Don't worry, it's on the house! @innkeeper-official - Tumblr Blog

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

Right. Whatever is going on with her, it seems to be changing a lot. Practically every day, really. Is this really a conversation we have to have so early in the morning, though? We haven't even had breakfast yet. Or talked about... last night.

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

As someone who was once the King's favorite Choir Boy, I do understand pressure. But finding joy is what makes life worthwhile. You have to live for yourself, because, at the end of the day, that's who you're stuck with.

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

The Mysterious Night Barber. He is the one that made me into the marvelous Minstrel you know today! My life was stressing me out so much that I just wanted to leave it all behind. But I felt like, wherever I went, I could never be anything more than a Choir Boy. I couldn't leave my parents, my King.

He changed my whole perspective with just seven words, "do you want to live or die?" He helped me realize that what I had been doing before wasn't really living, and if I didn't commit myself to living life to the fullest, I'd die full of regrets.

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

(After Minstrel left the bedroom, there was some conversation that could be heard from the main room for a few minutes, before Minstrel came back in carrying a drunk Mutant in her arms. Its mouth actually was on its face this time, if a little askew)

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

Well, I don't have another ball for you.

Good, because I hate those instincts.

(There was a knock at the door, and Innkeeper sunk deeper into the bed due to her headache.)

I'll handle this. You just... keep enjoying Mutant's company.

(Minstrel got up to answer the door.)

[At the door stood Cerenovus, holding a box of herbal tea. She looked kind of embarrassed.]

I found this at the inn’s doorstep. I was almost tempted to keep it, but Innkeeper’s suffering enough, is she not?

Oh, I see. Well, thank you for your honesty! I will see to it that she receives this. You made the right choice, I'm sure you would have regretted stealing from her on her birthday.

It was her… ok… now I really feel like an asshole even though I did the right thing. I’d have probably cleaned up and celebrated if I knew. She is practically the heart of this town, and she isn’t a Mayor!

Don't worry, Mutant and I made sure sue had a good birthday...

I bought her cupcakes!

Awww, isn’t that nice?

Why thank you! So, you're not feeling sick anymore?

Nope! It’s honestly nice to get out of that kinda depressing thing for once.

Wow, you seemed so sick before, how did you recover so quickly? You must tell me your secret, hon.

…The Barista helped me.

Ah yes, they can cure what ails almost anyone... well, I will say that you look much better now that you're healthy.

Oh, why thank you! Now, would you like me to get out of your hair? We might see each other again in a… um… time. Yeah, time.

Oh, are you busy? I'd be happy to invite you in, if you have a moment.

(Minstrel flashed a charming smile)

…No. I mean, not now.

No, you're not busy, or no you can't come in?

No, I’m not busy. My art motivation has basically ground to a halt.

Ah! Now, that is a true tragedy. Do come in, perhaps I can help you with that, as I am no stranger to creative struggles.

(Minstrel opened the door wider and stepped inside)

I’d really appreciate it. Unfortunately, I had to do some farm work for one of the Barista’s friends so I can get better, so please excuse me if I’m bringing that… kinda dirty atmosphere in here. Like I implied, I haven’t had a lot of time to clean up.

Oh, if you'd like to go clean up, I wouldn't mind you using my bathroom.

Well… I think it’s a little weird, to go and use someone else’s bathroom… I will even say that it could have been a lot worse. Kinda helped that I was just doing the small things, like feeding the horses and whatnot.

Well, to tell the truth, I have a recent interest in keeping my apartment hay free...

…I get it. I’ll try to stay away from her, alright? I know she’s allergic.

You... know? I didn't think the two of you spoke all that much...

Oh, information does this little thing called “spreading.” You can learn stuff from someone if someone else talks about them!

Fascinating. I shall have to learn more about this novel phenomenon! I'm certain that my story ballads will benefit from it.

It’s crazy, right? Absolutely baffling, is it not?

[While Cerenovus was being sarcastic before, she’s now genuinely being playful.]

Indeed. Where did you hear of such a thing? The Gossip Institute?

Well, Noble was looking into the prank at the inn due to Tinker telling him about it while he was mad, and he thinks Pixie did it… long story short, Tinker was the one who started spreading the info.

Tinker? I'm surprised that they'd be able to get much info out, what with them dying all the time. But, I suppose strange things happen in Ravenswood Bluff

It seems like sometimes the gods let her off easy.

Hm. And maybe they deserve it... though I wish the gods would let Mutant off easy...

…Me too. I kinda wonder what they look like under that cloak of theirs.

You might get to see that later today... I myself have seen them and it is... interesting!

Oh! Now let’s say, on a scale of one to ten, how different are they from a normal person?

Normal is... that's kind of a hard thing to put into numbers. They're still a person, you know, just... very different. They may not be... my type, but I'm glad that they make Innkeeper happy. And I'd even call them a friend!

So… a 5 or 6, I’m assuming? Pretty interesting…

They have a tail and three eyes, for one thing.

Oooh… that really is interesting!

Yes, and every day their mouth seems to be in a different place on their body.

…Wait, how the hell does that work?

How does any of this work, really? I've made my peace with the supernatural, in a world with demons, pixies, and more...

Fair enough. I’m surprised that you haven’t gone mad already, considering the bullshit that keeps happening. But I guess I don’t know you three too well.

I think it just makes for good stories! There's plenty of things we don't know in this world, and that just leaves things more magical! And yeah, a lot of crazy things happen, but I just take them as I come and keep trying to just enjoy life!

…How interesting. You’re quite the optimist.

It's not that I just believe everything will be fine, it's that I know I have the power to control my life and my happiness! It's a lovely way to live.

…Good for you. Good for you.

[There were hints of envy in Cerenovus’s voice.]

Anyone can do it, really. I don't know why more people don't. So caught up in ideas of shame and obligation, I suppose...

Anyway, where are my manners? Can I get you anything? Water, wine, bread? Ooh, I have fruit now too!

…Maybe just some bread and water. I don’t want to get sick again.

Fair enough! I'll get that for you!

(Minstrel went and got Cerenovus those things)

Here ya go!

Thank you.

[Cerenovus still looked a little envious of Minstrel, even after she started to make herself at home.]

You know, I would think an Artist like yourself would have no trouble appreciating life. Each painting is like a love letter to the subject, is it not?

Yeah, but again, I’ve lost motivation.

Well, what have you been trying to paint?

I don’t know anymore. One thing happens and the next thing I know, the town has to deal with whatever’s going on. Not to mention that I’ve kinda run out of things to paint.

Run out? Impossible! There is so much beauty in the world. What kinda of things do you usually paint? Landscapes? Still lives? figures?

Well, I usually paint landscapes. Occasionally I do more abstract stuff, but it gets messy after a while.

Well, I might know a place that would be lovely to paint. Perhaps I can show you it sometime...

That’d be nice.

Wonderful! Say, a lot has been happening to you lately, huh?

Yeah. First it was the cat thing, then the positivity, then the sickness, and now… I keep fucking up my time estimates!

Oh, wow, that is a lot... what do you think could be causing this? The Amnesiac? A Bootlegger?

…I have no fucking clue, but maybe we should… well, try to talk to that Amnesiac someday. When they’re here. And maybe also when they guess their ability.

That is something to look out for indeed...

Maybe in around 2 years, that is!

[Innkeeper could be heard groaning from the bedroom.]

Yes, Amnesiac does seem to have not been around for a while...

Who knows? Maybe those demons got them. I don’t know! Plus… can that bitch over there shut up? Is she sick too or something?

(Minstrel's expression shifted immediately)

You don't get to talk about my partner that way.

Woah there, I wasn’t being serious! I was just asking if there was anything wrong with her!

You can joke around and still use kind words. I will not tolerate insults to me and my friends.

I got it! I got it! Geez, so much for positivity…

It's much easier to be positive when you surround yourself with nice people!

Now, I recall that you've been staying in the shack Mutant used to live in... and I'm sure they're more than happy to keep living at the Inn, but I think they might have left some stuff there...

Oh, I see. You wanna rummage through there? I guess I’ll give you permission.

Oh, I was just- hm. Yes, that sounds good, then! I'll have Mutant tell me what they left there, and I can just go and get it!

Ok, ok. I’ll just make myself at home, then.

Of course, just one moment, I have to check on something.

(Minstrel went back to the bedroom)

(Innkeeper was still at bed, still pretty hungover.)

Who… who was that?

Honestly, I'm surprised that you didn't hear through the walls, they're not that thick... anyway, it was Cerenovus.

Well, did you get some answers from her? Maybe?

(Minstrel looked thoughtful, reciting what she had learned)

Yes. I learned that she is currently struggling to estimate times, and before that, as we know, was the sickness. Before that it was what she referred to as "positivity", and then the first thing was "The cat thing." That's four...

She also gave me permission to go to the shack she's staying in so I could get Mutant's stuff, and I might as well look around a little while I'm there.

It's not exactly all the answers, but it's something!

Ow… Ok, four effects… and she… she gave you permission to look. That’s… that’s good. But the current effect… it probably won’t slow her down at all… I mean, time’s more of the… the Clockmaker’s thing…

(Minstrel started rambling, just trying to remember as much as possible and wanting to do right by Innkeeper)

Oh, I should also say that she came by with some tea that she said was left at the Inn for you. She said she had considered stealing but then felt bad. Also, she already knew about your hay allergy. When I asked her, she seemed a bit defensive, but then backed down to saying that she found out because of something Tinker said.

Interestingly, she also claimed that her sickness going away was because of the Barista, and she had to do some farm work to gain their favor. That doesn't entirely make sense, seeing as how one would think doing manual labor like that would be harder when sick, and... all the other strange things that happened to them seemed to go away on their own in about a day...

So… she’s 100% the prankster, then. Got it. She’s probably making up stories to excuse whatever the hell is up with her right at this particular moment.

It's gotta be!

Ow… ow… easy on the noise… I’ll make sure my guard’s up.

Alright, I'll head over to the shack and see what I can find.

Sounds good. I’ll keep this little Mutant company as well.

Yeyy...

(Innkeeper hugged Mutant.)

We’ll be safe.

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

Well, I don't have another ball for you.

Good, because I hate those instincts.

(There was a knock at the door, and Innkeeper sunk deeper into the bed due to her headache.)

I'll handle this. You just... keep enjoying Mutant's company.

(Minstrel got up to answer the door.)

[At the door stood Cerenovus, holding a box of herbal tea. She looked kind of embarrassed.]

I found this at the inn’s doorstep. I was almost tempted to keep it, but Innkeeper’s suffering enough, is she not?

Oh, I see. Well, thank you for your honesty! I will see to it that she receives this. You made the right choice, I'm sure you would have regretted stealing from her on her birthday.

Don't worry, Mutant and I made sure sue had a good birthday...

I bought her cupcakes!

Awww, isn’t that nice?

Why thank you! So, you're not feeling sick anymore?

Nope! It’s honestly nice to get out of that kinda depressing thing for once.

Wow, you seemed so sick before, how did you recover so quickly? You must tell me your secret, hon.

…The Barista helped me.

Ah yes, they can cure what ails almost anyone... well, I will say that you look much better now that you're healthy.

Oh, why thank you! Now, would you like me to get out of your hair? We might see each other again in a… um… time. Yeah, time.

Oh, are you busy? I'd be happy to invite you in, if you have a moment.

(Minstrel flashed a charming smile)

…No. I mean, not now.

No, you're not busy, or no you can't come in?

No, I’m not busy. My art motivation has basically ground to a halt.

Ah! Now, that is a true tragedy. Do come in, perhaps I can help you with that, as I am no stranger to creative struggles.

(Minstrel opened the door wider and stepped inside)

Oh, if you'd like to go clean up, I wouldn't mind you using my bathroom.

Well, to tell the truth, I have a recent interest in keeping my apartment hay free...

…I get it. I’ll try to stay away from her, alright? I know she’s allergic.

You... know? I didn't think the two of you spoke all that much...

Oh, information does this little thing called “spreading.” You can learn stuff from someone if someone else talks about them!

Fascinating. I shall have to learn more about this novel phenomenon! I'm certain that my story ballads will benefit from it.

It’s crazy, right? Absolutely baffling, is it not?

[While Cerenovus was being sarcastic before, she’s now genuinely being playful.]

Indeed. Where did you hear of such a thing? The Gossip Institute?

Tinker? I'm surprised that they'd be able to get much info out, what with them dying all the time. But, I suppose strange things happen in Ravenswood Bluff

It seems like sometimes the gods let her off easy.

Hm. And maybe they deserve it... though I wish the gods would let Mutant off easy...

…Me too. I kinda wonder what they look like under that cloak of theirs.

You might get to see that later today... I myself have seen them and it is... interesting!

Oh! Now let’s say, on a scale of one to ten, how different are they from a normal person?

So… a 5 or 6, I’m assuming? Pretty interesting…

They have a tail and three eyes, for one thing.

Oooh… that really is interesting!

Yes, and every day their mouth seems to be in a different place on their body.

…Wait, how the hell does that work?

How does any of this work, really? I've made my peace with the supernatural, in a world with demons, pixies, and more...

Fair enough. I’m surprised that you haven’t gone mad already, considering the bullshit that keeps happening. But I guess I don’t know you three too well.

…How interesting. You’re quite the optimist.

It's not that I just believe everything will be fine, it's that I know I have the power to control my life and my happiness! It's a lovely way to live.

…Good for you. Good for you.

[There were hints of envy in Cerenovus’s voice.]

Anyone can do it, really. I don't know why more people don't. So caught up in ideas of shame and obligation, I suppose...

Anyway, where are my manners? Can I get you anything? Water, wine, bread? Ooh, I have fruit now too!

…Maybe just some bread and water. I don’t want to get sick again.

Fair enough! I'll get that for you!

(Minstrel went and got Cerenovus those things)

Here ya go!

Thank you.

[Cerenovus still looked a little envious of Minstrel, even after she started to make herself at home.]

You know, I would think an Artist like yourself would have no trouble appreciating life. Each painting is like a love letter to the subject, is it not?

Yeah, but again, I’ve lost motivation.

Well, what have you been trying to paint?

I don’t know anymore. One thing happens and the next thing I know, the town has to deal with whatever’s going on. Not to mention that I’ve kinda run out of things to paint.

Run out? Impossible! There is so much beauty in the world. What kinda of things do you usually paint? Landscapes? Still lives? figures?

Well, I usually paint landscapes. Occasionally I do more abstract stuff, but it gets messy after a while.

Well, I might know a place that would be lovely to paint. Perhaps I can show you it sometime...

That’d be nice.

Wonderful! Say, a lot has been happening to you lately, huh?

Yeah. First it was the cat thing, then the positivity, then the sickness, and now… I keep fucking up my time estimates!

Oh, wow, that is a lot... what do you think could be causing this? The Amnesiac? A Bootlegger?

…I have no fucking clue, but maybe we should… well, try to talk to that Amnesiac someday. When they’re here. And maybe also when they guess their ability.

That is something to look out for indeed...

Maybe in around 2 years, that is!

[Innkeeper could be heard groaning from the bedroom.]

Yes, Amnesiac does seem to have not been around for a while...

Who knows? Maybe those demons got them. I don’t know! Plus… can that bitch over there shut up? Is she sick too or something?

(Minstrel's expression shifted immediately)

You don't get to talk about my partner that way.

Woah there, I wasn’t being serious! I was just asking if there was anything wrong with her!

You can joke around and still use kind words. I will not tolerate insults to me and my friends.

I got it! I got it! Geez, so much for positivity…

It's much easier to be positive when you surround yourself with nice people!

Now, I recall that you've been staying in the shack Mutant used to live in... and I'm sure they're more than happy to keep living at the Inn, but I think they might have left some stuff there...

Oh, I see. You wanna rummage through there? I guess I’ll give you permission.

Oh, I was just- hm. Yes, that sounds good, then! I'll have Mutant tell me what they left there, and I can just go and get it!

Ok, ok. I’ll just make myself at home, then.

Of course, just one moment, I have to check on something.

(Minstrel went back to the bedroom)

(Innkeeper was still at bed, still pretty hungover.)

Who… who was that?

Honestly, I'm surprised that you didn't hear through the walls, they're not that thick... anyway, it was Cerenovus.

Well, did you get some answers from her? Maybe?

(Minstrel looked thoughtful, reciting what she had learned)

She also gave me permission to go to the shack she's staying in so I could get Mutant's stuff, and I might as well look around a little while I'm there.

It's not exactly all the answers, but it's something!

(Minstrel started rambling, just trying to remember as much as possible and wanting to do right by Innkeeper)

So… she’s 100% the prankster, then. Got it. She’s probably making up stories to excuse whatever the hell is up with her right at this particular moment.

It's gotta be!

Ow… ow… easy on the noise… I’ll make sure my guard’s up.

Alright, I'll head over to the shack and see what I can find.

Sounds good. I’ll keep this little Mutant company as well.

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

Well, I don't have another ball for you.

Good, because I hate those instincts.

(There was a knock at the door, and Innkeeper sunk deeper into the bed due to her headache.)

I'll handle this. You just... keep enjoying Mutant's company.

(Minstrel got up to answer the door.)

[At the door stood Cerenovus, holding a box of herbal tea. She looked kind of embarrassed.]

I found this at the inn’s doorstep. I was almost tempted to keep it, but Innkeeper’s suffering enough, is she not?

Oh, I see. Well, thank you for your honesty! I will see to it that she receives this. You made the right choice, I'm sure you would have regretted stealing from her on her birthday.

Don't worry, Mutant and I made sure sue had a good birthday...

I bought her cupcakes!

Awww, isn’t that nice?

Why thank you! So, you're not feeling sick anymore?

Nope! It’s honestly nice to get out of that kinda depressing thing for once.

Wow, you seemed so sick before, how did you recover so quickly? You must tell me your secret, hon.

…The Barista helped me.

Ah yes, they can cure what ails almost anyone... well, I will say that you look much better now that you're healthy.

Oh, why thank you! Now, would you like me to get out of your hair? We might see each other again in a… um… time. Yeah, time.

Oh, are you busy? I'd be happy to invite you in, if you have a moment.

(Minstrel flashed a charming smile)

…No. I mean, not now.

No, you're not busy, or no you can't come in?

No, I’m not busy. My art motivation has basically ground to a halt.

Ah! Now, that is a true tragedy. Do come in, perhaps I can help you with that, as I am no stranger to creative struggles.

(Minstrel opened the door wider and stepped inside)

Oh, if you'd like to go clean up, I wouldn't mind you using my bathroom.

Well, to tell the truth, I have a recent interest in keeping my apartment hay free...

…I get it. I’ll try to stay away from her, alright? I know she’s allergic.

You... know? I didn't think the two of you spoke all that much...

Oh, information does this little thing called “spreading.” You can learn stuff from someone if someone else talks about them!

Fascinating. I shall have to learn more about this novel phenomenon! I'm certain that my story ballads will benefit from it.

It’s crazy, right? Absolutely baffling, is it not?

[While Cerenovus was being sarcastic before, she’s now genuinely being playful.]

Indeed. Where did you hear of such a thing? The Gossip Institute?

Tinker? I'm surprised that they'd be able to get much info out, what with them dying all the time. But, I suppose strange things happen in Ravenswood Bluff

It seems like sometimes the gods let her off easy.

Hm. And maybe they deserve it... though I wish the gods would let Mutant off easy...

…Me too. I kinda wonder what they look like under that cloak of theirs.

You might get to see that later today... I myself have seen them and it is... interesting!

Oh! Now let’s say, on a scale of one to ten, how different are they from a normal person?

So… a 5 or 6, I’m assuming? Pretty interesting…

They have a tail and three eyes, for one thing.

Oooh… that really is interesting!

Yes, and every day their mouth seems to be in a different place on their body.

…Wait, how the hell does that work?

How does any of this work, really? I've made my peace with the supernatural, in a world with demons, pixies, and more...

Fair enough. I’m surprised that you haven’t gone mad already, considering the bullshit that keeps happening. But I guess I don’t know you three too well.

…How interesting. You’re quite the optimist.

It's not that I just believe everything will be fine, it's that I know I have the power to control my life and my happiness! It's a lovely way to live.

…Good for you. Good for you.

[There were hints of envy in Cerenovus’s voice.]

Anyone can do it, really. I don't know why more people don't. So caught up in ideas of shame and obligation, I suppose...

Anyway, where are my manners? Can I get you anything? Water, wine, bread? Ooh, I have fruit now too!

…Maybe just some bread and water. I don’t want to get sick again.

Fair enough! I'll get that for you!

(Minstrel went and got Cerenovus those things)

Here ya go!

Thank you.

[Cerenovus still looked a little envious of Minstrel, even after she started to make herself at home.]

You know, I would think an Artist like yourself would have no trouble appreciating life. Each painting is like a love letter to the subject, is it not?

Yeah, but again, I’ve lost motivation.

Well, what have you been trying to paint?

I don’t know anymore. One thing happens and the next thing I know, the town has to deal with whatever’s going on. Not to mention that I’ve kinda run out of things to paint.

Run out? Impossible! There is so much beauty in the world. What kinda of things do you usually paint? Landscapes? Still lives? figures?

Well, I usually paint landscapes. Occasionally I do more abstract stuff, but it gets messy after a while.

Well, I might know a place that would be lovely to paint. Perhaps I can show you it sometime...

That’d be nice.

Wonderful! Say, a lot has been happening to you lately, huh?

Yeah. First it was the cat thing, then the positivity, then the sickness, and now… I keep fucking up my time estimates!

Oh, wow, that is a lot... what do you think could be causing this? The Amnesiac? A Bootlegger?

…I have no fucking clue, but maybe we should… well, try to talk to that Amnesiac someday. When they’re here. And maybe also when they guess their ability.

That is something to look out for indeed...

Maybe in around 2 years, that is!

[Innkeeper could be heard groaning from the bedroom.]

Yes, Amnesiac does seem to have not been around for a while...

Who knows? Maybe those demons got them. I don’t know! Plus… can that bitch over there shut up? Is she sick too or something?

(Minstrel's expression shifted immediately)

You don't get to talk about my partner that way.

Woah there, I wasn’t being serious! I was just asking if there was anything wrong with her!

You can joke around and still use kind words. I will not tolerate insults to me and my friends.

I got it! I got it! Geez, so much for positivity…

It's much easier to be positive when you surround yourself with nice people!

Now, I recall that you've been staying in the shack Mutant used to live in... and I'm sure they're more than happy to keep living at the Inn, but I think they might have left some stuff there...

Oh, I see. You wanna rummage through there? I guess I’ll give you permission.

Oh, I was just- hm. Yes, that sounds good, then! I'll have Mutant tell me what they left there, and I can just go and get it!

Ok, ok. I’ll just make myself at home, then.

Of course, just one moment, I have to check on something.

(Minstrel went back to the bedroom)

(Innkeeper was still at bed, still pretty hungover.)

Who… who was that?

Honestly, I'm surprised that you didn't hear through the walls, they're not that thick... anyway, it was Cerenovus.

Well, did you get some answers from her? Maybe?

(Minstrel looked thoughtful, reciting what she had learned)

She also gave me permission to go to the shack she's staying in so I could get Mutant's stuff, and I might as well look around a little while I'm there.

It's not exactly all the answers, but it's something!

(Minstrel started rambling, just trying to remember as much as possible and wanting to do right by Innkeeper)

So… she’s 100% the prankster, then. Got it. She’s probably making up stories to excuse whatever the hell is up with her right at this particular moment.

It's gotta be!

Ow… ow… easy on the noise… I’ll make sure my guard’s up.

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

Well, I don't have another ball for you.

Good, because I hate those instincts.

(There was a knock at the door, and Innkeeper sunk deeper into the bed due to her headache.)

I'll handle this. You just... keep enjoying Mutant's company.

(Minstrel got up to answer the door.)

[At the door stood Cerenovus, holding a box of herbal tea. She looked kind of embarrassed.]

I found this at the inn’s doorstep. I was almost tempted to keep it, but Innkeeper’s suffering enough, is she not?

Oh, I see. Well, thank you for your honesty! I will see to it that she receives this. You made the right choice, I'm sure you would have regretted stealing from her on her birthday.

Don't worry, Mutant and I made sure sue had a good birthday...

I bought her cupcakes!

Awww, isn’t that nice?

Why thank you! So, you're not feeling sick anymore?

Nope! It’s honestly nice to get out of that kinda depressing thing for once.

Wow, you seemed so sick before, how did you recover so quickly? You must tell me your secret, hon.

…The Barista helped me.

Ah yes, they can cure what ails almost anyone... well, I will say that you look much better now that you're healthy.

Oh, why thank you! Now, would you like me to get out of your hair? We might see each other again in a… um… time. Yeah, time.

Oh, are you busy? I'd be happy to invite you in, if you have a moment.

(Minstrel flashed a charming smile)

…No. I mean, not now.

No, you're not busy, or no you can't come in?

No, I’m not busy. My art motivation has basically ground to a halt.

Ah! Now, that is a true tragedy. Do come in, perhaps I can help you with that, as I am no stranger to creative struggles.

(Minstrel opened the door wider and stepped inside)

Oh, if you'd like to go clean up, I wouldn't mind you using my bathroom.

Well, to tell the truth, I have a recent interest in keeping my apartment hay free...

…I get it. I’ll try to stay away from her, alright? I know she’s allergic.

You... know? I didn't think the two of you spoke all that much...

Oh, information does this little thing called “spreading.” You can learn stuff from someone if someone else talks about them!

Fascinating. I shall have to learn more about this novel phenomenon! I'm certain that my story ballads will benefit from it.

It’s crazy, right? Absolutely baffling, is it not?

[While Cerenovus was being sarcastic before, she’s now genuinely being playful.]

Indeed. Where did you hear of such a thing? The Gossip Institute?

Tinker? I'm surprised that they'd be able to get much info out, what with them dying all the time. But, I suppose strange things happen in Ravenswood Bluff

It seems like sometimes the gods let her off easy.

Hm. And maybe they deserve it... though I wish the gods would let Mutant off easy...

…Me too. I kinda wonder what they look like under that cloak of theirs.

You might get to see that later today... I myself have seen them and it is... interesting!

Oh! Now let’s say, on a scale of one to ten, how different are they from a normal person?

So… a 5 or 6, I’m assuming? Pretty interesting…

They have a tail and three eyes, for one thing.

Oooh… that really is interesting!

Yes, and every day their mouth seems to be in a different place on their body.

…Wait, how the hell does that work?

How does any of this work, really? I've made my peace with the supernatural, in a world with demons, pixies, and more...

Fair enough. I’m surprised that you haven’t gone mad already, considering the bullshit that keeps happening. But I guess I don’t know you three too well.

…How interesting. You’re quite the optimist.

It's not that I just believe everything will be fine, it's that I know I have the power to control my life and my happiness! It's a lovely way to live.

…Good for you. Good for you.

[There were hints of envy in Cerenovus’s voice.]

Anyone can do it, really. I don't know why more people don't. So caught up in ideas of shame and obligation, I suppose...

Anyway, where are my manners? Can I get you anything? Water, wine, bread? Ooh, I have fruit now too!

…Maybe just some bread and water. I don’t want to get sick again.

Fair enough! I'll get that for you!

(Minstrel went and got Cerenovus those things)

Here ya go!

Thank you.

[Cerenovus still looked a little envious of Minstrel, even after she started to make herself at home.]

You know, I would think an Artist like yourself would have no trouble appreciating life. Each painting is like a love letter to the subject, is it not?

Yeah, but again, I’ve lost motivation.

Well, what have you been trying to paint?

I don’t know anymore. One thing happens and the next thing I know, the town has to deal with whatever’s going on. Not to mention that I’ve kinda run out of things to paint.

Run out? Impossible! There is so much beauty in the world. What kinda of things do you usually paint? Landscapes? Still lives? figures?

Well, I usually paint landscapes. Occasionally I do more abstract stuff, but it gets messy after a while.

Well, I might know a place that would be lovely to paint. Perhaps I can show you it sometime...

That’d be nice.

Wonderful! Say, a lot has been happening to you lately, huh?

Yeah. First it was the cat thing, then the positivity, then the sickness, and now… I keep fucking up my time estimates!

Oh, wow, that is a lot... what do you think could be causing this? The Amnesiac? A Bootlegger?

…I have no fucking clue, but maybe we should… well, try to talk to that Amnesiac someday. When they’re here. And maybe also when they guess their ability.

That is something to look out for indeed...

Maybe in around 2 years, that is!

[Innkeeper could be heard groaning from the bedroom.]

Yes, Amnesiac does seem to have not been around for a while...

Who knows? Maybe those demons got them. I don’t know! Plus… can that bitch over there shut up? Is she sick too or something?

(Minstrel's expression shifted immediately)

You don't get to talk about my partner that way.

Woah there, I wasn’t being serious! I was just asking if there was anything wrong with her!

You can joke around and still use kind words. I will not tolerate insults to me and my friends.

I got it! I got it! Geez, so much for positivity…

It's much easier to be positive when you surround yourself with nice people!

Now, I recall that you've been staying in the shack Mutant used to live in... and I'm sure they're more than happy to keep living at the Inn, but I think they might have left some stuff there...

Oh, I see. You wanna rummage through there? I guess I’ll give you permission.

Oh, I was just- hm. Yes, that sounds good, then! I'll have Mutant tell me what they left there, and I can just go and get it!

Ok, ok. I’ll just make myself at home, then.

Of course, just one moment, I have to check on something.

(Minstrel went back to the bedroom)

(Innkeeper was still at bed, still pretty hungover.)

Who… who was that?

Honestly, I'm surprised that you didn't hear through the walls, they're not that thick... anyway, it was Cerenovus.

Well, did you get some answers from her? Maybe?

(Minstrel looked thoughtful, reciting what she had learned)

She also gave me permission to go to the shack she's staying in so I could get Mutant's stuff, and I might as well look around a little while I'm there.

It's not exactly all the answers, but it's something!

(Minstrel started rambling, just trying to remember as much as possible and wanting to do right by Innkeeper)

So… she’s 100% the prankster, then. Got it. She’s probably making up stories to excuse whatever the hell is up with her right at this particular moment.

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

Well, I don't have another ball for you.

Good, because I hate those instincts.

(There was a knock at the door, and Innkeeper sunk deeper into the bed due to her headache.)

I'll handle this. You just... keep enjoying Mutant's company.

(Minstrel got up to answer the door.)

[At the door stood Cerenovus, holding a box of herbal tea. She looked kind of embarrassed.]

I found this at the inn’s doorstep. I was almost tempted to keep it, but Innkeeper’s suffering enough, is she not?

Oh, I see. Well, thank you for your honesty! I will see to it that she receives this. You made the right choice, I'm sure you would have regretted stealing from her on her birthday.

Don't worry, Mutant and I made sure sue had a good birthday...

I bought her cupcakes!

Awww, isn’t that nice?

Why thank you! So, you're not feeling sick anymore?

Nope! It’s honestly nice to get out of that kinda depressing thing for once.

Wow, you seemed so sick before, how did you recover so quickly? You must tell me your secret, hon.

…The Barista helped me.

Ah yes, they can cure what ails almost anyone... well, I will say that you look much better now that you're healthy.

Oh, why thank you! Now, would you like me to get out of your hair? We might see each other again in a… um… time. Yeah, time.

Oh, are you busy? I'd be happy to invite you in, if you have a moment.

(Minstrel flashed a charming smile)

…No. I mean, not now.

No, you're not busy, or no you can't come in?

No, I’m not busy. My art motivation has basically ground to a halt.

Ah! Now, that is a true tragedy. Do come in, perhaps I can help you with that, as I am no stranger to creative struggles.

(Minstrel opened the door wider and stepped inside)

Oh, if you'd like to go clean up, I wouldn't mind you using my bathroom.

Well, to tell the truth, I have a recent interest in keeping my apartment hay free...

…I get it. I’ll try to stay away from her, alright? I know she’s allergic.

You... know? I didn't think the two of you spoke all that much...

Oh, information does this little thing called “spreading.” You can learn stuff from someone if someone else talks about them!

Fascinating. I shall have to learn more about this novel phenomenon! I'm certain that my story ballads will benefit from it.

It’s crazy, right? Absolutely baffling, is it not?

[While Cerenovus was being sarcastic before, she’s now genuinely being playful.]

Indeed. Where did you hear of such a thing? The Gossip Institute?

Tinker? I'm surprised that they'd be able to get much info out, what with them dying all the time. But, I suppose strange things happen in Ravenswood Bluff

It seems like sometimes the gods let her off easy.

Hm. And maybe they deserve it... though I wish the gods would let Mutant off easy...

…Me too. I kinda wonder what they look like under that cloak of theirs.

You might get to see that later today... I myself have seen them and it is... interesting!

Oh! Now let’s say, on a scale of one to ten, how different are they from a normal person?

So… a 5 or 6, I’m assuming? Pretty interesting…

They have a tail and three eyes, for one thing.

Oooh… that really is interesting!

Yes, and every day their mouth seems to be in a different place on their body.

…Wait, how the hell does that work?

How does any of this work, really? I've made my peace with the supernatural, in a world with demons, pixies, and more...

Fair enough. I’m surprised that you haven’t gone mad already, considering the bullshit that keeps happening. But I guess I don’t know you three too well.

…How interesting. You’re quite the optimist.

It's not that I just believe everything will be fine, it's that I know I have the power to control my life and my happiness! It's a lovely way to live.

…Good for you. Good for you.

[There were hints of envy in Cerenovus’s voice.]

Anyone can do it, really. I don't know why more people don't. So caught up in ideas of shame and obligation, I suppose...

Anyway, where are my manners? Can I get you anything? Water, wine, bread? Ooh, I have fruit now too!

…Maybe just some bread and water. I don’t want to get sick again.

Fair enough! I'll get that for you!

(Minstrel went and got Cerenovus those things)

Here ya go!

Thank you.

[Cerenovus still looked a little envious of Minstrel, even after she started to make herself at home.]

You know, I would think an Artist like yourself would have no trouble appreciating life. Each painting is like a love letter to the subject, is it not?

Yeah, but again, I’ve lost motivation.

Well, what have you been trying to paint?

I don’t know anymore. One thing happens and the next thing I know, the town has to deal with whatever’s going on. Not to mention that I’ve kinda run out of things to paint.

Run out? Impossible! There is so much beauty in the world. What kinda of things do you usually paint? Landscapes? Still lives? figures?

Well, I usually paint landscapes. Occasionally I do more abstract stuff, but it gets messy after a while.

Well, I might know a place that would be lovely to paint. Perhaps I can show you it sometime...

That’d be nice.

Wonderful! Say, a lot has been happening to you lately, huh?

Yeah. First it was the cat thing, then the positivity, then the sickness, and now… I keep fucking up my time estimates!

Oh, wow, that is a lot... what do you think could be causing this? The Amnesiac? A Bootlegger?

…I have no fucking clue, but maybe we should… well, try to talk to that Amnesiac someday. When they’re here. And maybe also when they guess their ability.

That is something to look out for indeed...

Maybe in around 2 years, that is!

[Innkeeper could be heard groaning from the bedroom.]

Yes, Amnesiac does seem to have not been around for a while...

Who knows? Maybe those demons got them. I don’t know! Plus… can that bitch over there shut up? Is she sick too or something?

(Minstrel's expression shifted immediately)

You don't get to talk about my partner that way.

Woah there, I wasn’t being serious! I was just asking if there was anything wrong with her!

You can joke around and still use kind words. I will not tolerate insults to me and my friends.

I got it! I got it! Geez, so much for positivity…

It's much easier to be positive when you surround yourself with nice people!

Now, I recall that you've been staying in the shack Mutant used to live in... and I'm sure they're more than happy to keep living at the Inn, but I think they might have left some stuff there...

Oh, I see. You wanna rummage through there? I guess I’ll give you permission.

Oh, I was just- hm. Yes, that sounds good, then! I'll have Mutant tell me what they left there, and I can just go and get it!

Ok, ok. I’ll just make myself at home, then.

Of course, just one moment, I have to check on something.

(Minstrel went back to the bedroom)

(Innkeeper was still at bed, still pretty hungover.)

Who… who was that?

Honestly, I'm surprised that you didn't hear through the walls, they're not that thick... anyway, it was Cerenovus.

Well, did you get some answers from her? Maybe?

(Minstrel looked thoughtful, reciting what she had learned)

She also gave me permission to go to the shack she's staying in so I could get Mutant's stuff, and I might as well look around a little while I'm there.

It's not exactly all the answers, but it's something!

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

Well, I don't have another ball for you.

Good, because I hate those instincts.

(There was a knock at the door, and Innkeeper sunk deeper into the bed due to her headache.)

I'll handle this. You just... keep enjoying Mutant's company.

(Minstrel got up to answer the door.)

[At the door stood Cerenovus, holding a box of herbal tea. She looked kind of embarrassed.]

I found this at the inn’s doorstep. I was almost tempted to keep it, but Innkeeper’s suffering enough, is she not?

Oh, I see. Well, thank you for your honesty! I will see to it that she receives this. You made the right choice, I'm sure you would have regretted stealing from her on her birthday.

Don't worry, Mutant and I made sure sue had a good birthday...

I bought her cupcakes!

Awww, isn’t that nice?

Why thank you! So, you're not feeling sick anymore?

Nope! It’s honestly nice to get out of that kinda depressing thing for once.

Wow, you seemed so sick before, how did you recover so quickly? You must tell me your secret, hon.

…The Barista helped me.

Ah yes, they can cure what ails almost anyone... well, I will say that you look much better now that you're healthy.

Oh, why thank you! Now, would you like me to get out of your hair? We might see each other again in a… um… time. Yeah, time.

Oh, are you busy? I'd be happy to invite you in, if you have a moment.

(Minstrel flashed a charming smile)

…No. I mean, not now.

No, you're not busy, or no you can't come in?

No, I’m not busy. My art motivation has basically ground to a halt.

Ah! Now, that is a true tragedy. Do come in, perhaps I can help you with that, as I am no stranger to creative struggles.

(Minstrel opened the door wider and stepped inside)

Oh, if you'd like to go clean up, I wouldn't mind you using my bathroom.

Well, to tell the truth, I have a recent interest in keeping my apartment hay free...

…I get it. I’ll try to stay away from her, alright? I know she’s allergic.

You... know? I didn't think the two of you spoke all that much...

Oh, information does this little thing called “spreading.” You can learn stuff from someone if someone else talks about them!

Fascinating. I shall have to learn more about this novel phenomenon! I'm certain that my story ballads will benefit from it.

It’s crazy, right? Absolutely baffling, is it not?

[While Cerenovus was being sarcastic before, she’s now genuinely being playful.]

Indeed. Where did you hear of such a thing? The Gossip Institute?

Tinker? I'm surprised that they'd be able to get much info out, what with them dying all the time. But, I suppose strange things happen in Ravenswood Bluff

It seems like sometimes the gods let her off easy.

Hm. And maybe they deserve it... though I wish the gods would let Mutant off easy...

…Me too. I kinda wonder what they look like under that cloak of theirs.

You might get to see that later today... I myself have seen them and it is... interesting!

Oh! Now let’s say, on a scale of one to ten, how different are they from a normal person?

So… a 5 or 6, I’m assuming? Pretty interesting…

They have a tail and three eyes, for one thing.

Oooh… that really is interesting!

Yes, and every day their mouth seems to be in a different place on their body.

…Wait, how the hell does that work?

How does any of this work, really? I've made my peace with the supernatural, in a world with demons, pixies, and more...

Fair enough. I’m surprised that you haven’t gone mad already, considering the bullshit that keeps happening. But I guess I don’t know you three too well.

…How interesting. You’re quite the optimist.

It's not that I just believe everything will be fine, it's that I know I have the power to control my life and my happiness! It's a lovely way to live.

…Good for you. Good for you.

[There were hints of envy in Cerenovus’s voice.]

Anyone can do it, really. I don't know why more people don't. So caught up in ideas of shame and obligation, I suppose...

Anyway, where are my manners? Can I get you anything? Water, wine, bread? Ooh, I have fruit now too!

…Maybe just some bread and water. I don’t want to get sick again.

Fair enough! I'll get that for you!

(Minstrel went and got Cerenovus those things)

Here ya go!

Thank you.

[Cerenovus still looked a little envious of Minstrel, even after she started to make herself at home.]

You know, I would think an Artist like yourself would have no trouble appreciating life. Each painting is like a love letter to the subject, is it not?

Yeah, but again, I’ve lost motivation.

Well, what have you been trying to paint?

I don’t know anymore. One thing happens and the next thing I know, the town has to deal with whatever’s going on. Not to mention that I’ve kinda run out of things to paint.

Run out? Impossible! There is so much beauty in the world. What kinda of things do you usually paint? Landscapes? Still lives? figures?

Well, I usually paint landscapes. Occasionally I do more abstract stuff, but it gets messy after a while.

Well, I might know a place that would be lovely to paint. Perhaps I can show you it sometime...

That’d be nice.

Wonderful! Say, a lot has been happening to you lately, huh?

Yeah. First it was the cat thing, then the positivity, then the sickness, and now… I keep fucking up my time estimates!

Oh, wow, that is a lot... what do you think could be causing this? The Amnesiac? A Bootlegger?

…I have no fucking clue, but maybe we should… well, try to talk to that Amnesiac someday. When they’re here. And maybe also when they guess their ability.

That is something to look out for indeed...

Maybe in around 2 years, that is!

[Innkeeper could be heard groaning from the bedroom.]

Yes, Amnesiac does seem to have not been around for a while...

Who knows? Maybe those demons got them. I don’t know! Plus… can that bitch over there shut up? Is she sick too or something?

(Minstrel's expression shifted immediately)

You don't get to talk about my partner that way.

Woah there, I wasn’t being serious! I was just asking if there was anything wrong with her!

You can joke around and still use kind words. I will not tolerate insults to me and my friends.

I got it! I got it! Geez, so much for positivity…

It's much easier to be positive when you surround yourself with nice people!

Now, I recall that you've been staying in the shack Mutant used to live in... and I'm sure they're more than happy to keep living at the Inn, but I think they might have left some stuff there...

Oh, I see. You wanna rummage through there? I guess I’ll give you permission.

Oh, I was just- hm. Yes, that sounds good, then! I'll have Mutant tell me what they left there, and I can just go and get it!

Ok, ok. I’ll just make myself at home, then.

Of course, just one moment, I have to check on something.

(Minstrel went back to the bedroom)

(Innkeeper was still at bed, still pretty hungover.)

Who… who was that?

Honestly, I'm surprised that you didn't hear through the walls, they're not that thick... anyway, it was Cerenovus.

Well, did you get some answers from her? Maybe?

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

Well, I don't have another ball for you.

Good, because I hate those instincts.

(There was a knock at the door, and Innkeeper sunk deeper into the bed due to her headache.)

I'll handle this. You just... keep enjoying Mutant's company.

(Minstrel got up to answer the door.)

[At the door stood Cerenovus, holding a box of herbal tea. She looked kind of embarrassed.]

I found this at the inn’s doorstep. I was almost tempted to keep it, but Innkeeper’s suffering enough, is she not?

Oh, I see. Well, thank you for your honesty! I will see to it that she receives this. You made the right choice, I'm sure you would have regretted stealing from her on her birthday.

Don't worry, Mutant and I made sure sue had a good birthday...

I bought her cupcakes!

Awww, isn’t that nice?

Why thank you! So, you're not feeling sick anymore?

Nope! It’s honestly nice to get out of that kinda depressing thing for once.

Wow, you seemed so sick before, how did you recover so quickly? You must tell me your secret, hon.

…The Barista helped me.

Ah yes, they can cure what ails almost anyone... well, I will say that you look much better now that you're healthy.

Oh, why thank you! Now, would you like me to get out of your hair? We might see each other again in a… um… time. Yeah, time.

Oh, are you busy? I'd be happy to invite you in, if you have a moment.

(Minstrel flashed a charming smile)

…No. I mean, not now.

No, you're not busy, or no you can't come in?

No, I’m not busy. My art motivation has basically ground to a halt.

Ah! Now, that is a true tragedy. Do come in, perhaps I can help you with that, as I am no stranger to creative struggles.

(Minstrel opened the door wider and stepped inside)

Oh, if you'd like to go clean up, I wouldn't mind you using my bathroom.

Well, to tell the truth, I have a recent interest in keeping my apartment hay free...

…I get it. I’ll try to stay away from her, alright? I know she’s allergic.

You... know? I didn't think the two of you spoke all that much...

Oh, information does this little thing called “spreading.” You can learn stuff from someone if someone else talks about them!

Fascinating. I shall have to learn more about this novel phenomenon! I'm certain that my story ballads will benefit from it.

It’s crazy, right? Absolutely baffling, is it not?

[While Cerenovus was being sarcastic before, she’s now genuinely being playful.]

Indeed. Where did you hear of such a thing? The Gossip Institute?

Tinker? I'm surprised that they'd be able to get much info out, what with them dying all the time. But, I suppose strange things happen in Ravenswood Bluff

It seems like sometimes the gods let her off easy.

Hm. And maybe they deserve it... though I wish the gods would let Mutant off easy...

…Me too. I kinda wonder what they look like under that cloak of theirs.

You might get to see that later today... I myself have seen them and it is... interesting!

Oh! Now let’s say, on a scale of one to ten, how different are they from a normal person?

So… a 5 or 6, I’m assuming? Pretty interesting…

They have a tail and three eyes, for one thing.

Oooh… that really is interesting!

Yes, and every day their mouth seems to be in a different place on their body.

…Wait, how the hell does that work?

How does any of this work, really? I've made my peace with the supernatural, in a world with demons, pixies, and more...

Fair enough. I’m surprised that you haven’t gone mad already, considering the bullshit that keeps happening. But I guess I don’t know you three too well.

…How interesting. You’re quite the optimist.

It's not that I just believe everything will be fine, it's that I know I have the power to control my life and my happiness! It's a lovely way to live.

…Good for you. Good for you.

[There were hints of envy in Cerenovus’s voice.]

Anyone can do it, really. I don't know why more people don't. So caught up in ideas of shame and obligation, I suppose...

Anyway, where are my manners? Can I get you anything? Water, wine, bread? Ooh, I have fruit now too!

…Maybe just some bread and water. I don’t want to get sick again.

Fair enough! I'll get that for you!

(Minstrel went and got Cerenovus those things)

Here ya go!

Thank you.

[Cerenovus still looked a little envious of Minstrel, even after she started to make herself at home.]

You know, I would think an Artist like yourself would have no trouble appreciating life. Each painting is like a love letter to the subject, is it not?

Yeah, but again, I’ve lost motivation.

Well, what have you been trying to paint?

I don’t know anymore. One thing happens and the next thing I know, the town has to deal with whatever’s going on. Not to mention that I’ve kinda run out of things to paint.

Run out? Impossible! There is so much beauty in the world. What kinda of things do you usually paint? Landscapes? Still lives? figures?

Well, I usually paint landscapes. Occasionally I do more abstract stuff, but it gets messy after a while.

Well, I might know a place that would be lovely to paint. Perhaps I can show you it sometime...

That’d be nice.

Wonderful! Say, a lot has been happening to you lately, huh?

Yeah. First it was the cat thing, then the positivity, then the sickness, and now… I keep fucking up my time estimates!

Oh, wow, that is a lot... what do you think could be causing this? The Amnesiac? A Bootlegger?

…I have no fucking clue, but maybe we should… well, try to talk to that Amnesiac someday. When they’re here. And maybe also when they guess their ability.

That is something to look out for indeed...

Maybe in around 2 years, that is!

[Innkeeper could be heard groaning from the bedroom.]

Yes, Amnesiac does seem to have not been around for a while...

Who knows? Maybe those demons got them. I don’t know! Plus… can that bitch over there shut up? Is she sick too or something?

(Minstrel's expression shifted immediately)

You don't get to talk about my partner that way.

Woah there, I wasn’t being serious! I was just asking if there was anything wrong with her!

You can joke around and still use kind words. I will not tolerate insults to me and my friends.

I got it! I got it! Geez, so much for positivity…

It's much easier to be positive when you surround yourself with nice people!

Now, I recall that you've been staying in the shack Mutant used to live in... and I'm sure they're more than happy to keep living at the Inn, but I think they might have left some stuff there...

Oh, I see. You wanna rummage through there? I guess I’ll give you permission.

Oh, I was just- hm. Yes, that sounds good, then! I'll have Mutant tell me what they left there, and I can just go and get it!

Ok, ok. I’ll just make myself at home, then.

Of course, just one moment, I have to check on something.

(Minstrel went back to the bedroom)

(Innkeeper was still at bed, still pretty hungover.)

Who… who was that?

#blood on the clocktower #officialverse #ooc

wobby iwll sionly light saviorallfo us cure wash away all pain heldfinp wo for humanitydNIf yBbOw

OOC: Hey, what the hell is this and why did you send it twice?

OOC: A simple incorrect quote for a character I don’t even play.

Some Rando: Hey, are you a boy or a girl?

Mutant: ‘m neither.

Some Rando: Well, what’s in your pants?

Mutant: …

Mutant: (fearfully) I don’ know…

#blood on the clocktower #officialverse #ooc

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

Well, I don't have another ball for you.

#blood on the clocktower #officialverse #OOC: It’s Cerenovus. She was the one who stole the tea from the inn. (And technically Dreamer)#OOC: But again: What would anyone do with that much tea?

Good, because I hate those instincts.

(There was a knock at the door, and Innkeeper sunk deeper into the bed due to her headache.)

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

Usually not that hard to do if the dog is feeling poorly

Besides, we are people, who know better than our instincts.

…Not me.

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

Not every mysterious happening is your responsibility to deal with, my dear.

It’s like throwing a ball and telling a dog not to fetch it.

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

What? Why?

There’s the feeling that nothing much can be really done about it… god damn Slayer brain…

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

Nothing for it now, it was a different town... and at least 10 years ago!

Aaaand that’s making it worse…

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…

'M so lucky I have you...

I could say the same about you!

Eeeh i'm just some creature...

And? If I didn’t like creatures, you wouldn’t be in bed with me right now.

Wha- ... huh...

I do also have a thing against discrimination… except for most demons. Those bastards can go back to hell.

Hear hear!

…Speaking of which, Minstrel, I’m still getting weird feelings about that Barber from your past.

(Innkeeper slowly woke up, a little hungover from last night… she looked at the clock, before nudging @minstrel-official to wake her up as well.)

It changed.

(Minstrel took a moment to process as she was waking up, but eventually spoke up)

What changed, darling? And how's your head feeling?

Hurts… but… look.

(Innkeeper handed the clock to Minstrel. Minute’s hand is at 14, and the second’s hand is unfrozen.)

Huh. Still no clue. I left a glass of water on the side table for you, unless you want to cure your headache with venom from the snake that bit ya.

Oh… thank you… just… check what caused the change.

What do you think it could be?

Well… we still haven’t gotten a real answer out of Cerenovus…

Oh, do you think it's a Cerenovus clock?

I don’t know… but we could still ask her…

She probably wouldn't want to tell us. You should keep writing down the numbers, but there's really no way to tell what it's saying until you get the same number as one you've gotten before.

(Minstrel reached her hand toward Innkeeper before hesitating, aborting the action)

Maybe there’s… a tell. I don’t know… she was sick last time we talked to her, right?

I don’t think I could eat right now…

Well, my offer for water and wine still stand, if that would help your hangover. We could also just sleep in a little longer.

(Innkeeper grabbed the glass of water Minstrel left for her and took a sip.)

I don’t need sleep, I need answers…

(Minstrel opted for the wine, not that there was much left of it from last night)

Determined as always! But please, for your sake, go easy on yourself.

You’re saying that like it’s not my only option… please, keep it down…

Right, my apologies. Are you certain you're not in need of some more rest?

I wouldn’t be able to sleep if I tried.

It need not be sleep, just resting, thinking of things that don't bring you stress, could be helpful for recovery.

Sorry, it’s just… sleep’s the first thing that comes to mind. It still kinda scares me, if I’m honest.

Why does it scare you so, if I may ask?

…The wish. It’s irrational. I know it’s irrational… but I’m scared I’ll lose everything again.

I see. It's not wrong to be afraid. It is true that we live in an unpredictable world. But at last you can know that you're not alone.

…Yeah. At least I have you… and… Empath.

Speaking of which, I wonder how they're doing... and I wonder what they thought of our little... idea last night.

…Me too. Me too.

Well, we could ask, but I would need to raise my voice for that.

Yeah, please don’t.

Alright, might as well let them sleep in a bit longer. I imagine their head must feel much like yours.

…But probably worse. Their guts might even try to protest.

I hope not. For their sake and mine.

Yeah…

(Minstrel was quiet for once. It's not that there was nothing she could say, but rather, nothing that seemed worth the risk of hurting Innkeeper's head)

…We still gotta find the answers.

We're not pressed for time, dear. We'll get there eventually.

I just… I just want to know. If I can’t protect, then someone else needs to.

You can protect. You can keep doing your job and helping the town without solving everything.

…It just doesn’t feel right.

Is that because of your Slayer past?

…It might be…

Innkeeper, no one is expecting you to slay the Demon tomorrow, we have time for this. There is time to rest, and there is time to enjoy life.

It’s just hard to enjoy life with so much stress… when I’m trying to enjoy life, I just feel like… this pressure… to do things…

Choir- nevermind… just… I think I understand, but it’s better said than done.

Of course. Sometimes it takes a big change to see it... but again, you're not in this alone. I'm sure Empath will remind you to value your own survival, and I can do the same for happiness.

True, true… though I’m a little curious about your past…

You shared yours with me, it's only fair!

Sounds good… I’m… I’m listening…

Hm? Oh, well, it's a bit of a tale... I've been working on a song for it recently, but perhaps that should wait until your head is feeling better.

Well, how quiet can you make it?

I can't make it quieter without ruining the suspense!

Oh…

No, it's fine, just... what questions do you have?

You said you used to be a Choirboy, right? Does that mean… you know…

You could say I'm a self-made woman! Or, well... I suppose I couldn't have done it without the Mysterious Night Barber...

…Without the what now?

Oh… oh wow… I never really expected it to be a Barber that’d make you… you. Especially with the fact that no one really adds “mysterious” and “Barber” to the same title.

Well, they came from seemingly out of nowhere at night, at a time when I had thought the town's barber was dead already... so it's kind of a mystery. Maybe I got my hair fixed by a ghost?

…Maybe…

(Innkeeper seemed a little skeptical, for some reason.)

Anyway, I've been the Minstrel ever since!

…Good for you… good for you… and what happened to that Barber?

Nope, I left town and never looked back!

…Hm. Hmmm… you don’t know what happened to him? Have you ever questioned what… what would have happened… if you chose death?

(Innkeeper was deep in thought… it seems like even hungover, she was still thinking clearly… kinda.)

I don't think it was a real question, right? That would be wild.

It would… it would… Would you stay here for a moment? I got business to take care of…

(Innkeeper then tried to get out of bed, only to go right back to where she was not even a second later.)

Oh, no no no no no no no… it hurts… it still hurts.

Well, if you're still going to be here for a while, I might see if Mu... our mutual friend would be willing and able to join us.

…Ok. Ok...

(Minstrel gently got up and went to the door)

Hey Empath, I'm coming in there but I will have my eyes closed just in case you're, ah, changing or something!

I've brought you a late birthday gift~

Hi Mutant! It’s nice to see you agai- ow… maybe I shouldn’t talk so loud either.

Don' worry... Minstr'l told me t'be quiet for ya an' I will...

(Minstrel set Mutant down on the bed next to Innkeeper. Mutant was already grabbing onto Innkeeper before they had fully been set down. Then Minstrel got in on the other side)

You know… I have yet to do this while sober, so…

(Innkeeper gave Mutant a gentle kiss, which would be affection in two ways. One being the kiss, and the other being the lack of alcohol in Innkeeper’s system.)

(Mutant giggled and blushed like a schoolgirl, looking at Innkeeper like she was the Best Person in the World)

You’re welcome, Mutant!

(Innkeeper held out a hand, before hesitating. A few moments passed before she just awkwardly patted Mutant’s head.)

(Mutant leaned into the touch)

I... loveyou...

I love you too…