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Well, if this is going proper gothic novel style... He's an attractive foreigner with wealth and status who appears to be unmarried, whom the protagonist likes but doesn't know much about, and who has a rake's reputation. He is also dressing more smartly for the aftermath of a suicide/murder than for his own garden party. That almost certainly means he's mad, evil, or mad and evil and is planning on roping Rosa in to things her mother wouldn't approve of. We shouldn't trust him. Besides, if we did go all love interest on him we'd incur the wrath of that governess sister lady who'd probably want to take the other eye or something.
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Jun 7, 2016 23:02
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Thank you for doing this LP. It very quickly went from something that I had zero hopes for to something horribly wonderful that I wish I had time to play through myself. That said, clearly he murdered her and will be coming after you next, my foolish little girl.
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Jun 8, 2016 03:15
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Chapter 2, continued -Remember the fear in Catherine's eyes in her last days? -Look at how he is unperturbed by Catherine's death.We don't know for sure what Guilleme did to Catherine, but his innocence is in doubt. Nevertheless we still may need to depend on him to keep Rosa off the streets. So we'll stick around, but that does not mean we're going to trust him. We'll definitely be sleeping with one... uh, that is, we'll be regarding him with suspicion.  There is an absence of feeling in him, don't you see? It goes beyond the usual apathy of loneliness. Did he even really love Catherine? How well do you even know him, child? I-I've known him for as long as I knew Catherine, Mother. He is a close friend... I didn't ask how long you've known him, but how well! Beyond the mask that he displays in public view. Do you even know his past? Do you even know any of his ambitions or secrets? He was always a private man, Mother. Think back, child! Isn't it curious how all his past relationships have ended in disaster? Everything he touches crumbles. ... ...That is not enough to accuse him of anything... You idiot! He is different! He does not belong! You have felt it too, haven't you? A hint of doubt slithered out from beneath her sadness. Rosa wanted something to blame, a cask for all her regrets. Guilleme seemed like the perfect candidate, didn't he? Yes, you're finally seeing it. Open your eyes, child.It made sense. Guilleme and Catherine's relationship began to pewter off into coldness right before she died. Her mental instability only served to compound the fracture in their relationship. Perhaps Guilleme was tired of her and had her killed off for convenience? ...Or perhaps Catherine, in her psychotic state, killed herself to spite him? Rosa stared at the man beside her. He is not to be trusted, child. He is a demon.Guilleme returned Rosa's angry stare with a resolute look.  I know you must hate me, Rosa. I am aware that I only aggravated Catherine's condition with my presence. I know the feeling when I am not wanted.He stood up, a hard yet kind look on his face.  Just remember that I will always be here for you. As much as I was there for Catherine, even though she spat me out.Rosa bit her lip. When Catherine had refused to eat, it had been Guilleme who fed her and attended to her. Despite Catherine hurling abuse at him, he had tried to care for the sick woman himself. Lies! All lies! Keeping up appearances! Then what is it that he has done, Mother? Catherine committed suicide. It was not by his hand that she died. Are you just going to leave it at that? Look at his face and tell me you trust him whole-heartedly!Rosa tried to search for the answer in Guilleme's eyes. But, as always, his face betrayed only few emotions. I... don't know.Mother was screaming now. He killed her! I am sure he did! And you're letting him get away with it! Please, my head hurts. And you say you loved her. You never loved her, you selfish child. I've always known you were this selfish. Just like your father! S-Stop! You throw people away! Didn't you throw me away when I inconvenienced you? Admit it. You were secretly relieved I died. No! Stop it!!She screamed back at that last voice. Her mouth quivered. Guilleme stared at Rosa in shock. The outburst had accidentally come out aloud. It pulled a plug that kept the tears from pouring out. Now her vision clouded, and she blinked them away again and again. She was not sobbing. She did not even realise her face was wet.  He knelt down by Rosa's bed and wiped her tears with his hand. He did not say anything while doing this, and Rosa stared blankly ahead. It almost stunned her how many tears a person's eyes could carry. I loved her too, Rosa.He said it after a while.  I know what you're feeling.She didn't know if it was her own, or if Mother's anger was somehow influencing her, but her chest heaved. She balled up her fist so tightly that her fingernails hurt. Shut up.She spat, and the man recoiled at the uncharacteristic bitterness of her words.  Catherine was afraid of you in her last days! You did something to her! I know it!She could feel Mother inside her head, building up her anger. He has to be punished! You are to blame! He has to atone! I know you are guilty! He must be punished!Guilleme stared at her dumbfounded for a few seconds. But the man didn't try to appease her. He only stepped closer to Rosa and wrapped his arms around the hysterical girl.  Despair, Yasu pochi (another direct mp3 link). I hate you! Let me go!But Guilleme didn't. If you need something to hate, then I'll accept your hate. But you must accept my comfort, too. I need you too, right now, Rosa. You are the only one who loved her as much as I did.Guilleme's words brought back Catherine in Rosa's mind. Almost at once, the anger was replaced with a sadness so heavy she couldn't breathe. Why was she so angry again? She was focusing on anger instead of pain. It was easier. The real tears came, all for the loss of the girl they both loved. Tomorrow was not going to come. There was only right now, the loss, and two friends mourning a loved one. Rosa cried until she thought she wouldn't be able to stop, and Guilleme quietly held her. Slowly, her weeping began to subside into sobs, and only then did he speak again. Stay in the château, Rosa. I know you are thinking of leaving now that Catherine is gone. But I can't let you wander the streets again. I will take care of you.Good to know Rosa's not being turned out. ...It's what Catherine would have wanted.Like a spell being broken, these words brought back her anger. How could you possibly know what Catherine wants? She's dead.Guilleme's mouth pursed, and he stepped away. I want you to go. Please leave me.Guilleme sighed and closed his eyes. ...I understand.He turned on his heels and left without another word. SFX: door closing softly  She would fall asleep and awaken in unfit intervals so often that she had lost the exact time. Awake, she would stare at a part of the wall with no coherent thoughts forming in her mind. One would think mourning should be spent in a depressive frenzy. All the reasons to grieve are yours, after all. She could wail now, if she wanted. She could pull on her hair, curse the skies. She could reminisce the past, admire the frailty of human lives... Unfortunately, it was something less poetic. Pain was simple. It was clean. It was a well-sharpened knife that sliced through the heart in one stroke. No blood, no mess. Empty. When tears were spent, there was just a hole where your heart had been. The hurt called out to you. It lingered. But since there was nothing there anymore, you couldn't find where the pain ended and you began. Rosa slept all day. <<Music fades out.>> The sun had gone down twice before she shifted from her bed. She stood up slowly, deliberately, with a purpose. My child, you know I hurt when you're hurt. Already a surge of power flowed within her, fueled by her grief. The power filled her up, and there was so much emptiness inside that the energy seemed to saturate her whole body. Purpose was always a balm for grief. Mother. Tell me what to do. -Justice. -Retribution.What do we seek? Kangra fucked around with this message at 08:10 on Oct 28, 2017 |
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Jun 10, 2016 04:20
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Let's see how bad it gets if we go for justice.
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Jun 10, 2016 04:40
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Retribution! 
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Jun 10, 2016 05:14
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Justice must be done.
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Jun 10, 2016 06:11
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justice
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Jun 10, 2016 08:01
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I'm for retribution myself. After all, retribution stops when we're satisfied, and justice doesn't stop until we imagine Catherine is satisfied.
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Jun 11, 2016 23:20
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Going for retribution myself.
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Jun 12, 2016 01:03
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Looks like it's a split vote right now. I'll give this until midnight tonight UTC (evening in the US) for more votes to come in to decide what we want from Guilleme.
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Jun 13, 2016 16:28
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I'll toss in a vote for Justice.
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Jun 13, 2016 18:37
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Retribution because its the less frequently used synonym for revenge.
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Jun 13, 2016 19:44
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Still tied. Next vote decides it.
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Jun 14, 2016 01:07
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Let Justice be done, whatever that may mean in the end.
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Jun 14, 2016 01:09
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Aww, I was gonna vote for Retribution.
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Jun 14, 2016 07:54
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-Justice -Retribution After a close vote, we're going to seek justice. Creepy background musicI haven't been able to identify this piece, but I think it may be an altered version of Kevin McLeod's "Ice Demon" (which can be heard later in the game). For once, I'm posting the in-game version. Rosa didn't speak, but she started to form the words in her mind, feeling them in her bones, giving life to every thought.  It didn't need much, a guilt spell. It didn't aim to punish. It only aimed to inform. She needed to know how much guilt the man carried, and the source of such guilt. If the guilt was concrete and came from a direct action, then she would know Guilleme did something to Catherine. It had been a while since she had used magic. It used to be the only way she could protect herself from the world. Mother had taught her, and now, Mother guided her as she cast her spell. She needed a possession of the man. Rosa opted for his voice, still fresh from memory. She focused on the last conversation they shared. If you need something to hate-- I will take care of you-- ... I need you.His words made Rosa feel distress and confusion. Always, it was this way with him. The feeling wasn't foreign. It had been there for years. I will always be here for you.SFX: a curiously wet rattling or clicking sound (this plays with each flash)  Rosa felt a violent force upturn her stomach. It was that horrid lurch just before vomiting. You failed!The spell collapsed in her brain. Focus, idiot child, or you'll lose your chance.Rosa tried again. This time, she focused on Guilleme's eyes. Cold. Like flints of steel. Dark and fathomless. No grief except, perhaps, for the situation. No Catherine. No pain of loss. This didn't matter to her. Their relationship was dying anyway. Where was his guilt? Rosa dug deeper. She increased the chanting on her lips. No torment. No uncertainty. ...No guilt. Did the spell fail again? She searched once more and found nothing. There was no guilt in Guilleme's eyes. She could stop the spell now, knowing that he was innocent. If the spell had worked, then Guilleme was blameless. But...this absence was most distressing. Rosa desperately pushed her mind further, almost wishing there were traces hiding beyond her reach. (Guilt should be present in any loss, no matter how little! Don't we blame ourselves for our own loss? Don't we hate ourselves and punish ourselves, even if it wasn't our fault? It didn't have to be real, but we need guilt to feel pain.) ...But Guilleme didn't have a sliver of guilt. SFX: rattling sound again The vicious pain took hold of her again, squeezing her stomach with murderous intent. The pain was so great Rosa wasn't sure if the spell had failed or succeeded. Something is wrong.SFX: the same odd sound Before Rosa could agree with Mother, she felt a sharp pain in her throat. Rosa clutched her neck, scraping, scratching. A sharp jagged lump was blocking her breathing. She could feel its edges crawl up her windpipe, tearing the soft walls as it moved about. (no sound now) The pain did not stop.  She thrashed about like a woman being strangled. Mother remained calm, unaffected by Rosa's distress. Rosa was about to expel whatever it was. Tears ran down her face. The horrible acidic taste coated her tongue. Finally, she opened her mouth and forced the vile thing out. She kept her eyes shut, afraid to look at whatever had come out of her. SFX: slurping, scraping sound But the choking feeling gripped her, and she puked again. The liquid dripping down her mouth thickened and congealed. It wasn't spit anymore, but blood. It gathered around her knees in a growing pool. Rosa panted. Every breath was laced with pain. But the gruesome effect had finally stopped.  Something on the floor reflected light. She struggled to comprehend what was in front of her. She reached out with her hand and the prick of something sharp made her recoil. She tried again, this time seeing more clearly. Rosa picked them up with shaking hands.  In her palms were a handful of long, metal needles. She had regurgitated them along with blood and jagged pieces of flesh. Rosa examined them with a horrified kind of curiosity. She stuck one in her thumb and it drew more blood. They were real. They had materialized in her throat while casting the spell on Guilleme. Rosa wiped her mouth. There was something... wrong with him. Something... potent and dark. ...Or could it be that she had merely botched the spell horribly? She had pushed her limits this time. She had gone too far. But still, a tugging concern was forming. It was as real as the metal needles in her hand. Rosa tried to stand up on her feet, but she was exhausted. Her knees failed her, and she crumpled on the floor like a rag. -I knew it! -We must get to the bottom of this.Now, if you can honestly say you did see this coming, I'll change the choice, but I doubt I'll have to. Are you quite alright, my darling? Now you see it, too. There is a sinister force at work. Get up. We have a lot of work to do. We must find out what he is and stop him.Rosa stared at the needles in her hand. 
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Jun 14, 2016 19:55
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Well then.
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Jun 15, 2016 14:10
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Our patron having some kind of needle based magical Black ICE is definitely not a thing I would have predicted.
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Jun 16, 2016 06:54
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Chapter 3 L'enclume - Circus Marcus Her duties were finished and she was allowed a bit of free time. She thought of accompanying Catherine for today's piano lesson.  Cath, do you want some tea?The girl didn't look her way. She continued to churn out the bitter, melancholic sound from her piano. Rosa sighed, her shoulders slumped in defeat. She placed the food on the table. She sat on the stool beside the piano, twiddling her thumbs while her friend continued to stew in her foul mood. Is that a new composition? ... ...It sounds nice... ... Nowadays, you make a new piece every day. It's a shame they're all so sad.Catherine didn't reply to that, but when she spoke again her words were bitter. SFX: Music stops, sound of slamming down on piano  No shame at all. Cath... Alright. Consenting drat adults and all that. At least have the decency to close the door! ... Sometimes, I daresay that they want to get caught. When I walked in on them this morning, eating each others' faces, they had this look on them. Like they were daring me to say something. Quoi? Do they want my applause? Very nice technique, Sire. I very much like the way you swap your spit with my sister! Great tongue action! Très merveilleux! ... And he even has the gall to speak to me?! 'Be a dear and put them on the table, Catherine', he even said. Like I am a soft-headed gigglemug of a maid! He wanted me to get annoyed, I just know it. Well, fais chier! I am!Catherine turned to the tea and pastries, stuffing the buttered bread into her mouth. Easy there. These drat things... These drat delicious things!She said the last part angrily, as if she blamed her troubles on the foods' relish. Rosa giggled in spite of herself. Catherine wiped her mouth in mock anger.  What are you laughing at, wench? It's almost comical to watch you eat when you're angry, Cath. You're like the giant monsters that attack defenseless towns in horror books. Oh, yes?Catherine made sad tiny squeals and picked up another piece of bread. No, no! Please spare us!She adjusted her voice and boomed out a roar. The Catherinian monster of the deep doesn't show mercy to anyone!She dropped it in her mouth and chewed, savagely.  Yum! Annihilation is delicious with tea.Educated French people would doubtless be familiar with stories of a giant who eats people, but calling them 'horror books' does feel a bit anachronistic.  Catherine's rare smile turned into a rueful laugh. And soon, Rosa felt her mood turning somber again. What happened, anyway? ... Aren't you annoyed by it too? Sister has changed ever since she started helping in the château. Now it's all Guilleme this, Guilleme that. As if she wasn't already married. Ugh. She doesn't even care that people are talking behind her back. They're calling her a two-timing slut now! I'm tired of running around picking fights with gossipers. ... She hasn't even visited home for a long time. Father misses her a lot. He always asks about her. Father had worked so hard all these years, just to give us a comfortable life. Now he is sick, and all she cares about is that dastardly Marquis.Rosa shrugged. I am a little bit annoyed. But I guess I've gotten used to it. Their lives are their own, Cath.She didn't dare divulge more than to Catherine. But, it was partially true. Eh, it's completely true. There're just other facts Rosa's obviously not revealing. Also, not my typo on 'more than'. I like Guilleme. He's a nice friend. But I love my sister. If they want to stay together, then why not fix this and have at it? But what irritates me to my drat snatch is the way they are with each other!Catherine recently found the use of expletives endearing in her speech. Rosa hoped it was a phase. This is one place where it's really good to have the adult content enabled, since Catherine's clumsy swearing is kind of adorable. They're loving miserable! Any halfwit can see that! Yes. I've told Émilie time and again to smarten up. She's hurting a lot of people, including herself. But as if she would listen to her sixteen-year-old brat of a sister, hm?It's just occurred to me that we seem to be jumping around in eight-year time periods. I'm not sure if that's meaningful. Even Guilleme is depressed, I can tell! Remember when he used to come and visit us here to have tea? Or when we used to have picnics in the afternoon? We used to run around chasing rodents in the garden! You ran around. We just watched you get dirty, actually. That is very true, you nitheads! Back then, it used to be fun visiting the château. Nowadays, we barely even see him. He just stays in his bureau all day, brooding. Is it something adults subject themselves to, like a torture ritual? I really don't understand why two people who are clearly unhappy keep at it. At least some part of her did. She couldn't exactly explain how pain and love worked. All she knew was that it had something to do with an absurd, obsessive amount of hope. She felt Mother tugging at her mind. She loved Mother so much. Living with the Perrides gave her ample comparison to her former life. She had finally accepted that Mother was... cruel. And yet, Mother still gave her love and kept her from wanting. Was that crazy? Perhaps it was the only love she needed. 
Kangra fucked around with this message at 08:12 on Oct 28, 2017 |
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Jun 19, 2016 06:57
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I didn't know Catherine's lines were different if the content filter is off, though it makes sense. What does she say instead if it is?
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Jun 21, 2016 20:24
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That's the thing -- that line isn't changed, but the lines around it are. So it makes it seem like just that one odd line, when it's part of a pattern. I also think 'oval office' is changed to 'bitch', and it's harder to believe two sisters could make it sixteen years without someone using that (adjusted for the language of the time, which this definitely seems to be). The adult filter is fairly subtle on the lines that are cut. It's more noticeable with images, especially the gross/violent stuff — in the needles scene she feels sick, coughs them up, and that's about it.
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Jun 21, 2016 22:16
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Well, either our host has got needle counter-IC, or everything's working perfectly and we went into some kind of murder fugue. I would not rule either one out at this point.
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Jun 22, 2016 04:23
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I've changed my mind. Guilleme's a bad guy, or at least either sketchy or neck deep in bad juju, and if the needles were our imagination we're too insane for a romance to work out anyway. I suppose it could be someone else's spell though.
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Jun 22, 2016 08:14
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Chapter 3, continued  I know you are just worried about your sister, Cath. But they will figure it out. Humans learn. Look at you, all profound and poo poo! You read any good books lately? Just the riveting account of the ugly duckling and baa baa black sheep. Ah, the classics. I don't know how you put up with it, though! I hate reading words!Sounds like an odd phrase, but she probably does like reading music.  In order to write, I have to learn how to read first. I want to write. Why would you want to do a dastardly thing like writing? Why would you want to hit some crazy strings until your fingers bleed?The two friends laughed again.  I want to remember things. I want to write them down. But most of all, I want to feel the way you do when you play the piano, Cath. Oh? The way you look when you play, you are passion and bliss in musical form. It feels like love, like magic! You inspire me to do something fulfilling and grand! Well, I'm sure you will! Hey, why not write a play one day? Oh! Let's do it! You write an amazing play-- And I shall provide the music! We'll travel around the country and perform! We'll make lots and lots of money and gain lots of followers. We shall be known as: The Perride Parade Caravan of Wonders. Perride... Parade? Are you sure? Puns are the best! Trust me! That sounds darn batty, Cathy. Ugh! From this day forward, nobody is allowed to call me "Cathy" ever again!SFX: a knock. The sound of a knock interrupted their giggles.  Catherine, it's me. I need to discuss something important with you.Frustrated, Catherine pouted at the sound of her sister's voice. Goldberg Variations: Variatio 14. a 2, J. S. BachShe turned back to her piano and began to pound a sarcastically happy tune. Rosa stood up to open the door.  Hello, Rosa. Madame.She had seen little of the older Perride sister recently and it astounded her how old she had began to look. Her once radiant face looked tired and harrowed, almost crone-like. Under her eyes hung huge bags. And yet she still looked quite dignified, full of pride and pomp. There was extra rouge on her skin, and her demeanor was elegant. It was as if pride was her only source of nourishment these days. Do you mind giving Catherine and me a moment of privacy?Rosa gave a small bow. Of course not, Madame.Rosa gathered her nursery books and squeezed Catherine's shoulder before stepping out of the room. SFX: door closing, softly.  Fermer les yeux - Circus Marcus (Track #2)She was about to approach the table when she noticed Guilleme, already occupying a seat. He was writing something in a book, somewhat immersed in the activity. Rosa stopped dead in her tracks. Leave now while he is not looking, child. Just go in and ignore him, child. What are you doing just standing there? He is going to see you. Leave now, while you still have the chance. Alright, Mother, maybe you're right--Unfortunately, Guilleme lifted his head and saw her by the door.  Oh. Hello, Rosa.Rosa took a step back. Maybe it was best to walk away as if this were a mistake. But wouldn't that be rude? He had already seen her, after all. But she had never been alone with him. It was just too awkward. Well, why not just go in? It was going to be fine! They had conversed normally before. Yet... that was because Catherine had been around to disperse her awkwardness.  Now I look like an idiot! Rosa decided to go in. She had already embarrassed herself enough, anyway. There was little left to lose. Besides, there was nowhere else to go in this big house. She had already gotten lost in its hallways much to the annoyance of the Maître d'. The library was her favourite place. If she stayed quietly in one corner, Rosa was sure they wouldn't bother each other. She took a seat at the farthest corner of the table and opened her book.  ... Oh no, he's actually standing up and walking over? No, no, you horrible man, just sit over there, while I sit over here!But Guilleme was already beside her, peeking at what she was reading. A cold sweat spread on her scalp.  Rosa, that book--Rosa began to chatter nervously.  I know it's a children's book, Sire! I-I-I'm teaching myself to read! I know most commoners don't really bother, but I want to learn! So please don't laugh or mock me!  It is upside down.
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Jun 25, 2016 23:35
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Casual humor. Yep, this guy's a secret dark lord.
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Jun 27, 2016 06:05
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Chapter 3, continued The ducks in the picture had their feet up in the air. Rosa squirmed, feeling the heat on her cheeks. She couldn't think of anything more embarrassing. I-I'm sorry!Guilleme's face lost its cheer.  What do you need my forgiveness for?Rosa looked up at Guilleme. His eyes lacked the gentle glint they usually had. It was such a subtle change, something felt rather than observed. She thought he would reprimand her further. His face certainly looked like it. Instead, he sat down beside Rosa, drumming his fingers on his cheek while he watched her wordlessly. ... Well? ...? Weren't you going to read? I--What was wrong with him today? He didn't seem like himself. Had he eaten something bad?  Yet, it wasn't particularly wicked. The look on his face just read 'slightly and eternally miffed'. Rosa turned the book upright and read the words out loud. O--once yuh---Ah... uhm-- That is the 'u' with the short sound. It is pronounced like this.Guilleme made the sound, his face still in his lazy stare. Rosa nodded and continued. Her nerves were frazzled, but she was actually at ease in his presence. She felt like a child being taught by their parent. The parent was strict, but still caring. And the child was jumpy, but eager to learn and please. Most of all, he would not hurt her for her mistakes. Rosa was almost sure. There lib-ed. Lived. The past tense of live. ... Why do we change it? It is a rule of grammar that-- Grammar?Guilleme narrowed his eyes at her.  Do you even know your alphabet?Rosa shook her head. You should start there.Guilleme rose from his chair and disappeared amongst the shelves. He left behind an old thick book covered in green felt. This was what he had been writing in earlier. It looked tattered and worn. The pages laid fat on its side so that the book didn't close properly. Rosa reached out to peek at the cover when--  You are not to touch that.Rosa's whole body froze at the sound of Guilleme's warning. Guilleme's stare followed her even as she whispered numerous apologies under her breath. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.Guilleme just rolled his eyes. You are always seeking forgiveness for everything. Am I...? I-I'm sorr--SFX: Hand slamming table His hand struck the table in front of Rosa. In the quiet library, the sound rang uncomfortably in her ear.  He moved closer to her, his eyes fixed on her intensely. Rosa's mouth hung open. She struggled to say something, but her wits were like the burning ends of a matchstick. Before she could compose herself, she felt Guilleme's hand lift her chin. Rosa's heart thumped loudly inside her chest. Please, don't... Not you, too!She felt his breath on her face, and her heart sank into despair. Mother's voice resounded in her head. In the end they are all the same. He is like everyone else!She shut her eye and prepared herself for the worst, like she always did when-- Then, she felt her face being turned from side to side. She opened her eye to see Guilleme studying her face like a textbook. You are a fairly attractive girl. Why do you carry yourself as if it is a slight?He lifted the hair that hid her damaged eye. Rosa clenched her teeth. Is it because you were hurt before?He said it so matter-of-factly, like he was stating that sky was blue. Rosa recoiled from his touch. N-No... I did that to myself. I wasn't talking about your eye.He placed a book on the table. It was a thin pamphlet filled with letters. There were lines on the book that instructed the user to trace letters with their quill. Rosa wanted to focus on it, but she could feel the truth in the Marquis' words stinging her.  It was the way you went limp when I touched you. Next time, I advise you to fight back. If you don't want to be touched, then you don't have to be. Do you understand this? ...But... ...I am weak. Says who?His eyes were humourless. The world cares not for people who think of themselves as victims, Rosa. If you need power, then be powerful. To have it, it is necessary to crush things along the way. She realised that the polite and courteous Guilleme was but a facet. It was still him, but it was nothing but an oil portrait, an artwork of his devising. Synthetic, aloof, and irrelevant. It couldn't capture his essence in a few human strokes. Suddenly, Rosa realised he was powerful. Who are you? She caught herself before saying it aloud. You are not Guilleme. ...And yet. He spoke to her as if he knew what it was like to hurt and to fear. If you don't start acting like you own yourself, then people will not hesitate to take everything.He laid out the rest of the books he had brought out. One was an activity book for children. It had a picture of a child holding an apple with an arrow stuck in it. Another was a book of limericks. The other two were thicker books that intimidated her. She would come to know them as 'Hamlet' and 'Paradise Lost'. But the one that caught her eye was an ornately designed book. It had a beautiful red jacket, with delicate gold trimmings lining the corners. The Gods and Goddesses of Roman Mythology This would be her favourite book, her treasure, and she knew it like love at first sight. These books are yours. Take them with you. Read the thin ones first, and then gradually build your vocabulary with the thicker ones.Rosa ran her hands over the skin of the red book. She opened the cover gingerly, as if carefully unwrapping a present. T-Thank you... No thanks needed. I simply showed you some books from a portion of the library you were unaware of. ... You are still so generous... even if you are like this. Like what? That. What? Uhm, somewhat irritable?Guilleme didn’t reply, leaving an awkward silence lingering between them. Then, he gave a giant laugh that made Rosa jump out of her skin.  I do look drat irritable, don't I? Why? Is it because of... Émilie?Guilleme's eyes drifted away. No. I've always been. You just pointed it out. But you are not usually like this... Especially with Catherine... and the townspeople... I find it easy to adapt to people, especially to the ones I like.Guilleme looked at Rosa as if he had just become aware of her presence.  Makes me wonder why I am so stern with you. I'm sorry.Rosa shook her head.  I... somehow prefer this side of you.Guilleme cocked his head to the side.  This is called a journal. When you learn to write, start one. What is it? Something you can use to remember yourself when you've forgotten. Does it work? It used to. Nowadays, not anymore. ...Oh. The act itself is the only thing I remember. Now. Let's start with your vowels--SFX: Scream A scream pierced the halls of the Château. Kangra fucked around with this message at 00:47 on Jun 30, 2016 |
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Jun 29, 2016 22:49
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Huh. Dude has seen some poo poo. Well, it's to be expected if you still have power.
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Jul 1, 2016 00:12
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Hamlet and Paradise Lost are rather advanced books to be giving to someone just learning to read. Setting your expectations quite a bit high there.
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Jul 1, 2016 02:19
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Thanks for informing me of this game, played through it for the various endings, and boy does this end up going places. I'm very looking forward to the reactions from everyone else.
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Jul 1, 2016 19:53
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Chap 3, continued It was Catherine. Guilleme sprinted to the door with Rosa not far behind. "Descent" - JimiMod & S. LaRue. Track 1 here [The in-game track just uses one loop from the middle of this.]Back in the piano room, Catherine took a shaky step towards her sister.  Blood dotted the ivory keys.  I didn't-- It was an accident-- I-- Émilie?She was overcome with the urge to approach her sister and shake her awake. Make sure she was okay. But... It was a nasty fall. É-Émilie?Catherine saw the way her sister's head snapped back as it collided with the sharp corner of the piano. She watched it all like a series of photographs in her head. She had to check on her, but her feet refused to move. Instead, she began to retreat into a corner. She didn't even notice her legs were moving until her forehead touched the wall. She didn't want to turn around.  Her eyes were still open, unblinking. It was an accident! It was nothing but an accident! ...Was it? She pushed first! She got really scary. She strangled me. What? That's absurd! Are you sure? Would she do that? I--I don't know.. I think she did.Catherine touched her throat. It felt fine. (That Perride girl. Émilie, is it?) (She really believes just because the Marquis took her in, that he's interested in her?) (Well, she's obsessed with the Master.) (The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.) (Wasn't her mother a bit...) (You know...) (Not right in the head?) (It probably runs in the family.) Émilie had looked mad. Her eyes had burned with malice for her as she had closed her fingers around Catherine's neck. But she couldn't remember if that had really happened. Sister was always kind to her. She would never ever hurt her, even when they got into fights.  ... Am I turning mad? I have the blood of a madwoman. Am I going to end up like her? I-- I only told her the truth. Guilleme doesn't care for her. And she doesn't even care for him that much either. It was all just... chaff, their relationship. No sense trying to make everyone else miserable, too. But she called me jealous and a oval office. She has never called me a oval office. She said they have decided to send me away. My lessons sent home. The piano replaced. It was for my own good, she said. I don't have to travel here all the time. I can concentrate on my other endeavors. I can make new friends. But I know she just doesn't want me near the château or Guilleme. She hates it when I catch her with him. Perhaps this morning was the last straw? She hates it, but she also smirks at me when I see them. Like she basks in it. ... I think I might hate her.Catherine's thoughts ran through her head like a storm. They poured out of her aimlessly. I wonder if the piano is broken. Am I going to pay for it? What will become of us without Sister's wages? What of Father's medicine? What of my dreams? Sister can't be dead. Sister can't be dead.Catherine brought her fingers to her lips and nibbled on her thumb. She didn't notice this. Her mind was preoccupied. She was in her corner of the wall, biting her fingers. It was a tiny comfort in a rapidly collapsing world. SFX: door opening Guilleme opened the door and found Émilie lying on the floor. An ugly gash broke the skin of her forehead. Facing the wall was Catherine, shivering like a leaf and viciously devouring one of her fingernails.  Catherine?Rosa was out of breath, but was still able to let out a gasp at the scene. Émilie's lifeless eyes stared up at nothing while Catherine pressed herself into a corner. What had happened after she had left?! Rosa, will you call for help, please? See that someone checks on Émilie.Rosa did as she was told, but what she really wanted to do was hug Catherine herself. Guilleme took a small step towards her. He called out her name slowly, coaxingly. Catherine turned her head, her thumb still on her lower lip. The flesh was torn, and a smudge of scarlet painted her teeth. I-It was an accident, I-I swear-- Of course it was, Catherine, of course it was. She pushed me first! She wanted me sent away! She wanted me gone! You can tell me about it later. Let me take you away from this room. W-What have I done?Catherine fell to her knees and wept. Large sobs sucked the air out of her. She felt like drowning, trying to keep herself afloat in between sobs. Every exhale was a squeezing pain in her lungs. She felt Guilleme's arms wrap around her. What have I done? What have I done?! You didn't do anything, ma chérie. This is not your fault.There was a bitter bulge building up in her throat, and she felt that no amount of crying could push it back down. What am I going to do-- F-Father is-- Sister-- I... I'm so scared--Guilleme's arms wound tighter around her and she clutched onto his warmth in this vast sea of fear. You don't have to be. I will always be by your side. Catherine? I will take care of you and your father, alright? You don't have to worry about your future.Her tears soaked his shirt through, but the squeezing in her chest felt less painful. W-Why... Why do you do this? Why do you care so much for me?Guilleme's brows furrowed, as if confused that she even asked. I just do.It was a boldly stated fact, as if painfully obvious, as if Catherine was a fool for not knowing it. It made Catherine's heart expand in her ribs. When she looked back, she would recall this as the moment she fell in love with him. The look in his eyes was reassuring and strong. She wasn't alone. She was going to be alright. Let's get you away from here.He supported her arms and stood her up, careful to block the view of her sister from her eyes. He led her to the door. Catherine hated how fast her relief came. She was still drenched in sorrow at her sister's death. Her father would not take well to the news, especially in his health. But she was alright, and she hated it. Rosa was with her. She didn't have to leave her piano. Her dreams. Him. Nothing had to change. And most importantly, she hated the voice that came whispering in her head over and over again. Thank goodness she's dead. Thank goodness.
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Jul 4, 2016 16:41
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Oh great, more voices in heads. This can only end wel... oh wait, we kinda saw what happens. But still, it was a sad moment.
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Jul 4, 2016 18:02
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Hhhhhuh. Okay, so if we went for revenge maybe the needle-IC came from her?
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Jul 5, 2016 02:45
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Chapter 3, continued SFX: A match being lit. (music has faded out)  The first candle is lit. This candle is Storge. The love for familiars. The cleanest love. Rosa stared at the blue candle glowing in her hand as she chanted her spell. Trust is the veil that conceals and deceives. Trick his eyes and his heart with the warmth from this candle's flame. A bond of blood like kin will be forged. Weave this trust so his tongue will yield to what is sought. ittekimasu - yasupochi (Direct mp3 link) The soft wind lightly blew her hair. It reminded her of Catherine and her playful ways. Tears sprouted from her eye. Even the wind... -Console her. -Scold her. I am always here, my love. Loss will always hurt. But you love Mother the best, don't you? ...Yes, Mother. Then you are going to be fine. I will never leave you like Catherine did.  Rosa.Guilleme’s soft voice came from behind. Rosa glanced at him in acknowledgement. ...He stood quietly beside her for a few moments but ventured to speak. Have you thought about my offer? My house is always open for you, remember that. ... I'm sorry for my outburst back then. It's nothing.The wind played around their feet, and Rosa pictured Catherine as part of the breeze, playful and free. She was free from the pain and confusion that had plagued her in her last days. They stood beside each other in solemn reverence. Finally, Rosa broke the silence. She was my family. I was in pain before she came along. I didn't know any better. She gave me hope. She was... bright, like a flame. When I close my eyes, I can still see the imprint of her light in the darkness. I can feel her warmth. A star.They didn't speak again for some time. Guilleme cleared his throat.  I-- I was an orphan too, much like you. I know what it feels like to lose too much. I wandered for a long time before I found anything to live for.Finally, we're getting to know a bit about Guilleme. Were you alone? Sometimes... Always.Rosa nodded. Did you have family?Guilleme shifted uncomfortably. No, they ah... left me behind. I never knew them. Much of my memory of it is blurred. I was taken in by kind people once before but-- ...I didn't belong. ... But you have no difficulty mingling with people. ... I think of that as a necessity rather than a preference. ...But either way, it can be quite tiresome after a while... Things... don't last. ... I don't know why I'm telling you this. I am making the mood worse. I'm sorry. I don't mind.Guilleme had never opened up to her about his past before, and it worried Rosa how little she actually knew about him. Anyway, would you like to go around town? I'd very much like to take you some place more cheery. How about our favorite spot?Guilleme smiled with understanding. Friends in a Circle - Jon Coyle  There, the view overlooked the quaint village. The sunset painted everything in the pink glow of dusk, of endings. Not to ruin the mood, but I just wanted to mention that in the demo, this background image had ... power lines in it. Maybe a miscommunication about what was wanted, or perhaps at one point the setting was more modern. It is always so beautiful here.They used to spend time in this grassy knoll, the three of them. It was their own little hideaway. Memories of the past crept up on every corner, the ghost of laughter echoed in the wind. Rosa touched the trunk of the small tree they had carved their names on. So many fond memories. Rosa. I want you to have this.Guilleme took Rosa's hand and placed an item in her palm. It was a simple silver locket. She looked up at him questioningly. I have had that for as long as I can remember. One of my remembrances of the past. I can't take this. You must. You need it more than I do. But-- It's old, and the locket doesn't even open anymore. I don't know why I've held on to it for so long. I can't even remember how I came to have it. But it comforts me. Maybe it will have the same effect for you. ... This is your treasure, Guilleme. It feels wrong to take it. On the contrary, I believe you must have it. Call it a hunch, or a feeling. An urge on my part. I am not good with expressing sorrow, or even giving comfort. But I want to do something... at least. For you.He closed his hand over hers, affirming the gift. It's yours. Please take it. You are wrong if you think I am letting you stay in the castle simply for Catherine's sake. I do it of my own accord. Let me do this for you, Rosa. We have been friends for quite a while. If you need to leave, at least stay until you feel ready to go. ... Alright. But I will continue working in your household for my lodging. You don't have to do that. I can raise your status to a lady. You can read and write now. And very well. I'm sure you will be more comfortable in a higher position. I have no need for a higher position. Just free access to your library. You have come a long way from the shy girl back then, Rosa. Watching you grow has been a pleasure. Yes, the library is yours. Rosa realised that she had been holding on to Guilleme's hand all that time. She broke off from his hold, rather embarrassed.  We should head back. You're right. It's getting quite late.Guilleme walked over to the carriage to get it ready. Excellent, child. Being a maid in his household will give you free access to the rooms. He trusts you completely. It seems that the candle worked. I guess so.Rosa looked at the silver necklace in her hand. She fiddled with it, trying to open the lock. -Open it. -Leave it alone.What should we do now? Take a look at the locket that might hold a key to Guilleme's past? Or leave it be, content with the knowledge that he's seeming to move on from those memories thanks to us? Would it be fair to look at it if he only gave it to us because of the spell? Did he only give it to us because of the spell? Or is this just a trick on his part, trying to snare us if we mess with his gift?
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Jul 10, 2016 06:25
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Open it.
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Jul 10, 2016 20:28
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Open it. It's our best chance of vomiting up more needles.
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Jul 10, 2016 21:09
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Definitely try to open it. I mean, judging by his words, he hasn't. Also, uh, Storge is the love for families. I dunno if you copied that wrong or if the typo is in the game too.
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Jul 11, 2016 02:47
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Glazius posted:
That is how the game writes it. It's not so much a typo as it is awkward phrasing/loose interpretation. I'll have more to say on the topic in the next update (because it goes back to the idea).
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Jul 11, 2016 17:47
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Definitely open it. He might be opening up, but he's still one shady dude.
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Jul 11, 2016 18:25
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Definitely open it. Also it says something that even when we try to comfort her the first thing we do is make it about ourselves. We're just as broken as she is, aren't we?
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Jul 12, 2016 15:12
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-Open it. -Leave it alone. ... Open that locket. I'd like to see what is inside. An object that he owns will make any enchantment more powerful. I'll try again later, Mother. I'm rather curious about it myself.Well, so much for trying to find out more right now. The spell will start its effect in stages, gradually uncovering his true face. Fondness first, then Trust. Familiarity.Rosa sighed. But was the spell necessary at all? Didn't she already have that with Guilleme? Rosa bit her lip, remembering the warmth of his hand. They had known each other for a long time. It was rather comforting to have someone to mourn with. However, Rosa did find it strange that Guilleme rarely even mentioned Catherine anymore. It was as if he was shedding her off like skin. Again, the taste of blood in her throat resurfaced. The memory of the needles made her stomach lurch. Since her friend had died, the Marquis had begun spending all his hours locked in his office. He barely showed himself socially, rarely even attended meals. ... But they were casting a powerful spell, something that might harm Guilleme. What if he was, after all, innocent? She had years of good memories with him. What was she even expecting to find out? ...Exactly how could she live with the guilt of two dead friends?  She cared for him. Despite all the suspicions, she knew that much. But Mother was adamant. Three candles for three loves. A fitting curse for a man who frolicks in love's domain. Storge. The love for familiars. Philia. The love for friends. And Eros. The love for lust. Open his heart with Storge. Unmask him with Philia. Strike him down with Eros.Yet Rosa kept a fourth candle. One she had named Agape. Unconditional love. She didn't know whether she would ever use it. Mother, of course, would object. But just in case Eros successfully struck Guilleme, she wished to light Agape. At least, give him peace b-before-- Rosa walked towards Guilleme, a pang of anxiousness biting at her.  The work lays ahead. To bring him down, we must find his weakness. Then, we attack. His due punishment will be swift, my dear daughter. Do it for Mother.Since this is a short update, but it's the end of this chapter, here's some supplemental information. The Four Loves We've just encountered the description of the candles using four named types of love - Storge, Philia, Eros, and Agape. These are Greek words, as the ideas around them derive largely from ancient Greek philosophy. The classification of love into these types was popularized by C. S. Lewis in a series of radio talks that was later developed into a book, titled The Four Loves. There is also a theory of love developed by John Alan Lee, which defines six styles of love (Ludus, Storge, Eros, Mania, Pragma, and Agape) and several more based on their combination. However, in addition to the simpler number, it is Lewis that treats the loves in a more hierarchical manner and thus seems to have had a greater influence on the way they are used in this game. Unlike in Cupid, Lewis does not consider them as stages of a developing love. He puts them slightly in order of spiritual perfection, although in the end considers Agape far above the others. In the mind of the Greek philosophers there would have been considerably more overlap in usage, both because the words altered in meaning over time and because they were not always seen as a single state of love — the same relationship might involve more than one type. Storge is a sort of instinctive feeling of affection, something like socially expected love. It is the way family members feel about each other, merely because they are family. It is reasonable that a servant could also be an object of this sort of love, and it can be extended to animals as well. The key feature is that there is no particular quality or action taken on the one loved -- Storge is expressed as a result of the relationship. There is not that much discussion philosophically about this love, and while it is on occasion translated as 'love' it is more often rendered as 'natural affection'. In Cupid, Storge is called 'love for familiars', which isn't really wrong, but it must be borne in mind that Storge does not arise from familiarity. It exists because that person is a familiar. In a way it is prior to any actions of that person. It does make sense, then, that Rosa questions whether or not such love was already present in her relationship to Guilleme. Philia is the second type, the 'love for friends'. This is love one feels for those whom one likes - whether friends, family, or even business associates. Aristotle gives the deepest discussion of Philia in the Nichomachean Ethics, and he describes it as a mutual relationship. Philia is a love that makes us happy because we enjoy and desire good things for the one who is loved. Part of this is that we also gain love and respect in return, which makes the relationship mutually beneficial. However, we do not bear this love merely because we gain some benefit from it, as if it were some transaction. Although in truth if we did not gain some enjoyment or benefit, we would be unlikely to remain or become friends in the first place. It is Philia, then, that is truly a love for that which is (or becomes) familiar; the people we want to have around us because we enjoy being around them. Very often it is a love for people who are similar to us. Philia is really only expressible to people, or at least sentient beings, since inanimate objects cannot take action that would cause us to like them. Eros is romantic love. The word 'erotic' comes from Eros, although this love is not merely about sexual attraction. In fact, Plato's final treatment of Eros in his Symposium makes it about seeing (and seeking) not just beauty of the body or of one person but an eternal ideal of beauty. Eros covers a whole range of romantic feeling and while it is in some sense philosophically broad, it's probably also the one that's easiest for a modern person to understand. Finally, of course, Eros is the Greek name for a god whose Roman name is 'Cupid'. The game considers Eros to be all about lust and desire. While a bit of a departure from the traditional view for the sake of the story, it may have some roots in Lewis. His view is that there is a danger in Eros because this search for perfection can never be fully satisfied by the lover, and this can lead to someone wanting only to be in this state of love, perpetually trapped in desire for Eros (i.e. more love). Thus a 'love for lust' or 'love for desire' would be one view, however negative, of Eros. Agape is unconditional love. This is a love that is altruistic and self-sacrificing. It gained this sense from the Bible, in which it is used to describe God's love for humanity, and the love Christians should bear for each other. This is probably its best-known usage today. It can be used to describe a complete and total love like this, but could also describe a truly loving marital relationship. Actions of Agape are taken with a wider view on their benefit to the beloved than that of Philia or Eros. Obviously in the game these are seen as something of a progression of love, due to the spell. If we further consider how C. S. Lewis viewed them, the first three are all in some way worldly loves. Only Agape is wholly divine. So it's possible to see Mother (or at least this spell of hers) as being focused on these desires that remain bound to this world and are also corruptible. Even taken at face value, we can see at the very least that her motivation is selfish, and so if Agape is an option, she would hardly have reason to consider it. Kangra fucked around with this message at 09:53 on Jul 15, 2016 |
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Jul 15, 2016 09:50
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