>>24324650
>[x] I won't force you.

Mania appears to have reacted real badly to being infected. While she may or may not have been a paragon of morality when she was uninfected, it just goes to show that not everyone will really react to an AIDA infection in the same way. It might be a bit too dangerous given how little we know about AIDA at the moment. Even if Snark is sincere about not wanting to hurt Durga/Haruko, there's no telling if Durga's infection will be relatively benign.

>>24324650
[]I won't force you
Its her choice but it would help prepare her for any thing that might come up. Might want to tell her we can possibly uninfect her if things go south.

File: 1366329820094.gif-(61 KB, 269x354, Chen1.gif)

61 KB GIF

You shake your head after thinking it over for a few moments. "I won't force you, even though it might help. I also am pretty sure I could uninfected you if things go south but there is no way of knowing what would happen if I infected you." You explain to which she breathes a sigh of relief.

"Ah, thanks Anon. Having something living in my head, even if it is just as a game character, makes me a little uncomfortable. Plus the way you described him... you trust him?" She asks causing you to think.

"He seems to genuinely want to help, though I can't say I totally trust him..." You laugh a bit.

"Oh, I see how it is. Ruri was right. People like Chen... people like Chen... should just become shaolin monks! Stupid Chen!" Snark performs an exaggerated sob from your side before vanishing in a huff.

"Anyway, it is the middle of the night so I am going to call it here, night Chen." Durga gives an exaggerated yawn before logging off.

You are now alone in Lumia Cloth

Current friends online: Luna

Wat do?
[]Log off as well and sleep
[]Go exploring
[]Go somewhere in particular
[]Contact someone(Who?)
[]Other:Please specify

>>24325028
[X]Go exploring

Exploring till these bones can't move no more.

>>24325104
roll 1d100 to get your random exploran in, if that is what is decided

>>24325028
[]Other: Talk to Snark

Since we saw the infection in our eyes in the real world lets see if it would be possible to communicate to Snark in the real world.

File: 1366330265262.jpg-(133 KB, 800x566, WarringCityLuminaCloth.jpg)

133 KB JPG

Rolled 17

>>24325134

Time to see if all of those flashy lights and skyscrapers are for real or just textures painted on skyboxes!

Rolled 30

>>24325134
Sure thing. Though if we do decide to go exploring we should invite Luna. After all the more the merrier.

Rolled 99

>>24325134
explooooore

File: 1366330949940.jpg-(170 KB, 1024x726, reaper2.jpg)

170 KB JPG

You send a quick message to Luna to ask her if she wants to go exploring with you now that the tournament is over, since you have never been in this city before. While you wait for a reply you try and talk to snark. "Hey, can you talk to me in the real world?"

"Real world? This is the real world." He replies causing you to frown.

"No, the non-digital world. The one outside the monitor." You clarify making him scoff.

"Some one should tell you there is a difference between video games and reality you know. Of course I can't." He answers making you breathe a sigh of relief.

You look up and notice you got a reply from Luna:

"To Sir Chen,

That would be most lovely, the moon is the sun to creatures like myself, and would greatly enjoy walking beside it with you. I am at the gate.

-Lady Luna Blackthorne, Grand Duchess of Holy Midnight"

You make your way to the chaos gate and have some difficulty finding her. Not that she doesn't stand out or that you are not a keen observer, but people keep coming up to you and wanting to get you to sign things or proposing. You finally manage to locate her by a stall near the gate looking over some wares.

"Ah, sir Chen. You were taking some time, thus I decided to look over some items. I believe congratulations are in order?" She asks while tiling her head.

You wave it off and offer her your arm. She grabs hold of it and the two of you begin walking the night streets.

EXPLORE ROLL: 99

Is there anything you want to ask Luna?
[]How is it you are always staying awake so late?
[]'Grand Duchess of Midnight'?
[]Other: Please specify

(Will post what you find when exploring when you decide if you want to talk to her)

>>24325438
[X]How is it you are always staying awake so late?

It's got to be close to midnight, unless I'm remembering the times wrong.

>>24325438
>[x]How is it you are always staying awake so late?

You must be made of stern stuff, Lady Luna. If it weren't for the events that transpired in the arena, I think I'd be nodding off right about now.

>>24325438
[]How is it you are always staying awake so late?

Maybe invite Durandal to take a stroll with us since he must not have many frends with that stutter.

"You must be made of stern stuff, Lady Luna. If it weren't for the events that transpired in the arena, I think I'd be nodding off right about now." You probe, trying to get her to give something up about herself.

"It is rude to ask about someone in the real world you know, more so if they are so dedicated to being in character." She explains.

"Ah, sorry." You quickly cover yourself causing her to shake her head in reply.

"It is late, isn't it? I am a freelance artist. I am also living alone, so I tend to sleep when I feel like it and wake when I need to." She explains making you furrow your brow.

"Freelance?" You ask making her nod her head.

"I draw pretty things on pixiv and other such places, and people started paying me to draw things for them. Tit for tat, sir Chen, why do you stay on so late?" She asks.

Before you have a chance to even think up a lie you hear someone come up from behind you.

"Waaaaah~ Like, wow~ You are, like, Chen, right?" The sing song voice asks causing you to turn.

Standing there, surrounded by her followers, is NAOO. You panic for a moment as you remember your last encounter was in a dungeon where her members were ready to PK you, but she just smiles at you.

"Like, this is our first time meeting, right? I'm NAOO, ah but you probably know that, right? Like, I heard you got a fanclub following in the arena so, like, I figured we could be friends. Up close your face is sort of common, huh? Hard to believe your fan-club is almost as big as mine already with those eyebrows." She goads.

A WILD NAOO APPEARS

WILD NAOO USES FRIEND REQUEST
Durandal is currently offline

Wat say wat do?
[]Accept friend request
[]Deny
[]Other: Please specify

>>24325805
Pshh
>[X] Denied

>>24325805
I want to say no but I GUESS she COULD b useful? Idk.

>>24325805
>[x]Deny
Bitch, I have a penis.

>>24325805
Accept..
No need to be an asshole.

Also..
POKEMON BATTLE INITIATE!

>>24325805
[X]Accept friend request

We don't need her fanboys angry with us

>>24325884
>>24325947
>>24325992
>>24326049

2v2, with one unsure. I will wait for a tie breaker

>>24326100
I vote no. Furthermore I say we run away.

If we are going to deny her friend request we should make it seem like a pet cat or something was messing with the power so we don't draw the ire of her fan boys. Then just avoid her when we log on

"Sorry, but who are you?" You ask her making her smile crack just a bit.

"Ehhh like, you don't know who I am? Wow, like, you must live under a rock!" She seems surprised causing the blue furred fellow from the arena to step forward.

"NAOO-tan is our goddess! She is the light of every male player in The World! She is the super popular net idol with over 10,000 fans!" He shouts proudly like they were his own accomplishments.

"Huh, so does she like... sing or dance or something? Wait- did you say 10,000 fans?" You ask doing a double take.

"That's right. NAOO doesn't have to sing or dance like those other idols, she is a ray of sunlight just by being-" He starts but you interrupt him.

"And I have a fan-club following of similar size? Wow, people are weird." You comment to Luna who nods her head in response.

"Such uncouth behavior, they are but follows of the superficial appearance. No offense, Sir Chen, but they do not even seem to care about your gender, and just wish to blindly follow things they find aesthetically pleasing." She sighs causing NAOO's facade to crack more.

"No one asked you Goth-o-mancer. Like, just accept it and-wait, SIR Chen?" She asks staring at you.

"I.....I am a man, I have a penis. I never claimed otherwise!" You protest causing her to blink at you

"A guy doesn't know me.... a guy took my fans... a guy... a guy..." She mutters causing the wolf to look at her concerned.

"N...No! NAOO-tan is being defiled by such impure language! NAOO-tan! NAOO-Tan!" He shouts holding her shoulders and shaking her.

You grab Luna and run.

Chen uses confusion, it's super effective!

You discover that the houses and outlying buildings seem to be rooms and buildings only arena renters and buy/rent as sort of a home base.

Wat do?
[]Go play with Luna
[]Explore elsewhere
[]Log out
[]Other, please specify

>>24326281
[X]Go play with Luna

Maybe we could sate the ol'wanderlust by checking out a dungeon.

>>24326281
>[x]Go play with Luna

Maybe we could make a new friend! Or see if any of our current friends are insomniacs and want to go dungeon diving.

>>24326348
Luna is the only one online

>>24326400

Oh. Well.

Guess it wouldn't hurt to chat a bit while killing some mobs, then.

>>24326482
Maybe we could find a scenic dungeon and make an outing of the whole thing.

>>24326400
I have no idea why, but all the Pokemon references make me laugh heartily.. Don't be afraid to toss them in more often!

Ask Luna what she thinks of our Male status.. She seemed to be in shock the last time around.

File: 1366334780609.jpg-(24 KB, 450x391, Luna.jpg)

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You decide that going to sleep is for the weak as you make your way to the chaos gate in the center of the city.

"Lady Luna, would you care to go exploring a dungeon with me?" You ask to which she nods.

"I would certainly not be against it Sir Chen." She replies as the two of you warp to the Mac Anu Chaos gate. You look over the area words before picking three at random which seemed about the right level.

'Beautiful Illusion's Broken Wings'

You are warped to a graveyard covered in mist and illuminated only by a light you can not see. Within the mists there are dark things lurking, which seem to flicker into focus, then out just as quickly. Around the graves are dead flowers and burnt incense.

"Oh my, this is quite lovely, is it not Sir Chen?" Luna asks gently touching a wilted flower while you turn your head side to side looking for the source of the whispers in the mists.

"Ah yeah, I guess if you are into this sort of thing. Have you recovered from your shock about my gender yet?" You ask suddenly causing her to pause momentarily.

"Yes, ah, that. I was certainly surprised, but I am much better now, thank you. Will your girlfriend be alright with you staying up so late with me though?" She asks making you shake your head.

"Don't have a girlfriend." You inform her making her narrow her eyes in distrust at you.

"Yet you were quite close with Lady Lotus at the end of the match, were you not? You even hugged her." She explains.

Wat do wat say?

Also roll 2d100s for exploran and fightan

Rolled 50, 40 = 90

>>24326760

>>24326760
Best of first 3, as normal

>>24326770
Adding:
"Well yeah, of course I hugged her. We did just took down the champion after all. Isn't that normal?"

Rolled 39, 12 = 51

>>24326824
Simple enough explanation

Rolled 9, 20 = 29

>>24326760
"We were just overjoyed about winning."

Rolled 48, 98 = 146

>>24326760

"I'm just her arena partner, serious! She just asked me to go to the games with her one day."

Rolled 87, 11 = 98

>>24326760
I needed her clear headed, and that was the quickest way I could think of achieving that.

File: 1366335668816.png-(905 KB, 1026x792, macanugate.png)

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"We were just overjoyed from winning is all. We took down the champion after all, isn't that normal?" You ask.

"I would not call it abnormal but it seemed different than that is all." She counters.

Sharp. "I needed her clear headed, and that was the quickest way I could think of to achieve that. I am just her arena partner, she just asked me to go to the games with her one day." You continue.

"She has an entire guild she could go to the arena with, yet she just one day asks you? Curious. I will ask no more of it if you do not wish me to." She says, clearly not totally convinced.

Your adventure is... bland to say the least. You spend a solid twenty minutes chasing one of the spectral shadows in the mist to no avail, and the dungeon itself seems to have been designed by a madman. More than once you and Luna would be wandering aimlessly around in circles only to be ambushed by monsters you are pretty sure should have been dead already.

You give up on the dungeon without making it to the beast temple after you run out of Mp to heal.

"That was... rather poor, wouldn't you agree?" Luna states with a shrug.

It is now 2:38 am

Wat do? wat say?
[]Try again! You don't know the meaning of the word give up
[]Ask someone nearby to join your party and help you out.
[]Do something else
[]Log off
[]Other: Please specify

>>24327088
[X]Ask someone nearby to join your party and help you out.

You always meet the most interesting people in the dead of night.

>>24327088
SLEEEEEEEEEP

>>24327088
>[]Ask someone nearby to join your party and help you out.

>>24327088
>[x]Log off

Check e-mail, messages, other stuff, then sleep. We're a government agent, not some sort of RPG protagonist.

>>24327258
Wait, but we're a Government Agent playing an MMORPG character...

>>24327088
Log off and begin trying to compile some kind of report.

>>24327258
You know what you're right.>>24327139 I'll change my vote to
[X] Log off and work.

You decide that enough is enough. You have had a long day of dealing with Snark, and that alone should earn you a pay raise. "Ah, Lady Luna, I fear I must depart now for places... bathed in the light of the sun, where I fear your dark path can not wander." You explain, trying to cheer her up through a bit of role-playing.

"Ah, I see. Then I shall see you on the morrow, Sir Chen. May you ever find the way to your own path." She offers before offering a curtsy and logging off.

You decide to check the news before you type up a report.

BREAKING HEADLINE: General

"DOLL SYNDROME'

A mysterious medical condition that causes a person to fall into an unresponsive state (like that of a doll, hence the name). Not much is known, although it has been affecting children as young as elementary school. There seems to be some link to the syndrome and the online game 'The World:R2'. CC Corp denies any knowledge, but there is some evidence this is linked to the same major coma incident from 7 years ago."

That's... something. You look through the related articles, but can't find anything more, thus you begin your report. It takes you two hours to properly summarize what has occurred and what you have been doing, as well as putting in justifications for you actions. By the time you finish it is 4 am, so you get some sleep.

You awake at 8, not feeling too tired despite your lack of sleep. You go over to your abnormally expensive coffee machine and make yourself a cup of morning nectar. You check your e-mail and see you have two new messages.

(1/2)

From: Haruko(cell)
Subject: Work crap

"Hey Anon, I managed to get some information to the Boss about my real world investigation. He decided to leak a story to the press in order to put pressure on CC Corp. He is going to do some digging on his own and try to look into some things on his end. He should email you anything he gets."

From:Lotus
Subject: Coffee

"2pm, Cafe Troisgros in Shinuku. Can you come today?"

Wat say wat do?
[]Back to sleep, fuck the world and everyone in it.
[]Reply to them(how?)
[]Log into the world
[]Other, please specify

(2/2)

>>24327710
>[x]Reply to them(how?)

>Haruko

Alright. I'm compiling a report too, will try to deliver it to the boss-man today. You want to look over it?

>Lotus

Check our schedule, see if Anon/Chen is relatively free during that time. If so....

Reply: Sure thing. Who should I be looking for once I get there?

>>24327710
[X]Reply to them
-[X] Haruko: "Try and dig up some info on the who were infected by the virus. If possible try and get their real world information."
-[X] Lotus: "What exactly do you want to discuss?"

If we can meet the infected people in person we may get some clues as to why they were chosen/infected.

>>24327710
>[]Reply to them(how?)
@Haruko, good to hear. Keep me posted on further developments and don't do anything I wouldn't do.

@Lotus, Will do.

You think over the messages before typing out a reply.

"To:Haruko(cell)
Subject:re:Work crap

Good to hear. Try and dig up some info on those who were infected or sent into a coma. If possible try to get their real world information. I am compiling a report of my own, take a look if you want."

You attach a copy of your report and send it to her.

You look over Lotus' message more before replying.

"To:Lotus
Subject: re:coffee

"My schedule is open, what do you want to discuss? Who should I be looking for?"

You take a sip of your liquid bliss when Lotus replies.

"To:Chen
Subject: re:re:coffee

A woman with a briefcase sitting in the corner by the window."

You seem to have a date. How shall you spend your morning then?

Wat say wat do?
[]Play The World
[]Go into the office
[]Other:Please specify

>>24327984
Go into the office. I want to see just how crazy we sound.

>>24327984
[X]Go into the office

Let's see what a government agent's office can dig up.

>>24327984
>[x]Go into the office

Chief might want to hear what we have so far.

>>24327984
We could always Fap.

We should probably check up on our sister.. Let her rant to us a bit.

Or we could find a Pokemon emulator online and play the SHIT out of that for awhile.

The World = Work.. Baha.

So we COULD go there, but we may lose track of time..

((3 votes for going into the office, 1 for fapping to a pokemon emulator))

You decide to take the train to your office, since you have time to kill and going back into the world is the same as working. You make your way to the office building in the center of Tokyo and show the guard on duty your badge. He nods to you and lets your pass unobstructed. You make your way to your own office first, throwing on the standard Black suit and tie dress code is pretty strict on and make your way to the chief's office. You hear the sounds of arguing coming from inside so you wait a while

After half an hour two lawyers walk out of his office sweating bullets.

"W-well just be sure you realize that CC Corp wants you to find the leak! We don't care how you do it!" The shorter of the two lawyers orders.

"Tell the president of CC Corp I don't work for him or his fucking company, and if he doesn't have the balls to come down here and threaten me himself then I don't have time for his shit!" You hear the chief reply causing the two lawyers to glance at each other.

"W...well just keep in mind we will be watching you! We... we can always replace you and get some one better in the position!" The taller of the two yells while they start making their way to leave.

"This position is the only thing preventing me from coming out there and kicking your ass so hard your balls drop. Get the hell out of my building!" He shouts as the two of the scurry away.

As you walk passed the tall one, however, you think your head starts to hurt. You turn to stare at him but the feeling, if there ever was one, is already gone.

"Agent, what can I do for you?" He asks as he sits down and gestures for you to sit across from him.

Wat say wat do?
[]"Just here to deliver a report, sir"
[]"What was that about?"
[]"Let me tell you about my imaginary friend."
[]Other: Please specify

>>24328289
"Just here to deliver a report sir. It's... a weird one sir.
You remember the rumors of how CC corp was developing Artificial Intelligence right?"

>>24328289
Option 1, then 3, in a joking manner after explaining the AIDAs. Maybe omit 3 if he doesn't seem to be in the mood for humor.

>>24328289

>[x]"Just here to deliver a report, sir"

I think I'm making some progress on the case here, but there's some stuff that might be a bit hard to believe.

"Just here to deliver my report sir, I should warn you now it is a weird one." You hand him your types report for him to read over in detail and nodded for you to deliver the report in your own words. He prefers to look his agents in the eyes when they told him something.

"I think I'm making some progress on the case here but there might be some stuff that is a bit hard to believe. You remember the rumors about CC Corp developing artificially intelligent programs, right? True AI, as opposed to just programmed variety." You ask to which he nods.

"Well, I think that they may have succeeded, but one of the side effects seems to be that it eats people. Preying on their emotions, and/or minds. I am not certain why." You explain causing him to hit his desk.

"Bastards. That game should be taken offline and studied in order to rescue people, not so they can play God. It is good you came to me with this agent, I have a contact I am going to meet who has information about the AIs and their research. We won't let them act like they are above the law and hurt people for free." He grumbles, both pissed and happy.

"Anything else agent?"

Wat do wat say?
[]"What was that about?"
[]"Let me tell you about my imaginary friend
[]"̨If̢ Į ̡we͡re t͘o ͜get͝ ̴H͠a̛ruk̡o ̶i̡nto a b͜u͜nn̡y suit,͠ ẁo͢ul͘d̛ P̴R ͜f̡i͟rè me?"
[]Other, please specify

>>24328831
[X] "I need you to get information on someone I'm meeting for coffee later today."

Maybe he can send someone to tail us and get a photo on Lotus.

>>24328831
>[x]"What was that about?"

Those lawyers out there didn't look too happy about something. Can I ask what's up with them?

>>24328864
Agreed. As a potential witness, she could be valuable indeed in establishing validity to our claims.
Also, suggest perhaps that Haruko keep a close eye on us. Our infection may not be directly influencing our behavior yet, but most people we've run into with these powers seem to be off kilter because of it- it might only be a matter of time for us as well, despite Snark's assurances.

>>24328990
I agree on meeting with Haruko since when the voices in your head tell you you're not insane you shouldn't listen.

You shake your head to clear your thoughts. "I need you to get information on someone I'm meeting for coffee later today." You request making him furrow his brows.

"Who?" He asks pulling out a pen.

"Lotus? I guess? It is her screen name but..." You start causing him to nod slowly and write it down.

"And what did she do?" He continues, not letting it bother him.

"Ah, nothing really. She is a potential witness so she could establish validity to my claims is all." You say causing him to pause.

"Did she request this or come forward to you acting as a representative of the law?" He asks to which you shake your head.

"He calmly tears up the paper he is writing on before throwing it away. "Then I can't do anything. If she came forward to you as an officer of the law and told you she wanted protection, or anything like that I would look her up, but harassing a witness or a victim is not the sort of thing we do here, not under my watch. Having secret photos being taken seems underhanded to me. Anything else?" He answers.

"Yeah, could you have Haruko keep an eye on me? I think-" You start but he holds up his hand.

"Tell her yourself, I'm not your mother, this isn't a Sunday drive to Disney world and she isn't holding her finger several inches from your face talking about how she isn't touching you." He offers as way of explaination. "If you want some one to follow you on your date you can always ask Haruko, that is why you are partners you know."

He has a point.

It is almost time for the meeting

Wat do?
[]Lotus may not like it, but I am not going alone
[]Go it alone, she is mixed up in this and could get spooked
[]Other: Please specify

>>24329289
[X]Go it alone, she is mixed up in this and could get spooked.

Well let's see what happens once we meet her.

>>24329289
>[x]Go it alone, she is mixed up in this and could get spooked

It's probably best to get a feel for the situation first. Anon can probably handle himself if he gets into trouble.

File: 1366342694645.jpg-(8 KB, 188x268, image.jpg)

8 KB JPG

this is not the place to post your bourgeois filth. This is a forum for the working class to vent their rage at the current order of power.

It is strange how some of our esteemed brethren always will confound the economic and political standpoint of Social-Democracy with the personal and introspective standpoint of the Christian ethics Socialism says you cannot run a society on pure unselfishness; Christianity says you ought to! And has said so in vain for 1900 years. We, of the SDF maintain, in conformity with the entire international movement, that Socialism will be brought about by the assertion of class-selfishness.

In and through its class-selfishness, the organised proletariat has to overcome and annihilate the class-selfishness of the capitalist class. It can only do so effectively by the entire transformation of the system of modern production, distribution and exchange, i.e., to this issue it must of necessity be driven in its life and death struggle with its rival. But though the transformation can only come about, as we are convinced, through the class struggle of a class-conscious proletariat, yet class selfishness and class-struggle disappear with classes themselves so soon as the end is attained.

>>24329419
...wat?

You decide to go meet her alone. You walk out of the building and luckily are close enough to Shinjuku you just aimlessly, wander the streets. Despite working in the center of Tokyo, you never really spend a lot of time checking out the district, finding the trendy up-scale cafes and stores to be a bit off putting. You wander through the masses of people, a pair of teenagers whose displays of public affection made you feel you should arrest them held you up for a good five minutes, but finally manage to make it to the cafe.

The place is everything wrong with the modern cafe industry, with cute waitresses, hip music playing, far too much lighting, and those basket things full of snacks they give you for free. One of the waitresses walks up to you and smiles. "Table for one sir?" She asks causing you to shake your head.

"No, I am meeting a friend here. They should be here already..." You reply scanning the room. The casual layout of the building making you feel uncomfortable. You should have met in a dingy bar.

You see the corner Lotus mentioned and the woman. She is thin with oval shaped glasses and a briefcase by her feet. She is waring a white blouse with a dark jacket and a matching skirt. She has on a pair of heels and is wearing pantyhose, and coupled with her dark brown hair being tied up in the back, you arrive at the conclusion she is an office worker of some sort. She is sipping a cup of tea and looking at the table seriously, her face perfectly smooth and devoid of laugh lines or wrinkles. You estimate her to be in her early 20s.

How do you introduce yourself
[]Professional, you are a special agent damn it
[]Casual, just a friend meeting a friend, it is still a classified mission after all
[]I̴.͠..͟I͏ ̶a̢m a̶ ̶m̷an! I̕ ́h͘a̧v͠e ą p͢en̢is!͠
[]Other, please specify

>>24329763
>[]Casual, just a friend meeting a friend, it is still a classified mission after all

>>24329763
[X]Casual, just a friend meeting a friend, it is still a classified mission after all

No reason to make her unnecessarily suspicious.

>>24329763
>[x]Casual, just a friend meeting a friend, it is still a classified mission after all

Just need to make sure that it is Lotus, and not someone else who might just be sitting in the same place.

"Excuse me, I'm looking for someone. Has a briefcase, serious demeanor, one of two people who are arena grand champions in the Demon Palace in The World?"

>>24329886
This. Supress the urge to proclaim our masculinity as we do so.

You decide to take it casual, no sense in spooking the girl. You stroll up the the table and raise your hand with a smile. "Excuse me, I'm looking for someone. Has a briefcase, serious demeanor, one of two people who are arena grand champions in the Demon Palace in The World?"

The woman looks up at you before eying you head to toe. She frowns a bit before commenting. "Arn't you a bit too similar to your avatar? You are like one of those Korean pop stars." She comments coldly, her voice just as serious in the real world as it is in the game. Some people use voice modulation in order to sound cooler than they actually are, but she seems to not be one of them.

"That sort of hurt. Must I shout my battle cry?" You reply taking a seat across from you, you instantly aware of how stupidly small these tables are.

"Oh? My apologies." She offers before taking a sip of her tea.

The waitress from before happily walks over and beams at the two of you. "Okay, so what can I get you two now? Maybe try our house soup? Some ice cream maybe?" She offers making you wonder how one offers hot soup followed by ice cream.

"Another Jasmin tea and the house soup." The woman you only know as Lotus answers to which the girl happily scribbles down.

"And you sir?"

How do you introduce yourself to Lotus?
[]As Anon
[]Write in name and voting
((Since there was some unhappiness with the name anon I figured we could use now to change it if the majority wanted to))
Wat food?
[]Coffee
[]Tea
[]Sandwich
[]etc. write in

((Will wait a while for name ideas))

>>24330095
[X]As Anon
[X] Coffee

I'm don't really feel strongly about the name, so any choice is fine.

>>24330095
Or we can stick with anon, that's cool too

>>24330095
I ain't good with the naming of the moon folk, so I'll leave that up to other, more creative anons.

>[x]Tea
>[x]Soup

>>24330095
>[x]As Anon

Anon can be a representation of whatever name the reader deems appropriate, and not truly a name (or otherwise a nickname he acquired for whatever reason). Since I am not familiar with Japanese naming conventions, I think it might be a better idea to let people imagine the main character's name as they go along.

>Food

>[x] Coffee
>[x] Sandwich

Contrarianism, ho!

>>24330095
According to wikipedia, and cursory internet searching, Anon actually is a valid name in Thailand.

So depending on the ethnicity of our parents, that could actually be our character's name.

>>24330185
This. We're feds, coffee is a must.

>>24330137
>>24330185
>>24330248

Anon it is then. We started this quest as agent anon and we are going to finish it as agent anon

You look over their coffee selection and point one out. "Kenyan Coffee and one of these turkey sandwich plate things." You instruct which she happily writes down and goes on her way.

The two of you sit in silence for a bit, she evidently content just to sit in the real world as she is in the game. You finally decide you have had enough of it after the waitress returns with your food without either of you saying anything. "I am Anon." You tell her causing her to slowly set her tea down and look up at you.

"Ryoko Sato. You can just call me Ryoko." She tells you before resuming her tea drinking.

You take a sip of your coffee in response, your sophisticated coffee palate deciding that yes, the acidity is just about right, and the bitterness is well balanced for such a dark roast, but you can make better.

"You are smirking." She observes causing you to glance at her. "You drink it black?"

"Yes, I do." You reply before eating one of the tiny sandwiches which were brought to you. "While this meet and greet is awkward and all, could you tell me why you wanted to meet with me?" You ask to which she nods.

"As you know, the character known as Raum was responsible for using a technique called data drain and sending my younger sister into a coma. That same technique was used on me, however my Tarvos managed to awaken and protect me in time. I then sought out other players capable of perceiving the form the powers take and planned to use them to take revenge on Raum by either data draining him into a coma, or death." She admits freely before taking a sip of her tea and resuming. "That individual, as you are well aware, is you. I planned on using you to get my revenge without consideration to your own circumstances, and for that I am sorry."

(1/2)

She pauses for another moment, as if letting her apology sink in. "However, with you preventing my revenge, I had to change my objective. I wish to find some way to bring back all the players who were sent into comas, or at the least, my sister. I believe that the answer to the revival of the players lies within 'The World'. The fact of the matter is, ever since my sister was data drained, her character remains logged in, which I have some theories on but are not the point at this time. CC Corp is a monster which even the government can not manage, which is why I wish to ask you sincerely to aid me in this endeavor." She explains before sipping her tea again as if indicating she is finished.

"Why ask me? And why in the real world?" You ask causing her to stare at you for a few seconds before replying.

"Because I trust you, Anon. The individual behind the screen does not matter, but I wished to convey this idea to you." She nods as if satisfied before continuing. "As for why in the real world, I did it because no man can resist stockings and pantyhose. Of course, I had hoped you were a teenager, or perhaps an overweight wizard. Sadly, it seems the barrier between reality for you and your character is too thing." She finishes causing you to spit swallow your coffee down the wrong tube.

You cough for a few seconds before regaining composure before she adds on. "That was, of course, a joke."

"The real reason then?" You ask, quietly cursing her perfect mask.

"I had concerns about us being overheard by three entities. One A government agency that can not be trusted to even handle a single company. Two, CC Corp personnel. And Three..." She pauses as if finding the subject uncomfortable. "The entity known as 'Snark'. While he has proved helpful, I am... cautious about trusting any creature of the black dots. I had to be certain you were not under any influence when we spoke." She explains.

Wat do? Wat say?

(2/2)

>>24330831
"Who"s to say I'm not under Snark's influence right now? On a more serious note, I believe that by finding your sister's character and draining her of the virus she may be able to return."

It worked with Mania infection, so it might work with her sister.

>>24330831

It might be best to see how Lotus thinks before we agree. We may agree on principle, and it is our job to investigate this thing to its logical end, but it never hurts to get a feel for a potential partner before formalizing the deal.

>Reply
"What exactly did you have in mind, as far as investigating this problem goes? I doubt that every 'infected' or otherwise special person will attract as much attention as Raum did, with his very visible participation in the Demon Palace tournament. Present company excluded, of course. And ignoring Mania. Even though that's like five for five, as far as we know."

>>24331000

Forgot about Hamelin, too.

You decide to hold out for more info before you fully decide. "What exactly did you have in mind, as far as investigating this problem goes? I doubt that every 'infected' or otherwise special person will attract as much attention as Raum did, with his very visible participation in the Demon Palace tournament. Present company excluded, of course. And ignoring Mania. And Hamelin Even though that's like five for five, as far as we know."

"Thinking back on Raum's behavior, I speculate these... AIDA? Base themselves in emotions, they are fascinated by people, perhaps due to our ability to feel things as they do not, perhaps because they are impossibly bored. I believe that at the very least tracking the phenomena known as AIDA, as well as rumors relating to them, will lead us right to them. I think they want to be found, also, during the matches with you and against the infected, I felt my Tarvos... resonate. I can only speculate, but it is possible my power is drawn to yours and those like yours."

You think over what she said for a few minutes before adding "Who"s to say I'm not under Snark's influence right now? On a more serious note, I believe that by finding your sister's character and draining her of the virus she may be able to return."

She nods to you "It is possible, but unlikely. Fundamentally you should understand how the power works more than I do, when I was taken out in the fight against Mania I was in a coma for a few moments until you returned my core. I believe the power has the ability to... translate human brain signals into data, and then rip it out. Of course, I have no idea why, or how, or even who made them, and this is all speculation based on their behavior but it is good enough to go on for now." She speculates causing you to frown.

Everything on the table now.

Wat say wat do?
[]Alright chum, let's do this
[]Sorry, I can't
[]Other: Please specify

>>24330831
Well that's convenient.

We should probably keep our involvement with the aforementioned government a secret, considering her low opinion of it.

But all in all I see this as a good idea.

Man we are on fire when it comes to making progress on this case.

>>24331254
Let's do this.

>>24331254
[X]Alright chum, let's do this

Unless I'm missing something this is a pretty good partnership.

>>24331254
"There's something I've been meaning to ask, just what is 'Tarvos'? It seems... different than the AIDA, but has similar properties."

>>24331254
>[x]Alright chum, let's do this

Alright, I'm in.

Where do we start?

You smile and nod at her. You wish all your cases could be this easy. "Alright, let's do it." You tell her and though slight you see her relax her shoulders. You did not even notice how tense she was up till now.

"Thank you Anon." She smiles slightly at this before resuming her cool facade.

"Can I ask, what is Tarvos? It seems different from my Snark." You tell her causing her to nod.

"It is certainly different, but I am not an expert in the field. I just know I have this power, and it is similar to Raum's. Sorry." She apologizes making you nod. Oh well, can't always be that easy.

"Where should we start?" You ask her causing her to look at her watch.

"I feel if we continue to investigate rumors about the black dots, as well as areas reported to be buggy we should find something. Rumors are our best bet, we have to keep our heads down. Hamelin... I believe he is like Raum and myself." She offers before finishing her tea.

"We shall meet up when we have time and keep the other informed of our progress." She tells you before leaving some money on the table and leaving.

You make your way back to your place when you receive a text.

"From: Bossman
Subject: Information

I met my contact, such as it were. I left a copy of the information in the old place. I am sorry Anon, I am sorry for dumping this burden on your shoulders, but you are a good man. A man who I can trust to see this through to the end. The agency is compromised, I am not sure how, but it is. I likely won't live to see this through to the end, but at the least I wanted to pass it on to you. Save them Anon, save the lost ones."

Your headache is back

The old place he refers to is a small decommissioned JSDF training field nearby with lockers and coins.

Of course, you could rush out and try to find the bossman, you can probably still find him if he was leaving from the old place.

Wat say wat do?
[]Go Search for Bossman
[]Go for the info, you have your orders
[]Other, please specify

>>24331698
>[]Go for the info, you have your orders

hes one of those old school guys and going to save him would only compromise our identity.

BOSSMAN...he lived a hard life...

>>24331698
>[x]Go for the info, you have your orders

Chief is counting on us to continue his work. Either CC corp is going full Shadowrun and got a hit out on him, or he's going to join the ranks of the Lost Ones very soon. In any case, we have to get that information before anyone else does.

>>24331698
[X] Go Search for Bossman

He's not dieing if I can help it. Send Haruko to pick up the info while we search.

>>24331698

[]Go for the info, you have your orders
Also, we should covertly warn haruko about how shit is going down and to exercise caution

>>24331698
Go for the info, call Haruko for backup.

>>24331698
[x]Go for the info, you have your orders

Don't forget to shed a single manly tear while looking at our cellphone. Bossman's sacrifice will not be in vain, but he certainly deserved better than death at the hands of CC Corp. If Lotus asks, "Nothing, it's just the rain..."

You have your orders. You run through the apartment, q͞u̕íc̢k̛ly ͝gr̕a͏b́bin̴g̨ yo̸u̢r̸ ͟k҉ęy͡s ànd̨ r̀un͞niņg o̸u͏t th̨ę d͝o͠or.̢ You never have an excuse to ride your bike, Tokyo streets just don't agree with you generally, but this time you have no choice, you need to go fast and the bike is the best chance you have. You throw on your helmet and speed towards the old JSDF camp grounds. You narrowly manage to avoid traffic, and a particularly spry schoolgirl who is associating with a gentleman far too old for her. It takes nearly 20 minutes before you are at the old training field.

You kill the engine and walk the bike up to the gate before sneaking through a hole in the wall. You look around the darkened training field before catching sight of a flashlight by the shooting range and crouching down. You can't tell how many total there are, but there is at least one person there looking through the benches and tables by the shooting range.

You look around the few buildings in the compound and think back to the days you and the chief used to spend here.

You think over what to do before an uncomfortable weight on your side causes you to feel down and examine what is weighing you down. Your hand comes away with one of the Beretta 92FS Haruko got you for your last birthday after the two of you god very drunk and watched a John Woo Marathon. You must have grabbed it by reflex. You check your pockets and find three magazines not counting the one already in the pistol.

wat do? Where check?
[]Check the lockers
[]Check the command building
[]Check the women's locker room
[]Check the Men's locker room
[]Go straight for the enemy. Then you can take your time and check everywhere else

[]Check the women's locker room

>>24332175
Check the women's locker room.

Oh chief... you had some really bad habits.

>>24332175
[]Check the women's locker room
always was a bit of a perv that old man...WE'LL MISS YOU PERV-SAN

>>24332175
[X] Go straight for the enemy. Then you can take your time and check everywhere else

This way we can get some info about the enemy.

>>24332175
What's the difference between
[x]Check the lockers and the locker room choices? We only check one? Going for this regardless.

>>24332175
I'm really digging how the utter failure we had in the arena seems to be actively fucking with our sanity.

>>24332262
The lockers are just quick storage things by the shooting range for holding personal effects, while the locker rooms have larger lockers for whole outfits

You decide the chief would hide it the last place anyone but you would look, the women's locker room. You sneak around the bushes and make your way into the curved building, the walls little more than sheet metal under a waterproof tarp. You start searching through the toilet stalls, and then the shower heads and drain pipes. You are in the middle of checking a blind corner by the toilet stalls when you hear someone walking around.

"Yeah, just have to take a piss. I'll check in here, just go someplace else" You hear a gruff woman's voice call out before entering a stall and beginning her business.

What do?

[]Kick in the door and put a gun to her head
[]Wait it out, if you didn't find anything in here she won't either.
[]Kill her
[]Other, please specify

>>24332362
[X]Kill her

Once the person that she was talking to comes in we can capture and question them.

>>24332362
>Other

knock out her friend and wait for the pooping chick. only 2 of them might want to take them alive.

>>24332404

Seconding this. Need to be all stealthy and shit.

>>24332404
If we're good enough at sneaking to pull this off, that'd be pretty cool.

You decide to opt for the other person the woman was talking to. You holster your gun and calmly and walk carefully and casually out of the woman's locker room, being careful with how you distribute your weight. You make your way into the men's locker room and see a large black man rooting around the lockers. He is wearing a simple white t-shit, black fatigues tucked into black boots. You see he has a pistol of some kind strapped to his waist as you slowly sneak up on him. He is not using a flashlight, so that means there is at least one more operative in the field. He turns quickly and you duck quietly into a shadowed corner, thankful you opted for the suit, it is only too bad you don't have a duster to complete the image. The guy looks around in your general area before the woman calls from the other locker room.

"Hey, John! Get me some paper!" She shouts making him laugh.

"Why don't you come get it yourself?" He replies as he goes over to the toilet and grabbing a roll.

"Ha ha, very funny asshole. Hurry up." She continues.

You waited for your chance and it came. You latch onto him from behind and push his head forward with one arm while you press on his jugulars with another wrapper around his head in a headlock. It only takes a few seconds before he hang limply in your arms, his brain deprived of that precious oxygen.

You now have a large, armed, unconscious man on the floor of a men's locker room.

You know there are at least two more enemies in the facility.

Wat do?
[]Go back to the women's restroom
[]Look for the other person
[]Other, please specify

>>24332649
tie him up and stuff him in a locker. Bring the other agent some "paper".

Seems to have winded down. I will pick this up again tomorrow.

Thanks for playing everyone! Don't forget to vote in the archive

>>24332717
Take his gun first.
Also maybe roll the paper over to the woman so she doesn't think anything's up?

B-bump.
Also, voting for giving woman paper, then knocking her out too. A small courtesy so she isn't stuck her pants down. Do we also write and leave a note on them for shits and giggles?