>>26671493


Welcome back JQOP! You da man!

>That was two days ago.
Aww, man, i thought we were gonna help with that corrector thing after that.

>>26671535

It's a cold day. This close to winter, sullen grey clouds wisp across the skies: The flat concrete of the school rooftop matching the overcast grey above.

For once, you're alone. It's getting colder day-by-day; Soon, it'd be too cold to stay up here for any length of time. But you've found a cozy spot, near one of the thermal vents of the heat exchangers: Sheltered by the overhang, it's warm and (mostly) comfortable.

Your return to school was...Well, it was ordinary. Natsumi laughed, and Kazuya made a joke about a long weekend - Otherwise, it was as if you were never gone.

Asuna didn't come to school today, and Kazuya had a prior appointment - Which is why it's oddly tranquil up here, with the view of the city through the wire-mesh fence.

Your left hand twinges, as you take another bite of your sandwich. It's still bandaged - Your ribs are a little sore, and you're slightly stiff when you stand and sit down...But other than that, you're no worse for wear - Except for slight ache in your left palm.

You do, however, have a lot to think about. Such as...

[ ] The hospital's coma ward.
[ ] The Hollow Sun
[ ] The new Corrector hive.
[ ] Cybele
[ ] Asuna
[ ] Mio
[ ] Palladium Rook

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26671675

Oh, so it's going to be in flashback?

> Corrector Hive
> coma ward.

>>26671675

[ ] The hospital's coma ward.
and please [ ] The Hollow Sun too

>>26671675
'lo OP. Hope nothing's gone too wrong.

[x] Asuna for $200 if you don't mind.

>>26671709
>>26671710

I like all of these.

If we're thinking about those, we might at least think about []Cybele while we're at it. Hopefully she came through for us.

Also, am I the only one who wants to head back to corrector hell, find the beast that 'ate our heart' and kick its ass until it gives it back?

>tfw Joker Quest sits at around 10 while fucking Akuma Quest rockets past 20.

>>26671745
please dont bitch about other threads, it invites trolling and is generally stupid behaviour

>>26671776
Sorry, it's just god damn depressing is all. Original setting, good writing, good rules, and.../tg/ just doesn't recognize it.

>>26671787
Its probably timezone issues. Joker Quest runs pretty late after all.

>>26671787
if you base your recognition off votes, you should look at your views on life. i love JQ, but to each their own. and >>26671796 is right, timezones are an issue

>>26671796
If only. I keep talking about it in the quest thread generals, but people aren't even willing to give it the time of die. I think /tg/ just genuinely hates original settings.

>>26671809
Votes usually correspond to fanbase though, don't they?

>>26671834
So? if someone else is missing out, you dont go around saying that what they like is shit. its just courtesy

>>26671851
It's just maddening.

When LL goes on his purges, our quest will be one of the ones on the chopping block because Joker Quest wasn't fanfiction to get gold.

>>26671865
theres a lot of things to delete before joker quest. stop scaremongering, enjoy the thread

>>26671796
>Its probably timezone issues. Joker Quest runs pretty late after all.

its 2 am here!

>>26671675
>You do, however, have a lot to think about. Such as...

Fuck it, lets do it all! In order of preference....

>[ ] The new Corrector hive: Fuck that place. We were all set to go there and kick corrector butt after our resolution last time, and make sure our friends didn't DIE in the outporing/aftermathThis led us to the
>[ ] The Hollow Sun: Where we popped in to grab some new guns to try out, check out that strange golden armor that's self-assembling, and stock up before we left the
>[ ] The hospital's coma ward: Hopefully our body stayed put during our red world shenanigans - and we were still going to check who hecate was visiting there! Don't forget that while we're spending time recovering, after the incident with...
>[ ] Cybele: We're not sure how this makes us feel, but at the same time, we have LEADS and information on the meta-game.
>[ ] Asuna: Maybe she came to visit us while we were sick? In any case, we need to see if her play-vision-of-the-future-from-her-dreams has changed!
>[ ] Mio: Crap. We probably should owe her a phone call or something, or maybe have the Red World conversation with her.

>[ ] Palladium Rook: we should at least say hello to the guy after we saved his butt, since he's probably in the hospital too.

>>26671880
Well, of course I'll enjoy the thread.

Just wished /tg/ had taste is all.

>>26671922
that'll never happen. since taste is an opinion

File: 1376727182615.jpg-(388 KB, 1280x680, jokerhollowsun.jpg)

388 KB JPG

> [X] The new Corrector Hive

By the time you got there, it was all over bar the shouting.

With the Tempest Scrander crackling with cohered charge, you descended to find-

It was a strange sensation, soaring over the sleeping city - Hovering on wings of jetair and flame, and wondering...

Where *is* it?

A great hole in Dis - With Correctors boiling forth like a plague of ravenous locusts - attracts attention. The only problem was: It wasn't there. You must have circled the area twice over, and you still couldn't find it amongst the iron city's alien architecture. It was gone, as if it'd never been.

When you landed, at last - At the place you were *sure* it must have been - armoured footfalls against the obsidian streets, there was nothing to show that, mere hours ago, the place had been devastated.

It was...strangely eerie. Your dreams, last night, were murky and half-cohered - Of a vast, silent void that extended into infinity.

> [X] The Hollow Sun

The Hollow Sun...sleeps. When you last ventured into it, the lights of the great command chamber had dimmed - Pulsing faintly, warm to the touch when you placed your gauntleted hand on it. The link was slow, sluggish...Reluctant, as if you'd exhausted the energies allotted to you.

But all it needs is time. Time, to replenish itself.

(Continued)

You can empathize with that.

> [X] Asuna

She didn't turn up at school, today. You've called her, but you've only reached her voice mail, with the same canned message. There was another student librarian at the front desk, someone you didn't recognize.

> [X] The coma wing.

Accessing the Metropolitan General Hospital's coma ward is...A rather complicated procedure. From the little you've learnt, it's a state-of-the-art-faculty, dedicated to one purpose: The long-term care of critical patients from six years ago.

Records from that time are sketchy - In many ways, they're still picking up the pieces. In a way, it's a holding faculty, more than anything else...To hold the anonymous and the unidentified, until such a time as they recover - Or their family lays claim to them at last.

To apply, you filled out a series of forms in triplicate; In preparation for the trawling of the great but fragmented database to come.

And at the last entry:

ENTER NAME OF PATIENT

[ ] Free.

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26671905

(My apologies: To avoid an extensive post, I'll cover the rest in the next one.)

>>26672012
what was hecate's actual name again? i should reread the archives, but im tired

>>26672031

I think it was Kaname Tsukimi?

From here.

http://archive.foolz.us/tg/thread/20382499/#20382514

>>26671796
Huh, it's always at about 10 am for me.

>>26672031
Pretty sure it was a pseudonym. Still, no reason not to try:

>>26672012
>Kaname Tsukimi

Also
>Saori

but not having a last name will be problematic.

Oh, and just out of curiosity:
>Kotone

>>26672031
>what was hecate's actual name again? i should reread the archives, but im tired

Don't we have a phone picture or something we can take? I"m almost certain we'd know who to ask for, but I just don't remember it as a PLAYER.

Well, we know cybele's, don't we? Saori something, right? Might be a good place to start.

>>26672012
kaname tsukimi
>>26672115
i think JQOP is asking who we want to be in the ward, so im putting her down for consideration

>>26672115
>>Kaname Tsukimi

Anagram, maybe?

>>26672012
Gary Oak.

I'm sorry I couldn't resist

>>26672124
>i think JQOP is asking who we want to be in the ward, so im putting her down for consideration

who we're LOOKING for

>>26672148
thats what i meant. may as well try?

>>26672124
i'll go with him, to move the quest along

>>26672106
>>26672115
>>26672135

You entered in the names, one after another - To a whirr of electronic noise, as the machine digested your application. The screen, glowing a placid blue, thanked you: You would be notified as soon as your request was processed.

Somehow, that struck you as oddly ironic. The Metropolitan Renewal Program, the Urban Re-Population Initiative - The city made an immense effort to move on from the wreck of the past, for old wounds to scab over.

But at the same time, the past is all around...Just waiting to be dug up.

> [X] Cybele

You haven't heard from her, since - But in all fairness, it's only been a day. You only noticed it later, but (at some point) the pocket casette player you'd been carrying had stopped it's slow rotation.

> [X] Palladium Rook

The last you saw of him - Battling the hideous creatures spilling from the new Hive - he was alive, and tearing into them with matchless fury. Only a glimpse, but it was clearly him; You wonder how he's coping.

You'd have to ask Natsumi.

> [X] Mio.

Right - You haven't received your replacement phone, yet; Your old one was pretty much finished off by tunnels. Come to think of it...She's probably at the Papillon, tod-

"Anon." Kouichi's voice is - As ever - ever-so-slightly formal, the rooftop door creaking at it swings open. Smiles don't come easily to his serious features, but he tries, all the same; His lunchbox held out before him, white rice and mackerel with plenty of pink ginger and teriyaki sauce. "-I thought I'd find you here."

He hesitates, just for a moment - "...That is, if you don't mind?" Kouichi adds, a little awkwardly; His expression slightly sheepish, now.

[ ] "Sure."
[ ] "Something on your mind? You look troubled."
[ ] "I thought we weren't on speaking terms?"
[ ] "How have you been?"
[ ] "-I'd prefer to be alone, actually."
[ ] Free.

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26672262
>[ ] "I thought we weren't on speaking terms?"
but not meanly. followed by [ ] "Something on your mind? You look troubled."

>>26672262
"Long time no see, Kouichi. I don't mind at all."
"Something on your mind?"

>>26672262
[x]Free:

"Well, you found me. How have you been? I didn't expect you to come looking for me... "

>>26672262
>"...That is, if you don't mind?" Kouichi adds, a little awkwardly; His expression slightly sheepish, now.

"Not at all. Frankly, you're the only one who's come to visit. Its nice to see a friendly face. I'm a little surprised it's you, that's all. Come on in, kouichi."

>>26672281

> "Long time no see, Kouichi. I don't mind at all."

He sighs, in evident relief.

"I appreciate it. I'll be imposing on you, then."

> [X] "I thought we weren't on speaking terms?"

"-Well, it *is* dangerous to be around you," Kouichi says; His legs folding beneath him, as he eases himself to the ground. There's something very...*Proper*...about him, at all times; It's in the way he never quite relaxes even when he's at ease, the straight lines of his back and limbs.

He gives you an expectant look, and you realize that was probably a joke. "The truth is, I *do* still owe you. But...With that aside - I'm just looking to 'hang out'." (Kouichi actually pronounces it as a separate word.)

>>26672336

> [X] "Well, you found me. How have you been? I didn't expect you to come looking for me... "

"I've been well enough," Kouichi says - It looks like eating's the last thing on his mind. His eyes flick to the side: "The others have been prospering, too - Well, in their own way," he admits, broad shoulders lifting in a slight shrug...And with a trace of a smile.

Then, rather more hesitantly - "I, ah, heard about what happened in Naraka. Secondhand, of course. But...I'm glad you survived."

There's that familiar, awkward note in his voice again. He's building to something.

> [X] "Something on your mind? You look troubled."

He's fussing with his chopsticks - Trying to get them out of the holder - when he hears you. There's a *snap* as one breaks, and Kouichi hisses under his breath; A flush crawling it's way up his neck, his jaw bunching. He's actually going red in the face.

"Yes, well..." His eyes close. He breathes in. "-It's a troubling matter. I've been hoping your...Unique perspective...on the matter."

(Continued)

Kouichi clears his throat, coughing lightly into the ball of his hand. "Anon, how do you, uh - Approach, well..." He's actually going red in the face. "-The fact of the matter is," he begins again, then shakes his head. You can hear him muttering under his breath, just for a moment - Beads of sweat on his brow.

"...How *do* you approach a, a lady?" he says all at once - With an admirable lack of a stammer, though his hands are gripping the black lacquer of his lunchbox hard enough for his knuckles to turn white. "-I ask because, well...You're..." Kouichi makes a rather clumsy gesture. "-You seem...experienced in those matters."

[ ] "What?"
[ ] "...You're kidding, right?"
[ ] "Who are we talking about, here?"
[ ] "You're asking *me*?"
[ ] "What brought this on?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26672526
ha. AHHHAHAHAHAHA. oh, spaghetti-san, we missed you. who's the lady, may i ask? and rule one-be natural

>>26672526

> [X] "Who are we talking about, here?"

Hang on a minute.

> "Wait, it's not Mio, is it?"

>>26672526
"Uh, you're talking about me, right?"

>>26672262

Query for you, op!

I was wondering if we could try our hands at Artifact Creation. Its not the time for it now, but i had some ~ideas~ we could possibly elaborate upon!

>>26672526
>-You seem...experienced in those matters."

"Oh my! Kouichi, what brought this on! If we're gonna make this work, I want details! But sure, I'll help you out."

"I've always found it easy to talk to people, like I've got a little conscious in the back of my head, that, well... its like an intuition or a guess as to what to say. For people in general. "

"... it's funny, though, i was going to ask for your help with something, though. Don't worry, its not dangerous! Much."

>>26672679

Elaboration - propose trade, while 'hanging out'. Womanly advice for some close-combat/sparring pointers.

We've got all these fancy melee options now, and we could stand to train some in the real world/red world to use em. We're a -ranged- badass. Might as well time to remember our original role - frost cestus, melee man!

>>26672526
"Experienced? Well, while I consider that arguable, I wouldn't mind helping you."
"Just pray that your luck is better than mine and won't end up making girls fall for you by getting near killed in front of them several times in a row."

>>26672526
"You want to ask Mio out? And you want to ask me how to do it?

"Kou, do you remember how I mentioned that I got lucky with meeting people? This is the secret downside: Outside of serendipity I'm normal about that sort of thing. Maybe a bit worse since I know about the luck."

>>26672698
Our melee options are a monoblade and a fist. Kouichi's a SWORD USER. Monoblades are so ludicrously sharp that no regular sword skills can apply. Also keep in mind that losing even practice matches in the Red World seem to come with karmic backlashes that can get you hospitalized. Not worth it man.

>>26672636
>Query for you, op!
>I was wondering if we could try our hands at Artifact Creation. Its not the time for it now, but i had some ~ideas~ we could possibly elaborate upon!

Re: this
Tethers. We're gonna want two for when we go to rescue Hecate. (thief or argent can probably help us with this)

and something AMBITIOUS: A Hellion Bit: Merge the Rifle Bit Control/remote power system with a hellion's combat prowess, and store it in our schematic buffers.
The, of course, paint it red.

it will be -costly- to activate - since it would need to be primed, and take up power during use, but we could experiment with powering it with meter directly.

However, it would add a really nice/awesome punch to when we pop off mobile decoys and go evasive
Surprise! one hits back. HARD.

>>26672636

(I'll be sure to keep that in mind. At present, the Hollow Sun's Soul Grinder allows for a certain method of Relic creation.)

>>26672591

> "Uh, you're talking about me, right?"

"Well...Yes." You get the feeling that Kouichi secretly hopes that the ground would swallow him up. It doesn't show, except in the way his face becomes more stiff by the moment, as if his jaw has been carved from granite.

"-You seem to be, ah, rather proficient...I'd value any input you could give." He delivers the line with admirable aplomb, though his collar is beginning to wilt under the flop-sweat.

>>26672591

"W-what?" He pauses, looking stricken - "No! I mean...No, of course not." The vehemence of his words must've caught him by surprise, because Kouichi hurries to add: "I mean, she's incredibly beau- That is, very attrac - She's lov-"

His teeth lock. You can actually hear them grinding.

He goes on to say: "What I *meant* was - I don't think you've met her." Oddly enough, Kouichi looks up, towards the sky - Just for a moment. And, more softly - "-I don't think anyone has."

> [X] "Who are we talking about, here?"

He hesitates, scratching at his black hair. "I'll...prefer not to say, at present," Kouichi admits, rather reluctantly. "She's - It's complicated."

> Be natural.

"-Right," he says, and lets himself relax a little - Which means that he's no-longer sitting ramrod-straight.

>>26672679

Another pause. "...There's - Actually, there *is* very little I *can* tell you," Kouichi says, at last - Looking rather sheepish, now. "I've just - I meant to say, I only met her recently. She seemed...cordial enough. But..."

His voice trails off. Apparently, he's too embarrassed to put the rest of it into words.

(Continued)

>>26672732
>Our melee options are a monoblade and a fist. Kouichi's a SWORD USER. Monoblades are so ludicrously sharp that no regular sword skills can apply. Also keep in mind that losing even practice matches in the Red World seem to come with karmic backlashes that can get you hospitalized. Not worth it man.

Its still a matter of general close-combat stuff that we don't do often at all.

We have:
Fist
Monoblade
helix
shield.
Other assorted hollow sun armory stuff.

In any case, melee isn't something we're practiced at. We could stand some pointers, and you'v been wanting to make buddy buddy with spaghetti san FOREVER. Its more about the hanging out than Being Serious In The Red - real world theory and discussion works also

Kouichi looks...Torn. It's clear that he doesn't - Can't? - say *too* much...He's trying to ask for advice on something he's not at liberty to say. No wonder he's in a cold sweat.

>>26672711

Thank god, he doesn't say. His eyes, however, certainly do.

"I...appreciate that," Kouichi says - Then, rather more gravely; "I'll strive to avoid that, then."

"In turn, if there's anything I can do in retur-"

>>26672732

"Oh." There's a long silence. It's long, still, and entirely awkward...And filled with the tick-tick-tick of Kouichi's brain overheating.

"Still...I'd appreciate any advice you *could* give. I've never been...fortunate, or skilled...in that area."

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26672747
"Oh, one of the Hyades? Congratulations. I hope it's one of the nice ones; Kraken's is a real piece of work. Go easy on me if you see me at the Convergence.

"And no, I'm not championing one of them. But there's no chance that the Red Joker won't get pulled in to this. And sorry, I'm competitive. Better you than one of the Smilers, but I won't just let you take the armor."

>>26672765
True, but the way to get better at melee is to melee. If we get a chance to do some grinding we can try invading the Hive at Akira's apartment. That's pretty low priority compared to other things on the list, like the Children's Home.

>>26672742

Also, a one-shot disposable meter/cobalt booster battery.

I don't care if its really small storage, but having a little bit of extra oomph here and there would go a long ways towards towards helping defray Hollow Sun weaponry costs - or even let us maintain argus/bits for an extra round.

Also, more charging elements, if we can - something that would let us use a Special Weapon and a relic/hellion gun in the off hand. Like, being able to break out the tau gun without turning off the sinistral.

Or possibly fixing the Shielding Orb of the cobalt booster.

Or enhancing the assault shroud's decoys - AP let us know you can change essence signatures around, so having decoys that match our essence better would be more effective.

Anyway, just ideas i've had kicking around. Obviously, we'd be a novice artificier.
Not really worth full levelups, maybe, but just minor tweaks on stuff we have already

>>26672816

I think we should drop in on Mio today, however. We haven't seen her for a week, and the cafe has had a SHITLOAD of plot hooks.

We met Hecate and Bardiel there, and also got our first massive upgrade in the game. I get the feeling we should visit.

>>26672810
would you know how to tutor me in the monoblade? i'll never be a close-quarters warrior, but it would be nice to have the option available

>>26672810
>"Still...I'd appreciate any advice you *could* give. I've never been...fortunate, or skilled...in that area."

"Its a lot of small things. How many steps are in your kendo katas? thirty? Forty? here, let me..."

Take a deep breath and.... reach out and touch his jacket.
Smooth a wrinkle out, pry his hands from his lunchbox , get him to look us in the eyes. Adjust his stance a bit, show him how to *relax*, then look relaxed, then cocky while laid back.

A moment of just kinetics, movement, getting him to take his hands out of his pocket.

>>26672853
>would you know how to tutor me in the monoblade? i'll never be a close-quarters warrior, but it would be nice to have the option available
>>26672816
>True, but the way to get better at melee is to melee

here's what i'm thinking: we need monoblade practice.
Gonna need SOMETHING to cut pazuzu's other eye out with. Monoblade's the sharpest thing we've got. But we NEED to practice this or its gonna bite us in the ass.

File: 1376733094213.png-(1.18 MB, 1280x720, God at work.png)

1.18 MB PNG

>>26672810
"All right, romantic advice... Well, first thing's first, how do you want her to see you? The powerful and intent Bishamon? The competent and cool Kouichi? Or the relaxed and sensitive Kou? There's no wrong answer, they're all you. Just for different situations. Knowing more about the one who chose you would help."

>>26672810
"Then... mind telling me what "kind" of girl you're dealing with? In my experience, you should be natural, be yourself. That is of importance."
"Though, since you're consiously trying to make a girl fall for you, it's important to take an individual approach and be honest about it."
"So let's begin our strategic meeting."

>>26672853
>>26672856

He relaxes. The problem is, he tries *very* hard to relax, which kind of spoils the effect. But it's a start.

>>26672872

Kouichi gives you a look - It's an appraising look, his brow furrowing slightly as he contemplates this.

"I...*could*," he says, though he doesn't sound too optimistic. "-I can show you how to hold a sword properly, how to stand and how to swing...But that takes time. A *lot* of time - It'd be months before you were remotely 'proficient'."

"-Kazuya's already had some prior experience, and...He's extremely gifted. As for you; I could *try*, but I can't make you a master overnight - If at all." Kouichi's grin is tight, unhappy. "...In many ways, I'm still learning. Practice and actually fighting is completely different - Ah, but I'm forgetting who I'm talking to. You already know."

He nods, slowly. "You're welcome to it, if you're willing to make the effort. But - Perhaps you should stick with what you know."

>>26672816

Now *that* gets a response. Kouichi's unscrewing the cap from a bottle of green tea - He nearly has an incident.

"One of th-" he echoes, his face going from red to grey to milk-white. "...You *know*~?" He's rattled, and it shows - One of his hands shaking, as he looks around wildly - as if afraid someone's going to overhear.

Kouichi's voice drops to a hush - Sotto voice - "...I thought I was the *only* one. I wasn't sure *who* else I could talk to..."

He sits back, his brow furrowed. "-It's...beautiful, wasn't it? I'd never seen - green - before that. Beautiful, and terrifying..." He manages a laugh, but it's forced. "I still don't know what to make of it."

>>26672939
>>26672948

"Well." He sounds unhappy. "...That *is* the problem. I'm...Not sure."

(Continued)

>>26673060

Kouichi rests his chin on a balled fist. "-She...I don't think she knows who I am. I don't know if she cares. She's - Cold. Aloof. Proper."

"Cold and beautiful as the surface of the moon..." He catches himself, with an embarrassed cough - Though you can't help but notice how he looked momentary dreamy-eyed. "-I couldn't tell what she was thinking, to tell the truth."

"I'd like for her to see me as something...Well, more than just Bishamon. But - I'm not certain how to go about that."

Another hesitation. "...Or if I should."

[ ] "Me neither."
[ ] "-Well, at least you made a good first impression."
[ ] "How did you get there?"
[ ] "What happened?"
[ ] "'If you should'? What does that mean?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26673071
[ ] "What happened?"
Ask him whether she asked, or commanded. would he like to become her champion? think with your head, not with... other anatomy

>>26673071
So much for "We don't want to be drawn into your brand of insanely dangerous situations".

>>26673071
"How'd you meet your Kaguya-hime? Your system access plays a part, but there's also the matter of transportation... How much do you know about the Hyades anyway?"

>>26673126
In his defense he thought he was being circumspect. He also probably doesn't realize what he's going to be up against.

>>26673126

Kouichi has the good grace to look embarassed.

"...That's why I haven't told the others," he mumbles, scratching at his cheek. "-It was...A personal matter. A personal weakness. And yes, what you said: I don't want them to be drawn in."

He pauses - As if considering whether to go further, before he takes the plunge.

"The other two - They're not *like* u- you," Kouichi says, catching himself. "...They'll follow me if I call, but - I don't want to lead them to their *deaths*." He looks away, his words hanging in the frosted air.

"-It's...terrifying, taking responsibility. When I think of what *might* happen, each time -" He shakes his head. "They're my friends, Anon. I can't...I can't have that on my conscience."

"I couldn't bear it."

>>26673185
>>26673093

"'System Access'?" It's clear that he's not too familiar with the term.

> [X] "What happened?"

"It was...Two days ago." Kouichi's gaze drifts away again. "-I'd just beaten Grand Lancer. I thought it was over, but then..."

His voice becomes hushed. "-There was a hole in the sky. Can you imagine that? Colour, in the Red World. I looked up, and..."

"-And then I was *there*. It was night, and snow was falling; I remember the moon, overhead...And *her*, of course." He pauses, as if lost in memory. "Then she said: 'Bishamon-san...I need you.

Please...Fight for me.'"

The look he gives you is oddly expectant.

[ ] "...So you said 'yes'?"
[ ] "Oh, boy."
[ ] "That's it?"
[ ] "You didn't think to ask any questions?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

File: 1376735262760.jpg-(87 KB, 850x708, jokersolo.jpg)

87 KB JPG

>>26673298

(My apologies, forgot my image.)

>>26673298
>"...So you said 'yes'"?
He loves his spaghetti.

>>26673298
[ ] "That's it?"
[ ] "You didn't think to ask any questions?"
Thats it? a cute girl comes along, ask you to do something thats in direct opposition to me, Kraken, bloody wizzards, and god knows what else? you wernt thinking clearly. The Game continues, but this will be dangerous on too many levels

next time we see an unarmoured one, we ask how many there are left-not many more, i hope. there hasnt been a male one yet, has there?

>>26673298
>"I couldn't bear it."
"Amen."

>"'System Access'?"
"A measure of a Player's ability to interact with the Red World. Think of an internet forum; the Players are regular users and your experience is like your post count. But there's an invisible karma system at work too. Certain thresholds and achievements unlock additional functions and open up areas you couldn't see prior to that."

>the rest
"Never change Kou. Did you get her name?"

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> [X] "...So you said 'yes'?"

"It...seemed like the thing to do," Kouichi admits - He still has that rather dreamy smile, which is slowly but surely turning to anxiety.

> [X] "You didn't think to ask any questions?"

"...Well."

It's a 'well' that speaks volumes, as Kouichi finds his attention suddenly captured by the ground - Visibly wilting beneath your appraisal.

> [X] "That's it?"

"It was - *I* was - only there for a *moment*," he says, looking increasingly uncomfortable with each passing second. "I thought I'd imagined it all...But then I saw the mark she'd left me."

>>26673410

"...Uh."

Kouichi looks down at his feet at again. "-I, ah, I didn't *ask*...But," he says, rallying masterfully. "...I'm sure I'll see her again. Right?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26673447

Man. I'm afraid you've been suckered, you poor bastard.

Hey, I keep seeing this pop up every so often...
Seems like a cool enough quest
two questions.
What is this, setting wise
/is there a recap so people don't have to read all 50-60 past threads.
polite sage for not participating.

>>26673447
She'll want to see you. she'll want you to compete in the endgame. This will be very dangerous, as Pazuzu and Kraken, as well as me, are going to be contestants. This is something to take very seriously.
grin
so, next time you see her, try to be a little more interesting? also, what did you do after saying yes?

>>26673534
Post apocalyptic wasteland of a city, filled with cyberpunk warriors, gunslingers and knights. then find out its all in our heads, as we go around in the head of a teenage harem protaganist. paranoia reigns supreme. read the first quest in the archives, if you dislike it by thread five, its not your thing. otherwise, read it and love it

>>26673534

(My apologies: I've been attempting to summarize the game as a recap, but it's a daunting task. I hope to be able to get a concise summary up at some point, however.)

>>26673534
Accel World + [C]: The money of soul and possibility, if you know what that means.

>>26673584
I have no idea what you just said apart from after the comma.
Sounds cool though.

>>26673502
>>26673542

> Man. I'm afraid you've been suckered, you poor bastard.

"Oh." He deflates even more.

>>26673542

It's interesting to see how Kouichi's face changes color - He's almost milk-white, now, cold sweat glistening on his brow. "Are you *serious*?" he breathes, in hushed tones of imminent doom.

He swallows. His Adam's apple bobs.

He clearly hasn't thought about that. He hadn't thought about that at all.

> So, next time you see her, try to be a little more interesting? Also, what did you do after saying yes?

With an effort of will, he brings his mind back to the here-and-now.

"I'll...remember that," Kouichi manages, dry-mouthed. He hesitates, wiping his brow...Then, abruptly, he stands.

"I...I need," he says - "...I need to excuse myself. F-for a while."

There's this waxy, fixed expression to his face, now - As if someone's proposed a death sentence on him.

[ ] "What, so soon? You just arrived."
[ ] "Having second thoughts?"
[ ] "Cheer up, it's not all bad."
[ ] "I'll see you later, then."
[ ] "Y'know, you really have to be more careful."
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26673447
"That... might be a problem. You will see her again, but you won't have much time to press your suit. The Hyades can't fight, but they make up for it in other ways. One being that they can see just about any fight in the Red World. You're going to have to keep winning if you want to see her again, but if you want to catch her attention you have to do it the right way. Take less damage, defeat your enemies more efficiently, fight smart. You shouldn't have too much trouble there.

"The next bit is going to be harder. If you're going to be partners, you have be on equal footing. When you meet her next meet her eyes, talk firmly--no stuttering, consistent pace. You can be quiet if you like. Find out her name, then ask for her real name as a sign of faith. Offer your own in return. Tell her that you'd like to take her to a good restaurant you know once she's free to leave the Red.

"And Kou... be careful. The Hyades are still Players of a sort, and their lot is crueler than most. They're as dangerous as they are beautiful, and they're the loveliest creatures I've ever seen. That's a warning, not discouragement. Yours shouldn't hurt you, but the others have their champions as well and the one I know rides a goddamn Corrector horse."

>>26673534
Fusion of a few different anime, with added consequences. If you thought Accel World needed to be less generic and C: The Money of Soul and Possibility Control needed to stop being so high concept you just about have it. Add Tony Taka art and you just about have it.

>>26673560
I'm working on something for a friend. I'll post it by the next thread

>>26673447
"Oh boy, this will require something WAY above normal love counceling."
"It's not that strange that you fell in love with one of them... they really are beautiful and bewitching beings."
"Though, you should klnow that you've basically agreed to be her representative in a Battle Royale of the strongest and most ruthless players."

>>26673638
Cheer up, its not all bad. She'll re-appear again, she has to. explain to him about the importance of our armour, and what the Hyades want. then shrug, and say we dont really know what the end of the game is, but maybe it will be something interesting.
"you hate this boring monotony of everyday life? would you rather fight for your life every second of every day? thats what i have to put up with. cheer up, spaghetti-san-think of these poor saps who merely exist from day to day

>>26673643
>>26673654
i thought i was the only guy still reading, you guys made me think i was all alone

>>26673643
>>26673654

It's a lot to take in, at once. Kouichi takes it...Stoically, which isn't the same thing as well. His eyes are rather more expressive than his face, however, and you get the feeling that he's biting down the urge to run.

Forever.

> "Yours shouldn't hurt you, but the others have their champions as well and the one I know rides a goddamn Corrector horse."

"Oh, god," Kouichi says, feelingly. "Not *him*."

>>26673662

You're not sure he agrees with that. Moving slowly - His shoulders sloping under a new burden - Kouichi sways to his feet, at your parting shot.

"I...try not to think about it at all," he admits, faintly - His steps pitching and rolling, as he grips the metal rung of the banister for support. Etiquette never quite relinquishes it's iron hold, however - He pauses, before he descends the steps (His lunch uneaten, too rattled to take the box with him.)

"I'll see you tomorrow, Anon," he says - 'If there is a tomorrow,' he doesn't say.

...He could stand to lighten up, you think.

(Continued)

>>26673727
"With a sharp enough blade I'd bet my armor you could take him. I think I can get you something that would help on that front."

>>26673727

> "With a sharp enough blade I'd bet my armor you could take him. I think I can get you something that would help on that front."

You're sure that he hears you - It checks him for a moment, but it seems fairly obvious he has other things on his mind.

The door's hinges creak, as it bangs behind him: His footsteps clattering down the steps, echoing tinnily in the stairwell.

Lunch will be over soon - And it with, the second half of the day, the half that tends to blur into indecipherability. The only question is...What will you do?

[ ] Contact the Black Tri-Stars.
[ ] Contact Argent Prominence.
[ ] Visit the Papillon.
[ ] Visit the Salvation Children's Home.

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26673775

(To clarify: You presently have insufficient allocated energies to take any substantial action in the Hollow Sun - Unless you want to change your hand-held equipment, which you can do 'off-screen'.

I'll write a more extensive guide for the Hollow Sun, so as to streamline the management of the area.)

>>26673775
Contact Argent. we need a sit-rep on the situation with the hive leading down... FOREVER
>>26673793
when will it be charged enough to give us something good?

>>26673775

> Visit the Papillion

Let's visit mio. The poor girl's been left out in the cold.

>>26673775
>[ ] Visit the Papillon.

We really haven't seen Mio for a while, and we still gotta figure out her damn power.

>>26673800

(In several days. The longer you wait, the more energy it amasses.)

>>26673775
Actually torn. Mio's been out of the loop for a while but the Salvation Children's Home has been screaming "plot relevant" for months now. Do we still have her number? If it's on the new phone we text her and make plans. If it's lost with the accursed device we visit her.

>>26673793
I'm aware. Was thinking it'd be something to after it's recharged, along with stamping our symbol on ever last Hellion and changing Hauravatat mk. II's name. I don't think something we capped like that gets to be called "perfect".

>>26673828

I think we don't have a phone at present. But yeah, let's just visit her anyway.

Yeah, visit Mio. She might be starting to get anxious.
But please don't raise anymore flags.

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>>26673800

It's a slightly circuitous route, to get in touch - It's impossible to find a payphone, nowadays. But a quick detour to the library - Or, more specifically, the library's computers - reveals a new e-mail...One bearing a very impressive Sterling Industries letterhead.

For an official e-mail, it says very little; Merely that your application has been approved, and that the necessary forms have been mailed to your address for collection.

You don't recall applying for anything.

>>26673894
>>26673819
>>26673813

The rest of the day passes without incident. It's the first day of the week, after all - There's plenty more where that came from. The remaining hours crawl by, and it's a distinct relief when the bell rings at last.

It's an odd feeling, visiting the Papillon again - So much has happened, in such a short time. You're fairly certain that Mio's shift is today, but...

Still, it's strangely reassuring to see the familiar pink highlights, the warm light radiating from within - Just barely hidden by the lacy drapes at the frosted window. Out here, it's slightly colder than before...Enough that your breath begins to smoke, as you turn your collar up for warmth.

This early in the week, the place isn't *that* crowded; The silver bell chimes as the door swings shut behind you, the climate-controlled warmth a welcome change from the chill outside.

"Ohayo, Mast - Oh..." Mio's friend - That cheerful girl who's name you could never *quite* remember - catches herself halfway through the greeting; Her brown eyes going so very, very wide, a *gasp* sawing from her throat - One hand going to her mouth, as she starts in surprise...Looking oddly guilty?

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26674001
hihi, is Mio around? i've been hospitalised, i want to apologise for not being around

>>26674001
"Hello Rena. Am I in trouble or is it Mio? My phone met a watery end so I've been out of touch."

>>26674001
"Yo. What, do I look like a ghost to you or something? Though, I guess that I wasn't that far from becoming one just recently."
"Something serious happen? Looking at you being so shocked makes even me worried."

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>>26674021
>>26674041

"R-right," Rena says, sounding a little nervous - She nods, but she's not really listening. Flustered, she colors slightly, taking refuge behind the counter. "Anon-kun, right? I'll just, erm..."

She glances past you - Before she can catch herself - and you follow her gaze.

Mio's silhouette - With those distinctive fox ears and fluffy tail - stands out, amid the distinctive black-and-white maid costumes the waitresses wear, blonde hair pinned back by a silver barrette. Her back's to you, her attention entirely focused on the customer she's tending to.

There's an odd sense of deja vu, as you take in the tableau. At a glance, he's older than you - Slightly taller, too, an easy smile on his face - With startlingly expressive eyes, blue flecked with green.

He's also holding Mio's hand.

His thumb traces a light circle against her palm, as he says something that makes her giggle - A faint flush in her cheeks, as Mio's slim fingers brush self-consciously through her silky hair. She looks embarrassed, but slightly pleased - Not quite pulling away.

From here, you can catch snatches of the conversation:

(Continued)

>>26674159
oooooooh. Drama, etc. Hecate, we apologise

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>>26674159
I've read enough of tale's quests to know where this is going.

>>26674159
Now I'm really torn.
If we let her go, we should check on the dude.
First of all, we need to know if he's a player.

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>>26674159

Gotta keep our calm....
Breathe in... Breathe out...

Whoa man, am i getting jealous.

>>26674159

"-lovely," he says. "...ever seen anyone quite so radiant."

"...ya-kun, t-that's..." Mio stammers - She nearly drops the menu she's holding, her fox-ears twitching in clear reflection of her agitation. "-very day?"

"If you like," he says, with a casual shrug - His gaze turning slightly quizzical, as he notices you at last. There's that odd sense of recognition, again...

Mio notices the shift in his attention - She turns, glancing over her shoulder...

"Oh-"

And she *does* drop the menu this time. "Jok...Anon-kun~!" Her eyes go wide - For an moment, she looks absolutely surprised - Then embarassed - then her lips curve in a sweet, vulnerable smile, as she takes a step towards you...

-Only to start, when she realizes he's still holding her hand.

Mio blushes - Her fox-ears pressing flat against her head - as she ducks her head, pulling her away as if she's been stung.

"Anon-kun, I..." she says - For a brief moment, she'd absolutely lit up when she saw you...Only to sober, just a little, as if suddenly aware where she was. Then, softly: "-when did you get here?"

She doesn't wait for you to answer - Concern flitting over her face. "-Your *hand*~!"

You don't have to look - From the spreading warmth, you can tell that the wound on your palm has broken open again.

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26674229
Goddamn it people.
Hey, mio. Oh, what's this? Crap! Hey, Rena, got any bandages or something I could grab off you? Use that as an excuse to sit down and get our head together

>>26674159

Wow, that's one good-looking guy.

>>26674229

I don't know what we should say, however, we should act as if nothing were bothering us. At all.

Try to come up with a lie to how we got that wound.

Don't ask her about the guy, she'll tell us eventually.

>>26674229
"Yo, nice to see you again."
Inquire Rena about bandages and a bit of alcohol if there is any. Give Mio a short smile, so as to dispel any concern and then sit down and work on the hand.
"No point in being hasty... at least for now."

>>26674229
>There's that odd sense of recognition, again...
Backroom.
Red World.

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>>26674255
>>26674267

"R-right~!" Mio says - Flustered, she glances back at you, then the customer...Hesitating, just for a moment, before she hurries off. You get the feeling she's glad to be away, at least for the moment - Even as you ease yourself into the nearest seat.

Your left hand is really throbbing. It feels like there's filaments of agony spreading out from your palm, through your wrist and down your arm - You're actually surprised that it hurts quite so much.

One-handed, you begin to pick at the bandages, a little clumsily - Unwinding the strips of linen, now blotchy with blood. It's an awkward process, with one hand - It's hard to do it gracefully at the best o-

"-Let me help."

"...ya-kun" grips your wrist, before you can pull away - Beginning to peel away the overlapping bandages, with an oddly practised delicacy. The stab wound is deep, but not large - It goes right through your palm, and out the other side.

He whistles, under his breath - Seemingly taken aback by the sight.

"Did you wrap this up yourself?" he asks, eyes slightly narrowed in concentration.

"When your sister gets back, I think I can do a better job."

[ ] "She's not my sister."
[ ] "...She's my girlfriend, actually."
[ ] "And you are?"
[ ] "You've done this before?"
[ ] "...I've seen you before, haven't I?"
[ ] "Keep your hands to yourself."
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26674311

No need to jump the gun just yet. But man, I am actually getting jealous.

>>26674368
And you are? Then drop into the red world, as this guy has the advantage over us currently

>>26674368

> [X] "...She's my girlfriend, actually."
> [X] "You've done this before?"

>>26674388

Vetoing this. We're not in the best condition to fight, and I want to know more about Mr. Smug.

>>26674368
No need to pop a vein, stay calm.
"Thanks. You seem quite experienced at this."
"Yeah, this morning"
Don't respond to the last statement.
"You are?"

>>26674368
"And you are?"

No need to rectify his mis-information on our standing in relation to her. We need to test him first.

By the way, where did Watashi go? I feel vulnerable.

>>26674368

> [X] "She's not my sister."
> [X] "...She's my girlfriend, actually."

Really, how dense do you have to be? She's clearly not our sister.

>>26674432
>>26674405
Let's NOT tell him our relationship just yet. That would give away our opinion and thoughts away. Best keep it civil for now.

>>26674443
Yeah, no need to antagonize the guy who's treating our wounds.
If he turns out to be an asshole, we go Red World EXEC_REND and fire a missile in his face if he isn't a player. If he is, we rip his face off.

>>26674473

> "Thanks. You seem quite experienced at this."

"I'd make a lousy doctor if I wasn't," he says, cheerily. "-First aid's one of the fundamentals, after all."

> "And you are?"

"Naoya," he says. "Naoya Shiga - Part-time student, full-time layabout." He doesn't laugh, but smiles at his own joke.

He cants his head to the side, his expression clouding over ever-so-slightly.

"-I'm sorry, but...Have we met before? You seem...familiar."

[ ] "Not that I recall."
[ ] "I was about to ask the same thing."
[ ] "I think so."
[ ] "I don't think so, actually."
[ ] "It depends. Where have you been, recently?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26674531
I think so. What have you been doing recently?

>>26674473
What if he's the guy who was Argents agent that swallower by the c'hauliflour?

>>26674531
"I had a similar thought, but can't say that I can recall anything concrete."

>>26674531
> "I was about to ask the same thing."

I bet we met in the Red World during a slaughter.
Let's hope he isn't the killer clown.

>>26674564

Fuck 'im. No-one flirts with our girlfriend.

>>26674580
Should we really care that much? Mio is a good girl, but the whole "lover" relationship was created due to a few idiots not knowing when to stop.
Getting too fixated on this may bite us on the ass.

>>26674580
But how long have we left Mio alone?
This MUST be a player by virtue of having player luck.

>>26674605
Especially as the girl that we are currently deceiving might be watching us. And there's the possibility of Hecate coming back.
Not to mention Natsumi. "I still love Hecate" is one thing. "I just found another girl that isn't you" would turn her insane.
And what if Asuna is creating killer paintings right now?

>>26674616
We've got really one "killer" harem right here.
Honestly, I'm just thinking of using this chance to steer away into more plot-related things and Kotone's route.

>>26674565
>>26674569

"Hmmm." He pauses to consider that, for a moment - Sounding distinctly dubious.

> What have you been doing recently?

"...Nothing special," Naoya says, his voice thoughtful. "-That is, nothing out of the ordinary." His brow furrows - "Not recently, anyway."

He shrugs, as if mulling it over - "I suppose it doesn't matter. Maybe if - Ah, there we go."

Mio's lifted the first aid kit right off the wall; The bright red plastic and white cross drawing some curious looks - The place is mostly empty - as she sets it down, hovering nervously at the table...As if not quite sure who to ask, first.

Naoya spritzes your hand with a little water, dabbing the wound with rolled-up cotton soaked in alcohol. "Apply pressure," he says; "...I'll pack it once the bleeding stops."

"-Will he be all right?" Mio asks, her voice anxious - "It's fine," Naoya offers, by way of reassurance - Canting his head to the side. "...We could use some hot water, though..."

And again she retreats; He watches her go, then turns back to you once she's out of earshot.

"You know..." Naoya muses aloud - "...Your sister really is very lucky. You're really fortunate, to have someone who cares so much about you."

[ ] "She's not my sister."
[ ] "She's my girlfriend, actually."
[ ] "What's it to you?"
[ ] "I'd rather not say."
[ ] "Hot water?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26674616

This guy rubs me the wrong way, somehow. I don't know why, but he annoys me.

I'm personally for Mio, however, so take that with a pinch of salt.

>>26674669
> "Not recently, anyway."
I guess he isn't the dude that we saved.


Can we even officially call Mio our girlfriend? The entire thing was kind of up in the air.

Anyway, "Hot water?"

>>26674669

(My apologies: Substitute 'lucky' for 'lovely'.)

>>26674669
"True. I guess I really am fortunate, in a way."
Grin a bit.
"By the way, what did you mean by that *Maybe if...*?"

>>26674679
>I don't know why, but he annoys me.
It's jealousy. It's what the girls feel whenever we have the rest of the harem around.

Which I consider to be very ironic after our behaviour.

>>26674669

> [X] "She's not my sister."
> [X] "She's my girlfriend, actually."

Let's be completely clear about that, so everyone knows where we stand.

>>26674684
>Can we even officially call Mio our girlfriend? The entire thing was kind of up in the air.
Good point. With how things went, nothing was ever ascertained. Might as well use that fact for now.

>>26674697

I'd rather not let it slide away like that. Mio clearly cares for us. That sounds too much like chickening out.

>>26674692
I veto this. We shouldn't tie ourself down with such a statement for now. I get a feeling that will lead to something bad.

>>26674669

> [X] "She's not my sister."

He's totally checking her out. I vote that we put a stop to that.

>>26674669
>"She's not my sister."

While marking our territory might be a little extreme (then again two alpha males vying for one female) we should at least make our position clear. Actually, the stranger thing is his apparent immunity to the wrongness aura Mio usually exudes.

"She's a had a bad lot in life and I just try to make it better. Excuse my rudeness, but what exactly are your intentions towards her?"

>>26674704
>>26674705
>>26674712
Nothing about her being our girlfriend.
Actually, let's allow him to live in his imaginary world.
Mio will be thankful.

>>26674669

This fucking guy.

> No, she's not my sister.
> "She's my girlfriend, actually."

I'm not letting us get NTR'ed.

>>26674724
We don't even fucking know if this is NTR.
Keep it civil. We have the power to murder him at any time.

>>26674669

Don't like where this is going. It's weirdly uncomfortable, honestly.

>[ ] "She's my girlfriend, actually."

>>26674724
>>26674742
Pipe down people. We can just wait for a while and he'll peacefully leave on his own. No reason to declare war and look like an idiot.

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>>26674752
Imagine how Mio would react to that phrase.
If our dick DOES win our, I vote for murdering him if Mio doesn't side with us. Because fuck you, we are insane.

>>26674752

We're hardly declaring war. It's close to the truth, if not the truth.

Ok, for all the "she's our girlfriend" people:
What the fuck are you expecting? She's just been extremely flirty and captivated with him and obviously knows that we don't like the truth.
If you actually tell him that she's our girlfriend, you will lose all ground because then Mio WILL have to admit that he is in fact her boyfriend. And then we are the evil guy for being deluded.
Learn to emotional warfare.

>>26674761
How about going for a more subtle form of insanity.
Give him a creepy grin and hollow every time he mentions Mio. No need to be offensive. Just being eerie as hell would be enough.

>>26674779

Too edgy.

>>26674773

You know, she did kiss us. I assume that she likes us, at the very least.

>>26674779
That's just making us the dick.
If we murder him, no one will know. Except for our deceived moon princess.

>>26674779
That's just being a passive-aggressive dick, not creepy. Let's find out his deal, and murder him later if need be

>>26674794
That means jack shit.
She probably thought that we forgot her or something. Or maybe she had love on first sight with this dude.
SOMETHING is there to explain this.

Actually, another possibility might be that she's playing the escort for whatever reason. But I don't think the situation is as severe as that.

>>26674773
>>26674794
I'm expecting a twist with Mio being brainwashed or somehow losing her memory due to something we missed.
Best play it safe for now.

(There seems to be a slight majority in favour of the second option, gentlemen.)

> "Hot water?"

He smiles, just a little. "...Sorry, it's an old trick. Gives the patient's family something to do, so they don't worry so much."

> "She's not my sister."

"Oh?" Naoya gives you a knowing look...One that makes you wonder if he was just feeling you out before.

"I didn't think she was, not really. Still...It couldn't hurt to hope."

> "She's my girlfriend, actually."

"Really?" He gives you a quizzical glance, as he moves his hand away from yours - His fingers drumming lightly against the table. "-I'd have thought she'd have mentioned you," he says, in that same casual tone of voice; With a light shrug, as if it doesn't particularly matter either way.

Very deliberately, he looks you up and down. Naoya doesn't say anything, but you can feel the query in his quiet-but-unwavering gaze.

"Well, either way...She *is* very lovely. Radiant, actually - But I'm just repeating myself, now."

You flex your fingers. It actually does feel more comfortable.

> "By the way, what did you mean by that *Maybe if...*?"

"...That? Oh, I was just wondering if you were - Maybe - a friend of a friend." He gives you a wan smile. "-Now, though...I see I was mistaken."

> "She's a had a bad lot in life and I just try to make it better. Excuse my rudeness, but what exactly are your intentions towards her?"

"'Intentions'?" Naoya echoes, canting his head to the side; "...I don't follow. You're being awfully serious, all of a sudden."

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26674808
>losing her memory
Unlikely.
She knows that this situation can escalate. Thus she knows that there is/was something between us.

But coercion might be possible. Though she seems to cheerful for that.

>>26674816
Did we just jump the gun?
Yes, we really are just like the girls.

>"Then what are you to her?"

>>26674816
Damnit people, now we seem like an obsessive dick.
Don't worry, I'm just trying to look out for her. Her past has had things that she shouldn't have to have dealt with, so I try to protect her. Switch to red world then

>>26674827
Can we please stop revealing her past to this random dude?

A Red World switch might be appropriate after the next post, though.

>>26674827

There's really no reason to switch. We're not actually in any danger. It's just one guy who might be out-swagging us.

>>26674816
Well, damn. Once again the quest was hijacked. Bah, whatever.
"Well, to put it bluntly, I'm just curious about your relationship."
Switch to Red World.

...there is no way this will end well now.

>>26674827

Vetoing this for now.

>>26674816

> "You seem to know her well. I'm just curious."

>>26674847
Who seems mysteriously familiar, who we've never seen before

>>26674816

It's weird. I actually kind of like him. I certainly don't want him snatching Mio away from us, but he seems pretty cool for a random guy.

I say we hold off doing the whole HENSHIN thing for now. Plenty of voters here all of a sudden.

>>26674816
Jesus Christ, why do we act like a dick to him?

>>26674879
>Plenty of voters here all of a sudden.
That always happens when the thread is suddenly about the girls.
That's what raised all Mio flags in the first place.

I also feel that he's a decent guy. Even if slightly dickish. He's testing us just as much as we are testing him.
But he has more composure.

>>26674888
Because we are no better than generic tsundere female #500.
Or, in other words, the whiteknights hijacked the thread. Again. And Watashi is taking a break.

>>26674816
Give him a grin, play it cool.

"A guy you don't know is being awfully friendly with your girlfriend. You can't tell me you wouldn't at least be curious as to who he is and why he's buttering her up. Not trying to start anything, just getting facts straight."

Also veto on transforming. Now is not the time to be roboting.

>>26674816
"Well, it doesn't matter. I'm just glad to see more people with whoom Mio is on good terms."

>>26674911
I'm starting to feel like OP is going crazy from laughing.
Do you really want us to talk like a generic clubber and possibly ride even deeper into the shit that is "Mio is our girlfriend"?

I will laugh if she comes and then both of them tell us that they actually are a couple.

> "Well, to put it bluntly, I'm just curious about your relationship."

"'Relationship'?" he echoes - Now both his eyebrows go up.

> "Then what are you to her?"
> "You seem to know her well. I'm just curious."

"There's...Not much to tell, actually," he says. Naoya turns his head, glancing out of the window. "-I was just walking past, and I thought Earl Grey tea and petit fours sounded nice."

He shrugs, an expressive gesture. "...Eri-chan keeps me coming back. It's something to appreciate."

>>26674911

He smiles - Just a little. You'd swear there was a twinkle in his eye.

"See, now - Now, you're being honest with me. And with yourself, for that matter."

Naoya's - rather critical - gaze focuses on you, now; Blue-green eyes on yours. You get a feeling he's amused, though his face stays composed.

"Honestly, I was just being polite. I certain didn't know you were, ah...'in the picture'. I apologize if I've given any offense, though."

>>26674923

"Her name's Mio~?" Naoya inquires - Mulling over it, with a glance towards the counter. "-I didn't know that."

He looks over at you again - "I have to say...You're pretty interesting, yourself. What's your story~? How does, well..." He waves in your general direction - "...Meet someone like her~?" There's an almost teasing note to his voice, mildly envious but playful at once.

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26674926
Only put the girlfriend bit because we seemed to have put it out there already. Just trying to get us back on better footing. And if she is going out with ya-kun, then we have one less problem. Mio doesn't seem to be the type to two time a guy, but the girl is starved for affection.

Lets just get our facts straight and be as forthwith as possible. We do care about Mio if nothing else.

>>26674971
...I feel like we've just been fucked over in 7 different ways.

>>26674987
How the fuck could you forget about what kind of establishment this is.

Thank you everyone for being a dick to a customer. Mio will not appreciate it.

>>26675002
To be fair, i was one of those who vetoed that.

>>26675002
>>26675010
I vote Red World for when he leaves.
Just to check. Mio is a player magnet, after all.

>>26674971
Long story, misadventures aplenty. Smile, and ask what his unprofessional opinion on our damned hand

>>26674971
"Sorry for being so confrontational. I've had a horrible week.
How's my hand, by the way?"

>>26675002
Also to be fair are Rena and Mio's reactions. They seem to think she was doing something wrong or at least apologetic.

>>26674971
"Bit of a long story. Suffice to say it involved a tennis ball and being in the wrong place at the right time."

>>26675080
>Also to be fair are Rena and Mio's reactions. They seem to think she was doing something wrong or at least apologetic.
Everything will clear up once we get to talk to her.

>>26674971
"Huuuh... so you say, but I get the nagging feeling that by calling her *lovely*, you mean a lot more than just appearance and mannerisms."
Grin
"By the way, why did you hope that we were siblings?"
"Though you call me interesting, from my point of view, you seem like quite the peculiar character yourself. You have give a strange impression of an enigma. Of course, i don't mean to be rude, by saying that."

Let's steer the talk into a topic that doesn't directly concern Mio.

>>26675044

"Oh, we've all been there," Naoya says, waving it away. "-Don't sweat it."

>>26675119

> "By the way, why did you hope that we were siblings?"

"Ah, it was just a joke of mine." His look, however, speaks volumes. He's clearly wondering if you're dense.

> Of course, i don't mean to be rude, by saying that."

"None taken."

>>26675027
>>26675080

"Honestly? Keep it clean, keep changing the bandages, and you should be all right."

His brow furrows, slightly - "...How *did* it happen, anyway? It's a clean through-and-through..."

A pause. "-You're not in construction, are you? Because I'd say - If I had to hazard a guess - that it was caused by a nail-"

A tinny burst of music interrupts his words. Naoya winces - "Hate these things," he says - "Sorry, I have to take this."

He lifts his phone to his ear - The voices rendered ineligible, over the line.

"It's me. Uh-huh. Yes, it's ready."

He checks his watch.

"-Let's say...Thirty minutes? I can leave whenev - Now? Okay. Right, I'll catch you soon."

There's a click, as he cuts the connection, folding his phone away into his coat pocket. His expression's slightly embarassed - "My apologies, but...My friends are waiting for me. But - I hope to speak with you again."

He smiles, just a little. "-I don't get to use all that book learning *too* often, after all." He offers his left hand, for a shake - "...I suppose we'd be seeing more of each other?"

[ ] "What do you mean?"
[ ] "I suppose so."
[ ] "I hope not."
[ ] "Leaving so soon?"
[ ] Shake his hand.
[ ] Shake his other hand.
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>26671493
Of course, a Joker Quest just when I have to go to a dinner party.

Good luck anon, and remember that Argent can be trusted. Don't let your paranoia sully your chances of surviving.

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>>26675199
>Don't let your paranoia sully your chances of surviving.
You will fall out of your chair when you read the thread.

Anyway, our left hand is the unharmed one?
Then shake with the other.
I'm not sure if we should do a "I suppose" or "What do you mean?".

>>26675176
>Shake his hand

"Going to be a regular here? The Papillon does certainly have its charm. It was a pleasure, and sorry if we got off on the wrong foot."

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>>26675228
THIS IS WHY I CAN NEVER GO TO DINNER PARTIES

>>26675274

tl;dr - SUDDENLY NTR

>>26675259
But we need to talk to Mio on that. If he tries to purposely seek her out just to piss us off, we'll need to beat him up in the Red. Not kill him, just drain his luck.
Also, I wouldn't be surprised if she heard the "she's our girlfriend" line. Fuck yeah for even more clusterfuck!

>>26675176
Shake his right hand.
>[x] "I suppose so."
Wait until he leaves and tak a moment to look through the Red World.

>>26675294
Yeah, take a glimpse when he's out the door.

>>26675259
>>26675228
Note that our left hand is the injured one.

>>26675176

> [X] I suppose so.

God damn it, we're going to have to keep an eye on Mio, aren't we?

Why can't I hold all these bitches?

Seriously, though, we should probably leave it for now. This is going to be one awkward conversation

>>26675306
Fuck him.
He's definitely evil.
Take a look in the Red World. Prepare to beat him up later on.

>>26675306
Ah, right. Offer him our good hand instead of our injured one.

By the by, does anyone recall what the guy with the Hyades at Naraka looks like? Cause I'm getting the sinking feeling we may have met him there and he might be our buddy Kraken...

>>26675320
>>26675294

dese guys know what they are talking about. Problem is, there is always something that might happen and keep us in the Red World.

> [X] Shake his other hand.

Naoya looks expectant, then slightly embarrassed as you switch hands. "-It slipped my mind, sorry."

He shakes, anyway - His grip's a firm one. He's surprisingly strong, for someone his height.

> [X] "I suppose so."
>>26675259

"Indeed. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance." He dips his head in a slight bow - Taking a few steps back, before turning to leave. He pauses to say something to Rena; Something that makes her glance over in your direction, with anxious eyes - Reaching for the door-

>>26675299
>>26675294

The world flickers, goes red.

STAGE: PANDEMONIUM

You stand on an ever-shifting landscape, looking out across the crimson city. Once, there was the great, enclosed dome of the Armoury - Now, there's only the iron buildings of Dis in the distance, overlapping with the mutable chaos of the Zone.

Your red armour drinks in the light, as you turn a slow circle. For a moment, you're sure you see something from the corner of your eye...But no, it's just the ebb and flow of the grey mists, blurring in a fog - Parting before you in a rippling wake, like the Red Sea before Moses.

You're almost certain-

...You wait, but there's nothing.

As you shift back, Naoya pauses at the door.

He stops, hesitating.

Turns.

(Continued)

>>26675367
>our buddy Kraken...
Did we stock up the Calamari tools?

>>26675385
>"-It slipped my mind, sorry."
Yeah, because shaking someone's left hand is what everyone does. Right?

Seems like the white knight army was right in disliking him.

And I feel like the dude has some kind of cloaking device.

>>26675385

In five quick steps, he crosses back to the table - Reaching for his wallet. Paper shuffles, as he lays out a sheaf of notes; "...Almost forgot," Naoya admits, with an embarassed little smile. "-That should settle the bill...With something for you, too. My treat."

He tips his head, in a little bow - Smoothening down his coat, to drape over his shoulders. He's frowning, slightly - His brow furrowed, in "I can't believe I missed that~" self-consciousness...

But he waves to you, all the same - His left hand raised - before the door swings shut behind him. You see him linger, for a moment longer...Looking back over his shoulder, as if there's something he can't quite put his finger on...

But then, with a sweep of his coat, he shrugs - And vanishes into the crowd.

As he said: There's always a next time.

JOKER QUEST

EPISODE 56

TO BE CONTINUED

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>>26675423

(Gentlemen: I'd love to continue, but I'm utterly exhausted. Sorry for the late start - I had a family emergency to attend to, early on.

However, you've been an excellent audience - As always, good night and God bless.

I hope you had fun - And to catch you next time.)

>>26675386

Or maybe the dude is, you know, LEFT-HANDED.

>>26675448
Even left-handed people are conditioned to use their right hand.
Imagine if everyone initiated a handshake with their dominant hand. Total chaos.

>>26675423
He definitely seems to have *something* supernatural about him.

>>26675471

I get a feeling that people are thinking too much into it. The whole thing with him was basically a series of false starts, and people going berserk.

I'd rather keep him away from mio, tho.

>>26675498

We really ended up on the back foot, didn't we? It's like the whole thing got reversed when we were talking to naoya.

God damn it. I sort of dislike that guy, but not personally.

Not to mention, this makes for the second person to be attracted to mio. There's something REALLY odd about that girl.

>>26675448
>>26675423
You know, Old Joker always drew his Magnumwith his left....

>>26675591
But the question is why he implied that he DID get involved with unusual stuff some time ago.

If he was the Red Joker... Well, that would be weird.

>>26675591

I think that Old Joker is very definitely dead. Who the new guy is, I honestly have no idea.

>>26674159

Holy shit, you would not believe how much this pissed me off.

>>26675755
Now you know what our harem feels.
Learn from this experience.

>>26675831

IT IS NOT A GOOD PAIN.

>>26675423

So what do you guys make of him? Total asshole, or well-meaning dude? At this point, it's basically 50-50 for either.

I'm personally surprised that there isn't more support for mio.

>>26676077

Unfortunately, she's actually the second girl we met. I get the feeling that if Hecate didn't turn up to be the love interest, Kotone or Mio would most likely have won.

>>26676077
>I'm personally surprised that there isn't more support for mio.
How long have you been following the story?
Hecate is priority. Mio is secondary as long as the Hecate situation isn't clear.
If Mio finds a guy who will treat her better than we do?
I'm all for it.
If he's an asshole, we'll kill him, though.

It's not fair to keep her in our hand when we are aiming for another girl.
And then there's our omnipotent stalker. She might become dangerous for the harem.

>>26676181

From the Armory Guardian onwards. What I'm saying is, we're dealing with a sweet, charming girl who absolutely adores us, but labours under an unjust curse. It's hard to put her secondary.

>>26676181

My bet is that it's part of the slow process of serial escalation. Things have become increasingly difficult, the more we progressed. Why shouldn't the real world be the same?

>>26676334

That hits a bit too close to home, god damn it.

>>26675292
Not necessarily. Maid cafes are similar to host/ess clubs. The maids aren't just the wait staff, they play and flirt with the customers as part of their jobs. It's not worth getting upset over unless we're serious about making Mio RJ's girlfriend for real. And even then it's her job.

>>26676954
You sure picked a time to show up.

>>26677103
Can't spend all day on 4chan. Still, things actually went pretty well. Would have advocated more trolling him but that's about it.

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Goddammit people. I wish I wasn't unconscious for most of this thread so I could have told you idiots to not pull the "insecure bastard" card on this random guy. Worried about cheating and/or NTR? Well, you should be. We keep her out of the loop, we worry her, and we tell her nothing. We disappear for a long time, and then we randomly come back and attempt to mark our territory in the most blatant jackass way.

Disregarding the whole girlfriend and is she or isn't she thing because it's plagued by morons on both sides, this is what drives ALL relationships apart, not just will we shag soon or won't we relationships. Also Mio works at a maid cafe, innocent flirting is pretty much in her job description next to having cute outfits that would look better on the floor.

Frankly, I hope this Naoya guy isn't Red World so y'all can't just instantly murder him to death and then write him off as a jackass who needed to go.

>>26678689
>Also Mio works at a maid cafe, innocent flirting is pretty much in her job description next to having cute outfits that would look better on the floor.
You can attribute this to everyone going mad the moment they saw a hint of NTR. It's also possible that a few voters didn't read all the threads.
Personally, I just forgot what kind of place this exactly was.

But I absolutely agree with you that this was full-on asshole mode. I was on the side of being careful, because everyone was getting paranoid just by implications. But the whiteknights got active and instantly started spraying their piss everywhere on the basis that a guy can never have enough girls.
This kind of thing is the perfect breeding ground for an abusive relationship - Ignore her, never trust her, then mark your territory and then cry when she cheats. And occasionally manipulate her because of your insecurities.

>>26678689

Yeah. Damn I wish I'd caught this thread sooner so I could weigh in on the side of not being a fucking horndog with a chip on his shoulder.

I like this quest, but the fucking voters swarm to make him into a disgusting little two-timing shit every chance they get.

>>26678689
>>26678758
It is strange how every time something comes up with Mio we have a swarm of voters. But we'll just have to weather it as best we can. I mean we salvaged this encounter pretty well all things considered, even if we were a bit of a dick.

I do think we should make sure Mio doesn't feel like this is her fault or anything. As >>26678785 pointed out that lies the road of an unhealthy relationship. No accusations, an apology for being a caveman about things and for ignoring her. See if she'd be up to do something together when her shift ends.

>>26679776

Meant to say this guy. >>26678758, don't know why it links to a different thread...

And you people wonder why Joker Quest is unpopular...

>>26679832
I rather wonder why everyone jumps on the bandwaggon whenever a female character appears.
I would prefer if people who actually follow the quest would be voting.

>>26679870
You know exactly why.

Its samefaggotry.

>>26679881
Well, we can't exactly force all voters to use trips.
Otherwise all of /tg/ will hate the quest.


Still, I don't really get the hate. It's not like we are playing a dickgirl bimbo or having anything resembling Strike Witches or Mahou Shonen Quest. It's not like we just collect bitches and do nothing else.
There's an actual plot and the girls are just part of it. And the interactions between them actually matter.

>>26680091
The obvious answer to root them out is Shadow Quest voting.

>>26680329
What does Shadow Quest do?

>>26680365
See >>26679924
Basically 4chan has a spam filter that prevents you from posting the exact same thing twice in five minutes. This makes this particular voting method samefag proof.

>>26680425
The only issue is that it prevents elaborate posts.

>>26680454
Which is why the vote is usually called just before a post is made by the QM.

>>26680329
Probably wouldn't help. There's very rarely direct voting in this quest, instead anons make suggestions on what to say and OP uses the ones that don't contradict or incite bloody screaming.