Terra:
“What sort of land are you interested in? Is there a specific location in town you want?”
Ariel:
“Well, I’m planning to make a place for some other people, so it might be best to consult with them. Sam? Do you think you could go and gather all your friends so we can discuss this together?”
Sam:
“Sure! Let’s meet in the alley where I first introduced you to them.”
Ariel:
“Agreed.”
As I walked towards where I’d first met Sam’s friends, I decided to try talking with Terra a little.
Ariel:
“What’s it like working for Fen?”
Terra:
“Well, I’m sure you’re aware of the benefits of being with a monster lord. The improved growth speed is amazing. I hope someday I can surpass him, but I know it’s unlikely. The monster lords are so far beyond us, that catching up seems impossible. However, we followers do have lots of contests. We fight a lot, fuck a lot, and eat a lot. It’s a lot of fun... and we all grow in power way faster than we would on our own in the wild. I really have no complaints. You envious?”
Ariel:
“No, I do wish I could grow in power faster, but I don’t wish to serve him. I’m really not suited for fighting anyway.”
Terra:
“I can tell. Unlimited cloning techniques are never worth the cost. You give up far too much power for it.”
Ariel:
“I hope to avoid fights.”
Terra:
“Talking like that makes you sound like a plant or spirit. Those are the ones who avoid fights. They are the weakest monster types for a reason, you know. Fights are a great way to speed up power growth, and if you don’t grow fast, you’ll never be able to catch up with those above you. Though, having convinced Fen to keep a clone of you near him at all times, you’ll probably gain power pretty fast anyway.”
Boy:
“Ariel! You’re here!”
Ariel:
“Hey.”
Boy:
“Who’s this?”
Ariel:
“This is Terra. She’s going to help us obtain a house.”
Boy:
“You’re going to buy a house? For us? Wha, how can you afford that? Are you rich?”
Ariel:
“Well, I negotiated with the lord. I wanted to gather everyone together so we can figure out what place is best together.”
Terra:
“I’m amazed halflings exist. Didn’t think humans and monsters could breed with each other.”
Ariel:
“Apparently they aren’t as different as had been assumed.”
