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Previous Thread:

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/34784675/

Archive:

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Joker%20Quest

Equipment FAQ: (UPDATED)

http://pastebin.com/L70vey6Q

Player List:

http://pastebin.com/rRSM6LgW

Episode Guide (All credit to Watashiwa):

http://pastebin.com/DNGtTt04

Yui IF scene (Adult content):

http://pastebin.com/8CSEVSXB

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JokerQuestOP

Recap: You are ANON, the RED JOKER. In our last installment, your time at the Cultural Festival was interrupted by a grueling battle against ADAMANT AEGIS.
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>>34880963

HOLLOW SUN: 83.4% (UPDATED)

http://pastebin.com/sgU83wrK

RESEARCH:

[X] RESEARCH: ASSAULT HARDSHELL
[X] DIRAC TRANSMITTER I
[X] MASS DRIVER
[X] SOLARIS CHARGING MATRIX
[X] INDUCTION BLASTERS
[X] DISINTEGRATOR CANNON
[X] MACHINE CANNON
[X] MICRO-SCALE SUSPENSORS
[X] POSITRON LANCE

RESEARCH COMPLETE:

[X] ENDOSTEEL INTERNAL STRUCTURE (Hellions are more manoeuvrable.)
[X] SCRANDER PROPULSION SYSTEM (Hellions now have Jet Scranders.)

VOID ANCHORS:

ORIGINAL HIVE
THE TRIBUNAL
NARAKA
THE VAULT
TUSITA

HOLDING: 1

RED COMET GUIDE:

http://pastebin.com/LJAfQmXy

UPDATES:

- ABRUPTION JETS added to Equipment Guide.
- TEMPEST SCRANDER upgrades unlocked.
>>
Hello OP. How's your week been ?
>>
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Awwww yeah, its joker time.

I've been saving some pictures for you!
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>>34880973
You're missing the Distortion Cannon research, OP. Also Scranders aren't marked in the HS guide and you forgot to mention that Tempests are available now to research.
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>>34881033
>>
>>34880973
Vote for unlocking Lucifer Bits
>>
>>34880973
You know, we should really get around to grinding Legion Armiger's essence to see what happens.

Also might as well get the other 3 Hellion types researched.

[ ] RESEARCH: HELIOS MATRIX (Unlocks Helios-class Sniper units.)
[ ] RESEARCH: SUPERHEAVY CHASSIS (Unlocks Mastema-class Destroyer units.)
[ ] RESEARCH: TEMPEST HARDSHELL (Unlocks Tempest-class Air Superiority Units.)
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>>34881035
>>
>>34881048

Seconded. Glad someone else besides me remembered the discussion last thread!
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This one, because its pretty in general
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Evening OP. How've you been?

>>34880963
>Recap: You are ANON, the RED JOKER. In our last installment, your time at the Cultural Festival was interrupted by a grueling battle against ADAMANT AEGIS.
Guess I missed a thread. Sorry that I missed Adamant Aegis, I'd been looking forward to seeing if he measured up. How did it go?

And that is a lot of weapon research.
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And because hey, while pretty is on the table, why can't we get some angel wings and a paintjob.
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>>34881084
Thirded.
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>>34881102
Pretty straightforward. Kicked his ass despite some powerful opposition, with a hiccup at the end due to some misinterpretation of the verbal cues used in describing the effects of our attacks on his shield. I reeeeeally want to see what he ends up as in the grinder.
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back to our regularly scheduled angelmechs
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>>34881102
>How did it go?
His shield stored any attack it was hit with. That's really all that needs to be said.
>>
>>34881126
>>34881084
>>34881048
>Vote for unlocking Lucifer Bits

And fourthed. Guess I was persuasive!
Lets get these already. Thanks for actually listening, guys.
>>
>>34881102
Brutal, gave an actual fight and more than lived up to his name.

Also, it felt like OP could have fleshed out his character pretty easy if the right cards were played in the story.
>>
>>34881102
Horrible, we almost got our clocks cleaned. We won, but barely.
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>>34881139

We got plenty of energy so I also vote for Lucifer bits.
>>
>>34881084
The discussion was pretty pervasive in the last thread. Hard to not remember it.
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>>34881130

Any art you need in general, JQOP? i was sad to hear about the hard drive crash :(
>>
>>34881112
Isn't that Flare Oriole?

>>34881138
So, like the Sinistral but with the ability to send it back?

...Let me guess: You led with the Tau Gun and nearly had your shit wrecked right off the bat.

Did we at least level up?
>>
>>34881156
No. We used Chain Mines.
>>
>>34881156
>>34881163
The Tau Gun was also used, remember the random explosions near the start?
>>
>>34881163
At least there was some thought behind that, and it did do some damage. Tau gun was the real shitkicker.
>>
>>34881102
Well as you can see the guy who didn't understand how the Lucifer Bits worked is back and continues to not have any idea what he's talking about, but this time he started samefagging early.

>>34881156
Actually yeah, but the problem was that people used the chain mine later on.
>>
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>>34881156
>...Let me guess: You led with the Tau Gun and nearly had your shit wrecked right off the bat.

We... actually did! Acutally, i've stil got it open. Lemme fish it up...


>>34792868
>>RED JOKER LEVEL UP
>>http://pastebin.com/8t4VJxLQ

I think current votes are for.....
Major Support:
Limiter Attunement, Cobalt Booster,

Minor Support:
Meter Boost to start a fight with tier 2 unlocked
Charging Elements - but we have a midas arm now.


frankly, I don't care about any of it - i'd rather get on with the quest and not shit talk upgrades.

Pic Related, the monovisor says so.
>>
>>34881193
I can guarantee that not all the votes are samefagged. Besides, we've got a shitload of charge. It won't be the worst decision we've made if it turns out to be a bad one.
>>
>>34881193
Actually, its just me.

Sorry, but enough with the namecalling. Give other people a chance in the spotlight.
>>
>>34881202
Cobalt Booster seems like a really useful option for sure.
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And the carnifex-mode one you liked a while ago
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>>34881193
Don't be a dick.

>>34881202
>RED JOKER LEVEL UP
Very nice. Limiter Atunement has my vote. Did anything happen with Daegal?

>>34881207
It's the only direct upgrade Relic in the vault. We really could do worse. I'm going to read the last thread and go over the Hollow Sun changes before I commit to anything, but I'd like to remind people that we talked a while ago about doing a few threads where we threw out build priorities and just went after what looked fun.

I'll probably be voting for Ophanim.
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>>34881035

(My apologies, I'll fix it in a moment.)

>>34880998

(Ironically, my weekdays are a little less busy than my weekends.)

Sometimes, in the span of nothingness - In the brief infinity that comes, as one world folds into the next - you ask yourself: Where will it be this time?

Your own bed? A classroom, somewhere, another interminable lesson broken only by the end-of-day bell? Or will it be on the beach of black sand, where acid waves lap eternally against the surf?

Part of you will always be there. Part of you will always lie on black glass sand, while acid chews upon your flesh.

You open your eyes to the soft light of the early afternoon, the clink of spoons against fine china, the fragrance of fresh-brewed tea and the melting taste of cake. Your fingers brush against a spotless white tablecloth, the low murmur of the Festival never far away - A heartening sound, a reassuring sound, as the world goes by beyond the cafe's tinted windows.

"Anon-kun?"

Mio's voice is softly intimate, like a secret - Across the table, she smiles, her head canted ever-so-slightly to the side. There's a napkin folded on her lap, which she smoothes down with slim fingers; The silver barette in her hair catching the warm light, as her tresses sway against her cheeks. There's a little box - Velvet, fastened with a ribbon - set ahead and to her side, her free hand resting lightly against it as she notices your shift in focus...A soft giggle teased from her lips.

"-Am I boring you? Ah, that's no good..." she muses aloud, a little flash of mischief to her green eyes, as her cheek comes to rest against her palm - "...I'll ask you something instead~"

(Continued)
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>>34881156
>Isn't that Flare Oriole?

Dunno. That name doesn't register at all, but i'm assuming its anime stuff. I just save things
that twinge my thematics.

>>34881263
>I'm going to read the last thread and go over the Hollow Sun changes before I commit to anything
Most sensible thing I've read all thread.
>>
>>34881263
>Ophanim

Wait... did we get the raptor?
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>>34881278

(Gentlemen, be aware that you've levelled up from the last session:

http://pastebin.com/8t4VJxLQ )

"-Am I boring you? Ah, that's no good..." she muses aloud, a little flash of mischief to her green eyes, as her cheek comes to rest against her palm - "...I'll ask you something instead~"

A glance at your watch - You've been gone for half an hour, at most.

"Ummmm...Where did you learn to shoot like that~?" Mio offers - A kind of honest amazement shading her words. She's proud of you, and it's hard for her to hide it; The slight flush to her cheeks ever-present, now, as she leans forward slightly - Intent on your answer.

"Even Kazuya-kun was surprised...You were really, really good."

[ ] (Indicating the box) "-Aren't you going to open that?"
[ ] "Practice."
[ ] "...I just play a lot of games, that's all."
[ ] "I've always had a talent for it."
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34881259

More lite-armor. Things could stand to use less katana though. I know metal gear rising just came out, but there are other weapons.
>>
>>34881263
I've gotta go do shit now because JQ runs during work, but I have to throw in a vote for the Ophanim too.
>>
>>34881314
>"Practice."
>(Indicating the box) "-Aren't you going to open that?"
As for upgrades, I'll vote for the Cobalt Booster.
>>
>>34881314

I say we upgrade the Cobalt Booster.
>>
>>34881315
That one's kind of Mass Effecty.
>>
>>34881314
>[ ] Free

".... The other side. I wanted to show it to you enough that I didn't really talk very well about it. No pressure, just..."
"Don't you want to see what's in the box?"
>>
>>34881339
Nah, too industrial. Seems like it's inspired by modern exoskeletons.
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>>34881339

Yeah we're getting into territory of not-quite-off.

Like, oh, this stuff - while cool and tech-angel-ey, its not quite....
>>
>>34881314
>[x ] (Indicating the box) "-Aren't you going to open that?"
>[ x] "...Practice."
>>
>>34881341
>So we're having this nice date but I'm going to vaguely imply the existence of an alternate reality.
Let's not
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>>34881287
>i'm assuming its anime stuff
New faction leader replacing... Agite Striker, I think. Hers was the well-trained squad.

>>34881300
Nah. I want both, and there's always been more interest in the motorcycle. Probably easier to get interest in in if we're just voting on the cool factor.

>>34881035
>>34881278
We started the Distortion Cannon? Very nice.

>>34881314
Limiter, as I said before.
>[X] (Indicating the box) "-Aren't you going to open that?"
>[X] "I've always had a talent for it."
"I stopped aiming with my hand and started aiming with my heart. And I wanted to show Renji up."

Too much Dark Tower? Hm. So we went to Utopia Ruler's game, eh? I'll start on the last thread.
>>
>>34881314
>[X] "I've always had a talent for it."

>>34881382
Pretty sure that Joker's forgotten the face of his father.
>>
>>34881373

She already knows, though, anon. She knows.

As you said - we're on a date. Relationships are built on trust, and answering honestly shows it. We just need to make it about her, so she'll accept it as part of us, not something thats out there and scary

I.... its ballsy! I say go for it!
>>34881341
This, but instead at the end
"I had a suspicion what's inside would be good... and I thought it would make you smile."
>>
>>34881416
Just doesn't really seem like an appropriate point to start talking about it.
>>
>>34881382

Its gonna be expensive though - because we need a vehicle bay expansion first, though.

Unless we can get it and store it, but only have one in the 'teleport ready' slot

I think I'd rather have the armory guardian ready to drop; but on the other hand being able to get to remote red world locations *fast* would do a lot to help us scout and explore faster.
>>
>>34881423

I'm not advocating launching into it though - just putting a point out there, and letting her respond -

I figure a more subtle approach that may bait her curiosity instead of scare her may work better, and i'd put dollars to dimes that JQop would be appreciative of the soft-sell, and an actual character-building conversation - or the possibility of one
>>
>>34881435

HOLLOW SUN: 68.4%

RELIC UNLOCKED: LUCIFER BITS

Substantially larger than your existing Interceptors, Lucifer-pattern Bits rely on an advanced photonic laser array - Modelled after Hellion weaponry - instead of the compact particle emitters utilized in your Rifle Bits.

With each Bit featuring a built-in charging core, it appears that the Lucifers can muster a significantly higher energy output than your current Interceptors. According to the schematics, the Bits will progress through three stages of alignment while in use, before the optimal configuration is achieved.

STAGE 1:
After their initial activation, Lucifer Bits remained attached to the user, accumulating charge from the reactor.

STAGE 2:

Upon detachment, the Bits begin to discharge high-precision lasers until prismatic alignment is achieved.

STAGE 3:

At full prismatic alignment, the Bits deploy their flux field projectors, continuously releasing searing beams of energy - Exponentially more powerful than the previous stage.

> [X] FRAME UPGRADE
- [X] COBALT BOOSTER

Your COBALT BOOSTER capacity has now been increased to 170%. Additionally - Due to synchronization with the GNOSIS ENGINE - you constantly regenerate COBALT BOOSTER each round. (Previously, the COBALT BOOSTER's energy reserves only regenerated when not in use.)

(Continued)
>>
>>34881382

Fuck it, I'll back the Limiter. We've been putting it off forever. Literally every time it comes up, we're like 'man we can level up faster!' and get something shinier.

I wish we had an option for Daegal, though. Maybe limiter attunement will help it grow, since its weaved in with our essence system now?
>>
>>34881416
>"I had a suspicion what's inside would be good... and I thought it would make you smile."
This line's quite good. I think that now's not the time to start Serious Red World Talks though, it's a bit of a non-sequitur and we don't know who might be around to overhear.

>>34881424
We can buy it, but we can't summon it from and send it back to the Sun without a vehicle bay. Seeing as that's it's own research, we'd could start it this session, but I'd rather not since Ophanim needs a bit of work before we bring it out to play. I want it just to have it, really.
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>>34881447
>RELIC UNLOCKED: LUCIFER BITS
>>
>>34881447
Uhhh... OP, I'm okay with the Bits but we WEREN'T near a decision about the booster.
>>
>>34881460
More votes than anything else so far with three.
>>
>>34881460

No, we were. We use a LOT of Booster, and it's an exceedingly good choice.
>>
>>34881460
Probably counted votes from the last thread
>>
>>34881471
That's literally never happened though, and if that's so it's in incredibly poor form.
>>
>>34881450
>it's a bit of a non-sequitur and we don't know who might be around to overhear.

Then lean into her ear and whisper it into her ear, like the secret it is!
and kiss her on the cheek, because date

>>34881447
Can we get meter costs for the bits? And maybe artifact module unlocks for them?

>>34881460
I know, but.... 10% per round! 10% per round! Forever! I was kinda hoping for limiter, but this exceeded my expecations.

Anon, with exec_power_transfer, we get 10% meter per round.

Just saying. If we just use 10% booster as meter per round, we can SKYROCKET our meter gain and unlock high tier weapons fast because we're not ~spending~ any meter.
>>
>>34881484
>with exec_power_transfer, we get 10% meter per round
Fuck, that's great.
>>
>>34881484
>Anon, with exec_power_transfer, we get 10% meter per round.
Just going to say it doesn't work like that. You don't add to the meter pool, you can just use Power Transfer to pay for meter costs. It specifically can't be use for unlocking.
>>
>>34881447
>>34881460
Poor form op.
>>
>>34881484
>Then lean into her ear and whisper it into her ear, like the secret it is!
>>34881450
>This line's quite good. I think that now's not the time to start Serious Red World Talks though, it's a bit of a non-sequitur and we don't know who might be around to overhear.
>>34881416
>>34881373
>>34881341

awwwwwright, I kinda wanna see romantic joker now.

She doesn't know we were listening when she poured our heart out! lets tease her relentlessly.

>>34881493
>>34881484
>>34881498
Poorly worded.
Its fake meter we can turn into real meter with explosions - but the meter we gain from it is REAL meter.
Consider it training to use the booster conservatively, in a drip, and not blow through all our reserves at once!
>>
>>34881510
>romantic joker
I'm not sure whether that idea is hilarious or horrifying, going by how melodramatic write-ins tend to be.
>>
>>34881510
You very rarely get more meter out than you put in. The only instance I remember is the super corrector.
>>
>>34881526
Where it happened because of DM fiat and never has since even in the same conditions?
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>>34881520
>hilarious or horrifying
Pic related.

>>34881526
While true, that 10% recharge, and 1:1 transfer with Meter, we can fire off 3 missiles per turn indefinitely - its 9%, so maybe argus too?
We can run 5 rifle bits forever. At ....least until they get shot down cuz they're kinda derpy
Arsenal beacon every turn, slap a gun onto the midas arm, and fire till its dry. Become quick-swap weapons guy!

The possibilities are endless!
And all those things return meter when they hit stuff

Not to mention the possibilities when it comes to boosting weapons: We can fire 'free meter' weapons - like the vulcans, and apparently the tau gun? Normally, but with the cobalt boost for more/better effects

I'd say that free boosted vulcans forever - as long as we're not drawing more power - qualifies as both pretty good, and more than we put in.
>>
>>34881569

... Actually, JQOP, can we please get booster cost for our primary weapons next time you update the character sheet?
Its not listed like it is for later additions. Not sure if a holdover, intentional, or vague because its a range instead of a fixed value.
>>
>>34881569
We can also level 2 Carnifex for twice as long.
>>
>>34881335
>>34881341
>>34881369
>>34881382

> [X] "I've always had a talent for it."
> "I stopped aiming with my hand and started aiming with my heart."

"Ah-" Mio goes a little redder; "...S-somehow, that makes me happy..." she murmurs, almost to herself - You're fairly certain you weren't meant to hear *that*.

> " And I wanted to show Renji up."

"Mmm-!" A laugh peals from her lips - Her hand going to her mouth a moment later, to stifle it. "...His face was - It was *really* something. I...almost felt a little sorry for him..."

> [X] (Indicating the box) "-Aren't you going to open that?"
> [X] "I had a suspicion what's inside would be good... and I thought it would make you smile."

Mio makes a low, soft sound of affirmation - The roses blooming in her cheeks, her gaze meeting yours for a moment...Before she looks down and away, as if not trusting herself to speak.

"-Anon-kun, I..." she begins, tentatively - "...It's strange, but - I don't want to open it yet. Your gift to me...Somehow, it feels like - When I open it...'Today' will be over." Her fingers caress the bow - The ribbon rustling beneath her touch.

"So...I wanted - I just want to keep things as they are...For a little while longer..."

Perhaps it's not just the prize she's talking about - A heartbeat later, Mio busies herself with the cake...A flash of fork and knife, her slender wrists turning expertly - Apparently, she's had a lot of practice, and it gives her a moment to think. There's something self-conscious about the way she eats - taking small, almost delicate bites, savoring each one...Though there *is* a little smear of cream at the corner of her lips, one that resists the gentle dab of her napkin.

[ ] "...Is it good?"
[ ] "-I understand."
[ ] "We all have to move forward, eventually."
[ ] "I'm not sure I understand, but..."
[ ] "-This is a really nice cafe."
[ ] "Where would you like to go next?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34881562
Seriously, don't be a dick.

>>34881569
Just keep in mind that the booster doesn't necessarily increase a weapon's stats. It unlocks alt-firing modes. For example the Vulcans become armor-piercing, which lowers their overall damage but makes them more effective against targets with lots of damage resistance.

>>34881593
This, however, is true.
>>
>>34881603
>"-I understand."
>"Where would you like to go next?"
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>>34881593

Oh my
>>
(Gentlemen, my sincerest apologies: I'm aware of the discussion regarding equipment, but I'm also doing my best to get the next post up as soon as possible.

It's not my intention to cut off discussion and debate, but I'm hoping to progress the story while I'm still fresh.)
>>
>>34881603
>[ ] Free
Do something romantic that is not too lewd. Like wiping the cake off Mio with your finger
>>
>>34881634
Most people seem to be fine with the Booster upgrade, anyway.
>>
>>34881603
>there *is* a little smear of cream at the corner of her lips, one that resists the gentle dab of her napkin.
Reach out and brush it off. Make sure she sees Joker lick the finger.
>>
>>34881634
Don't worry.
In the end, I'm fine with most choices. Limiter was the rational one, but that doesn't make the rest less useful.

Also, can we unlock one of the vague relics?
It would be nice to know what Koleos and co. actually do.
>>
>>34881447
Three more Hellion types is a decent choice, but do we want to do one and a Red Comet or Leukocyte upgrade instead?
>>
Uh, guys... We've got Adamant Aegis essence signature to process.
Anyone in favor? It kinda seems like a very useful unlock.
>>
>>34881603
[X] "We all have to move forward, eventually."
[X] "-This is a really nice cafe."
>>
>>34881634
>but I'm hoping to progress the story while I'm still fresh.)

I'm going to say this because I don't think anyone else has the presence of mind to

THIS IS NOT A CRIME. Story - and the game - come first. And as a writer and creative gm, god I know how what you mean about having to get stuff out of your head and into text while you're in one of those creative moods.

In fact, most games I play in table talk of shopping/equipment/discussion for between sessions so it doesn't detract from gameplay.

>>34881636
>Do something romantic that is not too lewd. Like wiping the cake off Mio with your finger

haha okay.
PLus
[X] "We all have to move forward, eventually."
[X] Free: "But not right now."
and
[X] Free: "... I feel it too. Like there's something on the cusp, just waiting..."

In fact, say that, THEN the thing with the cake frosting. Bait and switch!

We should have the autopilot talk at some point, though.
>>
>>34881662
Yes. Fuck yes.
>>
>>34881664
>We should have the autopilot talk at some point, though.
Yeah, that's kinda significant.

But it's interesting that apparently our autopilot shoots as good as our Red World self.
Maybe there's some overlap in that.
>>
>>34881662
Hell yeah, absolutely
>>
>>34881662

The idea of defensive upgrades, reactor upgrades, jet upgrades, or a lance to use with our abruption jets are ALL tempting - and those were kind of his thing, too.

Hell if roll lucky, pulling his shield out of his garbled mess of scrap code would be hilarious.

What's it cost? 25%. So we'd have 43%?

Then, what? Save for a vehicle?
>>
>>34881603
>[X] "...Is it good?"
>[X] "Where would you like to go next?"
"Every day has its end. But tomorrow doesn't have to be worse than today."
"Except tomorrow I wear a shark costume in front of everyone. So maybe the day after that will be good."

>>34881659
>Three more Hellion types
I say this. If we're still interested in unlocking all of the Sun's capabilities, than this and the general Hellion upgrades need to happen ASAP. There's a few others good for getting more unlocks.
>>
>>34881662
Certainly
>>
>>34881687
>Then, what? Save for a vehicle?
If it was my choice, I'd go for either signal booster or the scrander hover mode (you know, the one that helps against leg amputation) or one of the relics.

If it was one of the vehicles, I'd rather invest more into the Comet.

Also, did we ever get the Advent Caster?
>>
>>34881687

OP made it free didn't they?
>>
>>34881701
I'm pretty sure that the dude brought in so much essence that we gained EXP that carried over into the next level.
That's why it's fragmented. A chunk of it was used to level up, but the rest is inert due to not filling out our XP pool.
>>
>>34881689
>than this and the general Hellion upgrades need to happen ASAP.

We should turn on essence core production at some point.

IIRC we're short cores; have lots of basic frames and a smattering of advanced onces.

And... with the hellion scrander unlocking scrander upgrades, I kind of want to see if reactive plating will unlock defensive upgrades - cuz that's our weakness now.

if we need to power through research, well, then we want the Quantum Accelerator sooner than later.

Also why didn't we void anchor the arena? We'd be getting TONS of essence from everyone fighting during the festival.
>>
>>34881689
>I say this. If we're still interested in unlocking all of the Sun's capabilities, than this and the general Hellion upgrades need to happen ASAP. There's a few others good for getting more unlocks.


Mmmhhhh.

if mio's warning is right, and we're on the cusp of the endgame - this is a 'go to war with the army we have, not the one we want' situation.

How does this change our priorities?
>>
>>34881687
It's going to be a shield.

>>34881689
I'll vote for more Hellion models. What other upgrades do you think have unlocks?
>>
>>34881603
>"So...I wanted - I just want to keep things as they are...For a little while longer..."

"I feel the same way - but I feel it too. Just.... if anything *wierd* happens, stay close, okay? I...."
trail off, and then segue into another action. Let her pick up off the 'we're thinking and don't want to say it' que.

We've told her to do this before - in the cafe where enfer attacked - so it shouldn't be too wierd.

In fact, hell, do some throwbacks to that scene, too. Remind her why she fell for us.
>>
So, guys, if we regenerate 10% booster per round... Even if we are utilizing it...
MAXIMUM JOKER costs 20% per round.
This effectively means that we have 17 rounds of full fire mode, unless OP makes adjustments to this.
>>
>>34881733
>It's going to be a shield.

Well, JQop has surprised us before. The question is, will it be a better shield than the Sinistral?

Or do we become one of those dual shield jackasses from dark souls.

>>34881768
>17 rounds of full fire mode, unless OP makes adjustments to this.
Actaully... we can use meter as booster to. So slightly longer than that, depending on how much meter we're gaining in burning joker.
>>
>>34881732
>How does this change our priorities?
Immediate upgrades/relics?
All relics mods as well as all relics.
>>
>>34881713
>We'd be getting TONS of essence from everyone fighting during the festival.
Void Anchors don't drain Essence from kills. When we did the Hive raid we had someone put down a VA and still got Essence for kills.

Plus I'm pretty sure energy gains are static. If there's a difference, it's how Essence-rich a place normally is, not who happens to die there.

>>34881732
Can't say. I think we have just the tiniest buffer between now and firing the Sun (which is not the same as endgame), so with a few extra VAs we can and should rush some extra unit types.

>>34881733
Most of the Cherubim weapon unlocks. Maybe the Chayot's Distortion Halos (and sweet mother of god, those units are amazing). Faust Impactors. That last one is a really good idea, if it works for Joker's Crisis Arm like the Cobalt Laser did for the Lucifer Bits.
>>
If the grinder doesn't cost anything, definitely do that first.
>>
>>34881781
>>34881732

Hmmmn.

Isn't it more likely that this is just the end of the *hyades* tournament? Not necessarily when the gangers, kraken, rust kaiser, and pazuzu's endgame fires.

We haven't seen them at ALL, even though we know at least one of them has a hyades.

If.... this is a hint of the endgame, well, bishamon may have been ganked already, and we missed our chance to save him with the Athame.

Just saying, the end, may not be The End, only the beginning to it.

Dunno, its just conjecture at this point.


I'd say if the endtimes are upon us, though, we want to be able to get into position to fuck with the Smilers - fast, and faster than they respond.

And.... I think that means the Raptor. Because it is also renowned for its speed, and it flies, so it doesn't have to take roads and can acces remote or flying stages.

>>34881805
25% anon. thats why we haven't done it yet - figuring out our Apocalypse Setup first.
>>
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>>34881639

(In all honesty, while I enjoy running the Quest, keeping track of research and the development of equipment - As well as the relevant discussion - can be rather intimidating at times.)

>>34881689

> [X] "...Is it good?"

"Mmmnn~!" The faint *clink* of Mio's fork against the plate punctuates her words. "-It's the fresh fruit and the fresh cream they use," she says, warming to the topic; "-At the Papillon, we'd always make sure of that; the customers can tell, you see? As long as-"

>>34881636
>>34881650
>>34881664

> Do something romantic that is not too lewd. Like wiping the cake off Mio with your finger.
> Reach out and brush it off. Make sure she sees Joker lick the finger.

"Anon...kun?"

Mio's green eyes widen, ever-so-slightly; A soft surrusation of indrawn breath as your touch strokes against the corner of her cheek - Brushing aside the slight curl of cream. There's a sweet, delicate taste to it; A subtle flavor, a gentle scent that lingers...

She's blushing. She's absolutely red, now, unable even to hide it - A spreading flush that burns brightly in her cheeks, her hands folded on her lap as the hushed - "Ah-" - peals from her lips.

> "Every day has its end. But tomorrow doesn't have to be worse than today."

"...Is, is that so?"

It's a murmur. For a moment, Mio drops her gaze - Her eyes lowered, her smile waning.

"I - wish I could think like that, too..." a silence comes with her words - An almost painful one, quite at odds with the cheery mood of the day - but then Mio shakes her head, lightly, and looks up. There's something almost vulnerable in her gaze...And then she smiles, and everything is right with her world again.

> "Except tomorrow I wear a shark costume in front of everyone. So maybe the day after that will be good."

"Oh-" It takes her a visible effort - But Mio presses the napkin to her lips, just in time to hide her smile; A kind of playful embarrassment in her eyes.

(Continued)
>>
>>34881815
Shit, that's all? Use the grinder and get two more Hellion types. Easy peasy.
>>
>>34881815
>25% anon. thats why we haven't done it yet - figuring out our Apocalypse Setup first.


I'm pretty sure OP got rid of the cost because we wouldn't use it otherwise .
>>
>>34881825
I can imagine. Maybe we should start tagging posts with something so you can just Ctrl+F through all the relevant posts.
>>
>>34881603
>"So...I wanted - I just want to keep things as they are...For a little while longer..."

"that's nice to hear. You've... always rejected, run away from who you were meant to be, and focused on being who you *are*. And when you talk like that... you actually sound happy, and it gives me warm fuzzies inside."
>>
>>34881815
>25%
Not for a long time. It's free now.

>>34881825
We could probably tabulate official votes by using three greater-thans. Pretty rare usually.

In this case, I'd vote for the Helios, Mastemas and Tempests like
>>>Helios Matrix
>>>Superheavy Chassis
>>>Tempest Hardshell

Would that help? Discussion would be separate then.
>>
>>34881781
See, those are instant. We can get them whenever. Research takes time, so if anyone wants to do it we need to start as early as possible.

>>34881847
Jesus, no.
>>
>>34881847
This really isn't the place for that, Anon. If Mio heard that she'd be out of her clothes in seconds.
>>
>>34881865
>In this case, I'd vote for the Helios, Mastemas and Tempests like

Here's the problem with Hellion Research though:

HELLION HARDSHELL PRODUCTION:
[X] OFF
VIRTUE HARDSHELL PRODUCTION:
[X] OFF
CHERUBIM HARDSHELL PRODUCTION:
[X] OFF
CHAYOT HARDSHELL PRODUCTION:
[X] OFF
ESSENCE CORE PRODUCTION:
[X] OFF

They don't do shit unless we commit to making them.
And all they do is unlock upgrades which....
don't do anything on their own, and also cost resources

So!

if we want more soldiers, we need more Essence Cores - since we're short cores to frames as of last count - and to make more advanced/new/unlocked types.

Also, if/when we fire the thing - gonna need to bump Core Production to High, so its less defenseless.

>>34881825
>(In all honesty, while I enjoy running the Quest, keeping track of research and the development of equipment - As well as the relevant discussion - can be rather intimidating at times.)
That's kind of our problem - and it tends to kick up when we're waiting for words.
>>
>>34881841
>I can imagine. Maybe we should start tagging posts with something so you can just Ctrl+F through all the relevant posts.

Make a second thread, just to keep it out of this one?

>>34881884
>This really isn't the place for that, Anon. If Mio heard that she'd be out of her clothes in seconds.

thank god we have a cake here to cover it up with! that's indecent!
>>
>>34881910
>upgrades which....don't do anything on their own
Actually, they enable further upgrades.
I'm not a fan of the Hellions, but I love the upgrades they grant us.

Why do I have this feeling that the Hollow Sun will turn against us in the endgame?
>>
>>34881940
Because it is/was a possibility.

But after eating the armor? I don't think it's too possible, anymore.
>>
>>34881910
I'm aware. There's a tradeoff between being able to use what you have and going for the next thing. That's why I want to try and seed a few more Void Anchors via our contacts. Bishamon, Utopia Ruler, the raid leaders who didn't put one down, Armaros and a few other people. With each one that goes in we ramp up production, focusing on cores and then units.

>>34881931
Quest specific meta threads and discussion threads have been a faux pas for years now.

>>34881940
Your player paranoia is acting up in the wrong direction. The better question is "Why is Frost Cestus's information becoming available, and why does OP seem to imply it's going to be relevant in the future?"
>>
>>34881865
Tempest, Superheavy, Grinder. That dude's relic, whatever it is, is too tempting to pass up.
>>
>>34881983
>Bishamon, Utopia Ruler
Those two are just as likely to use those as weapons. Against us.
>>
>>34881940
>Why do I have this feeling that the Hollow Sun will turn against us in the endgame?

Because the hollow sun was obviously made to combat *something*
Something great enough to require an adaptive smartbot swarm that can research and adapt to their enemy, self-improve, conquer territory.... and ultimately, not need a master, only a keeper (unless we've gotten greater system access since recieving Daegal).

when we found it, it was SERIOUSLY damaged - someone had counter attacked it while it was weak, presumably after it had fired, and iirc brought its superstructure down to 66%.

Whomever gunned for the sun in the last cycle destroyed an ENTIRE THIRD of it.

And Pressing The Buttom sends ALL the angels. ALl of them. NO partials, no backsies.

So.

Make sure you choose the right target for it, because if you don't get the threat it was made to fight - its gonna bite you in the ass when you're weakest.


This is also the reason we need command and control access/facilities/comms for it.

I'd be a fan of Modular frame - Virtue - because it lets us steal/hijack their Swarm-Direction facilities/modules/dirge casters what not -

... and the Teleport Homer upgrades that let us summon the flock to us directly.
>>
So, about the grinder:
It costs us EXP. Don't forget that.
And we already had plenty of kills before we got our level-up.
Worst case, we are currently at 20% or so because of the massive amount of essence that we must have gained from him.

Considering this cost, do you want to grind anyway?
>>
>>34881826

(Using the Grinder is free, actually.)

>>34881662
>>34881667
>>34881671
>>34881687
>>34881696

RELIC UNLOCK: ADAMANT

Infused with Adamant Aegis's Essence, the ADAMANT - Also known as the AEGIS OF WRATH - is a superheavy shield of surpassing craftsmanship and lethality. Forged from a superdense adamantite-neutronium alloy, this black-banded kite shield bears Aegis's personal symbol, forever glowing a sullen, molten red. Derived from the war-forges of the Hollow Sun, the ADAMANT is a not a shield meant for defense - It is a shield meant for attack.

Existing as a solid, physical object that cannot be de-manifested, the ADAMANT requires constant contact with at least two charging elements, and superhuman strength to utilize. (With a Talon at the bare minimum.) The sheer weight of the ADAMANT precludes the use of any other object on that arm.

In return, the ADAMANT grants a flat +60% bonus to the user's HP - Additionally, when the shield is struck in melee combat, it releases a shockwave of black flame: One with equal intensity to the force directed against it. This effect automatically activates once per round, on the first blow parried - Requiring a moment to recharge before it can function again. (tl;dr - Only once per round.)

At present, the shield merely functions as an impressive bulwark against ranged attacks - Though it undoubtedly has further powers that are yet to be unlocked.

(Continued)
>>
>>34882023
Damn, son. Damn.
>>
>>34882023
So, we have to shoot with our left now, considering that the Argus system and Sinistral are there?
Thank fuck for the emulator module.

Guys, now might be a good time to invest into hover mode.
>>
>>34882023
New play-style GET!

Now I'm even more curious about Legion Armiger.
>>
>>34882003
Ruler isn't that dumb, though he might refuse. Bishamon may also refuse, but is less likely if we call it a favor.

>>34882016
You've missed the major pieces, I think.

>Because the hollow sun was obviously made to combat *something*
Black Joker. It overrode our control when we brought Rook in, while specifically indicating it was fighting BJ.

>someone had counter attacked it while it was weak, presumably after it had fired
Pazuzu had just attacked, and it had just built itself after we unsealed it by trying to Annihilate Rust Kaiser.

>>34882023
Eesh. That's not ideal. At all.

I don't think we can use this.
>>
>>34882064
I wonder if Natsumi would like it.
>>
>>34882074
She can't use it. Requires a Talon and superhuman strength. Cypher isn't a strength build.
>>
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>>34882016

Pardon - in case this wasn't clear.

Being able to direct the swarm to fight more intelligently is probably a higher priority than making the swarm better

What upgrades came of the Gospel Relay?

Because its probably important to get the relic that unlocked

>>34882023
This..... is gonna be really useful against bishamon.

hahahahahaha. We can midas-adamant and sinistral now. Oh lordy lord lord. Thats trollish as fuck.
>>
>>34882064
>Eesh. That's not ideal. At all.

Its intimidating as hell, though.

Look, maybe we can mount it on the front of the Ophanium, and use it to ram people?
>>
>>34882087
>We can midas-adamant and sinistral now. Oh lordy lord lord. Thats trollish as fuck
Would be better to have two charging elements on the left.
That would allow us to actually block with Midas and Adamant, instead of Adamant and Sinistral.

Also, I'd say we honor the dead dude by using this stuff.

>>34882112
Wait, how big is it?
Can the GARM use it in walker mode?
>>
>>34882129
>Would be better to have two charging elements on the left.
>That would allow us to actually block with Midas and Adamant, instead of Adamant and Sinistral.

We can use the Emulator Module on the Midas Arm.

that allows 2/2
>>
OP, does this co-exist with the Sinistral or is it one or the other?

>>34882150
Pretty sure we can't.
>>
>>34882112
Sounds too front heavy.
>>
>>34882056
>Now I'm even more curious about Legion Armiger.

The one I wish we'd used it on was the tank-man.

Just because he was a genuine departure from the 'two legs two arms' philosophy, I can't help but wonder what kind of sick mind would make such a wheel man, and how a different paradigm - being a fucking robotank - would have changed things up.

Or even done something cool, like discounted the dominion or unlocked a vehicle research early.

PANZER. Something panzer.
>>
>>34882162
>Pretty sure we can't.

From last thread.
>(You can actually use the Emulator module to clone the Crisis Arm - So you can punch someone with two Crisis Arms at once.)

Midas arm is the crisis arm so....

We can clone it, but we can't get two discounts on codebursts unless we grab another nihl sphere.
>>
>>34882172
Panzer Galliant. Or Galient. One of those.

Honestly we probably would have gotten one of his guns.
>>
>>34882187

Man, i would have loved a tank-segway we can hop into and take joy rides with.

Not a gun. Just the wheels. No pilot
>>
>>34882184
>Midas arm is the crisis arm so....
Actually, it's not. The Gauntlet contains the Crisis Arm, and transforms into it when necessary. It's a special feature of the Midas that lets the Emulator copy it whenever.

The actual properties specific to the Midas Gauntlet (damage resistance+charging cores) I don't think can be copied. OP, could you weigh in on this?
>>
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>>34882150

(You can't emulate the Midas Arm, but - If you want - you could install a Talon on your left arm to wield the Adamant with.)

>>34882044
>>34882047

(Gentlemen, I'll point out that you don't necessarily have to use it - You can leave it in the Hollow Sun for storage. The Adamant is a very, very different style of gameplay, so to speak - It effectively halves your offense, and renders the Emulator Module useless. You can't actually use anything on the arm that carries the Adamant - No Argus System or Crisis Arm, for example. In return, you get a massive boost to defense and HP, as well as a ferocious melee counterattack; However, this is a very drastic change to your playstyle, and more 'walking tank' than 'run and gun'.

You also already have a shield in the form of the Sinistral.)

>>34882162

(Co-exist, but bear in mind the reduction of your offensive capabilities.)

>>34881825

> [X] "Where would you like to go next?"

Mio blinks, just once - Her brow furrowing lightly in thought, as she considers this. Then:

"Ummm...Actually, I'd like to visit your school's stall - The one that's promoting the play." Her voice is faintly apologetic - She must still be thinking about the shark thing. Mio fiddles with a straw of powdered sugar, the crystals rustling faintly as she stirs them into her tea - "...I wanted to watch the rehearsal, but-" her words trail off.

(Continued)
>>
I'm kind of thankful that we can confirm the fact that the grinder really does give some similar to the primary relic of whoever donated the essence.

The problem now is find a good way to use it, like a certain cursed sword, for example.

Maybe a Photon Lance?
>>
>>34882237

"Ummm...Actually, I'd like to visit your school's stall - The one that's promoting the play." Her voice is faintly apologetic - She must still be thinking about the shark thing. Mio fiddles with a straw of powdered sugar, the crystals rustling faintly as she stirs them into her tea - "...I wanted to watch the rehearsal, but-" her words trail off.

"Anon-kun...I'm really, really excited for it. Asuna-chan's writing is *really* good...And, and Natsumi-chan looks wonderful in her costume-" There's an animation to Mio's voice, now - "...A tragic romance like that - I think it's great. I didn't get the chance to talk to Asuna-chan before...But I really want to congratulate her - Getting your work made into a play..."

Her voice softens, slightly.

"-It's like...Like having your dreams come true. Just a little..."

[ ] "Well, it still depends on our performance tomorrow..."
[ ] "-I'm surprised. I didn't think you'd like it that much."
[ ] "I...don't think that's a good idea, right now."
[ ] "I'm sure she'll be happy to hear that."
[ ] "Actually, I had something else in mind..."
- [ ] The Haunted House
- [ ] The Fortune-Teller
- [ ] The Rides
- [ ] The Parade
- [ ] The Concert
- [ ] The Cosplay Contest
- [ ] The Chapel.
- [ ] Why not leave the school?
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34882237
Yeah, leave it. Can't use it.
>>
>>34882237
Seems like it'd be pretty useful in mass combat.
>>
>>34882237
>- You can leave it in the Hollow Sun for storage

is it Arsenal Beacon -able?
>>
>>34882261
>"Well, it still depends on our performance tomorrow..."
>"Actually, I had something else in mind..."
>>The Fortune-Teller
Time for foreshadowing and/or fun
>>
>>34882263
It only counters the first attack in a round. Mass combat is where it's at its most useless.
>>
>>34882290
I was thinking less about the counter and more the huge bonus to defense.
>>
>>34882087
Bishamon seems like the kind of guy to build of multi-strike combos, the counter from the shield might not be too amazing.
>>
>>34882261
You know, the play is something that is very personal to Joker, considering what it's based on.
Though telling Mio might be kinda dickish right now.
>>
>>34882261
>"-It's like...Like having your dreams come true. Just a little..."

[X] Free: "And what dreams do you have, mio?"

>>34882287
>Time for foreshadowing and/or fun
Oh i like this - but isn't Asuna also the seer?
The one who wrote the play - through prophetic dreams - and is also the Player who quantum-hooks players into fight for her?

It seems like Mio is gravitating towards the *player* responsible for seeing the future.

So!

Lets do BOTH!

And also
[x] Free: If we're heading somewhere, segue into the Autopilot Talk. She MUST have noticed it by now - just bring it up subtly/gently - and we've been meaning to do it for ages, burying it constantly, yet hinting at it wheneer we get a red world battle. Getting it out of the way now, while we're walking somewhere, is great and proactive.
>>
Wait!
I have an idea for the shield!
Rust Kaiser exists!
>>
>>34882302
We don't have the build for it. We can't tank, and we're staggered too easily. Plus we lose a hand and half of our utility items.

Bad deal all around. Can't even trade it.
>>
>>34882268

(I'll have to think about it. Neutronium artifacts are meant to balance their substantial advantages against their inability to be manifested, 'locking in' on a certain item slot. However, I understand that you'll want access to them when you change your loadout.

I'll say that it can, in fact, be called from the Hollow Sun. But very, very slowly, and not soon enough to be changed during combat. Once summoned, the usual properties of neutronium apply.)
>>
>>34882318
What is your goal?
Upgrade our charging elements, put a Talon on the left arm and use the right to punch him to death?
>>
>>34882317
Ugh, no. Just stop trying to force the issue, it has never, ever ended well.
>>
>>34882317
>[x] Free: If we're heading somewhere, segue into the Autopilot Talk. She MUST have noticed it by now - just bring it up subtly/gently - and we've been meaning to do it for ages, burying it constantly, yet hinting at it wheneer we get a red world battle. Getting it out of the way now, while we're walking somewhere, is great and proactive.
Yes, do NOT forget this!

>>34882326
>Can't even trade it
You know, that'd be a very nasty way of defiling a dead dude.
>>
>>34882237
>>34882044
No, no, I was impressed. This is awesome.
>>
>>34882333
There aren't any Neutronium Correctors... Are there?
Neutronium golem would be too much for us.
>>
>>34882337
The Photon Lance would be a decent alternative for the lack of Crisis Arm.

The shield itself is 100% built for a full rushdown attack style, I'm talking about Maximum Joker/Vanquish mode.

But it's just going to be too difficult to build any further on the shield. Unless the Hollow Sun has a way to help improve it.
>>
>>34882340

Thats bullshit - the only reason you say that is you lot botched it the last time it came up -
- and its fresher in mind all the other times

She's actually been fairly favorable to our wierdness and eccentricities - enough to date us! and MUST have noticed it, but is too polite/scared we'll hate her and leave to bring it up - before you guys tried to treat it like a fight, and shove the nihl sphere down her throat.

Character-driven, passion, explanations and hints of who we are, and why we are so awesome, bear-baiting our curiosity out and showing we trust her with it - are the ONLY way to.
Plus, you need to have communication with your partner. Period.

And, need i remind you, having the option to have her accept her dead mom's gift is kind of critical to staving off the apocalypse.

Gotta start on that shit somewhere. The festival is the time and place for it. I'm not saying rush into it, i'm saying open the doors slowly and don't bring up the sphere again.

Its not forcing.
Its debugging the fuckup.
>>
>>34882333
Forgot to ask earlier, but does Shield Bashing trigger the counter-attack effect?
>>
>>34882385
Yeah, she can summon butterflies.
We sometimes zone out into a parallel universe.
>>
>>34882385
No, it's because there's a time and place for all these talks, and every time we try to use one social situation to talk about something else it backfires horribly. You're just as bad as the people trying to ram the Nihl Sphere into Mio's head, because you don't understand how conversations work.
>>
>>34882415
>You're just as bad as the people trying to ram the Nihl Sphere into Mio's head
You have just called him a troll.
Are you proud?
>>
>>34882261
>[X] "-I'm surprised. I didn't think you'd like it that much."
>[X] "I...don't think that's a good idea, right now."
>[X] The Fortune-Teller

All things considered, going to see Asuna with Mio is probably a bad idea.

We're going to have to see the Chapel later. Does she know anything about it?

>>34882317
>[X] Free: "And what dreams do you have, Mio?"
That's a good question.

>>34882381
Just fyi, the shield stops ANY weapon or item from going into that hand. It's not like the Sinistral, you have to hold it properly.
>>
>>34882261

Hey, that's an obvious plot hook. I say we go along with it, and visit the play.
>>
Three Hellion types, or two and another upgrade? Tempted by a shield upgrade, but I think it's best to sit on it for now and consider potential options.
>>
>>34882422
I think he's being serious, he just has no idea how to get what he wants without fucking it all up.
>>
>>34882261

> [X] "I'm sure she'll be happy to hear that."

It might help us patch things up with Asuna. Besides, I want to see the girls interact.
>>
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>>34882412

Yeah, but we haven't told her that.
Also she's scared of her butterfly powers, yet we're the only one in the world she'd open up enough to to show them to - what does that tell you?
That she's willing to go there for us, anon.

>>34882415
>You're just as bad as the people trying to ram the Nihl Sphere into Mio's head, because you don't understand how conversations work.

I think not!
3 days worth of quality time with mio, and sleepovers?

I mean, sure, in an ideal world it would be over the dinner table 'honey, we need to have a discussion' type stuff, but.....

Mio just doesn't get enough screen time for that.

and even when it IS the right time, we don't take the opportunity because - you guessed it - people go 'no this isn't the time'.

So.
Fuck no, that isn't trolling. I DO understand people - and I'm probably the only one here, next to wata, that does - and what i'm really after is a Good End to the apocalypse.

So I ask you: when IS a good time.

You don't get to shit talk me without offering an alternative. bashing without contribution means you're the troll.

So back up a step and help brainstorm.
>>
>>34882444
If we go for two, we'll have 28% charge left.
Enough for another Hellion upgrade.
The choir beacon is apparently not yet researched. This seems like a massive oversight.
>>
>>34882457
>Good End to the apocalypse.

Speaking of which, something I think people forgot:

Mio is a hyades, and a seisin high student.

If another hyades wins, or cybele ascends because the thread can't decide, she's going to be a casualty.

SO decide if you want her to die; and re-arrange your priorities accordingly
>>
>>34882389

(No. It's a counterattack - It converts the force of the impact into an equal and opposite reaction. At present, the weight of the shield precludes it's effective use as a weapon. That might, of course, change in a few levels.)

> Can't even trade it.

(You can, in fact, trade it. It's a Relic - You can hand it over in person.)

(Also: Gentlemen, is there a consensus on where you'd like to go next?)
>>
>>34882457
>I mean, sure, in an ideal world it would be over the dinner table 'honey, we need to have a discussion' type stuff, but.....
In the real world, it would happening at night, while watching the stars or something.
Good luck getting the opportunity here, though.
>>
>>34882480
I'd say that or Reactive Plating, since that seems like it would unlock something rad for us.
>>
>>34882484
>(Also: Gentlemen, is there a consensus on where you'd like to go next?)

If you can give us a quick scene where we're walking and talking to the next one - while we're figuring out where that is - i think that would help things along.

Also the reason I suggested telling her about the autopilot between scenes.

>>34882495
Exactly. If we want to do it, we have to use the screentime wisely.
>>
>>34882432
I'm aware, the idea is that if we have to use the shield, it's best to go all out with the Carnifex and use some melee weapon pulled from the Hollow Sun.

Cobalt boosted Photon Lances and shield bashes might actually mean something, even if we can't use a gun/Crisis Arm.

How much damage do you think the shield could cause when used with Maximum Joker and Abruption Jets?
>>
>>34882484
>(Also: Gentlemen, is there a consensus on where you'd like to go next?)
Looks like we have multiple votes for fortune teller.
The only point of discussion right now is if we have the autopilot talk with Mio.
>>
>>34882484
Two-three votes for the Fortune Teller.
>>
>>34882498
Yeah, reactive plating, choir beacon and faust impactors seem like upgrades that we would benefit from.
>>
>>34882484
>(Also: Gentlemen, is there a consensus on where you'd like to go next?)

Fusion Plan Go!
... talk about shit on the way tooo...
... asuna, where mio can gush about the play, and we can find out about any last-minute line alterations (since the prophecy its written on is continually evolving)
... and go 'hey, we're going to the fortune teller, wanna come?' to asuna, in an ironic twist of bringing the teller to the fake.
>>
>>34882510

I voted to visit Asuna and the others at the school booth, too.
>>
>>34882529
I don't see why we can't pop in and do that on the way, a la >>34882525

The difference is really how long we intend to stay, isn't it?

And whether one is on the way to another
>>
>>34882481
She's not a Simulation Player. The Chalice Queen awakening drains the simulation bodies, not persons attending Seisin. Most of of the latter are the former.

>>34882509
Hollow Sun weapons can't be boosted at all.

>>34882525
Dear god no. Asuna seeing Mio interact with Joker is probably one of the things that caused the distance between Anon and Asuna.
>>
>>34882509
I've got it- we learn how to transform and fly around on the shield! http://fc06.deviantart.net/fs22/i/2008/018/8/e/Zeta_Gundam_Wave_Rider_Mode_by_clem_master_janitor.jpg
>>
>>34882525
>... and go 'hey, we're going to the fortune teller, wanna come?' to asuna, in an ironic twist of bringing the teller to the fake.
That sounds like fun, except that Asuna is still very afraid of us.

...If we have the talk with Mio at some point, we'd likely need to use Asuna's sketch book.
>>
>>34882480
>The choir beacon is apparently not yet researched. This seems like a massive oversight.
>>34882519

What about:
Choir Beacon AND reactive plating?
that leaves us with 38.4.

We can decide next thread if we want to get a vehicle or not, instead of spending it all now - and may have even more finished research.

>>34882542
>...If we have the talk with Mio at some point, we'd likely need to use Asuna's sketch book.
that.... is a very good point.

And nothing mends bridges like a festive atmosphere! Fuck it, lets do it.
>>
>>34882509
Looks like not much. >>34882484

>>34882510
No auto-pilot talk.
>>
>>34882538
I was referring to causing the lance to overload and explode.

In combat, Hellions have a tendency to impale opponents on thrown weapons, after setting them to explode.

After incorporating Cobalt Laser technology, the Photon Lances are no longer destroyed on impact and can be retrieved - However, there's a substantial delay before the weapon can be used again.

My mistake for confusing/misusing the terms, but it looks the entire idea is useless from the start.

The shield is going to take a very long time or a very specific scenario, to make useful. If at all.
>>
>>34882538
>Dear god no. Asuna seeing Mio interact with Joker is probably one of the things that caused the distance between Anon and Asuna.

Think about it this way

Mio wants to talk to asuna about the play - really really badly - the difference is whether we get to be there to see it, and are around to do damage control

Cuz, she'll probably do it on her own if we don't do it with her.

So bring out your smoothest bastard, wata!

and... hell, we have ways to approach the scene. We don't have to go in with her, you know - its a festival, send her in to talk, and grab some festival snacks (okay, not hot dogs, but drinks are reasonable) for everyone while we keep an eye on things.

Goign with her gives us a chance to spin it.

>>34882510
>The only point of discussion right now is if we have the autopilot talk with Mio.
I'd say yes - if things turn towards fortunes and sketchbooks, having this as a primer before it will be a+.
>>
>>34882023
Protoman GET

Can we etch 'Hope Rides Alone' on the front?
>>
>>34882525
The last option here is about as cruel as leaving Natsumi to kill Bardiel.

Do you hate Asuna that much?
>>
>>34882600

We're a manipulative fuck. Who gives a shit about feelings if we get what we want?

Keep in mind her feelings may have changed since then - since she dreams about the joker every night.
>>
>>34882600

Frankly, with the end of the world coming, we need to give less of a damn about feelings and start using ALL the resources at our disposal.

and.... with the benefit of pre-planning, we don't have to drop that line at all, up until the end.

A better sell would be to go "hey, can we see your sketchbook? Mio is SUCH a fan"
>>
>>34882484
Interesting.

I kind of want to go with relic attunement on the shield, when possible. Maybe eventually condense it down into a riot shield or something.
>>
>>34882617
I don't have a problem with manipulation. Pointless cruelty is entirely different, and if you think going to see her with another girl is anything less than a knife to the heart I don't know what to tell you.
>>
>>34882639
Or get charging elements on our legs and become fully jet-propelled.
>>
>>34882632
>A better sell would be to go "hey, can we see your sketchbook? Mio is SUCH a fan"
She gave us the sketchbook, actually.

>>34882639
Before that, we'll do a few very different upgrades. Like finally unlocking t5 weapons.


So, if we go to the play, we might want to tell Mio that she shouldn't be too affectionate with us while we interact with Asuna.
>>
>>34882641

"HEY WE WANT AN AUTOGRAPH!"

>>34882639
Uh.

You saw the shield when we fought against it, right? That shit reflected energy, it reflected codebursts, and it reflected ranged attacks - everything.

That thing does not do 'smaller'. It just gets bigger.

And there are way better things to spend a level-up on.

If only the hollow sun had relic upgrade services like argent did :(
>>
>>34882656
>She gave us the sketchbook, actually.

..... really now. You have my interest.

>>34882656
>So, if we go to the play, we might want to tell Mio that she shouldn't be too affectionate with us while we interact with Asuna.
Good point.
and I forgot t5 weapons were a thing.
>>
>>34882657
>:(
Why the fuck are all of those lunatics in our quest?
Stop shitposting. This isn't /vg/.

Anyway, maybe we should make a vote.
I'm in favor of fortune teller, considering that Asuna will not like seeing us with Mio.
>>
>>34882639
Nah. There's so much more interesting stuff, like the weapon unlocks, and more useful stuff like base meter and armor.

We'd have to spend a bunch of levels just respecing ourself to use the shield, and until then we'd get our ass kicked left and right.

Leave it in the Sun. See if the Thief has more Joker relics.
>>
>>34882657
> :(
I agree with your point, but this isn't AIM. And stop double spacing every other sentence, that's annoying to read.
>>
>>34882694
(Gentlemen: While I appreciate the discussion, I'll wait for the end of the thread to get a consensus on research.)

> [X] Free: "And what dreams do you have, mio?"

"I-"

Her gaze turns inward, contemplative.

"...I'm not sure." Mio's voice is soft, her hands resting lightly on her lap. "-I wanted to play tennis, professionally...Get into a good university, then-" She fidgets, in place; Slim fingers lifting to cup her cheek. "...Then, I - really want to be a fashion designer."

A slow breath. "Clothes - Costumes - they really *are* wonderful things. It's like being a different person..." Her smile is a little mischievous, now. "...That's why I liked working in the Papillon, really. As 'Emi'. The way people look at you, think about you...Ah, that's a little vain, isn't it?"

"But now-" she sneaks a glance at you - Quick, tentative, a little shy - "...Now, I'm not so sure. I just - Anon-kun, I want to see more things...Do more things...before I decide."

"...Does that sound strange?" There's a troubled edge to her words, now - "I...don't know if it's the right thing to want. Not any more. An ordinary dream like that..." Her fingers curl lightly against her palm. "-I'm not sure if I can reach it."

Mio shakes her head, breaking from her reverie. "Ah - But...There's still plenty of time for that, right?" she says, smiling. "-At least one more year...Maybe I'll be more mature by then."

Somehow, she still seems troubled.

>>34882525
>>34882537

Outside, once again. There's a stately European aesthetic to the school campus - Like a town in miniature on Feastday, the effect heightened by the brightly-colored streamers fluttering in the breeze, the relentlessly cheery music that plays on and on. It's a refreshing sight; There's simply so much going on, it's a bright whirl of sound and illumination in every direction-

(Continued)
>>
>>34882694

I'm not obliged to indulge your phoneposting habits with tiny screen, but you asked *kinda* nicely.
>>
By the way, when was the last time we used afterimages on the Shroud?
>>
>>34882753

Dunno. It was hinted at we could unlock ways to refill it - but we never did. And the cost of using two modules with it is high enough we never got it.

More reasons to get Adaptive Plating, though - since thats what the nanocolony cloak is.
>>
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>>34882753
Forgot to load these earlier too
>>
>>34882770
I was talking about the ability that we used to use in every fight.

However, I'd wager that a level-up would grant regeneration powers.

We have way too many interesting upgrade options. I want another raid.
>>
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>>34882711

...And, interestingly, never disorderly or messy. An absurd amount of planning must have gone into this, making it an oddly picturesque sight - Order, even amongst disorder. A harmony, somehow, where even the lesser notes fit into a greater pattern. Here and there, you make out the white uniform of Seisin High students, amongst the basic black (And sometimes red) of your own's school's...Also powder-blue, and brown, and every other measured shade that you've glimpsed there and again, in your daily commute...

Mio glances to the side; You follow the direction of her gaze, the soft hush of her indrawn breath - There's a couple in casual clothes, their heads close together in a comfortable intimacy. Taking in the sights, as one says something to make the other laugh. The girl looks vaguely familiar - You think, but you can't be sure, that she was part of the welcoming committee.

-A date in plain site. That's pretty daring.

Mio colors, slightly, and looks away - Then at you. She bites her lip, lowering her head - As if she's about to say something...Only to draw away, at the last moment.

What's with this atmosphere...?

Unexpectedly, you see Kouichi. He's not alone, either - You haven't exchanged more than a few words with him, since yesterday, but there's the slightest hint of strain in his expression: A kind of weariness, as if he's bearing an unseen burden. His companion's tall, aquiline - With a stately bearing, her elegant features composed...But there's a hardness to her eyes, the set of her mouth, that quite belies her mature appearance.

The way they carry themselves - The girl looks offended. Kouichi, firm but placating, though the thread of their conversation doesn't carry over the noise of the crowd.

(Continued)
>>
>>34882782
Can you add the new upgrades to the drawing?

Also, a drawing of Joker struggling to hold the new shield, while not wearing any other relics?
>>
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>>34882782

Its a badass coat, and the thought of it fully upgraded makes me wet.

Explosive decoys? Guided decoys WHILE we are invisible? Flechette-turret fortress mode? Its hilariously adaptable
>>
Just thinking

Frost Cestus would have LOVED that shield.
>>
>>34882800
>Unexpectedly, you see Kouichi. He's not alone, either - You haven't exchanged more than a few words with him, since yesterday, but there's the slightest hint of strain in his expression: A kind of weariness, as if he's bearing an unseen burden. His companion's tall, aquiline - With a stately bearing, her elegant features composed...But there's a hardness to her eyes, the set of her mouth, that quite belies her mature appearance.
We really need to have one last talk with him before the clusterfuck.
>>
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>>34882801

I'm not the drawfriend, sadly.

Just someone with way too much hard drive space

What about joker 'training' like its a gym - trying to lift the shield like its a barbell?
HNnnnnnnnggggg.
And everyone else in the hollow sun watching and cringing.
>>
Blacksite Quest when?
>>
>>34882753
>>34882791
Cygnus, I think? Could be remembering incorrectly, pretty sure I was blitzed on meds.

>>34882770
It was suggested that a level up or two could do it, yeah.

>>34882800
So the welcoming committee girls are spending time with the champions? Or is that Uzume?

>>34882812
...Oh yes.
>>
>>34882800
Aqua Merrow, perhaps?
>>
I want all the Shroud upgrades.
And then we make physical decoys that work like Frost Cestus.
An army of Frost Cestus. With meter accumulators.
>>
>>34882829
>It was suggested that a level up or two could do it, yeah.

That, or a hidden benefit to Capote. read on: >Now fully integrated with the user's armour, the Assault Shroud's nanomaterial filaments retain a residual ion charge
Also gets a HUD for it. Seems like that would be 'integrated' enough into us for Cybele's emblem to work. Something part of us, not just hanging off of us.
>>
>>34882800
Small between post write in: reach out and squeeze Mio's hand. Be steady and don't let anyone see, but let her know that we're paying attention to her.
>>
>>34882484
Man, what a picky shield, I was just hoping that force simply coming into contact with the right part of the shield would cause it to retaliate. Oh well.
>>
>>34882838

And here's the problem with that: 110% cost. More for duplicate mimetic adaptor II and III.For that cost, man, i want the jetbike, or something really, really epic.

>>34882853
I like this. Subtle. Sweet.
>>
>>34882850
Maybe. I admit I like the sound of Capote more than jaqueta espadas, but that's something you'd expect from a full upgrade, not a functionality alteration.
>>
>>34882856
It's an honourable shield.
It doesn't want to attack.
The upgrades remove its inhibitions.

>>34882875
A combination of both, likely.

I'm still wondering if Lucifer Bits can be changed into Sword Lucifer Bits.
>>
>>34882881
That's more or less what the last phase does.
>>
>>34882875
Yeah, that or gated behind Adaptive Plating - since mimicing things is also cybele's powerset, it seems like there's synergy there.

>>34882881
Depends on what module options it has, if any. Or whether we get custom dronebays for buying it.
>>
>>34882881
An honourable shield that was stolen and has a habit of vomiting black fire.

It doesn't even seem like ramming with the shield would work.
>>
>>34882853

Mio's hand is cool against yours - But you can feel the delicious tension that thrums through her at your touch, as her fingers curl against your own. "Ah-" the sound of surprise she makes is low, warm...Until you give a little squeeze, the roses blooming in her cheeks. For a moment, she forgets herself - The smile she favors you with is meltingly-soft, unalloyed by artifice or by the shadow of parting; Her hand holds yours for but a few moments, but the warm caress of her gaze lingers for far, far longer.

>>34882800

The Fortune-Teller's tent is something straight from the Arabian Nights - or an approximation of it, the fabric festooned with stars and moons and all the other imagery that you'd expect; There's a sweet, exotic smell in the air, one at odds with the crisp scent of spun sugar, carried downwind from some distance away.

"-Is this the place?" Mio murmurs, out loud - She sounds curious, but a little dubious...Until she glances to the side, at the sound of children's voices...Her breath coming in an indrawn hiss. As you'd expect, there's a group of kids clustered around a cotton-candy stall - A flash of red catching your eye, a vaguely-familiar figure lounging against the wall, with the expression of someone who's in over his head...But determined to see things through anyway.

"...Are they...?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
Reasearch proposal, incorporating the largest confluences of thought:

Reactive Plating
Choir Beacon
Tempest Hardshell/Superheavy Chassis?
>>
>>34882914
>a vaguely-familiar figure lounging against the wall, with the expression of someone who's in over his head

Bishamon?!
>>
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>>34882914

(My apologies, forgot my image.)
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>>34882924
>Reasearch proposal, incorporating the largest confluences of thought:

Reactive plating, Choir beacon
Save for next thread, because:
1)Vehicles were proposed (that puts us below 50%)
2) we will probably get more research unlocks, and updated artifact modules for abruption jets and (ugh) lucifer bits.

For everyone else wanting hellion types:
Which one do we want most?
Sniper sounds useful, Air Superiority sounds awesome, because jets always are, and DESTROYERS probably live up to their name.

is there anything that jumps out to anyone over the others?
>>
>>34882881
Don't think so. I'm pretty sure that the alternative bits are their own thing, which is why we could potentially load multiple types of bits at the same time. It'd be like having two Assault Shroud mods, not upgrading one mod to work like another.

>>34882900
Reactive Plating is its own thing. It doesn't heal, it just gets stronger against repeated attacks. Dunno if it would persist across battles.

>>34882914
Red headed male? Enfer? With the kids from the orphanage? AHahahahahahaha.

"Isn't that Ren? How do you think he's handling the kids?"

>>34882924
You know, how about Arc Chargers in place of the Choir Beacon? It gives every Hellion model the ability to make lightning.

I'd really prefer all of the model types we can afford at once, but free attacks and energy goes a long way (plus more Scrander upgrades and maybe improving the lightning gun).
>>
>>34882959
Two upgrades and saving seems reasonable to me.
>>
>>34882914
>>34882969
Oh, that's who it is. I am terrible at remembering character descriptions. Go over and pester him, then.
>>
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>>34882959
>Is there anything that jumps out to anyone over the others?
Pic related. They're the only Hellion model left from the original list we haven't started.

>>34882971
I'd rather use all we can right now, maybe even on another Relic. We get enough to buy a vehicle every charge time, there's no point to saving it if we want to do research.
>>
>>34882969
>You know, how about Arc Chargers in place of the Choir Beacon? It gives every Hellion model the ability to make lightning.

Mmmh. thats just basic hellions, not all models, right? We *could* get four researches - but there's not much difference between one now, and one later., and i think the fluidity would benefit us next thread.
>>
>>34882969
We could start all three. Between the two, I don't think it matters much, since both are a universal increase in output. My desire for the Choir Beacon comes from a hope that it lets us 'remote control' our bits, so to speak. Let them fulfill a spy role, or let us prepare snipers before a meeting.
>>
>>34882959
I'm in favor of snipers.
I fucking love snipers.
>>
>>34882995
>I'd rather use all we can right now, maybe even on another Relic. We get enough to buy a vehicle every charge time, there's no point to saving it if we want to do research.

Why not the quantum lab? It'll probably passively speed things up slightly, with an option to supercharge more - we only finish 2 topics at a time(has anyone else noticed that?), so it'll be a WHILE before we get to the ones we're starting now.
Burning through the list faster seems more viable; but we'd have to commit to using it, otherwise its wasted.
>>
Ok, simple thought:
We need all Hellion types first. This allows us to optimize our path through the list, as we will know all of our basic research options.
Second step would be all Hellion researches.
>>
>>34882914


>>Mio colors, slightly, and looks away - Then at you. She bites her lip, lowering her head - As if she's about to say something...Only to draw away, at the last moment.
Free: nudge her with an elbow - gently, not ribbing, but a 'we noticed that ' and... rub her back lightly, reassuringly - she's not good with crowds and people - so comfort her a bit and maybe she'll open up.
>[ ] Free: In general.
Look around, see who else we know is there
Say hi to people we know
See if mio's goal-target is here
and... do damage control if the tri-stars show up and start talking about the game!
Rummage in our pack for the sketchbook - don't draw it out, just check if its in our inventory.

>>34882914
>"-Is this the place?"
>"...Are they...?"

"I... think so. It certainly looks like it. say.. don't we know them?"

Quick! table the research talk! now is time for story and feels!

remind me: Kouichi: bishamon, or our non-player friend who has the anti-red world aura?
>>
>>34883039
At some point along the line, I think we probably need to start actually BUILDING Hellions, instead of just endlessly researching them.

Because, and this is just a suspicion I have, I think that we won't be able to reach the end of the research tree.
>>
>>34883061
>remind me: Kouichi: bishamon, or our non-player friend who has the anti-red world aura?
Kazuya is the bro.
Bishamon is the butcher.
>>
>>34883001
The basic Hellion upgrades benefit ALL Hellion types.

Actually wait, let me check that: OP, would the Chayots and other non-humanoid gain the benefits of the Arc Charger and Shrike Fletchette Projector upgrades?

>>34883018
Luck of the dice I'm almost certain. We have completed three at once in the past, haven't we?

Hadn't thought about passives from the infrastructure upgrades. I'd say that's a big assumption to make. Besides, like someone said last thread we're most constrained mostly by energy, not time.

Speaking of, if there IS interest in getting a vehicle, why not start Vehicle Bay 2 this thread and get whatever ride we want next thread? Means an extra round of charging and no practical difference in how soon we use it.

>>34883039
That's basically my thinking. We're almost done with the basic model upgrades, too.
>>
... okay, thought:

>[ ] NITRO BOOSTER (The Armory Guardian can now mimic the Cobalt Booster's enhancement functionality.)
>[ ] BAY I - RED COMET (SUPERHEAVY VEHICLE - 120% COBALT BOOSTER to summon.)

Can a cobalt guardian summon itself, so we don't have to pay the (entire) summoning cost?
Because if so......
>>
>>34882969
>Red headed male? Enfer? With the kids from the orphanage? AHahahahahahaha
That gives me an idea...
If it's really Enfer, we could prepare a little note to him.
"Interested in a job?
Plant a resource collector, get a bunch of guns for free."
>>
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>>34883077
>Have the Comet summon itself.
>It teleports to exactly where it was.
>>
>>34883077
Unlikely.
It's probably like a SupCom Quantum Gateway - It requires power on both sides, in contrast to the ACU spawn. Which is why SCUs are more powerful - They can't spawn in and require quantum gateways instead.
>>
>>34883083

Do we really want to say that when mio's around?
That being said - hell yeah we should try to acquire enfer's services against the smilers, because he hates them after they hung him out to dry and die. He was too honorable to betray them right back - for free - but we have things we can offer him now.
>>
>>34883077
The beacon summons the vehicle to its own location, so unless you want the Comet to summon itself to to Hollow Sun I'd say the answer is no.
>>
>>34883095
No he doesn't. He actually agrees with what they're trying to do. He even told us this the day they betrayed him.
>>
>>34883096
However, wouldn't that grant it a blink ability, allowing it to evade an attack by teleporting to its own position?

>>34883103
He'd still play for the highest bidder as long as it isn't a direct attack on the Smilers, though.
>>
>>34883071
...That's actually smart. I'll vote for Vehicle Bay 2, in preparation for our new bike/jetbike.
>>
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>>34883092
Activate the OMEGA THIRTEEEEEEEEN!

>>34883093
Well, thats why i said 'defray'. Obviously there would need to be some energy sent from OUR side - but if we can pay less than 120%, and have the other side pick up the slack once the initial wormhole is established?
Yeah, that's kickass. Even halving it would make it significantly more usable.
More importantly, it would let the guardian -recall- itself to the hollow sun - which has nice synergy with an AI Upgrade. Its able to take on missions on its own - or even just essence mine - and teleport back to the sun for rearms and repairs.
>>
>>34883125
So, one Hellion type, a 15% upgrade and the vehicle bay?
>>
>>34883139
Sounds good to me.
>>
>>34883126
>More importantly, it would let the guardian -recall- itself to the hollow sun - which has nice synergy with an AI Upgrade.
The one time we used it we actually had a recall.
This actually implies that it's the target destination that needs to provide power, not the object itself.
>>
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>>34882969
>>34882986

> "Isn't that Ren? How do you think he's handling the kids?"

You've only seen him once before - And then, only in passing - but it's unmistakeably the same person. The slouch, the red hair, the rather jaded expression - As if he's seen everything the world has to offer, and it hasn't impressed him - yep, that's Ren, all right. He's certainly that kind of character.

As you watch, he grimaces slightly as he hands over another sheaf of notes to the vendor - You have to admit, he's taking it rather well - reaching down to tousle the hair of a boy who's barely up to his waist. There's an odd fondness to his motions, quite at odds with his demeanour-

"Ren...?" Mio begins - Then recognition flickers in her eyes. "-It *is*-!"

> Go over and pester him, then.
> "I... think so. It certainly looks like it. say.. don't we know them?"

"It's the *kids*-!" And like that, Mio's off. They hear her before they see her; A little girl tugs at Ren's jeans, and he turns abruptly - An alert flash to his eyes - relaxing only when he sees Mio, canting his head to consider you with a level stare.

"Mio-neechan~"
"Oneechan~"
"Mio-san~"
"And the scary oniisan too-"

...Hang on, are they talking about *you*?

The kids - There's about a dozen of them - cluster around Mio, just generally getting underfoot the way kids usually do: She goes to her knees as they swarm around her - Happily preoccupied with patting heads, wiping candyfloss-stained mouths and noses, and all the mysterious things that teenaged girls are reduced to around children...Especially cute children, it has to be said.

-It seems like a good idea to hang back a little.

(Continued)
>>
>>34883139
Can the 15 be a Red Comet upgrade? We're doing other stuff but it's just sitting there.
>>
>>34883139
-Bay
-Tempest/Helios/Superheavy
-Plating/Charger/Beacon
>>
>>34883156
If it is, I want wall climbing.
>>
>>34883066
This is true. Endgame is going to come around and we're not going to have our 'I Win' button ready, because we spent too long pissing about with research and not enough time on production.
>>
>>34883156
>>34883159

Do we really want a vehicle bay, when we can get jetpacks from our virtue units?
>>
If were still looking at Relics to be bought, the Skyshaper and Koleos still need looking at.
On top of that, there was support to buying the Signal Booster, for both basic utility and the fact it works with Max Joker.
>>
>>34883159
Of these, I like the tempest and plating best.
>>
>>34883156
Later.
Hellions are priority, as much as it pains me.

Vote:
Helios, Plating
>>
>>34883170
I don't, but it seems like a lot of people do.
>>
>>34883171
I think the idea is that we want to get research out of the way, as it takes time in contrast to relics.

>>34883169
We need to get all value out of the Sun before we reduce its energy gain.
>>
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>>34883110
>However, wouldn't that grant it a blink ability, allowing it to evade an attack by teleporting to its own position?
There's a time delay between when the Comet is summoned, and when it arrives. And during the transfer it can be disrupted. If it's disrupted, it explodes violently.

>>34883166
How about invisibility?

>>34883170
This is a rhetorical question, right?
>>
>>34883191
>We need to get all value out of the Sun before we reduce its energy gain.

The point he was tryign to make is the 'cuttoff point' is going to be BEFORE then.

If time is of the essence -and all signs point to the apocalypse culminating with the end of the festival - which is in one day, then we need to squeeze everything out via Research Lab and crank up production yesterday
>>
>>34883201
>How about invisibility?
Good but later. Also, too fragmented right now. If we do an upgrade, it needs to be a force multiplier.
Let's keep to the plan and do Hellions first, though.
Either the plating or the lightning will be good for us.
>>
>>34883152

The reunion's a happy one - The kids have so many questions, about what Mio's doing here, how long she'll be staying, what she's doing with you (At which she colors, and demurs) whether school's like this *every* day, and...

And Ren looks at you, judges, and relaxes.

Tug, tug.

You look down. There's a little girl tugging at your jeans - With the big, naturally distrustful eyes that all children have for those taller than them.

"Oniichan~" she begins, doubtfully - Rather tentatively, as if afraid of your response. Then:

"Oniichan...Will Megumi-oneechan be coming back?" she lowers her gaze, biting her lip - One hand holding a rather threadbare plush toy, which shows all the signs of second or third-hand use as she cuddles it a little closer to herself, for moral support.

"-We...all of us - We *really* miss her..."

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34883191
>We need to get all value out of the Sun before we reduce its energy gain.

This logic is going to render our superweapon worthless.

Why does producing Hellions not have value? We need to start building them, because I suspect that there isn't going to be a slow transition to endgame - We're going to wake up to armageddon.

And then it'll be too late, and we'll be screwed because people wanted to finish the research tree before actually building anything, and that strategy NEVER wins.
>>
>>34883240
>[ ] Free

Kneel down - bring us down to her level - show everyone we can be good with kids.

"Hey there. That's.. up to her. I hope so, though. that's a nice teddy bear."
>>
>>34883240
>"I hope so, but... It's her choice, in the end. Maybe if you wish really hard, then she'll hear it."
>>
>>34883251
>Why does producing Hellions not have value?
Because their benefit is extremely vague.
We have no idea when and if we'll be using the Hollow Sun.
My best guess is that it can attack the place in the memory or something.

If we want to maximize our chance for the endgame, I'd actually suggest GARM upgrades instead of Hellions.
Our tank is loyal and has a higher scale of power than we do. It can also be immediatly useful, in contrast to the Hellions.
It's not an entire army, but it's part of an army. Just like we are.
>>
>>34883232
>. If we do an upgrade, it needs to be a force multiplier.

Okay, so lets pore over the list and figure out what kind of synergies we have.

Obvious things to me:
AI for the Red Comet: Doesn't need to be piloted to be awesome.
All weapon research
Suspensors - double up on heavies for hellions, which are then comboed with buff arrays.
Choir beacon - affects the entire swarm
plating - entire swarm is tougher
erosion field stabiliers - i don't think we've made any Chayot's though

Positron designator - MAYBE. If its an armoryitem, and not a relic - we can hand out skylaser aimers.
Modular frame: Virtue. This makes the Command Units compatable with our armor - which comboes with the Teleport Beacon - we can get a small angel squad, and buff them, WITHOUT firing the gun.
Advent caster: C&C funcions.
Raptor or cycle: Strategic speed to get from point A to point b.
>>
>>34883297
Personally, I'd rather beef up the armory guardian rather than get a new vehicle to split upgrades between.
>>
>>34883232
Actually, my first vote for Comet upgrades is the Gravimetric Nexus.

>>34883240
Crouch down and look her in the eyes. "Megumi is in a dark and lonely place, and she can't find her way home. But as long as she has people to come back to she will. Leave a light on for her, even just a small one, and I'll make sure she comes home."

"Mio, aren't you going to introduce your friends?"

"Hello Ren. How's the arm?"
>>
>>34883312

.... that Tactical Uplink for the Raptor

Tiered upgrades gonne be really expensive tho.
>>
>>34883330

Way, way too overdramatic. I'll veto the first one, but I like the rest.
>>
>>34883297
The day Kraken shows up to the Hollow Sun backed by an army of a few hundred thousand Correcters is coming, and we all know it. Plus whatever the many other horrors they are currently developing. Hell, I'm surprised that we already AREN'T doing periodical raid defense battles against them.

We need both.
>>
>>34883312
>Modular frame: Virtue. This makes the Command Units compatable with our armor - which comboes with the Teleport Beacon - we can get a small angel squad, and buff them, WITHOUT firing the gun.
Er. What compatibility means is that we can replace broken arms and legs with ones from Virute Hellions. Not "Joker gains Virtue-class Hellion subtype".
>>
>>34883349
However, I would love the normal Hellion transformation servoes.
I have a feeling that they grant charging elements.
>>
>>34883340
iunno, i kinda like it

Am I reading this right? In that a fully automated AI, useful in combat situations, cost 30% to 45%?
>>
>>34883349

Transformation servos let us steal their wings.

Give it a choice beacon and just steal all their radios.

>>34883347
>The day Kraken shows up to the Hollow Sun backed by an army of a few hundred thousand Correcters is coming, and we all know it. Plus whatever the many other horrors they are currently developing. Hell, I'm surprised that we already AREN'T doing periodical raid defense battles against them.
>We need both.

What we are actually doing are playing AGAINST the Steriotypical Research Race in a Civilization game.
THey have lots of research, manufacturing, plan, and when it hits its gonna wreck all the competition becaues they were left alone long enough to tech up.
>>
>>34883297
If the benefit to Hellions is extremely vague and we have no idea when and if we'll be using them, and you suggest getting Garm upgrades instead of building Hellions, then WHY ARE WE RESEARCHING HELLIONS

Holy shit! I was under the assumption that we were researching the Hellions so that we could produce them and create an extremely effective shock weapon for the endgame! As it turns out, we're researching them for shits and giggles, and we have no intention of actually doing anything with that research! Good lord, how misguided I was for thinking that it'd be a neat idea to translate the massive amounts of research we are pumping towards them into an actual, tangible benefit!

For fucks sake.
>>
>>34883356
Just looking at the description as-written, I think they boost Hollow Sun weapons.

>>34883357
No, that takes two. First step lets it listen to instructions, second lets it react on its own. Third step makes it good at that.

>>34883373
Transformation servoes lets Joker MAKE them into wings. Remember it's the Tempests that are the flight specialists.
>>
>>34883373
Meanwhile, we are desperately trying to finish the tech tree without bothering to create a solid infrastructure to support the developments we are making.
>>
>>34883373
Wait, did we just get Min-Maxed against?
Did Kraken specifically choose the race that counters our defensive build?
>>
>>34883387
>Just looking at the description as-written, I think they boost Hollow Sun weapons.
Either way, they would be a good way to outfit people with more effective Hellion equipment.
>>
>>34883379
Calm your butthurt.

Much as I agree with you, there's no sense getting mad over this. We've made our case, if people want to continue researching themselves into a bad end, that's their call.
>>
>>34883394

Yeah and we're trying to out-tech the research race, not spam as many cheap units and cost-effective upgrades as possible.

The Yang to his Prokhor Zakharov, i suppose.
>>
>>34883240
>"-We...all of us - We *really* miss her..."
>[ ] Free

"Well, kiddo, that depends on her. But if you ask her really nicely, I think she'll come visit"
>>
>>34883412
...Goddamn.

Do you know the difference between Mio and Megumi?
>>
>>34883253
>>34883267

> "I hope so, but... It's her choice, in the end. Maybe if you wish really hard, then she'll hear it."

Her big eyes go solemn, and she nods.

> "That's.. up to her. I hope so, though. that's a nice teddy bear."

She squeezes it a little tighter. "Oneechan gave it to me, so..."

A glance over her shoulder, at the small knot of kids. Mio's retrieved a napkin from somewhere - dabbing ineffectually but firmly at a chocolate-smeared mouth, turning to address the one tugging at her hair. She looks...relaxed, somehow, despite the busy nature of things.

"Mio-neechan's really nice, but...I want to see Megumi, too..." there's a slight hitch to the little girl's voice - Her big, serious eyes going distant, as she looks up at you. "Naoya-niichan says we'd..." Her brow crinkles, slightly. "-we'd see her again *soon*, but...But-"

> "Mio, aren't you going to introduce your friends?"

"Ah-" Surrounded by children, Mio blinks - But then she smiles. "-Kids, this is Anon-kun; He's..." the faintest pause, as she's clearly searching for the words. "...he's my friend, too. Be nice to him, all right?" There's a slightly anxious note to her voice, anxious but proud - She really does want you to get along with them.

And after that comes the blizzard of questions. How old are you? Where are you from? Do you always look so cool? Do you always look so scary? Are you going to play with them? How about now? What's high school like? What about now?

When one especially sharp kid asks: "Anon-niichan, are you oneechan's boyf-" you're saved, just in time, by Ren's hand on your shoulder. They part before him like the Red Sea before Moses. "All right, all right. Give him some space, you little brats. Let the adults talk for a bit." His voice is gruff, raspy, but there's an affection in it - Even as he gently but firmly retrieves Mio's festival pass from the prying fingers of one of the younger children.

(Continued)
>>
>>34883240
>[ ] Free
after we've talked to the kid, nudge her back to megumi - and smile n wave at her when she turns around to see who's tugging at her skirt. Let her make the decision to invite us in or not

>-It seems like a good idea to hang back a little.
A little doesn't mean all the way! play it by ear.


>>34883420
Mio ran away from home/school, and stayed at the orphanage - and is now back at the school dorms. Duh.
>>
>>34883405
To be honest, spamming units is difficult at the moment, we can't have Hellions leave the Sun for too long, after all.

Also, there shouldn't be anything stopping outsiders from find the sun and laying siege, yeah? Or would Hellions be too useful at that point. Hoh.
>>
>>34883437
There's the fact that the Hollow Sun is permanently cloaked and the key is Red Joker.
>>
>>34883437
Trying to siege the Sun would be pretty stupid, there're no supplies to cut off and it constantly generates energy to repair itself.
>>
>>34883449
>There's the fact that the Hollow Sun is permanently cloaked and the key is Red Joker.

And there's the downside that anyone who frags us gets that key
>>
>>34883429

A safe distance away:

"-Kids. They say all kinds of things." Ren's words are flat, without affect - About as conciliatory as you'd expect. You're not sure if his voice is really like that, or if that's just the way he usually speaks. He smells of engine oil and smoke - A rather volatile combination - and his hands are heavily callused, soot ingrained into his palms.

> "Hello Ren. How's the arm?"

He grimaces. His eyes flit to you, then away.

"-Still attached."

It doesn't stop him from rubbing lightly at his shoulder, but the tone of his voice could mean anything. There's a long, thoughtful pause, as he fixes you with a stare-

"...How much money do you have on you?"

[ ] "About...8000 yen."
[ ] "-You're shaking me down, now? Are you serious?"
[ ] "You didn't come prepared, huh."
[ ] "How's Father Yasuda doing?"
[ ] "It's okay, I don't mind."
[ ] "...She really does have a way with them, doesn't she?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34883431
Let me rephrase this: Do you have any idea who is being talked about? Because it's not Mio.
>>
>>34883466
[ ] "-You're shaking me down, now? Are you serious?"
>>
>>34883457
And Correcters by nature are seemingly infinite.

>>34883449
Something like that feels like something I should have remembered. Oh well, bye-bye HQ Defense mini-game.
>>
>>34883466
>[ ] "You didn't come prepared, huh."
>>
>>34883466
Purposely ignore the question, give him time to reconsider the question
>[X] "...She really does have a way with them, doesn't she?"
>[X] "How's Father Yasuda doing?"

Then, proceed into maybe giving him a hand
>[X] "You didn't come prepared, huh."
>[X] "About...8000 yen."

Also, perhaps propose that job. He plants some essence miners, and we give him guns. He may be a Smiler, but he's probably the most honourable of the lot, and it might lead into other business opportunities. I have been wanting to recruit Bomberman for a while, and this is better than nothing.
>>
>>34883500

Don't reveal anything to him, holy shit. This guy is incredibly dangerous. Even if he's sympathetic, he's still killed dozens of people with phasing bombs.
>>
>>34883466
>[ ] "You didn't come prepared, huh."
>>
>>34883466
>[X] "How's Father Yasuda doing?"
>[X] "...She really does have a way with them, doesn't she?"
>[X] "It's okay, I don't mind."
Hold up four thousands. "This you get because Mio would want me to." Hold up the other four. "This, because I'm hiring you Enfer. I have a device I want planted at Cocytus before the end of the day."
>>
>>34883512
We can still get a "are you interested in a job on the other side?" request off.
>>
>>34883500

Alright, I kinda like this.

Addon the twist:

[x]: "You need to borrow something from me?"
Slightly incredulous/amused.


DONT give him a job opportunity, but .... see what he needs; and what he's willing to give up for it.
we REALLY COULD use hints on the smiler base.
>>
>>34883500
Don't reveal anything right now.
>>
>>34883527

You want to let him know you're the Red Joker? That is an amazingly bad idea.
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>>34883522
Won't we be needing that money for the date?
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>>34883522

Hmn.

We still need cash to live on. Not ALL of it.

I like the style, just halve the amounts.

And.... don't make the offer about the 'device' straight away. See how receptive he is, how much he wants, what he's willing to offer.

But yeah holy shit opportunity to turn enfer.

Be PREPARED to reveal things, but suss him out first.
>>
>>34883530
If not now, we probably won't get another chance.
>>
>>34883540

Yeah, we shouldn't give it ALL up - unless there's an ATM nearby.

>>34883548
>If not now, we probably won't get another chance.
Ding ding ding.

We need to broach the topic right.

"Hey. You on duty on the other side?"
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>>34883512
He's a mercenary. It's his job.

Joker is incredibly dangerous as well.
>>
>>34883522

Vetoing, for the love of god. DO NOT TELL THE SMILER ANYTHING.

Megumi herself made it a point to hide her identity. DON'T TELL HIM ANYTHING.
>>
>>34883540
They do have ATMs in Japan. Portable ones, too. People are spending so much money there has to be one every fifty feet.

>>34883560
>"Hey. You on duty on the other side?"
Champions and simulation bodies only here.

>>34883565
Former Smiler. He was fired. Dramatically, at that.
>>
>>34883565
>Vetoing, for the love of god. DO NOT TELL THE SMILER ANYTHING.

STOP PANICKING, and SEE WHAT HE HAS TO SAY FIRST
Then, play a card or two. If we can do it without him ever seeing our other side.... so be it
(he may also be on autopilot right now so be careful)
>>
>>34883542
>And.... don't make the offer about the 'device' straight away. See how receptive he is, how much he wants, what he's willing to offer.
Good idea.
We need to talk him into it.

"Do you have any jobs to finish right now?"
>>
>>34883540
It might be fine to loan him some money, get a few very minor friend points with him, and the money is probably going to be used on the children anyway.
>>
>>34883565
>>34883538
I'm not voting for the job offer, but I think the arm comment kinda already made him realize the truth.
>>
>>34883565
I really think we could get a lot of use out of hiring Enfer, though.
>>
>>34883575
>(he may also be on autopilot right now so be careful)
He's not a champion, and unless he can steal and keep personalities like Totenaz he's not crossing over within Arcadia.

>>34883587
He's asking for money because he ran out of cash to spoil the kids with.
>>
I will be laughing if this isn't Enfer but someone else.
Because the idea that it's Enfer was based on an assumption during our first encounter.

That said, I hope we are guessing right.
>>
>>34883522

Don't say this outright. We don't want to blow our cover, seriously.
>>
>>34883599
Quite likely, which is why I'm suggesting it, Anon is probably loaded anyway. And I doubt Mio would mind.
>>
>>34883522
Don't be so direct. Just say that you're willing to give him a small job offer so that he isn't in our debt.
>>
>>34883522
I support asking him about a job, but let's be subtle about it. Play our cards right.
>>
>>34883620

I think we have kind of average-ish middle/lower class income. It hasn't really been elaborated upon; but I do recall we were
kind of blown away be ebara's restaurant generousity.
In short, i think its more that cash isn't that important to the quest, so it hasn't really been fleshed out - it only seems to matter cinematically.

>>34883629
Thhhhhhhhhhaaaaat is some good phrasing
>>
>>34883522
>>34883500
Second
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>>34883641
Too bad the "Luck" factor seems to have been phased out of the plot, we would have won a few lotteries at this point.
>>
>>34883629
>>34883640
Yes.

Remember: Subtle.
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>>34883657
Wasn't it just that luck manifested in different ways for different people? Like Joker's popularity with women.
>>
>>34883657

It hasn't. We just won the prize for Mio, in a statistically unlikely shootout. We would have needed four Jokers to win the grand prize, and we got it.
>>
>>34883667
Maybe at first, but most don't seem very fortunate these days. Ebara could have easily made his fortune with that brain of his, and the majority of the girls Joker is close to, are all connected to him anyway!

>>34883685
Ignoring the whole "Anon is a good shot with a gun" thing, anyway.
>>
>>34883657

Well, part of it's symbolic. If we get through the endgame with the hollow sun intact - and the world too - it will likely spell..... great works for us in the near future, once we graduate
>>
>>34883703
We could be the world's best male prostitute.
>>
>>34883697
>Ebara could have easily made his fortune with that brain of his
Wait, what? He did. Several fortunes.

>>34883703
>If we get through the endgame with the hollow sun intact
Firing it will destroy it. That's how it's built, it's a single-use superweapon.
>>
>>34883667
I think it had more to do with twisting fate so that he meets the people needs in favorable circumstances. The popularity is just a side-effect.
>>
>>34883717
Exactly, I'm saying that there is/was a possibility that the "Luck" he gained from the Red had something to do with it. But at the same time, the man could be called a financial genius. He doesn't need it.
>>
>>34882821
>Blacksite Quest when?

Underrated post. Just read that on the archive. Smells like dungeon keeper!
>>
>>34883782
It was awesome and I'm pretty sure JQOP was the QM of it, they should definitely continue it, the thread only slowed down because people went to sleep, and then the QM ran off with nonsense about how it was crap
>>
>>34883742
Every suggestion we've heard about how Essence works says that Essence makes you MORE of what you already were. Kouichi is an excellent swordsman, but with his essence charge he's sublime. Mikogami was driven and brilliant, but his passion reached people because he was a Player. It's not one or the other, Essence charge makes you a person who can take advantage of the opportunities life gives you in your chosen areas.

Until you lose it all at once, of course.
>>
(Gentlemen, my apologies: /tg/ blew up on me, for some reason.)

>[X] "...She really does have a way with them, doesn't she?"

Ren makes a low, noncommittal sound, one that could mean anything. Then:

"-Is that what you think?" His level gaze settles on you. "...Give it a few months, maybe a year. Then we'll see."

>[X] "How's Father Yasuda doing?"

"He's old. Tired. His hip hurts him." Ren fishes in his shirt pocket for a cigarette, more by instinct than by need. He holds one before him, critically - Then grunts, drops it to the ground unlit, his shoes grinding it against the pavement.
"So...Still the same."

>[X] "About...8000 yen."

"Rich kid like you, I expected more." It's hard to tell whether he's mocking you, or whether it's an honest observation. Perhaps a little bit of both.

>[X] "You didn't come prepared, huh."

"-Right. Keeping the little bastards occupied is expensive." His gaze belies his words - Ren's watching the children carefully, even when he's talking to you. His eyes never leave them, wary for any that might be straying. "Took the day off from work. Didn't think the Festival would bleed me this much."

His lip curls upward, in a half-smile. "The old man wanted to bring them. Told him to rest up, instead. Anything to stop them from getting unruly."

Again that glance. "So, what are you? Another white knight? Playing Galahad to feel better about yourself?" Ren turns his head. "First one girl, then another...You like them damaged. Hope you're getting your money's worth."

There's a quiet bitterness to his words that just spills over. You're not sure if he can help himself, despite that level, unblinking stare and affected slouch. Ren is out of place, here - He's far from home, and he despises it.

(Continued)
>>
>>34883809
How much do you think is luck and how much do you think is transformation?
>>
>>34883805
>nonsense about how it was crap

Unfortunately, 7am is about the time JQOP runs out of steam - and probably overly-critical of Trying A New Thing.

Honestly, I'd resume it as a save point - where you log in/out - right before the derail/i thought this was bad - and do a do over.

MMO's have connection desynchs, after all! ever dropped and had to play catchup/or had the server not register actions?
PERFECT excuse
>>
>>34883845
That sounds like the best option anon, I hope JQOP does continue it because it was fucking great
>>
>>34883856
It was a solid 5 out of ten, try again next time. I hope OP does what he thinks is fun.
>>
>>34883805

if anything, i LIKED the thematics. It was a roguelike nod to quests and frankly.... a little edgyness to scare off the summer crowd is good.
TG likes to be the little girl, and engage in waifus and typical tween gamer shit, but there's not a lot of really MATURE players that can handle engaging, more-than-pg storytimes.
Of those I know, most of them play shadowrun, so there's that - but between that, and shadow master's upcoming Edgy Quest, I'm excited someone's gonna do it right, and it will be so so wrong(but fun) doing it.
>>
>>34883831
>"So, what are you? Another white knight?

Hahahahahahahahahaha
>>
>>34883832
Hell if I know. Just from the deaths I say it's mostly the first, but everyone in the quest keeps saying it's changing the people.
>>
>>34883894
>>"So, what are you? Another white knight?

"White's not my color"
>>
>>34883921
>"White is more Kraken's thing, if I'm not mistaken."
>>
>>34883947
Too obvious.
>>
>>34883919

I'd wager a lot of it is, uh, processing the stuff your autopilot does.

Like, bishamon is an -amazing-swordsman who ... autopilots his kendo class to have adventures in the red world.
And yet he techs up in sword technique faster by not being there to benefit from the training.

So I'd wager there's kind of a .... connection between what your autopilot does, and what you do in the red, and essence helps .... enable subconscious integration, and what you're working on in the real

>>34883845
Yeah, connection dropping is another good excuse to have NPC's alive again - sometimes certain ones respawn a limited # of times if you leave and rejoin an area. Good for flagging things in the Tutorial Area
>>
>>34883956
I wonder if Anon was originally a gifted boxer, who's now better with guns.
>>
>>34883956
>And yet he techs up in sword technique faster by not being there to benefit from the training.
Doesn't he use the time disparity between real and Red, and the fact that you don't need to rest artificial muscles, to practice sword forms?
>>
>>34883981
Originally he avoided the real world by spending his life in the Red while his real form was a kendo instructioner, iirc.
>>
>>34883952
Pretty sure the arm comment already tipped him off
>>
>>34884001
So how did we remove his arm, again?
>>
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>>34883966

Since frost cestus's thing is one big punching arm, with a cartridge-based explosion system...
I'd wager he was a professional masterbateur, likely a lonely otaku to.
A hardcore yakuza wankster
A cocknoisseur, if you will
>>
>>34884001
Doesn't matter. It just sounds lame and excessive.
>>
>>34883831

> "White's not my color."

He looks at you.

"Maybe not," he allows. Then - "Maybe not."

The bills crinkle, as you pass them over - He accepts them carefully, quite at odds with his casual attitude.

>>34883640
>>34883664
>>34883629
>>34883641

Ren stops. Just stops, like an engine switching gears.

"I'm in it for the long haul," he says. Utterly flat, his voice deader than ever. "-This is the only day I get off."

He looks past you, raises his voice: "Kids!" then, louder - "-Don't make me ask again, you little bastards." Mio looks up, startled - Heads turning in Ren's direction, his hands shoved into his pockets. "-Stop bothering her already. We're leaving, now."

A collective "Awwww~" comes up - But the children seem to understand. Some of them are already scampering away, towards Ren; A few of them give you curious glances, as if they're aware that something's happened...But they're not sure what.

Ren turns to you, as the tiny group is marshalled together.

"-Word of advice," he says, diffidently. "Stay home tomorrow. And - stay away from her." He nods in Mio's direction, and she returns the gesture, clearly puzzled, looking a little forlorn as she rises to her feet, brushing flecks of dust from her skirt. "What color of knight you are...It doesn't matter. Everyone bleeds red."

"Do we *really* have to go-"

"Yes," Ren says, more sharply than strikes you as necessary. "Come on."

And just like that - With plenty of backward looks - the small group of children moves away, with Ren hanging back to herd them forward. He doesn't look back.

"...What was *that*?" Mio asks, a moment later - She sounds confused, maybe even a little hurt. "Anon-kun...What happened there?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34884029
Oh god.
Frost Cestus was the NEET avatar.
>>
>>34884039

It's not likely. If he's in his second year of high school, he was 11 six years ago. He went through a shattering experience at a very young age.
>>
>>34884036
"Guilty conscience."

"Mio, what's happening tomorrow? Please, don't hide it from me."
>>
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>>34884039
Loading silver cartridge!
>>
>>34884036
>What happened there?
"...You shouldn't make plans for tomorrow.
Remember when I rushed out of the Papillon and the sky turned red?"

>>34884058
I meant in the sense of being fated to be a NEET.
Also, Joker was about ten years old back then. Holy shit.
>>
>>34884036

Wow. He's just all sunshine and smiles, isn't he? Are all the Smilers like this?
>>
>>34884036
"No idea."
"By the way, is anything special planned for tomorrow?"
>>
>>34884087
Fucking hell, just stop.
>>
>>34884087
>Remember when I rushed out of the Papillon and the sky turned red?"
For crying out loud, stop. Veto.
>>
>>34884036
>"Nothing important. Ren can be a little abrasive, but you can't fault his loyalty."

Maybe a touch of bitterness at the end.

Also, take the hint. Endgame is starting tommorow, for the love of god, let's build some Hellions.
>>
>>34884103
That's not it at all. The Smilers are going to make a move on Mio.
>>
>>34884087
>"...You shouldn't make plans for tomorrow.
>Remember when I rushed out of the Papillon and the sky turned red?"

Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah, this is pretty much our LAST CHANCE to mention shit.

Fuck the veto-people who cry no without saying why.

Go for it. Go big or go home
>>
>>34884096
>>34884100
Then tell me, you glorious geniuses, how the fuck you want to keep her save once shit goes down.
She's apparently a target. Do you want to pretend that everything is okay or something?
>>
>>34884118
First of all, by not ruining the date. This is something best left until the end of the day so that there aren't any regrets.
>>
>>34884113

Oh fuck. Yeah. All that essence stored up makes her a GIANT target for the smilers. In fact, thats.... probably how they plan on priming the black joker.

By infecting her. and then letting her awaken; thus spreading ALL that essence into joker-corruption.

Fuck fuck fuck fuck shit.

And she's going to be a target until she dies, or awanes herself and can defend herself.

FUCK
>>
>>34884140
Fine.
Then tell her about the autopilot. NOW.
Otherwise the day might end with us in a fight, which would pretend us from telling her.
Prepare to send an SMS for that situation.
>>
>>34884154
How about telling her that we want to meet at Kotone's chapel after the date and talk?
>>
>>34884144
Something like that. Except we know that the dead can't produce Essence of their own. Fun fact: The two characters in this quest who've worn a veil are Kotone and Hellebore's armor. I think they're going to make Mio into Kotone's vessel.

>>34884176
Make the chapel the last stop.
>>
>>34884036
>[ ] Free

".... Bus fare for the kids. Too much cotton candy. But yeah, there was something else too."

Pull her aside, then.>>34884087
>"...You shouldn't make plans for tomorrow.
>Remember when I rushed out of the Papillon and the sky turned red?"
"You... keep asking me how I know things. I'll tell you, if you want, but first - this is important"
Capital i's, hands on her shoulders, eye contact.

>>34884154
This is incredibly valid too. Maybe tell her as we're talking away from the crowds?
>>
So, how will we protect Mio?
Knowing the environment, this is likely to be an IRL attack, considering that they likely don't have many champions.
Though an attack through Arcadia is still possible. Which would be bad, considering the limiter.

Still, what do we have IRL?

>>34884176
You know, if every instance of "let us talk" traumatizes her, she'll turn into a really fucking bad girlfriend. She will fear all honest 1on1 talk if you do this once or twice more.
>>
>>34884197
>"You... keep asking me how I know things. I'll tell you, if you want, but first - this is important"
>Capital i's, hands on her shoulders, eye contact.
This is not the time.
>>
>>34884195
>Make the chapel the last stop.
Good idea.
I'm in favor of that.

Autopilot talk needs to happen prior, though. The chapel might create a Red encounter.
>>
>>34884198
>Still, what do we have IRL?
Carnifex and Misericode.
>>
>>34884195
>Something like that. Except we know that the dead can't produce Essence of their own. Fun fact: The two characters in this quest who've worn a veil are Kotone and Hellebore's armor. I think they're going to make Mio into Kotone's vessel.

Fuck. Okay.

So we just discovered their endgame.

>>34884198
>You know, if every instance of "let us talk" traumatizes her, she'll turn into a really fucking bad girlfriend. She will fear all honest 1on1 talk if you do this once or twice more.
Only cuz people make -shitty- suggestions, and don't let wata or other socially competent posters make the pitch.

But yeah, this is where we figure out how to make her not die, and save the world.

The easiest way is to make her able to defend herself, honestly.
And frankly, I don't know why we didn't see this coming - Kraken can command correctors, she's shielded by corrector pets.
They plan to make her kidnap herself - or at the very least, make her red world automated defenses turn on each other.

>>34884210
World doesnt end on your schedule. Make time, or help brainstorm - you don't get to say 'no' without helping when the world's at stake.
>>
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>>34884074
>>34884090

> "Mio, what's happening tomorrow? Please, don't hide it from me."
> "By the way, is anything special planned for tomorrow?"

"-Um." A pause, as Mio seems to consider this - Her brow furrowing, in honest confusion. "...Tomorrow - It's just the last day of the festival, that's all. There's...the plays, the award ceremony, some s-speeches..."

> "No idea."

"Haaa..." she exhales, softly. "...Ren-san can be like that, sometimes. You never know what's bothering him, until..."

Mio's voice trails off, and her slim shoulders lift in a little shrug. "-Well, don't worry about it, Anon-kun. Actually - I think he kind of liked you."

Seriously?

"Mmm. That's the most he's said to anyone...Ever. Most people, he just ignores."

That's something to think about. The thoughtful silence lingers, and then - To cover the brief pause - Mio says:

"So-" A little hurriedly, as if to preserve the mood - "...Don't let it worry you, Anon-kun. For now - Where should we go next?" Mio seems to draw a bit of her old cheer from the festive atmosphere; Her gaze settling lightly on you, almost imploring.

[ ] The Fortune-Teller.
[ ] Your school's booth.
[ ] The chapel.
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34884239
>[ ] The Fortune-Teller.

This could set the mood for 'spooky shit' we're revealing later.
Also its more private than a public square
>>
>>34884198
They're going to attack once the Chalice Queen is crowned, after the limiter is down. Unless they know how to break the system.

Protip: They know how to break the system.

>>34884217
It won't.

>>34884239
Let her pick one event and we'll pick the last. I say chapel for ours.
>>
>>34884195
Oh fuck

How do we protect Mio?
>>
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>>34884039
Iunno

In the end, I don't think much has changed about how people see the red joker.
>>
>>34884239
>The Fortune-Teller.
>>
>>34884239
>[ ] The Fortune-Teller.
We already decided on that direction.
The school booth comes next.
Chapel is last.
>>
>>34884238
>The easiest way is to make her able to defend herself, honestly.
She won't be capable of defending herself anyway. Even with immense power she'll be more helpless than Haze before the training.
>>
>>34884273

Make her the Chalice Queen. Tell her everything on the third day.
>>
>>34884239
>[X] The Fortune-Teller.
>>
>>34884262
>They're going to attack once the Chalice Queen is crowned, after the limiter is down. Unless they know how to break the system.
>Protip: They know how to break the system.

there's that place we met the Doctor - who said he was going to proclaim his love for Mio at the end of the festival, if we didn't - that ALSO didn't have a Red World presence at it. We COULDN'T transform.

Seems like that's a good bet. Combo with real world security.

Also it'll be when we ARENT able to protect her, since we'll be at the chalice ceremony.

Which means we need her permission to give her the armor so she don't get ganked AHEAD of time.

>>34884296
If they get to her before the ceremony, though, shit's fucked

We may need to pre-empt the last fight, and seek out the other contenders in the middle of the night, NOW, just to throw off their timetable.

.... taking bishamon or kraken out of the running with the Athame would speed up the elimination matches
>>
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>>34884273
Give her [C]ontrol.

>>34884291
Do you think the Hyades are capable of defending themselves? They're a system access class, not front fighters. Even Hellebore implied as much.

>>34884324
Uh, that place is directly over the Corrector Hive/Fissure. If she's going to be pulled into the Red World anyway, literally anywhere would be better.
>>
>>34884239
>[ ] Free
"Okay. I'll... tell you what that was about, once we're away, okay? You keep asking me how I know things, and.... I don't want to say too much, but that was one of those moments. I won't let it get in the way of our time together, though .. "
>>
>>34884337
Haha, okay

Let's stick the armour on Mio

She's better off traumatised than whatever the Smilers have planned for her.
>>
>>34884337
>Give her [C]ontrol.

Seems like that's the best way.

>>34884346
>She's better off traumatised than whatever the Smilers have planned for her.

WELL WHY DONT WE FUCKING TALK TO HER ABOUT IT.

Also, being outside the Chapel, is a good place to talk about the message from her dead mom, after loosening the mood with a Fortune Teller, after promising her The Answers She Wants a la >>34884342
>>
>>34884342
This is fucking painful to read.
>>
>>34884239
You know, we technically alternated what we've chosen to do during the festival. We went to the shooting range, then she chose the cafe. We chose the Fortune teller, she chooses the next place. Just as long as we can make it to the chapel.
>>
>>34884239
>[ ] Free

Lean in and say quieter. "Anyway away from there. I'll tell you what happened later, promise - and remind me - do you know a good place to get away from a crowd?"
>>
>"-Is that what you think?" His level gaze settles on you. "...Give it a few months, maybe a year. Then we'll see."

That right there. That's the tip-off. Ren is an idiot, but he's a loyal idiot. He's trying to warn us what they're planning to do. Combine it with

>"-Word of advice," he says, diffidently. "Stay home tomorrow. And - stay away from her." He nods in Mio's direction, and she returns the gesture, clearly puzzled, looking a little forlorn as she rises to her feet, brushing flecks of dust from her skirt. "What color of knight you are...It doesn't matter. Everyone bleeds red."

And it becomes very clear what he thinks we're going to do. So let's protect Mio and make her the Chalice Queen.
>>
>>34884369
Then you do better

High notes to hit:
There WAS something there, and it wasn't just her
Promise Answers When She Asks
Go Somewhere With Less Crowds/More Private
Continue Date

>>34884384
>So let's protect Mio and make her the Chalice Queen.
BIG problem

>>34884262
>They're going to attack once the Chalice Queen is crowned, after the limiter is down. Unless they know how to break the system.
>Protip: They know how to break the system.

We are going to be Occupied during this. THey have set things up in such a way that we cannot be in the same place to protect her.

And if they get to her before the queen is crowned, we're too late - or it feeds the infection she already has. Either way, bad end.

We need to Athame bishamon, get him out of the tournament, and put the tri-stars on bodyguard duty. Give them the tank, get our allies, and tell them it ssome end of the world shit.
>>
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>>34884249
>>34884285
>>34884290
>>34884303

Since you're already here...Mio seems determined not to let the events of the day affect her - Her cheery smile returns, as you step into the tent together.

Inside, it's dark. Not true dark, but the kind of twilight gloom that makes everything look mysterious. The flickering lamplight shimmers across glass; A chiming sound, like distant glass bells, echoing hollowly. "Oh-" Mio murmurs, almost to herself - Her gaze directed upwards, at the ornaments that are stirred by the momentary breeze.

They're flowers. Violets, lillies, roses, foxgloves and daffodils and hyacinths, made of glass or crystal - Spun or carved, you can't tell, but they counterfeit life perfectly...As if grown in some secret crystal garden.

A voice, from somewhere ahead. There's a table before you, and a figure in shapeless robes; The spicy, herbal smell grows stronger, twin ornate chairs already laid out before the blue velvet drapes.

"Welcome, welcome," comes a voice - A voice as elusive as it is friendly. You can't even make out the figure's hands - It's wearing gloves, though the fingers are long and shapely. "...My final guests for the day." A low, satisfied sigh; "-Please, take a seat - I've been waiting for you."

[ ] "Those flowers...They're beautiful."
[ ] "-Who are you?"
[ ] "You...knew we were coming?"
[ ] "Actually...I've changed my mind."
[ ] (To Mio) "...Are you sure about this?"
[ ] Take a seat.
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34884445
>[X] "Those flowers...They're beautiful."
>[X] "You...knew we were coming?"
>[X] Take a seat.
>>
>>34884445
>[ ] Take a seat.
>>
>>34884445
[ ] "Those flowers...They're beautiful." In reflex

[ ] (To Mio) "...Are you sure about this?" to make sure she's okay with this.

[ ] Free: Squeeze mio's hand, put an arm around her while we go through this. Together. Sweet and.... whatever she chooses to draw from this
>>
>>34884445
This is either going to be Alura or Hellebore, just watch.
>>
>>34884492
Putting the arm around is really excessive. Just holding her hand is more than enough.
>>
>>34884445
>"You...knew we were coming?"


Is there anyone in this city who doesn't have superpowers?
>>
>>34884445
>[X] "-Who are you?"
>[X] "You...knew we were coming?"

>>34884492
Hand is fine, arm is less so. It's not really culturally acceptable, and boys are not supposed to playing with Seisin girls.
>>
>>34884526
>>34884528
>>[X] "You...knew we were coming?"
>>"You...knew we were coming?"
Why the hell would you ask a Fortune teller this?
>>
>>34884557
Tradition.
>>
>>34884557
It's one of those cliches that you just have to fall into.
>>
>>34884557
To pretend to be retarded.
>>
>>34884528
>Hand is fine, arm is less so. It's not really culturally acceptable, and boys are not supposed to playing with Seisin girls.
yeah but we're in private.


HEADS UP: We are missing a golden opportunity. Enfer knows. He KNOWS. He knows their plan! and all it is is a Reap away. We could chase Enfer back to the orphanage, beat him up, and tear the information from his brain - then come up with a counter to it inside of a day.
Its our ONE chance to derail the apocalypse, cancel it, get ahead of that train in a way nobody on their side knows is coming.
We're just not thinking aggressively, or pro-actively enough for it
>>
>>34884625
No one wants to kill Enfer, he's a pretty cool guy both in and out of the Red.
>>
>>34884625
>yeah but we're in private.
We're not.
>>
>>34884625
Enfer is a pretty cool dude, though.
>>
>>34884625

Ooh. Ambush and reap enfer.

Fuck. I'm thinking about those kids, and ten im' thinking about their future in a world poisoned by the black joker, where kraken rules the world, and thinking 'he's willingly shepherding them into it'

What a DICK.
Fuck being a cool guy, he's a total asshole once you examine his motivations.
"hey, can you take money to capture and soul rape a pre-teen girl" "yeah sure." "you know money's going to be useless in the next week or so, right" "Sure, whatever."
>>
>>34884655
We don't know his motivations.
>>
>>34884649

Are you forgetting when he tried to bomb the papillion to get to mio?

Because he's not cool at all, he's a twat
>>
>>34884674

he's a mercenary, duh
>>
>>34884675
He was going after the Tower wasn't he?
>>
>>34884704
Was he? Because it sure looked like he was gunning for mio at her work

At the very least, if he wiped out mageara, it would make taking her later easier.
>>
>>34884692
He wasn't working for the Smilers for the money, though. He was doing it because Pazuzu supposedly has a "way out".
>>
>>34884718
Did the Smilers even know Mio then? We overheard him and Asura talking, what did they say?
>>
>>34884718
Mageara wasn't his aim either. The thing jumped in mid-battle and attacked him by surprise. He obvious wasn't aiming for Mio that one time.
>>
>>34884445
>YOU HAVE CONTROL

I need to go, op, but....

Please, for the love of fuck, have us talk to mio about important shit. Somehow, some way, find a way to bring it up, or set the scene, and prompt people to tell the tale as she makes bedroom eyes at us and begs for answers - actual answers, not evasions.

Consider this a pre-voted veto against all the naysayers who will same-fag 'lol no' and 'not the time' and all other generic, unhelpful excuses when the time is right.

You can't give us the tools to defuse the apocalypse, and then let waifu warriors, samefags, troll, and shit-starters get in the way of actually trying.

Its not in character for the joker. Don't let him be railroaded by players who can't dialogue for shit.

Please.

Art bro out.
>>
> [X] "Those flowers...They're beautiful."

A chuckle. "-They say one grows in the Queen's garden, for every path not taken."

"*Who* says?" Mio asks, her voice curious - Curious, and a little awed.

A soft laugh. "Just a legend, little princess. Just a legend."

> [X] Free: Squeeze mio's hand.

"Uuuu-" Mio looks faintly troubled, now - As if she's beginning to have second thoughts. But when your hand slips into hers, she squeezes back - Almost without thinking - grateful for the comfort.

> [X] "You...knew we were coming?"

"-Ohhhh, with craft and guile and shadows to aid me. Oh yes, I knew you were coming."

A low, husky laugh. "I could hear the two of you from outside. That, by itself, does not a mystery make."

> [X] Take a seat.

And you do. The chairs are padded, a little worn, but exquisitely comfortable. The herbal smell grows stronger, still...It's actually quite pleasant, lingering in the air like a haze.

"Now...It's customary to ask what you're seeking. A mere formality, really - But I find it cuts down on complaints. A lot." Rather dryly. "So - What would you know? Love, fortune, wealth..."

Fabric rustles, as the shapeless figure turns towards Mio.

"-You're going to ask about love anyway, little princess. Might as well be out with it."

Mio starts, in her seat - Startled at being addressed directly, though she does her best to hide it. There's an embarrassed stammer to her voice, though her hands are folded on her lap - "But - But I'm *not*..." she says, belatedly - With a shy, furtive glance in your direction, her head lowered to hide her blush.

"Then...'love'?"

A pause, a faint rustling. Then:

"-I see a wedding in your future, little princess," comes the voice, low and kindly. "A wedding, and happiness."

Now, *that's* got Mio's attention. She's bolt upright in her seat, now - Her lips shaping the words-

(Continued)
>>
>>34884675
A job is a job. He's loyal to his contract.
>>
>>34884766
inb4 suffering
>>
>>34884766
>I see a wedding in your future, little princess
Fuck that fortune teller
>>
>>34884766

"...Already, you bear his gift," the voice continues. "Beneath the light of the stars, his truest feelings will be made clear."

...You swear the hood twitched in your direction. Or perhaps it was just your imagination.

"Ah-" A complex melange of emotions flits across Mio's face. She leans forward - Letting her hair fall over her face, to hide her expression. "...If it's like that, then..." Mio murmurs, almost to herself - In the flickering light, it's impossible to tell what she's thinking.

"As for you-" There's a thump. A rattle.

"As for *you*, I'll have to get out the glass."

The gloved hands recede. They return, a moment later, with a small sighting glass - A thing framed in wood, very old, that catches a violet gleam in the light. Curiously, while held up like a magnifying lens, it looks leaded, like a fragment from a stained-glass window.

"-What will it be? Love? Fortune? Wealth?"

[ ] Love
[ ] Fortune
[ ] Wealth
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34884766
Well, that all but confirms the theory. Smilers are going to use Mio to accomodate Kotone's wedding, somehow.

Fuck that.
>>
>>34884875
"Happiness."
>>
>>34884875
>I'd prefer not to know
>>
>>34884875
>[x] Fortune
>>
>>34884875
>[ ] Fortune
>>
>>34884890
I'll go with this. The Red's made people rich, lucky, and given them love of a sort, but it's never made anyone happy.
>>
>>34884875
>"Victory."
>>
>>34884875
>[ ] Love
>>
>>34884966
This

We need more hints
>>
>>34884875
>[X] Love
>>
>>34884961
...Yeah, that's good.

Happiness.
>>
>>34884875
Love will lead to talk about Hecate, I'd wager.

I would like something along the line of "endgame" or "conclusion".

>>34884890
Isn't that basically the same as fortune?
>>
>>34884875

>[x] Love
>>
>>34884875
>A thing framed in wood, very old, that catches a violet gleam in the light.
Yeah, shit.
What if that's Pazuzu?
>>
>>34884961
That's pretty similar to my thinking.

>>34885007
Fortune is luck, or opportunity, or chance. Doesn't have to be good, unless the fortune teller wants repeat business.
>>
>>34885047
Yeah, voting for happiness.
>>
>>34885040
He wouldn't have delicate fingers.
>>
>>34885071
Might have, never know
>>
>>34884875
>[X] Fortune
>>
>>34884966
Under rated post.

Seconding.

Clarity also works
>>
>>34884966
Fuck yes thinking outside the box
>>
Going to have to go with

Happiness.
>>
I've been living under a rock - is Endgame really coming soon? All those HS research unstarted, the upgrade paths untaken, and those Hellions unproduced... the Red Joker Army isn't as intimidatingly large or over-equipped as imagined.
>>
>>34885217

"Hmmmm. Happiness...That's rather complicated. So many ask about their tomorrows...But never for what might make them happy."

There's a thoughtful note to the shapeless voice, now...Almost contemplative, as if mulling over your question.

You get the feeling someone's looking at you through the glass - Very, very intently.

"Happiness is found in letting go," the voice says, finally. "Great wealth will slip through your fingers-" as if in echo, the slender fingers of the voice's right hand curl upwards, like a dying spider - "But through your loss, you will obtain victory."

"You bear fortune beyond belief...But through the loss of fortune, you will find love."

"Already, there is one who loves you - Who has endured your trials and travails at your side." And Mio stirs, slightly, in her seat - "...But through the end of love..."

"-You will find your heart."

A portentuous silence descends.

"...What does *that* mean?" Mio says - Her voice a little shaky, a little confused. "I...don't really understand *any* of..." she stops, mid-sentence, and just sighs. "Well...Thank you for that-"

(Continued)
>>
>>34885228
>"Great wealth will slip through your fingers-"
Put Hollow Sun at full output *right now*?

>"You bear fortune beyond belief...But through the loss of fortune, you will find love."

Does this refer to our equipment or our essence?
The Red Joker armor?

>"Already, there is one who loves you - Who has endured your trials and travails at your side."
Cybele? Mio?

>"...But through the end of love..."
>"-You will find your heart."
Sounds like something with the Athame.
Remove Cybele's link? Hellebore's link?
>>
>>34885228

"No, little princess. Thank *you*."

The shapeless, hooded figure nods at her - With a wheezing cough that makes Mio flinch, just a little, more surprised than repelled. When the gloved hand moves away, something gleams on the table - The complex blossom of a glass Zinnia flower, the petals milky-white, translucent.

The crystal bloom chimes, softly, as it catches the light.

"And for you, young man - A gift for *your* princess." There seems to be a strange emphasis on the word just before the last - A note of warning, as the hands withdraw.

"-It's time for you to leave."

[ ] "Uh...I don't have any money-"
[ ] "...You're giving this to me?"
[ ] "What is that?"
[ ] "-But I had more questions..."
[ ] Leave
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL
>>
>>34885389
>[X] "...You're giving this to me?"
> "Well... It's cryptic, but I expected that. Thank you."
>[X] Leave
>>
>>34885389
>[ ] "What is that?"
"What am I paying you with?"
Clearly, there is some kind of hidden karmic burden or something.
>>
>>34885228
>"Happiness is found in letting go
That's actually much less cryptic than I thought it'd be.

>>34885389
>[X] "What is that?"
"From the queen's garden, for the path not taken?"
>>
>>34885493
>That's actually much less cryptic than I thought it'd be.
If you have a plan, please tell us this time.
>>
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>>34885533

> [X] "...You're giving this to me?"

"To hold, for another."

> [X] "What is that?"
> [X] "From the queen's garden, for the path not taken?"

"-Indeed. And why - It is but a glass flower. Chiefly decorative, and recreational - To catch the light delightfully, and make a sound pleasing to the ear."

> "What am I paying you with?"

"I think, young man, that you have already paid enough."

> "Well... It's cryptic, but I expected that. Thank you."
> [X] Leave

It's a true relief, to emerge from the gloom of the tent back into the light of the afternoon sun - A sigh teased from Mio's lips, as she turns to regard you. There's a lightness to her, somehow - Her smile returned, her eyes warm, soft...But turned inward, as if she's privy to a long-cherished secret.

"-Let's go, Anon-kun~" she says - Holding her hand out to you, the flush lingering in her cheeks. "...to where everyone else is - Just for a while longer."

In that perfect moment, as Mio takes your hand - Not firmly, but tenderly, the slightest contact sending a warm pulse through her fingers - the sunlight falls across the milk-white of the crystal blossom you hold...

-A blossom, slowly but surely, filling with vivid violet color.

JOKER QUEST

EPISODE 106

TO BE CONTINUED
>>
>>34885533
No plan. I have exactly as much of an idea of what's going on as anyone, which isn't much. More of an... understanding? I remember saying years ago (Christ, it probably was years ago) that the big problem that every major NPC had was that they couldn't let go. Megumi is so hung up on Kou that she brought him back and now watches his soul die by inches. Mikogami cracked the world for his daughter, but he's nowhere to be found and she's hosting a monster. Make a list of characters and their problems, and you'll see that each and every one of them is unhappy because they can't let go of the past, of their hate, of their failure.

If they could accept their loss, they could begin again.

That's all.
>>
>>34885665

(Gentlemen: I'd love to continue, but I'm completely exhausted. My apologies for the abrupt break - I do feel that we covered quite a lot of ground today, and the second half should see the conclusion of this day.

Good night, and God bless - You've been a wonderful audience, and I hope to see you again soon.

Before I leave, is there any consensus regarding research?)
>>
>>34885685
Vehicle Bay II, Reactive Plating, Mastemas or Helios.

Someone want to decide between the units?
>>
>>34885685
>Before I leave, is there any consensus regarding research?
Let's see.

The general idea was to get another vehicle bay, a Hellion research and something for 15%.

If we go with that plan, I want the snipers and the reactive plating.
>>
>>34885706
Mastemas!
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>34885711
>>34885724
1=Mastema
2=Helios
>>
>>34885706
>>34885711 Here.
Helios.
>>
>>34885734
>>34885736
Seems pretty clear to me.
>>
>>34885748

HOLLOW SUN: 3.4%

UPGRADE UNLOCKED:

> [X] VEHICLE BAY II

HELLION RESEARCH:

> [X] REACTIVE PLATING
> [X] RESEARCH: HELIOS MATRIX

(All right, that should be everything. I'll make the amendments by the next session.)
>>
>>34885674
And suddenly Joker Quest holds the same life lesson as Katanagatari.
>>
>>34885810
Hilariously, we made peace with Hecate's fate.
>>
Can we start building Hellions next time?
>>
>>34885685
That's the thing - we have too many questions regarding the research choices.
>>
>>34885810
That series was... very Nisio Isin. But actually it came to me because I was replaying Dead Money.

>>34885803
Ah wait, one last thing, can we do a resource check? How many Cherubs and cores do we have now?

>>34885853
We'll start the Chayots. Just need one or two more threads with ridiculously high gains.
>>
>>34885831
Joker is pretty much Shichika in that regard. It's just that Joker's story only began after the death of his "Togame".
>>
>>34885873
Fuck the holograms with a rake.

But on topic, why one or two? What do you want to research?
>>
>>34885939
Just two things: Arc Charger and Shrike blades. Then Ophanim. With the one after that? Blow open the Vault and go for Relics and upgrades.
>>
>>34885962
>With the one after that? Blow open the Vault and go for Relics and upgrades.
Hover mode Joker with five more relics and invisibility?
This will be fun.
>>
>>34885873

(This is current list of Hellion resources available.

Hellion hardshells: 12,917.

Virtue-class hardshells: 1,055

Cherubim-class hardshells: 226

Chayot-class hardshells: 0

Essence Cores: 7,485)
>>
>>34886038
Thanks kindly. Sleep well.
>>
>>34885831
And yet her fate is still unknown. I just hope she gets some closure at the end.
>>
>>34886038
So we only have 7.5k available units. That's not an army at all.
>>
>>34886168

I'm not sure you're aware how much 7.5K is.
>>
>>34886322
An army by most organizational standards is a force that numbers at least 80,000 troops.

7,500 is barely two regiments.



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