In Sweet Music Is Such Art @minstrel-official - Tumblr Blog

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

I… I do…

You just get cleaned up, and Mutant and I will tidy this place up a bit.

Ok… if I can… function… well… enough…

(Innkeeper made her way to the bathroom to get cleaned up.)

(Minstrel and Mutant cleaned up the house, getting rid of every trace of Cerenovus' hay and Innkeeper's death

(After a while, Innkeeper got herself cleaned up… she still didn’t look very good, but she looked somewhat better than before.)

Are you feeling better, love?

A… a little…

Well, hopefully you're feeling good enough to get some sleep.

(Minstrel offered Innkeeper a hand)

(Innkeeper grabbed Minstrel’s hand and tried to make her way to the bedroom.)

(Minstrel helped support Innkeeper as they walked)

Thank… you…

Of course.

(Minstrel got into bed)

(Innkeeper got in bed as well.)

This… is… great… hehe…

(Minstrel put an arm around Innkeeper.)

I feel the same way.

Hehe… I’m… alive… doing good… for… someone… who just… got revived…

Indeed you are. Looking pretty good for a recently dead girl.

(Minstrel kissed Innkeeper)

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

I… I do…

You just get cleaned up, and Mutant and I will tidy this place up a bit.

Ok… if I can… function… well… enough…

(Innkeeper made her way to the bathroom to get cleaned up.)

(Minstrel and Mutant cleaned up the house, getting rid of every trace of Cerenovus' hay and Innkeeper's death

(After a while, Innkeeper got herself cleaned up… she still didn’t look very good, but she looked somewhat better than before.)

Are you feeling better, love?

A… a little…

Well, hopefully you're feeling good enough to get some sleep.

(Minstrel offered Innkeeper a hand)

(Innkeeper grabbed Minstrel’s hand and tried to make her way to the bedroom.)

(Minstrel helped support Innkeeper as they walked)

Thank… you…

Of course.

(Minstrel got into bed)

(Innkeeper got in bed as well.)

This… is… great… hehe…

(Minstrel put an arm around Innkeeper.)

I feel the same way.

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

I… I do…

You just get cleaned up, and Mutant and I will tidy this place up a bit.

Ok… if I can… function… well… enough…

(Innkeeper made her way to the bathroom to get cleaned up.)

(Minstrel and Mutant cleaned up the house, getting rid of every trace of Cerenovus' hay and Innkeeper's death

(After a while, Innkeeper got herself cleaned up… she still didn’t look very good, but she looked somewhat better than before.)

Are you feeling better, love?

A… a little…

Well, hopefully you're feeling good enough to get some sleep.

(Minstrel offered Innkeeper a hand)

(Innkeeper grabbed Minstrel’s hand and tried to make her way to the bedroom.)

(Minstrel helped support Innkeeper as they walked)

Thank… you…

Of course.

(Minstrel got into bed)

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

I… I do…

You just get cleaned up, and Mutant and I will tidy this place up a bit.

Ok… if I can… function… well… enough…

(Innkeeper made her way to the bathroom to get cleaned up.)

(Minstrel and Mutant cleaned up the house, getting rid of every trace of Cerenovus' hay and Innkeeper's death

(After a while, Innkeeper got herself cleaned up… she still didn’t look very good, but she looked somewhat better than before.)

Are you feeling better, love?

A… a little…

Well, hopefully you're feeling good enough to get some sleep.

(Minstrel offered Innkeeper a hand)

(Innkeeper grabbed Minstrel’s hand and tried to make her way to the bedroom.)

(Minstrel helped support Innkeeper as they walked)

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

I… I do…

You just get cleaned up, and Mutant and I will tidy this place up a bit.

Ok… if I can… function… well… enough…

(Innkeeper made her way to the bathroom to get cleaned up.)

(Minstrel and Mutant cleaned up the house, getting rid of every trace of Cerenovus' hay and Innkeeper's death

(After a while, Innkeeper got herself cleaned up… she still didn’t look very good, but she looked somewhat better than before.)

Are you feeling better, love?

A… a little…

Well, hopefully you're feeling good enough to get some sleep.

(Minstrel offered Innkeeper a hand)

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

I… I do…

You just get cleaned up, and Mutant and I will tidy this place up a bit.

Ok… if I can… function… well… enough…

(Innkeeper made her way to the bathroom to get cleaned up.)

(Minstrel and Mutant cleaned up the house, getting rid of every trace of Cerenovus' hay and Innkeeper's death

(After a while, Innkeeper got herself cleaned up… she still didn’t look very good, but she looked somewhat better than before.)

Are you feeling better, love?

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

I… I do…

You just get cleaned up, and Mutant and I will tidy this place up a bit.

Ok… if I can… function… well… enough…

(Innkeeper made her way to the bathroom to get cleaned up.)

(Minstrel and Mutant cleaned up the house, getting rid of every trace of Cerenovus' hay and Innkeeper's death

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

I… I do…

You just get cleaned up, and Mutant and I will tidy this place up a bit.

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Innkeeper giggled and blushed, but her breath was a little shaky, probably because of the lack of cleanliness her body dealt with.)

(They arrived at Minstrel's home)

Alright, I trust you know where everything you need is at this point?

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

Hehe… thank you… I… I love you… and… I love Empath…

And we love you too, Innkeeper.

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

…With.

You got it, darling.

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…Bed. I need… comfort…

With or without me?

(Mutant and Minstrel headed to the latter's abode, along with @innkeeper-official after a very eventful night)

Since Minstrel is so tired, maybe I could help clean up? I'm pretty good at it...

Oh… go… go ahead… I’m… tired… too… just… be careful…

Also... uh. Do you want to sleep on the couch or the bed tonight?

…This is still weird.

Wuh huh?

Yeah… I still don’t know what’s going on… inside of my head or anywhere else…

There's a lot I don't understand. But I still survive...

…Do you thrive?

When I'm with you...

Awww…

People are so complicated. I'm pretty simple though...

I kinda wish I was simple. I take one step into my head, and past me’s staring at me like I’m secretly the demon.

What? But... you know you're not the demon. There aren't any demons that don't know it...

Yeah, of course I’m not the demon! If I was, I’d be a terrible Innkeeper!

So why doesn't past you know it?

I… I don’t know…

Well you should tell her to stop being mean to my incredible partner Innkee!

……Maybe I should also tell her to stop being mean to you as well.

That would be nice!

…And she’s wondering what she did wrong the first time.

...not nice...

She… she wants more details. She claims that you two actually got along… somehow…

When she yelled "answer me"... that was scary...

A-and... when she asked if I was possessed...

…Yeah. I think that’d do it.

Mhm.

………You think she’d apologize by now…

It's okay. Not everyone is gonna like me. Most people don't...

That’s still pretty sad.

It doesn't have to be sad. It's just life. I've been accused of being a demon before...

It’s just… you deserve way better… abuse isn’t life… it’s just… wow…

Wow what?

As soon as I get revived, I’m gonna teach you what a healthy relationship looks like.

You already have.

What about another lesson?

I wouldn't say no.

Yeah, now we’re talking!

I always like spending time with you. You're safe.

I’m glad to be the safe person…

(Mutant looked up at Innkeeper, and there was only one thing they could say.)

I love you.

I love you too.

And I love past you because you wouldn't be here without her.

I hope your relationship with her will get better…

Me too. I'll try not to run away next time. Even if I'm scared.

…Sounds good.

I can't wait for you to be alive again...

Me too… me too…

Is it almost night yet?

Well, I went here at morning… it might have been a few hours… this would have been easier with a functioning clock…

It's about 3,526 measures to go, if that helps

…Ok… that… honestly doesn’t help at all, but… that sounds both close and far.

I could always play faster.

Heh… sounds like a plan! I’ll try to stay in this material plane for as long as possible!

(Minstrel started playing faster, and it did seem to make the time pass quicker, though whether it was real or an illusion was impossible to tell)

(Innkeeper just sat and watched, daydreaming about how she’ll be alive again…)

(Eventually the sun was set, and with a dramatic, flourishing ending, Minstrel's song completed. She looked around at Innkeeper and Mutant who had put their robe back on)

Now it's time to get to work.

Yeah… just… just in case… do you… know where… my dead body… is?

It's still in my apartment. Worry not, my love! You shall yet see the dawn's light!

(Minstrel ran off to the Professor's house)

(The spirit followed, still a little unsure about whether or not she needed to do anything.)

(Mutant also followed behind because why not)

I’m gonna… be alive… again… it’s great… so great…

(After a chat with the professor)

The good news is they'll do it! The bad news is, it won't be free. They want to study... Empath... if we agree to this, you'll be resurrected by morning.

…Well, it… can we… go to the inn first? I feel like this is something that might need some… time… to decide on…

(Innkeeper winked at Minstrel, hoping she got what she was trying to say.)

I know what you're referring to, but the Professor has their own method. Something that should deal with the... empath problems...

…Will it kill them?

No. No long term side affects, and as for short term... it's just... numbness and paralysis of the lower body for about an hour, plus general fatigue and weakness.

(Mutant seemed put on edge by the description of those symptoms)

Ok… and… one more question… Empath… are you… ok with this?

This... feels like a trap to me. But if you trust them... I can try...

…Ok… just… be careful… and remember… you’re the Empath… you have people who… who care… and love you… both as friends… and so much more…

Okay. I'll... I'll do it! I don't want you to be dead anymore.

…Thank you…

N-no prob!

(Mutant was literally shaking)

It’s… it’s ok… don’t… worry… I’m here… I’m here…

Can you keep watch to make sure they don't do anything to me?

I… I can’t guarantee anything, but… I’ll try…

Okay. Thank you.

(Mutant went inside the Professor's lab)

(The spirit, as she said, tried to keep watch any way she could. Though any windows, the door, or poking her head right through the walls.)

(Mutant took the Professor's poison and it started out as just questions, but then it moved onto inspecting parts of its body and taking samples. Mutant stayed as quiet as they could the whole time and rarely made eye contact with them, hugging their arms close to their chest unless the Professor needed to inspect them. It seemed anxious and a bit chilly.

At one point, the Professor asked Mutant to take its shirt off, which it didn't seem to mind. Just like on its face, there were greenish patches of skin all over, and their ribs were quite visible. They did not look like normal ribs, with the bones seeming to diverge and reconnect in a strange way, especially where they connected to its lower arms. There were bumps on their back as if their vertebrae were slightly raised, and the Professor made some comment about "epigenetics" and "potential for dorsal spines".)

(Innkeeper… was not happy. In an instant, her demeanor changed, and she watched more closely… there was a fire in her eyes like no other… but for now, she had to keep watch.)

(The last thing the Professor did was take a small skin sample from the greenish skin area, as well as a blood sample from the same place. Once that was done, she bandaged the site and gave Mutant a blanket, going to run some tests on the samples and write down notes, muttering about how fascinating it was. Mutant caught a glimpse of Innkeeper in the window and waved shyly)

(Innkeeper didn’t wave back, but… she… did say one thing.)

Are you ok?

(Mutant gave a shaky thumbs-up)

Good… good.

(Professor didn't come back for at least another hour so Mutant was just kind of... stuck there...)

What was… all of that about? I feel like I have some clue, but I gotta make sure.

...What?

The experiments.

I-I don't know... they were talking about... about radiation a-and possibly using me to cure a disease? Or something, I'm not sure. I just... really hope they get around to re- resurrecting you tonight or all this discomfort and anxiety- and having to sit on this cold metal lab table-will be for nothing.

But still. I survived. I survived, and I've been through worse and been at the mercy of worse people...

(Mutant laughed anxiously)

I'm sure you'd still say I deserve better though! But it's fine. I know you... want to be alive.

Heh. Who knew... when I'm poisoned but... but can still think I just don't- don't know when to shut up...

…What. I can see now that you’re clearly not the Demon I’m looking for… But… they… poisoned you? To help cure a disease? And… resurrect… me?

(Mutant was talking to the wrong person! At least this time, she’s not yelling at them.)

You, Slayer. And the Innkeeper that... um? Shares your body?

I-It was payment, anyway. Y'know. Favor for a favor.

…I don’t get it either. I think it might have been because of the masking I had to do. Was the death because of that Cerenovus you mentioned before? I have seen the ways one had killed, and it’s kind of scary, even for someone like me.

It was, yeah. And then Minstrel nominated her and got her executed. But ah, what do you mean by masking?

…Can I trust you enough to share it?

Well, heh. I doubt an evil player would volunteer for poisoning right after a minstrel day.

It was a hard time for me. Exorcist was killed by an illness and I knew that with his Demon-suppression abilities gone, I’d be next. I had to take a new identity so the Demon wouldn’t think I was the Slayer ready to kill them at any moment. And then, it kind of snowballed from there. What was an attempt to protect myself became better at protecting others. I learned how to make drinks so no one would get suspicious. And at some point, it… it wasn’t me anymore. I still don’t know when it happened, but she was someone completely different who took on everything. Almost everything.

But you're still here...

Yeah, but for… forever, really, she thought she was the only one. Either that, or she was aware of me but thought I was dead or something. That’s how work-focused she is, taking over both the job and the schedule… or lack thereof.

We gotta work on that...

I can see why.

Hmm...

(Mutant twitched their foot slightly and noticed this, quickly putting their shirt and cloak back on)

How are you feeling? Innkeeper said I had to be nicer to you, so I have to check every now and then.

Honestly, this was... terrifying. I've never had to be exposed like that before, and combined with being immobilized... before... earlier in my life, I would have sooner gnawed off my own arm than go through that.

Thank you... for asking.

I hope the radiation didn’t mess with you too much.

Huh? Oh, no they were testing for radiation. Not exposing me to it. But thanks anyway.

That’s good.

(The Professor left the building and went with Minstrel to get Innkeeper's body)

(The spirit watched, before looking at her hands.)

What caused us to break? Was it because we… she was scared?

Fear breaks a lot of things.

I can see that.

I've been scared for a long time. As an Empath, of course, I feel everyone else's fears. Everyone has them.

Some people have less things to fear. Like me.

You're still afraid. Of trusting the wrong people and being hurt because of it.

Who told you that?

No one. Like I said, I'm the Empath. I know fear. It's the reason why you approach everyone like they could be the demon, right? I don't see any other reason for it.

That and the Cerenovus deaths are the only things I’m afraid of. You got that?

What about being poisoned by the evil team and having your slayer shot be for nothing? Or being Harpy mad about someone you know is innocent?

Coffee and apologies. And I don’t usually apologize.

You wouldn't be afraid at all?

No.

I think you're lying. To me, or to yourself. (Mutant said it casually, like it was no big deal)

I think you're like me, which is to say, scared a lot of the time. There's nothing wrong with it... but you choose to be angry instead.

…That’s not true.

I don't know for sure, but if it strikes a chord with you, think about why.

(Mutant shakily stood up from the lab table and carefully walked outside, using anything they could as a handhold to brace themself)

I’m not weak.

I never said you were. Fear keeps you alert, keeps you alive. That's not weakness.

Do you know who the fuck you’re talking to? Any vulnerability means I’m likely dead!

(And NOW here’s the Slayer rudeness!)

And yet I've survived many things, including an encounter with a demon years ago...

Because you’re not someone who has to protect their town.

Just because you don't show your fear doesn't mean it's not there.

I’m not scared.

Are you trying to convince me or yourself?

You. I already know.

Okay. I don't want to argue.

Good. Because I don’t want trouble either.

Good.

It’s been forever since I’ve had this much time out, and I can’t even do anything.

What do you usually do when you're... out?

Look for the Demon.

Were you the one that... um... stabbed Recluse?

Things get blurry after a while and sometimes in the present, but… most likely.

Do you still think they're evil?

Absolutely.

I do as well, with how much they were harassing me!

(Minstrel arrives with Professor, carrying Innkeeper's rigid body)

Oh my lord... I look awful.

(Mutant looked away)

Hopefully this should be quick. I don’t want to be eaten by maggots.

(Professor got started on the process, it took about an hour to get the body ready)

(The spirit was watching, trying to hide the fact that she was mildly disturbed by seeing her own dead body.)

(Soon enough the corpse was shocked back to life!)

I… we… I’m alive? Oh my lord!

Is that a white streak in your hair?

What? Let me see. Does anyone have a mirror?

I have one!

(Minstrel handed Innkeeper a compact mirror)

(Innkeeper opened the mirror and looked at herself.)

Huh, it seems like I do. Is this normal or…

Well, you did get electrocuted back to the land of the living! It seems pretty par for the course...

It's striking... but pretty.

Yeah, I… I like it. I think it fits me well.

I'm glad to hear that.

By the way… are there any side effects other than the hair thing? I’ll have to return to work someday…

I asked the professor about that, and apparently there aren't many that they know of other than just... static shocks?

Huh… seems a little weird… I always thought revival would be a little more harsh on the body.

Well, it's still a rather new science. Maybe there are things they haven't accounted for.

Yeah… maybe. I’m just… a little concerned.

It makes sense to be concerned, but you're alive! Isn't that worth celebrating?

Yeah! Yeah, it is! I’m… alive… I can live… I…

(After that, Innkeeper got into a bit of a coughing fit. Again. Did they clean the body?)

Perhaps you should have a bath first. I can't imagine being dead is very sanitary.

Yeah, I… probably should…

Your place or mine?

Yours, if it’s… hay free…

Well, Cerenovus was in there before you died, and I haven't really had a chance to clean up yet since I've been so busy... but I can... I can clean up while you're having a bath... I... (yawn) usually don't stay up this late but... I'll be fine...

You should get some sleep…

I will, I will... eventually.

…This is still weird.

Wuh huh?

Yeah… I still don’t know what’s going on… inside of my head or anywhere else…

There's a lot I don't understand. But I still survive...

…Do you thrive?

When I'm with you...

Awww…

People are so complicated. I'm pretty simple though...

I kinda wish I was simple. I take one step into my head, and past me’s staring at me like I’m secretly the demon.

What? But... you know you're not the demon. There aren't any demons that don't know it...

Yeah, of course I’m not the demon! If I was, I’d be a terrible Innkeeper!

So why doesn't past you know it?

I… I don’t know…

Well you should tell her to stop being mean to my incredible partner Innkee!

……Maybe I should also tell her to stop being mean to you as well.

That would be nice!

…And she’s wondering what she did wrong the first time.

...not nice...

She… she wants more details. She claims that you two actually got along… somehow…

When she yelled "answer me"... that was scary...

A-and... when she asked if I was possessed...

…Yeah. I think that’d do it.

Mhm.

………You think she’d apologize by now…

It's okay. Not everyone is gonna like me. Most people don't...

That’s still pretty sad.

It doesn't have to be sad. It's just life. I've been accused of being a demon before...

It’s just… you deserve way better… abuse isn’t life… it’s just… wow…

Wow what?

As soon as I get revived, I’m gonna teach you what a healthy relationship looks like.

You already have.

What about another lesson?

I wouldn't say no.

Yeah, now we’re talking!

I always like spending time with you. You're safe.

I’m glad to be the safe person…

(Mutant looked up at Innkeeper, and there was only one thing they could say.)

I love you.

I love you too.

And I love past you because you wouldn't be here without her.

I hope your relationship with her will get better…

Me too. I'll try not to run away next time. Even if I'm scared.

…Sounds good.

I can't wait for you to be alive again...

Me too… me too…

Is it almost night yet?

Well, I went here at morning… it might have been a few hours… this would have been easier with a functioning clock…

It's about 3,526 measures to go, if that helps

…Ok… that… honestly doesn’t help at all, but… that sounds both close and far.

I could always play faster.

Heh… sounds like a plan! I’ll try to stay in this material plane for as long as possible!

(Minstrel started playing faster, and it did seem to make the time pass quicker, though whether it was real or an illusion was impossible to tell)

(Innkeeper just sat and watched, daydreaming about how she’ll be alive again…)

(Eventually the sun was set, and with a dramatic, flourishing ending, Minstrel's song completed. She looked around at Innkeeper and Mutant who had put their robe back on)

Now it's time to get to work.

Yeah… just… just in case… do you… know where… my dead body… is?

It's still in my apartment. Worry not, my love! You shall yet see the dawn's light!

(Minstrel ran off to the Professor's house)

(The spirit followed, still a little unsure about whether or not she needed to do anything.)

(Mutant also followed behind because why not)

I’m gonna… be alive… again… it’s great… so great…

(After a chat with the professor)

The good news is they'll do it! The bad news is, it won't be free. They want to study... Empath... if we agree to this, you'll be resurrected by morning.

…Well, it… can we… go to the inn first? I feel like this is something that might need some… time… to decide on…

(Innkeeper winked at Minstrel, hoping she got what she was trying to say.)

I know what you're referring to, but the Professor has their own method. Something that should deal with the... empath problems...

…Will it kill them?

No. No long term side affects, and as for short term... it's just... numbness and paralysis of the lower body for about an hour, plus general fatigue and weakness.

(Mutant seemed put on edge by the description of those symptoms)

Ok… and… one more question… Empath… are you… ok with this?

This... feels like a trap to me. But if you trust them... I can try...

…Ok… just… be careful… and remember… you’re the Empath… you have people who… who care… and love you… both as friends… and so much more…

Okay. I'll... I'll do it! I don't want you to be dead anymore.

…Thank you…

N-no prob!

(Mutant was literally shaking)

It’s… it’s ok… don’t… worry… I’m here… I’m here…

Can you keep watch to make sure they don't do anything to me?

I… I can’t guarantee anything, but… I’ll try…

Okay. Thank you.

(Mutant went inside the Professor's lab)

(The spirit, as she said, tried to keep watch any way she could. Though any windows, the door, or poking her head right through the walls.)

(Innkeeper… was not happy. In an instant, her demeanor changed, and she watched more closely… there was a fire in her eyes like no other… but for now, she had to keep watch.)

(Innkeeper didn’t wave back, but… she… did say one thing.)

Are you ok?

(Mutant gave a shaky thumbs-up)

Good… good.

(Professor didn't come back for at least another hour so Mutant was just kind of... stuck there...)

What was… all of that about? I feel like I have some clue, but I gotta make sure.

...What?

The experiments.

But still. I survived. I survived, and I've been through worse and been at the mercy of worse people...

(Mutant laughed anxiously)

I'm sure you'd still say I deserve better though! But it's fine. I know you... want to be alive.

Heh. Who knew... when I'm poisoned but... but can still think I just don't- don't know when to shut up...

…What. I can see now that you’re clearly not the Demon I’m looking for… But… they… poisoned you? To help cure a disease? And… resurrect… me?

(Mutant was talking to the wrong person! At least this time, she’s not yelling at them.)

You, Slayer. And the Innkeeper that... um? Shares your body?

I-It was payment, anyway. Y'know. Favor for a favor.

It was, yeah. And then Minstrel nominated her and got her executed. But ah, what do you mean by masking?

…Can I trust you enough to share it?

Well, heh. I doubt an evil player would volunteer for poisoning right after a minstrel day.

But you're still here...

We gotta work on that...

I can see why.

Hmm...

(Mutant twitched their foot slightly and noticed this, quickly putting their shirt and cloak back on)

How are you feeling? Innkeeper said I had to be nicer to you, so I have to check every now and then.

Thank you... for asking.

I hope the radiation didn’t mess with you too much.

Huh? Oh, no they were testing for radiation. Not exposing me to it. But thanks anyway.

That’s good.

(The Professor left the building and went with Minstrel to get Innkeeper's body)

(The spirit watched, before looking at her hands.)

What caused us to break? Was it because we… she was scared?

Fear breaks a lot of things.

I can see that.

I've been scared for a long time. As an Empath, of course, I feel everyone else's fears. Everyone has them.

Some people have less things to fear. Like me.

You're still afraid. Of trusting the wrong people and being hurt because of it.

Who told you that?

No one. Like I said, I'm the Empath. I know fear. It's the reason why you approach everyone like they could be the demon, right? I don't see any other reason for it.

That and the Cerenovus deaths are the only things I’m afraid of. You got that?

What about being poisoned by the evil team and having your slayer shot be for nothing? Or being Harpy mad about someone you know is innocent?

Coffee and apologies. And I don’t usually apologize.

You wouldn't be afraid at all?

No.

I think you're lying. To me, or to yourself. (Mutant said it casually, like it was no big deal)

I think you're like me, which is to say, scared a lot of the time. There's nothing wrong with it... but you choose to be angry instead.

…That’s not true.

I don't know for sure, but if it strikes a chord with you, think about why.

(Mutant shakily stood up from the lab table and carefully walked outside, using anything they could as a handhold to brace themself)

I’m not weak.

I never said you were. Fear keeps you alert, keeps you alive. That's not weakness.

Do you know who the fuck you’re talking to? Any vulnerability means I’m likely dead!

(And NOW here’s the Slayer rudeness!)

And yet I've survived many things, including an encounter with a demon years ago...

Because you’re not someone who has to protect their town.

Just because you don't show your fear doesn't mean it's not there.

I’m not scared.

Are you trying to convince me or yourself?

You. I already know.

Okay. I don't want to argue.

Good. Because I don’t want trouble either.

Good.

It’s been forever since I’ve had this much time out, and I can’t even do anything.

What do you usually do when you're... out?

Look for the Demon.

Were you the one that... um... stabbed Recluse?

Things get blurry after a while and sometimes in the present, but… most likely.

Do you still think they're evil?

Absolutely.

I do as well, with how much they were harassing me!

(Minstrel arrives with Professor, carrying Innkeeper's rigid body)

Oh my lord... I look awful.

(Mutant looked away)

Hopefully this should be quick. I don’t want to be eaten by maggots.

(Professor got started on the process, it took about an hour to get the body ready)

(The spirit was watching, trying to hide the fact that she was mildly disturbed by seeing her own dead body.)

(Soon enough the corpse was shocked back to life!)

I… we… I’m alive? Oh my lord!

Is that a white streak in your hair?

What? Let me see. Does anyone have a mirror?

I have one!

(Minstrel handed Innkeeper a compact mirror)

(Innkeeper opened the mirror and looked at herself.)

Huh, it seems like I do. Is this normal or…

Well, you did get electrocuted back to the land of the living! It seems pretty par for the course...

It's striking... but pretty.

Yeah, I… I like it. I think it fits me well.

I'm glad to hear that.

By the way… are there any side effects other than the hair thing? I’ll have to return to work someday…

I asked the professor about that, and apparently there aren't many that they know of other than just... static shocks?

Huh… seems a little weird… I always thought revival would be a little more harsh on the body.

Well, it's still a rather new science. Maybe there are things they haven't accounted for.

Yeah… maybe. I’m just… a little concerned.

It makes sense to be concerned, but you're alive! Isn't that worth celebrating?

Yeah! Yeah, it is! I’m… alive… I can live… I…

(After that, Innkeeper got into a bit of a coughing fit. Again. Did they clean the body?)

Perhaps you should have a bath first. I can't imagine being dead is very sanitary.

Yeah, I… probably should…

Your place or mine?

Yours, if it’s… hay free…

…This is still weird.

Wuh huh?

Yeah… I still don’t know what’s going on… inside of my head or anywhere else…

There's a lot I don't understand. But I still survive...

…Do you thrive?

When I'm with you...

Awww…

People are so complicated. I'm pretty simple though...

I kinda wish I was simple. I take one step into my head, and past me’s staring at me like I’m secretly the demon.

What? But... you know you're not the demon. There aren't any demons that don't know it...

Yeah, of course I’m not the demon! If I was, I’d be a terrible Innkeeper!

So why doesn't past you know it?

I… I don’t know…

Well you should tell her to stop being mean to my incredible partner Innkee!

……Maybe I should also tell her to stop being mean to you as well.

That would be nice!

…And she’s wondering what she did wrong the first time.

...not nice...

She… she wants more details. She claims that you two actually got along… somehow…

When she yelled "answer me"... that was scary...

A-and... when she asked if I was possessed...

…Yeah. I think that’d do it.

Mhm.

………You think she’d apologize by now…

It's okay. Not everyone is gonna like me. Most people don't...

That’s still pretty sad.

It doesn't have to be sad. It's just life. I've been accused of being a demon before...

It’s just… you deserve way better… abuse isn’t life… it’s just… wow…

Wow what?

As soon as I get revived, I’m gonna teach you what a healthy relationship looks like.

You already have.

What about another lesson?

I wouldn't say no.

Yeah, now we’re talking!

I always like spending time with you. You're safe.

I’m glad to be the safe person…

(Mutant looked up at Innkeeper, and there was only one thing they could say.)

I love you.

I love you too.

And I love past you because you wouldn't be here without her.

I hope your relationship with her will get better…

Me too. I'll try not to run away next time. Even if I'm scared.

…Sounds good.

I can't wait for you to be alive again...

Me too… me too…

Is it almost night yet?

Well, I went here at morning… it might have been a few hours… this would have been easier with a functioning clock…

It's about 3,526 measures to go, if that helps

…Ok… that… honestly doesn’t help at all, but… that sounds both close and far.

I could always play faster.

Heh… sounds like a plan! I’ll try to stay in this material plane for as long as possible!

(Minstrel started playing faster, and it did seem to make the time pass quicker, though whether it was real or an illusion was impossible to tell)

(Innkeeper just sat and watched, daydreaming about how she’ll be alive again…)

(Eventually the sun was set, and with a dramatic, flourishing ending, Minstrel's song completed. She looked around at Innkeeper and Mutant who had put their robe back on)

Now it's time to get to work.

Yeah… just… just in case… do you… know where… my dead body… is?

It's still in my apartment. Worry not, my love! You shall yet see the dawn's light!

(Minstrel ran off to the Professor's house)

(The spirit followed, still a little unsure about whether or not she needed to do anything.)

(Mutant also followed behind because why not)

I’m gonna… be alive… again… it’s great… so great…

(After a chat with the professor)

The good news is they'll do it! The bad news is, it won't be free. They want to study... Empath... if we agree to this, you'll be resurrected by morning.

…Well, it… can we… go to the inn first? I feel like this is something that might need some… time… to decide on…

(Innkeeper winked at Minstrel, hoping she got what she was trying to say.)

I know what you're referring to, but the Professor has their own method. Something that should deal with the... empath problems...

…Will it kill them?

No. No long term side affects, and as for short term... it's just... numbness and paralysis of the lower body for about an hour, plus general fatigue and weakness.

(Mutant seemed put on edge by the description of those symptoms)

Ok… and… one more question… Empath… are you… ok with this?

This... feels like a trap to me. But if you trust them... I can try...

…Ok… just… be careful… and remember… you’re the Empath… you have people who… who care… and love you… both as friends… and so much more…

Okay. I'll... I'll do it! I don't want you to be dead anymore.

…Thank you…

N-no prob!

(Mutant was literally shaking)

It’s… it’s ok… don’t… worry… I’m here… I’m here…

Can you keep watch to make sure they don't do anything to me?

I… I can’t guarantee anything, but… I’ll try…

Okay. Thank you.

(Mutant went inside the Professor's lab)

(The spirit, as she said, tried to keep watch any way she could. Though any windows, the door, or poking her head right through the walls.)

(Innkeeper… was not happy. In an instant, her demeanor changed, and she watched more closely… there was a fire in her eyes like no other… but for now, she had to keep watch.)

(Innkeeper didn’t wave back, but… she… did say one thing.)

Are you ok?

(Mutant gave a shaky thumbs-up)

Good… good.

(Professor didn't come back for at least another hour so Mutant was just kind of... stuck there...)

What was… all of that about? I feel like I have some clue, but I gotta make sure.

...What?

The experiments.

But still. I survived. I survived, and I've been through worse and been at the mercy of worse people...

(Mutant laughed anxiously)

I'm sure you'd still say I deserve better though! But it's fine. I know you... want to be alive.

Heh. Who knew... when I'm poisoned but... but can still think I just don't- don't know when to shut up...

…What. I can see now that you’re clearly not the Demon I’m looking for… But… they… poisoned you? To help cure a disease? And… resurrect… me?

(Mutant was talking to the wrong person! At least this time, she’s not yelling at them.)

You, Slayer. And the Innkeeper that... um? Shares your body?

I-It was payment, anyway. Y'know. Favor for a favor.

It was, yeah. And then Minstrel nominated her and got her executed. But ah, what do you mean by masking?

…Can I trust you enough to share it?

Well, heh. I doubt an evil player would volunteer for poisoning right after a minstrel day.

But you're still here...

We gotta work on that...

I can see why.

Hmm...

(Mutant twitched their foot slightly and noticed this, quickly putting their shirt and cloak back on)

How are you feeling? Innkeeper said I had to be nicer to you, so I have to check every now and then.

Thank you... for asking.

I hope the radiation didn’t mess with you too much.

Huh? Oh, no they were testing for radiation. Not exposing me to it. But thanks anyway.

That’s good.

(The Professor left the building and went with Minstrel to get Innkeeper's body)

(The spirit watched, before looking at her hands.)

What caused us to break? Was it because we… she was scared?

Fear breaks a lot of things.

I can see that.

I've been scared for a long time. As an Empath, of course, I feel everyone else's fears. Everyone has them.

Some people have less things to fear. Like me.

You're still afraid. Of trusting the wrong people and being hurt because of it.

Who told you that?

No one. Like I said, I'm the Empath. I know fear. It's the reason why you approach everyone like they could be the demon, right? I don't see any other reason for it.

That and the Cerenovus deaths are the only things I’m afraid of. You got that?

What about being poisoned by the evil team and having your slayer shot be for nothing? Or being Harpy mad about someone you know is innocent?

Coffee and apologies. And I don’t usually apologize.

You wouldn't be afraid at all?

No.

I think you're lying. To me, or to yourself. (Mutant said it casually, like it was no big deal)

I think you're like me, which is to say, scared a lot of the time. There's nothing wrong with it... but you choose to be angry instead.

…That’s not true.

I don't know for sure, but if it strikes a chord with you, think about why.

(Mutant shakily stood up from the lab table and carefully walked outside, using anything they could as a handhold to brace themself)

I’m not weak.

I never said you were. Fear keeps you alert, keeps you alive. That's not weakness.

Do you know who the fuck you’re talking to? Any vulnerability means I’m likely dead!

(And NOW here’s the Slayer rudeness!)

And yet I've survived many things, including an encounter with a demon years ago...

Because you’re not someone who has to protect their town.

Just because you don't show your fear doesn't mean it's not there.

I’m not scared.

Are you trying to convince me or yourself?

You. I already know.

Okay. I don't want to argue.

Good. Because I don’t want trouble either.

Good.

It’s been forever since I’ve had this much time out, and I can’t even do anything.

What do you usually do when you're... out?

Look for the Demon.

Were you the one that... um... stabbed Recluse?

Things get blurry after a while and sometimes in the present, but… most likely.

Do you still think they're evil?

Absolutely.

I do as well, with how much they were harassing me!

(Minstrel arrives with Professor, carrying Innkeeper's rigid body)

Oh my lord... I look awful.

(Mutant looked away)

Hopefully this should be quick. I don’t want to be eaten by maggots.

(Professor got started on the process, it took about an hour to get the body ready)

(The spirit was watching, trying to hide the fact that she was mildly disturbed by seeing her own dead body.)

(Soon enough the corpse was shocked back to life!)

I… we… I’m alive? Oh my lord!

Is that a white streak in your hair?

What? Let me see. Does anyone have a mirror?

I have one!

(Minstrel handed Innkeeper a compact mirror)

(Innkeeper opened the mirror and looked at herself.)

Huh, it seems like I do. Is this normal or…

Well, you did get electrocuted back to the land of the living! It seems pretty par for the course...

It's striking... but pretty.

Yeah, I… I like it. I think it fits me well.

I'm glad to hear that.

By the way… are there any side effects other than the hair thing? I’ll have to return to work someday…

I asked the professor about that, and apparently there aren't many that they know of other than just... static shocks?

Huh… seems a little weird… I always thought revival would be a little more harsh on the body.

Well, it's still a rather new science. Maybe there are things they haven't accounted for.

Yeah… maybe. I’m just… a little concerned.

It makes sense to be concerned, but you're alive! Isn't that worth celebrating?

Yeah! Yeah, it is! I’m… alive… I can live… I…

(After that, Innkeeper got into a bit of a coughing fit. Again. Did they clean the body?)

Perhaps you should have a bath first. I can't imagine being dead is very sanitary.

Yeah, I… probably should…