Murphy's Law

[CoffeeIncluded]

So yeah. I'm making an OOTS-style webcomic. It's comedic, yet an ongoing storyline. It starts out with a multiclass Fighter/Paladin named Lloyd Zephyr looking to organize an adventuring party, and quickly mushrooms from there into something much bigger...

So, yeah...Enjoy!

MURPHY'S LAW

Current comic:

#26: Seatbelts Help Prevent Whiplash
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/SeatbeltsHelpPreventWhiplash.png

Archive:

#1: Why I Hate Fanservice (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/WhyIHateFanserviceRedo.png)

#2: Always Use A Pencil (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/AlwaysUseAPencil.png)

#3: First Impressions (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/FirstImpressions.png)

#4: Subversions (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/Subversions.png)

#5: Oddly, They Didn't Confiscate His Weapons (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/OddlyTheyDidntConfiscateHisWeapons.png)

#6: This Will Work Out Great! (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/ThisWillWorkOutGreat.png)

#7: Off On The Wrong Foot (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/OffOnTheWrongFoot.png)

#8: Well, She IS A Druid (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/WellSheISADruid.png)

#9: Don't Worry, The Weasel's Alright (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/DontWorryTheWeaselsAlright.png)

#10: Not So Rough (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/NotSoRough.png)

#11: Well, This Isn't Foreboding At All! (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/WellThisIsntForebodingAtAll.png)

#12: Captain Obvious (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/CaptainObvious.png)

#13: Rule Of Cool (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/RuleOfCool.png)

#14: Roll A Fort Save (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/RollAFortSavepng.png)

#15: Avenue J (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/AvenueJ.png)

#16: Lloyd Zephyr Is Not A Morning Person (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/LloydIsNotAMorningPerson.png)

#17: Actually, Radic Has a Higher Dex Score (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/ActuallyRadicHasAHigherDexScore.png)

#18: Digging Yourself Deeper (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/DiggingYourselfDeeper.png)

#19: Kid In A Candy Shop (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/KidInACandyShop.png)

#20: He Really Should Know The Answer To This By Now (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/HeReallyShouldKnowTheAnswerToThisBy.png)

#21: Deja Vu (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/DejaVu.png)

#22: No More (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/NoMore.png)

#23: They're Required To Do This Every So Often (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/TheyreRequiredToDoThisEverySoOften.png)

#24: He, At Least, Didn't See That One Coming (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/HeAtLeastDidntSeeThatOneComing.png)

#25: Tomorrow's Spells Consist Entirely of Cure X Wounds And Atonement (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/TomorrowsSpellsConsistEntirelyOfCur.png)


Please critique!

[Lawyergoblin]

Oooooooooooooooo. Character sheet jokes.

[Mystic Muse]

lol. Permanent marker.

I always use notebooks for my character sheets since I like Pens.

[Fay Graydon]

I like the art being slightly longer limbs then normal!
Keep it up! I'll be reading this comic defiantly and hope for the next update eagerly :smallsmile:

[Green-Shirt Q]

Seems a lot better then the average new fancomic. Keep up the good work.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Thanks. I'll post updates whenever I'm able too.

There's actually a long plotline in this.

[Aaron]

Ooooooooooooooooo! Thats why you never use permanent writing tools.

[Silverraptor]

It seems that alot of people like this comic of yours. I was glad I could help in it's creation. Keep up the good work!:smallwink:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Thanks Silverraptor

Update time!

#3: First Impressions:
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/FirstImpressions.png

[Maximum Zersk]

..Why do I feel like I remember seeing that before? IN the exact same position that I am in now? :smalleek:

Creepy Deja Vu.

An nice comic, CI. :smallsmile:

[Silverraptor]

Congratulations on the new comic. But you know what character I'm really waiting for.:smallamused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

They won't show up for a while. She's the last character to join the party. But it will be a long story arc.

What did you like about this comic?

Oh, and Astrid is a Neutral Good goddess of my own creation. Janine is Chaotic Good.

(Can you see who's in the background?)

[Silverraptor]

Yes, I do. All the pieces are coming together.:smallamused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

And I've got a joke planned that... (I'll PM it after I have lunch.)

[Zanaril]

Nice comic so far. You've done well making the characters dynamic rather than overly copying and pasting like a lot of fancomcs do. The jokes are also funny so far.

Critique:
What you could improve on is composition, especially with regards to the text/ speech bubbles.

Some of the text looks a bit cramped up, and sometimes you haven't arranged it in a way that enforces how the character is speaking. For example, in the very first panel you could have split the text up into sentences and had the speech bubbles in the centre, since him talking is the only thing happening.

You also don't need so much of the horse in the panel, especially if he's not doing anything. It just leads it being visually confusing when characters overlap.

Do you plan out the panels before you start drawing with vectors? :smallconfused: Doing a quick sketch might help.

Keep up the good work! I'm looking forward to seeing more.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Thanks for the input.

Yeah, I'm still working with Inkscape. I'm really not sure how to do some of the finer stuff yet.

I have the panels planned out in my head before I do it. I've got the next comic all planned out.

[silversaraph]

Yes! Five webcomic makers I almost sorta kinda know!

Is Remus going to be a main character? Deceptively useless animal companions are the best.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Well, the animal sidekicks are all minor characters. Can't say anymore for spoilers.

[dragongirl13]

Liking it so far. The jokes are pretty funny. Especially the first comic strip...

I'll continue to read this. :smallsmile:

[DarkElfGangsta]

I like it so far too as well also.
only thing is, are their limbs long intentionally?

[CoffeeIncluded]

I like it so far too as well also.
only thing is, are their limbs long intentionally?

Yes they are. I find it provides for a greater range of movement. It may be OOTS-style, but that doesn't mean I can't take some liberties to fit my own preferences.

[The Dark Fiddler]

Apparently I haven't said anything yet, but I'll be watching this comic.

Also, I almost got Murphy's Law mixed up with Godwin's Law when trying to remember what the title meant. Now I'm wondering how a webcomic based on Godwin's Law would work...

[CoffeeIncluded]

Also, I almost got Murphy's Law mixed up with Godwin's Law when trying to remember what the title meant. Now I'm wondering how a webcomic based on Godwin's Law would work...

My life expectancy in the Playground would be measured in seconds after the first post, no matter how much I tried to excuse myself by saying, "I'm Jewish, I can say it, it's okay!"

[Fay Graydon]

WHAT is Murphy's Law by the way?
I thought it was "Sods Law" I.e. anything bad that can happen will happen...

[CoffeeIncluded]

Murphy's Law: Anything that can possibly go wrong will.

[Fay Graydon]

Murphy's Law: Anything that can possibly go wrong will.

Ahhhh so it IS Sods law...
Cept... like the American version... which makes it inferior
partly cuz its the American version, but mainly as its not as silly a name as "Sods law" :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Comic 4!

#4: Subversions


http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/Subversions.png

[Silverraptor]

Love the Half-orc joke!:smallbiggrin:

By the way, you should set up your first post the same way I set up mine. Putting direct links in an archive and posting the newest one in image form. Otherwise, eventually the thread will slow down.

[CoffeeIncluded]

He's actually a full orc. :smallbiggrin:

I'll probably do that around comic 6-8 or something.

[Silverraptor]

He's actually a full orc. :smallbiggrin:

I'll probably do that around comic 6-8 or something.

If so, then his strength would be 12 since he gets a +4 to strength and the standard starting stat is 8.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Yes, but when I say he got strength screwed... He got strength screwed.

[The Dark Fiddler]

He rolled poorly.

Also, good thing they didn't take that bear asses quest.

They need 20, but you'd be surprised how few bears have them. We'd need to watch them kill like... 100!

[Silverraptor]

He rolled poorly.

Also, good thing they didn't take that bear asses quest.

They need 20, but you'd be surprised how few bears have them. We'd need to watch them kill like... 100!

That's alot of constipated bears...:smalltongue:

[Zanaril]

..Dire bear asses. :smallbiggrin: Brilliant.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Glad I helped you feel better.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Well, this update was fast. Now back to studying!

#5: Oddly, They Didn't Confiscate His Weapons
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/OddlyTheyDidntConfiscateHisWeapons.png

[Fay Graydon]

Well, this update was fast. Now back to studying!

#5: Oddly, They Didn't Confiscate His Weapons
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/OddlyTheyDidntConfiscateHisWeapons.png

Hurray! random new character introduction! :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Hurray! random new character introduction! :smalltongue:

Guess his class and alignment. :smalltongue:

[Fay Graydon]

Guess his class and alignment. :smalltongue:

Hmmmm... Rouge Specializing in lock picking and pickpocketing as his main focus with few points in move silently.
And Chaotic Crazy? :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Hmmmm... Rouge Specializing in lock picking and pickpocketing as his main focus with few points in move silently.
And Chaotic Crazy? :smalltongue:

Ehh, pretty much. And what makes you think Chaotic crazy? :smalltongue:

[Fay Graydon]

Ehh, pretty much. And what makes you think Chaotic crazy? :smalltongue:

The look in his eyes... It was madness I tell you! MADNESS :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

The look in his eyes... It was madness I tell you! MADNESS :smalltongue:

Fantastic first impression, Matt. :smalltongue:

Do you like this comic so far?

(And note what Lloyd said about the Green Dragon...)

[Fay Graydon]

Fantastic first impression, Matt. :smalltongue:

Do you like this comic so far?

(And note what Lloyd said about the Green Dragon...)

Yeah its great hun :smallbiggrin:
It's one of the few comics I actually read... although I dont really understand the D&D jokes :smallfrown:.
But still I think its great and will be an avid follower.

[drengnikrafe]

These jokes...

I like them. I tried to write a comic once, but it crashed and burned rather quickly (as in, it was entirely ignored) and it struggled horribly because of continuity issues.

Pointless backstory aside, this comic sounds like it mostly addresses things things that happen in your own campaigns. So, the jokes that have happened to me as well are hysterical. The ones that haven't aren't quite as funny in my mind, but I can see the basis of the humor.

In conclusion, you make your jokes reasonably clear, and have humor dashed in amongst the story. Very fun.

[Silverraptor]

Right, so christmas is around the corner. Are you going to be able to make comics like crazy like I will have the opportunity too?

[CoffeeIncluded]

Yep! I'll be working on one tomorrow! :smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

New comic! Enjoy and please leave criticism!

#6: This Will Work Out Great!

http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/ThisWillWorkOutGreat.png

[Fay Graydon]

New comic! Enjoy and please leave criticism!

#6: This Will Work Out Great!

http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/ThisWillWorkOutGreat.png

I think I've found my Favourate Character! :smallbiggrin:
"Just for the record... I hate all of you..." Tee hee

Great comic! Keep em coming!

[CoffeeIncluded]

I think I've found my Favourate Character! :smallbiggrin:
"Just for the record... I hate all of you..." Tee hee

Great comic! Keep em coming!

Heehee, thanks! :smallbiggrin: Matt is fun to write.

What about the rest of comic, if you don't mind? (Like Lloyd's explanation and the...Other option.)

[Fay Graydon]

Heehee, thanks! :smallbiggrin: Matt is fun to write.

What about the rest of comic, if you don't mind? (Like Lloyd's explanation and the...Other option.)

I would have had the guys nickname "Killer" as something a little more... rude....
but yeah in whole the comic was good.
I like the fact that the paladin shows the classic cockyness in the way that "Anyone can be redeemed"

[CoffeeIncluded]

I like the fact that the paladin shows the classic cockyness in the way that "Anyone can be redeemed"

Cocky? How so? (Not to be rude, just want to know why you think that.)

[Fay Graydon]

Cocky? How so? (Not to be rude, just want to know why you think that.)

Hes just to overconfident in himself like a good palidin should be ^^

[CoffeeIncluded]

Hes just to overconfident in himself like a good palidin should be ^^

Well, he has reasons. (Which you shall see.)

But he doesn't come across as a Miko, right?

[Fay Graydon]

Well, he has reasons. (Which you shall see.)

But he doesn't come across as a Miko, right?

Errrrr I miiiight have Glassed over the Miko Story arch >.>

[CoffeeIncluded]

Errrrr I miiiight have Glassed over the Miko Story arch >.>

*Facepalm*

Mike has the stick so firmly implanted in her ass that it comes out her mouth.

[Fay Graydon]

*Facepalm*

Mike has the stick so firmly implanted in her ass that it comes out her mouth.

Ah! no your Pali seems more like the "Party Leader" type of paladin rather then the super holyer then thou

[CoffeeIncluded]

Ah! no your Pali seems more like the "Party Leader" type of paladin rather then the super holyer then thou

Yay; I got what I was aiming for! :smallbiggrin:

There's actually a good reason for why he's a good leader. You'll see!

And Lloyd's actually multiclass.

[Aaron]

Yay; I got what I was aiming for! :smallbiggrin:

There's actually a good reason for why he's a good leader. You'll see!

And Lloyd's actually multiclass.

Lloyd doesn't seem like a "Miko Paladin" to me either. He's a party leader paladin rather than a paladin with a stick shoved so violently up their ass that (insert rambling here :smallwink:)!

Hmm, multi-classed you say. If I were a paladin I would have multi-classed to fighter. Plus, Lloyd seems a bit like Roy. :smallwink:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Well, he's taken at least two levels of fighter. Lloyd will elaborate more later. It's a plot point. A very important plot point.

Do you like this so far? I mean, if you could please give constructive criticism, I would appreciate it.

I'm glad you enjoy it though.

[Silverraptor]

I'm glad you achieved the "Non-Miko" paladin that you were aiming for. I liked this comic pretty well. "I'll even take levels in 'monk'!" Priceless.:smallamused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

I'm glad you achieved the "Non-Miko" paladin that you were aiming for. I liked this comic pretty well. "I'll even take levels in 'monk'!" Priceless.:smallamused:

Thank you! :smallbiggrin:

Yeah, the poor guy's desperate.

[Fay Graydon]

Id rather be a multiclassed Cleric / Fighter then a Paladin / Fighter...
Would make more sense that way.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Id rather be a multiclassed Cleric / Fighter then a Paladin / Fighter...
Would make more sense that way.

Well, like I said, there's an important canonical reason.

Hint: He started out as a Fighter, then took Paladin (And stuck with paladin) later. I'm not telling anything else though. :smallwink:

[Fay Graydon]

Well, like I said, there's an important canonical reason.

Hint: He started out as a Fighter, then took Paladin (And stuck with paladin) later. I'm not telling anything else though. :smallwink:

Took fighter for the er....
Actually i have no Idea what bonus's a Fighter gets over a Paladin :smallconfused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Took fighter for the er....
Actually i have no Idea what bonus's a Fighter gets over a Paladin :smallconfused:

Fighters get a bunch of bonus feats.

There's another reason...

[Fay Graydon]

Ooooh okay fair enough.

[Aaron]

Well, he's taken at least two levels of fighter. Lloyd will elaborate more later. It's a plot point. A very important plot point.

Do you like this so far? I mean, if you could please give constructive criticism, I would appreciate it.

I'm glad you enjoy it though.

Criticism? Hmm... well, in the fourth comic, I think that the message board papers should have some scribble lines on them so they don't look so blank. Can't really find anything else to criticize.

I just noticed that I'm the first one to notice Matt is in the background of the third comic. (OK, Silverraptor noticed, but he helped start this comic. :smalltongue:)

And yes, do like this comic. Both this comic and Silverraptor's Idiosyncrasy (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=123238)comic reminds me of my DnD Campaigns. :smallwink:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Criticism? Hmm... well, in the fourth comic, I think that the message board papers should have some scribble lines on them so they don't look so blank. Can't really find anything else to criticize.

I just noticed that I'm the first one to notice Matt is in the background of the third comic.

Yeah, I'll be sure to put that in next time.

Good for you! (Do you like Matt?)

And thank you! :smallbiggrin:

[EmeraldPhoenix]

(Do you like Matt?)

Matt?
I love Matt. :smallbiggrin:
Matt is my new favorite character in anything ever.
Please write more Matt.

[Silverraptor]

And yes, do like this comic. Both this comic and Silverraptor's Idiosyncrasy (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=123238)comic reminds me of my DnD Campaigns. :smallwink:

Well... thank you!:smallbiggrin:

And I feel I may update it soon. I'm going to wait until I have a few comics done before I start updating it again.

[Aaron]

(Do you like Matt?)

I love Matt. "I'll take levels in Monk!"
Priceless!:smallbiggrin:


Well... thank you!:smallbiggrin:

And I feel I may update it soon. I'm going to wait until I have a few comics done before I start updating it again.

Hooray! :smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Wow, I had no idea Matt was so popular...

*Rubs hands in glee*

[EmeraldPhoenix]

Speaking of Matt...

Has anyone else noticed that he's stealing a bag with a $ sign on it in the background of the 3rd comic?

That, my friends, is foreshadowing.

[Silverraptor]

Speaking of Matt...

Has anyone else noticed that he's stealing a bag with a $ sign on it in the background of the 3rd comic?

That, my friends, is foreshadowing.

You've been beat.:smallamused:



I just noticed that I'm the first one to notice Matt is in the background of the third comic. (OK, Silverraptor noticed, but he helped start this comic. :smalltongue:)

[Aaron]

Wow, I had no idea Matt was so popular...

*Rubs hands in glee*

:smallconfused: Just what are you planing?


You've been beat.:smallamused:

I win a cookie! :smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

:smallconfused: Just what are you planing?



I win a cookie! :smallbiggrin:

Oh, just the main comic relief character of the strip. Especially since he's doing this against his will. :smallbiggrin:

Gingerbread, or chocolate chip?

[Aaron]

Oh, just the main comic relief character of the strip. Especially since he's doing this against his will. :smallbiggrin:

Gingerbread, or chocolate chip?

Whew. Thats a relief.

Double chocolate chip! :smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Cookies for everyone! :smallbiggrin:

[Illven]

Is Lloyd's everyone can be redeemed thing and the fact he started as a fighter mean he wasn't always Lawful good, But the comic is very good

[CoffeeIncluded]

Is Lloyd's everyone can be redeemed thing and the fact he started as a fighter mean he wasn't always Lawful good, But the comic is very good

You'll see! :smallwink:

And thank you!

[Fay Graydon]

I second his remark!
And demand (Very politely) more comics! :smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

I second his remark!
And demand (Very politely) more comics! :smallbiggrin:

Christmas break starts Wednesday.

[Fay Graydon]

I'm already on Christmas Break :smallsmile:

[The Dark Fiddler]

Christmas break starts Wednesday.

You have to wait that long too? I'm not the only one?!

Joyful day!

*cough* Sorry to hear that, Coffee.

[Rae Artemi]

You have to wait that long too? I'm not the only one?!

Joyful day!

*cough* Sorry to hear that, Coffee.

I have to wait till wednesday too :smallfrown:

[Aaron]

Cookies for everyone! :smallbiggrin:

*grabs some yummy cookies*

:smallconfused: What? You didn't think I was gonna take all of them, did you? :smallwink:

[CoffeeIncluded]

And a new comic!

#7: Off On The Wrong Foot
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/OffOnTheWrongFoot.png

Oh, and for those who don't know, Salix is Latin for Willow.

[Silverraptor]

Yup. A growling dog will certainly keep him from running.:smallamused:

[Aaron]

Yup. A growling dog will certainly keep him from running.:smallamused:

Well, look at how sharp it's those teeth look. I wouldn't want him to bite my stick figure legs. :smallamused:

Hmm, Lloyd almost said something about his past. Soooo close. :smallwink:

[The Dark Fiddler]

Lloyd's past: the new V's gender.

...does that make Lloyd the fandom bike? :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Lloyd's past: the new V's gender.

...does that make Lloyd the fandom bike? :smalltongue:

No, because unlike V's gender, Lloyd's past soon becomes very, very established.

But come on! Time for some Wild Mass Guessing! :smallbiggrin:

What do you like about this comic?

[Aaron]

Coffee, you might want to put something about your comic in your sig so others will find out about it easier, like what Silverraptor did. Just a thought. :smallsmile:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Okay.

Hey, do you have any guesses on Lloyd's past? :smallsmile:

[Silverraptor]

Okay.

Hey, do you have any guesses on Lloyd's past? :smallsmile:

Ooooo! Oooo! Over here! I know! I know!

*Waves hand in the hair*

[CoffeeIncluded]

...Anyone else?

Silver, what did you like about this comic so far? Or this strip in particular?

[Silverraptor]

...Anyone else?

Silver, what did you like about this comic so far? Or this strip in particular?

How everything is running smoothly. It makes me want to update Idiosyncrasy right now! If I had inkscape at the moment that is.:smallannoyed:

[CoffeeIncluded]

How everything is running smoothly. It makes me want to update Idiosyncrasy right now! If I had inkscape at the moment that is.:smallannoyed:

Did you like Lloyd's line in the last panel?

[Silverraptor]

Yup.:smallamused: And I'm pretty sure that he's right, what with his past and everything.:smallamused: Hey, it would've been worse punishment if he stayed longer.:smalltongue:

Cryptic messages for the win!:smallcool:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Yup.:smallamused: And I'm pretty sure that he's right, what with his past and everything.:smallamused: Hey, it would've been worse punishment if he stayed longer.:smalltongue:

Cryptic messages for the win!:smallcool:

You've got that right.

[Aaron]

Ooooo! Oooo! Over here! I know! I know!

*Waves hand in the hair*

Hey! No cheating. You allready know the answer. :smalltongue:


How everything is running smoothly. It makes me want to update Idiosyncrasy right now! If I had inkscape at the moment that is.:smallannoyed:

Aww man. But I wanted to see if your party runs away or stays and fight. :smalltongue:


Yup.:smallamused: And I'm pretty sure that he's right, what with his past and everything.:smallamused: Hey, it would've been worse punishment if he stayed longer.:smalltongue:

Cryptic messages for the win!:smallcool:

Hmm... Secret messages secretly put in a secret statement, secretly... Sounds familiar... :smallwink:

[CoffeeIncluded]

New comic time!

#8: Well, She IS A Druid
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/WellSheISADruid.png

Thoughts? I thought this one fell a bit flat, but the next one will be funny, I promise!

[EmeraldPhoenix]

I may create Matt fanart in the near future.
Matt.
I still love Matt.
Yeah.

[CoffeeIncluded]

I may create Matt fanart in the near future.
Matt.
I still love Matt.
Yeah.

Really?

...Wow. Awesome, :smallredface:

If you do, and it's not OOTS-style, just one thing about the blue spikey hair: Matt has very long bangs, which he has dyed blue. He then pulled up his bangs and tied them up into the two blue spikes which you see.

[Zanaril]

What does weasel even taste like? :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

What does weasel even taste like? :smalltongue:

Probably quite gamey. :smalltongue:

You like?

[Zanaril]

Probably quite gamey. :smalltongue:

You like?

Yeah. :smallsmile:

It's cute how the weasel end up sitting on her head.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Yeah. :smallsmile:

It's cute how the weasel end up sitting on her head.

Well, she is a druid, after all. It's practically in the job description that she has to be a friend to all living things. And since she's Neutral Good... :smallsmile:

And the weasel will appear in the next comic. Which I will have a lot of fun working on.

[The Dark Fiddler]

Thoughts?

This is why every traveling Druid should have Goodberry prepared. 2d4 berries that provide a full meal? Yes please! :smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

This is why every traveling Druid should have Goodberry prepared. 2d4 berries that provide a full meal? Yes please! :smallbiggrin:

Yes, but when they have a cleric who can cast Create Food, it's not really necessary.

Besides, Radic has ranks in Survival. :smalltongue:

[Silverraptor]

What does weasel even taste like? :smalltongue:

It tastes like a combination of the California Condor and a Spotted Owl.:smalltongue:

I'm joking of course.:smallamused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

It tastes like a combination of the California Condor and a Spotted Owl.:smalltongue:

I'm joking of course.:smallamused:

That's good, otherwise I'd be pissed.

Didja like?

And I'm pretty sure you know what's in the next comic.

Oh, and I'll post the secret santa comic here once they get introduced; is that okay with you?

[Silverraptor]

That's good, otherwise I'd be pissed.

Didja like?

And I'm pretty sure you know what's in the next comic.

Oh, and I'll post the secret santa comic here once they get introduced; is that okay with you?
Ya. Of course.

And can't wait.

[ClericOfBelker]

Nice comic Coffee! :smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Nice comic Coffee! :smallbiggrin:

Why thank you!

[Aaron]

It's cute how the weasel end up sitting on her head.

I also like how the weasel is smiling in the last panel, after seeing it is safe from the angry, hungry rouge.:smallsmile:

[CoffeeIncluded]

And new comic time! :smallbiggrin:

I had a lot of fun with this one.

#9: Don't Worry, The Weasel's Alright
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/DontWorryTheWeaselsAlright.png

[Silverraptor]

And cut! Great work people!:smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

And cut! Great work people!:smallbiggrin:

Did you like this one? :smalltongue:

[Silverraptor]

Did you like this one? :smalltongue:

We were talking about it behind the scenes. Of course I liked it!:smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

We were talking about it behind the scenes. Of course I liked it!:smallbiggrin:

Can a weasel possibly do that much damage?

Oh, and new Crack Pairings Thread! :smallbiggrin:

[Silverraptor]

Can a weasel possibly do that much damage?

Oh, and new Crack Pairings Thread! :smallbiggrin:

A regular house cat can kill a level 1 human.:smallamused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

A regular house cat can kill a level 1 human.:smallamused:

So how much damage can a weasel do?

...And do you feel sorry for Matt now? Did I go too far? :smalltongue:

[Silverraptor]

So how much damage can a weasel do?

...And do you feel sorry for Matt now? Did I go too far? :smalltongue:

Just wait for other people to notice.:smallamused:

[Sstoopidtallkid]

So how much damage can a weasel do? Among other things, they can latch on and blood drain. I recommend considering that, the earlier discussion, and where the weasel ended up. Having fun yet?

[CoffeeIncluded]

Among other things, they can latch on and blood drain. I recommend considering that, the earlier discussion, and where the weasel ended up. Having fun yet?

Oh man, poor Matt. :smallbiggrin:

EDIT: Wait, I think that's a Dire weasel. This is just a regular weasel.

Still, I highly doubt an aggressive weasel in one's pants would be considered fun by any stretch of the word.

[ClericOfBelker]

Matt's not having the best of days! :smalleek::smallbiggrin:

[Silverraptor]

Matt's not having the best of days! :smalleek::smallbiggrin:

And he's been only traveling with them for a few hours.:smallamused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

And he's been only traveling with them for a few hours.:smallamused:

Do you think he's starting to prefer Max Security now? :smallamused:

Also, have I gone to far with an angry weasel in his pants? :smalltongue:

[Silverraptor]

Do you think he's starting to prefer Max Security now? :smallamused:

Also, have I gone to far with an angry weasel in his pants? :smalltongue:

Coffee, you can *NEVER* go too far in a webcomic. Just look at mine, SR met a Ancient Red Dragon as his first encounter with the group.:smallamused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Coffee, you can *NEVER* go too far in a webcomic. Just look at mine, SR met a Ancient Red Dragon as his first encounter with the group.:smallamused:

Okay then. :smalltongue:

Good thing they've got a cleric.

I'd mention Lloyd's "Lay On Hands" ability, but...Crack pairing. :smallamused:

[Silverraptor]

Yes. Crack pairings.:smalltongue:

[Nathander]

Having only just now seen the ninth comic, I have to say that I feel it's a nice step in your progress. For one, it has characters interacting without Lloyd being present (aside from the final panel). Previously, he had been the main character discussion was conducted around, so it's nice that you're allowing breathing room for the other characters so early on. I also feel the joke itself, despite being a common one in fantasy parodies (and D&D in particular, for good reason), comes off incredibly well. It really brought a smile to my face. Can't wait for the next one.

In my reply in the crack pairings thread, you said that you were surprised why Matt was so popular. Why I certainly can't speak for everyone, my main belief is because he's the "outsider" character in comparison to everyone else in the party (so far). While this archtype usually possesses traits that most people would hate in real life (egotism, arrogance, ect.), we tend to love this traits in fictional characters. Just my two cents, really.

As for guessing on Lloyd's past, I have a few theories I want to give a try.

1) Lloyd was, at one point, either a well-known mercenary or warlord. My main evidence for this is the fact that he has some form of title that clearly isn't his name (at least, current name) that he expects others will recognize and respect. Another for it is that there was clearly one point in his life that he most likely looks back on in shame due to his statement that anyone can be redeemed. While that would be an ideology held by most paladins correctly adhering to their alignment, Lloyd seems to have been set up in the earlier strips that he's pragmatic enough to not simply believing something because it's part of a creed. Rather, he's actually seen it happen, and I'm casting my bet that it was for him. Finally, Lloyd's comment on the green dragon only being CR 9 shows that he's more than likely fairly high level, most likely a few higher than his current party members. This helps set up that he could have one time been someone renowned, at least in certain circles.

So my bet is that at one point he was either bordering on an evil alignment, if not flat out one, and suffered some kind of calamity that ended up causing him to change his path.

2) Technically, this more augments the possibility of the above than anything, but I also propose that a curse is currently active on Lloyd. Considering the title of the comic is "Murphy's Law", I'm expecting that Lloyd committed some kind of deed that ended up getting him cursed. The curse most likely has led him from what could have been a successful (though most likely evil or borderline evil) life into constant failure due to the curse. I'm expecting that there's either a set amount of good he has to honestly due in the world before the deed can be lifted, or there's a specific larger quest he needs to complete first. Either way, this curse may have been what pushed him to change his life around, if that's indeed what happened.


Of course, I'm expecting I'm going to be way-off base. :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Having only just now seen the ninth comic, I have to say that I feel it's a nice step in your progress. For one, it has characters interacting without Lloyd being present (aside from the final panel). Previously, he had been the main character discussion was conducted around, so it's nice that you're allowing breathing room for the other characters so early on. I also feel the joke itself, despite being a common one in fantasy parodies (and D&D in particular, for good reason), comes off incredibly well. It really brought a smile to my face. Can't wait for the next one.

In my reply in the crack pairings thread, you said that you were surprised why Matt was so popular. Why I certainly can't speak for everyone, my main belief is because he's the "outsider" character in comparison to everyone else in the party (so far). While this archtype usually possesses traits that most people would hate in real life (egotism, arrogance, ect.), we tend to love this traits in fictional characters. Just my two cents, really.

As for guessing on Lloyd's past, I have a few theories I want to give a try.

1) Lloyd was, at one point, either a well-known mercenary or warlord. My main evidence for this is the fact that he has some form of title that clearly isn't his name (at least, current name) that he expects others will recognize and respect. Another for it is that there was clearly one point in his life that he most likely looks back on in shame due to his statement that anyone can be redeemed. While that would be an ideology held by most paladins correctly adhering to their alignment, Lloyd seems to have been set up in the earlier strips that he's pragmatic enough to not simply believing something because it's part of a creed. Rather, he's actually seen it happen, and I'm casting my bet that it was for him. Finally, Lloyd's comment on the green dragon only being CR 9 shows that he's more than likely fairly high level, most likely a few higher than his current party members. This helps set up that he could have one time been someone renowned, at least in certain circles.

So my bet is that at one point he was either bordering on an evil alignment, if not flat out one, and suffered some kind of calamity that ended up causing him to change his path.

2) Technically, this more augments the possibility of the above than anything, but I also propose that a curse is currently active on Lloyd. Considering the title of the comic is "Murphy's Law", I'm expecting that Lloyd committed some kind of deed that ended up getting him cursed. The curse most likely has led him from what could have been a successful (though most likely evil or borderline evil) life into constant failure due to the curse. I'm expecting that there's either a set amount of good he has to honestly due in the world before the deed can be lifted, or there's a specific larger quest he needs to complete first. Either way, this curse may have been what pushed him to change his life around, if that's indeed what happened.


Of course, I'm expecting I'm going to be way-off base. :smalltongue:

Why thank you. :smallsmile:

And as for your theories, you'll find out soon enough. Piece by piece.

[Sstoopidtallkid]

Here's some fanfic, warning:Complete and utter crack, and far less polished than I normally post. Humans are so confusing. A few minutes ago these two were at each other's throats over me, and now he's complimenting her on her clothes? And is she blushing when she says it goes well with her dress?
...oh my. "Show off your figure?" A rabbit would call that too forward. And she giggled? Well, at least he's keeping up the compliments, though he has no idea what' proper conversation is with ladies present. Aaand now he just called her attractive as crudely as he possibly could. Why is someone as
wise as she is falling for something as moronic as this? She must not be used to the idea that the guys of the world would want to see her figure, though really, he only cares about one thing...Oh no. She's calculating now. What is she thinking? Um...what does she mean, 'Has he ever had a 3-way?' AWAKEN SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR THIS!!!

Dang. That was totally worth it once he let me into his pants. Shorter than I'd planned, but I couldn't make the most obvious viewpoints work.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Here's some fanfic, warning:Complete and utter crack, and far less polished than I normally post. Humans are so confusing. A few minutes ago these two were at each other's throats over me, and now he's complimenting her on her clothes? And is she blushing when she says it goes well with her dress?
...oh my. "Show off your figure?" A rabbit would call that too forward. And she giggled? Well, at least he's keeping up the compliments, though he has no idea what' proper conversation is with ladies present. Aaand now he just called her attractive as crudely as he possibly could. Why is someone as
wise as she is falling for something as moronic as this? She must not be used to the idea that the guys of the world would want to see her figure, though really, he only cares about one thing...Oh no. She's calculating now. What is she thinking? Um...what does she mean, 'Has he ever had a 3-way?' AWAKEN SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR THIS!!!

Dang. That was totally worth it once he let me into his pants. Shorter than I'd planned, but I couldn't make the most obvious viewpoints work.

*Doubles over laughing*

[Silverraptor]

I'd like to point out that in the second to last panel the weasel's missing.

[CoffeeIncluded]

I'd like to point out that in the second to last panel the weasel's missing.

Uhm...He ran off to get some food, then ran back?

[Dark Faun]

He'll stop complaining once he remembers Cure... Wounds are touch spells and they have an overeager nymphomaniac for a cleric. :smallamused:

Speaking of Janine...

http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv331/Discordd/OotS/Murphys%20Law/A1.png

http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv331/Discordd/OotS/Murphys%20Law/A2.png

http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv331/Discordd/OotS/Murphys%20Law/A3.png

http://i697.photobucket.com/albums/vv331/Discordd/OotS/Murphys%20Law/A4.png

[drengnikrafe]

Ahh, more wonderful comics.

This particular punch line seems to have it's humor more universally understood.

[CoffeeIncluded]

He'll stop complaining once he remembers Cure... Wounds are touch spells and they have an overeager nymphomaniac for a cleric. :smallamused:

Speaking of Janine...

Hilarious comic

Did I mention I love that comic? :smallbiggrin:

Or Lloyd the paladin, who has Lay On Hands as a class feature. :smalltongue:

[ShneekeyTheLost]

Yanno... considering the druid was casting a spell on the Weasel, and the fact that a CR 9 dragon is apparently not a significant challenge, this (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/animalGrowth.htm) spell could have easily been involved, which would have made the weasel significantly more dangerous in combat. Failing that... well, druids get some very nasty buffing ability... stoneskin, barkskin, Greater Magic Fang...

Also, love the plotline as it has been developing so far

[Dark Faun]

Did I mention I love that comic? :smallbiggrin:
:smallredface:


Or Lloyd the paladin, who has Lay On Hands as a class feature. :smalltongue:
Maybe he can improvise a Slap On Hands. :smalltongue:

In any case, here's the weasel's stats (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/monsters/weasel.htm).

[Aaron]

Also, have I gone to far with an angry weasel in his pants? :smalltongue:

Like Silverraptor said, you can never go too far. :smallwink:

Great comic Coffee. I just found it too funny.

And I can tell Silverraptor "helped" alot with making this comic. :smallwink:

[Silverraptor]

Like Silverraptor said, you can never go too far. :smallwink:

Great comic Coffee. I just found it too funny.

And I can tell Silverraptor "helped" alot with making this comic. :smallwink:

What do you mean by that?:smallconfused:

And I think I know why this comic is more exciting than mine. Mine is taking forever to move on with the plot. Which is ironic since I put it on hiatus just before they do nothing but plot for a long while.

Here's a note to all comic makers; Don't put non-plot in the beginning and then constant continuous plot later. It doesn't grab people's attention that well.:smallsigh:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Like Silverraptor said, you can never go too far. :smallwink:

Great comic Coffee. I just found it too funny.

And I can tell Silverraptor "helped" alot with making this comic. :smallwink:

Thank you!

Actually, all the jokes and stuff have been mine. Silver's been helping me out with hearing my ideas and with game mechanics.

Oh, and Shneeky, they're actually around level 10. So Lloyd believes they'll be able to take down the dragon without too much trouble.

[Zanaril]

Great comic. I lol'd.


Matt is a bit of an idiot though; you don't annoy someone armed with a rodent.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Great comic. I lol'd.


Matt is a bit of an idiot though; you don't annoy someone armed with a rodent.

Elaboration:You DEFINITELY don't annoy someone armed with a rodent who has a divine link to nature and can command it to attack at will.

[ShinyDelusion]

Greetings, fellow Murphy's Law fans! I hail from the Crack Pairings Thread bearing *dramatic pause* a fanfic.

After I posted it over there, where it feels most at home, Coffee requested I post it here too, so, without further ado, I bring you: BelkarxMatt!

Starts immediately after the latest installment (9) of Murhpy's Law. (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/DontWorryTheWeaselsAlright.png)


“Went down your--” Lloyd began to say.

“And that is all I’m going to say about it,” Matt cut him off flatly.

“Whatever,” said Lloyd, looking at Matt’s weasel-inflicted wounds critically, “You should probably go get Janine to heal you.”

“Can’t paladins heal?” Matt asked, not sure where Janine was and in no mood to search for her while every scratch on his body was still smarting.

“The technique’s called ‘Lay on Hands’,” Lloyd replied neutrally.

“Oh,” said Matt. A few seconds of silence passed. “This sucks,” he added in a grumble.

“More than max security?” Lloyd asked as a reminder.

“No,” said Matt darkly, staring broodingly into the middle distance.


---

It was two years ago, back when he was just learning how to get away with things and had recently tried to put a red streak in his hair. The hair was a minor fiasco—he’d bleached first and the red dye wasn’t strong enough, leaving the streak an embarrassingly pretty purplish pink; maybe he should try blue next time—but he was getting to be a really good rogue. Or so he thought.

In retrospect he realized that he probably shouldn’t have been so cocky—after all it was already the sixth time he’d been caught stealing and he’d only been at it a few months—but back in those days he’d felt like he could do anything, like he was untouchable. Sure, he’d gotten thrown in the local jailhouse once or twice, but those cells were a joke; he watched a party full of Level 2 adventures with not a rogue among them break out in ten minutes flat once. Of course, those were the lowest security cells, not max. He didn’t know yet that when they threw you in max, you weren’t getting yourself out any time soon unless you were epic level or something.

That day, the day he got caught for the sixth time, they threw him in max.

“I really am sorry, kid,” the warden had told him grimly, “But today we got three adventuring parties filled with chaotic types who thought they’d found the second easiest way to get some extra gps; the cells are packed, so you’re going to have to go in max.”

“Whatever,” Matt muttered.

A little annoyed by the boy’s indifference, the warden added, “Just so you know, your cell mate got life for massacring a relatively peaceful group of kobold merchants for the XP and…” He gulped. “Accessorizing opportunities.”

“Whatever,” Matt repeated. Wait a minute, what about accessorizing?

“He gets violent when we try to remove things from his cell,” he went on, now honestly angered by the boy’s lack of interest, “Such as the beheaded corpses of former cell mates…”

“What do you mean--” Matt began to ask, a little panicked, before regaining his cool. “You’re making that up just to scare me.”

“If only,” the warden said with a sigh, “I suggest you just try to have a conversation with him; some say the solitude’s made him snap. Ah, here we are.”

At first Matt thought his cellmate was a kobold. Then, gagging, he realized what the warden had meant by “accessorizing opportunities”.

“How’s it going, Killer?” the warden asked with false joviality.

Clutching a human skull pointed at the warden, the filthy Halfling shrieked, “Fireball! Fireball now, or I’ll give you something to Fear you worthless undead piece of crap!”

“This is your new roomie!” the warden continued, forcing himself to smile in the hope that the Halfling would calm down, “His name is Matthew Silver.”

Matt was too terrified to correct him.

While the Halfling did something partially hidden but, Matt feared, definitely obscene to the skull that wouldn’t obey his commands, the warden very quickly unlocked the cell, shoved Matt in, and relocked it.

“I really am sorry,” the warden told Matt again, “If one of those parties breaks out, I’ll get you out of here pronto, but…” He glanced at the Halfling. “It’d be a lie to tell you anything but this: From here it can only get worse.”

He left Matt alone with this thought. And the delusional, psychopathic Halfling.

It took several minutes for the Halfling to get bored with… what he was doing with the skull, but once he did, he took an immediate interest in Matt.

“You don’t look like max security material,” he told the boy smugly, “I guess without the Belkster out there to show ‘em how it’s done, the standards are dropping.”

Matt could manage nothing but a deer-in-the-headlights expression. At this point he was so scared he was barely even breathing.

To his wide-eyed horror, the Halfling began to approach him, picking up a severed head that was lying on the floor by its silvery hair on the way.

“Let’s get a few things straight,” the murderer said, “When they bring the grub in, your plate goes to Mr. Scruffy.” He began stroking the hair on the head affectionately. “Of course none of the stuff here’s good enough for his carnivore tastes, but he’s gotta eat eventually, and when he finally gets hungry enough, he is not going to starve on your account. Got it, wuss?”

Matt managed a nod. Living to see suppertime would be blessing enough. Glances around the room had let him count six different heads, and worryingly he’d only been able to spot four of the respective bodies…

“You really are a wuss, you know? You really shouldn’t be here…” As if too distracted by this revelation to hold his concentration on other things, the Halfling dropped the head known as “Mr. Scruffy.” He stared at Matt. For a long time.

“Aha!” Before Matt had time to realize anything was happening, the Halfling had him pinned to the ground and was yanking on a lock of his hair.

“Thought you could get a way with that?” the Halfling raved. The hand that wasn’t gripping Matt’s hair began fishing around in his grubby pockets for something. “Oh… I’ll do you for that, you androgynous twit…”

“Wh-what?!” Matt sputtered. Through the haze of pain the hair-pulling was spreading through his skull, he thought that the victimized hair might be that stupid attempt at a red streak, not that that was even remotely important right now…

“Come off it, Ears,” the lunatic snapped, yanking what appeared to be a sharpened spoon out of his pocket, “Your friggin’ lame disguise has failed epicly.” His eyes gleamed. “Then again, you always were one for epic failure, weren’t ya, pal?”

“What are you talking about?” Matt asked desperately. And, what did he mean by “Ears”? His voice now laced with disgust, he added, “You think I’m an elf?”

“I said come off it,” the Halfling repeated sharply. Then, to Matt’s surprise, he let go of his hair and his expression softened. “I guess I should’ve stopped bringing it up, after you told us everything that happened, but it was just too good; you finally admitted you screwed up.”

“Oh, I see,” Matt snarled, “An arrogant prick of an elf. Why you--”

“It was worth it, too,” the Halfling continued, now mostly ignoring Matt, “When you just kept blowing stuff up, especially when Roy was throwing hissy fits all the time because we wouldn’t knock it off. But then,” now his face flushed with rage, “You frickin’ set me up in this dump of a town with a frickin’ epic level prison!” He refocused his gaze on Matt. “And of course you had to come back and gloat,” he added, his voice cold.

“Dude,” said Matt, “I don’t even know what you’re talking about, and I’m not an elf! I hate elves!”

“Nice try, Ears,” said the Halfling, “But you really should have chosen a disguise that looked like it actually belonged in max security.” With a disturbing suddenness, the Halfling grinned. “Since you obviously can’t break out of this cell anymore than I can… Do you know what they do to pretty, purple-haired little elf-boys like you in prison, Vaarsuvius?”

“It’s Matt,” Matt spat, but his face was paling.

Brandishing the lethally sharp spoon, the madman said, “Because I’m about to show you.”


---

One of the adventuring parties did break out eventually, and the warden came to move Matt to another cell as he promised, in the nick of time, at that. Whenever Matt looked back on the whole incident (usually after waking up from a graphic nightmare) he shuddered to think what might have happened had he been left in there longer, but nonetheless wished that he could have been moved sooner.

In the weeks following his stay in prison Matt improved as a rogue very quickly. Before it’d been all about the loot but now he’d learned to focus on not getting caught. He decided he was never going to prison again and would do whatever it took to stay out of maximum security.


---

“Did you just have a flashback?” Lloyd asked Matt accusingly.

“Yeah,” said Matt, “Got a problem with that?”

“I’m the main character and I’ve already hinted at a dark and interesting backstory,” Lloyd said hotly, “I’m supposed to get the first flashback!”

Matt smirked. From here it could only get better.



Personally, I don't think Lloyd should complain; examining the first few lines and considering that this originated in the Crack Pairings Thread, that conversation could've gone in a completely different direction...

[CoffeeIncluded]

Greetings, fellow Murphy's Law fans! I hail from the Crack Pairings Thread bearing *dramatic pause* a fanfic.

After I posted it over there, where it feels most at home, Coffee requested I post it here too, so, without further ado, I bring you: BelkarxMatt!

Starts immediately after the latest installment (9) of Murhpy's Law. (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/DontWorryTheWeaselsAlright.png)


“Went down your--” Lloyd began to say.

“And that is all I’m going to say about it,” Matt cut him off flatly.

“Whatever,” said Lloyd, looking at Matt’s weasel-inflicted wounds critically, “You should probably go get Janine to heal you.”

“Can’t paladins heal?” Matt asked, not sure where Janine was and in no mood to search for her while every scratch on his body was still smarting.

“The technique’s called ‘Lay on Hands’,” Lloyd replied neutrally.

“Oh,” said Matt. A few seconds of silence passed. “This sucks,” he added in a grumble.

“More than max security?” Lloyd asked as a reminder.

“No,” said Matt darkly, staring broodingly into the middle distance.


---

It was two years ago, back when he was just learning how to get away with things and had recently tried to put a red streak in his hair. The hair was a minor fiasco—he’d bleached first and the red dye wasn’t strong enough, leaving the streak an embarrassingly pretty purplish pink; maybe he should try blue next time—but he was getting to be a really good rogue. Or so he thought.

In retrospect he realized that he probably shouldn’t have been so cocky—after all it was already the sixth time he’d been caught stealing and he’d only been at it a few months—but back in those days he’d felt like he could do anything, like he was untouchable. Sure, he’d gotten thrown in the local jailhouse once or twice, but those cells were a joke; he watched a party full of Level 2 adventures with not a rogue among them break out in ten minutes flat once. Of course, those were the lowest security cells, not max. He didn’t know yet that when they threw you in max, you weren’t getting yourself out any time soon unless you were epic level or something.

That day, the day he got caught for the sixth time, they threw him in max.

“I really am sorry, kid,” the warden had told him grimly, “But today we got three adventuring parties filled with chaotic types who thought they’d found the second easiest way to get some extra gps; the cells are packed, so you’re going to have to go in max.”

“Whatever,” Matt muttered.

A little annoyed by the boy’s indifference, the warden added, “Just so you know, your cell mate got life for massacring a relatively peaceful group of kobold merchants for the XP and…” He gulped. “Accessorizing opportunities.”

“Whatever,” Matt repeated. Wait a minute, what about accessorizing?

“He gets violent when we try to remove things from his cell,” he went on, now honestly angered by the boy’s lack of interest, “Such as the beheaded corpses of former cell mates…”

“What do you mean--” Matt began to ask, a little panicked, before regaining his cool. “You’re making that up just to scare me.”

“If only,” the warden said with a sigh, “I suggest you just try to have a conversation with him; some say the solitude’s made him snap. Ah, here we are.”

At first Matt thought his cellmate was a kobold. Then, gagging, he realized what the warden had meant by “accessorizing opportunities”.

“How’s it going, Killer?” the warden asked with false joviality.

Clutching a human skull pointed at the warden, the filthy Halfling shrieked, “Fireball! Fireball now, or I’ll give you something to Fear you worthless undead piece of crap!”

“This is your new roomie!” the warden continued, forcing himself to smile in the hope that the Halfling would calm down, “His name is Matthew Silver.”

Matt was too terrified to correct him.

While the Halfling did something partially hidden but, Matt feared, definitely obscene to the skull that wouldn’t obey his commands, the warden very quickly unlocked the cell, shoved Matt in, and relocked it.

“I really am sorry,” the warden told Matt again, “If one of those parties breaks out, I’ll get you out of here pronto, but…” He glanced at the Halfling. “It’d be a lie to tell you anything but this: From here it can only get worse.”

He left Matt alone with this thought. And the delusional, psychopathic Halfling.

It took several minutes for the Halfling to get bored with… what he was doing with the skull, but once he did, he took an immediate interest in Matt.

“You don’t look like max security material,” he told the boy smugly, “I guess without the Belkster out there to show ‘em how it’s done, the standards are dropping.”

Matt could manage nothing but a deer-in-the-headlights expression. At this point he was so scared he was barely even breathing.

To his wide-eyed horror, the Halfling began to approach him, picking up a severed head that was lying on the floor by its silvery hair on the way.

“Let’s get a few things straight,” the murderer said, “When they bring the grub in, your plate goes to Mr. Scruffy.” He began stroking the hair on the head affectionately. “Of course none of the stuff here’s good enough for his carnivore tastes, but he’s gotta eat eventually, and when he finally gets hungry enough, he is not going to starve on your account. Got it, wuss?”

Matt managed a nod. Living to see suppertime would be blessing enough. Glances around the room had let him count six different heads, and worryingly he’d only been able to spot four of the respective bodies…

“You really are a wuss, you know? You really shouldn’t be here…” As if too distracted by this revelation to hold his concentration on other things, the Halfling dropped the head known as “Mr. Scruffy.” He stared at Matt. For a long time.

“Aha!” Before Matt had time to realize anything was happening, the Halfling had him pinned to the ground and was yanking on a lock of his hair.

“Thought you could get a way with that?” the Halfling raved. The hand that wasn’t gripping Matt’s hair began fishing around in his grubby pockets for something. “Oh… I’ll do you for that, you androgynous twit…”

“Wh-what?!” Matt sputtered. Through the haze of pain the hair-pulling was spreading through his skull, he thought that the victimized hair might be that stupid attempt at a red streak, not that that was even remotely important right now…

“Come off it, Ears,” the lunatic snapped, yanking what appeared to be a sharpened spoon out of his pocket, “Your friggin’ lame disguise has failed epicly.” His eyes gleamed. “Then again, you always were one for epic failure, weren’t ya, pal?”

“What are you talking about?” Matt asked desperately. And, what did he mean by “Ears”? His voice now laced with disgust, he added, “You think I’m an elf?”

“I said come off it,” the Halfling repeated sharply. Then, to Matt’s surprise, he let go of his hair and his expression softened. “I guess I should’ve stopped bringing it up, after you told us everything that happened, but it was just too good; you finally admitted you screwed up.”

“Oh, I see,” Matt snarled, “An arrogant prick of an elf. Why you--”

“It was worth it, too,” the Halfling continued, now mostly ignoring Matt, “When you just kept blowing stuff up, especially when Roy was throwing hissy fits all the time because we wouldn’t knock it off. But then,” now his face flushed with rage, “You frickin’ set me up in this dump of a town with a frickin’ epic level prison!” He refocused his gaze on Matt. “And of course you had to come back and gloat,” he added, his voice cold.

“Dude,” said Matt, “I don’t even know what you’re talking about, and I’m not an elf! I hate elves!”

“Nice try, Ears,” said the Halfling, “But you really should have chosen a disguise that looked like it actually belonged in max security.” With a disturbing suddenness, the Halfling grinned. “Since you obviously can’t break out of this cell anymore than I can… Do you know what they do to pretty, purple-haired little elf-boys like you in prison, Vaarsuvius?”

“It’s Matt,” Matt spat, but his face was paling.

Brandishing the lethally sharp spoon, the madman said, “Because I’m about to show you.”


---

One of the adventuring parties did break out eventually, and the warden came to move Matt to another cell as he promised, in the nick of time, at that. Whenever Matt looked back on the whole incident (usually after waking up from a graphic nightmare) he shuddered to think what might have happened had he been left in there longer, but nonetheless wished that he could have been moved sooner.

In the weeks following his stay in prison Matt improved as a rogue very quickly. Before it’d been all about the loot but now he’d learned to focus on not getting caught. He decided he was never going to prison again and would do whatever it took to stay out of maximum security.


---

“Did you just have a flashback?” Lloyd asked Matt accusingly.

“Yeah,” said Matt, “Got a problem with that?”

“I’m the main character and I’ve already hinted at a dark and interesting backstory,” Lloyd said hotly, “I’m supposed to get the first flashback!”

Matt smirked. From here it could only get better.



Personally, I don't think Lloyd should complain; examining the first few lines and considering that this originated in the Crack Pairings Thread, that conversation could've gone in a completely different direction...

As I said, I love this.

People, I give explicit permission to go nuts with the crack pairings and so forth. Keep it PG-13 rated or lower, but other than that, go wild!

And as for ninjaing the canon, the very first bit.

[Sereg]

Great comic. I lol'd.


Matt is a bit of an idiot though; you don't annoy someone armed with a rodent.

Technically a mustelid (weasels, meerkats, mongooses, pine martens, stoats, badgers, wolverines, ferrets, anythying I've forgotten) and therefore even worse.

Yet again, great comic.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Technically a mustelid (weasels, meerkats, mongooses, pine martens, stoats, badgers, wolverines, ferrets, anythying I've forgotten) and therefore even worse.

Yet again, great comic.

Thank you.

And doh. *Facepalm* How could I have missed that?

[Aaron]

What do you mean by that?:smallconfused:

*facepalm*...never mind. I was just joking on how that comic had shipping and fanservice jokes in it. And you apparently hang around on the shipping thread. (I read it, but don't dare post there) :smalltongue:


And I think I know why this comic is more exciting than mine. Mine is taking forever to move on with the plot. Which is ironic since I put it on hiatus just before they do nothing but plot for a long while.

Here's a note to all comic makers; Don't put non-plot in the beginning and then constant continuous plot later. It doesn't grab people's attention that well.:smallsigh:

Hey, don't feel too bad. I like your comic plot flow. :smallsmile: Don't forget that OOTS started out like that.

[Silverraptor]

Hey, don't feel too bad. I like your comic plot flow. :smallsmile: Don't forget that OOTS started out like that.

Ya. I know. But now I'm thinking of organizing the comis into chapters. Maybe that will get excitement back. After, you know, I start updating again.

[CoffeeIncluded]

And another update. Plot moves along next comic, I promise.

#10: Not So Rough
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/NotSoRough.png

[Nathander]

Another good one.

For the most part, I think it was good that you ended a strip without a punchline for once, which will be a practice I'm expecting will see more of later. It was also nice to see Lloyd having a conversation with someone without it having to end humorously, as it demonstrates a lot of Lloyd's force of personality. A good comic.

However, I will admit that I find the panel with Janine and Radic unnecessary. While it does show why Matt couldn't find Janine, we really didn't need to be shown WHY he couldn't find Janine in this instance. Of course, this is simply my opinion.

I also found it a little disconcerting that someone as untrusting as Matt could apparently begin to trust Lloyd so quickly. This isn't bad, as due to being a paladin Lloyd should possess incredible strength of character and charisma. It just feels, to me, that Matt should have put up a little more resistance, a bit more pragmatic questioning of the motives of someone he's just met, paladin or not. But that's just me, and I don't know how you plan to evolve the characters.

Otherwise, great strip.

[Aaron]

Another good one.

I also found it a little disconcerting that someone as untrusting as Matt could apparently begin to trust Lloyd so quickly. This isn't bad, as due to being a paladin Lloyd should possess incredible strength of character and charisma. It just feels, to me, that Matt should have put up a little more resistance, a bit more pragmatic questioning of the motives of someone he's just met, paladin or not. But that's just me, and I don't know how you plan to evolve the characters.

Otherwise, great strip.

Well, Matt seems to walk away in the last panel dumbstruck from Lloyd's words.

Ha! "Lay on Hands!" I always find that funny. :smallbiggrin:

Great comic Coffee. :smallsmile:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Thank you, Nathander and Aaron.

And yes, Matt is dumbstruck. He's never really had someone have so much faith in his capacity to change. It's shocking to him.

Yeah, the cutaway to Radic and Janine fell kinda flat. Sorry about that.

[Nathander]

Yeah, the cutaway to Radic and Janine fell kinda flat. Sorry about that.

Nothing to be sorry about. The only real way to learn something about writing is to do it. You're going to find tricks that work and those that don't, and you'll be finding yourself using both a lot even when you know which aren't working. That's just the frustration of writing.

[Kyronea]

Finally got a chance to read your comics. Funny stuff so far, and I think you've got talent. Keep it up.

[Asta Kask]

Definitely keep it up - I'm slow to get into a comic, but I'm beginning to really care for the characters now. (That's not a comment on your abilities as much as it is on mine.)

Just wondering - if you were a D&D character, would you be wizard or druid? Or some kind of multiclass mystic theurge?

[CoffeeIncluded]

Definitely keep it up - I'm slow to get into a comic, but I'm beginning to really care for the characters now. (That's not a comment on your abilities as much as it is on mine.)

Just wondering - if you were a D&D character, would you be wizard or druid? Or some kind of multiclass mystic theurge?

Thank you.

See, I'd be multiclass without a doubt, but I'm Lawful Good... :smalltongue:

[Asta Kask]

Thank you.

See, I'd be multiclass without a doubt, but I'm Lawful Good... :smalltongue:

No druid then... too bad. You've gotta let out your wild side more. Disobey some authority.

...

Go kick your brother.

[CoffeeIncluded]

No druid then... too bad. You've gotta let out your wild side more. Disobey some authority.

...

Go kick your brother.

He fences. He has swords in his room.

[Asta Kask]

That's why you enter when he's asleep. Remember, if you can't use force, use cunning.

[CoffeeIncluded]

That's why you enter when he's asleep. Remember, if you can't use force, use cunning.

His room is trapped with several die-cast models and lego pieces. You know how high the DC on those are, especially at night? :smalltongue:

[Aaron]

His room is trapped with several die-cast models and lego pieces. You know how high the DC on those are, especially at night? :smalltongue:

Wouldn't it help if you had low-light vision night vision goggles? :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Wouldn't it help if you had low-light vision night vision goggles? :smalltongue:

Maybe. :smalltongue:

In an case, I'd like to stop making fun of my brother so much, you know?

[Aaron]

Maybe. :smalltongue:

In an case, I'd like to stop making fun of my brother so much, you know?

:smallconfused: What? But..but...making fun of little brothers is fun. :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

:smallconfused: What? But..but...making fun of little brothers is fun. :smalltongue:

Yeah, but you feel guilty after a while.

Comic on Thursday or Friday.

[Asta Kask]

Maybe. :smalltongue:

In an case, I'd like to stop making fun of my brother so much, you know?

Duly noted. One should never take a joke past the line where it stops being funny.

And, as I started the joke I now officially end it.

[CoffeeIncluded]

I know this one's short, but enjoy!

#11: Well, This Isn't Foreboding At All!
http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/WellThisIsntForebodingAtAll.png

...Thoughts?

[Mystic Muse]

yeah you're right it isn't. I mean they're just going to be encountering a giant spider:smallbiggrin:

[CoffeeIncluded]

yeah you're right it isn't. I mean they're just going to be encountering a giant spider for goshsakes (that's what it looks like at least)

They're about to be ambushed.
By a gigantic monster.
In the middle of the night.
When everyone's asleep.
And Radic and Janine are almost out of spells.

[Mystic Muse]

......and your point is?being difficult is so much fun.

[CoffeeIncluded]

......and your point is?being difficult is so much fun.

They're tired, they're low on magic, and the monster got them by surprise.

And it's the middle of the night. And none of them have Darkvision.

Did you like it though?

[Mystic Muse]

yes. YOU MUST UPDATE SO I CAN SEE WHAT HAPPENS! (yes I am about this anxious)

doesn't seem like anybody noticed my comic update.:smallfrown: or maybe just nobody posted. Or maybe my webcomic is just that bad.

[CoffeeIncluded]

yes. YOU MUST UPDATE SO I CAN SEE WHAT HAPPENS! (yes I am about this anxious)

doesn't seem like anybody noticed my comic update.:smallfrown: or maybe just nobody posted. Or maybe my webcomic is just that bad.

Heh, thanks! :smallbiggrin:

If I may ask, what do you like about the comic so far?

Here, I'll go take a look right now.

[Mystic Muse]

I like the art style, the characters who seem all too real, The "this guy can be redeemed" attitude and the fact that the main guy (I am SO bad at remembering names) has a background that we don't know about that's going to come up eventually.

if you have any criticisms of my comic feel free to PM them to me.

[CoffeeIncluded]

I like the art style, the characters who seem all too real, The "this guy can be redeemed" attitude and the fact that the main guy (I am SO bad at remembering names) has a background that we don't know about that's going to come up eventually.

if you have any criticisms of my comic feel free to PM them to me.

Lloyd. Lloyd Zephyr is the main character. Sandstorm is his holy paladin mount.
The other characters are:
Radic Quilla (The druid) with Remus, her riding dog animal companion
Janine Nova (Cleric of Astrid)
and Matthew (Matt) Silver (The rogue who's basically on a work-release program here.)

Thank you! :smallbiggrin:

And one criticism with your comic is the art style: It seems quite...Choppy, for lack of a better word. It's very angular and doesn't flow well.

[Mystic Muse]

thanks.:smallbiggrin:

EDIT: Ah okay. in my defense I'm still kind of a novice with inkscape and it doesn't behave very well sometimes.

I also wish it had scrollbars so I didn't have to continually zoom in and out.:smallannoyed:

[Zanaril]

Desecrate... her... temple.

*snort*

Looks like she's having a nice dream. :smallamused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Desecrate... her... temple.

*snort*

Looks like she's having a nice dream. :smallamused:

*Laughs*

Well, she IS a cleric. That line just popped into my head and it was WAY too good to pass up! :smallbiggrin:

Let's just be thankful that clerics of Astrid don't have to take a vow of chastity. Not even the Lawful ones.

On a similar note... (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/unhallow.htm) :smallamused:

[Aaron]

Desecrate... her... temple.

*snort*

Looks like she's having a nice dream. :smallamused:

*falls over laughing* :smallbiggrin:

Well, Paladins do have a good Charisma score. :smalltongue:

Please update again! :smallbiggrin: *waits in high level anticipation*

[CoffeeIncluded]

*falls over laughing* :smallbiggrin:

Well, Paladins do have a good Charisma score. :smalltongue:

Please update again! :smallbiggrin: *waits in high level anticipation*

I love that line. :smallbiggrin:

Then again, it's not as if her ah, "temple" hasn't been, shall we say, "ransacked" before. I think that in Cleric terms, this is the only way to describe it. (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/unhallow.htm) :smalltongue:

What else did you like about this comic?

I'll try to update again this weekend, but no guarantees. Latin test on Monday.

[Aaron]

I love that line. :smallbiggrin:

I'm glad I could implant this in your brainyou love it. :smallsmile:


Then again, it's not as if her ah, "temple" hasn't been, shall we say, "ransacked" before. I think that in Cleric terms, this is the only way to describe it. (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/unhallow.htm) :smalltongue:

...*cough* :smallannoyed:


What else did you like about this comic?

I'll try to update again this weekend, but no guarantees. Latin test on Monday.

I liked Lloyd talking in his sleep. :smallsmile:


:smallannoyed: Ugh, I hate having to take tests on Mondays. Hope you do well. :smallsmile:

[CoffeeIncluded]

...*cough* :smallannoyed:

What?


I liked Lloyd talking in his sleep. :smallsmile:

Why, thank you! :smallsmile:

[Nathander]

Cute comic.

I think it works as a nice set-up in preparing for what'll be their first (seen) battle together, and thus set up the dynamic for the party. I thought this one flowed very well, and it doesn't creates a sense of anxiety for what's coming next.

Nice one, CoffeeIncluded.

[Aaron]

What?

"Ransacked" her "Temple." :smalleek: Come on, do I really need to go in more details without talking about the Crack Pairings thread? :smalltongue:



Why, thank you! :smallsmile:

Glad to be a source of inspiration. :smallsmile:

[CoffeeIncluded]

"Ransacked" her "Temple." :smalleek: Come on, do I really need to go in more details without talking about the Crack Pairings thread? :smalltongue:

I'm saying that she's about as far from a "Vow of chastity" as a good-aligned cleric can get. :smalltongue:

And come on, she's perfect for the Crack Pairings Thread!

[Sstoopidtallkid]

For those worried, a Gargantuan Spider is over-CRd at 8. This one likely lacks the Web, too. And the party has a Druid, whose pet can probably take it. Not to mention she can turn into a Bear. The Rogue could sleep through this and them not have a problem.

[Asta Kask]

I'll try to update again this weekend, but no guarantees. Latin test on Monday.

I made it a point of honor to never study the day before a test, to clear my mind and relax. It worked well for me.

Liked the comic - hmm... desecrate my temple... would she even consider it desecration? Ah, well.

I assume clerics of Astrid has access to powerful Abjuration magic or they'd have problems adventuring at all.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Liked the comic - hmm... desecrate my temple... would she even consider it desecration?

No. No, she would not. :smalltongue:


I assume clerics of Astrid has access to powerful Abjuration magic or they'd have problems adventuring at all.

Actually her domains are Fire, Good, Healing, Sun, and Water. I actually worked this out. Guess which two Janine chose.

And no, not all of her clerics are like this. Janine's just a bit...Well, more than a bit...Yeah.

[Asta Kask]

No. No, she would not. :smalltongue:

I assume moist cavern complexes would be favored as temple grounds. So the pick-up line for her clerics would be "Would you like to come and worship at my temple?" (Or "can I worship at your temple?")

[CoffeeIncluded]

I assume moist cavern complexes would be favored as temple grounds. So the pick-up line for her clerics would be "Would you like to come and worship at my temple?" (Or "can I worship at your temple?")

Well...It's her's. We'll meet some other clerics of Astrid later on. And the largest temple on the continent dedicated to her.

Now imagine if her clerics had to take a vow of chastity...

[Asta Kask]

Well...It's her's. We'll meet some other clerics of Astrid later on. And the largest temple on the continent dedicated to her.

Now imagine if her clerics had to take a vow of chastity...

I think you missed my double entendre. Or perhaps you just didn't think it funny. :smallfrown:

Vow of chastity - hmm... I imagine dissension in the ranks.

[CoffeeIncluded]

I think you missed my double entendre. Or perhaps you just didn't think it funny. :smallfrown:

Vow of chastity - hmm... I imagine dissension in the ranks.

I didn't miss it.

Janine: Astrid is a benevolent goddess. She will accept anyone with a good heart into her ranks. And True Neutrals. There's no restriction based on...Habits and preferences; otherwise I'd start my own religion.

Radic: You know, when we're traveling together, about half the time we're forced to get two separate rooms at the inn. I make her foot the extra bill.

[Dark Faun]

Haha, this Astrid reminds me of the human goddess of love, Geshtianna, from Arcanum; in the immortal words of Virgil: "they have an orgy every year and call it a religious festival!"

And a forced vow of chastity would be the perfect way to scare the priests into doing what the higher-ups want...

Nice comic, though I can't believe they're stupid enough to sleep without a guard. I'd think Lloyd (because I don't trust the others' intelligence) would be smart enough to avoid such a mistake in a forest crawling with critters.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Haha, this Astrid reminds me of the human goddess of love, Geshtianna, from Arcanum; in the immortal words of Virgil: "they have an orgy every year and call it a religious festival!"

And a forced vow of chastity would be the perfect way to scare the priests into doing what the higher-ups want...

Nice comic, though I can't believe they're stupid enough to sleep without a guard. I'd think Lloyd (because I don't trust the others' intelligence) would be smart enough to avoid such a mistake in a forest crawling with critters.

Actually, quite a few of Astrid's clerics (Mostly the Lawful ones :smalltongue:) have little patience for Janine's antics. That's really funny though.

Well, actually, Remus was standing guard, but he dozed off about two minutes before the events of this comic...Perfect timing, Remus. :smallannoyed:

[Dark Faun]

"Mostly the Lawful ones?" :smallconfused:

Have you already forgotten the Tavern of Infinite One-Night Stands (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0492.html)? :smalltongue:

It's their fault for trusting a riding dog to do a guard dog's job. :smallamused:

If I were Lloyd, though, I wouldn't be exactly comfortable with sleeping anywhere near Janine. I'd expect to end up waking up only to find out she managed to squeeze herself into my sleeping bag. Naked.

[Asta Kask]

If I were Lloyd, though, I wouldn't be exactly comfortable with sleeping anywhere near Janine. I'd expect to end up waking up only to find out she managed to squeeze herself into my sleeping bag. Naked.

J: It's so cold outside. Can I sleep in your sleeping bag.

L: You know, it really would be warmer if you put on your clothes. Just a suggestion.

[CoffeeIncluded]

"Mostly the Lawful ones?" :smallconfused:

Have you already forgotten the Tavern of Infinite One-Night Stands (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0492.html)? :smalltongue:

It's their fault for trusting a riding dog to do a guard dog's job. :smallamused:

If I were Lloyd, though, I wouldn't be exactly comfortable with sleeping anywhere near Janine. I'd expect to end up waking up only to find out she managed to squeeze herself into my sleeping bag. Naked.

Yes, but they're supposed to make people feel guilty about sex. :smalltongue:

For Janine? A protection spell and Remove Disease, just in case. :smallwink:

Radic and Janine have had Remus stand guard before.

Now imagine when Lloyd wakes up and hears her talking in her sleep! :smallamused:

Note that your comic is pretty much what she's dreaming about.


J: It's so cold outside. Can I sleep in your sleeping bag.

L: You know, it really would be warmer if you put on your clothes. Just a suggestion.

Later on in the comic, they are going to a snowy wasteland...:smallamused:

[Dark Faun]

Yes, but they're supposed to make people feel guilty about sex. :smalltongue:

For Janine? A protection spell and Remove Disease, just in case. :smallwink:
But protection spells can fail. :smallwink:


Radic and Janine have had Remus stand guard before.
I hope they'll mention that Remus was supposed to stand guard in an upcoming comic, because such answers aren't supposed to be found outside the comic.


Now imagine when Lloyd wakes up and hears her talking in her sleep! :smallamused:
Poor Lloyd. If he stands guard while she sleeps, he'll hear her fantasies (that might or might not involve Radic and/or Matt in addition to him). If he stands guard with her... do I really need to say what will happen if they're the two only awake people during a long, cold night? :smallwink:


Later on in the comic, they are going to a snowy wasteland...:smallamused:
And she'll just happen to lose her own sleeping bag...

"There's a hand in my boxers."
"It's mine. I was cold."
"You better remove it if you don't want mine on your face."

[CoffeeIncluded]

But protection spells can fail. :smallwink:

Not when they're backed by divine magic. :smallwink:


I hope they'll mention that Remus was supposed to stand guard in an upcoming comic, because if not people will wonder the same thing as me and a comic is supposed to have all its answers inside itself, not given by the author in an external comment.

Of course I was planning that! What do you take me for? :smallannoyed:


Poor Lloyd. If he stands guard while she sleeps, he'll hear her fantasies (that might or might not involve Radic and/or Matt in addition to him). If he stands guard with her... do I really need to say what will happen if they're the two only awake people during a long, cold night? :smallwink:


And she'll just happen to lose her own sleeping bag...

"There's a hand in my boxers."
"It's mine. I was cold."
"You better remove it if you don't want mine on your face."

I smell crack pairing! :smallbiggrin:

The next morning:

Matt: What the hell?!

Radic: ...Ugh, Janine...

Janine: :biggrin:

Lloyd: ...I can't feel my legs...

[Asta Kask]

But protection spells can fail. :smallwink:

I wonder if there is an "abortion" spell available. I wouldn't dare discuss the morals of it, however. Too close to politics/religion.


And she'll just happen to lose her own sleeping bag...

At which point he'll kindly, but firmly, show her the Protection from Energy spell - which includes cold.

[CoffeeIncluded]

At which point he'll kindly, but firmly, show her the Protection from Energy spell - which includes cold.

More like he'd cast Protection From Chaos.

[Dark Faun]

Lloyd will want to invest in a Protection From Janine ring... I'm sure the main Astrid temple sells plenty of those...


I smell crack pairing! :smallbiggrin:

The next morning:

Matt: What the hell?!

Radic: ...Ugh, Janine...

Janine: :biggrin:

Lloyd: ...I can't feel my legs...
First, it's not a crack pairing since Janine does want Lloyd to violate her shrine with reckless abandon.

Second, how did you get from Janine putting her hand in Lloyd's boxers and getting threatened for it to Lloyd not feeling his legs anymore? :smallconfused:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Lloyd will want to invest in a Protection From Janine ring... I'm sure the main Astrid temple sells plenty of those...

They probably will after she goes there.


First, it's not a crack pairing since Janine does want Lloyd to violate her shrine with reckless abandon.

Second, how did you get from Janine putting her hand in Lloyd's boxers and getting threatened for it to Lloyd not feeling his legs anymore? :smallconfused:

1. What about when you include Radic and Matt? :smalltongue:

2. If things go Janine's way it would probably lead to a scenario where Lloyd would eventually stumble off to put ice on his groin or something due to "overuse", high Constitution be damned. :smallamused:

[ShinyDelusion]

Here's another fic for Murphy's Law. Has the classic, canon, one-sided Janine/Lloyd and a little bit of Radic/Lloyd (also one-sided, as far as we know), thrown in at the end just for fun.

Takes place at night before and partially during (mostly between panels) #11 of Murphy's Law (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/WellThisIsntForebodingAtAll.png) and includes an exerpt from my Belkar/Matt fic (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7594886&postcount=53) (Matt's nightmare).


“Nice try, Ears,” said the Halfling, “But you really should have chosen a disguise that looked like it actually belonged in max security.” With a disturbing suddenness, the Halfling grinned. “Since you obviously can’t break out of this cell anymore than I can… Do you know what they do to pretty, purple-haired little elf-boys like you in prison, Vaarsuvius?”

“It’s Matt,” Matt spat, but his face was paling.

Brandishing the lethally sharp spoon, the madman said, “Because I’m about to show you.”

“Nooooooo!” Matt cried upon abruptly waking, sitting straight up. Rubbing his eyes, he said gruffly but a little sheepishly, “Sorry, I know that’s one of the most annoying clichés in the book, but…” He looked around him. All three of the other adventurers were still asleep. “Okay… Nevermind.” Shuddering a little and trying to push the nightmare out of his thoughts, he slowly lied back down.

“Mmm… Glad you think so Lloyd… Now come here…”

“What?” Matt sat back up, looking around himself again. Everyone was still asleep. He glanced at Lloyd. Nope, definitely not doing anything to Janine. He glanced at Janine—

“Oh, Lloyd, I think I’m wounded…”

“Wounded?” Matt repeated, raising an eyebrow. He’d never heard that one before.

“You must Lay Hands on me…”

Oh. That made sense. He should’ve seen that one coming, really. As Janine’s words dissolved into little moans that made him uncomfortable on multiple levels, he lied back again, muttering, “Who seriously talks in their sleep anyway?” and tried to go back to sleep.

“Let me show you another use for Water Drops…”

Water Drops? Matt frowned. Weren’t those those little pills wizards could make out of water that released mouthfuls of water when you chewed on them?

“That’s right, put it there…”

“What the…?” Matt murmured.

“Now squeeze… Ah!”

“Is she…?”

“Mmm… You know, if you’re Good…” There was a little snorting sound that might have been Janine giggling, “The water tastes sweet… Oh, yes…”

“Oh, no…” Matt said with a grunt, rolling over and clutching his stomach. He did not want to hear this.

“I also know another use for—”

“Gah!” Matt cried, clapping his hands over his ears. How am I going to get back to sleep with this show playing in the background? Well, he couldn’t hear her with his hands over his ears, at least. Okay. I can do this… He started taking deep breaths in an attempt to make himself fall asleep faster while keeping his hands over his ears. Though this method wasn’t quite as efficient as he’d hoped for it to be, after about half an hour he felt himself drifting off. His arms relaxed has he sunk into a peaceful slumber, his hands gently falling away from his ears…

“Oh, Lloyd, I didn’t know you were a sorcerer…”

“Huh…?” Matt muttered sleepily.

“There really are a lot of uses for Prestidigitation… Mmm…”

Ba-dum, ting! Matt’s half-dreaming mind supplied for that one liner as he let out a moan of protest. He tried to sit up again, but realized he was already falling asleep, Janine’s words weaving themselves into his dreams…


---

“Nooooo!” Matt cried out again, awaking while sitting bolt upright for the second time that night. Taking deep breaths to calm himself down, he looked around to find that once again he’d failed to wake up the other three adventurers. It wouldn’t have been all that bad, he mused, wiping the cold sweat from his brow, if there hadn’t been so much… Lloyd. After shooting a glare at the now innocently silent Janine, he lied back and was asleep within minutes.


---

Remus raised his head to make his best you-should-feel-guilty sad eyes at the screaming human but to no avail; the little punk didn’t even glance at him. Apparently no one cares if they wake up just a dog in the middle of the night. As Matt went back to sleep, Remus put his own head back down with a self-righteous sniff, but raised it again after a few seconds.

Remus heard a sound. It sounded like an animal sound, but it wasn’t a familiar sound. A weird tp-tp-tp-tp-tping was prowling in a circle around them. The dog scanned the forest as best as he could, a low growl rumbling in the back of his throat. It was hard to tell now that Radic’s friend had started muttering in her sleep again, but after a few seconds it sounded like the tp-tping had stopped. This didn’t make Remus feel any better. Whining a little, he nudged Radic’s arm with his nose.


---

“Urg, Remus…” Radic groaned, batting her companion’s cold nose away from her, “What is it?”

Remus whined and poked her arm with his nose again.

“Okay, okay,” said Radic, sitting up and scratching him behind an ear, “What’s wrong, boy?”

“Mmrr… Lloyd,” Janine murmured, “You can… Desecrate my temple… Anyday…”

“Well that’s nothing new,” said Radic, playing with Remus’ ears, “Did she wake you up?”

Remus sniffed a little and let out another whimper.

“Northern ambush… Gnnh…” Lloyd was muttering, a sheen of sweat shining on his face.

“Oh,” said Radic, glancing over at him, “Poor guy… Wonder what’s going on in there?”


---

Remus settled down with a sigh while Radic sat down near the boy with a horse, stroking his hair occasionally and whispering little sympathetic phrases. It was just his luck that when he tries to warn her about possible danger, she decides she wants to get a head start on mating with something just because it looked pitiful when it slept. Oh well, he still hadn’t heard any more tp-tping, so maybe they were safe after all.


---

Lloyd seemed to be sleeping more peacefully now, and even though the way his face looked so smooth and elegant in the moonlight made Radic feel warm and giddy inside, at last she decided it was time she got back to sleeping too. As she drifted off next to a a sleeping Remus, oblivious to a faint tp-tp-tping sound approaching the camp from a distance, she decided that this was going to be the best campaign ever.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Here's another fic for Murphy's Law. Has the classic, canon, one-sided Janine/Lloyd and a little bit of Radic/Lloyd (also one-sided, as far as we know), thrown in at the end just for fun.

Takes place at night before and partially during (mostly between panels) #11 of Murphy's Law (http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/caffeineincluded/WellThisIsntForebodingAtAll.png) and includes an exerpt from my Belkar/Matt fic (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7594886&postcount=53) (Matt's nightmare).


“Nice try, Ears,” said the Halfling, “But you really should have chosen a disguise that looked like it actually belonged in max security.” With a disturbing suddenness, the Halfling grinned. “Since you obviously can’t break out of this cell anymore than I can… Do you know what they do to pretty, purple-haired little elf-boys like you in prison, Vaarsuvius?”

“It’s Matt,” Matt spat, but his face was paling.

Brandishing the lethally sharp spoon, the madman said, “Because I’m about to show you.”

“Nooooooo!” Matt cried upon abruptly waking, sitting straight up. Rubbing his eyes, he said gruffly but a little sheepishly, “Sorry, I know that’s one of the most annoying clichés in the book, but…” He looked around him. All three of the other adventurers were still asleep. “Okay… Nevermind.” Shuddering a little and trying to push the nightmare out of his thoughts, he slowly lied back down.

“Mmm… Glad you think so Lloyd… Now come here…”

“What?” Matt sat back up, looking around himself again. Everyone was still asleep. He glanced at Lloyd. Nope, definitely not doing anything to Janine. He glanced at Janine—

“Oh, Lloyd, I think I’m wounded…”

“Wounded?” Matt repeated, raising an eyebrow. He’d never heard that one before.

“You must Lay Hands on me…”

Oh. That made sense. He should’ve seen that one coming, really. As Janine’s words dissolved into little moans that made him uncomfortable on multiple levels, he lied back again, muttering, “Who seriously talks in their sleep anyway?” and tried to go back to sleep.

“Let me show you another use for Water Drops…”

Water Drops? Matt frowned. Weren’t those those little pills wizards could make out of water that released mouthfuls of water when you chewed on them?

“That’s right, put it there…”

“What the…?” Matt murmured.

“Now squeeze… Ah!”

“Is she…?”

“Mmm… You know, if you’re Good…” There was a little snorting sound that might have been Janine giggling, “The water tastes sweet… Oh, yes…”

“Oh, no…” Matt said with a grunt, rolling over and clutching his stomach. He did not want to hear this.

“I also know another use for—”

“Gah!” Matt cried, clapping his hands over his ears. How am I going to get back to sleep with this show playing in the background? Well, he couldn’t hear her with his hands over his ears, at least. Okay. I can do this… He started taking deep breaths in an attempt to make himself fall asleep faster while keeping his hands over his ears. Though this method wasn’t quite as efficient as he’d hoped for it to be, after about half an hour he felt himself drifting off. His arms relaxed has he sunk into a peaceful slumber, his hands gently falling away from his ears…

“Oh, Lloyd, I didn’t know you were a sorcerer…”

“Huh…?” Matt muttered sleepily.

“There really are a lot of uses for Prestidigitation… Mmm…”

Ba-dum, ting! Matt’s half-dreaming mind supplied for that one liner as he let out a moan of protest. He tried to sit up again, but realized he was already falling asleep, Janine’s words weaving themselves into his dreams…


---

“Nooooo!” Matt cried out again, awaking while sitting bolt upright for the second time that night. Taking deep breaths to calm himself down, he looked around to find that once again he’d failed to wake up the other three adventurers. It wouldn’t have been all that bad, he mused, wiping the cold sweat from his brow, if there hadn’t been so much… Lloyd. After shooting a glare at the now innocently silent Janine, he lied back and was asleep within minutes.


---

Remus raised his head to make his best you-should-feel-guilty sad eyes at the screaming human but to no avail; the little punk didn’t even glance at him. Apparently no one cares if they wake up just a dog in the middle of the night. As Matt went back to sleep, Remus put his own head back down with a self-righteous sniff, but raised it again after a few seconds.

Remus heard a sound. It sounded like an animal sound, but it wasn’t a familiar sound. A weird tp-tp-tp-tp-tping was prowling in a circle around them. The dog scanned the forest as best as he could, a low growl rumbling in the back of his throat. It was hard to tell now that Radic’s friend had started muttering in her sleep again, but after a few seconds it sounded like the tp-tping had stopped. This didn’t make Remus feel any better. Whining a little, he nudged Radic’s arm with his nose.


---

“Urg, Remus…” Radic groaned, batting her companion’s cold nose away from her, “What is it?”

Remus whined and poked her arm with his nose again.

“Okay, okay,” said Radic, sitting up and scratching him behind an ear, “What’s wrong, boy?”

“Mmrr… Lloyd,” Janine murmured, “You can… Desecrate my temple… Anyday…”

“Well that’s nothing new,” said Radic, playing with Remus’ ears, “Did she wake you up?”

Remus sniffed a little and let out another whimper.

“Northern ambush… Gnnh…” Lloyd was muttering, a sheen of sweat shining on his face.

“Oh,” said Radic, glancing over at him, “Poor guy… Wonder what’s going on in there?”


---

Remus settled down with a sigh while Radic sat down near the boy with a horse, stroking his hair occasionally and whispering little sympathetic phrases. It was just his luck that when he tries to warn her about possible danger, she decides she wants to get a head start on mating with something just because it looked pitiful when it slept. Oh well, he still hadn’t heard any more tp-tping, so maybe they were safe after all.


---

Lloyd seemed to be sleeping more peacefully now, and even though the way his face looked so smooth and elegant in the moonlight made Radic feel warm and giddy inside, at last she decided it was time she got back to sleeping too. As she drifted off next to a a sleeping Remus, oblivious to a faint tp-tp-tping sound approaching the camp from a distance, she decided that this was going to be the best campaign ever.


You are absolutely hysterical and I love this and your work.


Really, Janine's just going to get more and more aggressive about getting Lloyd in the sack with her as time goes on.

At one point Radic runs into Janine, who is holding a box while grinning manically.

In the box? Remember the V/Elan/Haley Crack pairing I did before? The one with Haley's fantasy and all the..."Implements?"

...

Janine: *Points to various objects in the box* This one's made of rubber, this one's leather, that one bounces, and this one over here jangles!

Radic: ................................


At that point Radic decides that it is a *very* good idea to get a room of her own.

Incidentally, many nights that they traveled alone together Radic was forced to get a room of her own. Something's telling me that Janine isn't exactly...Quiet.

[Dark Faun]

Janine: *Points to various objects in the box* This one's made of rubber, this one's leather, that one bounces, and this one over here jangles!
Radic: And this one *points to fist* will get into your face if you don't rein in your libido.

Is it in character? :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Radic: And this one *points to fist* will get into your face if you don't rein in your libido.

Is it in character? :smalltongue:

Yes. Considering Matt...:smalltongue:

Interesting Note: Radic's actually a virgin. Not for Janine's lack of trying.
(I'm not getting into the morals and ethics and stuff behind Janine's mindset. Each character views the world differently; and even some of the good guys have different ethical and moral standards from me. And that makes for a good story.)

See, if there were ever a crossover between Murphy's Law and OOTS, the only thing preventing Janine/Sabine is Janine's Chaotic Good alignment.

And there are ways around that. Mostly deception.

[Grim ranger]

Heh, I just got around reading this and I have to say: great work! :smallbiggrin:

That fic disturbed me, though. I can very well symphatice with Matt :smalltongue:

[Dark Faun]

See, if there were ever a crossover between Murphy's Law and OOTS, the only thing preventing Janine/Sabine is Janine's Chaotic Good alignment.

And there are ways around that. Mostly deception.
Which reminds me; if she ever meets the Linear Guild, they will have an evil opposite for her, who'll be called Ninja of course. :smallwink:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Which reminds me; if she ever meets the Linear Guild, they will have an evil opposite for her, who'll be called Ninja of course. :smallwink:

Who is chaste.

[Grim ranger]

You have to give Big Boss quest star visit in the comic. I know he is from completely different setting, but his appeareance would doulbtlessly have...interesting reactions on the party. Expecially on sexual side :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

You have to give Big Boss quest star visit in the comic. I know he is from completely different setting, but his appeareance would doulbtlessly have...interesting reactions on the party. Expecially on sexual side :smalltongue:

Thanks, but no thanks. This is a universe of my own creation here.

[Grim ranger]

Thanks, but no thanks. This is a universe of my own creation here.

Oh well, one can dream... :smalltongue:

[Silverraptor]

Oh well, one can dream... :smalltongue:

Yes they can.

And I have some influence on this comic. Though I can't change any of the core plot or anything. (That would be wrong) I can however suggest different things and see if she'll like it if the story went that instead of her original idea.

[Aaron]

Sorry for the late responses. I've been helping all day remove our old fireplace, so we can get a new one (finally).


I'm saying that she's about as far from a "Vow of chastity" as a good-aligned cleric can get. :smalltongue:

And come on, she's perfect for the Crack Pairings Thread!

...unfortunetly I have to agree with you on that. :smallwink:


Yes, but they're supposed to make people feel guilty about sex. :smalltongue:

For Janine? A protection spell and Remove Disease, just in case. :smallwink:

Radic and Janine have had Remus stand guard before.

Now imagine when Lloyd wakes up and hears her talking in her sleep! :smallamused:

Later on in the comic, they are going to a snowy wasteland...:smallamused:

:smalleek:...I think Janine has some problems. She needs to see a mental doctor, fast. :smalltongue:


Yes they can.

And I have some influence on this comic. Though I can't change any of the core plot or anything. (That would be wrong) I can however suggest different things and see if she'll like it if the story went that instead of her original idea.

Well, you are still considered the co-author of this comic. You help out. :smallsmile:

[Asta Kask]

So, how much of yourself is in Radic?

[CoffeeIncluded]

So, how much of yourself is in Radic?

The animal-lover, some of the intelligence, some of the color scheme.

Really, there's a tiny bit of me in every character, even if it's hypothetically something as mundane as favorite food. That little grain of likeness helps me to write the character better.

Why do you ask?

[Asta Kask]

Just curious. I'd probably ask the Giant something similar. I like to find out what makes people tick.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Just curious. I'd probably ask the Giant something similar. I like to find out what makes people tick.

Heh. There are a lot of things.

[Asta Kask]

Of course. I don't think I'm going to be able to write "CoffeeIncluded for Dummies" from our conversations here. But it's still interesting to know.

When it comes to friends, I'm a squirrel. I gather up all the little bits and pieces I can about them and store them in my treasure house. And I would consider you a friend.

Yes, writers put a little of themselves into their characters - I suspect there's really no other way to do it. You have to have same channel into the mind of the character, and this is a cheap and easy way. Then, as time goes by you set up little mental sub-routines for that character and you know he's really coming alive when he starts saying "But I wouldn't do that!" and screwing up your plots...

[CoffeeIncluded]

Of course. I don't think I'm going to be able to write "CoffeeIncluded for Dummies" from our conversations here. But it's still interesting to know.

When it comes to friends, I'm a squirrel. I gather up all the little bits and pieces I can about them and store them in my treasure house. And I would consider you a friend.

Thank you. :smallredface:

Squirrels can be really crazy sometimes.

Even seen a squirrel eat cigarette butts off the ground?

Ever had a 2-day-old baby squirrel fall out of a tree and land six inches away from you?


Yes, writers put a little of themselves into their characters - I suspect there's really no other way to do it. You have to have same channel into the mind of the character, and this is a cheap and easy way. Then, as time goes by you set up little mental sub-routines for that character and you know he's really coming alive when he starts saying "But I wouldn't do that!" and screwing up your plots...

Hoo boy, do I know that feeling.

[Asta Kask]

Thank you. :smallredface:

Squirrels can be really crazy sometimes.

Even seen a squirrel eat cigarette butts off the ground?

No, but it sounds... interesting. I've had rats and they will anything once. If it makes them sick, never again.


Ever had a 2-day-old baby squirrel fall out of a tree and land six inches away from you?

No, but I have a cat who would be delighted if that happened. "Oooh, a squeaky-toy. And it's not even christmas." :smallsmile:

I did take a care of a mallard duck when I was... 13? 14? Something like that. The poor fellow had broken its leg and it had healed wrong, and he couldn't find food and the other ducks were pecking it. So we took it home and housed it in a bathtub and a faux-nest made from blankets for two days and then the botanical gardens took care of him for us.

[CoffeeIncluded]

No, but it sounds... interesting. I've had rats and they will anything once. If it makes them sick, never again.



No, but I have a cat who would be delighted if that happened. "Oooh, a squeaky-toy. And it's not even christmas." :smallsmile:

I did take a care of a mallard duck when I was... 13? 14? Something like that. The poor fellow had broken its leg and it had healed wrong, and he couldn't find food and the other ducks were pecking it. So we took it home and housed it in a bathtub and a faux-nest made from blankets for two days and then the botanical gardens took care of him for us.

Aww. :smallsmile:

I knew what to do with the baby squirrel (It was still alive), because I've raised baby gerbils before. And they all survived. Which is quite difficult to do.

[Cizak]

I think I'll keep my eyes on this one :smallsmile:

[Asta Kask]

Aww. :smallsmile:

I knew what to do with the baby squirrel (It was still alive), because I've raised baby gerbils before. And they all survived. Which is quite difficult to do.

What happened to the mother? I've had gerbils as well - two pairs. One sand colored and one black and white pair (all of them males). We got the second pair when one in the old pair (Torticollix, because he had a twisted neck (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torticollis) for some reason) died. The other one, who was gaunt and mangy and looked like the kind of person who yells "get off my lawn!" didn't want any companionship and bit the white one rather severely. So we put him in an acquarium of his own, where he lived 'til old age (3 years) and got gaunter and mangier and grumpier by the month. He also got stone deaf, so when the dog was barking like mad at him, he wouldn't notice it if he had his back turned.

The other two lived a more normal gerbal life and passed on more or less simultaneously at the age of 2.

[silversaraph]

Thank you. :smallredface:

Squirrels can be reallyEver had a 2-day-old baby squirrel fall out of a tree and land six inches away from you?


Same thing happened with a clumsy adult squirrel. It even landed on my blind Beachan Poodle who sniffed at it lovingly and slipped back into a coma. We have a squirrel feeder on our windowsill which we fill with scraps, so I'm used to to looking at a squirrel half an inch from my face (they've gotten used to us).


Also, is Lloyd gay? Or asexual? I don't recall "resisting sexual temptation" being a paladin trait, and that is more than just a little temptation.

[CoffeeIncluded]

What happened to the mother? I've had gerbils as well - two pairs. One sand colored and one black and white pair (all of them males). We got the second pair when one in the old pair (Torticollix, because he had a twisted neck (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torticollis) for some reason) died. The other one, who was gaunt and mangy and looked like the kind of person who yells "get off my lawn!" didn't want any companionship and bit the white one rather severely. So we put him in an acquarium of his own, where he lived 'til old age (3 years) and got gaunter and mangier and crotchier by the month. He also got stone deaf, so when the dog was barking like mad at him, he wouldn't notice it if he had his back turned.

The other two lived a more normal gerbal life and passed on more or less simultaneously at the age of 2.

The mother was fine too.

So we had 10 gerbils, a hamster, and two frogs.

Now we only have a dog...

I take care/have taken care of ALL of them.

Actually, we got babies because the pet store mixed up the genders and my parents wouldn't believe me.

You're a scientist?


Also, is Lloyd gay? Or asexual? I don't recall "resisting sexual temptation" being a paladin trait, and that is more than just a little temptation.

If I told you the reason, it would be spoilers. Suffice it to say that it has to do with his past.

Or maybe he just, you know, doesn't like Janine that way. Or doesn't appreciate her..."Tactics". Or maybe he needs time to warm up to her. Who knows?

All will be revealed in time.

[Asta Kask]

You're a scientist?

Not at the moment, but I have worked as a scientist. Neuropsychiatry.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Not at the moment, but I have worked as a scientist. Neuropsychiatry.

That's really cool.

Veterinary medicine for me, in case you haven't yet guessed. :smalltongue:

[Asta Kask]

That's really cool.

Veterinary medicine for me, in case you haven't yet guessed. :smalltongue:

You are going to do research. Excellent, I think you will do very well. From what I've seen you have the mind for it. Just remember that grad students are the best population to study crisis reactions in...

Here's an interesting podcast episode (http://www.astronomycast.com/astronomy/ep-90-the-scientific-method/) (you may have noticed that I'm a great fan of podcasts) about the scientific method by Fraser Cain and one of my major nerd-crushes, Dr Pamela Gay. It's excellent, and you may want to listen to more episodes to get over your physics-phobia... :smalltongue:

[CoffeeIncluded]

You are going to do research. Excellent, I think you will do very well. From what I've seen you have the mind for it. Just remember that grad students are the best population to study crisis reactions in...

Here's an interesting podcast episode (http://www.astronomycast.com/astronomy/ep-90-the-scientific-method/) (you may have noticed that I'm a great fan of podcasts) about the scientific method by Fraser Cain and one of my major nerd-crushes, Dr Pamela Gay. It's excellent, and you may want to listen to more episodes to get over your physics-phobia... :smalltongue:

I mean I want to be a doctor veterinarian. Research, yes, but I really like applying the knowledge hands-on. Plus I've got nimble fingers and I enjoy fixing things.

[Asta Kask]

I mean I want to be a doctor veterinarian. Research, yes, but I really like applying the knowledge hands-on. Plus I've got nimble fingers and I enjoy fixing things.

That's actually an advantage, because it means you're not as dependent on grant money to survive. Even if the grant agencies turn sour you still have a 50% (or something) job, and more importantly a 50% paycheck to survive on. Dad was a doctor and a researcher at the same time, so there's no contradiction here.

[CoffeeIncluded]

That's actually an advantage, because it means you're not as dependent on grant money to survive. Even if the grant agencies turn sour you still have a 50% (or something) job, and more importantly a 50% paycheck to survive on. Dad was a doctor and a researcher at the same time, so there's no contradiction here.

I guess. But I just want to do what I enjoy.

Heh, a notable well-educated professional position that I would not enjoy being would be a lawyer.

[Asta Kask]

I guess. But I just want to do what I enjoy.

Would this (http://www.vet.ohio-state.edu/clinicalsciences.htm) be something for you (I just pulled it off of the web, so I know nothing about the university). Sounds like you should do clinical research, which I imagine is the lion's share of veterinary research (since so many other branches do basic research on animals).

I'm not saying you should become a scientist, obviously. But I do think you would be a good scientist if you found a project you were interested in. So I'll stop pushing now. Just promise me to think about it, and I'll try to answer any questions you have.

[Roland St. Jude]

Should this discussion maybe take place in its own thread or Random Banter? It seems woefully off topic here.

[CoffeeIncluded]

Should this discussion maybe take place in its own thread or Random Banter? It seems woefully off topic here.

Okay Roland. Sorry about that.

[Asta Kask]

Hmm... I thought Radic was a vegetarian, but from #8 it doesn't seem like she is. She's against Matt killing the weasel because "there isn't enough meat to feed all of us." (i.e., it would be pointless killing of wildlife.)

Radic's a virgin, although not for lack of Janine trying... trying to set her up with a nice man (or a man, at least), or trying to take a more hands-on approach?

[CoffeeIncluded]

Hmm... I thought Radic was a vegetarian, but from #8 it doesn't seem like she is. She's against Matt killing the weasel because "there isn't enough meat to feed all of us." (i.e., it would be pointless killing of wildlife.)

Yes. That's what it is.

She won't eat meat if it's pointless killing, or the animal was slaughtered for food in a barbaric fashion.


Radic's a virgin, although not for lack of Janine trying... trying to set her up with a nice man (or a man, at least), or trying to take a more hands-on approach?

Remember how I gave full permission for the Crack Pairings Thread to go wild with my comic? :smallwink:

[Asta Kask]

We want more updates!

http://i388.photobucket.com/albums/oo323/bubbanomics/mystery/call_waambulance.jpg

[CoffeeIncluded]

We want more updates!

http://i388.photobucket.com/albums/oo323/bubbanomics/mystery/call_waambulance.jpg

Tell that to my Latin, Math, and Physics teachers.

[Sstoopidtallkid]

Tell that to my Latin, Math, and Physics teachers.Post their phone numbers. Or just names, we can find the address from that. They'll learn...they'll learn.

[Asta Kask]

I'll give them an offer they can't refuse. I'll have my cat drop a dead mouse's head in their beds.

[CoffeeIncluded]

I'll give them an offer they can't refuse. I'll have my cat drop a dead mouse's head in their beds.


Post their phone numbers. Or just names, we can find the address from that. They'll learn...they'll learn.

This might come as a surprise to you, but I'm quite reluctant to go to jail.

[Asta Kask]

This might come as a surprise to you, but I'm quite reluctant to go to jail.

Well, as long as you have Internet access... :smallsmile:

[CoffeeIncluded]

Well, as long as you have Internet access... :smallsmile:

I don't think you get that in prison.

And how long do you seriously think I'd last in prison. I'm not exactly a paragon of physical fortitude. :smalltongue:

[Mystic Muse]

I don't think you get that in prison.

And how long do you seriously think I'd last in prison. I'm not exactly a paragon of physical fortitude. :smalltongue:

approximately one week.

tehn you'll go insane from the lack of crack pairings.:smallbiggrin: