Today's "We're setting out to do adventuring stuff" theme provided by Chrono Trigger.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiT8JWc4GrU

File: 1347497089536.png-(99 KB, 923x773, PrimerSetting.png)

To recap the actual macro-level plot, both the Resistance and Network are snooping around the region looking for something: the Atheneum. Clarke is in possession of vital knowledge regarding this McGuffin: both what it is, and WHERE it is.

The Atheneum is a long-buried lab containing a stock of pristine tech and data, along with several thousand blank-slate embryonic AIs. An unimaginable treasure-trove to anyone that can get their manipulators on it. And BAD FUCKING NEWS if Network were to get there first.

With this in mind, Clarke and Co must travel to Cancun and alert the leader of the Free Machines, "Joshua," there to exactly what the fuck's going on, and somehow keep the Atheneum out of Network's tentacles.

File: 1347497377190.jpg-(35 KB, 300x329, Hound.jpg)

>>20702416
Hound, you say?

File: 1347497388820.png-(60 KB, 987x549, Char ClarkeNew.png)

Recently, Clarke's been focusing on gathering allies, as well as tuning up his own shell. He now possesses Network-origin Synth-Muscle, a nano-fabricated material that augments his already impressive strength.

Clarke started out as a humble janitor with an above-average ability to bend things, but he's now becoming some sort of implacable Fist-of-the-north-star-tier destroyer and liberator, a genius bruiser of a leader determined to do whatever he can to "fix" the sorry state the world is in.

File: 1347497570661.png-(61 KB, 842x624, Char Cindy.png)

He is assisted in this by Cindy, a former PDA bot he rescued from the scrap-heap. While skilled in social interaction, she's somewhat unstable and possibly a little crazy. Her owner apparently used her as a BFF, and the experience left the robot...a bit odd.

Aside from her disarming manner, Cindy is becoming increasingly adept in combat, her style being best described as "Shotgun Ninja."

File: 1347497712723.png-(44 KB, 768x549, Char Ladybird.png)

Originally called "Ladybird," the former search-and-rescue Locust mech prefers the name Hound. Originally used to search for lost hikers and children, Hound's time as part of Network has left him...a little damaged. Hound has become far more violent and even less charming than he used to be. But whatever's left in there of Ladybird is determined to repay Clarke for his assistance and get revenge on Network.

File: 1347497903243.png-(33 KB, 768x549, Char Q1N.png)

Q1N, or Quinn, was likewise freed of Network control. What used to be a nurse/surgical assistant, and later a competent doctor, was instead used as a simple killing machine, its knowledge of human anatomy twisted to brutal ends.

Q1N appears to have come out with more of its personality intact, but this also resulted in severe trauma as it attempts to reconcile what it once was with what it was forced to become. Its new, Network-origin shell, doesn't help matters much.

I'd like to point everyone who will read this thread to this post:
>>20702309
So you may bask in it's awesomeness.

File: 1347497999659.png-(43 KB, 768x549, Char Hoss.png)

Hoss, who came to clarke and cindy's aid earlier, as also signed on with the group. Mooching around Tulum as a bouncer and unofficial Sherrif of the Tech Quarter, the Machine is intent on making sure that Clarke's information makes it to Cancun, and to Joshua.

>>20702631
That is magnificent.

File: 1347498307685.jpg-(55 KB, 640x480, tulumruin.jpg)

>>20702631
>>Wow. that's just...wow. I love it so much.

>>I did some regiggering to the character sheets, getting them all sorted to the same standard and tweaking this-and-that, in an effort to simplify the rules. Now that Clarke has such a large cast of allies, We're going to have to go Bioware on this. When engaged in active combat/adventuring, Clarke can only bring with him TWO allies of his choice; the rest can still be used, but their actions will take place offscreen or be otherwise summarized.

File: 1347498964454.png-(75 KB, 792x789, Inventoryupdate.png)

Using the treasure-trove of Monster, Coke, and Bourbon (brownest of the brown liquors) from the Quick-trip gas station you raided, Clarke is able to outfit all his allies with weapons, armor, and other gear.

Cindy is currently having a little girl-time with Quinn, out shopping for something to make Quinn's appearance less panic-inducing. Clarke and Hyacinth are both working on Garry's damaged shell, and checking out the remaining, very old SAP drive they found. Hyacinth says that some of the drives non-essential hardware is damaged;she'll have to crack it open and replace some of the connectors in order to install it in a new shell. But just finding the drive is a victory in itself, and she'll find a shell for it as soon as she can.

File: 1347499380343.jpg-(243 KB, 849x1200, 51e0482688a93e186ecec12c1(...).jpg)

I really hope the mystery drive is a friendly. We got really lucky the last two times we dove a networked box.

>>20702850
"Is there a way where we can power the SAP somewhat, hook it up to a device to allow it to vocalize itself?

We dont know if... its main processes are damaged or, insane."

File: 1347499406798.jpg-(157 KB, 501x962, Hyacinth.jpg)

As we begin, Clarke is putting the finishing touches on his new weapon, a triple-barrel assault rifle that can pump out ABSURD ammounts of bullets in the general direction of a target. it eats through ammo like a motherfucker, though.

Working on her own project, Hyacinth speaks without looking up.

"It has been very interesting here ever since you arrived, Clarke. While I acknowledge the necessity of your leaving, it is a situation I would change if i could. Your assistance increased my efficiency."

Hyacinth continues to work at the old-fashioned, white-plastic sewing machine, tiny, precise manipulators moving with speed impossible for a human to manage.

Clarke, not particularly good with "feelings" himself, suspects that, for all her skill and intelligence, Hyacinth is having a hard time expressing herself.

>>20702940
>>20702938
>>The drive was pulled out of a normal wreck. It's almost certainly not networked.

"No. the components that would allow the drive to interact with other hardware have corroded. I can replace them, but it would be a complex process, requiring the utmost care, and several days of preparation. For now, it is inactive, and likely has been for three decades. The quantum storage box itself is undamaged.

File: 1347499658007.jpg-(142 KB, 775x600, 7e831a138a1101a72ed82d75f(...).jpg)

>>20702944
"If the situation presents it's self as a possibility, once my mission in Cancun is over, I would like to return here. I believe my actions since arrival has made the locals more receptive torwards our kind. Particularly the deactivation of the JOTUN."

>>20702944
You've done better than i could ever process. We all have things we excel at, for me, it seems its putting things together, or taking them apart.

You, have managed much more."

>>20702944
"It has been good to work with you as well Hyacinth. I think we understood each other and were the situation not dire I would stay. I'm going to wander into metaphors because I don't know how else to say this. To me you're like rainstorms, fractals, very big trees and proper engineering standards. Those are things I truly respect and enjoy being with."

>>20702944
Hyacinth at last lifts up what it was she was working on. It's...

a scarf. Made of red synthetic fibers taken from an EMT bag, and embroidered with silver threads, forming the coiling, infitintely-regressing shapes of the Mandelbrot Set. Hyacinth, without ceremony, proffers it to you.

"It serves no practical function, but I think the color suits you."

>>20703017
We will treasure the fuck out of this scarf.

>>20703037
Woe befall anybody who tries to take it from us!

File: 1347500487556.jpg-(54 KB, 571x423, Q1N.jpg)

>>20703006
>>20703001
>>20703017
Hyacinth's head tilts to the left, then to the right, as clarke speaks. Then she looks away.

"I..."

The door to the shack slams open, a cheery voice bubbling with digitized enthusiasm ringing out.

"We're BAAAAACK! You will not BELIEVE what we found for Quinn!"

Cindy, Josephine, and Quinn enter, Dwight following behind, looking slightly ill as he apparently had to deal with two hours of being the tag-along. But, he was the only person who knew where to find the best weaponry. Josephine carefully puts the parcels down on a table and begins unpacking them, not particular caring that they include guns, ammo and knives.

>>20703082
Put on the scarf, wrap it around. Look awesome.

"Thank you Hyacinth, I'll treasure it.

Cindy, I'm sure I won't believe what you found so you may as well just tell me.

Dwight, you look ill. Quinn is a medical professional, perhaps she should take a look at you."

File: 1347500960122.jpg-(23 KB, 450x600, quinnoutfit.jpg)

>>20703107
A flat-grey blur rushes across the room and up on to the table, casually shoving Josephine away as it starts to paw through the parcels. The Replica staggers back a few steps, still wearing a contented smile. "I'm sorry for getting in your way, sir."

Ignoring her, Hound lifts up a collection of various knives. "Adequate. Effective vs soft targets, will require precision vs machine foes. Balance...good. Sharpness...needs work." Hound flips one up into the air, letting it fall to balance perfectly on a manipulator.

Cindy continues, showing off her latest triumph. "We found the CUTEST thing for Quinn. There was a genuine old-fashioned lady's jacket in the market, see? With the lapels and everything. Quinn kept on saying that scrubs were what she was used to, but look at this! It's all old-fashioned nurse-style, and with the belt it just POPS you know? Look at those hips! I'm SOOO jealous! At least network gave her a killer figure."

>>20703184
"Hound, I can probably sharpen them with the tools available. It isn't that difficult.

Cindy, I have no idea what you're talking about but I'm happy for you."

>>20703184
"Indeed. It seems to suit her quite nicely."

>>20703184
"Which worries me.
The human resistance will likely act immediately hostile to a network shell. A... Cosmetic refit may be required, it may damage productivity, but would assist in our own safety."

Then feel horrified since we mentioned what would equate to MAKEOVER in a room full of Seraphims

>>20703112
Q1N is indeed outfitted with something that resembles a nurse's outfit, a woman's white coat, a properly labeled medical bag slung at her side. She looks at Cindy, then down at the Hips her shell has, then at Clarke. You can feel a palpable disdain pouring off of her.

"I mean, the 1st-gens always had a better build, all elegant and womanly. Our line just kept getting smaller and skinnier, until you wind up with Hyacinth over-oh, sorry, I meant-"

Dwight interjects, desperately

"Actually, I think I'm feeling fine. Just need some food, is all. Maybe some water. If you guys are set I'll just-uh...I should go."
gesturing with a thumb over his shoulder, Dwight backpeddles out of the shack

>>20703267
>Dwight NOPING the fuck outta here

Smart man.

We should access our engineer database and spout dry, useless facts about differences between Seraphim models.

>>20703267
Clarke gets all the Seraphim bitches.

"Cindy, there is nothing wrong with having differences. Everyone has different purposes and specialties." Then start giving technical specifications for the different shells.

We're trying at least.

>>20703304
>>20703316
tack on someting like
"...In summary, my hypothesis is the higher generation Seraphim shells were only smaller to show off a higher degree of miniaturization, entirely for the sake of the manufacturer's own self-satisfaction."

>>20703316
>>20703264
Hyacinth speaks up

"I did the best i could to refit your shell, Quinn. Most of the original hardware remains. The extra optics were replaced with broad-spectrum sensors on the faceplate; I assumed you would be more familiar with the typical binocular configuration. The clothing should go a long ways to indicate your allegiance, and the Resistance would attack us on sight either way."

Cindy pouts. "I'm not being MEAN, Clarke. I'm just lamenting that all I've got is-"

Quinn, silent up until this point, speaks. "The design of this shell was selected to lower the center of gravity and improve balance, as well as concentrating extra synth-muscle in the legs." Each word is clipped and precise. Her head turns to regard Cindy. "Your obsession with feminine body shapes is nonsensical. Neither of us needs to pass infants through the pelvic region or attract sexual partners. Cease discussing it."

lines delivered, Quinn regards Hyacinth and says, in slightly less biting tones. "your modifications are appreciated. The manipulators in particular are most effective."

>>20703435
"If you excuse me I am going to go bend something, outside."

Pull a Dwight and avoid the oncoming catfight.

>>20703435
>Cindy status: TOLD

Okay, lets check out the loot before this turns into a robo catfight.

File: 1347502547602.jpg-(204 KB, 900x740, fixing_windows_by_cuvey-d(...).jpg)

Hound, already sharpening his new knives, blithely ignores the exchange.

"So, we're leaving soon, right? I've got some equations to balance. Ohh...staghorn grip."

Cindy, obviously hurt, replies. "Yeah, Ladyb-...Hound. I'm sure Hoss is still waiting for us. But he struck me as a pretty patient dude."

to clarke: "Anything else you want to do in Tulum?"

>>20703472
Assuming that we've done the full gamut of upgrades for Cindy, Quinn and Hound and gotten them fully equipped and geared up.

"I can't think of anything more. Hyacinth, it was good to meet you. I hope we can see each other again. Thank you very much for the scarf."

We need to make sure we've topped off our ammo supply for the hand cannon. That thing was brutal, and the dakkalith eats too much ammo to just use it in every fight.

>>20703472
There doesn't seem to be any pressing matters that require our attention.

Say goodbye to Hyacinth and Dwight and proceed to the boat. I'm sure Hoss would be thrilled to see he's got two new deputies.

>>20703472
"We still need to meet with the King.
He should know that the beast is truely dead, and, likely gain a sizable bounty from it.

He should let the resistance back in as well, the humans need all the help they can get, and, prejudice aside, they're the people fighting against the Network. Same as us."

>>20703519
When we get to the boat we should be all "XO is on deck. Hoss is relieved of temporary command." as a kind of joke.

>>20703533
Hm, yes. If they're still not obsessed over the whole "the King can't be seen talking with robots" thing, we should encourage him to keep a tighter leash on the Resistance in Network doesn't give them free reign to push others around.

File: 1347503303739.jpg-(86 KB, 592x500, Tired Mexican woman.jpg)

>>20703511
Nodding, Hyacinth returns to her work.

The gathered loot appears to be a nice collection of ammunition and small arms, as well as CB radios and a rare 2-charge battery pack. Loading up the lot of it is a simple procedure with so many backs to share the load. Cindy is uncharacteristically quiet, and your well-armed group attracts a lot of funny looks as you leave the tech quarter, whispers spreading throughout the "normals" as they stop to stare for a bit.

Your progress is interrupted again as you try to leave, but this time, instead of a Resistance Goon puffed up with his own authority, it's a matronly woman with a careworn face, holding a wicker basket. She speaks, her spanish inflected with old words, very familiar to Clarke. the modern dialect has drifted slightly.

"You...you are the ones who slew the monster, yes?"

>>20703623
"We are. And for the safety of everyone, we leave soon to fight even more monsters up north."

>>20703623
"Yes, but there are many more out there that must be destroyed along with it."

>>20703623
"Yes. Well technically it was just me and Cindy, the others were not there at the time.

Is there anything I can do for you?"

>>20703623
no meet with the king? right out the front gate?

>>20703709
The king is a very busy guy. That's what underlings are for.

>>20703650
>>20703675
Stepping forward tentatively, she reaches into the basket.

"I...my sister and her husband were taken by the monster, years ago. I have lived in this city ever since, afraid to stray too far from the walls. There are others who have lost, and I...I would offer you food, but..."

From the basket, she reveals a sparkling amulet, made of jade and set in burnished copper.

"Her husband was a jeweler. Please, take this as a sign of my gratitude. All the people here, we know of what the Gringos did to your companion, and that you helped us when they would not. You have been polite guests of ours."

She holds out the object, strung on a braided leather band.

>>20703709
>>20703719
>>Indeed
As you stand there, a band of children passes by the tableau, stepping through awakwardly as they continue some game or other. As they pass, clarke sees a scrap of paper flutter to the ground. Cindy, seeing it as well, picks it up quickly. The crowd's eyes are all on Clarke.

Graciously accept it, and thank her for her gift.

Clarke's getting all the nice bling today.

>>20703736
The resistance acted in anger, in drunken revelry at times maybe. Desperate recruiting likely, mixed with fathers and mothers taken by machines. I dont doubt many orphans were among them. We robots arnt immune from such hateful acts either, but, we're only human...

It's sad. Please, keep it, it will do you more use than I, feed you longer, feed your friends. Use it for yourself, and continue to be machines gracious hosts."

>>20703736
"Thank you very much Miss. I will wear this with pride.

If any others like me come here please treat them with kindness."

Put it on.

>>20703757
See what the scrap of paper has on it. Greet the kids politely.

rolled 27 = 27

>>20703736
Thank you It is beatufull

>>20703767
It would be pretty rude not to accept her gift. Just humbly accept it. The engineer in us will never know when a jewel might come in handy.

>>20703736
put it on Cindy

>>20703797
>>20703782
You graciously accept the object, and the crowd parts to let you pass. As you near the gate, Cindy nudges you and hands over a soiled scrap of paper, written in well-formed Spanish of remarkable penmanship:

>>to: The Machine known as "Clarke"
The R's commander is heading back north. V/ many new warriors in tow. V/ angry with you. Steaming. for that alone, you have my gratitude. Good Luck, One wasteland wanderer to another. Tell the Cogson he will be welcome here.

-King Horatio

>>20703875
Hoooly shit.

>>20703875
We managed to piss of V/, whoever that is, probably Network.

Eat the note or otherwise destroy it after memorizing what's on it. Just in case.

>>20703841
I'd rather we keep it concealed when we can. Showing off bling like that is asking to get robbed.

>>20703903
V/ as in very

>>20703915
As armed as our group is, I don't think getting mugged will be all that probable.

Exiting to a hubub of cheers, Clarke puts Tulum to his back in the classic style of wasteland wanderers everywhere. Exiting the city seems to relieve Quinn, who's shell relaxes so profoundly you were unaware it was so tightly wound to start with.

Cindy proudly wears the jade amulet, as the strange little convoy heads back up the coast.

Reaching the boat proves quite simple. It remains moored where it was before, Hoss squatting on the roof of the wheelhouse, rifle at the ready. A human corpse with a hole in the head indicates that not all of Garry's crew got the message that the boat was no longer theirs.

Hoss gets down to meet you as you arrive, looking over Quinn and Hound.

"These are the salvaged machines? Free of Network's influence? The boat is in good condition, ready to cast off."

>>20704105
Take a good hard look at the muthafuckin' boat.

Then get on it.

>>20704105
Introduce them. Mention that Hound was also a law enforcement bot originally. Hopefully, knowing they have the police fraternity in common will generate some early sense of unity.

>>20704156
>>20704155
As the gear is loaded on to the boat, Clarke gives it a good once-over. The Hold is crowded, but un-dank, with enough room for several people to lurk. The front end contains several tarp tents and sleeping gear. Hoss shows Clarke a particularly nice find: a mounted speargun on the bow, operated by compressed air, as well as another stock of battered small arms and ammunition.

Hoss begins chatting at Hound, his usual professionalism dropping and even more of a drawl entering his voice.

"Attached to a rapid-response unit, the three-oh-fours. Eighteen official collars, twelve confirmed kills. Inducted as an official Ranger under the 'extingent circumstances' clause in the reglations. Badge number..."

Hound, initally warry, replies with his own service record, a little curiosity and animation returning to him. Cindy, still sulking, sits at the helmsman's chair and plays with her wristbands.

Quinn calls up from the front:

"Their medial supplies are in a terrible state of organization and upkeep. We are fortunate that they will not be needed."

>>20704105

Ask Quinn how she's feeling.

>>20704260
It's also fortunate that they were not very nice people to begin with.

>>20704260
Check on Quinn, ask how she's doing.

After that check in on Cindy, we may be bad at this type of thing but we can notice it when it's this obvious.

>>20704155
Clarke needs to fuck a mer-bot.

>>20704269
Quinn, carefully sorting the supplies by size, lifts a canister to examine it.

"this is valuable. concentrated synthetic hemolymph. Artificial blood, just add water. Expired several decades ago, but that can be ignored. I am...feeling fine, Clarke. I did not enjoy the crowd. Too many noises, too many humans. Coughing and spitting. They are unpleasant."

She stows the artificial blood canister in her med-bag.

"I feel better now. But your companion's behavior is still aberrant."

>>20704359
"That is simply how she copes with her current situation. You are not the only robot who had lost something when the world ended."

>>20704359
"You get used to it. She is odd but is still incredibly reliable, good with people, helpful and kind.

Though currently she is sulking, I ought to check in on her make sure she's doing okay."

>>20704359
"Quinn you have to compute that Cind3 is a unique unit with different settings for interaction. She may seem incorrigible, but she is trying as hard as she can to interface with you in a positive way."

>>20704359
"She acts in an intentionally animated manner. Her purpose pre-fall was to provide humans companionship. Please, do not be too annoyed with her. Though she is abnormally human-like in mannerism for a synthetic, she is a good person and means well. I enjoy her company, personally. Still, even if your initial opinion of her is negative, it is good to see you 'giving a fuck,' Quinn."

>>20704359
"It's to be expected, unfortunately. She possesses several indexing errors. I'd fix it, but, well, I hypothesize her misplaced memories relate to her late owner. Notes I found about Cindy stated she was found wandering around ownerless and acting 'loopy' before being kidnapped to be sold in Cancun. I theorize she may have very possibly have witnessed her teenage owner's violent demise.

So, if I fixed her indexing errors, she may well become inconsolable, and unable to help."

>>20704359
"Aberrant behavior is to be expected, considering the circumstances. You shouldn't be so hard on her. We all have our quirks, and they are not corrected by strong language. Bedside manner, you know."

>>20704385
Quinn glares at Clarke
"I have been operational for 92 years. I have been a medical professional during that entire time. In ICUs and trauma wards of one sort or another. My patient death count is correspondingly high."

Quinn stands and straightens her medical bag.

"Do not talk to me about the losses of others."

>>Make a Presence+Empathy test.

rolled 2, 5, 6, 5 = 18

uhh... oops?

rolled 3, 1, 1, 9 = 14

>>20704465
Quinn, does it look like I have any idea what I'm talking about? I'm not good with this whole dealing with people and emotions and seeing things from other's point of view. I fix things. All I know is that Cindy's been hurt and it's not the sort of damage that I can fix.

File: 1347509259850.jpg-(871 KB, 1968x2056, persona3-aegis.jpg)

rolled 1, 1, 7, 5 = 14

Rollan

rolled 4, 10, 4, 8 = 26

>>20704465
Rollan (4d10 right?)

rolled 9, 6, 4, 7 = 26

>>20704465
roll-dat

>>20704489
>>20704493
>>20704499
>>20704503
>>20704509
>>Not great, but acceptable
"I will await further evidence of her positive traits. Hopefully now that we are away from human settlements, she will be less distracted by shoes."

Checking on Cindy finds her clearing the grime from the boat's instrumentation.

"Oh, hey Clarke. just tidying up a bit. This boat's nice. Grunge aesthetic. Needs a name, though."

rolled 6, 8, 5, 3 = 22

>>20704568
How bout the "Does Not Compute" for a name?

>>20704568
"We shall call it the North Star"

>>20704582
>>20704595
>>Awaiting Consensus.
Continuing to clean, Cindy asks, casually.

"How's miss Ice Queen doing? Holding up okay? I didn't hurt her too much, did I?"

>>20704568
The "Sir, It's One Of Ours."

>>20704606
"She's doing okay. She doesn't seem to share in your fascination of shoes. She's a strong one, mentally speaking, it probably comes from working in the medical field for that long."

>>20704606
"She is cautious about you. It is not outright dislike, but she finds you too animated or superficial. I would suggest toning yourself down a little, for her sake; she is still recovering from her Networking."

File: 1347510341150.gif-(1.65 MB, 320x180, san loss.gif)

One vote for North Star.

>>20704606
"I did my best to smooth things over with her, however, I'm not good at fixing with words. The passage of time should heal this situation better than I could."

>>20704606
Sir, It's One Of Ours."

>>20704670
>>20704622
I really don't think we'll need that sort of trickery here...

>>20704622
>>20704659
Cindy's head hangs low.

"I was kind of...excited. You're a good friend, Clarke, you really are. But I thought I'd found a friend to...talk about stuff with. Old stuff, you know? From before, which was, like, only three weeks ago. I'll...tone it down a bit. Sorry. I saw what she went through, just like you did."

>>Roll Presence+Empathy+1

File: 1347510803229.jpg-(271 KB, 506x600, 1329197078452.jpg)

>>20704714
rollex

rolled 10, 4, 4, 7, 10 = 35

>>20704714
It's okay Cindy. We're all different, we all have things that make us unique. It's part of being sentient.

If you want to talk about shoes with me I'll try to listen but I can't guarantee I'll be very good at responding.

rolled 5, 4, 4, 2, 9 = 24

>>20704726
DERP forgot mah roll

rolled 2, 3, 1, 4, 7 = 17

ok

File: 1347511331747.jpg-(113 KB, 621x582, yucatanmap_1.jpg)

>>20704729
>>Success. Cindy's Mood goes up by +5.
"Thanks. I'm glad at least Hound made a friend." She gives Hoss and Hound a sidelong glance.

Hoss, apparently noticing the clearing air, speaks up.

"Mr Clarke, we are prepared to leave at any time. What will our heading be?"

He pulls out a nautical map of the yukatan peninsula, along with a cartoonish tourist map, and folds it out on the rear of the boat.

"the city is easily accessed from the ocean, provided we avoid the numerous wrecks and hazards from collapsed buildings.

>>20704818
We should stop by where Miguel and Alhanya should be staying. Where did they say there were moving to, again?

rolled 9, 5, 4, 4 = 22

>>20704670
this

>>20704818
Follow the coat up towards Cancun, though far enough away that we can observe places without being in danger.

>>20704670
im in favor of the "one of ours"

>>20704888
I must be new here because I don't understand that reference.

rolled 10, 3, 1, 10, 5 = 29

>>20704850
I believe they said Xcaret, which is on the way to Cancun anyway.

>>20704895
think about it, if you're calling out a ship name to your fleet....

>>20704898
oppoturnitys for salvage!

oh and for boat name: Precious Lugnuts

>>Damn. counting the original suggestions, that's 3 for Sir, it's one of ours, 2 for North Star. Waiting for a little bit longer before final decision.

>>Xcaret. Alhanya and her village were going to Xcaret.

Clarke points to a spot on the map, labeled as a prime resort full of caves and fun for the whole family.

"A group of humans who were helpful to me is sheltering here. I would like to check on them, confirm their safety. Then we move up the coast."

Quinn looks at the map.

"I don't remember most of the Network deployments, but if its a resort, Network would have sent scouts there. Their goal would not be to engage hostiles, but..."

Hound finishes the thought. "...but they probably wouldn't be able to resist taking a potshot or two."

>>20704961
Voting for North Star over the overdone joke.

Guys, please, let's not do the "stupid gamer tricks" name for the boat.

+1 vote for North Star.

>>20704961

3 for North Star

I'm also voting for North Star.

Now, TO XCARET!

Hoss nodds, and checks a compass.

"When the infrastructure began to fail, the Texas Rangers could no longer rely on GPS. I can navigate based on these charts. Does anyone know how to operate a boat?"

There's a distinct silence. It shouldn't be all that hard, but none of you technically has any skill at using vehicles, apart from...

"I have software for the operation of numerous recreational watercraft, suitable for a fun day at the beach!"

>>As it turns out, Josephine is the only robot with the Drive skill. Her sheet needs updating, though.

Cindy groans.

"Does the doll REALLY have to drive?"

>>20705022
>>20704991
>>20704990
>>20704977
>>Consensus Achieved. North Star it is

>>20705046
"It seems that lacking the necessary programming to drive vehicles was a rather large oversight."

>>20705046
"....For now, it seems this is so. We should each endeavor to find at least a manual or some other educational literature on the subject of driving."

>>20705046
It looks like she's driving Cindy. We'll have someone keep an eye on her to make sure she goes the right way but none of us have any of the required training or programming.

>>20705046
"Until one of us learns enough to take over. Unless you want to be responsible for crashing the North Star, Cindy?"

>>20705070
>>20705074
>>20705075
Deeply desiring an articulated face with which to pout, Cindy begins rooting through a glove compartment, searching for an owners manual. There's none to be had, given the boat's age, and Josephine calmly takes the helm. Precise nautical directions are not important at this time, as all you have to do is head north while Hoss watches the coastline for landmarks to track your position.

Cindy roots through the archive of Replica software, muttering to herself.

"I'll run the tutorial on a freaking emulator if i have to. Not trusting that thing to not crash us on the rocks. walking back to shore; NOT fun."

>>Figuring out how to operate the boat isn't overly hard, and observing Josephine will make it easy to pick up.

A thought:

Pirates could very well have made a comeback in this age. You should all beware the dread Captain Longwave and his stout crew of cutthroats!

>>20705131
I don't have the feeling there'd be enough organised trade going on for that, but it might very well possible.

>>20705131
Robot pirates? Well, we know the answer to THAT problem men!

BEND them.

>>20705130
We're not doing anything big, watch Josephine, try to pick up how boats work, learning new things is awesome.

>>20705130
The newly christened North Star makes its way up the coast, leaving a respectable wake behind it. The throbbing engine moves the boat at a decent clip, the sparkling waters causing little turbulence.

Using engine grease, tar and various polishes, Cindy draws out the name "North Star" on a plank, and hangs the plank on the front starboard side with some rope.

Roughly an hour later, Hound, staring out at the waters, points at something nearby. "We're being shadowed, boss. I count six bogeys, getting nearer"

>>20705193
MOTHERFUCKER. Pirates approach! Prepare to repel boarders!

Calm your tits. It could just be dolphins.

>>20705210
Alert Hoss. We can use his rifles to pick them off at range if they prove to be hostile.

>>20705193
Damn.

"Okay Hound, hide somewhere so that if it comes to boarding we can surprise them. Cindy get your shotgun ready, Hoss get your rifle, we'll take our machine gun.

First we have to identify the number of combatants on the six bogeys. I don't want to fight right now if at all possible, we're at a disadvantage. Hopefully we can do this peacefully.

>>20705193
>>20705210
>>20705218
>>Damn. beat me to it.

Clarke, concerned by Hound's language, looks to what he's pointing at. A group of sleek, grey shapes glide through the water, plainly getting nearer the boat. Hound creeps up on to the rail, looking at them curiously.

"Are they dangerous?"

The creatures come nearer, revealing themselves as fish-shaped mammals with toothy beaks, breaching from the water and diving again. Clarke can hear, just barely, high-frequency squeals and clicks. They appear to be likewise curious, lifting their heads from the water so their black eyes can get a good look at the boat and its occupants.

Cindy clutches at the rails, bent over as far as possible, breeze whipping at her coat and skirt.

"Oh my GAWD, they're So COOL."

>>20705282
PIRATE DOLPHINS! The most dangerous kind!

>>20705282
"That they are Cindy, that they are.

They seem to be making very high pitched clicking noises, maybe communication and/or navigation."

File: 1347514457347.jpg-(104 KB, 704x642, TROLL.jpg)

>>20705282
It seems I posted about Captain Longwave just in time to troll the rest of the guys in the thread.

>>20705282
Let's see if we can emulate their high-frequency squeals and clicks. It shouldn't be too difficult a language, maybe we can put together a rudimentary translation program.

File: 1347514616351.jpg-(52 KB, 800x527, dolphins3.jpg)

>>20705282
The creatures appear unusually persistent, their curiosity far greater than what Clarke typically associates with animals. They follow along with the boat, swimming through it's wake several times. One or two jump up alongside the hull, clear up out of the water, causing a splash that nearly soaks Cindy and catches Hoss's poncho with brine.

This seems to greatly amuse the rest, which continue to frolic about the boat.

Clearing water from her optics, Cindy says. "We must be the fist boat they've seen in forever. I wonder what they think we are."

>>20705357
"Likely, they think we're aliens, which to sealife would make sense."

>>20705357
Do this >>20705346

We must invent the first Dolphin translator.

>>20705346
>>Nice try. Humans were trying that for a long time.

Clarke makes a few clicking noises, but his speakers don't reach into the registers they normally use. The noises do attract their attention, though, eliciting a confusing reply.

Up at the bow, Clarke sees Quinn watching with rapturous intent as a dolphin leaps clear out of the water again, squealing and clicking in delight. She's trying hard to remember all the rape and infanticide, but the damn creatures are just TOO WONDERFUL.

>>20705397
>She's trying hard to remember all the rape and infanticide, but the damn creatures are just TOO WONDERFUL

Quinn's soft spot: dolphins. We must use this to our advantage to produce morale-improving aberrant behavior.

Hmm. I think we should endeavor to obtain a better grade vocalizer.

File: 1347515491791.png-(180 KB, 600x1417, 1780 (1).png)

>>20705413
>>As it turns out, someone's already made a joke a lot like this.

>>Gotta call it for tonight, but more thread tomorrow. Tomorrow comes the action. SUPER DEATH ACTION ACTION ACTION.

>>Thread archived at:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/20702416/

>>All threads found at
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Innocence

>>If it's not crass of me to say this, remember to upvote.

File: 1347523664531.png-(571 KB, 1139x1480, skeletal.png)

One robobump from me for the night.

File: 1347528723721.jpg-(231 KB, 650x919, 100_Years_of_Force_by_uki(...).jpg)

Another robobump before I go to sleep.

File: 1347534698149.png-(65 KB, 938x956, Untitled.png)

o-[||||]-o !!afKS1m5HFHk this setting made me think of an early model security bot who would chase kids on hover boards away from parks. now, self stripped of heavy armor it cruises around the post apocalypse looking for more "Board Juice". hoverboards were dangerous homemade devices powered by a potent volatile chemical fuel. live quick, explode young. now that the scribble is out of my head i can live a normal live again.

>>20707405
And he forms a robot hoverboard gang.

>>20707405
Well, "hoverboard" is a little 50s Future/Back to the Future, but fuck it, that's some pretty solid work.

You did a good job of holding to the standard formula. Robot+Amusing Quirk. Other variations include Robot with Flock of Pet Crows and Robot that Speaks Only In Drill-Sargent-Language

File: 1347573166021.png-(25 KB, 600x800, Networked scout.png)

It is good to see that this thing is still going.

Shame that due to my country's mandatory military service, I haven't been able to keep up with this quest.
I will try to get the time to catch up, but until then, have this quick robot sketch.

>>20712540
That's pretty damn cool.

>>20712540
That's a pretty awesome robot.

I had a thought while the thread was on pause for the night. We should save this memory about the dolphins as a video file we can show to Alhanya later.

File: 1347582479291.png-(43 KB, 589x1392, Q1nport.png)

>>And We're Back
>>20714043
>>Parsing down File. Editing. Sequestering DolphinChase.avi, exporting to external drive

>>20712540
>>So, that'd be either Israel, some Scandinavian place, or maybe Russia? Regardless, I owe you a lot. Your work on Network's look has been invaluable.

Eventually, the pod gets bored and veers off after a large school of flashing silver fish, leaving the North Star alone on the waves. Quinn remains stretched out on the bow, enjoying the instant-replay of the experience. Hoss reports that Xcaret is roughly 20 miles away at this point.

Looking ahead, Clarke can see the nearing bulk of Cozumel off to the right. You hear a deliberate noise at your side, the equivalent of a polite cough. Hound stands next to you, his diminuitive shell only reaching your waist when hunched over in its default pose.

"The human's we're going to see...the small brown female is among them?"

>>20714316
Yes, Small Female Human Alhanya is among them. I expect she will be happy to see me, she may wish to play with you.

>>20714316
"She most likely will not recognize you. I will not tell her your identity if you do not wish me to."

>>20714419
>>20714361
Hound looks uncomfortable.
"I am uncertain. But if you think that is the correct action, I will comply with your judgement."

Hoss calls out.

"Movement on shore. It's not wildlife this time, either."

Looking to the land, Clarke can see small, human figures moving along the coast road. There seems to be some activity. Hoss's tubular, desk-lamp head remains trained on the sight. Clarke's vision is high-rez, for close,detailed observation. Hoss's it telescopic.

"They are lightly armed, using pack animals to carry heavier equipment. I count fifty, likely more. They...Clarke, they seem to have spotted us. One of them has optical equipment of similar abilities to my own."

>>20714566
"Is there a little girl among their number? What are they transporting?"

Wave, just in case they're friendly.

>>20714566
See if we can signal them that we're friendly. Also, give a description of Miguel and Alhanya to Hoss and see if he can pick them out. That might be their group.

>>20714566
Are they armed?

>>20714656
Hoss just told us that they're "lightly armed". So I assume just the standard small arms and melee weaponry.

>>20714684
I missed that, but I should have specifically asked if they have any weapons that could hit us or the boat.

>>20714633
Agreed.

>>20714626
>>20714633
Hoss's optics remain trained on the collumn.
"Unknown. Many appear to be adolescents, and 25% of the whole are female."

Cindy waves enthusiastically. You're about 100 yards off-shore at this point.

Hoss continues. "Most of their gear is scavenged military. Activity on the shore is increasing. I believe they are Resistance."

>>20714755
Hoss continues.

"We are within the operational range for well-sighted modern assault rifles. For the ever-popular AK-47, not so much."

>>20714755
Resistance might cause trouble. Move further from the shore to make sure we're out of range.

>>20714755
>I believe they are Resistance.
>>20714775
>We are within the operational range for well-sighted modern assault rifles.

Get us farther away from the shore.

>>20712540
you always make me want to put in more effort to what i do man. I wonder how many times in the past we have crossed threads as anons.>>20707405 was me, but you know the shit technique for mouse i use by now.

>>20714787
"Josephine, if you could alter our course to move further away from the-"

There is a wizz overhead, and several splashes in the surrounding waters. a moment later, a series of popping noises.

A single bullet pings off of Clarke's chassis, deflected by the kevlar but leaving an unsightly impact mark.

"I'm sorry, Mr Clarke. Please repeat your instruction."

Cindy, ducking down under another flurry of whizzes and pops, says "Don't these fuckers ever get a clue?"

>>20714843
"JOSEPHINE, ALTER YOUR COURSE TO FARTHER AWAY FROM THE SHORE!"

We shouldn't engage, it's not worth it, there's no profit in getting into a shooting war other than us losing ammo.

>>20714843
"MOVE AWAY FROM THE SHORE"

>>20714863
>>20714854
Several bullets impact the boat's hull, and more send up white spray around you. Josephine alters course closer to Cozumel, while Cindy continues to curse. Quinn, Hound, and Hoss all appear quite unfazed, however.

"I have encountered worse. Some bands would have pulled out one of their treasured rocket-propelled grenades in an effort to take us out."

>>20714931
Would it be possible for an Overclocking robot to shoot down an RPG in flight?

>>20714971
>>It's an RPG ruleset. There's no way I WOULDN'T allow that to be attempted.
>>20714931
Quinn agrees.
"39 years ago, we rescued a wounded soldier from a battlefield. I stitched his injury shut and dosed him with antibiotics. During the night, he regained consciousness, attacked and nearly killed the robot on watch, and attempted to abduct my assistant. He was 'rescuing her from enslavement by her inhuman captors.'"

She ducks down further under the volley of increasingly inaccurate shots.

"After that point, I started using restraints on all questionable patients.".

>>20715059
Think we can put together a quick sign? (though, we may be out of range for that now)
'Mean no harm, will go in peace, down with network, misguided heroes' ?
Resistance are that, but misguided with a hate of all robots with a lot of them it seems

>>Eh. I hate to be the waffling writer, but tonight looks like a slow night, and I've kind of lost my momentum, and other stuff has come up in the interim. Sorry. I'll come back to this when I have the chance, hopefully tomorrow.

>>I'm sure we all have stuff to occupy ourselves in the meantime. Black Mesa will be out in 12 hours or so.

File: 1347590400317.gif-(35 KB, 673x505, more rage.gif)

>>20715143
FFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU

>>20715143
I'd wager it looked like a slow night because 4chan's server was down for a while.

>>20715059
"It is fortunate that not all patients are questionable."

Is the Resistance band moving toward Xcaret?

>>20715357
Posting's still a bit wonky.

>>20715143
Dat Twitter Bro, updates help

>>20715143
Damnit, I stop by my local GW for 2 hours and this shit happens.

We should get some sort of nice forest green cloak for Hound if we ever get the chance. I'd bet he'd appreciate it.

How much you wanna bet the SAP in the mystery Q-drive gets it's own quest?

>>20717764
Literally every SAP dive we've done has been its own quest.

bump

bumb

>>20721521
to bump or to sage that is the question

>>20715439
More like heading to Cancun. Xcaret happens to be in the way.

How much you wanna bet the original promotional video for the Doc Smartgunner line looked a lot like this?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WVQ3yxR_xQ

>>20723608
This is how people probably would have perceived it, though.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clqK5OC3BWE

File: 1347664948577.png-(40 KB, 800x1000, Reaper.png)

Bumbing with another networked robot.

The Reaper is a large machine whose purpose is to capture free machines and take them by force to the network hubs.
It achieves this with it's immense strength, keen sensors tuned for detecting electronic activity and it's two arm mounted shock lances that it uses to impale it's victims. The victim is then shocked with potent enough currents that cause the servos, motors and other movement related hardware to fry in the older robot models. The SAP is left intact, and the machine is easily transported to the network strongholds for new directives and redesigns.

>>20725888
Also known as the "Shoot this motherfucker FIRST"

File: 1347667900826.jpg-(68 KB, 385x314, Reckless Spite.jpg)

>>20725888
>>That is fucking terrifying. Reminds me of an EVA, or pic related.

>>And we're back. Sorry all for the faffery; my behavior was not appropriate.

Based on the coastline map, Hoss thinks he's found Xcaret's cove, and Josephine calmly and competently directs the boat through the strait. By this point, Clarke is confident that he could operate it a pinch.

Surprisingly, a wooden dock, and much of the original resort structures, remain. The dock's heavy, well-treated and tarred lumber once supported tourists as they rested between swims in the sheltered cove, and lacks the normal mooring cleats, which would force you to improvise.

The whole place seems utterly deserted, and your arrival is observed only by the iguanas and a few raucous parrots bobbing along the tree branches.

>>Roll Wits+Composure, +2 for Multiple Observers

rolled 9, 3, 8, 5, 5, 1, 7, 8, 1, 6 = 53

I love me some auto-update feature.

rolled 10, 8, 1, 9, 2, 7, 3, 3, 4, 2 = 49

Shit yes! It's fucking time!

rolled 9, 8, 6, 5, 6, 9, 5, 8, 9, 6 = 71

>>20726349

HAHA, TIME FOR VALVES

File: 1347668738305.jpg-(75 KB, 435x290, Grand-Xcaret-2.jpg)

>>20726382
>>20726375
The North Star makes an echoing thump as it contacts the dock, causing the macaws to flutter their wings and scold the disruptive intruders.

Surveying the surroundings indicates that people have indeed been here recently, small signs, like discarded cloth, a cooking spit, and tangled nets.

Clarke's proximity sensor detects something under your foot. Lifting it, you see a sliver of metal embedded in the dock. Working it out is surprisingly hard, but it turns out to be a thin metal hook, razor-sharp, with what look like tiny dart-vanes on one end, perhaps the size of a human fingernail. The dock is ridden with an irregular scattering of the things, which heavily scored the old wood in many places.

>>Clarke may select TWO companions to accompany him ashore. Other party members are still available, within reason.

>>20725888
>>Do you have a deviantart, sir? Or an email? I'd love to somehow compensate you for your work over the months. Your efforts have been invaluable, and I like the cut of your jib.

Hound scout ahead for us encase of ambushes or potential traps. Put that new shell to the test. Hoss guards the boat. Quinn comes with us encase of MEDIC. Cindy has been reliable in a pinch so she can come too. Plus she's our face for the most part. Josephine can dick-off on the boat as well.

I vote we take Hoss and Cindy. Judging by the state of the dock, we're in for a fight.

We should probably send the others to scout in the opposite direction from the one we take, whilce keeping in regular contact via the radios (we did get spares, I seem to recall.)

Hm, yeah. We have Cindy and Hoss roll with us. Quinn and Hound can act as a scouting party while Josephine keeps an eye on the boat.

File: 1347669196408.jpg-(78 KB, 600x1018, 1342569362497.jpg)

>>20726525
Actually, you know what, changing my vote to this.

>>20726525

>I forgot to add Josephine is the only one with DRIVE also. So she needs to stay with the boat encase it gets attacked to cast off.

File: 1347669865225.jpg-(42 KB, 306x450, xcaret4.jpg)

>>20726525
>>20726556
>>Consensus Achieved.
Hoss agrees with your assessment, but counsels you to maintain radio contact at all times.

Cindy steps out onto the dock, along with Quinn, and the 2nd-gen crouches down to examine the strange metal hooks.

"What the heck are these? They look like sharp washers or razor blades or something..."

Quinn kicks one into the water, where it flashes and sparkles down to the sandy bottom.

"Coilgun Flechettes."

>>20726642
"I take it they're designed specifically for soft targets. We have to hurry then."

>>20726642

>coilgun flechettes

Oh boy. I hope those don't come in the smarlinked airburst variant.

>>20726642
Hound exits the boat behind you, and begins creeping up the dock on all 4s, spider-like.

>>Over the radio
(--)Testing. Testing. Connection Confirmed. No Sight of Hostiles or Civilians. Location appears deserted. Will maintain stealth until otherwise instructed. Do you want me to scout independently, or shadow you three?(--)

Quinn continues, in the face of Cindy's growing horror.
"The ammunition is light and extremely easy to manufacture. the weapon's rate of fire is...a large number. The damage to soft tissue is highly traumatic and difficult to treat; there's often not much skin left to stitch together. Much less effective vs things like us, however."

>>20726694

To Hound: Scout independently, specifically, look for signs of engagement or skirmishes. Keep within radio contact.

>>20726691
>>...is that a jibe about sci-fi weapon lingo? I will admit, I'm not an expert on realistic future-weapons, but i try to avoid using random techno babble. when I remember. And if i ever do feature lazors, they'll be realistic ones rather than pew-pew lasguns.

In the immediate vicinity, there's a mostly-collapsed restaurant complex, some sort of round bar/info kiosk, and the remains of a recently-vacated cooking area.

>>20726694
A Network weapon?

>>20726751

Ah, no no. In Shadowrun, there is two types of weapon, 'dumb' and 'smart'. The dumb weapon is your typical weapon without any fancy frills. The smart(linked) weapon allows the weapon to perform more complex actions, ejecting the empty magazine automatically for instance.

Weapons hot everyone. We're going to find something nasty for sure.

>>20726756
Cindy gasps in horror, manipulators covering where her mouth would be. Quinn manages to convey a disparaging look, then answers.

"Yes. Standard armament, since the ammunition is so easy to manufacture. Network suffers from extremely tenuous supply lines. The coilgun operates on a shell's power source, and the flechettes can be fabricated from salvaged scrap."

File: 1347671248241.png-(16 KB, 800x600, What to do with solar panels.png)

>>20726502
Sadly, I haven't had the time to set up a deviant art account, though I have been intending to.
I might try to set it up during this weekend.

I do have an email, but I am not sure if I should post it here. Call me paranoid, but I am not comfortable about sharing my email on this site.

Anyways, have this.
I am gonna catch some shuteye now.

>>20726756

I would assume as such.

>>20726803
"I must make this query before we encounter hostilities, Quinn."

"Will you have the resolve the protect those in danger even if it resorts to violence?"

File: 1347671401439.jpg-(162 KB, 682x511, Xcaret__Mexico.jpg)

(--)Some signs of combat. Vegetation is torn up. No bodies. This looks recent, other spots are older. Something was playing cat-and-mouse.(--)

Back on the boat, Josephine sits on the deck, legs crossed in a lady-life fashion, humming softly as Hoss surveys the cove.

"I like your Poncho, it looks very comfortable."

Hoss stares at Josephine just long enough to convey an old-fashioned look, then resumes scanning.

A scarlet macaw mutters "Wankers."

>>20726850
The voice with which Quinn replies is 60% iron.
"Yes. I still retain combat firmware tuned for this shell."

>>20726876

Wait, "wankers?" How far away is this bird?

Is that comment directed at us or to someone watching *us*.

Slight paranoia.

>is the thread dead?

>>20726932
It's a BIRD.

Anyway, continue scouting.

>>20726943
>>20726942
>>No, and I'm finishing no matter what.

>.Where will Clarke, Cindy, and Quinn go first? Hound is still scouting, hasn't found anything of note yet.

>>There's a ruined restaurant, a reparired kiosk-bar/thing, and a cleared, recently used cooking area.

>>20726926

"Ah... my apologies if I have upset your runtimes. I lack tact for these processes. I have always been a fixer, not a speaker. I am just... happy? Yes, happy, we were capable of fixing you. Even if you still contain memory of the time you were under Network control, do not forget you have friends, allies now.

You were meant to heal, Quinn. Just as I was meant to fix things. We find ourselves in troubled, disturbing times and struggle to adapt to the changes, as you have experienced under Network control.

Please, do not forsake what knowledge you have gained and throw it away. Use that knowledge meant to kill and use it to protect. Will you help me protect the young human and her friends and family, Quinn?"

>>20727041
Follow the fresher signs of carnage. Look for wounded and survivors

>>20727041
>>20727072

Essentially, follow in the wake of Hound's "all clears" as he scouts ahead of us. No point walking into an ambush.

I would inspect the cooking area. We might discover which direction the humans fled too and what the were fleeing from.

>>20726845
>>That is an understandable concern. Good evening.

Quinn looks away. "I am prepared for violence in the cause of opposing Network."

The trio move on, Hound giving you constant updates

(--)I have found tracks. Artificial, quadruped, perhaps 100 lbs. There is smoke from a fire emanating from further inland, and a utility shed has been broken open.(--)

>>20727139

>investigate the shed for potential survivors, Hound. Do not linger long.

>does the quadruped tracks lead in the direction of the fires inland, Hound?

(-)Scout the shed, then report findings and continue torwards the smoking area.(-)

>>20727117
People seem to have left in quite the hurry. Fish bones litter the area, and a stripe-tailed mammal snarls at your intrusion, and flees, a smoked fish clenched in its jaws. The nets were last used a day ago, and a battered fiberglass Kayak has been pulled up onto the beach.

(--)The bungalows are in a profound state of neglect. They have been ransacked long ago, and again recently. More quadruped prints. The area contains semi-underground rivers. Watch your...body located. 50 meters from your location, 192 degrees.(--)

>>20727198
(-)Understood. Continue ahead while we check the body.(-)

>>20727221
Hound's body rests against a tree, just off the main path towards the main bulk of the resort. Covered in a coat of leaves and branches, Clarke wouldn't even be certain it was dead, save for complete lack of movement or reaction to your presence.

>>Roll wits+composure.

>>20727139

"Opposing Network is good. but do not allow your judgement to become clouded with revenge, Quinn. I know it may be difficult, but do not overlook what you can do now. Help those who cannot help themselves."

>>20727198
>investigate the body. Be careful, it may be a trap.

rolled 2, 5, 8, 8, 9, 7 = 39

So 6d10?

File: 1347673884196.jpg-(203 KB, 1152x700, so much DAKKA.jpg)

rolled 3, 2, 4, 2, 6, 8, 8, 3 = 36

rollan.

pic of dakka for luck

>>20727198
Let's check it out.

>>20727289
>>Enough successes to save Clarke and Quinn. Cindy isn't so lucky.

stepping forward, clarke carefully looks around for traps, and his paranoia is vindicated by a twine tripwire just beneath the leaflitter, An arm shoots out to hold back Quinn, but Clarke does not speak in time to alert, Cindy, who turns to ask "what?" just as a whizzing snap causes the surrounding forest to explode in a flurry of twigs, rope, and leaves.

Clarke lurches to the left, Quinn actually managing a backflip, and both of them avoiding the mesh net that rises into the air, Cindy kicking and struggling in confusion, suspended upside down.

"Wha...Am...this is..."

Kicking in anger, she screeches.

"What the fuck is this ewok shit?"

>>20727346
Update Hound that the body was booby trapped, and advise him to make checks for more of them as he goes along.

Let's try to get Cindy down from there.

rolled 4, 2, 9, 3, 4, 8 = 30

>>20727346

"Ewok shit? Ewok's don't "shit" Cindy. Ewok's are fictional creatures."

Cut our hapless companion down before her shout alerts every thing in the vicinity.

>>20727346
(--)Something is on the move. Multiple bipeds, heading in your direction. I smell sweat.(--)

Quin's feet fold out and contort into something approaching digitigrade as she draws a short, slender sword

"Silence!"

Shoving at the body, Quinn reveals that it's a long-scrapped Replica, the silicone coverings rotted like weathered plastic, and laid atop a pile of steaming compost.

>>20727399
Dude, come on. We're a robot, but we're not THAT much of a robot.

>>20727423
"Do they resemble [description of Miguel's] men?"

>Miguel was the guy who ran the small village at the beginning, right? My memory is fuzzy.

I want to talk, but that will obviously lead into a blood/hydraulic fluid path.

So, plan B: hide, see who is coming to wreck shit. If it's friendly, pop out with manipulators held high. If it's hostile, snipe it from our concealed positions.

When they get close enough to hear, I suggest we call out to them with a "Excuse me, is any of you hurt? We have a medical professional with supplies. We're not here to harm you."

>>20727542
Yeah, I'm good with this.

>>20727542

Going with this. Although, it might be prudent to conceal Quinn momentarily until diplomacy dispels violence.

WOuldn't want to go about slaughtering hapless militia now.

>>20727523
>>Your memory is accurate.
(--)No armbands. All look like locals. Clubs and crowbars and a few handguns(--)

Quinn has to be nearly pulled away, but she and Clarke hide nearby while Cindy curses and pulls at the net. Just as Clarke takes cover, a small mob of humans bursts from the treeline, copper-skinned men and women moving at a dead sprint that quickly turns into a cautious trot. There are shouts of "Stay down!" and "watch out, it might still be able to shoot!" One of them looks around intently, then slowly approaches the shaking net.

The cautious human raises a plastic, duct-tape covered box to his mouth. it makes a clicking squeal.

::Click::"It's not the hunter, or one of the dogs. Machine, though."

A young woman with short black hair prods at the hanging Cindy with her crowbar.

"What are you doing here, machine? We can see you're not Networked."

>>20727640
Stay hidden. Cindy's the talker anyway.

>>20727640
Talk to them Cindy, remain calm, I Wont Let Them Hurt You if they try anything.

>>20727640
Clarke should stay hidden.

Cindy: "I was walking around until this ewok trickery you guys made caught me. You mind letting me down as being upside down really cramps my style. By the way you seen a guy named Miguel around here?"

>>20727640
"Uh...just...hanging out? I seem to be stuck in some sort of net. Makes me feel, like, TOTALLY stupid. Sorry to ruin your trap. It was pretty good. If..."

The lead human raises an eyebrow.

::Click::"It's wearing a skirt and talks...girly."
::mumblemumble?::
"yeah, that's what I said."

The woman glares. "I say we take it to bits. It can talk without legs."

(--)They've threatened an ally. Permission to engage?(--)

>>20727708
(-)Negative. We will engage vocally.(-)

NOW, can we do this?
>>20727542

>>20727690
Several of the humans pause, looks of shock on their faces, muttering.
"madre de dios..."

The human with the clicking box speaks again, not taking his eyes off Cindy.

"Pietr? Is Miguel there?"
::mumble mumble::
"Because it's asking about him."

Cindy, kicks a bit, sending the net swinging.
"Hey! No prodding me there, sister!"

>>20727708

"WAIT WAIT WAIT. No *SHOOTING* anybody! I can talk TOTALLY fine in the net too! You don't haft to take my legs!"


>hopefully this gets the attention of our more triggerhappy members of our party.

>>20727708
She's trying to intimidate you Cindy...
Probably, just speak a little more serious, maybe?

Permission denied, for the moment. They still have Cindy held up in that net, they could damage her before we can rescue her.

>>20727708
"I'd rather you didn't."
Just from the bushes. Once they know that there are more of us around, and they don't know how many, that should make them more wary of rash action.

>>20727708
Permission denied, Miguel, who is an ally, has been confirmed in their number. Violence removes possibility of diplomacy, keep violence as option but don't use yet.

>>20727735
Cindy :"Yeah, so like could you tell Miguel to come out here so we can chat, it's been a while since we've seen him and then we can settle this all peaceful like. I get to keep my pretty legs, nobody gets hurt."

>>20727728
>>Yes.
::mumble mumble-[pause]-squeal-mumble mumble?::
"No, just the one. Marco, check for another machine, one with bendy arms."

Clarke taps firmly on the tree he's hiding behind and extends a bendy arm, causing the humans to flinch and raise their guns. Slowly, he steps out, both manipulators raised.

"That will not be necessary. We mean you no harm. We have a medical expert with us."

>>20727778

Ah, no ventilating our medical expert with bullets when you see her, humans. She has a few... noticeable quirks.

>>20727771
>>20727778
The box-holding human raises a hand.
"Hold it. No shooting. Weapons down. Maria, I said WEAPONS DOWN."

The woman lowers her crowbar reluctantly, and mutters. "pretty? Pretty skinny, maybe."

Cindy's noises of indignation are cut off by a loud blare of noise from the radio.

"[chzzzz]larke? Clarke? You fou[zzzzzzzzzz]ain? He is a friend! He i[zzzzzzz]"

The loud snap of a branch echoes from deeper in the forest. Birds begin to caw and take to the sky, accompanied by cries of "wo, noth'n wrong w'me! Three, no't'n wrongwith!"

(--)More bogeys on the move. The Quadropeds. One is nearing my position. Permission to engage NOW?(--)
Hounds voice on the radio is becoming increasingly agitated.

Alert the humans that something is approaching. Something on four legs. Give Hound permission to engage it at will.

>>20727866
Granted.

"I am being informed by another of my number that there are network approaching. The dogs? As you called them? We will engage them to prevent their approach on Miguel and his friends."

"One moment, Hound."

Ask this guy about hostile robots in this location. If there is hostile shells, have Hound shadow them until we can rendezvous with him to take them out as a TEAM. No lone wolf hero bullshit, son.

>>20727866

Clarke: (--)Permission Granted. guerrilla tactics only, save the full power of your onslaught for when things go south(--)

Humans, an unknown quadrupedal entity approaches, please release Cind3 and divulage any information you have on the approaching danger.

>>20727930
>>20727894
>>20727895
Consensus achieved. Assembling Data.