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File 132864208737.jpg - (238.47KB , 850x850 , 98309ecc5b81a63e10229684e6c8f50a.jpg ) [iqdb]
153169 No. 153169
~ Year 2, Spring 1 January 1 – Morning

With a groan, you weakly open your eyes, squinting up at the dark ceiling above you. Although there was little light in the room, you could tell it wasn't your own room – the ceiling in here was much too high. Carefully easing yourself up to a sitting position, the aches in your body trying to prevent you otherwise, you take a quick look about your surroundings.

While the room was incredibly fancy by your own standards – filled with expensive looking wooden furniture and a large window dominating one side of the room (the blinds were drawn shut, hence the lack of light) – Remilia always insisted it was nothing special, and you always denied her requests to stay in the more luxurious rooms.

Now that you were seated, and your head no longer comfortably resting on pillows, it decided to remind you that you had been drinking far too much the past few nights, by feeling like small faeries were bashing your head with wooden mallets. You never were much of a drinker, but it seemed drinking heavily of sake was tradition in Gensokyo for any sort of party, even if that party had lasted until New Year's Eve. You'd probably gone home a lot sooner with Yuuka, but Remilia insisted you stay the entire time, and you couldn't bring yourself to disappoint her – that and Yuuka didn't seem to mind, noting there wasn't much for her to do in the winter anyway.

Ignoring your headache and body aches, you carefully moved to the edge of the bed, carefully placing your bare feet to the floor before standing and stretching. On the nightstand you noticed a tray with a filled cup of water, a pitcher (likely full of water), and some muffins. You don't recall that being there before you went to sleep, but more then likely Sakuya had only just delivered it within the past few minutes or so – the muffins were still warm.

Helping yourself to the water and muffin, you take a moment to think over the past few days. As far as you could tell the only guests left in the mansion was yourself and Yuuka, everyone else had probably gone home after the party was over considering ingesting enough sake to kill a liver seemed to be routine for them. The more you thought about it, you had to wonder why Remilia seemed so insist to keep you away from home for so -

“Excuse me, miss Reina. Would you mind if I enter?” spoke the familiar voice of Sakuya when she knocked on the door.

Taking a quick moment to look yourself over, ensuring you looked decent, you walked to the door before opening it, “Not at all Sakuya, what can I do for you?” you asked cheerfully, despite the light coming in from the hallway making your head throb.

The head maid eased her way into the room, carefully closing the door behind her to spare you the offending light, “I wanted to ensure you were awake miss Reina,” she glanced to the nightstand, “and I see the treats were to your liking. I suspected you would feel a bit... uncomfortable this morning.”

“It's still only morning? Well, I guess at least I didn't sleep clear into noon...”

Sakuya pulled out her pocketwatch, flicking it open before snapping it shut, “It's almost nine in the morning miss Reina, quite a bit earlier then your first night here. I do believe I woke you up at around three in the afternoon that day? And you were quite stubborn as well as I recall, insisting that you wish to remain in bed the entire day.”

You groan and shook your head, “Don't remind me. I swear Sakuya, you act all professional and polite, but you have the most unusual way of teasing people like that, don't you?”

“Perhaps, perhaps.” replied the maid with a light smile, “Miss Yuuka has already awoke and apologizes that she had to leave early this morning, she explained there were matters that required her attention at home. She did say she would return in the afternoon to collect you and bring you back home, so until then, I insist you remain in our hospitality.”

“I've been living off your hospitality for nearly a week or more now, haven't I? However, I get the feeling it was less a question and more of a statement...”

Sakuya only smiled in response, “Lady Remilia wishes to see you, however, before we do that...” she gave you an appraising look, “I think we can spend some time to freshen you up first. It seems a week or so of partying is not doing wonders for you.”

You chuckle weakly and rub the back of your head in embarrassment, “Er, yeah I suppose so. I guess you kind of forget some things when you're trying to spend as much time with friends as you can...”

“How about a bath this morning then miss Reina? While you are doing that, I can attend to your clothing... perhaps give you a hand with your hair? I cannot imagine it is too easy to do on your own.”

“Er, well not as hard as it looks, really. You can kind of get used to it but, ah I suppose I can keep the offer in mind...” you respond sheepishly.

Sakuya extended an arm towards the door, “Follow me then miss Reina, I'll lead you to the bath. Do you perhaps want any scented oils or anything like that? While Lady Remilia considers you a friend, I know you don't often enjoy taking much advantage of her hospitality, but perhaps you can treat yourself today?” suggested the maid with a smile.

- - -

[ ] Well, you suppose you could use some... (write-in for bath)
- [ ] And afterwords, maybe you'd like that offer of help.
[ ] A normal bath will be fine.
- [ ] Sakuya can help with your hair though.
[ ] Other? (write-in)

- - -

Oh shit. I'm writing. No really I am. I'll even try to update once a day! Real life circumstances not getting in the way of course. I'm still looking for a job and all that, and I have volunteer work that I've been voluntold to do, blah blah blah.

Maybe this time I won't have this “nervous breakdown” some of you said I had last time...
114 posts omitted. Last 50 shown. Expand all images
>> No. 155025
[X] Not really, you just wanted to see her.
- [X] Offer to let Yuuka pick an activity?

Yuukahn~

Yeah, go with seasons instead of proper months. That will let things move at a reasonable pace.
>> No. 155033
[X] Not really, you just wanted to see her.
- [X] Offer to let Yuuka pick an activity?

It's Yuuka. I am sure she will pick something...entertaining.
>> No. 155035
[X] Not really, you just wanted to see her.
- [X] Offer to let Yuuka pick an activity?
>> No. 155400
File 133416825437.jpg - (197.25KB , 1280x1024 , 08e6df8396ba0514bf945aee5babc38c.jpg ) [iqdb]
155400
[X] Not really, you just wanted to see her.
- [X] Offer to let Yuuka pick an activity?

- - -

You shake your head and offer a smile, “I just wanted to come see you Yuuka, that's not a problem is it? Didn't really think far beyond the whole 'meet' part though...”

“I see, I appreciate the thought little flower. As the host then, I shall need to decide upon the entertainment... it has been some time since I've been in here. Perhaps after some tea, I shall give you a small tour – it shall help refresh my memory.”

“I didn't even know you had a place like this Yuuka, I mean, I always figured you had a place to stay but... nothing quite like this.”

The green-haired youkai nodded, “I am not surprised, I do not often come here, nor discuss it. In fact, I would prefer it remain that way.” she stare at Aya as she said that, “Do I make myself clear, crow?”

Aya flinched slightly and nodded, “Er, yes crystal clear. Not a word, won't even mention it. Just, uhm... ah... n-nice place.”

Before the mood could dampen anymore, Elly entered the room carrying a tray, on which there was a tea pot and three cups. The blonde-haired girl set the tray upon the table before pouring the tea.

“Thank you Elly. I see you did not include a cup for yourself, will you be returning to your duties then?” asked the flower youkai, taking a sip of her tea.

“If you don't mind. I'll be outside if you need me Yuuka.”

As Elly left the room, you swore you saw her cast a cold glance in your direction, but you weren't certain – and she quickly left the room anyway.

“Uhm, just who is that exactly, Yuuka?” you ask curiously.

“The gatekeeper, Elly. I suppose she also doubles as a maid, given she cares for the mansion during my absence and I do not actually have anyone else in my employ. She performs her job quite admirably I must say. I trust the tea is to your liking, little flower?”

“Of course! Reminds me of the tea you made for me before...”

Yuuka nodded her head, “It most likely is. It is the only kind of tea I drink, so I do not expect we have any other types in the mansion. It has not been long since we last met, but tell me how your days have been? When we finish the tea, I shall give you a tour, then I'll see about arranging some suitable entertainment.”

~

Yuuka's mansion was much more inviting them Remilia's, and considerably easier to find your way around. Still, it was also quite obvious that Yuuka's was also much smaller – despite seeming to look about the same size on the outside. Although the windows were very inviting, and provided some nice sunlight and view of the surroundings, the mansion still felt very empty and lonely – it was quite obvious very few people ever stayed here at any given time, and the lack of maids or anyone beyond yourself, Aya, and Yuuka just was a bit unnerving.

“Perhaps you would like to look in the library Reina? I can't imagine it contains anything that is not at the vampire's library... but who knows?”

“Well, why not? It can't hurt to look after all.” you say with a smile, “If I remember right, the library was... down this hall, and through that door...?”

Compared to the Voile library, Yuuka's was considerably smaller – and the walls didn't seem to be made of bookcases either. Still, you had to guess there was hundreds of books in here... far too many to look through in a reasonable timeframe.

Yuuka seemed to realize the problem and gestured towards a book laid out on a nearby table – it was a directory. Upon closer inspection of the shelves you noticed they were all labeled, and the directory helpfully told you what books were contained within that section.

“You have quite the collection in here Yuuka... you don't mind if I take a look, do you?” asked the tengu carefully,

The flower youkai shrugged, “Feel free. If you find something you like, I will let you borrow it... just remember to not let anyone know where you got it from.”

“Hey Yuuka, why do some of these books in this listing have a little symbol by them?”

“While most of the books in this library are mundane and normal, not all of them are. Some of them are quite old, perhaps even ancient. Possibly magical, I'm not sure. Either way, they are too fragile to leave this library... without proper measures taken, they're liable to fall apart outside of library's walls – you can't tell, but there is a bit of magic at work here.

“Simply put, if you wish to borrow anything that isn't a mundane, normal book I will need to work some magic to allow you to borrow it. However, I can only at best do this for two, maybe three books. The workings of why is complicated and not important, don't question it little flower.”

Well, who were you to question the ways of magic... turning your attention back to the listing...

- - -

May as well pick a book, or two... (Pick at at most two)
[ ] “Advanced Magics”
[ ] “Magic for Cooking”
[ ] “Secrets of Wood”
[ ] “Working the Metal”
[ ] “Of Plants and Flowers”
[ ] “Ancient Grimoires and Texts”
[ ] “Legend of Dragons”
[ ] “An Innocent Book”
[ ] Maybe you won't pick any after all...
- Well, now then...
[ ] Take your leave, thank Yuuka for her time
- [ ] Go where? (write-in)
[ ] Spend more time here!
- [ ] Let Yuuka pick another activity (write-in)
- [ ] Suggest something for you, Yuuka, and Aya to do (write-in)
[ ] Other?
>> No. 155417
So just idlely..are we interested in Yuuka romanticly?
>> No. 155420
[x] “An Innocent Book”

Because it sounds suspicious.


>So just idlely..are we interested in Yuuka romanticly?
I'd like to know that too.
>> No. 155442
File 133419881243.jpg - (521.63KB , 900x900 , The Perfect Gift.jpg ) [iqdb]
155442
>>155420
Of course we are. We just need to find Yuuka the right sort of present to make our intentions clear.
>> No. 155446
[x] “Secrets of Wood”
[x] “Working the Metal”

Job relevant books
>> No. 155453
[x] “Magic for Cooking”
[x] “Secrets of Wood”

Weren't we gunning for Reimu before?
>> No. 155481
[x] “Secrets of Wood”
[x] “Working the Metal”

The obvious option is that we must seduce both Reimu and Yuuka.
>> No. 155487
>>155481
The more obvious solution is we must get Reimu to seduce Yuuka.
>> No. 155490
[x] “Magic for Cooking”
[x] “Working the Metal”

I always assumed we were aiming for Yuuka.
>> No. 155492
[x] “Secrets of Wood”
[x] “Working the Metal”

Wait, when was that ever in doubt?
>> No. 155502
>>155487
That's step 2.
>> No. 155505
[X] “Secrets of Wood”
[X] "An Innocent Book"

With a title like that...

[X] Spend more time here!
-[X] Have a chat with Yuuka. She seems to have quite a few magical books... How did she become interested in magic in the first place?

Gotta learn about our future spouse.
>> No. 155506
[X] “Secrets of Wood”
[X] "An Innocent Book"

[x]Let Yuuka pick an activity.
>> No. 155509
>>155502
No, Step 2 involves bikinis and baby oil.
>> No. 155550
I'm just going to throw this out there.
>>155505
>>155506
Are the only votes that remembered there's a second half to the vote in this case.

(I have enough votes for the books, but we kind of have a tie going on in what to do AFTER the books)
>> No. 155558
>>155550
I used a random number generator to decide which one to second to break the tie.

[X] >>155505
>> No. 155560
>>155420 here.
Adding
[x] Spend more time here!
- [x] Suggest something for you, Yuuka, and Aya to do (Continue visiting the house while talking about men)

In the /at/ stories, Reina is a sex fiend. I want to hear her talk about kinky stuff, for comedy purpose only.
>> No. 155572
>>155560
>>In the /at/ stories
This isn't /at/.
>> No. 155574
File 133457580915.jpg - (59.65KB , 808x500 , Captain_Obvious.jpg ) [iqdb]
155574
>>155572
Thank you Captain Obvious.
>> No. 155576
File 133458266951.png - (17.49KB , 353x199 , OrIsIt.png ) [iqdb]
155576
>>155572

Are you sure?
>> No. 155577
File 133458338716.jpg - (40.58KB , 600x400 , looks-shopped.jpg ) [iqdb]
155577
>>155576
Seems legit.
>> No. 155596
File 133465451483.jpg - (20.65KB , 485x236 , it's not shopped.jpg ) [iqdb]
155596
>>155577
It's totally legit.
>> No. 155603
File 133467009555.gif - (596.61KB , 320x192 , At.gif ) [iqdb]
155603
>>155596
Yep. Totally legit.
>> No. 155611
Tengu reporting at its finest.
>> No. 155782
File 133529464724.jpg - (52.43KB , 850x722 , sample-e80cbceb0a0ed5409f63517c28ced308.jpg ) [iqdb]
155782
[X] “Secrets of Wood”
[X] “Working the Metal”

[X] Spend more time here!
-[X] Have a chat with Yuuka. She seems to have quite a few magical books... How did she become interested in magic in the first place?

- - -

Yuuka peers over your shoulder as you select the books from the list, nodding her head, “Very well little flower, they're yours. I would ask you take good care of them, but I'm certain you would do that anyway. Now give me a moment to find them and prepare them, it shouldn't take long.”

“Want me to come with you?” you ask with a smile.

The flower youkai shrugs, “I do not mind Reina. I know where the books are already, but if you wish to browse the shelves as I collect them and perform the magic, that is up to you. I will find you when I'm finished.”

With that she disappeared into the shelves, her footsteps fading away quickly. Well, you didn't feel like just standing around twiddling your thumbs, so maybe you would just look at the spines of some books to pass the time...

You picked an aisle of books at random and started to walk down it, looking at the titles on the spines – 'All about High School', 'Missing Thanksgiving', 'Teaching Woodworking', 'Trick or Treat, you're the Treat!', 'Missed Summer Too?', 'Something about Wine...'

“... These are weird books. I think I'm just going to go wait instead...”

~ Year 2, January Spring 3 – Afternoon

Yuuka presented the books to you, carefully tucked away into a bag, and led you and Aya back to the guest room. While you didn't see what the tengu had selected, it seemed to just be normal books – at least, judging by the magical book limit thing.

You noticed as you walked past the windows that the sun was climbing higher into the sky, you had spent a lot more time here then you thought... still, you liked being around Yuuka, so you didn't particularly mind. As the three of you idlely chatted, whilst drinking tea, a question popped into your mind.

“Why do you have so many magical books anyway Yuuka? I mean, well... you're not a magician like Patchouli, right?”

Yuuka nodded her head, “Correct. I would not say I collected them on purpose, I merely... happened to amass a collection over the years. Mostly from acquiring them from humans, many of them have no use for the books and are willing to trade them for more useful things, such as food or currency. I spend much of my time out, so I have not actually read many of the book I own. I just like collecting some, I suppose.”

“You have quite the impressive collection though. I don't have much to compare it to, aside from what I hear about the Voile's, but many of the books you own seem quite old and rare, if I had more time I'd like to be able to read more of them sometime.” commented Aya, patting the bookbag she had gotten, “Of course, these will occupy me for now.”

“What kind of books did you pick out anyway Aya?” you ask curiously.

The tengu flashed a grin, “That's my little secret Reina, you'll just have to wait and see.”

“It has been a pleasure seeing you Reina, but I apologize... it is starting to get late, and I have some things I should do before the sun sets. After all, spring is the time for the flowers to bloom, and I have to make sure they'll bloom beautifully this year as always. Feel free to see me whenever you feel like it, of course... although, you'll have to find me first. I'm afraid I cannot say for certain where I will be on a given day.” she flashed you a smile, “Still, I'm sure you have a general idea. Have a good day Reina.”

“Thank you for your time Yuuka, I'm sorry I should've thought you'd had some things you had to do today... thanks for the books as well. You're free to come by my house when you want to as well.”

“Well then! I'll make sure Reina gets home, safe and quickly. Thanks for the books Yuuka, and for the tea, it's pretty good.”

The flower youkai merely nodded to the tengu before excusing herself, trusting the two of you knew your way out of the mansion – which you did. You didn't see Elly on the way out, and it was an uneventful Aya-flight back to your house.

Heading on inside – noting Aya had invited herself in as usual – you noticed Limstella was still gone, well she did say it might take her a while to do all that paperwork and... such. Still, she'd probably be home fairly soon...

“Hey Reina, you want to do anything? I appreciate you letting me hang around and all, but if you don't have anything in mind I think I'll head on home and start reading one of my books. I guess I also feel I might be kind of, er... forcing myself into your freetime? Ahahaha...”

- - -

Do you actually have anything in mind?
[ ] Well... maybe... (write-in)
[ ] Nope, drawing a blank. Thank Aya for her time.
- [ ] Invite her to drop by tomorrow?
[ ] Other? (write-in)
After deciding about Aya...
[ ] Maybe you'll read one of your books... (Pick one)
[ ] You haven't had any work in a while, but maybe you'll just go make something for fun.
[ ] Cook some dinner and wait for Limstella.
[ ] Other (write-in)

I'm too easily distracted. That is all.
>> No. 155784
[x] Nope, drawing a blank. Thank Aya for her time.
- [x] Invite her to drop by tomorrow?

I dunno, keeping her around seems forced.

[x] You haven't had any work in a while, but maybe you'll just go make something for fun.

Nothing funnier than doing things for shit and giggles without anything serious in mind. Just follow your own instinct.
>> No. 155907
Just to, ah, throw this out there so you all don't have to worry.

I may have an update tomorrow. Or Monday.

Why the delay? GW2 beta weekend. Sorry.
>> No. 156118
[X] Well... maybe...
-[X] You have gotten kind of used to having someone to sleep with at night...

[X] You haven't had any work in a while, but maybe you'll just go make something for fun.
-[X] Maybe Aya would like something? Or... maybe you could think of something to make for Yuuka...

Friendship gaems.
>> No. 156144
[X] Well... maybe...
-[X] You have gotten kind of used to having someone to sleep with at night...

[x] You haven't had any work in a while, but maybe you'll just go make something for fun.

-[X] Maybe Aya would like something? Or... maybe you could think of something to make for Yuuka...

Or you could just make something for both of them.
>> No. 156160
File 133611194073.jpg - (421.55KB , 777x1078 , 18989bcae2ed40d8b2fe416aa4533396.jpg ) [iqdb]
156160
[X] Well... maybe...
-[X] You have gotten kind of used to having someone to sleep with at night...

[X] You haven't had any work in a while, but maybe you'll just go make something for fun.
-[X] Maybe Aya would like something? Or... maybe you could think of something to make for Yuuka...

- - -

You flash Aya a reassuring smile, “Don't worry about it, I appreciate the company. If anything, I should apologize for taking time out of your day, I mean you have the Bunbunmaru paper to run after all...”

“It is a bit stressful some days, but I like to think I excel under pressure.” the tengu puffed out her chest in pride, “Besides, you help me get some good ideas of articles to write, and I like to think youkai like to read the interviews. And hey, it works out as some free advertising for your shop, eh?”

“Good point, more business will always be nice. But ah, back to the topic at hand... well, uhm... this might sound a bit odd, but er...” your face reddens a bit in embarrassment, “could you maybe stay over tonight? I uh, kind of like having someone over at night, so erm...”

Aya laughs and pats you on the back, “No problem at all! It's a bit too early to sleep right now, so I'll just get started on my book until then. Might swing by home and get some clothes to change into, but we'll see, we'll see. Thanks for the offer Reina.”

“Just, uh... d-don't write about it. In the meantime,” you glance out at the window, “there's a good amount of daytime left so I think I'll busy myself with a project. I'll be in the workshop if you need me.”

It had been a while since you had any actual work, what with the whole holidays and all... still, you were hoping business would pick up soon. After all, with the whole Mon thing, you really didn't have all that much money to spare. Could be a good time to just get some rust off your skills, and maybe make something nice to give to a friend.

As you looked for a good piece of lumber to work with, you silently had to thank Yukari for whatever she did to secure you this seemingly neverending supply of lumber – if you had to buy your own materials you could only imagine how much your costs would go up. Then again, you only did seem to have this limitless supply of basic lumbers – oak, maple, ash, and the like – but nothing all that fancy... guess you would have to get your hands on more exotic, or luxurious materials.

Maybe you could make Aya a small shelf for her new books... perhaps something for Yuuka to thank her for the books as well? Maybe a small wooden planter... it was early in the day, so maybe you could even do both! Well, you wouldn't get anywhere just thinking about it, better get to work...

~ Year 2, Spring 3 – Evening

“Excuse me, Mistress Roots?”

“Oh, Limstella. Didn't know you came back, what is it?”

The maid curtseyed, before gesturing off to the side, “I have brought Scrap, the paperwork took longer then expected. Would you like to meet her?”

“Of course! Just let me tidy up a bit...” you say, starting to put your tools back, “Oh! Ah, before I forget, I'm having Aya stay the night, could you see if she needs anything? I think she's upstairs. It'll only take me a few moments...”

Limstella curtseyed once more, then departed. Both projects were rather simple, although you wanted to install the shelf yourself, and the planter only needed a few more finishing touches. You'd probably finish it up before you went to sleep. After tidying up your workshop, you headed towards the store front, where you assumed Limstella would leave Scrap.

Turns out, you guessed right. You found Scrap standing in the middle of the room, looking around with a vague hint of interest, but mostly boredom. Upon seeing you, she immediately flashed a grin and bounced towards you, extending her hand.

“Ah, you gotta be the boss here! Didn't hear much about you, but your maid there filled out the papers and all that, so guess I'm working for you now. It's nice to meet you boss, I'm Scrap.”

Scrap had a surprisingly strong grip, for a fairy, as you shook her hand, returning the smile, “It's nice to meet you as well. I'm not sure if Limstella said anything, but I'm Reina Roots.”

Scrap nodded, “Not a bad name. And nah, she didn't say much really, she seems to be a very business-oriented fairy, she's kind of weird I say... ah! Don't tell her I said that though!”

This fairy was pretty different from Limstella. Where as Limstella had rather long hair, that looked well cared for, Scrap's hair (while also long) looked much more wild, and dirty. Understandably, she didn't wear a maid's uniform either, and instead was wearing little more then a rather worn-out looking dress – it looked like it had been patched numerous times as well, and looked a bit burnt. You somehow got the impression this hiring place was really giving you the scraps at the bottom of the barrel...

“Yes, I suppose I am a bit unusual for a fairy.” commented Limstella, having now just returned from upstairs, “But pay it no mind, after all I'm only interested in the results of your work, and not what you think of me. As you two have been introduced, I will give Scrap a quick tour of where she will be staying, along with the workshop. If you will excuse me Mistress Roots.”

With Limstella caring for your new employee, you decided to go see how Aya was doing. You figured she would be in your room, and you were right. She seemed quite engrossed in reading her book, but still heard you open the door, and gave you a smile as she set the book aside.

“I'm sure I've said this before, but you've got a really nice place. Bit small, but still pretty comfy. I think I'll stick around long enough for some breakfast in the morning, if you don't mind.”

“Not at all! I love cooking for people. I made you a shelf for your books, it's all ready I just kind of want to install it myself.”

“Really? Well, I appreciate the thought, although you really didn't have too. If you want, I can bring you over to my house tomorrow, but let's leave that for tomorrow, eh?” the tengu looked out the window, “Boy, time sure flies... didn't realize it was so dark out already. If you don't mind, can I use your bathroom? I'd like to take a bath before I go to bed is all.”

“Sure, I don't mind. I think I'll go see how Limstella and Scrap are doing... probably finish up my little project, then I'll take a bath myself and go to bed.”

Aya nodded in acknowledgment, heading into the bathroom as you left the room to see what your two faeries were up too. It seemed while you were speaking to Aya, they had already toured the room upstairs, as you found them both downstairs in the workshop, with Limstella just finishing up an explanation to Scrap.

“Oi, boss! You don't have a bad place here really, but ah... I kind of have a question.” she gestured around your workshop in general, “I mean, this place is nice and all but ah... doesn't really seemed all that well suited to my particular talent, you know? There's a lot of wood in here, but I don't really see anything else...”

Oh. Well, that was a pretty good point.

“Well, I was kind of thinking less of hiring someone to compliment what I know, and more of hiring someone different... I could expand my opportunities then, maybe get some more business.”

The metalworker rubbed her chin, “I see... well, I guess that kind of makes sense... well, whatever. I can do whatever ya need me to do, I just felt like voicing my thoughts there. Since it's kinda late and all, I guess I'll get a good night's sleep.”

Limstella watched the other fairy leave, before looking to you and shrugging, “I do apologize Mistress Roots, but as I mentioned, the agency is not keen to hire out their more... skilled workers to people they do not know. I'm afraid she's about the best you'll get until then. Although I agree, we are not particularly set up for her area of expertise, it should be no problem. I do not suspect we will get any sort of orders that an unskilled fairy couldn't handle, and if it falls within your area of expertise, well, she will probably not need to do anything.

“Of course, having her do work she is not skilled in, will make her better at it but... well, I leave all that to you Mistress Roots. You tell us what to do, and I shall ensure it gets done. I must attend to some paperwork of my own, please have a good night Mistress Roots.”

Well... guess you may as well finish that planter, then take a bath and get some rest. Shouldn't take you more then an hour, and hopefully you wouldn't wake up Aya if she's already asleep.

After finishing your planter, you quietly peeked into your own room – you found Aya awake on the bed, a lamp turned on so she could read the book. She notes you and waves lazily in your direction.

“Go ahead, take a bath first. I figured it'd be a bit rude if I went to sleep and denied you a bath, since I figured you wouldn't want to wake me up. You have a very nice bath by the way.”

You chuckle and rub your head, “Well, I appreciate the gesture, but you didn't have to stay up on my account... I'll just take a real quick bath then...”

“Take your time, take your time. Sleep is nice and all, but I don't need all that much of it.” replied the tengu dismissively.

Still, you didn't want to keep Aya up longer then you had to, so you ended up taking a rather quick bath anyway. The crow was still awake, reading her book by lamplight. Upon seeing you exit the bathroom, she slipped a bookmark in place before laying the book aside. She looked to you, then formed her hands into a square shape and flashed you a grin.

“That would make a great picture, fresh out of the bath! And with your hair down, even. You have some surprisingly long hair, Reina... though, I guess with that hairstyle, you actually do have some rather long hair. Maybe you should try wearing it down more often, it looks good.”

You blush at her praise, “T-thanks. I'm just really used to putting my hair up is all... erm, anyway... g-good night Aya. I'll make you some breakfast in the morning.”

“I'll be looking forward to it. Good night, and thanks for letting me stay the night.”

It didn't take you too long to drift off into restful sleep... before you did, you had the distinct feeling of the tengu sleeping rather close to you. She was kind of warm...

~ Year 2, Spring 4 – Morning

Come morning, you found one of Aya's arms lazily draped over your waist, and the tengu still asleep. Carefully removing yourself from the bed, without waking her, you take a moment to tuck her in before heading downstairs to make breakfast. To your surprise, Limstella was already in the kitchen – she had even laid out some of the utensils and ingredients already.

“Good morning Mistress Roots. I trust you wish to prepare breakfast yourself?” asks the fairy, receiving a nod in response, “Very well. If you will excuse me, I need to prepare some papers for you to view, we have some requests.”

Limstella curtseyed before leaving the kitchen. The prospect of some work was appealing, but for now you had to focus on breakfast – you were sure once you started cooking, Aya and Scrap would wake up. You kind of felt like an omelet today... perhaps with some cheese? It was too early in the year to have any fresh fruits or vegetables, so you guessed that would have to do for now.

It didn't take long for you to hear noises from upstairs, followed by Aya poking her head into the kitchen. There was something kind of cute about seeing her with her hair messy...

“That smells reaallllly good Reina. Will it be much longer?” she asks curiously.

“Not too much more. If you like, take a seat. I'm not sure what you want to drink, but we have some orange juice in the fridge, or I can make you some tea.”

“Some OJ sounds pretty good. Thanks.”

Before much longer, Scrap found her way downstairs and then a short while later you invited Limstella to sit as well. While you could see she had a clipboard with her, she agreed to sit down and eat breakfast with all of you before discussing it. It made you feel pretty good having all these friends to eat with... it was the first time you had the table full of people like this.

Following breakfast Aya excused herself to take a bath, while Scrap departed to await instructions. Limstella placed the clipboard on the table.

“Not too many requests, but that is to be expected. It is up to you to pick what you think we can handle, or none at all if that is what you wish. I only suggest you limit yourself to one, unless you wish to take time out of your day to attend to them yourself.”

- - -

> Author's Note
I'm putting this first, so that way you have to read it before you get to the voting! The way the whole 'work' thing, well works, is very simple. The day, as you may have noticed, is split up into three sections – Morning, Afternoon, and Evening. There's Night, but well, everyone is generally asleep then so it hasn't come up yet.

Your workers only work from Afternoon to Evening normally, as they spend the Morning sleeping, waking up, eating... so there isn't that much of Morning left by the time they start working. Each worker has skills, and those skills have ranks/levels (whatever you want to call them), the more they have, the better of course.

When you select a job, also say who will be working on it – as we only have one right now, you don't have too, but keep it in mind for future jobs when we do have more workers. Or I'll just assign them however I feel like at the time.

Anyway jobs have a Completion score, you have to reach that within the job's time limit to get the reward. Fail and you only get partial credit, but you'll lose some things as well... so don't try to do that.

As for how Completion is given, it's pretty simple. Each skill level is basically a d3, by default, so for each work period (so by default Afternoon and Evening) you get 2 rolls of a d3, meaning you can earn as little as 2 Completion, or as much as 6 Completion per day (Assuming a skill of 0, if skill of 1 then you have 2 d3's per time period, so minimum of 4, max of 12 in Afternoon and Evening).

All the rolls are on my side of course, and I'll do my best to remember to tell you how the Completion is going whenever time passes. Whenever a job is finished, it'll be closed and the workers will be off on break. Rewards are given the next day, in the morning.

One thing to keep in mind for your workers is Stress. They gain 1 stress for doing work, and lose 1 whenever they don't. For a normal day, this means they gain 0 stress overall. You can however opt to make a worker work Morning and/or Night – keep in mind this means they'd gain 2 stress per day. They'll only get up to 6 before they refuse to work until it gets back down to 0.

Reina is a special case. For woodworking skills she counts as having 5 skill levels in it, and she always rolls the highest result on her die. For other jobs, she always gets a 2 as a result, and counts as having 5 skill levels as well. Keep in mind if Reina is working, you can't do anything else.

Sorry for the huge text dump. I hope it isn't too confusing. There's more to it, but I'm kind of working it out as it goes, and it isn't relevant yet.

>Job requests for Reina Roots

~ Make tables (Woodcrafting)
Client requests a few tables to be used during this year's flower viewing. As the viewing is still some weeks away, haste is not required but encouraged.
Required Completion: 15
Deadline: Spring 12
Reward: 100 Mon

~ Repairing of family heirloom (Restoring)
Client requests a dresser that has been in their family for generations to be restored, as its begun to fade and has suffered some damage over the year. Due to the nature of the request, it is likely only Mistress Roots can do this particular request.
Required Completion: 10
Deadline: Spring 12
Reward: 40 Mon

~ Making a kotatsu table (Woodcrafting)
While the weather has been warm, a client is looking to have a kotatsu table for when the weather chills.
Required Completion: 8
Deadline: Spring 10
Reward: 40 Mon

- - -

Sure is nice to get some work offers...
[ ] Select which jobs to pick, if any.

Well, now then, what shall I do today?
[ ] Go to Aya's to set up that shelf!
[ ] Maybe you'll just lazy around the house today...
- [ ] Get to know Scrap?
- [ ] Chat it up with Limstella?
- [ ] Other? (write-in)
[ ] Perhaps you'll go into town to shop...
[ ] Other (write-in)

- - -

Oh god. This took so long to write. Sorry to dump this all on you at once anon, but I knew this was going to happen eventually. Hopefully it doesn't sound too confusing and it doesn't annoy everyone that much.

I'm not sure how many jobs should really be offered, or how often either. I know it's a bit early into the whole concept, but do you feel they should be offered daily, weekly? Few times a week? Or how many jobs offered? One? Three? Six? I'm kind of fishing for input there. I don't have a list of jobs, so I kind of make them up on the spot, but do keep in mind they're how you earn your spending money.
>> No. 156201
Yay! Update!

[x] work on the table
[x] Ask what our metal worker needs.
>> No. 156207
[X] Repair Family Heirloom - Reina and Scrap

May not be the highest paying job, but it will look good if we complete it. Have to build that reputation. Might as well work together, and complete it quickly, and train our new worker to do more than one job.
>> No. 156222
[x] Repairing of family heirloom (Restoring)

I would like to send Scrap take care of the kotatsu while Reina take care of that heirloom, but if she's not experienced, she'll need supervision. And I don't think the workshop is big enough anyway.
>> No. 156300
[X] Making a kotatsu table (Woodcrafting)

It has the closest deadline, but can be easily done in a day (or even half of one).

>I'm not sure how many jobs should really be offered, or how often either.
Make it somewhat random. With a small population, it's unlikely that there would be a steady stream of work. Each day, there could a chance of no new jobs, one job or several, with higher numbers being rarer. Sometimes there's a lull of several days, and sometimes a large pile comes all at once.

Another idea to consider is, if prospective clients have a general idea of how many jobs are already waiting on Reina, the chance for a new job goes down, and new ones are more likely to be restoration. When people aren't looking for Reina's specialty, they'll be looking for the workshop that can handle their work the quickest.
>> No. 156303
Don't be too boring with your requests, kriss. You can make them more interesting if they're unusual.
For example, the repairing a family heirloom mission, is boring. It just degraded over the years? BORING. Write it to give the impression it's a kid trying to cover up a stupid thing, it'll be funnier.
>> No. 156329
>>156303
I'll do my best.

As there is... somewhat of a tie... I'm going to wait another day. If it's still tied, I'll just flip a coin, or something.
>> No. 156330
[X] Repair Family Heirloom - Reina and Scrap

(I might be >>156201 if consider my vote changed)
>> No. 156374
File 133710051085.jpg - (70.41KB , 502x651 , 34ee5d9c78557018e8b667534e241757.jpg ) [iqdb]
156374
[X] Repair Family Heirloom - Reina and Scrap

- - -

You gestured with your fork at the restoration job, “How about that one? That does sound like something only I can do after all, it's almost like asking for me specifically! Sounds simple enough as well, so it shouldn't take that long.”

Limstella nodded, tucking the clipboard under her arm, “Very well Mistress Roots. Is there anything else?”

“Nah, not really. Oh, well, I guess could I have Scrap kind of watch? I mean, I know it isn't her area of expertise or anything, but... I figure her being around couldn't hurt, right?”

“Of course, I will inform her. I shall have the item delivered to the workshop within the hour.”

With that, the fairy excused herself from the room. As you had the freetime, and Aya was still in the bath, you took it upon yourself to clean up the table and do the dishes – even though you were sure Limstella intended to do them herself. It was going to take some getting used to having a maid around...

After putting the last of the newly cleaned dishes away, you turned around to see Aya peering at you. It was a bit sudden, to say the least.

“Ahahaha, sorry didn't mean to scare ya. You're pretty dutiful Reina! Sorry to kind of eat, bathe, and run but, well... you know,” she pats her bookbag, “would like to get more into these. If you don't mind...?”

You shake your head, “Don't worry about it. I have some work to do anyway, so even if you stayed I wouldn't really be able to do anything with you for a while...”

“Got some work eh? Well that's not all bad, you got to earn some cash somehow, eh? I'll see you around Reina, it was a lot of fun hanging out with you, we really have to do it again sometime!”

“I wouldn't mind, drop by anytime. Enjoy the books Aya.”

With that Aya departed. You probably still had a bit of time before Limstella returned, so maybe you'd grab a quick bath...

~

From the job's description, you had expected a bit... worse, really. The dresser wasn't in great condition, but it wasn't really that bad either. It did look a bit faded, and had a few unusual-looking marks on it (which you guessed might be what happens if danmaku hits furniture, but you weren't positive)... the only thing unusual, was some odd-looking bite marks. You swear you've seen those same, unusual bite marks somewhere...

Oh well. A job was a job, and it didn't hurt to start out nice and easy. Scrap had decided to seat herself on one of the tables in the workshop, her job reduced to little more then watching, passing you tools, or the occasional bit of material. It did not seem to please her all that much, but she didn't offer much protest either.

“So, Scrap, what made you decide to be a metalworker?” you asked, deciding to break the silence.

The fairy seemed taken aback by the sudden question, nearly dropping the tool she was handing you, “Oh, well... I don't know really. Just kind of... did one day. I guess metal always had a nice, pretty shine to it...” she glanced at you, “if you don't mind me asking boss, why do you uh... do what you do? You call it restorin' or something, right?”

“Well I don't call it that really, it's just what its called. But, well, I just always liked it. I didn't have a lot of money, or things in general, growing up, so I learned to take really good care of what I had, and how to keep fixing it to make it last longer. When I got older, I found out it was a pretty good paying job sometimes too.”

“Huh, I see. You really got that much work? I always figure people just throw out old things and buy new things to replace it, instead of payin' someone to fix something old.”

You chuckle and nodded your head, “Now you see why I said 'sometimes'. I guess a long, long time ago I would've gotten a lot more work. But back home, it went pretty much like you said... people didn't have an attachment to anything, and it wasn't hard to buy something new. I really only got work from people trying to hold onto something precious to them. So there's some good satisfaction in that.”

Scrap nodded her head, but didn't say anymore.

~ Year 2, Spring 4 – Afternoon

After finishing the job, and informing Limstella, it didn't take long for a small crew of fairies to show up, heft the dresser with surprising ease, and carefully make their way out of the house. It really did seem like fairies did quite a bit around here... or maybe it was just because of where the jobs were contracted through.

Limstella was scribbling some things on her clipboard as she approached, “Very good work Mistress Roots, payment will be here in the morning. I did not get any messages of new jobs from them, but I do believe the other jobs in question have been taken already... still, at least we got something done. The day is yours, Mistress Roots.”

“Eh, taken?” you ask with a bit of surprise.

The fairy furrows her brow, “Yes, of course. We are not the only ones being given these job offers. Ah, I suppose I didn't mention that, did I...?” Limstella shakes her head, “I apologize Mistress Roots on my error. But yes, the offers we get are not merely just for us, but instead sort of a... pool? Anything we get in the morning is likely fair game, but after that... it is less likely for it to remain open.

“Of course, anything requiring your talents of restoration are likely to remain open indefinitely. I do apologize for not mentioning this sooner...”

You shake your head, “No, no that's alright. Well, at least I know now. I guess it's good to get something done anyway... well, then, what will I do now...”

- - -

What will you do now, indeed?
[ ] Let's hit up the to- err, village!
[ ] Perhaps go visit...
- [ ] Reimu
- [ ] Attempt to find Yuuka
- [ ] Other? (write-in)
[ ] Stay home and maybe make some things.
[ ] Other? (write-in)

I swear this whole job thing will feel more refined eventually. Or maybe it'll always feel kind of odd and out of place. I hope not though.
>> No. 156376
[x] Perhaps go visit...
- [x] Reimu

As much as I'd like to visit Yuuka again, it's not fair to impose on her again like a leecher.
>> No. 156401
[X] Let's hit up the to- err, village!

You know, for living near it, we've never really explored the village at all. It's never a bad idea to familiarize yourself with the neighbors.
>> No. 156416
[x] Let's hit up the to- err, village!
>> No. 156420
[x] Perhaps go visit...
- [x] Reimu
Time to see or shrine priestess and make a donation
>> No. 156421
[X] Let's hit up the to- err, village!

As >>156401 pointed out, we live in/near the village, but we don't really spend much time there. If we are running a buisness, it might be a good idea to visit every now and then. Note where you can get supplies, talk to neighbours etc.
>> No. 156428
File 133729872937.jpg - (90.81KB , 299x672 , randomart.jpg ) [iqdb]
156428
[X] Let's hit up the to- err, village!

- - -

You had lived in Gensokyo for, about a year now, and you didn't live that far from the village... yet you really only had visited it a handful of times. It sounded like a good idea to go there again, see what you could find or maybe even buy! You recall Keine and Akyuu lived within the village as well... although, you really had no reason to go see them at the moment.

“I think I'm going to go see the village. Did we need anything while I'm out?”

Limstella shakes her head, “Not in particular Mistress Roots. Before you go, let me get your money... if you want to buy anything, you'll need it.”

The shopkeepers probably wouldn't take IOUs after all. Or maybe they would, but you'd still feel kind of bad doing that... the fairy maid returned before long, handing you a plain looking pouch. Peeking inside, you saw various coins along with a string. You pulled the string out and looked at it oddly, it seemed quite out of place...

“When mon was used in the outside world, I heard they had the holes punched in the coins, so that they could be carried on a string. It isn't quite as practiced anymore, but, well... I thought if you wanted to try it out... and we have no particularly shortage of string.” explained Limstella, noting your confusion

You nod your head, “Oh I see. That's kind of interesting actually... I'll think about it. Although it would seem like having coins on a string is kind of vulnerable to pickpockets.”

“As I understand it, that should not be a concern in the village. Of course, I've never really gone myself, and only know what I've heard. I cannot imagine it would be that bad though... still, it is of course up to you Mistress Roots. Enjoy your time in the village, I will take care of the house while you are away. If anyone comes looking for you, shall I inform them you are in the village?”

“Yeah, that'd be fine. Thanks Limstella.”

~

You felt a bit out of place in the village. All the traditional Japanese buildings, and everyone wearing all that japanese clothing... still, at least you saw the occasional outsider mixed in as well. No one was really paying any particular attention to you anyway.

It had been quite a while since you were last here, but someone was kind enough to give you directions around the village – which, conveniently enough – seemed to be split up enough that you knew where most of the stores were located, and where to not go, simply because there was nothing of interest there beyond houses.

Heading off towards the commercial district, as you had just now dubbed it, you decided you'd poke around in all the stores, get a feel for what they sold, before actually deciding to buy anything or not... otherwise, you did hear of a few good places to eat, or get something to drink you could visit.

- - -

> Available Mon: 510

> Kappa and Spiders (Workshop and House upgrades)
- Current workshop is size Small, and can support one upgrade
[ ] Mini-Forge – 200 Mon (Same day installation included!) (Workshop)
[ ] Tailor's Bench – 200 Mon (Same day installation included!) (Workshop)
[ ] Workshop expansion – 500 Mon (2 days to build) (Workshop)
[ ] New bedroom – 500 Mon (2 days to build) (House)

> Fairy Materials
[ ] High-quality Lumber – 20 Mon each
[ ] Superior-quality Lumber – 45 Mon each
[ ] Exotic Lumber – 100 Mon each
[ ] High-quality Copper – 35 Mon each
[ ] Superior-quality Copper – 80 Mon each
[ ] Iron – 140 Mon each
[ ] High-quality Fabrics – 15 Mon each
[ ] Silk – 200 Mon each

[ ] Maybe get a bite to eat...
- [ ] Ramen! (5 Mon)
- [ ] Maybe that sushi place... (7 Mon)
- [ ] It's not food, but you heard this place has some nice sake. (4 Mon)
- [ ] Tea? (2 Mon)

[ ] Go visit a little gambling parlor you heard about...
[ ] On second thought, maybe you don't need anything after all.
[ ] Other? (write-in)

Materials are used in jobs. Maybe. I'm thinking about it, so maybe you shouldn't buy anything. I'm just thinking of using it for some jobs that require you to have material handy, since after all, Yukari is just providing you free, basic stuff.

I completely made up most of these prices off the top of my head, so give me an idea if they feel too cheap, or too expensive. For reference's sake, I based the cost of food earlier on, at it costing 5 Mon to feed a person for a day, with 3 meals. So it was about 1.5 Mon for a meal. This is probably in no way an accurate representation of the actual value of money.

Also, is there a shop type you think I should include that I did not? Throw me a suggestion and I'll include it next time or something.
>> No. 156518
>Mini-Forge
>Tailor's Bench
>Workshop expansion
>New bedroom

I already don't know what I'm going to vote for, but I would like to know exactly what those things are going to change. The workshop expansion and the other bedroom, I can guess, but the mini-forge?
>> No. 156523
>>156518
Mini-Forge was the most generic sounding name I could think of for metalwork stuff. Tailor's Bench for tailoring and... such.

I think next time I'll try to include something to indicate what something is for so there's not any confusion...

As an aside, the workshop expansion is for more things to put into the workshop, and bedrooms are for more workers... or, just having spare bedrooms.
>> No. 156526
[x] Mini-Forge – 200 Mon (Same day installation included!) (Workshop)
[x] High-quality Lumber – 20 Mon each
[x] Iron – 140 Mon each
- [x] Ramen! (5 Mon)

There we go. Some materials, an upgrade, and some food. Beside, Scrap is a metalworker, so we'll be able to work on two projects at once, which means more MONEY, and with that MONEY, we can upgrade the worshop, hire more hirelings, makes more MONEY, AND MAKES MORE MONEY AND BUY THE WHOLE WILLAGE! HAHAHAHAHA- sorry. Anyway, we need more money. Beside it's cool to not be poor.
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