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[5:49 PM Wednesday, June 24th 2015]

The ride to the docks is a tense silence, only punctuated by the occasional muttered expletive or curse whenever the traffic light just suddenly goes from green to red. You swear that the algorithm controlling the traffic lights are deliberately conspiring against all of you. Fucking hell. The cars in front of you in five different instances managed to be the cut-off point before Victoria’s had to hit the break.

But at any rate, it’s the home stretch now, if the GPS is any accurate indication. Just a few more blocks, sharp turns and five minutes of trying to find parking until you hit the waterside docks.

You’re in luck. Victoria manages to find a parking spot relatively close to the water. The second she turns off the engine, all of you are sprinting out of the vehicle, slamming doors shut and running as fast as you can out of the lot and onto the marina proper. Sleek white fishing yachts and motor boats bob gently in the water, some covered by industrial tarp, others basking in the overhead sun.

The only folks milling about are the grizzled fishermen on their marina benches, working away at their boats or sitting on the docks and cleaning fishing equipment. Occasionally, the odd sight of someone in the bait and tackle and tourist shops pops up from time to time. Other than that? The docks may as well be deserted.

It’s a stark contrast to the large amount of people that were on the beach in the morning. There’s not even more than at least a hundred individuals here.

You’re not here to gawk, though. You need to stop somebody before they do something incredibly, incredibly stupid.

It’s probably best for you to…
>Check the main office. They had to have checked out...
>Go to the dock proper. Perhaps the fishermen saw something...

>Choose a companion…
>Brady (Jack Frost and Mokoi)
>Fitz (Apsaras and Lham Dearg)
>Victoria (Gremlin and Tagata Manu)

>>45637894
>>Check the main office. They had to have checked out...
>>Choose a companion…
>>Fitz (Apsaras and Lham Dearg)
Need muscle.
Sup Kaz?

>>45637894
Wait why do we need a companion? Are the other two checking the other place?

>>45637945

Sonofabitch...I knew I was forgetting something. Yeah. Pick someone to go with you. The other two will check out the area. Depending on who you take gives you more options a la "bad cop/good cop" or diplomancy-esque interactions...

>>45637972
Mmmk

>>45637894
>Check the main office. They had to have checked out...
>Fitz (Apsaras and Lham Dearg)

I figure Brady and Victoria are more approachable to the everyday man like the fishermen.

>>45637894
>Check the main office. They had to have checked out...
>Fitz (Apsaras and Lham Dearg)

Kinda curious as to why you listed their demons if we are just talking...

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>>45637933
>>45638014

You give your orders, and your party members comply. Fitz sprints behind you while Brady and Victoria head towards the pier. Judging from the way their faces suddenly blanched upon the sudden gust of sea breeze that blew into their faces, it seems like they’ve got the shorter end of the stick.

Fish guts smell nasty. Who would’ve thought?

“The harbor master should have some kind of log,” you say as you reach for the door handle. The two-story building looms overhead, ancient wood from...1992 creaking in the salty air. “And even there isn’t one, I highly doubt that they wouldn’t notice one of the boats trying to head off, especially with the beach closed. Even if they aren’t fishing near the ocean, it’s bound to turn up some eyebrows...”

Fitz snorts. “Like that ever stopped them. You’d be surprised how many folks are willin’ to ignore somethin’ that the government sets up. Remember that snowstorm back in oh-eight? Bunch of madmen went out on shoppin’ spite of the hazard zone we had in place. Car accidents for days…”

The office isn’t as much as an office as much as it is a combination of many things. Bait and tackle, electrical power tools, marine hardware and nautical gifts hang from many shelves and hooks around the four corners.

An elderly woman sits at the front desk, perusing through what looks like a fishing magazine. Upon seeing your arrival, she smiles politely and sets her reading material to the ground. “Welcome to Lewes Harbour Marina, young man, lady. How can I help you today?”

You give your best smile in spite of the ticking clock counting down in your brain. “As a matter of fact…”

>Choose an approach...
>“I need to see your boating logs for today.” [Blunt]
>“Have you had any boats head out recently?” [Subtle]
>“I’m looking for Mister Barnes…his daughter's worried…” [Pathos]

>>45638340
In case we need to suddenly jump to combat.

>>45638392
>>“I’m looking for Mister Barnes…his daughter's worried…” [Pathos]

>>45638392
>“I’m looking for Mister Barnes…his daughter's worried…” [Pathos]
Toss in some 'have any boats left recently?' afterwards since they are connected.

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>>45638441
>>45638499

You recall the information that Brady passed along to you. Jeremy Barnes, the father of the Heimlech’d girl you pulled out of the water, and friend to Sylvia’s father, who was likewise on this errant hunting trip. Owner of a big fishing boat whose precise model you can’t remember. But what you do remember is its name: The Mermaid III. Kind of makes you wonder what happened to the last ones and does nothing to assuage the ominous feeling in your stomach. But that’s a moot point anyway.

“I’m looking for Mister Barnes,” You intone with a sympathetic tone. “I was told he was going to be here? His daughter’s worried about him...”

You aren’t speaking on her behalf, but it’s probably true enough. Waking up in the hospital without seeing your family members? That’s something no one has to go through. Especially since the aforementioned missing member’s life was in potential peril.

The elder nods in understanding. “Oh, I can’t even imagine how the poor dear must be feeling. Of all the days for an attack to happen…I heard that she was alright though. Some kind souls were able to save her from drowning.”

You try not to let your ego swell too much in response to that. A side eye at Fitz shows that she’s currently engaging in an exercise in facial muscle control. “Yes. How…fortunate. But you wouldn’t have happened to see her father? I had someone tell me that he was around here somewhere…?”

(cont.)

“Yes, he was here when I started my shift a few hours ago…” She pauses to crack her neck slightly. “He was fixing his boat, but I can’t be sure if he’s still here now. I had to step out for a bit to do some errands and my husband took over.”

Oh shit. Your nervous silence prompts Fitz to take over. “…erm…random question, ma’am. You wouldn’t happen to know if any boats left recently?”

“Why don’t you take a look for youself, dearie? This old brain can’t remember everything, after all!”

The logbook isn’t as much of a book as much as it is a checklist. You rapidly scan the names of the individuals, scrawling signatures, and other various important things…

There. Jeremy Barnes. Checking out of the docks…

...forty minutes ago.

Fitz beats you to the punch. “Fuck.”

Suddenly, your Mobile COMP vibrates in your pocket. You ignore the scandalized look of the old woman and fish it out and press the receiver to your ear. “Give me something…”

“I’ve got him on the line!” Brady whispers in a hushed tone. “The fishermen have been spending the last hour trying to get them to come back to the dock over the radio. The old man’s as stubborn as a bull and isn’t about to back down now that they’re twenty miles out to sea…”

>“I need you to try to talk him down.” [Have Brady attempt talks.]
>“I’m on my way now. I’ll do it myself.” [You talk him down.]

>>45638953
>>“I’m on my way now. I’ll do it myself.” [You talk him down.]
Outting that Fitz and us were the ones that saved his daughters life could help. And the fact that we were up close and personal with this thing and what he is trying to do is a really bad idea.

>>45638953
>>“I’m on my way now. I’ll do it myself.” [You talk him down.]

>>45638953
>“I’m on my way now. I’ll do it myself.” [You talk him down.]

>>45638953
>“I’m on my way now. I’ll do it myself.” [You talk him down.]

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>>45638985
>>45638993
>>45639036
>>45639175

“Keep him on the line,” You whisper urgently. “I’ll be down there in a second…”

You nudge Fitz in the ribs to make a pointed apology to the old lady before briskly walking out of the shop. As soon as you’re clear of the ornaments and wooden chimes, you break out into as fast of a run as you can without endangering your foothold on the weathered wood.

Victoria flags you down on one of the piers in the distance, waving for you to come over. As the two of you get closer, you can see Brady and a group of men struggling over a radio, arguing with the distant voice of Jeremy Barnes.

“Status report?” You grunt.

“Local fisherman isn’t going to back down,” Victoria says in a hurried tone of voice. “I mean, the man nearly lost his daughter on the beach a few hours ago. Kind of understand where he’s coming from, but don’t support him at all.”
Fitz scowls. “And he’s about to lose his life if he doesn’t pull the fuck back into the harbor.”

“Well, there is that. But let it known that temper is one very dangerous drug…”

“Add in human stupidity and you’ve got one hell of an explosion.”

“He thinks he’s hunting a shark,” You point out. “Not some water demon with magic who-do powers. So it isn’t as much stupidity as much as ignorance.”

Brady notices your arrival and motions for you to approach. The fishermen raise some eyebrows, but one of them points at you and whispers something into their ears. Eyes widening only slightly, they let you board the boat where the radio is mounted.

(cont.)

“Good luck,” Brady mutters. “I’m British, even I’m impressed by how bullheaded this wanker is.”

The handset of the VHF Radio system is warm to the touch when you take it in your hand. “And who the hell are you supposed to be now?” A rough voice growls from the speaker. "I already told you all to mind your own fucking business."

Clearing the lump out of your throat, you reply, "I am..."

>“…the one who saved your daughter's life.”
>“…a member of the government.”
>Custom

>>45639300
>“…the one who saved your daughter's life.”

>>45639300
>>“…the one who saved your daughter's life.”

>>45639300
>“…the one who saved your daughter's life.”

>>45639300
>“…the one who saved your daughter's life.”

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>>45639312
>>45639348
>>45639351
>>45639398

Guess there’s just no beating around the bush. Go big or go home, and you’re going big with using a trump card in the opening move. “…the one who saved your daughter’s life.”

There’s a moment of silence after you release the TALK button. For a moment, you’re worried that he either turned off the radio or got attacked by the monster. You’re not sure which one is worse. But your fears are alleviated when the radio crackles to life again.

“…is that a fact, huh?” Barnes scoffs. “Well, explain this, then. How do I know you just ain’t jerking my chain, boy? This is certainly a new low for my ‘friends’ at the harbor.” You hear him audibly spit over the radio. “Hell, you’re probably just that Williams kid the marina just hired down the road. You sound the same way over the radio in that your balls haven’t quite dropped yet.”

...now that wasn't very nice.

You aren't as much mad as much as you are amused at his dessert-dry tone of voice. You depress the TALK button once again, and say...

>“Your daughter has a small birthmark on the back of her neck.” [Profession: Medical Student]
>“It would be really low of me to lie about saving someone’s life.” [Roll 1d100 + 10 Social]
>Custom.

>Still cannot desert vs. dessert

I will now commit sudoku

Rolled 13 (1d100)

>>45639621
>“It would be really low of me to lie about saving someone’s life.” [Roll 1d100 + 10 Social]

>>45639621
>“Your daughter has a small birthmark on the back of her neck.” [Profession: Medical Student]

Tell him also how we bandaged his daughters arm.

Rolled 82 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>45639647
Well thankfully i forgot the +10 so ill just roll again, feel free to discard this post if this is against the rules.

>>45639673
I don't count fudged rolls in my "Best of Three" rule. You're in the clear.

>>45639621
>>“It would be really low of me to lie about saving someone’s life.” [Roll 1d100 + 10 Social]
Since we got a good roll.

>>45639621
>“Your daughter has a small birthmark on the back of her neck.” [Profession: Medical Student]
In case someone comes in with a nat 1 and because I frankly think it's the better choice.

>>45639621
>“Your daughter has a small birthmark on the back of her neck.” [Profession: Medical Student]

Rolled 2 (1d2)

...looks like a tie if I'm not mistaken.

>Social Choice
>>45639673
>>45639734
>>45639737

>Medical Choice
>>45639658
>>45639797
>>45639848

Rolling tiebreaker...

>1. Social
>2. Medical

>>45640028
Too late Anon
Coin have been flipped

Finally made a thread! I just read through the archives and I can't believe I missed reading this quest for so long.

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>Birthmark

“Your daughter has a small birthmark on the back of her neck.”

You couldn’t help but notice it when you were trying to clear the water out of her lungs. The small discoloration on the back of her neck, no bigger than your thumb, that was present on the area just where the spine met the shoulder. If you didn’t have the training that you received in medical school, then you probably wouldn’t have noticed it.

That prompts a quick response, the fastest one that came from him judging from the way the fishermen and Brady start. “How do you know that?” Barnes demands, his tone as sharp as a skinning knife. “She’s tight-lipped about that bloody thing, so how did you…”

His voice trails off for a few moments, leaving only static coming from the speaker. Radios aren’t telephones in that you can’t talk at the same time when one end’s got their thumb on the TALK button. You aren’t sure whether or not he’s stopped talking, so it’s best to wait it out.

“…well I’ll be damned,” His voice eventually grounds out. “So you’re actually one of the guy that pulled her out?”

“One of them, yes,” You admit as neutrally as possible, without any sort of overt pride in your voice. "Couldn't have done it without my friend here." You make a pointed gesture to Fitz, who flashes you a brief smile.

>Fitz approves +3

“…thank you both for saving my daughter. That much I’m willing to give ya. But if those bastards have dragged you to the radio to try and convince me to come back, then you may as well go back home. I ain’t coming back 'till what hurt her is dead.”

>Make an argument:
>“As a government agent, I’m qualified to tell you that your current actions will result in bodily harm.” (Ethos)
>“What about your daughter, Barnes?! She’s waiting for you to come visit her!” (Pathos)
>“If the Coast Guard couldn’t get the shark, then I honestly don’t see how you’re going to.” (Logos)

>>45640576
>“What about your daughter, Barnes?! She’s waiting for you to come visit her!” (Pathos)

Gonna head out for my Pilates course. I'll be back in an hour. Please keep the thread bumped until then.

>>45640438
Welcome to the thread, anon. We hope you enjoy your stay and smooth over our relationship with the fickle RNGesus.

>>45640576
>>“What about your daughter, Barnes?! She’s waiting for you to come visit her!” (Pathos)

>>45640576
>>“What about your daughter, Barnes?! She’s waiting for you to come visit her!” (Pathos)

>>45640576
>>“If the Coast Guard couldn’t get the shark, then I honestly don’t see how you’re going to.”
"Listen I went toe to toe with that thing out there. I can't say how but that thing isn't just some wild animal. It has some amount of intelligence and its not going to wait around while you take potshots at it. Its extremely dangerous and I don't think its going to matter whether you have a boat or not."

"Go back to your daughter. She needs her father right now more than ever, not vengeance."
>“What about your daughter, Barnes?! She’s waiting for you to come visit her!” (Pathos)

>>45640576
>>“What about your daughter, Barnes?! She’s waiting for you to come visit her!” (Pathos)

She's been traumatized by a shark attack, and now someone tells her, her father instead of being with her is in the same water as hat fucking shark

Oh yeah I decided to tally up approval, starting from when Kaz introduced the system and gave us our squad's current approval back then.

Y'all curious? With that +3 there we have:

Brady: 41
Fitz : 73
MacKay: 29
Victoria: 43

Alger: +18 from whatever it started at
Kristoff: +3 from whatever it started at

>>45640755
So I wonder if it's a out of 100 system or what? If it is we're approaching romance levels with Fitz. Prolly badly ending ones.

Are the pixie fuckers still here?

>>45640755
>Fitz: 73
Damn, she's waifuing up pretty hard there.

>>45640904
Shame she's not Pixie.

>>45640904
>>45640899
Honestly as I was tallying them up, it wasn't much waifuing. She just is down with a lot of things we do, like that bomb incident. That was +10 or 8 right there.

And her approval doesn't go down that easy. Like Victoria got a -6 for flirting with a girl, while Fitz only got a -2 for letting her get burned instead of Brady.

And yes Kaz we should spend more time with Mackay, but he keeps doing solo investigations.

>>45640967
>Like Victoria got a -6 for flirting with a girl, while Fitz only got a -2 for letting her get burned instead of Brady.
Hahahahaha

>>45640925
Pixie is for headpats, not for lewds.

>>45640980
Vicky is a jealous chick. Maybe we flirted with her too hard for that sushi date.

>>45640967
How much you want to bet her personal quest involves dealing with her sense of self worth?

>>45641000
>Pixie is for headpats, not for lewds.
Trips speak truth

>>45640612
RNGesus is always fickle

is the thread dead?

>>45642601
Kaz is getting back from class right now.

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Ow, my everything...

>>45640599
>>45640615
>>45640662
>>45640669
>>45640726

Brady was right. He was being stubborn. Then again, like Victoria said, you can’t exactly find fault in his course of action. You’ve never had any kids of your own, but if your siblings were hurt by someone, then heaven have mercy on the poor bastard because you weren’t about to give them any. Love of one’s family is a mighty powerful force of compulsion.

"Listen,” You slowly intone. “I went toe-to-toe with that thing out there. I can't say how or why, but that thing isn't just some wild animal. It has some amount of intelligence and it’s not going to wait around while you take potshots at it. It’s extremely dangerous and I don't think it’s going to matter whether you have a boat or not."

That elicits a harsh bark of laughter when he comes back on the line. “Kid, I’ve seen ‘Jaws’ if that’s what you’re trying to get at. You’re talking to a fisherman who’s been fishing these waters long before your parents did the horizontal mambo to make you. I know my way around the area better than the own palm of my hand.”

“That’s not even the main point!” You nearly shout. “Barnes, your daughter is in the goddamn hospital. She’s been attacked, left traumatized, and now she has to deal with the fact that her father is not beside her bed, but in the same waters as the monster that put her there in the first place.

You take a moment to reign your temper in and even out your breathing. “For fuck's sake...right now, she doesn’t need vengeance or retribution. She just wants her headstrong father safe with her.”

>Victoria approves +6
>Brady approves +5
>Fitz approves +10


>Roll 1d100 + 30 (+10 Social, +20 Speech Bonus)

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Rolled 46 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45643125

Rolled 6 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45643125

Rolled 14 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45643125

Rolled 19 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45643125

Rolled 12 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45643125
First roll I've done for the quest, lets fuck up!

>Those rolls.

Good thing we have that bonus at least.

>>45643125
>>Fitz approves +10

I am beginning to fear for Adrian's Pelvis

>>45643210
Good things he has combat 1 right?

>>45643210
Good thing he's a doctor.

>>45643280
Just get a demon to spam Dia

>>45643210
A busted pelvis sucks, but it's nothing compared to what's gonna happen when Alger finds out how we got it.

>>45643304
Alger approves +1

>>45643210
The approval system I'm using has larger ranges than the Dragon Age one I originally based it off.

>0-49: Good Acquaintances
>50-149: Friends
>150-299: Best Friends
>300+ : ???

I should probably retroactively add Approval considering you spent six weeks training together at Cocytus. Put you up in the low 'friends range'.

As for why Fitz responded so positively to his little speech...let's just say that she has daddy issues and leave it at that.

>>45643322
SENPAI NOTICED ME!

>>45643323
>Spoiler
Yeah had a feeling.

>>45643210
I want Fitz and Adrian to happen so she can make a "sawbones" joke when they bone.

>>45643323
farther off from camp Fritz then we thought lads

>>45643355
I had a feeling it was a much larger range than 100, we were getting points to fast for that.

>>45643323
So just add say 40 ish to every person's +?

Also thanks for explaining boss.

Brady 46
Fitz 83
Mckay 29
Victoira 49

Not counting camp boost.

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>>45643151
>>45643152
>>45643160

The silence that falls when you release the button grips the entire gathering like a tight vice around your throats. Fishermen wring their hands, still their knives, and your companions quiet their breathing as long as they can.

Eventually, the radio crackles back to life, and with it, the somber voice of Barnes warbles out. “…you’re a good kid, lad. Truly one of a kind. And you are right, I suppose. She does need me by her side.”

Sighs of relief are exchanged, grateful looks given…

“But not yet. Not until I bring her the monster’s head. Thanks for understanding.”

The line cuts off with a very audible CLICK, and the only noise coming from the speakers is the dull sound of grey static. And when that fades away, the smiles, optimism and happy thoughts go with it.

…well shit.

“That stupid, pig-headed sonofabitch…” Fitz snarls vehemently, to the point where Victoria nervously edges away from the glowering blonde. “He’s gonna get himself killed, and for what? Just to prove a fucking point?!”

She’s attaching the ‘g’ to the end of her ‘-ing’ words. That’s a sign of trouble if you ever saw one.

Brady takes this moment to interject. A brave move, considering how she looks like she’s about to chuck the radio straight off the pier. “All hope isn’t lost now!” He says, fumbling for his wallet. “We can catch up to them! Grab one of these boats and forcibly drag him back.”

Victoria raises her eyebrow. “You intend to track them through what…the COMP? Doable, if we get a boat fast enough. And technically the ban on the beach applies only to the beach and not the outlying waters…so I say we go do it!”

>Charter a boat. (Slow deployment, bring all companions.)
>Fly on Gryphon. (Rapid deployment, bring only one companion)

>>45643427

More like +30 for quality bonding time and suffering together under Alger's bootcamp named after and from hell.

>>45643718
>Fly on Gryphon. (Rapid deployment, bring only one companion)


So
Brady 76
Fitz 113
Mckay 59
Victoira 79

>>45643718
>Charter a boat. (Slow deployment, bring all companions.)
This thing isn't no slouch. We are going to need all hands on deck. We can fly on Gryphon from the boat if we need a quick rapid deployment mid journey.

>>45643767
Getting close to best friend territory with Fitz.

>>45643718
>>Charter a boat. (Slow deployment, bring all companions.)

>>45643718
>Fly on Gryphon. (Rapid deployment, bring only one companion)
At risk of waifuing, Fitz. This is going to be dangerous so we need someone who can shoot the shit out this thing as quickly as possible.

...what is it with today and ties? Good Christ. Given the delicacy of the situation, I have no desire to toss a coin...yet. Give it about eh, ten minutes.

>>45643767
changing to
>Charter a boat. (Slow deployment, bring all companions.)

>>45643990
GOOOOO!

>>45643718
>Fly on Gryphon. (Rapid deployment, bring only one companion)

>>45643996
...well that was quick. Typing...

>>45644025
Get their radio frequency. Keep hailing them while we are on the boat and keep in contact so we know when they engage the NotKelpie. Once they do we should take off the boat with Gryphon to support them while the boat comes as reinforcements

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>Charter a boat.

“Right,” You say, running a hand through your hair. “Yeah, let’s…let’s find a boat. And quickly. Fitz? You good there?”

She seems to be. Her temper’s gone down from the apocalyptic boiling point back down to a sarcastic simmer. “Yeah, yeah. ‘m fine. Let’s just get this quickly so I can give the fucker a real stern talkin’ to.”

“Don’t throw him over into the water,” Victoria risks a smile and a joke. “We need him alive, remember?”

“Eh,” she shrugs. “Too much water never killed anyone.”

“Yeah, but a lot can kill ya,” Brady dryly retorts. “Clearly you’ve never been to London.”

You’re the most mature out of all of them, so you refrain from engaging in their little fun. What you need to do is find someone willing to get you out there as fast as you can. Some of the fishermen shake their heads, no, while others wave you away. No matter how much money you can put on the table, even cash, they just aren’t willing to go chasing after Barnes.

“Lot of cowards, they are.”

You turn to find a man standing on the edge of a boat, smoking a cigarette. With a disdainful ‘tch’, he flicks the ashes off of his shirt and squashes the stub with two fingers, ignoring the sizzling of his flesh upon contact with the ember.

At your outstretched hand, he scoffs. “Do this long enough and you stop feeling pain, kid. But that’s just life in a nutshell if you squint real tight and take a long hard look.”

…what?

Just as you’re about to interrupt his philosophy lecture, he shakes his head. “So you’re in need of a boat to get to that dammed fool, huh? Well you’re in luck. I’ve got the stones take you and your crew on this madman’s journey. All you’ll owe me is gas fare and damages should we suffer them.”

>“Deal. How soon can you depart?”
>“Hold on. Where’s the fine print?”
>Custom.

>>45644335
>“Deal. How soon can you depart?”
Lives are on the line, lets go.

>>45644335
>“Deal. How soon can you depart?”

>>45644335
>>“Deal. How soon can you depart?”
No time to talk.

>>45644335
>“Deal. How soon can you depart?”

>>45644335
>>“Deal. How soon can you depart?”

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>“Deal. How soon can you depart?”

You’ve had shadier deals in college, but that’s not something you want to admit. And besides, if the boat the guy is gesturing to- oh wow, that’s huge- is any indication, it seems that he’s legit in spite of his…eccentricities. Yes. That’s a polite word.

“Done,” You say, reaching out to shake his hand. His grip is calloused and weathered, a sign of a life of hard work if you ever saw one. “You’ve got yourself a deal. How soon can we depart?”

The stranger grunts. “Fifteen minutes. Ten if your people are quick about it.”

“Can we do five?”

He smirks. “That’s the question I want to hear.”

Just as you’re about to go grab the rest of the team, you quickly turn back as the stranger grabs your shoulder. “Oi, lad. Don’t go running off when you don’t have my name yet. I’ve gone by many names over the course of my life, but I suppose the one I’ll respond to now is Murdock. Understood?”

You nod and extricate yourself from his grip. “Sure thing. My name is-”

“That isn’t important right now, is it? Go get your friends, lad. We depart as soon as I get through this last cigarette…”

You return to the rest of your team, who perk up at the sight of your return. Cutting as much unnecessary details as possible, you give a quick account of the rejections and the strange offer that Murdock gave you. And how everyone needs to haul ass to his boat’s berth.

Fitz’s brow furrows. “Now that’s a shady person if I ever saw one, Sawbones. I’ll trust you on this one, but it’s probably best to keep a sharp eye out.”

“Agreed,” Victoria nods. “But I can’t go about complaining at something given to us at a relatively minimal expense.”

“Well, no use complaining about it here,” Brady interjects. “We’re burning daylight, and I’d rather get Barnes back on shore sooner than later. Especially while we still have sunlight.”

(cont.)

Murdock’s boat is surprisingly bigger on the inside than it is on the outside view, but then again, that ends up being an apt descriptor for boats in general. The AILEANA is a relatively old boat in that it shows signs of wear and tear, but it’s been taken care of for the longest of times. Seems he knows what he’s doing.

As soon as you all clamber onto the boat, Murdock unties the rope from the dock and sprints towards the captain’s seat. A reluctant dockhand gingerly pulls it back in and starts spotting for the AILEANA’s departure. The sound the engines make cause all of you to jump in your places, a loud roaring noise that’s almost as piercing as a demon’s.

“Hang on tight, lads and lasses,” Murdock’s voice crackles over the intercom. “It’s gonna be a bumpy ride if we’re to catch up with your elusive fool!”

Within mere seconds of clearing the dock, the engines roar to life and all of you are thrown into a pile of scrambling limbs as the boat races out of the dock with a speed completely disproportionate to its size.

It takes a good minute for all of you to calm down before you start speaking all at once.

“Brady, get your hand out of my armpit-”

“We’re both girls, but that doesn’t mean-”

“Take your foot out of my crotch, first-”

“Ack! Sorry…hold on, just loosen up here-”

At least thirty seconds go by before you all manage to steady yourselves on the benches and seats with weary looks in your eyes.

>You resolve never to speak of this again.

>Choose one:
>Head out to join Murdock up top.
>Stay indoors with the team.

>>45644970
>Head out to join Murdock up top.

>>45644970
>Head out to join Murdock up top.

>>45644970
>>Head out to join Murdock up top.

>You resolve never to speak of this again
kek.

File: VictoriaNeutral.png (104 KB, 439x536)

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>>45645008
>>45645014
>>45645066

It isn’t the atmosphere as much as it is the need to keep a sharp lookout with your newfound friend upstairs. That’s what you tell the others as you exit out of the interior cabin, wobbling slightly when the boat rolls over a sudden cresting wave.

You’ve been on boat journeys before and have relatively escaped unscathed and without suffering from seasickness. It’s the breakneck speed that you’re unused to. Hopefully Murdock had a way to keep his engines from burning themselves out.

“I’ve got their radio frequency locked on to my COMP,” Brady says as he extends his machine out towards yours. “Take it up to Murdock up on top. I fear that we’re going to be flying blind until we give him directions.

With that comforting thought, you hold out your own COMP and begin the exchange of data.

>Brady passes on the map coordinates to you.

“You all gonna stay in here?” You ask just before you head out the door.

Brady shrugs, looking out the porthole. “This is fine enough for me. I’ll head out when we slow down from our madman’s pace.”

“I’ll go keep a lookout down below,” Victoria stands up and walks to join you. “Better to have three pairs of eyes than just two. What kind of Japanese person would I be not to stand on the deck of a ship at sea?”

“A piss-poor one…urp…” Fitz seems to be off color for a moment, but her face returns to the normal flush that it’s supposed to go. “Gimme…a second to get used to the speed…I’m not seasick…just a bit dizzy is all…wasn’t expecting that…”

With a sympathetic nod to her and a raised arm to Brady, you and Victoria step outside of the cabin.

(cont.)

File: VictoriaSmile.png (114 KB, 444x540)

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Victoria nearly stumbles into you as another wave causes the boat to crest up, then violently down. But she regains her balance and sits herself down at one of the hard…plastic? Maybe. You’re not sure what they’re made of, but they’re hard enough to pass as plastic.

“You gonna be okay?” You ask her.

She nods. “For the most part. I’ve spent enough time on boats to avoid getting seasick. Take enough boat tours across Japan with the family and you’re sure to build immunity to being seasick.”

“Gotcha. Just let me or the others know if something happens, alright? Give a shout, a holler, a call on the COMP. Whatever attracts our attention the quickest.”

“You should be more worried about that ladder than of me, Leader.” She points towards the monochrome steel ladder that leads to the captain’s platform. “Please be careful when climbing up. You’re the only trained medical professional here.”

You smile. “You didn’t do so bad a job of cleaning my shoulder up way back when we first met. Pretty sure you can deal with a cracked head.”

Victoria rolls her eyes. “That was a disaster only mitigated with your help as you were bleeding out on the ground. Your head’s already cracked if you think I’m capable of fixing that kind of injury.”

"Well, that's what magic's for, isn't it?"

"Any idiot can cast a spell. Common sense, though? That's something seldom used."

You wave her off with a slight grin. "Good thing my demons know healing spells then."

"Good thing your demons know healing spells," she shoots back to you with a smile.

>Victoria approves +3


You set off towards the ladder, clambering up without too much trouble. Murdock doesn’t acknowledge your arrival save for a barely-audible grunt as you strap yourself into the...hmm…is it first mate? Or copilot? Either way, you sit in the chair closest to him and buckle yourself in. Just in time, too. Another swell makes the boat rock up and down.

(cont.)

“I’ve got the coordinates…” You begin to say before he cuts you off with a pointed gesture.

“Put your phone away before you drop it, lad,” Murdock mutters. “If I know Barnes as well as I do, then he’s probably out in that certain spot a good twenty miles out to sea. Don’t need any map or GPS to get there. Or back, for that matter.”

...okay then.

>“So why exactly did you take us all on?”
>“How well do you know Barnes?”
>“…” (Say nothing, scan the horizon)
>Custom.

>>45645615
>>“So why exactly did you take us all on?”
>>“How well do you know Barnes?”

>>45645615
>“How well do you know Barnes?”

>>45645615
>>“…” (Say nothing, scan the horizon)

>>45645615
>>“So why exactly did you take us all on?”
>>“How well do you know Barnes?”

>>45645615
>“…” (Say nothing, scan the horizon)
>Custom

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>>45645630
>>45645631
>>45645649

It’s probably best to break the silence that’s settled between you. And dig for some more information about the parties involved and your new friend. Three birds in one stone. “How well did you know Barnes?”

He grunts. “Well enough to know where he fishes. A month, give or take a few weeks. When two experienced men of the sea come together for a pint after a day’s work, you quickly get to know each other as if you’d lived in the same childhood neighborhood.”

You nod, not quite sure how to respond to that. It makes enough sense, but your expertise lies in medical procedures, and the finer workings of the Task Force code of conduct. So you decide to switch subjects. “So why exactly did you take us on?”

Murdock’s face isn’t one of feigned ignorance of the question as much as it is pensive. He’s trying to figure out the right words, just like you yourself have and seen others do. “You were on some kind of mission, lad,” he eventually says. “You were determined to bring that crazy bastard back to his family. Real tearjerking, I tell you. Couldn’t just let that slip by. Not when I’m on a mission of my own as well.”

“Your mission?”

“To get my fishing partner back before he gets himself killed. When you get as old as I am, you tend to want to keep the things you have instead of letting the old men of the sea take them down to their graves. Least that’s how I’ve been sailing for the last few weeks.”

>Choose one:
>Write-in response.
>Scan the horizon. The COMP says you’re almost there.

>>45646058
>>Scan the horizon. The COMP says you’re almost there.

>>45646058
>Write-in response.
"Last few weeks? What was your mindset before and what changed it?"

>>45646058
Oh shit, I just realized his character art is Orange from Code Geass.

>>45646058
>>45646122
this

>>45646122
I'll second it.

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>>45646122
>>45646167
>>45646245

Something about his way of voice is off. You’re not sure what it is. His voice is even and his eyes a fairly straightforward light green. Still, while you haven’t been an operative for the Task Force for the longest time, you can feel your intuition pointing out that he’s got something to hide.

It's his words, you realize. Something's happened to him, that much you can deduce. Doesn't want to loose someone else. Has lost someone before to the ocean.

Best to approach this with casual and careful precision.

You frown pensively. “Last few weeks? Pardon me for asking, but was your mindset before and what caused it to change?”

>Roll 1d100 + 10 Social

Rolled 48 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>45646375
REV UP THOSE ONES.

Rolled 8 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>45646375
Watch us be sailing with the Each-Uisage

Rolled 9 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>45646375

Rolled 96 (1d100)

>>45646375
deliver me from dice

Rolled 62 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>45646375
not shit roll pls?

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Not our day with rolls.

File: 1382324003981.gif (575 KB, 512x384)

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>>45646506
Hey man thats RNG for you.

>>45646494
Never seen this one before, danke Anon.

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>>45646645
Heres some more fresh from the DLC leak a couple days ago.

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>>45646409
>>45646419
>>45646434

He doesn’t answer you immediately. But when he does, he adjusts himself in his chair and crushes another cigarette. “Now that would be telling now, wouldn’t it? There’s a time and place to get to know a man, but now isn’t the time, and not with an opening line like that, lad.”

>You failed to get Murdock to open up.

But just as you’re about to throw your hands up in the air and walk back down the ladder before things get even more awkward, he suddenly thrusts his hand out. “Hold on, lad. Stay right there…what in the hell...?

The sun is setting behind you, far back to the west, but you can still make it out on the distant horizon line. What looks like a small plume of smoke is rising from the edge of the ocean.

“Jesus, Mary and Joseph,” Murdock whispers. “What the hell is that?”

...well that's not good at all.

>Stay on the boat and have Murdock pull up to the wreckage.
>Get on Gryphon and ride. (Grab someone to come with you)

>>45646532
Regulations aside, I still want to fuck Pixie.

Murdock might be a magical being of the sea. Only might. He didn't disclose his name, just what he wanted us to call him.

>>45647016
>Get on Gryphon and ride. (Grab someone to come with you)
Victoria has the smallest demons, so her.

Shouldn't risk the boat since most of the team is shit out of luck without it.

>>45647016
>>Get on Gryphon and ride. (Grab someone to come with you)
Victoria is the closest.

>>45647016
>>Get on Gryphon and ride. (Grab someone to come with you)
Victoria

>>45647016
>Get on Gryphon and ride. (Grab someone to come with you)
Viccy

On a completely unrelated note, that was my 420th story entry for this quest.

Back to writing...

>>45646679
That one I was around for, along with the colored version. Thanks though, fellow /smtg/uy

File: Spoiler Image (1.47 MB, 800x480)

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So yeah if you guys haven't heard. There is going to be a DLC in SMT 4 Final where all Mainline SMT (sans Space Marine ;_;) Protags fight Stephen for some reason.

They are still making the sprites for everyone other than Flynn.

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>>45647070
>>45647099
>>45647134
>>45647142

It takes one second for you to smash the button on the seat belt. Within another, you’re scrambling down the ladder as fast as you can. Three seconds pass as you punch in the command to summon Gryphon, who materializes from the COMP with a mighty cry.

You don’t care if Murdock can see your demon. If push comes to shove, that’s what Mnemosyne’s for. You can’t help it anyway, not with lives on the line.

This is something that Alger mentioned was possible, but you’ve never actually done outside of the odd day where you were too tired to walk back to camp and Gryphon was only too happy to carry you at a happy trot on the ground. Hopefully the airborne experience isn’t too rough.

At any rate, now’s not the time for hesitation, anxiety or fear.

That comes later.

“Victoria, I need you to come with me,” You say as you mount the trilling avian Beast. “There’s no way I’m going to endanger the boat without knowing what’s awaiting us over there. Your demons are lightweight enough to not encumber Gryphon.”

She looks hesitantly at the demon and at the water before nodding with resolution. “Understood.”
Gingerly, Victoria takes your hand as you help her onto the hovering Beast. As soon as she’s settled down behind you, she grabs onto your body with a tight grip.

“I don’t wanna fall, I don’t wanna fall, I don’t wanna fall…” She repeats over and over again as a mantra, either completely oblivious to the red blush growing across her face or choosing to deliberately ignore it.

You decide to follow her lead, and ignore the slightest of bulges along her jacket pressing against your back.

(cont.)

The cabin door bursts open, and Brady stumbles out of the doorway, an ashen look on his face. Behind him, you can see Fitz scrambling for her gun, looking slightly better than when you saw her last. Good to know she’s still capable of fighting.

“Aw shite,” Brady curses,“Looks like we were too late. Fucking hell…”

“Can’t say that for sure until we scope out the sight.” You gently nudge Gryphon and grab onto the fur gathered along the back of his head. Its wing beat grows faster and its altitude grows higher. “You and Fitz keep the ship safe, alright? Let’s have something we can travel back home to.”

He grimaces, but makes a gesture of acknowledgement. “You got it, bossman. We’ll hold the fort down.”

With that, you nudge Gryphon one more time in the legs and it takes off like an arrow towards the burning wreckage. The salty mist of the ocean kisses your face gently as you fly across its surface. If you weren’t in a life-or-death situation, this might’ve been romantic.

Well, for someone else other than Victoria. If the way her arms tightened around your chest is any indication, she does not like flying AT ALL. Or maybe it’s just the thought of falling into the neigh-bottomless ocean that has her jimmies rustled.

Ah well. To each fear, their own.

Within thirty seconds and a flight that you clocked at twenty-five miles per hour back at Cocytus, Gryphon brings the two of you to the smoldering wreck of the Mermaid III. It looks like a scene right out of Jaws. The whole damn thing’s smashed up to bits and pieces, but the main body is still somewhat buoyant, albeit tipping slightly on its starboard side. The source of the smoke is coming from the engine, which continues to spew out noxious gas.

>Roll 1d100 Perception

>Have Victoria…
>Put out the fire.
>Make a platform of ice.
>Custom

Rolled 59 (1d100)

>>45647707
>Put out the fire.

Rolled 69 (1d100)

>>45647707
>>Have Victoria…
>>Put out the fire.

Rolled 84 (1d100)

>>45647707
>Put out the fire.

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>>45647742
>>45647753
>>45647762

If there’s one thing that you can take away from the movies (and common sense in general), it’s that having an open flame right next to a fuel source is a big no-no.
“Think you can put out that flame?”

Victoria manages to pull her head away from her back and look in the direction you’re pointing at. “Yeah, yeah, I can take care of that. Just gimme a second…”

It takes her ten seconds to get Gremlin out, but you’re not complaining. Especially not when a supercharged Mabufu cuts the fire off right at the source. A nice, circular jagged block of ice has completely encircled the once-smoldering engine, robbing it of the oxygen the fire so desperately needs to survive. The smoke ceases immediately, and what’s left of it is dispersed into the air.

With that taken out of the way…

Deep within the interior of the cabin, you noticed a pair of legs lolling about the waterlogged floor. They aren’t moving in spite of the objects slowly falling down on them. You can’t see who it is, but at the rate water’s slowly filling the interior, he’s gonna suffocate within a few minutes.

>Go by yourself down onto the floating wreck.
>Bring Victoria with you onto the floating wreck.
>Custom.

>>45647976
>>Go by yourself down onto the floating wreck.
LEROY.

>>45647976
>>Go by yourself down onto the floating wreck.

>>45647976
>Go by yourself down onto the floating wreck.
Have Vic keep an eye out.

Also have Gryphon and Gremlin Sukukaja us. Two stacks.

>>45647976
>Go by yourself down onto the floating wreck.
Victoria keep an eye out.
this>>45648013
basically.

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>>45648003
>>45648007
>>45648013
>>45648052

“You have that look in your eye,” Victoria cuts you off before you even start to tell her your plan. “That look in your eye that precedes you before you do something incredibly stupid. You did it this morning, and I’m more than willing to bet the allowance money that you gave it to Fitz when you carried the bomb out of the camp.”

You roll your eyes. “Damn. I was figured out. But keep a close eye out. There’s someone stuck in the wreck, face down in the water. There may be more, there may not be any more. Who knows? Someone has to go, and Gryphon can’t fit into the door.”

Her face eventually cedes in your favor, and she exhales deeply, all the while doing her best no to look down into the water. “Don’t get yourself hurt, okay?”

“Yeah, yeah. I’ll be careful.”

>You have Gryphon and Gremlin cast Sukukaja twice on you.
>Gained +10 to Agility-based tests

You gingerly lower yourself onto the boat…and then promptly blanch when it starts to wobble under your weight. Not too deep, but deep enough to have you worried. Best to do your business here quickly without disturbing too much of the wreckage.

The interior of the cabin smells like motor oil and seaweed, and the water comes up to your lower ankle. Doubtless it goes deeper as the incline decreases.

The body you find is that of a middle-aged man, face down in the water and a red gash across his temple. Adjacent to him, a rifle bobs innocuously in the water. You instinctively take a step back. A fucking harpoon gun, in this day and age? Jesus Christ.

You flip him onto his back, and start checking for any other injuries. Temple wound seems superficial and he’s still breathing, albeit faintly. Good signs. But he’s still unconscious, and that worries you.

>Roll 1d100 - 10 to manually resuscitate him.
>(+20 for Knowledge, -30 Injury penalty)

>Summon a demon?
>Pixie
>Napaea
>Centaur

Rolled 38 - 10 (1d100 - 10)

>>45648376
>Pixie
Alright Nurse Pixie, time to work.

Rolled 49 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>45648376
>>Pixie
She can fly, thus making the boat not sink anymore.

Rolled 35 - 10 (1d100 - 10)

>>45648376
>>Pixie

Rolled 79 - 10 (1d100 - 10)

>>45648411
Whoops. Re-rolling.

Mmmk So since RNG hates us and he seems stable, can we have Gryphon hold this dude in his talons and bring him back to our boat?

>>45648404
>>45648411
>>45648418
Fucking med students. *Grumble*

>>45648447
>Implying he's the only survivor.

>>45648434
Can this count since it was the last correct roll?

>>45648708
I make it a policy to count only correct rolls, so yes, it does count.

>>45648746
So does 69 save us?

>>45648773
Patience is a virtue.

>>45647707
>>Put out the fire.

>>45648404
>>45648418
>>45648434

One summoning later, Pixie hovers over your shoulder with a concerned look on her face as you go about trying to bring the man out of his unconscious state. You remember the drill. Chin back, thirty compressions, two breaths, all to the rhythm of ‘Staying Alive’. There are probably other songs that just as well succeed in beating out the rhythm, but given the fact that your instructor was of the elderly bent, it made sense for him to use it.

Still, it doesn’t take too long. Fifteen compressions later, the man seizes violently to life, coughing and hacking out a good three mouthfuls of water from his nose and mouth. You grab his arms and hold him down to keep him from thrashing about in the water. Even with its safety on, that harpoon gun you knocked out of the way is ready to fire.

>In the deepest, darkest corner of your mind, you are infinitely relieved that you did not have to use mouth to mouth.

“Who…who are…” The man struggles to formulate words. His sentences are constantly interrupted by coughing fits. “…how did…”

A faded patch on his denim jacket gives you a name: Davidson. You frown. It isn’t Barnes, but you still saved someone. Still a good thing to do.

“I’m here to save you,” You cut quickly to the chase as you hoist him up as gently as you can. “Are you hurt anywhere else?”

He’s too busy staring at Pixie with a dumbfounded expression. “Mister, there’s a-”

“Don’t worry. Blood loss tends to make you light headed and prone to hallucinations.”

You tip Pixie a wink, who titters in amusement and strikes a pose.

“…oh, what have we done,” Davidson moans as you start walking towards the exit of the cabin. “Jeremy, you stubborn fool…”

>Choose one:
>“Where is Barnes?”
>“What happened here?”

You only get one choice because of the DUNDUNDUNDUNDUNDUNDUNDUN

>>45649145
>“Where is Barnes?”

>>45649145
>Where's Barnes?

>>45649145
>“Where is Barnes?”

>>45649145
>DUNDUNDUNDUNDUNDUNDUNDUN
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urV8MIcLDFk

>>45649145
>Where is Barnes?”
Find the Barney

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>>45649169
>>45649171
>>45649222
>>45649359

Your grip on him tightens slightly. “Davidson? Hey, Davidson, stay with me. Okay? I need you to tell me something: where’s Barnes?”

His eyelids flutter slightly. “How did you know…?”

“Answer the question, please. There are lives at stake here, and I would really like to get out of here in one piece.”

“He…” He frowns slightly, pausing to wipe some errant blood out of his face before continuing, “He…went after the monster…when it hit…took the other harpoon…but that was…what time…”

His sentences devolve into a nigh incomprehensible rambling. Well, looks like you’re not getting any more information out of him now. Best to get him off the boat and into the talons of Gryphon before you resume your search. He doesn’t weigh too much to be an encumbrance, not while you’re still on the sinking ship.

But before you can even take on step out of the door, a tremendous impact from the starboard side sends the both of you crashing onto the floor. The Mermaid tips violently, completely changing directions in how it lists on the ocean’s surface and the sound of wood giving way to more water flow fills both the cabin and your stomach with a growing sense of dread.

You cough, spitting out mouthfuls of water as you hoist Davidson up and struggle towards the door. The wreckage site is shrouded in mist. Victoria and Gryphon are visible enough, but anything more than twenty feet away is completely indecipherable. The sight of Murdock’s ship has vanished from view.

(cont.)

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And then it emerges from the mist, almost gliding on the water with some form of inhuman grace. Its eyes are just as baleful as the last time you saw it, along with its clammy skin and serrated teeth. The only difference now is the unwilling passenger on its back, a heavily wounded man who is unmistakably Barnes. The resemblance to the girl at the beach is uncanny.

The Each-Uisage gives you a leering look before it slides back into the fog, its silhouette only visible against the backdrop of the sunset. A high-pitched neigh rings out from its mouth that sends ripples and small waves lapping at the underside of the hull.

“DEEEEEVIIIIIILLLLLLL SSSSSSSSUUUUUMMOOOONNNEEEEEERRRRRRRRRR”

>Shoot it?
>Yes (Roll 1d100 + 30) [+20 Combat, +10 Sukukaja]
>No

>Have Gryphon fly down to extract Davidson?
>Yes.
>No.
>Later.

>Victoria should…
>Use Magic
>Call for backup
>Make an ice platform

Rolled 90 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45649711
>>Yes
>>Later.

>>Call for backup

Rolled 59 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45649711
>>Shoot it?
>Yes (Roll 1d100 + 30) [+20 Combat, +10 Sukukaja]

>>Have Gryphon fly down to extract Davidson?
>Yes.


>>Victoria should…
>Use Magic
Tagata Manu, Dream Needle
>Call for backup
Victoria
>Make an ice platform
Gremlin

I'm gonna go grab a quick bit to eat. Haven't eaten in hours, but I'll be back soon. Take out is relatively quick to acquire.

Rolled 64 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45649711
>Yes (Roll 1d100 + 30) [+20 Combat, +10 Sukukaja]
>Later
>Call for backup

Rolled 95 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>45649711
>>Yes (Roll 1d100 + 30) [+20 Combat, +10 Sukukaja]
>Yes.
>Call for backup

>>45649711
>Yes
>Yes
>Call for backup

But you know, if her demons can act then do
>>45649782

>>45649711
In addition to everyone else's votes.

>Pixie
Rakunda.

And I'm back. Typing up now...

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>>45649778
>>45649782
>>45649913

>Move Recognition App Activating…
>Scanning…
>WARNING: Enemy has previously deployed move registered as {FOG BREATH}.
>Please proceed with extreme caution.

You do what any normal person would do in your situation.

You reach for the gun at your hip and fire a shot at the demon’s shadow.

To your surprise, it seems to have hit. The not-Kelpie roars in pain, shaking wildly as the bullet penetrates through its clammy flesh. With an enraged snarl, it rears up on its hind legs and roars once more. The density of the fog increases, to the point where you can barely out its form in spite of the sunlight.

>Roll 1d10 + 5 Gun Damage

>WARNING: Enemy has deployed a second layer of {FOG BREAH}

“Adrian!” Victoria’s face is on the verge of panic as she directs Gryphon towards the highest point of the wreck. “I just want to make it clear that I’m not panicking, okay? I’m not! I’m just very excited right now. Yes, excited. Orders, please?”

“…keep this man safe,” You grunt as you pass Davidson to Gryphon, who takes the heavyset man in its talons. “I’ll keep the monster occupied. Support me with whatever you can give me. Guns, magic, demons, you name it. We’re gonna need everything for this one, including back-up.”

Her head bobs up and down so fast that you’re worried about whiplash. “Understood. Call for backup. Keep him safe. Demons, magic, got it. Tagata Manu!”

The bird-like demon waves its hands, and a spear of energy appears above its shoulder. Another gesture sends the spear rocketing into the mist where the demon was last seen.

“Think you can get an ice platform ready?” You exhale as you hop back onto the wreck. “I’m gonna need it if this drags on. We’re on this guy's home turf, and he’s got the advantage…”

Victoria frowns. “You’d need to distract the demon long enough for the ice to take a strong hold.”

You nod. “Doable.”

>Pixie should use…
>Zio
>Rakunda

Rolled 2 + 5 (1d10 + 5)

>>45650707
>>Rakunda

Rolled 10 + 5 (1d10 + 5)

>>45650707
>Rakunda

Hey have Tagata Manu use Dekunda. Strictly gamey debuff speaking, it should get rid of Fog Breath no?

>>45650754
>That roll.

I will write the spell's effect to fit the story.

>Enemy used War Cry!
>Your blows feel hesitant and your resolve is crumbling...
>Demon used Dekunda.
>Your strength and mind are yours once more!

>Enemy used Fog Breath!
>Your attacks are uncertain and hindered by the fog.
>Demon used Dekunda.
>The fog melts away, leaving your vision obscured and the monster in sight.

Rolled 7 + 5 (1d10 + 5)

>>45650707
>Rakunda

>>45650730
>>45650754
>>45650830

>Pixie used Rakunda

The familiar purplish aura emanates from her hands and flies towards the target. For the briefest of moments, the form of the monster is revealed by the debuffing aura, before it fades, and with it, the sight of the demon.

"Backup's coming as soon as we get rid of the Fog!" Victoria shouts from high above. "Murdock isn't going to risk bumping into the wreckage. Tagata Manu should have something..."

As she continues speaking, you squeeze the grip of your pistol as you try to track the monster’s shadowy form…

>Beretta has 14 rounds left.

>Use the Beretta M9 (Roll 1d100 + 20) [Sukukaja Bonus/Fog Breach cancels each other out.]
>Use the Harpoon Gun (Roll 1d100 + 20) [Sukukaja Bonus/Fog Breach cancels each other out.]
>Custom option.

Rolled 56 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>45650978
>>Use the Harpoon Gun (Roll 1d100 + 20) [Sukukaja Bonus/Fog Breach cancels each other out.]
This should hurt more...

Rolled 24 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>45650978
>>Use the Harpoon Gun (Roll 1d100 + 20) [Sukukaja Bonus/Fog Breach cancels each other out.]

GO FOR THE EYES

Rolled 88 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>45650978
>Use the Harpoon Gun (Roll 1d100 + 20) [Sukukaja Bonus/Fog Breach cancels each other out.]

WHEN YOU SEE THE GREEN HORSE!

>>45651017
BREAK YOUR WRIST AND POWER YOUR COMPS MEN!

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>>45651017

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>>45650994
>>45650996
>>45651017

Maybe it’s because you’re used to spending more time with heavier weapons (and guns that shoot with gunpowder based ammunition, for that matter), but the recoil of the thing is surprisingly low. Sure, the ammo is huge, considering that it’s a FUCKING HARPOON, but eh. Air is air the end of the day. Still makes your shoulder ache something awful.

But you’re doing something right, or someone from up there is smiling on you. The harpoon ejects itself from the rifle, whirring through the air at a surprising speed as the rope trawls out of the wrapping of the gun. The timing of leading the shadow on and firing where it’s going to be works in your favor.

You aimed for its neck. Going for the main body seemed to risky since the danger of impaling Barnes was there. And a head shot was just too much to ask for. The neck, though? Very manageable.

And quite painful, too. The demon's scream makes your hair stand on end, and causes Pixie to cover her ears.

>You scored a Critical Hit!

>Roll 1d10 + 10 Gun/Pierce Damage
>Multiply result by x3

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Rolled 1 + 10 (1d10 + 10)

>>45651277

Rolled 9 + 10 (1d10 + 10)

>>45651277

Rolled 2 + 10 (1d10 + 10)

>>45651277

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>>45651293
>57 Damage
dayum

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>>45651319
I feel nothing but shame for not rolling a ten

>>45651289
>>45651293
>>45651307

Mere seconds later, Victoria’s demon manages to dispel the fog obscuring the demon from your sight. The mist slowly starts to break down, weakening and thinning out until everything becomes visible.

The demon floats on the surface of the ocean, breathing hard and momentarily stunned from the impact. It’s out of the loop enough for its skin to stop being adhesive, apparently, since Barnes is sliding right off it like oil on water. Probably should do something about him before he drowns.

But you digress. A steel rod that’s almost the size of your forearm has completely penetrated and perforated through the skin of the monster’s neck.

You briefly look down at the gun, and then back again at the demon as if to confirm, yes, holy shit, you did that you absolute madman.

Your demons cheering wildly do nothing to help you out of your shock.

>Go for a swim and recover Barnes.
>Haul the Each-Uisage away from Barnes.
>Custom option.

>>45651395
>You briefly look down at the gun, and then back again at the demon as if to confirm, yes, holy shit, you did that you absolute madman.
>
>Your demons cheering wildly do nothing to help you out of your shock.

We're awesome and Pixie a bestie

also
>Haul the Each-Uisage away from Barnes.
>Order Victors to get Barnes once he's clear

>>45651395
>>Haul the Each-Uisage away from Barnes.
Have Victoria and Gryphon go for Barnes

>>45651395
>Haul the Each-Uisage away from Barnes

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>>45651419
>>45651426
>>45651434

…considering what happened to the poor bastards, it’s probably not best to go for a swim. Knowing your luck, the more natural marine predators are bound to be coming in. It would just be your luck to be attacked by a legitimate shark this time. You’d be the laughingstock of the division, and while you’re fairly sure that Victoria and MacKay would be upset, you aren’t sure whether or not Brady or Fitz would die of laughter.

But enough internal monologue. You’ve got a monster to haul in, and it’s time to get that elbow grease flowing…not literally. That’s quite disgusting. Go see a medical profession for that immediately.

“Victoria, Gryphon, do you think you can get Barnes out of the water?”

Gryphon makes a shrill noise that you believe is approval, while Victoria nods slowly, her eyes not moving away from the spear and the rope that leads back to you. “If we can get him onto your demon’s back? Sure. There’s no more room on the talons anyway…”

With that, you start pulling the demon towards you. It’s hard work, and the monster’s just as heavy as a natural equestrian on land. The lapping waves don’t make it any easier though, but you’re making good progress. At least fifteen feet in a minute. Not bad.

>Hey anons, how’s your luck so far?
>Roll 1d100 to avoid something bad from happening.
>Rope breaks, harpoon slips out, etc.

Rolled 53 (1d100)

>>45651569
I AM BLESSED BY LADY FORTUNA!

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Rolled 78 (1d100)

>>45651569

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Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>45651569

Rolled 39 (1d100)

>>45651569
Mm, if only we could heat up that harpoon like a soldering iron....

>>45651623
Can rope conduct electricity? Could have Pixie give it a constant stream of volts if so.

>>45651630
I dont advise it. The harpoon is indeed a sizable amount of conducting metal, but uh, seawater EVERYWHERE

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Once you’re certain that they’re safe enough, you signal for Victoria and Gryphon to fish Barnes out of the water. It takes the girl more than one, two, three tries before she successfully manages to haul the bleeding man out of the water and flop unceremoniously onto the back of Gryphon.

Well, now that that’s over and done with…

The Each-Uisage looks at you with wide eyes and a mouth full of teeth. It doesn’t struggle out of fear of widening the wound in its throat. It’s smart enough to know that much. Breathing hard and snarling defiantly, its breath comes out in violent, short gasps of barely-comprehensible words.

“DEVVVIVLLLL SSUUUUMMMOOONNNEERERRRRRR SMEELLLSSSSS”

You frown. Of course you do. Duh. You just spent the last few hours trying to save Barnes and Davidson from being eaten.

“THREEEEAAADDSSSS OFFFFFFFFFFF SUUUNNNNNLIIIGGGGHHHHTTTTT”

You’re on a sinking boat. And you should probably skedaddle sooner rather than later. Still, you aren’t even sure if you’ll get another chance like this again…

>Free the demon.
>Kill the demon.
>“…threads of sunlight?”

>>45651780
>>“…threads of sunlight?”
TREAT THE DISEASE NOT THE SYMPTOMS!

Solve the problem so it doesn't happen again

>>45651780
>“…threads of sunlight?”
Kaz Gremlin should have made that Ice Platform by now. Walk on that.

>>45651780
>“…threads of sunlight?”

>>45652000
>What are threads of sunlight?
The light being disrupted by swimmer in the ocean?

Hope? fuck if I know

>Release the demon?
>No

>>45652000
>What are threads of sunlight?
I can only come up with what >>45652032 said as well. Not a whole lot to go on.


>Release the demon?
>No

>>45652032
>>45652084

...oh goddammit. My Word processor fucked up. Fucking hell, and I realize this only now.

I can fix this!

>>45652000
Wait maybe Devil summoners smells and threads of sunlight is one thought?

As in devil summoners smell like threads of sunlight?

Could as an opposite to the not kelpie from the depths of an ocean being dark and cold, living things like people warm and bright? But not just any people good people like helping charity or us saving them being devil summoners making us and the Donors he went after smell like sunlight?

>>45652131
Maybe because Adrian donated he smells like threads of sunlight? Kelpie seems fixated on him and not Victoria or Fitz

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>>45651793
>>45651806
>>45651883

Hearing the demon talk is nothing new that you haven’t seen before. After all, most of the demons back in Camp Cocytus were capable of speech to whatever limited degree they could muster. But it’s odd to see the monster that’s been terrorizing the coastal town of Rehoboth suddenly break out into dialogue.

‘Devil Summoner’ was not out of left field. But what came after most certainly was.

Speaking of which, the ice platform Gremlin made floats over towards the wreck. One hop, skip and jump later finds you on some surprisingly non-slippery ice.

“…threads of sunlight?” You repeat. “Threads of sunlight…what the hell does that mean?”

The demon doesn’t seem to hear you, only repeating its words with the same guttural tone of voice. “THRREEEEEAAAAAAADDDDDSSSSS OFFFF SSSSUNNNNLIIIIGGGGHHHHTTTT”

You would’ve thrown your hands up in the air if you weren’t holding onto the rope. “Okay, well I have no idea what that means, Mister Ed. What the hell is a ‘thread of sunlight’?”

The Each-Uisage doesn’t register your insult, the uncultured swine. Instead, it swings its head back and forward as much as it can without disturbing the metal rod in its neck, sending water from its mane of rotten-smelling hair. “THREAAAADDSSSSS OFFFFFFFFFF SSSSHHHAAAAADDDDDOOOWWWWWWWSSS”

You frown as the mental gears in your brain start turning. You aren’t even halfway finished when the demon speaks up again. “REEEEEEEELLLEEEAAASSSSSSSSSSSEEE”

>What are threads of sunlight?
>Write-in

>Release the demon?
>Yes
>No

>>45652172
Getting warmer...

>>45652200
People who donated but not out of good will?

The threads of sunlight but threads of shadows would imply the opposite? Tainted? We mostly donated to keep in good graces with them as they were important to our case, and seeing as it was 9ish people who were attacked but presumably more donated then that at this event, would those nine have done so out of an ultior motive?

>>45652243
Threads of sunlight would mean good*

also
>Release the demon?
>No

You guys are thinking to metaphorical. Be more literal and pay attention to every gesture. That's all I can say without tossing up my hands, pulling my hair out, and ultimately giving you a dice roll.

I also did mention what they were last thread. Interlude snip, to be specific. And I would hope that my clues are enough since they seem fairly obvious to me. Then again, hindsight is 20/20.

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>>45652200
>Release the demon?
>No

Man its hard to do puzzles this late.

This thing kills people that donated.

But not all of them, considering only 9 people died but, many people donate at a charity drive.

What makes them special and is Adrian part of that group or something different.

But it also attack in broad daylight for some reason.

Bleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeh

Blonds? Is it fucking blonds?

>>45652307
Oh god damnit

Threads of sunlight is blond

>>45652333
Blond?
What? explain

>>45652332
>>45652333
yup seems so

Cold is the flesh that clings to my skin…

Like threads of sunlight from your pretty head…

Sending others in your own place...

You can never escape or deny your sin…

Years may go by, and I will give chase...

And stop when your corpse is cold and dead...

Also she is killing others in place of herself maybe but it could also imply another thing is mucking about causing her madness

>>45652345
Adrian is a blond. So is Madison.

Threads of Shadows was black hair, NotKelpie was gesturing to his hair,

>Instead, it swings its head back and forward as much as it can without disturbing the metal rod in its neck, sending water from its mane of rotten-smelling hair

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WE HAVE A WINNER

>>45652350
>>45652359

So she kill people by tying her hair to the victim?
Plausible

>>45652375
Also sorry for being dense Kaz but with Fae I jump to bullshit metaphors by default

>>45652391
I don't blame you as much as I blame the trend of out-thinking the room. Hell, I'm prone to it from time to time. But at the end of the day here, a thread of sunlight is just a strand of hair and not some kind of metaphor about charity and love.

...I'm very tired, and I have a midterm in a few hours. Let's pick this up tomorrow, okay? We'll open up with Adrian making the deduction. We've gotten a lot farther than I was expecting, even with a few minor set backs. Good job with the rolls.

inb4 everything goes to shit next time

>>45652421
Thanks for running Kaz.

>>45652421
>I'm very tired, and I have a midterm in a few hours

Damn, midterm already?
Thanks fer running ye crazy bastard. Hope you got good rolls on the exams

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>>45652448
>>45652472
There's no greater pleasure that I can derive from this world than to share in an adventure with all of you. All of the roadblocks and hiccups along the way are just milestones of hilarity to look back on with fond memories. I hope you can say the same when all's said and done.

===================

Gonna archive it in a few minutes.

Follow me on Twitter for session times and other TF666-related stuff: https://twitter.com/TaskForceKaz

Don't forget to vote for the previous threads on suptg: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Devil%20Summoner%20Task%20Force%20666%20Quest

Hope y'all have a good night/morning/day/afternoon wherever you based anons are.

>>45652333
wow, I didn't catch that at all.

In retrospect, sunlight is often a metaphor for hair, but it's not exactly what comes to mind when you've been mucking about in the brine.