incredible!
H: I'm sorry, was I rambling?
LB: Huh?
H: I forgot what we were originally...
LB: Oh, keep talking about your friend! Tell that story again, the one where she scared all the hoodlums in the bar away by using that one broken wine bottle! Or how she tamed that dragon with that special powder she got from the Northern Mountains!
H: Uhh...Wow, it's late now...
LB: Or how...how...yawn...
KI: You said something about a kobold and a...bone club? Was it a bone club?
H: No, it was a warhammer. Fighting vigilantes with a bone club...how silly...
KI: Mmmhmm, right. Anyways, I should be heading to my chambers now.
(Looks at Lilith)
Hope your nightmares are worse than mine...
(Looks at Lily)
I hope you have a good night's sleep, dear Lily Rose. Although, with Harry here, that shouldn't be too difficult.
LB: A good night to you, too, father.
KI: Now, then...
LB: Okay...
KI:...Huh?!?
H: This again?
LB: Mmmm.
KI: Oh, you...
(Fairly rough nuzzle)
LB: Uff!
KI: Oh, dear! I didn't mean to hurt you, sweetheart!
LB: I know, daddy...
KI: I just...tried to show you affection properly. Like your mother used to. But...
Guess I lost my way...
LB: You...yawn...lost something?
# Yeah, I may have lost something.
# think I lost something as well, but I forgot what it was. Kindle and Harry helped...yawn...jog my memory a little, but I think you can help me, too...
KI: We've all lost something, Lily. But, I think I can help you find what you lost.
# I can help you with...yawn...with...
Wait.
KI: What is it, dear?
LB: I forgot to...say goodnight to Harry...
KI: Of course. Harry?
H: Yes, my lord?
LB...Harry?...
H: Lily Rose?
(Slow hug)
LB: Good...night...
H: Good night, dear Rose.
...
H: Oh, she...
KI: Hold on. I've got her.
H:...
KI: You know, it's moments like this that make me hate myself for leaving.
H: I'd never leave at all, if I knew someone like her was who I was coming home to.
KI: I never pictured you the emotional type, Mr. Montaine.
H: It's just during the rare moments like these that I can't help but get...I dunno, sentimental.
KI: You do know. Don't say you don't.
H: Sorry, bad habit of mine.
KI: "Sorry..."
H: Sigh.
KI:...It's going to get hard a few days from now. But I suppose that's the way these things eventually end up.
H:...
KI: And I don't think I could bear to see my children in such stress, gryphon incident notwithstanding. Even Lilith, I have the smallest amount of pity for.
H:...
KI: But that's enough rambling for today, eh? I bid you good night, Mr. Montaine.
H: Right...
(Day 6-29)
H: Hey, Kindle.
K: Mmm, how's it hangin'?
H: I'm gonna take a walk around the mountain for a while if that's okay with you.
K: All right, just don't walk too long. There might be a few things I want to do before today ends.
H: Right.
...
V: Well, if it isn't Mr. Montaine.
H: Oh. Hi.
V: A wonderful day for a stroll, is it not?
H:...I'm really sorry for what happened, I-
V: Never mind that. Or rather, perish the memory entirely.
H: I tried to...Very well.
V: A lot has happened in the past week, wouldn't you say?
H: Without a doubt.
V: Secret meetings, attempted assassinations, unchaste summons....Yes, quite a lot.
H: I'd say this is probably going to end up being one of my more memorable contracts.
V: Of course, for there is no royal family as refined, as sophisticated, and as spry as our family.
H: I agree with the "spry" part.
V: Indubitably.
H: Indubitably.
V:...
H:...
V: How is my son doing?
H: He's doing well.
V: No. I mean, how is he?
H: How?
V: He shares details with you that he keeps away from me. For many reasons, I'm certain. I would appreciate if you shared such details.
H: Why don't you go talk to him?
V: Harry, if you did terrible things to your son and had them exposed to the rest of your family, would you consider it wise to talk to him right away? A mere few days after the exposure?
H: I think it'd be a difficult thing to think about, but I wouldn't have a choice but to get it over with.
V: What makes you think you wouldn't have a choice?
H: Because, in that context, he's my son. I wouldn't want my son to hate me for the rest of his life over some stupid...something. I didn't become what I became to be someone's burden, but to be a benefit.
V: I would prefer if this was some stupid thing. But it's not.
H: I know.
V: It would be foolish of me to expect someone's mercy at the hand of my...desperation. This is why I came to you, Mr. Montaine. You've been with him longer than I have this week, spoke to him more, learned about him, shared with him, comforted him...
H: I don't think I did all that, but okay.
V: Sometimes, I would watch you two talk from a distance. The expressions he makes toward you are ones I know he will never give me. And if that be so, then so be it. But, as long as you are here, could you at least inform me of his current mental condition?
H: He's just trying to get by. At least, until that meeting happens.
V: So...Same as before?
H: I mean, I think he's a little closer to Lily and his father, now. But by how much, I don't know. There are some things even he doesn't tell me.
V: At least he puts some effort into bonding with them.
H: He tries. Even if he may not want to, he tries.
# he mention me?
H: Before my third day here, he mentioned you a lot. Now, not so much.
V: I trust it was nothing positive?
H: He want on a rant at one point, but beforehand, implied that if you weren't alone here, you would be a lot happier.
V: I'm surprised he actually considered my happiness for once.
H: Hey. That's not fair.
V: Pardon?
H: What he did for you. Was that not him trying to make you happy?
V:...
H: Granted, he could've tried other ways, like not actually committing to penetration and, perhaps, preserving his semen in a container of sorts to give to you so as to not perform full intercourse...
V: Are you actually...
H: I've been desensitized, so it's cool. Anywho, you could've done this a lot better than how you went about it. Or, at least, less immorally. Did you know that semen can actually last a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 6 days? So, there's not much need for immediate ejaculation from an immediate mate if all you desire is pregnancy. Now, I don't know if your species handles that much differently than humans or if the conditions in the mountain would lessen the survival rate of...
V: I thought we were past this. For the moment, anyway.
H: Sorry, I just really wanted to say something after thinking about what I learned.
V: Have you said everything?
H: Not everything. But I don't think the rest of what I want to say is anything you don't already know. Like, it's not the scientific stuff I mentioned right now.
V: Good.
H: I mean, I already told you about inbreds, right?
V: I'm leaving now.
H: Oh, wait!
V: If you are going to continue berating me for my actions, I will leave.
H: Look, I...Can I ask you for a favor?
V: A favor?
H: I just want this one thing. Nothing else.
V: I suppose a favor is fair. You did stop my son from killing me in a blind rage and introduced to me the joys of musical instruments, albeit at the cost of my dignity...State your favor, and I will consider fulfilling it.
H: I can only do so much for Kindle, you know, considering my time left here. He's, eh, somewhat happy when I'm beside him, but I know I'm not enough. I'm just a best friend. What he wants, what would truly make him happy, is something I can't give him.
# gryphon?
H: Can you please allow Thistle free access to the mountain when I'm gone?
V:...
H: It would make Kindle happy to have her here, beside him, for as long as they want to be here. And it might garner you some respect to see you, out of everyone, allow their relationship to, well, flourish?
V: This...This is all you want?
H: That's all I want.
V: Why does it matter to you that they're together or not?
H: Because I know what it's like to feel like you're impossibly far from the closest friends and family you've ever had.
V:...
H: It's not a good feeling, not at all. And to deprive someone else of the happiness they desire-no, NEED the most, well, I think that's the worst thing you could ever do to a person.
V: So...I must be the worst queen in your eyes, if that's the case.
H: If you do this, you just might not be.
# think I deprive my son of happiness?
H: If you make him happy, it must be when I'm not around. And that doesn't count. Lust and happiness are not always coterminous, after all.
V: You have some nerve, coming into my mountain under the guise of servitude, only to take control of the hearts and minds of my kin and use them against me!
H: I am not trying to be your burden, Vera! I'm trying to be a benefit to you. And I feel like the only way I can help you is if I suggest for you to help your son by doing this. If you do this one favor...
I'll never interfere with you or your family ever again.
V: You won't come to this mountain ever again?
H: I won't. No visits and no unchaste summons. If you allow Thistle to visit here freely, I will never bother you or your kin ever again.
V: You know I could just as easily not follow through with this favor? You leave, you never visit, and neither does she.
H: You don't realize how much you're breaking that man's heart by doing this? Do you think this is just a phase? Something he'll grow out of? Even if it is, he should be the one to choose to grow out of it. And if it isn't? He should be free to love her, just as you should be free to love your husband. As you have.
And what does it matter if you don't have dragon children to lead the kingdom? I, for one, would be totally cool with knowing that my son's sons and daughters are gonna be, say, these cool-looking dragon/gryphon hybrids to rule the kingdom! I mean, isn't that the coolest thing ever? I've never even heard of that!
V:...
# point is, you can prefer a kingdom to be run by dragons only or gryphons only, but you shouldn't oppose the idea of them coming together to make something new, something different. Something with a bit of diversity. And, yeah, even diversity has its problems, but it's not lesser than anything else because of it. Nothing is perfect, after all.
V: So...
H: So...I won't make demands. I'm just saying to you: The second you go up to Kindle and tell him you'll allow Thistle here, I promise I will never return and attempt to "control" the minds of your kin again. And if you don't?
V:...
H: I won't be the one to see the end result. You will.
V:...
H: Thanks for the talk, my queen.
(30)
K: ...Why did you tell her that?
H: To see if she's as rotten as you claimed she is or if your father really did change some things with her.
K: But...
H: I see it this way: If she's still rotten, maybe you'll be able sort things out with her once and for all when that meeting comes up, and I'll be able to visit, at least.
If she's changed, you'll hopefully be able to see Thistle whenever you want and maybe, I mean "maybe", be able to have some sort of basic relationship with your mother that isn't based on pure spite. A sort of "rekindling" of lost kinship.
K: But if...I...How do you not see anything wrong with this?!?
H: I don't see anything wrong with this.
K: How...How could you tell her that so casually? Like its nothing?
H: Because, either way, you win.
K: How do I win?
H: If she doesn't comply, you'll have something extra to use to chew her out when that meeting comes. If she does, you and Thistle can be together peacefully. At least, in theory.
So either way, you win, Kindle.
K: You-IDIOT! Is that all you can think of? Winning? Is that all that matters to you?
H: All that matters to me is that you're happy, Kindle.
K:...
H: That's all that really matters.
K: Just...Shut up with that sappy stuff.
H: I will not.
K: Why do you care if I'm happy, anyways? You know I'm not a good person. I've never saved a village from bandits or Unblessed monsters, I've never donated to the poor, I've never created schools or libraries, I've never done anything beneficial for my kingdom or my family. So, why is it so damn important to you that I'm happy? And if you bring that contract up, I swear to the gods, I will tear it up!
H: Take out the contract.
#
H: Take it out.
K: Why?
H: Now, rip it apart.
K: What, no! I was just saying that-
H: Rip it, Kindle. If you think I was wrong for doing what I did, rip it. My group won't like me returning with no money, but that doesn't matter right now. Rip it.
K: But you aren't-
H: Kindle, rip it.
K: Harry, you-
H: Kindle, rip it!
K: No! I won't rip it!
H: KINDLE! RIP IT!
K: AGGGGHHH, DAMN YOU!
H: Ugh!
K: YOU-YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE, WHY DID YOU SAY THAT?!?
H: To show you I care!
That this matters to me!
That what you desire most is beyond me!
That I am minuscule compared to you and Thistle!
K: You...sniff...you fucking prick...
H: Do you understand why I did it now, Kindle? I liked hanging out with you, I did, but I am nothing compared to the two of you. What you have...It's special. Can't you see how special it is? That's something I don't have! Something I don't think I can ever have!
K: What the hell...are you talking about?
H: I...I envy you, Kindle! In spite of screwing your sisters and mother alike, in spite of you being a useless son, and in spite of you making all of the mistakes you've made...I envy you. All because you have one thing I value the most yet don't have with my group.
# best friend?
H: (Gets close, quietly)
Love.
K:...Ugh! That...That feeling.
H: What you've been feeling for those certain moments, I presume.
K: Ew, but I don't...
H: It doesn't have to be sexual, you know. To be close to someone without wanting to be extremely close to them, that's platonic.
K: The words again...
H: Do you understand what I'm trying to tell you, Kindle?
K: You claim you don't have it with your group, but how do you know what it is?
H: My old group. With them, I was able to feel it. But when they left...I had to look elsewhere. I didn't want to abandon them, but I didn't want to stop exploring this world, either. I didn't want to stop being useful. So, I found a new group. And they...Well, it's taking a while...
K: Is that why you're here? To feel it?
H: No. I'm truly here to help any way I can with the contract. And maybe I've felt a few things...But that doesn't matter. Not compared to the contract, and not compared to you.
K: But..It does matter, man. It does! Don't make stupid favors just because of me. I'm not worth that!
H: Maybe not you, but the both of you...
K: Fucking forget about us, Danny! Forget about us! I mean-Don't forget about us! I mean-Shit! I don't know anymore! I...I...
H: You need her, don't you?
K: I...
H: Call for her. I'll distract your-
#
H: Yes, I'll-
V: My son.
(31)
V: A shame you valued our past conversations as mere distractions, Mr. Montaine. And worse, you've caused so much stress to my poor son. What was that you said about burdens and benefits before?
H: He's just not taking our prior conversation well.
K: Who...Who invited you?
V: My conscious, apparently. I've a proposition just for you, my dear Kindle.
K: Don't call me dear...
V: Oh, but you are my-
K: Spill it! I'm...not in the mood to hear your nonsense.
V: Tch. Very well. As you know, our kingdom requires strong males to rule out kingdom-
K: No, it doesn't.
V: Pardon?
K: Look at me and father. We were here and we let it go to shit. You and your daughters were here and were no better than us.
V: Another one of your brooding episodes, Kindle?
K: No, I'm actually trying to make a point. We need more than just us. We need something beyond us. Not just males or dragons or bloodlines or anything like that. We need something...more.
V: What could we possibly need beyond each other?
K: Something for us to all want or need. Something we can all work toward or believe in, like a doctrine or a religion. But not exactly like that, I think...Or, I don't think...Uhh...
V: I'm not following.
K: Look, we-We need something more, is what I'm trying to say. You can't just want children to succeed us, and...I can't just want Thistle to be here whenever I get stressed out...
V: If you've something to suggest, then suggest it.
K: I...sigh...Damn it! I had it, but now, it's gone now!
H: Like a...commitment? Or a discipline?
K: Yeah, like that, but not called that. Or is it called that? Ugh, I hate thinking about this stuff!
V: It's no favored past time of mine, either, but it is necessary to discuss so long as there are those to discuss it with.
K: But what is "it"?
V: It comes in many terms. Responsibilities. Duties. Commitments, as your stress-inducing friend has said.
K: Things beyond our common perceptions of "rules" or "expectations". But, aren't they exactly that? We need something beyond our current rules, beyond our traditions. Something more. Something new.
V: Why break traditions that have maintained our kingdom for so long?
K: For how long? We've been here for a few centuries at most, but how long until our old rules become too old to adapt to our ever-changing country? They've already become old, if anything.
V: They have not become old, our siblings have simply become too young.
K: The balance of the world is changing, and we're almost completely oblivious to it. Mother, have you heard of the mixed marriages in the other parts of Echlonvale? Or the machine beasts the mages have made? Or the tale of the kobold woman with the soul-sucking flower?
H: ...I didn't know Ace got her own tale...
V: So, you have been paying attention to the events of our world?
K: Sometimes. I mean, all that change...It keeps me up at night. Sad that my only form of participation in that change is a relationship with the best gryphon friend I've ever had...Maybe rivaled with another particular friend...
V: So...Change? You want change to occur in our family?
K: If it wasn't obvious. I mean...Yeah. That's what I want. No more redundant, spiteful crap between all of us, no more spying on each other, no more forced distractions, just...I want things to change now.
# want a family.
K: No. I already have that. I want a slightly less messed-up family. I want to see Lily's smile again. I want to introduce Thistle to father and hear them exchange stories about each other. I want Lilith to stop acting as fucked up as I used to be. I want Harry to visit us from time to time, keep things a little more interesting or chaotic. And I want...
V: Yes, my son?
# want you to admit you were wrong. Even if you don't believe you were.
V: Admit I was wrong about...
K: Just say it to me. Lie to me. Whatever. That's what I want. It won't make me forgive everything, but I think it would be a good start at getting to the thing beyond us.
V: Is that all?
K: I'm a simpler person than you give me credit for.
V: Simple, he says...
K: Sigh. So...
V: I will not apologize.
# I have to get the spear out again?
V: Which one?
K: Oh, my god...
V: The long, impressive one or the other long one?
K: THAT'S IT! Out, now!
V: Heheheh! Oh, but I jest, my son! I jest!
K: Go be a fucking clown somewhere else, yeah? And not in front of friggen' Harry! Right when I'm trying to be serious, too...
V: I won't apologize. Not here.
K: What?
V: When we all meet. Tomorrow.
K: Is that a promise or are you screwing with me again?
V: It's a promise.
#
V: My pride and reputation are on the line, but seeing as they've already been tainted not too long ago, I won't have much to lose now. So, yes. Really.
K:...Okay, then.
V: And Kindle?
K: What?
# the feathered beast must be here, promise me you'll clean up after her, will you?
K: YOU FU...She can clean up after herself.
V: So, she's well trained? There may be hope for her after all.
K: Lady, you're really pushing it.
V: Harry, did you hear that?
H: I heard.
K: Damn it...
V: We'll be expecting frequent visits from you after the completion of your contract. So, don't forget us right away when you leave dragon country.
H: I wouldn't be able to forget even if I tried.
V: Quaint. After all, who could forget such a beautiful queen?
K: That's one way of putting it.
V: Well, how would you put it?
K: Don't think I should say. It'd ruin this wondrous moment between us.
V: Indeed.
...
# the fuck did you do that?
H: Manipulation. I think.
K: You mean, you don't even know?
H: Looks like she has changed a bit.
K: I...have a new respect for my father now, if he could do that. Actually, ew, forget I said anything.
H: So. You're on slightly better terms with your mother now, your girlfriend is now tolerable to her, and you actually want to become involved with your kingdom now. This...is a better outcome than I thought we'd get.
K: What'd you-You know what? Not even gonna ask. I'm calling Thistle over here right away.
...
#
K: You should've seen how ANGRY I was with her, that she didn't give me what I wanted right away! She sent ALL these guards in my way, but I made myself clear that I would not stop until I was allowed to see you again!
T: Is that true, Harry?
K: What, why you askin' Harry? He KNOWS it's true as much as I KNOW it's true, right Harry?
H:...Really, we just talked it over.
K: FUH-KIN SNITCH!
T: Still, it was a pretty fun story you made there.
K: It was, wasn't it?
V: Ahem.
T: Oh. Hello.
V: Ms. Claw Mark.
T: I'm sure I can complement it by creating another.
V: That won't be necessary.
T: That's good to hear.
V: Indeed.
T: Indubitably.
K: Heh. It's the damnedest thing, seeing you two have a civil conversation.
T: Civil, he says...
V: He's always had a way with misplaced words, hasn't he?
K: Only around you, for some reason.
V: Oh, you...
T: Wow, Kindle. All these sentences and I've yet to hear you say the words "Hate" and "Mother" and "Fudge".
K: You mean "fuck".
T: You know I don't like swearing, Kindle.
V: That's good. This kingdom has enough loose lips as it is and we certainly don't need more.
T: Yeah, we need a law against swearing in this kingdom.
K: I'd sooner have a law outlawing public displays of affection before a law outlawing swears! I mean, I can't go a day without swearing at least once.
H: I wonder...
K: Hey, Harry. Speaking of swears, I don't think I've heard you swear once outside of "damn" or "screw".
V: Kindle, please, he's too refined for that nonsense...
T: Yeah, don't listen to him, Harry.
K: C'mon, swear with me! FUCK! SHIT! ASS! CUNT!
H: No, Kindle.
K: Repeat after me: UTERUS! VAGINA! TITTIES! COCK! BALLS! DILDO!
H: Uterus isn't a swear, though.
K: VORE! SCAT! YAOI! SHOTA! NIGHTMARE FUEL!
#
K: I'll stop now.
T: Finally.
V: I don't know what those last five were, but they sound rather unhealthy.
(32)
H: Hey, Kindle.
K: Heya.
H: What was it you needed me for?
K: Oh, yeah. Everyone!
H, T, and V: Hmm?
K: I want to have a big party at the Blue Oyster Pub today in celebration of the arrival and, hopefully, long-term stay of our good king! I don't care who we invite or how much money we spend, I wanna have the damn best time of my life before my life is ruined! And I wanna have it with my best friends and my closest family members! What do ya say?
T: At a pub?
H: Uhh...
V: You know I deplore alcohol, son.
K: Aw, come on, guys! You don't have to get wasted if you don't want to. That's what I'll be doing!
T: Is the pub gryphon-friendly?
K: It will be when we come in!
V: I, for one, resent this idea for multiple reasons. But if it will make you happy...
K: Whaddya say, Harry?
H: I mean, I don't drink. At all. But I'll be there if you want me to be.
K: Ha! Spoken like a true pal!
T: Don't start making out, you two.
K: That'd be an awkward threesome.
T: Kindle! Not in front of your mother!
K: Oh, relax. She's just as dirty as I am. Ain't that right, ma?
V: That, I will not disagree with. And neither will his father.
T: You people are a bunch of pervs. Is Harry the only decent one here?
K: Oh, you should hear what he thinks about dark women...
H: Why did I tell you that?
K: Absolutely crazy for them! Especially the thick ones!
H: Now, hey, I never mentioned that...
K: Ya did now! Ha!
# a different person now...
(33)
K: I was...hic...amazed with what that Feurset did with that...pineapple...
H: Yeah, that-Woah!
K: It's cool...It's cool...I'm up...Hey, Thistle...
T: Urghhh...Yeah?
K: It was...a good time, wasn't it?
T: No...
K: Oh...
T: My head's killing me...from all that yelling...and that ale...
K: Oh...Sniff...Sorry...
T: Don't start crying again...You'll make me cry...
K: I love you, Thistle...
T: I thought that was a given.
...
K: Ma?
V: Yes, son?
K:..You're a dirty, son-fuckin' bitch.
V: Verily.
# a part me kinda...sorta...pities you. You know?
V: Hmm. Well, that's a start, I suppose.
...
K: Dad?
KI: Hmmhmm...Yes, my son?
K:...
KI: Son?
K:...You're a wretched daughter-fuckin' dick.
KI: Love you, too, son.
K:...Like, really, why do I tolerate you more than mother? You're...just as horrible...
KI: Have I screwed you, too?
K: No...
KI: All right, then. Don't be bitching about it.
K: Is that...all you have to say?
KI: Were you any more gentle with them?
K: Uhh...I forget...Hey, Lily? Lilith?
#
LB: Yes, Kindle?
# I gentle with you two?
LB: Umm...No.
LA: Fuck you...You're dead ta me...All o' ya...
K: Oh...Sorry about that.
LB: But then, we kind of made up after that. Remember?
K: Oh...Right...Dad's still a dick, though.
KI: Sigh...Gonna be dealing with this, huh...
...
K: Harry?
H: Yeah.
# can't feel my wings, Harry...I can't feel...my wings...
H: You don't have any.
K: Oh...I thought I did...Thistle, you lucky bitch, give me your wings!
T: I don't love you enough to do that, my prince.
K: Heheheheheh. Oh, you cruel bird, you...
Ohhh....
...
K: Harry?
H: Have you sobered up now?
K: Nope, heheh...I gotta...I gotta give you somethin'.
H: Give me what?
K: Lemme...Lemme give ya somethin'...Hold on.
H: Where are you going?
...
H: That toy.
K: Yup. The same one ma gave me...
H: Why did you bring it here?
K: Why do ya think...heheh...You silly sally...
H: Umm...Thanks for the present, Kindle. I appreciate it.
K: That's what best friends are for, you know?...My best friend...
H: Kindle...Please don't cry again.
K: My very good, nearly one-week-old best friend...That I'll likely never see again...
H: Hey. I'll visit again. Eventually. Things get busy over where I'm at, though, so I can't do it frequently. But, I'll visit. Write to you, too.
K: Don't think you'll be able to visit. Remember? I'm a bona-fide prince now...Got responsibilities now...Things I'll need to do...I'll be too busy to spend time with you...Hey, that rhymes...
H: Oh. Shoot, that's right.
K: Yeah. Sucks, huh?
# like Jed.
#
H: Another close prince-friend of mine. Similar situation as you.
K: Shit, that's rough...I mean, at least I have a best friend to keep me company while I'm here, while you have...Gerald, was it?
H: Yeah. My gryphon mount.
K: Heh. Hey, we're like the same, aren't we? Well, not the same, but...
H: Sigh...
K:...
H:...
K:...I'm gonna miss you, man. Gonna...miss all the weird conversations we've had. And dumb stuff we did. And crazy situations we got ourselves into. And...All that.
H: I'll miss you, too.
# can't make you stay, can I?
H: Sorry. I need to return to my group.
K: That's right. Gotta...make yourself useful and such...
...
#
#
H: I hope things end up working out for you. For everyone else, too.
# you. I hope so, too.
H:...
K: I...hope so, too...
H:...
#
H: Yeah?
# payment is behind that rock...four favors...four times the payment...
H: Aww, that's too much beyond the contract amount...
# and last time I'll be able to be a frivolous spender...Go on...Take it...You don't want me to cry again, do you?
H: Never again.
#
(Day 7-34)
H:...
(Looks at a sleeping Kindle)
H: Sigh...
(Rubs Kindle's upper body gently)
# know I said it before, but...Thanks for being here for him when I couldn't.
H: Yeah.
...
H: Take good care of him, will you? Goes without saying, but...
T: I will.
(Snuggles close to Kindle)
H:...
...
H: Come on, Gerald. Let's head home.
G: Skaaa...
LB: Harry?
H: Lily?
LB: So, you're leaving now?
H: Yeah.
LB: Aww...It wasn't too long ago we became friends.
H: I hope you don't mind distant relationships.
LB: I'm used to it.
H: Heh.
LB:...I'm kinda scared now. I have no idea what'll happen once that big meeting happens.
H: Best-case, you'll all make a compromise and decide how to best manage your kingdom and yourselves. Worst-case, everyone lets their flaws get in the way and everything reverts back to how it was before I came here.
LB: We've come this far. I don't want things to go back to what they were.
H: Me, neither.
LB:...
(Walks up to Gerald)
LB: Good bye, Gerald.
G: Nghaaa...
LB: Take good care of my blanket, will you?
G: Fluuu...Uuu!
(Hugs Gerald)
LB: (Whispers)...And Harry, too...
G: Fluuneaol...
LB: And Harry?
(Hugs Harry)
LB: Take good care of Gerald.
H: I will...
(Story End)
EDIT 1: Looking back, this story seems more self-indulgent than I wanted it to be. This Harry isn't the same Harry as in his original story. This one is too exaggerated and outspoken, traits I intended for another character after being properly developed.
EDIT 2: Hmph. It was only last year that I had an odd conversation with someone involving the purpose of making a fanfiction as opposed to making an original story inspired by an already existing story. Then, I go ahead and make my first ever fanfiction. More than likely, my last.
I remember the social partner in question stating that fanfictions were made by fans to relate to the fan "first" before focusing on staying close to the source material, concerning themselves with things like keeping continuity with the original story or maintaining the personalities or assumed personalities of the characters involved (The latter, I tried to do, anyways).
So, in other words...Fanfiction is meant to be self-indulgent.
EDIT 3 (12/18/2017): Kindle was actually into guys?!?
What.
How has it taken me years to learn this?
I mean, I've seen some art, but...
Dang.
I could've added lots of fun (or awkward) situations of him hitting on Harry (or Gerald) and Harry either being too oblivious to recognize his implications or telling him straight that he's, well, straight.
Gerald would simply wreck his stuff for even trying to lay a paw on him.
