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File: Miranda Styles #5.png (339 KB, 577x894)
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Hello! Welcome to Magical Girl For Hire Quest!

You are Miranda Styles, a relatively unscrupulous magical girl currently working for Silver Eye Solutions, a umbrella corporation for magical girl mercenaries such as yourself, located in scenic The Intersection, a dimensional nowhere and everywhere where you rest and get details for your next job. Currently, you're in the middle of a job in a swords-and-sorcery universe to take down a ragtag group of youths call The Longshots that probably have some kind of chosen ones shtick going on- whether it's by convincing them to join your clients, the mysterious Knights of the New Moon, or by outright elimination- the choice is yours.

You've recently learned that the Church of Orind- a seemingly benevolent and righteous religious group in Alban, and heavily based in Tenimbaum, city of magic- is in actuality very corrupt beneath the surface, and has been engaging in various manipulative practices such as brainwashing and assassination in order to quiet dissenters about their influence. You managed to convince Sorina and Basil of The Longshots to assist you in bringing this corruption to light, which resulted in the discovery of an underground complex beneath the Church's temple- as well as a number of prisoners. You and the duo then proceeded to free the prisoners, and Sorina and Basil caused a panic and distraction while you blended in with the clergy group and managed to steal some incriminating documents in the mad rush to escape the area.

Sorina and Basil both took injuries, but while Basil's were light, Sorina suffered a massive gouge to her side. Thanks to your remaining Minor Health potion, you were able to mitigate the worst of it, but the escape was still harrowing. Retreating to the inn in the dead of night, you put your own healing talents to work and were able to finish healing the gouge. They then asked more about you, and you then told them about your affiliation with the Knights of the New Moon, which they took to varying degrees. Sorina requested she and Basil have some alone time, which resulted in you going a couple doors down to Geegee's room to do so.

Previous Thread: >>565617
Character Details: http://pastebin.com/9J70gqM2
Miranda's Techniques: http://pastebin.com/eTu7U2PZ
Twitter!: https://twitter.com/MGFHandler


(Glad to have you here!)
>>
Geegee's actually impressively formal and professional when she wants to be. Legs crossed, hands steepled, face impassive and showing practically no emotion whatsoever; she looks every ounce the careful, hardened businesswoman despite the clear bags under her eyes from having been woken up in the middle of the night. You could see why she handled the business side of things, really.

She'd figured out something was up simply by way of the fact that you'd come in without much warning and, in her own words, 'spooked me right the crap awake.' Not that you were trying to do so, mind, you'd heard something coming from the doorway and assumed she was awake. You had no clue she was a sleep-talker. Something new every day even at your age, you suppose.

By the time you “So...you found out that the church was spinnin' a giant lie, was mind controllin' dissidents, freed a bunch of prisoners they'd taken, stole summa their papers and now you're plannin' to find some way to condemn the church?”

“I thought it'd be in your best interests to know,” you respond.

She sighs. “Okay. So...whaddya want from me? This might be your big fat favor.”

>Nothing. If all goes well, I won't need anything from you. Just letting you know as a courtesy.
>I want you to back me up when I make my statement. If need be, I know a sanctuary for you.
>I need you to be my alibi in case the church tries to counter my statements.
>Other
>>
>>591032
>I need you to be my alibi in case the church tries to counter my statements. Do you have any ideas? Is a goblin even going to be credible in the eyes of these people?
>>
>>591032
>Nothing. If all goes well, I won't need anything from you. Just letting you know as a courtesy.
Let's not use up our favor just yet.
>>
>>591032
>>Nothing. If all goes well, I won't need anything from you. Just letting you know as a courtesy.
>>
>>591032
>>Nothing. If all goes well, I won't need anything from you. Just letting you know as a courtesy.
Although if you're fins he'd with those invisibility potions, you should keep one handy. Also, I don't think our betting scheme is going to fly.
>>
>>591032
>Nothing. If all goes well, I won't need anything from you. Just letting you know as a courtesy.
>I need you to be my alibi in case the church tries to counter my statements.
We were never there!
>>
Just makin' conversation. Writing!
>>
>>591158
Wonder if we should go take out a loan...

By the way, how should we go about our duel so as to make the KotM appealing to our victim?
>>
>>591379
You mean Adel? Tell him to put on a good show and then we pretend to be going all out while being as flashy as possible
>>
>>591394
Is that likely to make him more willing to be recruited? I was thinking more along the lines of 'git gud, fagget, also there are good trainers among the KotM, hint hint.'
>>
>>591416
He was spoiling for a fight, so let's give him a good one. He seems to be the type to follow the rule of cool and we are the coolest of them all. Sorina and Basil will take care of the rest.
>>
>>591032
You shake your head. “No need to worry about that yet. I was largely just telling you as a courtesy.”

“Oh yeah?” She leans back. “You're that confident in whateva dirt you managed to dig up on 'em?”

“That, plus the witness testimonies from all the freed prisoners should put some pressure on the church,” you explain. “From what I'm aware of, Orind himself likely wouldn't condone this kind of behavior from people who supposedly respected him. That, and it seems like the church itself might be a bit more hardline in the public eye anyway than most who worship. Does that sound about right?” you ask. You had seen and heard plenty of people saying stuff like 'Praise the Noble One' and whatnot, but never quite to the extent you heard in the college or the church.

She gives it a bit of thought, but eventually nods. “Yeah, that sounds alright. Like you probably noticed, I wasn't the first to think somethin' screwy goin' on over there- but most folks are smart enough to keep it to themselves. I've seen a couple of folks real heavy into it, but they're not as common.”

“That's because they were most likely brainwashed and sent back into the streets, or secretly part of the church.” You note.

She shrugs. “Well, either way, you're bound to get a couple folks askin' questions if you go public with it- especially if you got hard evidence like you say.” She stretches in exhaustion, “Mmmm...but, the church is the Church, though- they're the ones who set up the Mages' College, and a bunch of other systems besides, so it might not be as easy as 'hey, these guys are liars, here's why' and suddenly everyone's breakin' out the torches and pitchforks.”

“I'm aware of that,” you acknowledge. “I'm just trying to get some people to realize.”

“Right, right.” She's about to clamber back into bed when she suddenly pauses. “Say, speakin' of. You're stayin' in here for the night or what? Those two are in your room, so whatcha gonna do?”

>I'll leave them be and talk to them in the morning. Do you mind?
>I'll get them a room for a night.
>It's still my room. I'm going back.
>Other.
>>
>>591519
>I'll get them a room for a night.
>>
>>591519
>I'll get them a room for a night.

>Other
When we escort them to their room, tell them that Tavis ratted out Sorina to the high priest.
>>
>>591519
>>I'll get them a room for a night.
>>
>>591032
>By the time you “So...you found out that the church was spinnin' a giant lie, was mind controllin' dissidents, freed a bunch of prisoners they'd taken, stole summa their papers and now you're plannin' to find some way to condemn the church?”
>By the time you-
Huh?
>>
>>591580
Mistype.
>>
>>591519
>>It's still my room. I'm going back.

We might wanna sabotage the Church a bit more, in case they get ideas about using their mages.
>>
>>591568
supporting
>>
Springing for a room.
And yet more uncomfortable truths.
Writing!
>>
>>591519
>I'll get them a room for a night.
>>
>>591658
Can't be more uncomfortable than having a falling out with your friend and comrade who is hell bent on sending you to a prison to be mind raped.

Like, that's got to sting you know?
>>
>>591519
>“I'm just trying to get some people to realize.”
Hm, we should join the Church and partake in their fortune. All this goody-goody won't pay off...
>>
>>591766
Hey, Acolyte Tavin has a squeaky-clean brain, it's not his fault!

We should go kidnap the woman in charge of the Reflection Area, she's an important witness.
>>
>>591519
“I'll spring for a room for them,” you say. Would be a better option than sleeping in the same room with them, and if Geegee was a sleep-talker, then you weren't all that sure that sharing a room with her would be a great idea, especially considering it was already past midnight.

“Suit yerself,” is all she says, and she's practically out before you even close the door behind you.

It's a simple task to go downstairs and plunk down a few extra coins for a spare room, thanks to the advance you got. He points you to the next open room, and you quickly go to yours to get Sorina and Basil out of it. They're mostly curled up on the bed, Sorina leaning on Basil's shoulder. Judging from the tear stains on her cheeks, she just got through a crying session. Basil's face looks miserable, but he's holding together well enough.

They both look up at you as you enter. “I got you both a room. It's probably not a good idea for you to go back to your team right now.”

They both nod wordlessly, and move to follow you, Sorina being supported by Basil. She's not still hurt, you're fairly sure, but it seems like she's emotionally deadened at the moment. Their room fortunately isn't very far down from yours, so it's a short walk, and they quickly settle into the new room. “You in particular should be careful, Sorina,” you warn as you're about to leave. She looks back at you in confusion.

“Apparently, Tavis told them about your doubts. You might be a target.” The sheer shock on her face is the last thing you see when you close the door for them. Whatever happened tomorrow, you're sure will turn out at least somewhat interesting. As for tonight? You have a bit of rest to get. Hopefully this ceremony isn't going to be TOO early in the day...


As you wake up, you're surprised that you feel decently refreshed. As you head downstairs for the inn's breakfast, you know it's time for the tournament and medal ceremony. The only question is how you want to handle it.

> Go wake up Sorina and Basil and see where they stand.
>Head to the prince's castle, see if there's anything particular he wants from you.
>Head to the arena, that's where the whole thing will be anyway. They'll get to you.
>Other.
>>
>>592056
Wake them up, and then go to the castle.
>>
>>592056
While leaping to the prince seems like a decent idea, the high priest has surely already gotten the jump on us.

>Other.
>Scope out the arena and its surroundings, see if we can sniff out church agents and get a handle on their plans.
>>
>>592056
>>Head to the arena, that's where the whole thing will be anyway. They'll get to you.
>>
>>592056
>Go wake up Sorina and Basil and see where they stand.
>>
>>592056
>>Head to the arena, that's where the whole thing will be anyway. They'll get to you.
>>
>>592056
> Go wake up Sorina and Basil and see where they stand.
>Head to the arena, that's where the whole thing will be anyway. They'll get to you.
>>
>>592056
> Go wake up Sorina and Basil and see where they stand.
>>
>>592056
>Go wake up Sorina and Basil and see where they stand.
We're literally in the same building. Can't take that long.
>>
Hokay. Waking them up, then going to the arena. Writing!
>>
>>592056
Might as well check on your 'guests' first. After a quick meal of grits, eggs, and meats, you head back up to their room. You knock on the door a couple of times; they're probably up. You can hear a yelp and a thump rather suddenly- seems like someone just fell out of bed. Okay then, maybe you might've been wrong. There's only a bit of time before you hear footsteps, and Sorina answers the door, looking ragged and generally like she really didn't want to wake up. Behind her you can see Basil picking himself up off the floor- not too surprised.

“Just waking you up because of the event today.” you note. “I just wanted to know what your plans were for it. I'll be leaving shortly for the arena, myself.”

Basil picks himself up with a grunt, and looks at you with the always-eternal 'damnit, why did you wake me up' scowl. Some faces were absolutely the same, even across time and space.

To their credit, they seem to mentally clear up quickly. “Oh, uh...we hadn't really talked about it that much, it was mostly just...” She starts to say, but she just shakes her head. “...nevermind. We...we need to at least talk to Tavis. Somehow. I don't think he knows what he's doing, and we need to help him realize. We're worried about him, and if he doesn't know the truth of the church, then...”

Basil nods. “Yeah, Tavis is a good guy. Eager, dedicated to doing right! If he's being used as a patsy for this messed up stuff the church is doing? I'd hope he wouldn't stand for it...”

Sorina looks back at Basil. “My concern is just how deep the brainwashing goes...there's no doubt he's been affected, but I wonder if there's enough of him that's separate from the church to see reason...”

>I wouldn't bet on it. It sounds like he's extremely devoted, and the brainwashing is likely too thorough.
>It might be possible. If he's as honorable as you claim...maybe there's something else.
>Other
>>
>>592422
>>It might be possible. If he's as honorable as you claim...maybe there's something else. But I wouldn't bet on it.
>>
>>592422
>It might be possible. If he's as honorable as you claim...maybe there's something else.
Tragic past and hero worship of the original hero that the curch worships, use the fact that the Original Hero would not approve of brainwashing no matter how 'noble' the reasons.
>>
>>592422
>>I wouldn't bet on it. It sounds like he's extremely devoted, and the brainwashing is likely too thorough.
>>
>>592422
>Other
He went straight to the Head Priest to tell on you, Sorina. If he's able to just go and chat with the man himself he must be either deeply involved or the inner circle are certain his brainwashing is strong enough that they trust him. Things are going to go down, hard and fast, either during or after the duel- at least wait until after this.
>>
>>592422
I blanked, that option is supposed to be:

>It might be possible. If he's as honorable as you claim...maybe there's something else that can be done.

I dunno why I just blanked on the end of the sentence.
>>
>>592422
>It might be possible. If he's as honorable as you claim...maybe there's something else.
>I'll be honest, the chances are slim. But still, you know him better, and I'd rather have a full team then none.
>>
>>592422
>Other
>Perhaps the KotM have something that could help him...
>>
Maybe...but probably not.

Writing!
>>
>>592590
(Isn't the Mind-Reading Great Artifact something that would be extraordinarily helpful for this sort of thing?)
>>
>>592654
It probably would have been, but we'd need the centerpiece to gain access to its full power, and we already gave it to the Moon Men for a bonus.
>>
>>592422
You've seen this before. People who refuse to believe that one of their own has turned. They'll fight and rant and rave against it in their own ways, but it usually ends up blowing up in their faces when they deny it to the point of nearly either getting themselves killed or whatever purpose they were fighting for ruined. Some could be brought back, you're plenty aware, but people like this? Brainwashed from near birth?

...But no, that's not the best thing to say right now. At least not exactly like that. You still need to be frank, though. “Well, from what I'm aware of, if he REALLY is as honorable as you claim...there may be a chance to make him see reason.” She starts to smile, but you shut that down quickly. “I wouldn't bet on it, however. Personally, I think that chance is too slim to risk. That said, it's not my call.”

“I...I don't want to admit that he's lost just yet.” Sorina states. “The idea that everything we've been through is only in the name of the church? That...that would...”

“It'd be possible,” Basil states. “And believe me, it SUCKS even thinking of it. But...” He sighs. “Agh, I didn't wanna think about this this early in the morning. I'd at least like breakfast.”

“They're still serving it downstairs,” you point out. “Clean yourselves up, have some, and I'll be at the arena. Like I said, I would...very much not recommend being by yourselves for now, or being alone with Tavis.” You close the door, leaving them alone yet again, and you make for the Arena.

When you get there, you're not surprised to see a large throng of people already standing around, and some filtering into the arena itself. It's of little issue to make your way through, however, and you reach the inside with minimum fuss. Aside from the early-bird spectators, you can still see workers setting up the stage, being instructed by a well groomed man in fancy garb- oh. Actually, you recognize that man. He's the fellow that Adel nearly got into a fight with the other day.

Looking out at the actual field, you can also see several other interesting peoples- a couple larger, beared folks that you think you saw the other day, a few leaner types, men and women that all seem like they had a similar idea as you to arrive early. Likely the competition that will be in the tournament. You're not a part of that, however, by your estimation- you'll have to double check that. You don't see Adel anywhere, however, nor can you see any obvious church robes. There are a few younger kids, however- teenagers as well, that see you when you look their way, and immediately start whispering to themselves.

>Go talk to the competitors.
>Go see what's going on with the teenagers.
>Talk to the snobby man.
>Keep to yourself until the Prince comes.
>Other
>>
>>592981
>Go see what's going on with the teenagers.
Hello there.
>>
>>592981
>Go see what's going on with the teenagers.

They're either calling us a heretic, idolizing us, or talking about how hot we are.
>>
>>592981
>>Keep to yourself until the Prince comes.
>>
>>592981
>Go see what's going on with the teenagers.

HEY KIDS WANT AN AUTOGRAPH?
>>
>>592724
> Other
Check if Lillian is around, ask her if she saw anything odd last night.
>>
Connecting with the youth.

Writing!
>>
>>592981
>>Go see what's going on with the teenagers
What could possibly go wrong?
>>
>>592981
>Other
>Start committing heresy as loudly as possible.

Do what the Church prefers us not to!
>>
>>592981
Hm. Wonder what those kids are yammering on about. As you approach them, you can see them freak out in a minor fashion, and immediately they start pushing one of their own number in front of them- he's a spiky-haired young boy, scuffed up in multiple places, and looks every inch like a kid who still hasn't learned how to pick his battles yet.

As you get face to face with the kid, you can see him blush hotly, and try at every inch to avoid looking directly at you. Some of the kids are giggling fiercely, others just have a look of amused fear on their face.

“Hello,” is all you say. The rest of the boys and girls wave and greet you back, but the one in the front can barely get his arm up.

One of the girls is smiling like the cat that caught the canary, and nudges the poor boy in the side, causing him to glare at her. “Well?” she responds. “Go ahead and tell her what you told me. She's right here. I'm sure she'd LOVE to hear it.”

You raise an eyebrow at this, and focus on the kid again, who rounds on her. “No way! I'm not getting killed just for a joke!” What? What joke?

“Aw, dude, she's not gonna kill you,” another boy says. “She probably gets it like, all the time or something.” You look at the other boy, who grins wickedly. “Alright, if he's not gonna say it, I'll say it. He said just now that he'd LOVE to see what's under that-”

“DUDE, SHUT UP!” and the boy nearly tackles him to stop him from getting the words out, much to the other kids' laughter. “I swear, I didn't mean nothin',” the boy says once the other kid's incapacitated due to too much laughing. “It was just a line, I swear, stupid stuff- it's not about how hot you are or nothin' like that!”

“Pftahahah, y-you called her a-a succubus in armor, Kyle!” The girl from earlier is shakily laughing through the words as she turns to you. “He's TOTALLY got the hots for you, he was like, 'Man, I don't care if she's a demon or not, she's smokin'!' The girl can barely keep her composure as she breaks out into another giggle fit as the mortified boy slumps over and puts his hands in his face, beet-red.

> “...it's padded armor. Comfortable...but there's not a lot under it.” Walk away.
> “We wouldn't be compatible anyway.” Pat his shoulder.
> “Not much of a gentleman, are you?”
> “How romantic.” Flick his forehead lightly.
> Other
>>
>>593548
> “We wouldn't be compatible anyway.” Pat his shoulder.
>>
>>593548
>> “How romantic.” Flick his forehead lightly. Ruffle his hair.
>>
>>593548
> “...it's padded armor. Comfortable...but there's not a lot under it.” Walk away.
Givin' no fucks.
>>
>>593548
> "Shame you're a bit too young for me."
> “...it's padded armor. Comfortable...but there's not a lot under it.” Walk away.
>>
>>593548
>> “How romantic.” Flick his forehead lightly.
>> “...it's padded armor. Comfortable...but there's not a lot under it.” Walk away.
>>
>>593548
>> “...it's padded armor. Comfortable...but there's not a lot under it.” Walk away.
>>
>>593615
Might as well add the head flick to my vote.

> “How romantic.” Flick his forehead lightly.
>>
Fucks given: 0.

Writing!
>>
>>593548
>> “Not much of a gentleman, are you?”
We missed out on something useful to see a kid spill spaghetti?
>>
>>593705
It made me laugh, so it's at least something.

As for what to do next, I'd like MAXIMUM OVERHERESY if possible.
>>
>>593764
And play right into the Church's hand?
Just because you expose the Pope's misdeeds and corruption doesn't mean that people will stop being Christians and join up with the atheists.
>>
Woo, it's ti-
What.
Is he the same kid we saw a day or two ago that ran off?
>>
>>593871
>And play right into the Church's hand?

See >>585611
>. “A demon is within our midst. From nowhere she came, and already she has demonstrated abilities that risk revealing our machinations to the highest degree! We CANNOT let this demonic influence go unchecked for any longer!” His voice raises, and trembles. “What we are owed, we have gotten, and now she threatens to snatch it away with powers that should not be hers, feats that leave DOUBT.”
>You can see some people nodding and hear a few agreements. “Should she call in to question the nature of Orind, we stand to lose much of that we have worked for- our right to rule, taken back as subtly as we can, as the descendants of the original settlers of this city! Even if we must operate in the shadows, this land is OURS. No king or prince can state otherwise, and we have PROVEN it!” There are cheers that go up suddenly. “The markets sell according to our desires, in the name of Orind. The soldiers come to us, before their own generals, asking for help and blessings in the name of a man who slew monsters fifty times his size! And the peoples consider us arbiter of law! WE WILL NOT LET SOME OUTSIDER THREATEN ALL OF THAT!” Wanton cheers go up. “And I urge you all to keep vigilant for her. She has been spotted consorting with members of Adept Tavis's group, and our training grounds for loyal mages has reportedly been compromised.” Rats. So they DID find out about the school break-in... “According to our witnesses, she was last seen near one of the canals, too close to one of our Justicar safehouses. I fear that if she somehow figures out what we do here, she will attempt to spreads her taint to him or his. If she does so, the results would be disastrous for us...”
>>
>>594023
High Priest's plan:
>>585616
>“Have you a way to counter this, High Priest?” one brave soul asks. Fortunately for him, the High Priest simply smiles.
>“Oh, indeed, indeed. I have made manifest several actions that, tomorrow, should see fruition in causing her to be outed as a heretic and demonic influence, with proper proofs and witnesses.” His grin is vicious and assured. “Tavis has confessed to me personally about his concerns regarding his allies. I intend to utilize that to both reinforce his belief, and grant us a prime opportunity to remove this threat from the picture.”
>>
>>594023
And then he goes on to say that he will out Miranda as a heretic and a demon.
>I have made manifest several actions that, tomorrow, should see fruition in causing her to be outed as a heretic and demonic influence, with proper proofs and witnesses.

So yes, you're doing EXACTLY as he wants.
>>
>>593548
“Really? How romantic of you,” you say dryly. He lifts his face up from his hands to try to speak-

“Ow!” -and you flick him lightly in the forehead as soon as he does. That sends his friends into another laughing fit, while he's stuck rubbing his head. “Hey, what was that-”

“It's padded armor,” you interrupt.

Everyone quiets down at that, and the boy in front looks confused. “I, uh...pardon?” You sigh...although that's to hide the vaguest of smirks on your face.

“It's padded underneath. Good quality, very comfortable.” You give it a pause to let it sink in before you continue. “There's not much underneath, though.”

The gasps are in unison. You simply walk away, not even turning back to see their expressions. You CAN here a low, “Whooooaaaa...” come out from one of them...and then suddenly random cheers, although you're not sure if they're for you or the kid. Whatever. It was interesting to know that you at least had some sort of appeal among the youth, even if they seemed to be scared of you.

You soon find that although the competitors are still there, the stage seems to be finishing up- the snobby man having left already. The stage seems to be built to be quick to put up and tear down, for the sake of the fighting to be done later. You're still wondering where the Prince is, in that case...ah.

You turn around in the midst of looking for them, and while you don't see them, you do see someone else. A couple of someones, in fact.

Adel and Tavis. Adel's got the same cocky smile you last recall him seeing, looking over the crowd with an eager eye. He's got some fancy armor on, you've noticed- actual steel, grey and red trimmed, with a fancy jewel inlaid in the center. It's strictly a breastplate, gauntlets, and greaves, however. He suddenly sees you, and the grin shifts into a smirk. Tavis, the blonde-haired, brainwashed hero, at this point, also notices you. HIS eyes are much less kind, though you're not certain what he's thinking about you. Probably 'demon' or something like that. His lips move- you're not exactly a lip reader, but even you can make out what he's saying to his friend.

'Be careful, Adel. She's stronger than she looks.' Yeah, he'd probably know about that- although you GREATLY hope that he wasn't aware you were the one behind the last night, if he was even informed about it. You'd done what you could to hide your identity, but there was always the possibility...

Adel makes a big show about patting his friends back, to the latter's mild amusement, and walks off to talk to the other competitors. Tavis, for his part, simply glares at you once again, then moves to head off into the stands.

As for you...

> You need to find the Prince.
> Thinking about it, where's Basil and Sorina?
> Hm. Wonder if you can try to psyche out Adel a bit.
> Other
>>
>>594087
Fair, but note what the priest is afraid of. Calling into doubt the nature of Orind is exactly what we should be doing!
>>
>>594113
I think it makes more sense to call into doubt the actions the church is taking, sidestepping the whole faith thing is a lot cleaner.
>>
>>594099
> Thinking about it, where's Basil and Sorina?
>>
>>594099
>Get something to eat. Wonder if they sell popcorn...
>>
>>594099
> Thinking about it, where's Basil and Sorina?
>>
>>594099
> Thinking about it, where's Basil and Sorina?

>>594113
Let's wait until we get a microphone to do it at, first. Also, it's less about calling into question if the Noble One exists, and more about calling the Church out on it's bullshit.
>>
>>594132
Dunno, the High Priest was kind enough to tell us exactly where their weak spot was.

We really were just handed everything that session, the High Priest just straight-up told us where the incriminating documents would be.
>>
>>594149
With the megaphone spell, you don't need no microphone!

We'll have to give the Prince proof of corruption pronto before the tournament starts. Gives us some leeway when the High Priest's plan starts.
>>
>>594099
>Thinking about it, where's Basil and Sorina?
What we need to do is to discredit both the Church AND the Prince.
If Sorina and Basil see that both the Church and the royalty of Alban can neither be trusted, then they should be more likely to switch allegiance to the Knights.
>>
>>594171
We didn't even read the documents so we still have no idea what we got beyond a personnel list and some weapon budgets.
>>
>>594190
We could let the High Priest carry out his plan, get us 'incriminated'... then use that as a basis for 'Alban can't be trusted' on the Longshots.
>>
>>594187
>We'll have to give the Prince proof of corruption
Not going to be able to do that if we're looking for Sorina and Basil, you know.
If you want to tell the Prince before things start, why not go look for him now that it looks like the stage is prepared and ready to start?

Also, why give information to the Prince? If the Crown Prince of Alban comes out against the Church, and that he's going to clean it up, then what impetus will Sorina and Basil have to leave Alban and swear allegiance to the Knights?

Giving information to the Prince only risks Basil and Sorina deciding to stay with Alban in order to help the Prince clean house.
>>
>>594099
>> You need to find the Prince.
Give him a little warning about the certainty of a church-led desperation move today.
>>
>>594224
>then use that as a basis for 'Alban can't be trusted' on the Longshots.
I'm not following you here.

>be called out as a liar, heretic, and demon who can't be trusted
>mountain of evidence and witnesses backing such claims
>tell people that the accuser can't be trusted
>After we flat out told them that we have an agenda and are working with their enemy
It sounds like we're depending on it working just because we're the main character and everything should go our way just because we say so.
>>
Where ARE those two?

Writing.
>>
>>594099
> psyche Adel a bit
What's with all the politics? Can't we just eat cotton candy and beat people up? I've been waiting for this tournament for ages.
>>
>>594235
It'd be more of a cleansing in the Prince's surrounding. Wouldn't want him to be assassinated before we wish so
...Yet he's likely not to believe our claims so quickly

Sorina and Basil are still our prime targets.
>>
>>594300
Man, people keep voting for it, I just write. Like I said, I'm super open to 'other' options if you want. The options I give are just 'the ones I can think of at the time that make sense'.
>>
>>594300
If you can come up with a reason for why that course of action would help us get a bonus in our pay, net us some neat magical artifacts that we can use in our missions, or learn some nifty new spell, then go ahead, suggest it.
Otherwise, people vote the way they will because it goes towards their desired goals.
>>
>>594300
I'm open to eating caramel apples WHILE we shadowrun. I still need to shadowrun, though.

Hell, let's eat a pair of corndogs while fighting Adel. How about that?
>>
>>594375
I dunno if the referees will allow that though.
>>
>>594267
Nah, nah. See, the Longshots know we're innocent.
>>
>>594300
Don't look at me, I voted for popcorn.
>>
>>594235
>Also, why give information to the Prince? If the Crown Prince of Alban comes out against the Church, and that he's going to clean it up, then what impetus will Sorina and Basil have to leave Alban and swear allegiance to the Knights?
Good point, yes.
>>
>>594438
If they did, though, it might be the first time someone ever won a tourney by making the opponent so angry he gets an aneurysm.
>>
>>594444
Only two of them. There's still two, potentially three, other members of the party who don't know that.
And even if we're clear of heresy, Basil seems to be still suspicious of us, and would likely believe that we have some demonic influence.
>>
>>594099
Now that you're thinking about all of them, you can't help but wonder where Sorina and Basil are. You know they're up and they should likely either be on their way, or already be here- the crowd's steadily making their way in now, and it's hard to tell the difference between one person and another in this crowd. You DO see Geegee, though, if only because she kind of sticks out in a crowd. She waves to you, and you give a quick wave and a nod of acknowledgment back.

You take a quick search around the perimeter, to the reaction of a few curious onlookers, but neither of them are present. Odd. Wonder what's keeping them. By the time you've circled the entire area, you're soon met by an older follow who's in a simply pair of pants and a shirt dyed blue and white, half and half down the middle. “Excuse me, but I believe you're one of the guests of honor, correct? You're needed in the the royal seating.” What? Royal seating?

Oh. He meant the box seats, essentially; the area where the prince is set to be watching the entire tournament- and apparently, you as well. So does that mean...ah, yes. Sure enough, you can see Adel already sitting down, legs crossed up on a table, sipping a goblet of wine. “Well, well! Seems like they finally caught up to my infamous rival!” He spreads his arms out. “Nice setup, right? Oh, before I forget, the prince wants to give us a last minute pep talk before we get our medals and the real show begins.” He twirls his swords a bit- you wonder if he realizes that everyone can see him if they wanted to. “When it comes our turn, I'm countin' on you to put on a good show! I've been trainin' hard, so let's not make it too quick, y'know?”

>Funny. I was about to say similar.
>So you've been talking to the Prince?
>Don't be so cocky.
>Other.
>>
>>594500
>Basil seems to be still suspicious of us, and would likely believe that we have some demonic influence.
Basil, knowing the Church is perfectly capable of fabricating a case like that, believing them over us? I doubt it.
>>
>>594557
"Oh, so you have been practicing to not be a quick shot?"
>Funny. I was about to say similar.
>>
>>594557
>Funny. I was about to say similar.
Yeah, let's put on a good show.

Also, 'What's your story, Adel?' Let him know we've been talking to Basil and Sorina. Let's get to know him a bit.
>>
>>594557
>Other
And where would be the other members of your troupe?
>>
>>594557
>Funny. I was about to say similar.
>>
>>594557
"...In that armor, you look like some highborn wastrel prick. I don't even think that'd normally be in your closet unless someone gave it to you."

That red jewel makes me extremely suspicious. Who want's to bet the armor was given to him by Tavis?
>>
>>594557
> Don't be so cocky
"Rival? That's a little ambitious I think. I'm just here for the atmosphere"
>>
>>594626
Support
>>
...Okay, I'll get to this over time.

Writing!
>>
>>594557
>Funny. I was about to say similar.
>So you've been talking to the Prince?
>>
Fun quest, I'm reading up on the archives. I'm a slow poster though.
>>
>>594954
That's okay. This is a slow board.
>>
>>594954
What parts did you like most?
>>
>>594557
>Funny. I was about to say similar.
it's happening.
>>
>>594557
“Funny. I was about to say something similar.” You say, and he laughs. “I hope your training has given you some endurance.” He quiets down a bit at that, although the grin's still on his face.

“Oh, rest assured, I am QUITE capable,” he says as he winks. As you sit down, you regard him carefully. Really, Adel seems like a very...VERY energetic fellow, and on the whole not exactly the...devout sort. You could be wrong, but those are just your initial impressions. You're kinda finding yourself wondering what he's doing with a guy like Tavis, really.

“So. I'm sure you've heard a number of rumors about me by now.” you start.

He snorts. “Yeah, and I'm pretty sure most of 'em are bunk.” he replies. “You're a freaky one, but I ain't sold on any of that 'divine rival' junk or the sort. And if you were a demon, we'd have noticed by now. Or at least I would have.” He leans over. “I've killed a demon before, y'know. Nasty thing, all teeth and super-long tail and 'raaaawwwr',” he says, miming a biting creature, “and I don't think that'd quite fit you. I mean yeah, there's smarter demons out there, but last I checked, they don't much show up on the primary plane.” Interesting.

“Speaking of, then, what's your story, Adel? I've...encountered Sorina a few times. Basil once or twice,” you admit, “and they seem interesting enough. I don't know anything about you or Tavis, however. Where are they, anyway?”

“Ahh, well, Tavis was invited to the tournament, and I think the Prince asked if he wanted in. I dunno if Tav's said yes or no yet, though, and Sorina and Basil took off last night and haven't come back.” He leans in in a conspiratorial whisper. “Keep this secret, but I think Tavis has the hots for Sorina. Crazy, right? He's been in a funk all day. Makes me think he's gonna say yes to fighting.” Oof. “As for my life story...so, you wanna know exactly what you're up against, eh? Learn the history of just” He wags his finger. “Not so certain that's a great idea- you might get a bit too intimidated!” You highly doubt that. “But, if you insist, I'll regale you.”

Another voice rings out, suddenly. “You'll have to wait on that, I'm afraid.” You turn your heads to see the Prince walking in. “Apologies for the late arrival, but there were a few sudden issues that came up that I needed to deal with. Apparently there was a riot last night of some sort, and a bunch of nonbelievers started ransacking the Temple of Orind. Terrible, can you believe!?”

cont.

>>594954
thank you!
>>
>>595030
You both nod, even if yourself only to keep up appearances. “Tch, losers, all of them,” Adel quips. “If they had a problem with it, they should've stood up in the streets and shouted it. Screw the rumors, let 'em know outright.” Huh. Weren't expecting that kind of response. “If you got a problem with someone, say so, don't pussyfoot around and try and be all sneaky about it.”

“Yes, well, the High Priest has informed me that they're on the trail of the people who've caused it, and are hoping to make an announcement after the tournament. But that's for later. I just wanted to thank you both for agreeing to this- especially considering my admittedly last minute change to a full tournament. It was largely the Head Priest's idea, really- I think he's hoping to use this to later drum up support for the Church in these harrowing times. I can understand the idea, of course. We all need to know that Alban and Tenimbaum have people that can fight. Now, do either of you have any questions for me before we begin? I think most people started looking forward to the tournament more than the ceremony, so I think we'll keep that part short,” he chuckles.

>Do you have any questions?
>>
>>595035
I know it's a stupid idea, but I wish we could just hand the Prince the evidence we've gotten right now. Adel's face would be priceless.
>>
>>595001
The way main character interacts with the separate worlds and the adventure, fun stuff. Currently somewhere in thread 2.
>>
>>595035
Do you have any popcorn?
>>
>>595035
"Non believers, in Alban? I didn't know they existed!"
Didn't Sorina mention that she had found out what the church was planning today? And we totally failed to ask her...
>>
>>595035
Anything that would get me disqualified?
>>
>>595035
"Any specific regulations I need to follow?"
>>
>>595171
She did?

Guyyyyssssss, ask for popcorn! It's important!
>>
Alright, taking a breather. Need food. I'll be back shortly and begin writing then.
>>
>>595185
Support
>>
>>595215
If there were, they'd tell us before the match. It's not something we need to ask the Prince.
>>
>>595035
>>595185
>Anything that would get me disqualified?

>>595171
We have the pieces we needed for a #Churchleak, the problem is there's nothing prepared, organized. Didn't even plan with Sorani and Basil after their breakfast.
Now we lost sight of them at an important time.
>>
>>595221

Right when we were about to rush out into the night we told everyone not to trust authority figures and she said that might change tomorrow because I know stuff. >>587978
>>
>>595409
Nah, that means she found good blackmail material.
>>
Back, have food, writing.
>>
>>595221
Does popcorn even exist in this setting?
>>
>>595726
We can't know unless we ask!
>>
>>595035
“Just if there's anything that'd get me disqualified,” you muse.

“Ah. We'd have mentioned that at the start of the tournament, but in a nutshell, it's largely the obvious stuff. Don't kill or irrevocably maim your opponent, don't involve the audience, and if they concede, don't attack after it's been confirmed.” He takes a moment to think of anything else, but soon shakes his head. “The church agreed to donate dedicated healers for the event, and we have potion crafters who've made a stockpile as well, so as long as no one loses a limb, you should be fine.”

“Sounds like it's all gravy to me!” Adel says. “I say let's get this show on the road!”

You have to agree.

The medal ceremony has begun, and to be fair it's surprisingly well orchestrated, despite the simplicity. The Prince stands up and walks down towards the stage, you and Adel behind him, and he gives a fairly lengthy speech about the intelligence, integrity, and intensity of the Alban people. From what you can hear, he's indeed rather passionate about Alban, and every word out of his mouth is espousing about the importance of its people, 'both native-' -here he looks at Adel- 'and immigrant-' -and now he looks at you. You can hear a couple of cheers go off in the crowd- you're fairly certain Adel got more, but it's not bad for a few days' presence.

The medals themselves aren't that special- carved out of some kind of crystal, you notice- a green, however, which you're not entirely sure if that means anything or not. When he places it around your neck, you don't feel anything in particular. Hopefully that just means it's pretty rock and nothing more. Adel at the very least seems excited for it. Or maybe he's excited because the Prince is finally announcing the tournament. He also states, as he'd mentioned, that the winner of the tournament will face either you or Adel in combat, depending on who won.

As he announces all of the competitors, who walk up in front of the stage one by one, you notice that Tavis simply glares at you most of the time. You're wondering if he wanted to compete...which makes you wonder why he's not. At any rate, soon the announcements are finished- the number comes to a total of sixteen challengers who have rose up to partake, all of which stand in front of you and Adel.

“It seems that we've an even bracket,” says the Prince. “Excellent. I wish you ALL the best of luck, in both this tournament and in your daily lives. Now! Let the combat BEGIN!”

The crowd roars as the stage is cleared, and the tournament is finally underway.

“Kinda wish I had popcorn,” you muse to yourself once you're back in the box seats.

“Really?” Adel looks over at you incredulously. “Why didn't you just buy some? They're sold at the stands for cheap.”

...ah.

>You should make certain to watch every fight.
>There's only a couple fighters that interest you at first glance...
>Most of them don't seem very impressive to you...
>Other
>>
>>595985
This is a 'how much detail do you want'? vote, basically. Since you're not actually competing in the tournament proper, I figured that maybe writing all of the fights might get tiring for you...? Stuff that's going to happen will happen regardless, though.
>>
>>595985
>>There's only a couple fighters that interest you at first glance...
It's probably going to come down to Tarvis and Mr. Fancy.
>>
>>There's only a couple fighters that interest you at first glance
>>
>>595985
>There's only a couple fighters that interest you at first glance...
I'd like to scan the crowd for familiar faces for the less interesting fights.
>>
>>595985
>There's only a couple fighters that interest you at first glance...
by the way, do we HAVE to wear the medal? even when we fight? sure, it's shiny, but it's a bit uncomfortable, and will be a nuisance when we are fighting.
>>
>>595985
> there's only a couple
Like >>595995 says
In the meantime just throw popcorn at any longshots in sight
>>
>>595985
>You should make certain to watch every fight.
Always gather intel on potential competition/opposition.
Miranda's survived this long by fighting smart, and the one time she didn't, she nearly died, and learned not to underestimate the enemy.
>>
>>595995
>>596047
It explicitly says that Tavis isn't competing.
We should be watching what's going on, because he'll probably try to suckerpunch us at the end so that the High Priest can announce the charges against us without us immediately beheading him.
>>
>>596047
>In the meantime just throw popcorn at any longshots in sight
why though
sorina doesn't deserve this treatment
nor does basil
>>
>>595985
>Other
>Go get motherfucking popcorn! Yeah!
>>
>>596058
speaking of, this may be just paranoia, but I want to get out of this royal stat and remove the medal by the end of the competition match.
and like what he said, always be weary of anything happening nearby, be on guard.
>>
>>595985
>>There's only a couple fighters that interest you at first glance...
>>
>>596058
Where does it say that?
>>
There's a few that seem to pique your interest...writing.
>>
>>596078
That's an insult to the prince. Who, unlike the Church, could be on our side.

Adel has the same medal and he's been hanging out with zealot-Longshot. I think that means we're okay on that front.
>>
>>596106
Ah, never mind. I see it now.
>>
>>596112
maybe we can make up an excuse? more popcorn or something?
and you never know, they only LOOK the same.
I'm not trusting anyone until it's completely certain that they are on OUR side.
>>
>>596112
>Who, unlike the Church, could be on our side.
That's pretty unlikely, since we're contracted to a group of people that want to topple the current government of Alban.

And why wouldn't the Church put some more brainwashing effort or a contingency into an adventurer that isn't fully in their grasp yet?

They've got no reason to tell Tavis anything about anything hidden in the medal, so what does Adel being a friend of Tavis have anything to do with it?
>>
>>596068
This. Corn is a must.
>>
Some small talk for Adel: "Hey, you thought about your end of the wager yet?"

Personally, I still want to wager that he'll be our lackey for a week.
>>
>>596290
Knights of the Mooooooon
>>
>>596371
I don't think we could get away with that, with everyone's eyes on us. And I think that the wager probably has its limits.
>>
>>595985
There's only a few fighters at first glance that interest you; there's a guy wearing a bunch of pelts- he's built like a tank, and he looks like he could bench Basil if need be. You're pretty sure you saw him earlier. The second is a man who's dressed in a lot of reds, wearing a mouth mask, and has what looks like a staff on him. He's standing away from everyone else over in the small section reserved for competitors. The third is a girl, brunette with a sword and buckler shield in light armor. She just seems eager to get going. The fourth is an older man, with a halberd- the way he stands, you think he's a soldier, or an ex-soldier. The fifth is another girl, but she seems much more hardened- she wields a pair of daggers, and looks much like a thief archetype, including scar across the bridge of the nose. The last one that interests you is Mr. Fancy Pants, who simply sits there smugly.

“Ugh...” Adel's noticed him, too. “Can't believe that guy's involved in this...”

“Who is he?” you ask.

“Oh, some noble or something. Calls himself,” and here he puts on a pompous accent, “'Baron Voldin, of the distinguished Voldin Family.' He got up in my face the other day, said something about how I didn't deserve to buy something considering a 'man of his status' had so much as looked at it. Feh. I hate folks like that. If Sorina hadn't pulled me off of him...” he shakes his head. “Ah, but then I betcha he's expecting to just roll over everyone here.”

“Do you think he can?” you ask. He just growls and mumbles, but you can't make it out. You decide to just go get that popcorn before the first match starts.

A few minutes later, you're watching a man with a warhammer and some guy with a sword way, WAY too big for him clash. The big blade's intimidating, but its unwieldiness is quickly evident as he swings once and is batted away- and the hammer connects HARD with the poor sap's back, sending him flying. "Amateurs," you can't help but say. Adel scoffs and nods in agreement.

cont.
>>
>>595985
“Hey.” you look over to Adel as he calls. “So, you wanted to know about my background, right?” You nod. “Eh, it kinda sucks, to warn ya, if I'm being honest. I used to live in Corinth, to the southeast, right? Great place, grew up around a lot of hardy guys. I was one heck of a rambunctious kid, lemme tell ya!” Yeah, you could believe that. “Anyway, one day I get into a bit too much trouble, not tellin' what, and before I knew it I was getting chased by a bunch of bandits. I knew that if I got caught, well, I'd be screwed. And then I turned into the wrong alleyway.” He smiles at the memory. “I thought I was done for...but this one guy- old dude, never caught his name- he steps in, had two swords in his hands. It was like, eight guys, but he put them all down in seconds. Didn't kill 'em, either, just smashed 'em all with the flat of his blades and that was enough.”

He chuckles. “I was hooked, in more ways than one. It was right then I knew I wanted to be the best swordsman I could. I thought, 'maybe one day I can save people like he saved me.' And maybe meet him again, if I'm bein' honest.” He leans back, satisfied with his tale. “I met Tavis a couple years into my training. He said he was on a 'spiritual journey' and was looking for someone with 'a lot of heart' to help him on his path. Dude was pretty good at talking it up big, and he swore I'd find tons of wrongs to right and people to save as long as I stuck by him. The fact that he seemed pretty okay at the time was a bonus, too.” He winks. “So, whatcha think of that? Like I said, not the most dramatic story, but it's mine.”

>Not everything needs to be dramatic. It makes sense.
>Could've used a couple more life threatening situations, maybe a fire somewhere.
>Other.
>>
>>596433
>Not everything needs to be dramatic. It makes sense.
>>
>Not everything needs to be dramatic. It makes sense.

>>596160
On our side against the Church. Maybe I got the wrong impression here, but I don't think the nobility are completely in the loop with the evil brainwashing cult stuff.

I didn't get the impression the Knights wanted to topple the government either. If there's a world where the Church is gutted and the war stopped without toppling the government, they'd prefer that one. They don't think it's likely, which is why they're planning to topple it. They planned to kill the Longshots and look how that's working out for them.
>>
>Not everything needs to be dramatic. It makes sense
>>
>>596433
>Other
"Eh, it's fine."
It's a dime a dozen story.
>>
>>596433
>>Not everything needs to be dramatic. It makes sense.
Miranda is not a bard.
>>
>>596433
> Not everything needs to be dramatic
Didn't he say he fight a demon? That sounds more dramatic.
Have we met anyone who fights with two swords yet? Maybe in the knights?
>>
>>596433
>Not everything needs to be dramatic. It makes sense.
eh. typical.
>>
>>596445
This is from Commander Argus
>“It has been several years since the rulers of Alban and Horinth declared war. Their quarrel over their nonsense has proven that neither is fit to rule.
> You raise an eye at the anger in this voice. “We seek to change that. To make for a world that has no 'gods', no masters invisible or falsely raised.

Sounds like he wants to tear down the current aristocracy to me.
>>
Meh, 5/10.

Writing.
>>
>>596508
Masters invisible is talking about the Church and falsely raised could only be referring to some of the nobility. They can't all be Church puppets.
>>
>>596421
>You decide to just go get that popcorn before the first match starts.
\o/
>>
>>596538
Regardless of whether they're all puppets or not, the rulers of both nations have proven that they are not fit to rule in the eyes of the Knights.
You think that removing the king isn't toppling the government in a monarchy?

I don't think that the Knights would be happy with the regime that got itself into this war staying in power.
>>
Fully caught up, it got better every thread.

Were we going to give the Prince the documents we took before our battle? Or are we going to do a dramatic battle of words with the Church?
>>
>>596433
“It's fine,” you insist. Honestly, it was a pretty meh story- one you'd heard umpteen million times. “Not everything needs to be dramatic, and it makes sense. You DID say you'd fought a genuine demon once-” suddenly cheers go up, and you only just now notice that the hammer man has finally knocked out his opponent. You and Adel clap politely when he faces your way, but otherwise you're not interested in it.

“Yeah,” Adel confirms. “It was quick, don't get me wrong- some creepy cult was trying to start up somewhere in the south near the frontier. Me and the guys put a stop to that real fast.” He chuckles. “Stupid thing barely got out the gate before I cut it up. The way it sizzled into nothing was creepy, though...”

“Interesting. Dissipated into nothingness, then?” He nods. “I wonder what makes people think of me as one, then.” Adel just shrugs. “I'd bet it's just foolishness.”

Suddenly, Adel perks up. “Oh yeah! Speakin' of 'bet'!” He leans on the chair, grinning eagerly. “So! I've managed to come up with a good, solid wager for ya! If I win our little tussle..” he leans closer. Please don't ask for a date, please don't ask for a date, please don't ask for a date, please don't ask for a date...

“You have to fork over that Horinthian sword of yours...” DAMNIT FIVE TIMES- wait, what? Huh. You...for some reason, you were REALLY expecting him to ask you on a date. “and you have to travel with us for at LEAST a couple of weeks! Because there's no way I'm letting it sit at just one win!” Oh. Well then. That wasn't...hm.

“So, what about if you win?” he challenges. “I've told you mine, now you tell me yours! We like 'em both, we'll shake on it!”

>What's the wager?
>>
>>596683
>You get to be my toady for a week
>>
>>596682
I hope for the latter.
It's about time we got cheesy with our dialogue.
>>
>>596683
>> You have to be my lackey for a week.
>>
>>596683
He has to be our lackey for a couple weeks.
Because that way, even if he doesn't join the Knights, he can be kept out of our way, still fulfilling the requirements of the objective we were given.
>>
>>596708
>It's about time we got cheesy with our dialogue.
That's not how Miranda rolls, unless she's paid very well for it.
>>
>>596720
She CAN do it though.

There is a certain personality trait of hers that is WILDLY out of character, but it's something of a massive weakness of hers, and you've yet to trigger it. I eagerly await the day you guys do.
>>
>>596732
>She CAN do it though.
As I said, she has to be paid very well for it.
And the current contract doesn't seem to be enough.
>>
>>596683
"Huh. I was thinking the same thing for the second bit."

"I should warn you, though, the adventures we would be going on... Well, they're going to bring you to some dark, dark places. Ones that are... rather distressing."

"But since you also want the sword, I'll ask for that ruby in your armor, to keep it fair."
>>
>>596732
She's a recovering chunni, isn't she?
>>
>>596683
>"You haven't anything in particular I want. But if you'd like I'll shake on it regardless."
This will infuriate him and put him in some perceived debt much more than any wager, I'd reckon.
>>
>>596743
Are you actually intending to bring him to the Intersection?

There is no way that he's good enough to be a merc for SES, and given that if you don't make a profit for the Dealmakers, they'll throw you out into the interdimensional wastes for being a drag on resources, do we really want to have the attention of our corporate masters to make sure that someone we brought remains profitable?
>>
>>596683
I suppose I could support the weeks servitude idea but it could get awkward.I suppose we could just ask him to watch gg for a while.

Also can we ask him how he does his glowy eye trick?
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/513191/#p535709
>>
>>596683
>you have to follow me for a week
this was talked about before, right?

>>596720
if any out of character act can help in rubbing the truth on Tavis's face, I'm game.

>>596732
maybe she is secretly soft for her friends? I did catch hint of that in her thoughts.

>>596745
holy shit this could be a possibility.
>nebula blaster
yup. very possible.

>>596747
kek. might support.
>>
>>596732
I saw the two slips. She used to be a chunni probably.

>>596683
You guys are pretty good at write-ins generally. Almost afraid to mess it up, but

"You have to work under me for a week."
or
"You have to visit the Knights of the New Moon and listen to what they have to say"
>>
>>596759
>Are you actually intending to bring him to the Intersection?

GOD, no! I was figuring we'd have one last infiltration mission, and we'd take him along.

If there was a character I'd take with us, it'd be a toss up between Geegee and Sorina.
>>
>>596762
Following us for a week will just slow us down, though.
Being our lackey and doing what we tell him to do would be better.
Either that, or tell him he doesn't have anything we want.

>>596683
>>596713
Switch mine to telling him he doesn't have anything we want.
>>
Seems like the vote is "you follow me for a week."

Writing. (Last one for tonight. I've been running longer than I expected...)
>>
>>596790
>bringing the loudmouthed hyperactive swordsman with no discernable other skills on a stealth mission
That sounds like a recipe for disaster.
>>
>>596792
wait, but that's what I meant. sorry if it was unclear.
>>
Wait, you got the change in before I said that, and I think that might change the outcome. Depends on what >>596762 says, I think.
>>
>>596798
We can leave him tied up outside while we conduct business.
>>
>>596811
what I meant was that he should follow us and do as we order, like what >>596777, >>596713, >>596711, and >>596701 said.
>>
>>596798
It's basically him being a lackey, anyway, only with a shorter length of time for him to annoy us.
>>
>>596816
He'd still slow us down, though.
We want to take things slowly to get paid more, but if we take too long then we'll start racking up penalties.
>>
Alrighty, lackey it is. Writing!
>>
>>596833
I think we are way way ahead of schedule. The team would slow us down, yeah, but it might not end up being a problem.
>>
>>596683
It doesn't take you long to come up with a decent idea. It could be useful in a number of ways, so long as his pride doesn't cause him too much pain. Or losing it, in this case. “Simple. I win, and you have to follow me for a week. As in you have to do what I say, no matter what it is. My underling, in short.”

You didn't think someone could change expressions quite that fast. He went from confused, to shocked, to scared, to...aroused? To concerned, to confident, all in the space of about three seconds. “Okay! Yeah! I can do that!” He sticks out his hand assuredly, and your gauntlet-ed hand meets his in a firm handshake. “It's settled then!”

“I was considering asking for that gem on your chest, too.” you admit. “Is it supposed to be for anything?”

He looks at it and grins. “Yeah, it's a pretty hard gem. Got a secret or two in it, but THAT'S a surprise. I mean, I'm sure you figured it wasn't just for show, but...” He chuckles. “I'll tell you this, though, it's not something I usually wear. Got this baby gifted to me special!”

You nod. You had expected something of that sort. You don't think it matters much. Soon, they announce the second match, which happens to be the red pole-user against one of the guys wearing all those pelts. He's got a giant claymore in hand, and roars to the crowd as the slim pole user spins his staff a few times. “Alright, then,” you note. “This is a fight that I actually want to watch.”

“Oh yeah, I saw that dude earlier!” He says, pointing at the big guy. “I bet he's takin' it. No way that staff can smack hard enough to dent THOSE abs.”

“I think you might be wrong...” you can't help but note. With him merely giving you a grin, you both proceed to watch the match carefully.
>>
Yeah, done for tonight. Sticking around for about a half hour then I'm outie.
>>
>>596940
>“I'll tell you this, though, it's not something I usually wear. Got this baby gifted to me special!”

FORESHADOWING ALERT FORESHADOWING ALERT THE CHURCH GAVE IT TO HIM TO KILL US RIP THAT SHIT OFF LIKE AN OLD BAND-AID
>>
>>596947
Are we on schedule right now? Ahead of schedule? Behind schedule?

What are the rules concerning bringing people back to the Intersection?

Does Commander Argus and the Knights actually want to replace the governments/royalty of the two nations, or will they be fine with just stopping the war and getting rid of the Church?
>>
>>596940
He looked kinda worried at our terms, guess he isn't as confident as he makes out .

>>596961
Or we could one shot him and not give him a chance to use it.

>>596967 see >>596508
>>
>>596940
Oh, yeah, forgot to add "Bet you two gold pole guy gets him in five minutes."
>>
I checked the pastebins.
>9999 mana
>No mana costs

W-What?? We're even scarier than I thought.
>>
>>596974
>Or we could one shot him and not give him a chance to use it.
I'm betting on drama overruling irony for this fight, so he'll take more then one hit. How much gold you want to wager? I'll go to about five.
>>
>>596989
There's no mana costs written down yet because Handler is still coming up with them.
>>
>>596967
I figure from the New Moon's standpoint, expecting your contractor to travel across the continent, locate a group with little initial intel, then maybe try to convince them to join your side is a timetable of more than six days. Especially since we've also crushed a bandit army and gathered two previously lost artifacts in that timeframe.
>>
>>596967
- The Knights gave you a week's worth of supplies as a baseline. That was, again, them presuming that you'd just kill the Longshots and be done with it. Technically you're behind schedule, but they're considering the possibility that you're 'earning your paycheck' so to speak, what with the two Great Creations + a portion of the Centerpiece wrapped up and giftboxed to them.

-The only rule about bringing someone to The Intersection is 'they'd better earn their keep'. If you wanted to bring Geegee or Sorina or Basil or whoever back with you, there's nothing stopping you, provide both they agree and Sal agrees to transport them.

-Basically what >>596974 said. Commander Argus has no faith in the current systems.

>>596989
I said back then that the mana costs were being hidden, and will be revealed next mission. There ARE mana costs, but I felt it'd be unfair to introduce them mid-mission. My base text file includes mana costs.
>>
>>596996
And yeah, the bandit thing had an effect. Like I said, technically, but they're not really surprised at all. In short, you're fine. You'll know when they start to get ornery, don't worry.
>>
>>597002
How many days has it been then?
>>
What does Miranda think about Sorina learning that float spell in less than a day? She impressed any? Could she do that kind of thing at Sorina's age?
>>
>>596974
I made both of those posts. I wanted Handler to confirm that >>596445 is wrong.

>>596995
>expecting your contractor to travel across the continent, locate a group with little initial intel, then maybe try to convince them to join your side is a timetable of more than six days
We're actually behind schedule.

>>597009
About 7 days.
>>
I guess if we don't have the heroes behind us by the end of the day, we are going to have to just move ahead and remove them.
>>
>>597021
You're only behind schedule relative to initial expectations. They're revising said expectations. That's what I meant with those two posts. I probably shouldn't have bothered with the details just yet.

And yeah I'd have to reread all my entries, but I think it's been just about a week now.
>>
>>597021
Day 1 - Go to Hatham's Hold
Day 2 - Go to Blake's Landing
Day 3 - Go back to Moon Fortress
Day 4 - Go to Tenimbaum, defeat marauders
Day 5 - Break into College
Day 6 - Break into Temple
Day 7 - Tournament/Duel/Medal Ceremony
>>
>>597027
That's true, but it's a grim thing to say when we've gotten Sorina and Basil on lock and Adel looks extremely likely. Offing the zealot in cold blood will probably make Sorina, Basil, and Adel get cold feet.
>>
>>597028
>You're only behind schedule relative to initial expectations. They're revising said expectations
I mean, yes, because we got two Great Creations and a Centrepiece component acquired within four days, and we are making some actual headway in successfully recruiting at least 1, potentially 3, members of the Longshots, they might extend our deadline.

But that's not a very good way to look at things.
We were given a deadline for deliverables, well within our capabilities, and some windfalls have allowed for unexpectedly fast progress on the main contract.
Just because the deadline for the deliverables got extended, doesn't mean we shouldn't be trying to complete the deliverables within the original schedule.
>>
Again, you'll more than likely know if/when they're getting a bit anxious. I have situations planned if it comes to that.
>>
>>597043
>you'll more than likely know if/when they're getting a bit anxious.
Worrying the client like that is not good business.
>>
>>597042
True. And hey, y'all do you. I'm just the writer. At any rate, I'm headed to bed. Night!
>>
>>597043
I'm guessing one of those situations is them calling up our employer and bitching? I want to hear that conversation.
>>
>>596996
Yeah, I don't enjoy the sight of that ruby in someone else's possession. I'd say it either has magic resistance or drain, or will activate Adel's berzerk ability (red eyes) and put him in a frenzy. It likely is something to spring a trap against us.

For the actual battle, let's wrap the flamebringer sword in electricity.:
a) A steel armor would be very conductive, turning the armor into an electrified trap (can't take off quickly, easy to hit) or magnetize it, messing with his swings (Our fists clad in chitinous armor wouldn't be affected)

b) I like the incongruity of having an electric flame sword. Could even pass it as some divine power.
>>
>>597042
>>597045
In short, we should work to be on-time but not ahead of schedule.
Unless getting ahead of schedule gives us a bonus greater than what we would have gotten for those days.
>>
>>597043
>>597028
>>596996

Alright. I didn't think they were unhappy with our progress, from all the work we had been doing.

>>597042
Technically there was no deadline set, just a weeks worth of food given. And we might be able to report back before the day is out.
>>
>>597050
I think it would be better to simply grab onto him when we lock blades.
Miranda has enough strength that she can force Adel to stay locked with only one hand, and her other hand can grab his gauntlet or the edge of his armor and channel electricity through it.

And we should have checked how much of a threat he actually is against us.
>>
>>597050
Wait, we using a sword? Against a sword master? Why not play to our strengths and use force lighting?
>>
>>597054
It'll put on a good show. This is a public event, I don't want to get booed for ending the fight in 10 seconds.

The boos will come later when we get accused of being a heretic.
>>
>>597038
Grim maybe, but the job needs to be done.

>>597054
It never really worked out for Palpatine.

>>597046
Night Handler
>>
>>596940
>He went from confused, to shocked, to scared, to...aroused? To concerned, to confident, all in the space of about three seconds.
what was going through his mind?
>>
How can they have expected us to be done in a few days when they thought we would travel by horse? We jumped like Mario and crossed a whole mountain range in a few hours. Plus or targets weren't even where they thought they would be but we f found them by chance in a foreign countrys capital
>>
>>597062
Don't they believe strength comes from the Noble One or something like that?
>>
>>597062
Literally the whole point we practiced with a sword in public earlier was so that he wouldnt expect us to go hand to hand in the actual tournament. This was an entire discussion.
>>
>>597235
Actually they assumed wed go on foot. They said they didnt have the horses available if i remember right. I can only assume they had to have been banking 100 percent on the Longshots being hot on their tail. Unwise expectations for them to have, but its the only way it makes sense.
>>
Morning. Just saying hi.

I feel like this is more my bad writing than anything.
>>
>>597284
This.

We should use or sword in the beginning however. Play a little then set fire on it and use it to cut/burn the straps on his breastplate so that we can get rid of that gem. It may react viciously to magic.
Once that's done we can throw the sword away or pretend to be disarmed and that's when we take off the kid gloves
>>
>>597313
Hello. Not sure what you mean, it's not bad writing. Not inspired, but not bad.
>>
>>597313
Its not a big deal because the knights are wisely staying off of our backs. If they did get on our case, however, we could leverage it as them trying to engineer excuses to rip us off.
>>
Essentially, it boils down to this:

The knights of the new moon have pretty much no grounds to complain about us for a very long time. Our initial given orders were to take out the bandits, which has been done.

The other objective, which was to keep the longshits from interfering, is also technically done. We could straight up leave now, and theLongshots would be basically too busy with party infighting and heresy to be a credible threat thanks to our revelations. That said, we're halfway to recruiting a powerful adventurer group to th moons cause, AND were engineering an ideological rebellion in the second largest city in all of Alban.

On top of all that, we have now gained enough of an understanding of the value of their money (what with simple potions going for 10s of gold) to realize just how cheaply we've been acquiring Legendary artifacts for them at 10000 per.

They would have to be literally insane to complain about anything we have done. We could fuck off back to the intersection right now and they couldnt say they got a bad deal.
>>
>>597286
They were banking on the sales pitch from Sal turning out to be true.
Not that the Longshots were in their territory.

>>597348
>theLongshots would be basically too busy with party infighting and heresy to be a credible threat thanks to our revelations.
Tavis is the one that has to be eliminated, though. If he's still around, he can still put together another adventuring team.

He's completely brainwashed, and there's no indication we can deprogram him.

>were engineering an ideological rebellion in the second largest city in all of Alban.
Don't assume that it will actually work. The Church has a lot of resources in this city, and they can still turn things around against us.
>>
>>597394
>He's completely brainwashed, and there's no indication we can deprogram him.
Imprisoning works.
>>
>>597408
Maybe counter-brainwashing.
>>
>>597394
No they werent. They flat out apologized they weren't providing a horse, meaning they anticipated it being a problem.

The point is thateven if we stopped now, Tavis and Co have been and would continue to be too preoccupied for the forseeable future. They xant even trust each other due to what we have done, and their ideologies are now directly at odds.

Insurgencies dont get put down overnight, especually when said insurgencies have heroic rallying figures like half the Longshots.

The point was, we dont have to worry about the knights being dissatisfied. The only way they could complain is if they were all completely bugfuck loony.
>>
>>597419
>Insurgencies dont get put down overnight
They can be if the insurgents number less than 30, have little to no support among the populace, none of them are actually trained insurgents but are instead random civilians plucked off the street, and the secret police already know who they are so they can be picked up again.
>>
>>597429
This is why staying quiet is not to our advantage. We need to be loud.
>>
>>597429
>>597419
>>597437

The Insurgency isn't our problem/job, it's only a concern as far as it works towards convincing the longshots to join our ship.

I think that after we beat Adel, and whatever happens happens, we talk to the team for a while to convince them our side is the best side. Then we grab Adel and take him to Moon headquarters (try today) and have him meet the big guys to talk and pledge his support.
>>
>>597446
Tavis is unlikely to let that happen. We'll have to knock him out at the very least, and assuming they'll cooperate, get Basil and Sorina far enough away so they have a head start against Tavis and whatever support the Church provides to him.
Sorina may be on board to speak with the Knights, but Basil was still pretty reluctant.
>>
>>597446
>>597457
Tie up Tavis, bring him along to the group meeting.
>>
>>597446
>The Insurgency isn't our problem/job

Everything that gives the moonmen an edge is our business.
>>
>>597446
That seems like the sort of thing we ask the higher ups about before we do it. I imagine they would want to vet any high profile groups before they were taken to their secret base.

>>597429
Maybe in modern times, when you have tactical networking, realtime communications, and detailed information databases that can be quickly filtered and searched.

I strongly doubt those are present here.
>>
>>597471
>I strongly doubt those are present here.
Yes, but the Church does have the list of prisoners it had, who they were, and where the live.
And these people aren't smart enough to stay away from their families, as evidenced by Jacob saying that he's going home to his son.
>>
>>597497
You think hes going to stay there? Of cousrse people are going to gather their loved ones before leaving. That doesnt mean they arent going into hiding. The church just slash and burned their hq and documents, they cant organize an immediate retrieval.
>>
>>597313
Let's smell the daisies around with our magical nose. The nose knows.
>>
>>597510
>just slash and burned their hq and documents,
They didn't destroy their documents, they were gathering the important ones so that they wouldn't be destroyed or fall into the hands of the escaping prisoners.
>>
>>597517
They are still not immediately available. Their tunnel network is abandoned for however long, they have to deal with the fact that a significant number of people in their employ are injured, the have to find out WHO escaped by HAND, find their information amongst the hastily scavenged paperwork of which we stole a significant proportion of, etc etc. Any retrieval ops they try to mount will take a gross amount of time to organize.
>>
About the payment...

We should see the flameguard official who apparently has an offer for us. We probably won't accept it, but his offer will give us another idea of what payment is usually like. If his offer has an extra zero on the end, we can be reasonably upset with our current arrangement.
>>
>>597573
Its acually Sal who whould be pissed. He got taken for a ride.
>>
>>597573
Aren't they searching for artifacts? We want artifacts. We won't give them artifacts.
>>
>>597625
We've already got a deal in place. The contracts been hashed out. Its just gotta be something to note in the future.
>>
>>597625
We want them as a side-job. Still, we just see what they offer.
>>
>>597648
We aren't interested in their offer. It won't be better than the payment we're already receiving, and taking side-jobs is what fucks Lorelei over.
>>
I hate my job. I hate it so much.

Run postponed until further notice.
>>
deplorable
>>
>>597723
Think a "don't" is missing in >>597648
's first sentence, else the second sentence wouldn't make sense.

>>597573
>Taking counter-offers mid-job is strongly frowned upon, but there is no formal rule against it- simply a policy of if it comes to light, you'll be required to surrender 75% of your earnings on said job instead of 15%. That's not even Sal's call- that's a mandate from HIS bosses. Hence it's generally considered only feasible if said counter-offer is a MASSIVE jump over the initial one.
The counter-offer would have to be at least 3,4 times higher just to set it par for our payment with the current contract, not talking about the extra time needed (we're pretty close from completing our objective).

>>597750
>>597754
Deplorable indeed.
>>
>>597750
Uweh
>>
>>597315
I'd rather not use a Horinth sword in the middle of an Alban patriotism party while beating up one of their heroes.
>>
>>597799
We already used it to kill a lot of bandits. They know we have it and trying to hide it now isn't going to do shit. Just use it.
>>
>>597805
Use it, but not as expected.
Don't make it aflame, electrify it! Swat any smug teen in your way, use the pommel!
>>
>>597799
Can we at least use it to bisect the high priest in half after we fight Tavis on top of the church? I REALLY want to have him get a Darth Maul death.
>>
>>597807
>bisect in half
I personally would prefer gripping him up by the throat and then electrocuting him to death.
>>
>>597805
Was it on fire back then?
>>
>>597750
I was wondering, how are our clothes/armors chosen when we transphase into a plane?
I suppose the accessories we wear in the Intersection has a certain influence, but what else? Is it like the CGI series ReBoot?
>>
>>597811
As long as he screams in terror on the way down, I'll be fine with it.
>>
Run starts in 30.
>>
Writing!
>>
The man with the claymore seems to be competent enough to realize that he needs to stay inside the staff user's range. In turn, the staff user is trying his best to avoid ending up too close to the mountain of a man. It's still just them feeling each other out, you can tell, though. The staff user is largely sticking to safe jabs and trying to keep the big guy off-balance; a smart tactic. The big man is taking the shots well, but he's not getting in easily.

“COME ON!” Adel yells. “CHARGE HIM! MAKE HIM SCARED!” You're not sure if yelling advice from the sidelines is permitted, but he seems to be getting into it. “YOU'RE LETTIN' HIM PECK AT YOU WHENEVER HE WANTS!”

You're not sure if the man heard him or not, but sure enough he manages to quickly force his blade to impact with the staff, and with surprising speed he twists and the pole slides off to the side, forcing the staff user to reorient himself and quickly jump away- now it's a bit of a chase as the staff user is forced to make full use of his agility and weapon to keep the man from hard pressing the advantage.

“Yes!” Adel leans back a bit, comforted. “That's the way!” He taps you on the arm. “See there! The small guy can dodge, but not forever! He's either gonna move in the wrong way and get caught, or he'll run outta steam, now!” He cracks his fingers. “Just a matter of time.”

You look back out on the field. It does seem like the giant has the pole user on the run. The pole user is continuously moving around, trying his best to make sure that he doesn't get tapped by that massive sword...but his movements are still fluid, not jerky, not panicking. He's having to do a lot more, yes, but he's still not getting hit, you can't tell any real forced adjustment on his part aside from utilizing more techniques, but...

> “You might be right.”
> “No...I think he's looking for something.”
> Other
>>
>>598196
>> “No...I think he's looking for something.”
"Two gold says he finds it in under three minutes."
>>
>>598196
>“No...I think he's looking for something.”
>>
>>597765
Yeah, I was posting on my phone from work. I didn't even notice. It doesn't matter much in anycase.
>>
> “No...I think he's looking for something.”
>>
>>598196
> “No...I think he's looking for something.”
>>
>>598196
>> “No...I think he's looking for something.”
>>
>>598196
>> “No...I think he's looking for something.”
>>
There's still a chance!

Writing.
>>
>>598196
No, you're not sold on him losing just yet. “I wouldn't say so quite yet. Look at how he's moving,” you point out. “He's looking for something. A big opening that'll throw him off entirely and shift the momentum.”

Adel, to his credit, studies the fight going on; especially as the staff user dodges a slash and manages to get behind the man- only to quickly back off as his sword swings around in a wide arc. “Mmm...yeah, I can see where you're comin' from,” he agrees. “Just one prob, though. What if it ain't enough? What then?” Hm. Good question, but you're still fairly certain...

The man quickly swings a couple times with his staff, managing to get a few shots into the leg area- you can see the large guy flinch at the last. Perhaps that was the plan...you weren't sure, but it seems like the swordsman was, as he gives a strong bellow and charges the lithe martial artist- who remains in place.

Right about when you expected, he quickly darts forward, aiming low- and it seems as though the warrior expects it, leaping into the air to dodge the strike...

...only to get essentially be on the receiving end of a home-run swing as the staff user pivots, drops his hands to one end of the staff, turns his stance near-effortlessly into a batter's stance, and lets rip. The CRACK of the pole hitting flesh practically echoes around the arean, and the man flops to the ground. There's stunned silence in the room for some time...and then thunderous cheers as the medics come out to attend to the man.

“AW, DAMNIT!” Adel whines. “He HAD him! He HAD him and then he got greedy!”

You nod. “Yup.” To be quite honest, you were getting a touch worried, there. You'd thought that he'd missed his chance, but he made up for it with gusto. The large warrior is carted away, and the monk-like fellow; who is finally allowing himself to breathe hard, and nearly drops his staff from exhaustion, limply walks back to the competitor's seating.

“Can't believe that...” Adel grumbles.

> “Care to wager money on another match?”
> “If it makes you feel better, I wasn't sure right up until the end.”
> “I take it you're not that reckless in a fight?”
> “Can't say I didn't see it coming.”
> Other
>>
>>598372
> “Care to wager money on another match?”

Gambling is fun shit.
>>
>>598372
>> “If it makes you feel better, I wasn't sure right up until the end.”
>>
>>598372
>> “Care to wager money on another match?”
>> “I take it you're not that reckless in a fight?"
>>
>>598372
>I take it you're not that reckless in a fight?
>>
>>598427
>> “Care to wager money on another match?”
Also gambling.
>>
>>598372
> “I take it you're not that reckless in a fight?”
>>
>>598372
>> “Care to wager money on another match?”
>>
You're a gamblin' gal. (and yes, you do play fair)

Writing!
>>
>>598372
>“I take it you're not that reckless in a fight?”
>>
>>598372
You give him a side-eye. “I take it YOU'RE not so reckless in a fight?”

He smirks. “I prefer to call it 'tactical aggression'. He doesn't say anything more, even when you stare at him for a few extra seconds. “What, you think I'm gonna spill my fighting style right before we go at it? I've heard of yours, but last I knew, you didn't know MINE, and that gives me a lovely advantage.” He leans in closer, smirk still present. “How's that for strategy?”

“Fair enough,” you admit. It wasn't anything he was forced to do, you suppose. “Then, what would you say to another wager? This time for money?”

“I say I wonder if you don't have a problem, lady, but hey, that's not a no! What are the stakes, and when? Next match?” You look over the next two competitors announced- a soldier of Tenimbaum, and a long haired man with a look that reminds you of a monk. “These two might be interesting...”

You're less enthused. “No, let's try for a later match.” Neither of those two really felt interesting enough to bother with, for you, and although you'd certainly try to give them a few glances, you felt like you'd be better off spending your time during this match...

>Visiting Geegee or getting her up here.
>Talking to the Prince.
>Looking into what happened to Basil and Sorina.
>Other
>>
>>598675
>Looking into what happened to Basil and Sorina.
>>
>>598675
>Looking into what happened to Basil and Sorina.
If it fails, maybe Geegee could know something.
>>
>>598675
>>Looking into what happened to Basil and Sorina.
>>
>>598675
>Talking to the Prince.

On one hand, kidnap flags. On the other hand, it would be super nice if the Prince had a favorable impression of us when shit starts going down.

Who am I kidding, this isn't winning.
>>
>>598675
>Looking into what happened to Basil and Sorina.
(worry.jpg)
>>
>>598675
> Look for bas-bas and Sorina
They've probably done something heroically stupid.
>>
>>598751
The best kind of stupid!

Right?

...Writing.
>>
>>598751
They're probably planning a big dramatic reveal. Which is good, because from what I can tell the plan on our end is "Get accused of being a heretic" ---> ??? ---> Profit
>>
>>598675
>>Talking to the Prince.
Social Link Get!>>598675
>>
>>598675
Ugh. As you scan the crowd, you still don't see Basil or Sorina anywhere. It's starting to concern you. If they were there right this morning, what could have happened on the way to the arena? You make sure to excuse yourself properly before leaving; otherwise someone might start wondering. At the very least, you could take a look around. Maybe they're just not in the stands...

You seem to get somewhat accosted by random people as you move about, though a quick glare sends them scurrying on their way- the cloak might've hid your intimidating nature at a glace, but it didn't remove it outright. Unfortunately, you can't seem to find either of them anywhere around the perimeter. Hmmm...

“The big guy and the smaller girl? Yeah, I saw 'em,” Geegee mentions as she munches on a leg of something nearly half her size. You'd caught her walking back from the concession stand, and stopped her for a second. “Saw 'em talkin' this mornin', heard somethin' about them sayin' they'd 'be fiine', and they left. No clue what for, though. They were the two that you brought in last night, right?” you nod. “Thought so. They didn't LOOK like they were headed for the arena, though. Geegee scratches her head in thought. “In fact, they looked like they were headed the other direction.”

Hm. What's in that direction...oh. The Mages' College. “Thanks, Geegee.”

“No prob.” As she walks away, you curse lightly to yourself. On the one hand, whatever she's doing in the Mages' College (if that is where she ended up going...) may end up helping a lot. On the other...it could really not. The fact that you're not SURE what she's doing make's the whole thing a lot uneasier, and now you're not sure whether you just need to wait for the big surprise or stop her from doing something completely stupid.

>Pursue
>Do Not Purse.
>>
>>598877
>>Pursue
Agh.
AGH.
>>
>>598877
>>Do Not Purse.

She already called us out for being a stalker the last time. Come on. Don't be intrusive and trust her. Her dying doesn't impact our paycheck if she does bite it.
>>
>>598877
>> Do not pursue.
We just have to trust that they know what they're doing.
>>
>>598877
>Do not Pursue
That's the kind of suprise that can go wrong (for us), but moving right now WILL put the enemies on alert (Tavis is likely still glaring at us.)
>>
>>598877
>Do Not Purse.
There comes a time when the aggravation simply is no longer worth the bonus.
Make sure we don't fall for the Sunk Cost fallacy.
>>
>>598877
> Don't Pursue
Gah, I want to go help them but can't think of any good reason. Although they could be being brainwashed right now...
>>
The vote being phrased pursue vs do not pursue makes me think of Lu Bu
>>
>>598915
True that. After a point, if they can't handle the results of their own actions, its just not worth it anymore.
>>
Pursue. Wow, I missed that.

Writing.
>>
>>598946
You mean Do Not Pursue, right?
>>
>>598946
>pursue
Wait what?
>>
>>598951
Yeah.
>>
>>598946
>Pursue. Wow, I missed that
wut?
>>
I misspelled 'Pursue' as 'Purse'. That's all.
>>
Hm...no. Considering what just happened, you just hope they didn't do something stupid. If they did...oh well. That's not really your job, even though you'd prefer to bring them all in as desired. Then again, smart money said that Tavis would've had to be dealt with regardless, so...egh. You just hope you didn't end up wasting a bunch of time with all of this. That'd be annoying. You decide it's best to just head back.

Whatever happens, happens. At least you have an idea of where they are, now.

When you do get back, the next fight's just about finished. The soldier seems to have won, although just barely, and of course the crowd's going crazy for their hometown hero, so to speak.

“Hey, you just missed it!” Adel says when you plop back into your seat. “You'd have liked this match, real close stuff. Can't believe the dude let go of his sword to bait her in range! Didn't think they taught much hand to hand combat in the military!” He chews on some piece of something resembling jerky- not sure where he got THAT from. “Alla dish ifh maffin me-” he swallows- “Wanna get to our fight faster, y'know?”

“I suppose.” You would be lying if you said you weren't a bit distracted. Unfortunately, Adel seems to notice.

“Hey, you okay?” he prods. “What happened earlier, cause you to up and leave like that then come back lookin' like you're about to start an argument?” Ugh. You're not sure if you want him to know your business, even if your business is technically his business. You could just redirect the topic of conversation if you felt like it, of course...

> Nothing you need to worry about.
> I told you I met Basil and Sorina the other day. I thought they'd be here.
> Other
>>
>>599149
>I told you I met Basil and Sorina the other day. I thought they'd be here.
>>
>>599149
It has to be one of the two latter.
>>
>>599149
> I told you I met Basil and Sorina the other day. I thought they'd be here.

The hell is this nothing he needs to worry about line? He has waaaay more reason to worry than we do. His not-girlfriend could be in trouble.
>>
>>599149
>> I told you I met Basil and Sorina the other day. I thought they'd be here.
>>
Ugh. I'm falling asleep at my comp. I dunno how I managed to get that out. I'm done for tonight. Today wasn't great, sorry.
>>
>>599149
>Nothing you need to worry about.
No reason to get him in on this. Yet.
>>
>>599186
No sweat, gnight.
>>
>>599190
No, there is. The point of this tournament is to recruit Adel. If we can recruit Adel by supporting him while he rushes off to save his girlfriend, so much the better.
>>
>>599186
Hey, we understand. A bad audible at work can throw anyone off.
>>
>>599177
>>599204
You know Tavis is the one with the hots for her, right?
>>
>>599149
> I told you I met Basil and Sorina the other day. I thought they'd be here.

>>599206
G'night. Recover so we can nag you some more next time.
>>
>>599217
I forgot.

I wouldn't be surprised if they all had the hots for her or if there was some stupid love triangle situation going on.
>>
>>599186
On the one hand, I know that you deserve some sleep after the kinds of shit work does to you on short notice, and I'm not one to stop you.

On the other hand, this whole "Can Basil and Sorina handle their shit" stuff is literally going to be haunting me for tonight and tomorrow.

Regardless, good night, Boss. I'll see you tomorrow.
>>
>>599149
>I told you I met Basil and Sorina the other day. I thought they'd be here.
it's TIME.
>>
>>599149
>other
>I'll tell you after our fight

Remember the crystal he got as a gift? We don't know what it does yet, but it might be able to listen in on us.

Let's not accidentally give them away, we can still tell him, just after.
>>
We should ask him if he got handed a small lucky coin.
>>
>>599857
seconding
>>
>>599857
shit, you're right
supporting.
>>
Oh yeah and changing my vote in >>599327 to >>600748

that could have been close
>>
>>599857
Supporting
>>
>>599857
Supporting.
>>
>>599857
Support
>>
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>>600781
>>600803
Samefag?
1 post by these users, one word each, supporting the same vote.
I don't want to be a suspicious bastard, but the internet ruined me.
>>
>>599857
Make the next bet on a fight he has to tell us where he got the crystal from if he loses.
>>
>>599149
>> I told you I met Basil and Sorina the other day. I thought they'd be here.
>>
>>599149
>> I told you I met Basil and Sorina the other day. I thought they'd be here.
>>
Something feels off...
>>
>>601014
Nah senpai. I just don't have much to say. Not aure about the other guy.
>>
>>601242
Um, was that a vote?
>>
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>>601788
Okay, I'll believe you. I shall attempt to curb my rampant paranoia.
>>
>>602203
no?
>>
what is happening?
>>
where is handler?
I hope nothing's wrong....
>>
>>604982
Probably just breaking for the day
>>
Well, he's due for a break. Not many qms run nearly every day.
>>
>>605042
While that's true, I do wish that Boss could inform us on his Twitter, so I can find out sooner.
>>
>>605124
maybe handler's currently passed out for the entire day?
>>
I hope he got some good rest today, he's earned it.
>>
since handler seems to be afk for a while, does anybody know where the archives are? the farthest back I can find is thread #3
>>
>>607538
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Magical%20Girl%20For%20Hire%20Quest
>>
I'm not dead but I AM going to a job interview in a bit! The Twitter says 5 PM, but I'm presuming travel time will be long. Might be earlier, doubt it'll be later, knock on wood.

Just saying hi before I head off.
>>
>>607623
Good luck!
>>
>>607623
Good luck man hope it goes well.
>>
>>607553
thanks family
>>
>>607623
Go get 'em, Boss!
>>
>>607623
Go knock them dead!
>>
>>607623
Remember, if they ask you for any stories or experiences etc, make sure to pick the ones that all end in horrible tragedy.
>>
Back. Writing shortly.

I think they bait and switched me. I went in for a video editing thing and they wanted to know my graphic design experience. Not exactly the same thing.
>>
>>607936
Yeah, it does sound like either they want to hire you for the former to do the latter, saving themselves money, or they want to hire you to do both things, either because they want to save money or because they don't realize the two things are different enough to have separate skillsets.
>>
Holy crap I realized the vote changed WAY too late gimme a bit.
>>
oh boy it begins
>>
As you look back to the arena, looking on as the next competitors allowed to take the field, you can't really help but feel uneasy still. They're his friends, and you get the feeling that keeping this from him may be a bit risky. Still, better than risking him going off the handle when he hears that his friends are missing. You're kind of surprised he hasn't really noticed yet, but you're not going to bring it to his attention. Most likely he is just too excited about the fights at hand. Speaking of, it seems to feature the scarred woman, across from some man who you really didn't get a good look at. He seems like he's a sort of thief as well, really. You can see what appears to be some sort of cudgel in his hand, and what appears to be a very small hatchet strapped to his leg. Someone like him doesn't really seem like the best fit for a tournament...then again, you never know.

Adel seems excited by the potential matchup. “Okay! We've got to bet on this one. I'm saying ten gold on the hatchet man.”

“Sure.” You're interested in the girl anyway, so why not? “Ten on the girl then.”

The two bow to each other, then take positions. With a quick signal, the fight begins.

It's honestly a surprisingly flashy affair. Both contestants seem to lean towards agility based techniques, and there's a lot of twirling, quick attacks, and some probably unnecessary rolling involved. You even saw a couple of flips.

The girls particular style reminds you a bit of a hunting predator. She tries to strike, and then get some distance, and then wait circling as best she can. As soon as the other man tries to make a move, she's on him.

The guy is no slouch either however. Every time she gets in, he manages to beat her back with his cudgel. It's very much like a hunter and hunted scenario, only you aren't quite certain who is who. They both actually seemed fairly equally matched. If you had to take away anything, you'd say that the man's cudgel gives him a bit more reach and impact, while the girl is more aggressive. The man has rarely used his axe, aside from one early swing which missed. The girl's smiling, but she doesn't seem too winded despite the many bruises.

Everyone's cheering this one on. Seems like the man might be a bit more impressive than you first considered.

"Oh, wow! They're goin' at it!" Adel says, practically hopping in his seat. "Still think she's gonna take it? Wanna go double or nothing?"

You flinch inwardly and frown outwardly as an exchange results in the girl getting a solid cudgel shot to the shin, while the man gets a slice to the chest for his troubles- he's bleeding a bit, but he doesn't seem to lose much step, despite a quick flinch. The girl's leg shakes, but holds, and she's still smiling. Hmm...

> "...Alright."
> "No, I'm good."
> "Bah, just take the gold now. Too close to tell."
> Other
>>
>>608100
Oh, wow, I forgot the opening sentence:

You think on it- it's concerning, but it might be nothing. That, and you're rather concerned about that crystal. It's likely just a bit of paranoia coming from you, but then again, a healthy dose of it every now and again was usually good for your preservation. “I'll tell you after our fight, if it's still relevant,” you demure.

He simply chuckles. “Hey, if you say so. I just hope you're not distracted when it's go time!” Oy vey.

----

There, that goes before everyone else in >>608100
>>
>>608100
>> "...Alright."
What? We don't have a gambling problem.
>>
>>608100
> Other
Spy on Tavis, see if anyone in hooded robes starts a whispered conversation with him.
>>
>>608100
>Alright

Can I just say this kid is annoyingly likeable? He's annoying, but in an endearing way. Like a kitten or puppy that won't stop bugging you while you're trying to work.
>>
>>608125
He's definitely grown on me a bit. Still gonna be fun to kick his ass though.
>>
>>608100
>> "...Alright."
Easy come...
>>
You know, we are going to have to take at least a cursory glance at the incriminating documents we stole before the church does their thing. It would suck if we just took the high priest's Ornid fanfiction in the confusion, and tried to present it as some kind of evidence to anyone.
>>
>>608131
Hes starting to piss me off even more, actually. He needs to be firmly set down. Also can we stop with the betting already? Its become excessively prevalent.
>>
>>608100
>"No, I'm good."
>>
>>608100
>"No, I'm good."

>>608143
yeah, this too.

>>608145
>Also can we stop with the betting already? Its become excessively prevalent.
agreed.
>>
>>608145
I agree, I can't wait to absolutely crush him and get this stupid gambling over with.
>>
>>608100
Well… there's no real harm in it, is there? “Alright, then. I'll take you up on that.”

He just claps his hands in agreement and continues watching the fight. You look back too, and after a few more exchanges, you can see that they are both starting to wear down. The man is slouching much more than he was, and the girl is sweating hard and more bruises are beginning to show. She’s still smiling, but you're starting to wonder how much of that is simply bravado or an attempt of misdirection. Both of them are breathing hard.

Adel leans in, entranced by the staredown. “This is it. This one is going to finish up any second now…”

His words prove prophetic as the two charge each other once more. The girl manages to get in close range and swings viciously with an upward slash. The man is able to sidestep however, and brings his cudgel around the back her head in a hard impact. She's not down, but the man quickly fixes that as he hooks his axe around her leg causing her to trip. With another bash to the skull, however, she's done.

Rats. Twenty gold down the drain. You sigh in mild disappointment as you hand over the money.

“Ha HA! My tactical genius wins out again!” Adel crows. You're starting to get good at ignoring his boasts.

As you look around at the crowd, you have to admit, everyone seems really into it. They are cheering on both sides usually pretty evenly, and you yet to see any real yelling or disappointment- wait.

What's Geegee doing? At first you think she's just trying to say hi, but you can notice that she keeps tilting her head to the side, like she can't choose between looking at you, and somewhere else. You follow her gaze- wait. Those were Church cloaks.

>Whatever it is, you've got to stop them now.
>No, don't reveal anything yet. Let them hang themselves.
>Other

Running some late errands.
>>
>>608273
>Whatever it is, you've got to stop them now.
>>
>>608273
>Whatever it is, you've got to stop them now.

This scenario has been driving me nuts for a day and a half. I honestly don't really care much more about mission security, I just really got to know if those two are alright, especially Sorina
>>
>>608273
>No, don't reveal anything yet. Let them hang themselves.

We should trust the other two to have come up with a dramatic revel. I'm not too scared of whatever trick the church is planning.
>>
>>608273
>>No, don't reveal anything yet. Let them hang themselves.
>>
>>608273
>No, don't reveal anything yet. Let them hang themselves.
>but keep attention to them. when something happens, prepare to intervine ASAP.
finding a compromise.
>>
>>608273
>Whatever it is, you've got to stop them now.

Or, at least, scout it out. No need to make a scene of it, however.
>>
>>608273
>>No, don't reveal anything yet. Let them hang themselves.
We really gotta step back on the paranoia a bit. If we start beating up priests while in a position for everyone's eyes to be on us, then we are gonna look like the bad guy here.
>>
>>608327
I'll change my vote to this.
>>
>>608300
Damn it.

Since the first vote isn't winning, changing to >>608327.
>>
>>608273
>No, don't reveal anything yet. Let them hang themselves
If Sorina and Basil get caught and branded as heretics, then they'll be forced to either join the Knights or go independent in the Frontier; either way works for us.
>>
>>608442
You forgot getting kidnapped and brainwashed.
>>
>>608459
That brainwashing thing seems pretty time intensive. We shouldn't assume there's a problem unless they're missing for the rest of the day.
>>
>>608273
>Whatever it is, you've got to stop it now.

I'm really not sure if they're trying to bait us into action or if they're kinda shitty at hiding their actions. I'm going with this on account of trusting GeeGee's decision to alert us to it.

Maybe go talk to Geegee first though to have an idea why she thinks it's important? That'd draw attention to her though... god I hate how much I love being paranoid.
>>
>>608471
if something lie that DOES happen, we should prioritize their rescue over all else.
it would still buy brownie points to adel and would convince sorina and basil to further be against the church
>>
>>608471
While that's probably true, I do remember that there was a "Grand Focus Chamber" mentioned. We also don't know if there are any other chambers filled with bigger or more crystals other then that. That being said, I really like those two characters in the team, and it's more then just "Well, shit, guess we wasted all of this time trying to convince them" to me.
>>
>>608515
We still haven't seen anything indicating that they've been captured. If we do too much spying on them, we might end up losing the goodwill we've built up with them. Just let them do their thing for now, and if we catch wind of them getting in trouble, we hop to it. Maybe we could convince Adel to come with us, if it comes to that.
>>
>>608555
by the way, do we still have that cloak from yesterday?
>>
>>608555
I know, but my imagination still conjures up every single worst case scenario possible. I guess it's something to Handler's story that I'm invested this much, but it still makes me worry my ass off for people who don't exist.

>>608569
Naw, we burnt it.
>>
>>608555
>If we do too much spying on them, we might end up losing the goodwill we've built up with them.
Also, if they're currently still undetected, looking for them could blow their cover.
>>
>>608588
Remember, it's not paranoia if it's true
>>
>>608655
That's not helping.
>>
>>608659
still true.
>>
>>608273

Hm. You're not sure what they're trying to do, but whatever it is you don't want to risk trying to overplay your hand. They'll make their move, and when they do you'll be right there to counter it.

What's surprising though, is how they seem to be somewhat reckless about it. You honestly can't say that you expected the church to be quite as open as they seem to be. While the two that you spotted seems to be watching from the entrance in a half-hearted attempt at stealth, you had expected better than that. Geegee seems somewhat nervous, but she sees you looking in that direction and stops signaling.
Of course, now that you know that they're there you can't help but look in the stands any suspicious cloaks or individuals. Your first person to look at is Tavis.

He seems to be just watching the various fights, but you know he's taken more than a withering glance at you. You can't help but wonder just how dialed in is to the whole organization. They called him an Adept, but you had no clue how high or low that was in the hierarchy.

You do end up seeing what seems to be a couple of familiar looking faces- the two that you had shadowed the night before. It seems that either they weren't involved in the evacuation, or they had just decided that the best way to hide was in plain sight. One of them is simply eating popcorn like you, and badgering the other one. After some time however, the older man gets up and starts walking around the stands. He glances at you once, and that's all you need to make sure that you're only looking out of the corner of your eye for a few minutes. He seems to hesitate for some time just standing around... but eventually he keeps walking...and drops something right in Tavis’s lap.

Well, damnit. About as you expect, he gets up, glaring at you, and swiftly walks out the arena. Juuuust great.

And you missed a fight worrying about all that. Lovely.

You still don't want to give anything away, though Tavis getting involved cannot be a good thing...

Before much longer, you can see someone coming up through the royal stands- it's one of the ushers or something. The Prince- who's been sitting back most of this time, simply clapping, cheering, and letting you two do your thing- looks at him with an eyebrow raised when he enters. The usher bows in respect, every inch a professional. "M'lord, an urgent missive to you from the hero Tavis. He claims that he's had a change of heart and wishes to enter as a late contestant. He claims it's vital that he do so."

"Oh?" The Prince raises an eyebrow. "And why is that?"

"He has not said, although he states he is willing to elaborate to you in private, sir." The Prince hmmms and leans back in thought. "...Well...it might be interesting, but it seems a bit unfair..."

Adel laughs. "Yo, if Tav wants to throw down with me in front of a crowd, I don't mind!"

They both look to you. Seems they want your thoughts.

>Say something about this sudden development.
>Keep quiet.
>Other.
>>
>>608782
>>Say something about this sudden development.
>>
>>608782
>>Other.
"It makes no difference to me."
>>
>>608782
>Other
"Very well. I shall require a bit of preparation if I am to fight both of them."
Tavis is going to try something on us. Probably to somehow prove that we're a heretic and consorting with demons, or an actual demon.

I'm confident that with Miranda's decades of combat experience, she can counter whatever they bring, so long as she properly prepares herself with protective wards.
>>
>>608782
>Other.
supporting >>608816
really not much we can do at this point. be ready for anything, and prepare to throw up defensive actions when he fights us.
>>
>>608782
>Say something about this sudden development.
"I would rather not fight two heros back to back, me and Adel already are engaged in our matchup. If he wanted to join, he should not have decided so late in the day."

Even if we can beat both of them, we should break their plans whenever we can.
>>
>>608782
Actually, in terms of defensive wards, buffs, and other such things, what does Miranda have?
I'd like to have a little scene where Miranda goes off to the side and just starts buffing the shit out of herself.

https://youtu.be/6dxICJHd518?t=31s

>>608842
>Even if we can beat both of them, we should break their plans whenever we can.
I agree in principle; I just think that ramming ourselves down onto the trap so hard that it breaks is a valid method of breaking their plans.
>>
>>608782
>Keep quiet.

Alright, so this might be a problem. Miranda never got this far into her career by underestimating her opponents. I think we should do this cautiously. Adel shouldn't be too much of an issue, but since we are probably going to fight with swords, then he will definitely beat us in terms of skill(which is an issue, but our magic should help even the odds. He's no slouch with magic either, though, since we had to counter his ultimate attack with our own, which is saying something, especially because magic is our specialty.

As for Tavis, he's a little more of an issue. He's likely stronger than Adel. If he's the one leading the party, then he's probably got a trick or two up his sleeve. There's also the issue of his new item. It might be something that will expose us, or weaken us somehow.

Either way, we can probably win if we play our cards right.
>>
>>608782
>>608782
>Other
Personally I have no problem with him joining, but if he feels like explaining his reasons in private for his delay it wouldn't hurt to hear them.

Or something like that. Basically just try to get in on the conversation with the Prince if it takes place.
>>
>>608842
what worries me is if tavis decides to jup in there's nothing stopping him from doing so in both instances.

If tavis and the church plan to take us out when we are exhausted after the fight with adel, things might get complicated.

>>608851
>I just think that ramming ourselves down onto the trap so hard that it breaks is a valid method of breaking their plans.
we can't be certain that we will break through however. we should not underedsimate our enemies since they are actually not that weak as >>608853 says. speaking of.

>>608853
>we can probably win
hope for the best and prepare for the worst. let's not get our guard down. at least be weary.
>>
>>608895
supporting this as well.
>>
>>608851
Shock Touch, and Energy Channel could be considered buffs. She has barriers she can throw up as well as one or two other tricks. She's not a buff machine, though.

>>608853
Tavis was the one who launched the ult- you didn't see Adel during the fight. Also the Nebula Buster wasn't full strength. I thought I mentioned/wrote that...apologies if I didn't.
>>
>>608911
>She's not a buff machine, though.
Something to remedy in our downtime.
>>
>>608911
>Also the Nebula Buster wasn't full strength. I thought I mentioned/wrote that...apologies if I didn't.
you did. it was mentioned that miranda had to scale down the power to make sure that the shot didn't penetrate and kill the party as well.
>>
Alrighty, sounds like it's 'Whatever, but I want to hear his 'reasons' if possible.' ?

Writing, then.
>>
Thinking about it, it seems the church has a couple plans in motion.
>Whatever they gave Tavis
>Fighters guild hires
>Crystal given to Adel

Whatever they gave Tavis is probably to brand us as a Demon, and the fighters guild might be backup if Adel doesn't kill us.

I wonder if we could propose a 1 item only limit on the fight if Tavis joins. So he has to pick between trying to keep up with Adel and us or using whatever he was given? No reason we can't take advantage of the rules too. (Also Adel might have to abandon the crystal he got. Sell it as a "high-risk" match or something)
>>
>>608995
good idea.
supporting the 1 item limit this anon said.
>>
>>608995
We don't actually have to win do we? Could just throw the match against Adel to preserve mana/observe and hopefully throw a wrench in their plans
>>
>>609016
what? did you mean we should make Adel fight Tavis, or we should lose to Adel?
>>
>>608782
“I suppose if he wants to join that badly, then it would be remiss to not let him,” you say as you choose your words carefully. “I'm curious about his reasons however. I understand that he said that he wanted only you to hear about them, but it still seems only proper if we understood as well.”

The Prince nods. “I suppose that's fair enough.” He stands up, addressing the usher. “Tell him that I'll be out there shortly.” with that, he walks out the room with his most authoritative strut.

It's a solid few minutes until he returns. Both you and Adel continue to watch the fights, but you have to admit neither of you are really as interested as before, considering recent events. When he gets back he has a very serious expression on his face and he looks towards you and Adel alike with concern. “I'm afraid that I can't really tell you what he informed me of, due to the nature of the situation.” Well, that was reassuring. “However, I will state that it involves...security issues." You notice his eyes linger on you for a second or two longer than normal. "Still, I've simply said that I'll look into it, but yes, I'll insert him into the tournament before the semifinals. As for you two, I insist that you both continue to enjoy the tournament as you have been. There's nothing to be done for it quite at the moment, but Tavis insists that he can solve the issue.”

Great. Just another thing to keep your eye on.

Soon, however, the next fight starts. Seems Mr. Fancy Pants, aka the Baron Voldin, is up against the brunette girl with the sword and shield. She seems energetic enough, and very capable, judging by the test swings that she gives once she gets into the middle of the field. Voldin, for his part, simply stands there, one hand on his rapier, looking bored. You weren't so sure about that, considering that buckler would make something like his sword slide right off…

Adel is simply growling like he'd rather this man just not exist. Which he probably doesn't. Doesn't seem in the mood to actually say anything, however; his grip just tightens on the chair he's sitting in.

Then, with a flag from the referee the fight begins. The young girl charges with a battle cry, shield raised and sword ready.

Then the Baron starts glowing again with that strange aura. He then lunges forward once, his sword shining with an eerie glow. It connects the tip of her shield-

-and a powerful lance of light bursts out of the sword, through the shield, and through HER. The length nearly hits the wall before he dissipates it, and she collapses mid-run, eyes wide and glossy, with hardly a word, bleeding profusely. The entire exchange took, at your estimate, about four seconds.

There's stunned silence throughout the arena. No one's cheering this time, though. The medics quickly rush out onto the field, tools in hand. Baron is already walking away, showing nothing but a smug smile.

> “...What was that?”
> Say nothing.
> “I can see why you don’t like him.”
> Other.
>>
>>609019
Both, Tavis is entering the tournament where the prize is to fight the winner of the duel
>>
>>608995
I feel like the goons from the fighters' guild are for Sorina and Basil, or more likely for "E. Saldin
Loud disparaging of the Noble One", that one target they had in Tenimbaun
>>
>>609020
>> “I can see why you don’t like him.”
>> Other.
"That sword is going to look good rammed in his guts."
>>
>>609020
> “I can see why you don’t like him.”
>>
>>609020
>Other.
"No finesse, just aiming for center mass. No control over energy output, either. An embarrassment to the profession. I can see why you don't like him."
>>
>>609020
>> “I can see why you don’t like him.”
>>
>>609020
>"I can see why you don't like him"
>>
>>609024
>>609027
>>609032
>>609036
Maybe we should be clear on WHY we don't like Voldin.
Is it because, as a professional, we have standards, and one of them is to be polite and not smug?
>>
>>609038
Well, for one, he's bringing decidedly lethal force into an arena where that is frowned upon. Another thing is that he's probably relying on his expensive gear's power, rather than his own skill. Also yes, he has an attitude that gives him a very punchable demeanor.
>>
>>609020
>“I can see why you don’t like him.”
>>
>>609044
>Another thing is that he's probably relying on his expensive gear's power, rather than his own skill.
I think that's his own magical power, since the aura came from him rather than the sword.

Though it could be a combination of both, that his sword is just a very good amplifier/focus, and he's supplying the mana himself, and both are needed for that attack he pulled off.

>lethal force
True. While the Prince did say that lethal force is legal, it is frowned upon. Voldin will probably say that it was only mostly-lethal, because he knew that the on-site medics and clerics would heal her up afterwards.
Still, not good sportsmanship; sportsmanship is stupid in real combat, but this is a tournament and so the standards are different.
>>
>>609038
I think it's clear how we wouldn't like him. Use of specific tropes mage him easy to target.
As this is not a Write-in option, precisions are optional but welcome.
>>
>>609044
She may not be dead but otherwise anon has it here
>>
>>609020
>Other
Enable the hearing spell and listen in on the medics. Be prepared to go down there to lay on hands if it sounds like they can't handle it.
>>
Heh.

Writing.
>>
>>609038
He seems to be the type of guy who'll rely on his gear rather then work on skill. And since he's rich, he can afford a lot of gear.
>>
>>609051
>While the Prince did say that lethal force is legal,
Wait, I checked, the Prince said that killing or irrevocably maiming is illegal.
Still, as I said, Voldin will probably get by on a technicality.
>>
>>609059
Oh, that's actually a good idea.
Takes the wind out of the Church's "she's a demon!" sails if we go around healing people.
>>
>>609064
Yeah, but better to expect that he's got some power of his own and smash his face in the mud, than to be caught unawares when he's been disarmed and we think he's helpless, right?
>>
>>609072
I was thinking of a three step combo where after we lure him to strike us, we side step his lunge, grab his sword arm and break his hand, then reverse the sword and jam it into his gut. If he's still up, then a swift kick in the face should be just desserts.
>>
>>609069
Let's show' em how baffling our powers are.

>>609081
During the Tournament.. We'd be no better.
Afterwhile, we can go wild.
>>
>>609081
Rather than jamming the sword in his gut, I'd rather break the blade using just the thumb, index, and middle finger.

One, because we're supposing to be staying away from permanent damage/lethal force, and two, to break his expensive stuff, which is just as satisfying and well within the rules.
>>
>>609081
>>609085
My ideal strategy for fighting this guy would be a constant barrage of weak magic bolts. There's something appealing about whittling down the guy's defenses and slowly inflicting dodgeball hell on him. Plus, I doubt he's geared to counter that kind of move.
>>
>>609093
How about after we hit him with those bolts, we let him come close to get us, then we just break his sword and break his nose with our fist?
>>
>>609083
This would be a perfect opportunity to defuse the Church's plan! Heal the girl in front of the crowd (put on an absolute shield if feeling threatened) and show them a lost art!

I'd say healing her would take less than 8 minutes. Miranda is more used to that power and the girl's wound is less immediately critical than Sorina's.
>>
>>609069
Yeah that's what I was thinking. Looks like I was too late though. I tried posting earlier but the IP I received was banned.
>>
>>609101
And for such a show, the cost in mana would be minimal. A great way to shake'em.
>>
...I'm smelling a Paragon interrupt request? It wouldn't cause much rejiggering from what I intended to write regardless.
>>
>>609107
Paragon interrupt!

It's not much mana expended, and it might help in further convincing Sorina and Basil (though it likely won't help with Adel and Tavis, and it will show them more of our abilities I would rather not).

Also, since this is still a contract that could take another week or so, cultivating local assets, such as this girl, is something that could pay dividends down the road.
>>
>>609107
I'll throw my lot in with the Paragon interupt.
>>
>>609107
Sure. Fuck that guy.
>>
>>609112
Well, it might help with Adel, at least.
>>
>>609107
A magical intermezzo.
>>
>>609020
>“I can see why you don’t like him.”
motherfucker.
>>
>>609107
Yay for paragon!
>>
Will Miranda get to go all Bones on the clerics?

https://youtu.be/02Or-Hx3yqc?t=24s

"I'm dealing with medievalism here."
>>
>>609107
Paragon interrupt ftw
>>
>>609020
Ugh. “Well. That was utterly tasteless. Not to mention completely amateur,” you comment. “I have to admit, I can see why you don’t like him.”

Adel slams his hand on the armrest. “That utter dillweed! I swear I'm going to relish pounding his face into the dirt if he makes it all the way through. Heck, maybe even if he doesn't! PROBABLY even if he doesn't!” it's kind of impressive how utterly livid he is. Although you can't really say you disagree with him. You're sure he pretty much just broke the rules. Although he might be able to argue something about the medics, as you look down at the scene, faintly hearing chants and occasional glows.

It seems like healing people takes a lot of energy out of them them; there’s four of them. After one does his thing, he retreats a little bit to catch his breath and take a swig of some potion from his belt. They go through this cycle at least twice, and are still down there.

You can't really see the girl at the moment due to both the officials and the medics crowding the scene.

Adel looks worried. “Ah geez...this ain't good. Medics are just burning through those potions. Wish healing magic wasn't so hard to pull off, it really-

You're already jumping out of the room. Fortunately, the actual room was more a Roman style open-air balcony than anything else, allowing you to easily leap out and onto the grounds. There's a sudden gasp that echoes through the arena as you drop easily onto the ground from a distance that probably would have severely injured anyone else without a spell protecting them.

As you start walking quickly towards the injured girl, some of the officials start warning you away. To be quite honest, you pay attention to none of it, and one or two are tugging on you fruitlessly by the time you make it to the girl.

“Move.” They glance back at you, hesitant… “You're not going to put this girl out of her misery or anything-”

“Of course not, you idiot,” you quickly interrupt. “But if you’re taking that long to do it, you’re not resonating with her frequency quite right. Her body is resisting the mana flow. You’re helping as much as you’re hurting.” As you take a look at her, you're not quite sure how bad it was initially, but you do know that it was at least a thorough pierce. The hole is incredibly bloody, still, though smaller than you first recall it looking, at least, and the girl is breathing lightly and rapidly, eyes glassy and unsure. “Now BE QUIET.” Your hands start to glow as you close your eyes and focus yet again. The surrounding officials and clerics gasp as they realize what you're doing. “I said quiet.”

cont.
>>
>>609163
They are.

The next many minutes are actually rather breathless as you focus your mana and reach equilibrium...and then you hit hers, and begin to tend to her wounds. Not a soul in the arena is saying a word- although you might just be tuning everything out to concentrate. If nothing else, this is good practice should you keep doing this, you suppose.

You're not really sure how long has passed you started, but by the time you squint to check her condition for what you estimate was the eighth time, you can see that the hole is closed up entirely. There's still some exposed muscle underneath, but it's all back together mostly. You can see some of the clerics eying you with what’s either jealousy, or suspicion, but no time for that.

A few more minutes and her skin is healing as well...and done. Geez, that took a while. You're actually sweating a bit, and quickly wipe it off your forehead as you stand up.

The girl, you realize, is looking at you with utter awe, and the clerics and officials are standing slackjawed. As is most of the crowd.

> Say nothing, go back to your seat.
> “...What?”
> “Are you okay?”
> Other
>>
>>609166
>Other
"Amateurs. 3rd-class Medtechs could do better."
>>
>>609166
>> Other
"Alright everyone. Let's get this show back on the road."
>>
>>609166
> Say nothing, go back to your seat.
>>
>>609166
> Say nothing, go back to your seat.
>>
>>609166
> “Are you okay?”
> "Good. Next time, don't take the bait. Let him come to you, and counter when he attacks."
>>
>>609166
> Say nothing, go back to your seat.
> Wink.
>>
>>609166
>“Are you okay?”

Muh good guy
>>
>>609166
I'm slightly surprised it took more energy than Sorina's gouge and bloodloss.
Are we talking about magic with DoT on Voldin's part, or utter incompetence from the medics?
>>
>>609166
>Other
>"Do you delight in causing unnecessary suffering, or can't you even make a rough judgement as to what level of power is appropriate for a given situation?" (said to Voldin)

Make a point of being "the good guy" here, we can probably get the crowd on our side.
>>
>>609175
>Muh good guy
No, pragmatic.

Also dislikes seeing incompetence displayed by supposed professionals.
>>
>>609166
>> “Are you okay?”
>>
>>609180
>said to Voldin
I think he's already gone.
>>
>>609180
Also, we should probably ask Adel if Voldin is fighters guild. If he is, I think the plan with them was to burn through the medic's healing before the big fight, so we stayed down for good as a "demon".
>>
>>609183
>The medics quickly rush out onto the field, tools in hand. Baron is already walking away, showing nothing but a smug smile.
Gone to gloat.
>>
>>609166
>> “Are you okay?”
>>
>>609166
>> “Are you okay?”
After saying that, just head back to our seat.
>>
Are you okay?


BUSTAH WULF!

The funny thing is that she could probably imitate it if she ever actually SAW it.

Writing.
>>
>>609177
Also considering we are well-rested, more than during Sorina's healing.
C'mon man, we harmonized with her mana pulse, I have to know!
>>
>>609199
The hole was bigger, and it was a clear throughway. More to heal- at least, in my head.

Sorina's wasn't as big. I might've just used the word 'gouge' wrong, though.
>>
>>609201
It's probably that.
>>
>>609166
>Other
grumble about professionals not doing their jobs well/lack of restraint from voldin

>>609167
heh, I like it.

>>609201
so he just punched a giant hole in her body?
>>
We should have told Adel that he had a chance to go beat the shit out of Voldin while we were distracting everyone with healing. Two birds with one stone then.

Part of me also really hopes that whatever they gave Tavis is just going to fail hilariously because we're not native to any planes these guys know about.

>"This amulet will reveal the true face of the demon in our midst when pressed onto it's person." (actually turns somebody INTO a demon)
>Tavis uses the amulet
>[#ERROR incompatible action, returning to default state.]
>Miranda is reset to her intersection gear.
>>
>>609216
In my head, it was a little under the size of a baseball in the mid/upper torso area. But I'm not super medically inclined. This is fantasy and I've been watching Jojo, my standards for 'gruesome yet survivable injuries might be a bit skewed.
>>
>>609166
>You're actually sweating a bit, and quickly wipe it off your forehead as you stand up
You know, Miranda needs to work at this more so that it's not as difficult.

Part of her reputation hinges on being able to do everything and anything nearly effortlessly that the locals have to strive and really work hard at to barely achieve.

Showing signs of strain or effort is unbecoming of that reputation.
>>
>>609166
You look towards the important party- the formerly injured girl. “Are you okay?” she nods, still dumbstruck. “Good.” You turn to the medics, and open your mouth to say something. But, thinking better of it, you don't, simply walking back to under the Royal Seating, and putting a bit of extra spring in it, hop back up to your seat. Thinking about it, you glance over to where the baron should have been sitting. You were wondering if he'd raise a stink about it or not.

He's not there, though. Ugh. Amateur in every respect. Suddenly there's clapping. Lots of clapping- oh. The girl is waving to you. She also bows in respect. You'd...really not rather that, but eh. Adel at least has a big smile on his face. “Well, looky there! Underneath the scary armor is a heart of gold!”

It's not. It's really, really not. Not going to tell him that though. “I'm not a fan of professional incompetence.” is all you say.

As she walks off out of the arena, you see Tavis suddenly hurriedly chasing her. Uuuuugh, what now…

Adel notices as well. “Whoa. Where's he off to in such a hurry?” He then looks around. “And man, where is Basil and Sorina? I'm getting worried…” Ugh, great. Now he's worried.

The quarterfinals pass by quicker that the first round. The staff user from the first match is paired up against the thief from earlier- this match is much more in the staff user’s favor, and after some game effort, walks away with the win.

The Baron also comes back in time for his next match, and you swear you hear some slight booing as he waltzes in. The soldier that he fights however quickly concedes after that glow again. It's kind of annoying how hard he's relying on it. You noticed that he doesn't even move before he cues it up.

Essentially, the field is pared down and the quarterfinals are nearly done with. Tavis hasn't come back yet, however. You're wondering what's keeping him. The prince notices as well. “If he's not here by the time the quarterfinals and, then he loses his position.” He warns.

cont.
>>
>>609259
Much to your surprise, the quarterfinals wrap up, with no sign of him. It's down to the staff user, the Baron, the veteran soldier, and one guy with a mace and helmet. Kinda reminded you of a barbarian; not like those marauder punks, mind.

The Baron is facing off against the mace giant now...all things considered, it should be a fairly short match. The Barbarian roars, slamming his giant mace into the ground in an attempt at intimidation. The baron just looks at him like he's a particularly ugly dog barking. Stage is set, the match begins, and the Barbarian actually is smart enough to keep his distance. The baron does nothing initially, but when it's clear the Barbarian isn't closing in, he simply yawns, taunting him.

It works. The Barbarian charges, although you notice that it's not in a straight line- he's curving a little bit; likely to avoid the same fate that befell the girl. The Baron quickly realizes this and dodges a strong swing just by a hair. This actually continues for a bit, the Baron forced to actually move and attack normally. To be entirely fair, he does seem to have some measure of skill. However, it's painfully obvious that it's that trick of his that pulls most of the weight. And after several minutes of dodging, the Baron has had enough. Quickly raising his hands once he has enough space, he declares quite loudly:

“I CONCEDE.” it's strange, his face is completely calm and plain, despite you being certain that a man like that had a terribly big ego. You didn't think you would just up and quit.

Neither did most of the audience, apparently. Adel, for his part, is livid. “YOU MEAN TO TELL ME AS SOON AS HE HAS TO GIVE A LITTLE BIT OF EFFORT HE QUITS?! WHAT IN THE BLACK PLANES IS UP WITH THAT?!” Yikes. Adel seems like he just gets madder and madder every time the baron is brought up. Still, the Barbarian ceases, and the Baron walks away with a smile on his face, like he just won. Weird.

Last semifinals. The staff user and the soldier. It's actually a very riveting affair, and both contestants seem to show the utmost respect for each other. The blows are both serious and calculated, and they seem to trade back and forth near endlessly. Eventually however, the staff user manages to slip inside the soldier's guard and get him in the chest with a quick three hit combination that leaves the military man winded and open for a final strike that plants him on his back.

Raucous cheers go up as the final two, the staff user and the Barbarian, both bow to the audience after the last match. The announcements are made and there is a brief intersession to allow for audience relief...and to buy more food. As for you…

>Go talk to Geegee.
>Try to find Tavis.
>Where the hell is Sorina and Basil?
>Talk to the Prince.
>Other.


(Last one for tonight. Need sleep. I felt people were getting bored with the fights so I fast-forwarded a bit.)
>>
...that and I was getting tired of writing them holy shit I am never doing a tournament arc again unless it's the main crux of a story. Lesson learned.
>>
>Other
>Talk to Adel about Sorina and Basil, if he plans to go looking for them offer to go along with him. (or if he plans to find Travis).

Thanks for running. The fights were useful to give us a chance to intercede in the plans at work.

I feel tournaments probably work best when it's "Fight > Short non-combat arc/character building/fight prep > Fight", and if it's either completely unimportant (go do something else while the tournament is going on) or participation is important (We're fighting, and need to manage resources/have some goal where the fights are a means to accessing the "locker-rooms" for as long as possible.)
>>
>>609265
>>Talk to Adel about Sorina and Basil, if he plans to go looking for them offer to go along with him.
I'll go with this.
>>
that baron is one hell of a master baiter. and the worst part is that he relishes in it.

>>609260
>Where the hell is Sorina and Basil?
getting a bit worried here... oh and supporting >>609265, ask Adel about it first.

>>609264
good night.
>>
>>609260
>Go talk to Geegee
I want to know if she's got any dirt on the baron, if she can go look for Sorina and Basil in our place, since she'll stick out less than us.

Also, we need to make sure that, as painful as it may be, we have all of our extra-sensory perception spells on. I wouldn't put it past the Church to have the Baron try to one-shot us from a hidden location with that trick of his.
>>
>>609268
>since she'll stick out less than us.
I don't think she would stick out Less. I mean, she won't be like us, but she just outright stated that she would be practically the only goblin in the city.
>>
>>609268
I can only imagine the reaction of the church if Adel and Miranda start walking around town looking for Sorina and Basil if they've kidnapped them or something. (it's like a game of "can we cause the high-priest to shit his pants in fear?")
>>
>>609260
>Where the hell is Sorina and Basil?
>>609265
Might as well do this too.

> Other
Before we go, can we check in with Geegee about our potions?
>>
>>609265
We didn't grow old by being careless, let's act on the suspicion that the gem can eavesdrop.

Tell him we know but we'll only tell him it he leaves the gem out of earshot, or maybe we have pen and paper so we can write?
>>
>>609260
>Talk to the prince
>'Oh, didja know that one of the Church's spies just dropped something small into Tavis' lap? Also, did you know that Tavis is an Adept in the Church, and has yesterday talked to the High Priest? Did you know that the High Priest yesterday stated his intention to frame me as a demon, with faked up testimony and all? Just saying.
'Oh, and before you do anything hasty, there's going to be a hullaballoo. See, a bunch of the Church's prisoners have been freed, and they've had really interesting experiences. Just saying.'
>>
>>609357
wait what? are you serious?
>>
>>609333
Hopefully, talking to him about Sorina and basil won't tip of the gem if he brings it up and we can just ask him about them since he mentioned it. Us "hanging out" with the guy while he looks for his friends shouldn't be too suspicious, as long as we don't go "hey you wanna look for 'em, let's look for them, I wanna look for them too!" and he brings it up.
>>
>>609359
Yep. See, Tavis just told the Prince that we're a demon, and that Tavis will just have to fight us to prove it. My vote will disrupt that plan before it gets anywhere.
>>
>>609260
>>Where the hell is Sorina and Basil?
>>
>>609380
Gem being a magic wiretap is probably paranoia but the worry is that if it IS, telling him that we know where they went will tip off the church. They may not have a clue what they're up to, if we aren't careful we will put them in danger.
>>
>>609357
Good god no.
>>
>>609260
>Where the hell is Sorina and Basil?

>>609265
>Talk to Adel about Sorina and Basil, if he plans to go looking for them offer to go along with him.
Supporting this.

>>609357
Let's not do this, please.
>>
>>609359
>>609547
>>609613
Why not? You want to let the Church's plan to 'out' us go without a snag? What's the problem with throwing a wrench in it by telling the Prince ahead of time what's going to happen?
>>
>>609844
Oh, so you want to admit that we're working against the security of the nation since during this time of war the Church is keeping the populace in check so that all efforts can be focused on defeating Horinth, and not instigating a bloody Schism/civil war.
>>
Imagine two situations:

A) An honest young man tells you that the woman who saved the city is a demon, and that he can prove it by fighting her in the ring. This is obviously troubling, so you allow it. If he can prove it, she must be a demon.

B) Same as before, but before allowing it, the woman tells you that the Church has it in for her because of the doubt instilled by her presence. That there's a conspiracy against her. That the young man had something passed to him by a spy. And that there's something that will discredit the Church coming out soon.

I prefer B to A, since the Prince is less likely to believe us to be a demon, and may back us up. Or perhaps, after a moment of thought, he will tell us what Tavis has planned for us.

For example:
If demons smoke when touched by holy water, and Tavis told the Prince that he'd throw holy water at us, and we tell the Prince that Tavis will be faking it, then the Prince may well tell us. 'Tavis may be throwing a smoking agent at you as opposed to holy water. Make sure none of it touches you, and if it smokes anyway, I will know that it's fake.'
>>
>>609884
Because the Prince is going to be thrilled that the Church is mindwashing mages to be loyal to the Church rather than be loyal to the realm?

Anyway, that's not what I said. All we need to tell the Prince is that the Church has it in for us and is likely to fake 'evidence' against us and that Tavis is with them so he will be on his guard. Anything else is strictly optional.
>>
>>609844
Who are you more likely to believe, someone who has been working under you (as far as you know) to help your citizens spiritual needs, keeping them calm and satisfied (albeit probably through brainwashing), and has supported your campaign against your ideological enemies (who were likely goaded into this war by them), or some unknown powerful mercenary who you only met a few days ago, you have no idea what their motives are or who she works for, and is likely trying to destabilize the peace in your city?
>>
>>609260
>>Where the hell is Sorina and Basil?
Also this, >>609265
>>
>>609951
At the moment, it's not a he said she said sort of thing. It's a 'You're going to be tested. Try not to fail.' sort of thing. Just telling him that there may be ulterior motives. Besides, he's a politician. He should be aware that the Church is shady.

As for his stance for or against brainwashing, well, it's going to get out, and he's not going to want to be seen by the public as for it. While he may, and I doubt it, be in favor of mind control, nobody's going to be happy with him if he's implied to be in the Church's camp.

'Course, this is all assuming we don't want to be implied to be a demon and hunted by the populace. From a certain point of view, that's exactly what we need in order to recruit Basil and Sorina.
>>
>>610003
If its going to get out, it has to be from a reputable source, not a mercenary.

"Hes a politician so knows the church is evil" is just fucking nonsense tho.
>>
You look over to your right at the troubled man sitting in his seat. He's drumming his fingers worriedly, and looking out at the crowd, visibly tense. You have half a mind to comment on it, but he quickly stands up and begins walking out of the box. “That's it…” you hear him mumble.

“Concerned?” you ask.

He nods. “Yeah, I'm just going to go take a quick jog around the outside and look for them. They might have gotten caught up in something else, knowing them.” He tries to put on a brave smile, but you can clearly see the worry behind it. You affect a sigh, and make a show of rising from the seat.

“Give me a few minutes, and I'll join you.” Frankly, it might soothe a couple of your worries as well. Adel just grins, nods, and heads out. In the meantime, you needed to see Geegee. Fortunately, she's surprisingly very easy to find, even in the massive crowd that has become the arena audience. She's holding what appears to be a bone that may at one point have had something resembling meat on it. Judging by the direction she's walking, she's going to get another.

“Eeeyy. Look at you, stealin’ the show by savin’ lives. I know you mentioned healing that other girl earlier, but seeing it myself is somethin’ else. And for as LONG as you did!” She claps her hands to her face in astonishment. “If I didn't already know YOU were crazy impossible, I’d call THAT crazy impossible. No way no how anyone should be able to consistently heal anything for as long as you did. You should be dead like, three times over due ta mana depletion!”

“I just think they're incompetent, but that's not why I'm here,” you redirect as you both walk. Soon, you reach an alcove which allows you a little privacy. Not really much, though. “Two things. One, is there anything interesting about that Baron that I should know that you know?”

Geegee shrugs. “Honestly, nothin’ you probably don't already know. He's kinda a fink, but he gets away with a bunch of stuff because his pops is a court official for the King. He's got a stupid high mana reserve, ‘cause he's lucky like that, too. Never worked a day in his life though; just rides around, buys stuff, and practices that sword to look good for the ladies. Fun fact: the creepo even hit on me once. I'm a married goblin, thank you!” She says with indignity.

cont.
>>
>>609920
Why would he buy a word of that? Im sitting here knowing full well thats its true, yet it still sounds like bullshit even to me.
>>
>>610028
“Anything related to the Church?” you press. She blinks once, and then slaps her head.

“Oh, doy. Yeah, that IS a thing with you. No, yeah he's got ties. Apparently he's been friends with a bunch of the higher-ups in the church for a while. As far as I know though, he's not directly affiliated with them. Doesn't even lobby for ‘em or anything, just pals around with them from what I know. Then again, not exactly the most dialed in, in these parts." she shrugs. "That might've changed.”

Very interesting. “As for the second question. How's the progress on those invisibility potions?”

Geegee freezes. Then lets out a strange gurgling growling sound that you're not sure is something she's doing naturally, or something she's developed. “I knew I forgot to do something this morning!” She's already beating feet out of the Arena. “They're done, but I gotta pick ‘em up from the shop I went to ‘cause I borrowed their lab yesterday and they needed to settle! Oooooh, if I miss the finals ‘cause of this I'm gonna give you such a piiiiiiiinch!” she yells at you as she skids round the corner, and she's gone.

...Well then.

Putting that out of your head for now, you go to rejoin Adel, who, after a bit of searching, you find has been talking with one of the officials. “So yeah, you or your guys see anyone with either description, you let me know, right?”

“Of course. We’ll make certain to put the word out,” the man agrees, and walks off.

Adel turns around as he sees you approach. “Hey! So, told the officials what was goin’ on. They agreed to hold up starting the finals for a bit longer than the normal intermission time, since this is important to me. So!” He claps you on the shoulder- then immediately unclaps it when you give him a look. “I was thinkin’ a bit more, and I figure that we split up, each focus on an end of the arena; just so we’re more thorough. There’s the east end- basically the back stage end with all the tools and equipment for fights and ceremonies and stuff, and the west end, where we are now with all the people and stands and competitor seating and all that. I’d love to check the whole city, but I dunno if we got time for that…” he sighs, then shakes his head. “Although I will if I need to,” he says resolutely. “So. Any preference?”

>East End.
>West End.
>Other.
>>
Werent they heading to the mages college, not the arena? The fuck makes him so sure they are in the colliseum?
>>
That said, if hes got a reason, maybe try
>the east end
>>
>>610061
He's guessing and hoping for the best.
>>
>>610042
>>West End.
>>
>>610072
Ah, well then.

"I think i remember hearing someone mention seeing a couple of longshots heading to the mages college on my way here. Maybe it was them? One of your friends was a mage, right?"

Take the hint, kid.
>>
>>610042
>Other: Lie, say the East End, actually go to check the College.
Make sure all of our sense-boosting spells are up, because the baron is going to try to one-shot us.
>>
>>610099
Should we? If he runs off the whole thing's gonna blow.

>East End.
Doesn't really matter, let's just go look for where the church people have set up and see if we can't figure out what they're up to. Also Tavis... god knows what he's been doing to the poor girl. Gave her a quick brainwipe to wash off our foul demon taint?
>>
>>610099
supporting this
>>
>>610042
>The East end
The most likely place for preparation of dastardly deeds

>>610111
It's likely they've already moved out of there. May be grouping up the freed captives from yesterday.

Or they're stuck in complications.

Could the old lady battle mage help? She seemed fond of the Longshots, but I don't know if she's churchfolk.
>>
>>610099
Send him off towards the college, tell him to be careful of disguised "cultists".

>>610119
Yeah, let's try to find that girl.
>>
"You go thataway. I'll go some other way."

Writing.
>>
my only real worry is that we last saw Tavis heading after the chick we just healed and that she's about to get shanked for 'demonic corruption' by our resident good boy, Tavis. or has gotten shanks during the last match and it's something very important to find.
>>
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>>610019
Why are you being obtuse? Do you think the
church has perfectly covered up all the rumors that people in the Knights of the Moon told us, to the point that the Prince has never even heard a rumor? They've been disappearing people in the night, for chrissakes.
>>
>>610042

Hm. He’s likely just going to be walking all over the Coliseum without finding anything, presuming Basil and Sorina have gotten into trouble at the Mages’ College. But, maybe… “Actually, thinking about it…”

“Hm?” He cocks an eyebrow.

“I heard someone say earlier on my way here that two of the heroes from the other day seemed to be checking out the Mages’ College. Maybe they’re still there for whatever reason?” Hopefully he takes the hint. You’d rather not have to get more elaborate unless you absolutely had to. Fortunately, by the way his face lights up, it seems like he does.

“Oh! Dude, you mean she actually went for it!? Ha! Yeah, that’d explain it, if she did…” He thinks to himself, then nods. “Alright! Hopefully it shouldn’t take too long to pop in and say hi! C’mon!”

You wave him off. “I’ll look around here, just in case. If they ask, I’ll let them know where you went.”

“Sounds like a plan!” And with that he races off. Hopefully, he’ll be able to get there quickly enough. There IS a tournament on hold…

It takes a while to work around the entire East End, and most of what you see is about what you expect: a lot of back lot. There's a lot of spare lumber, and some other tools that you saw being used earlier. The lot itself appears to be empty of people, however. Thinking about it, you quickly activate your hearing and power senses. You never-

‘Just breathe calmly. Don't panic. We’ll be done soon. She'll be out of your system, and you'll be fine again.’

-know. You take a quick detour around a large pile of wooden planks. To only your mild surprise, Tavis is there- and so is the girl you saved earlier. He's got his sword out, the thing pulsing with mana. And you notice that something else is glowing as well- another crystal. This one is red, and it's pulsing in time with the sword. He's holding it up to her, as well as channeling mana through his sword, the flat of the blade being placed on the top of her head. She's got a half-lidded expression on her face, but you can't see Tavis- his back is to you.

> Wait a bit longer, see if he says anything else.
> Stop it by force.
> Call out to him. (Say what?)
> Other.
>>
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>>610029
Because it's patently obvious that we're strong, and they tell people that strength comes from religion. Our existence is anathema to the church.
>>
>>610042
>>East End.
>>
>>610309
Stop it by force.

We can ask the girl what he told her, if necessary. Plus, hey, if we take him out now, we won't have to fight him later.
>>
>>610309
Gettin' kinda date rapey there church boy.
> Stop it by force.
>>
>>610309
>> Stop it by force.
>>
>>610309
>> Stop it by force.
>>
>>610309
> Stop it by force.
Sneak up behind him, grab his shoulder in a vice-like grip, and say, "What a gentleman you are, boy."
>>
>>610309
>> Stop it by force.
>>"You should ask Sorina why doing that is a bad thing."
>>
>>610309
>Stop it by force.
>"Don't you know that mind-control magic is illegal?"
>>
Yeah, there's a Catholic joke in here somewhere but I'm not gonna.

Writing!
>>
>>610309
> Stop it by force.
Fucks sake this guy

Are we officially tired of playing low key with him?
>>
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>>610384
>Yeah, there's a Catholic joke in here somewhere but I'm not gonna.
Very mature of you.
>>
>>610386
We can't kill him yet because Sorina and Basil haven't given up on Tavis yet.

But I think we can be allowed to rough him up a bit, for using a mind-control crystal on someone.
>>
>>610302
Im just not daft enough to think basic conspiracy theory rumour is something the prince of a theocratic nation lends credence to, especially when its simple slander.
>>
>>610302
Since the Church disappearing people is so well known, that people know about it enough that they watch what they say and who they talk to, you think that the Prince doesn't know about it?
You think the Prince doesn't view it as useful since it's keeping the country in line? That he would give a shit about what a foreign mercenary says against the institution helping to keep his family on the throne and preventing unrest at a war that's been going on for years with no end in sight?
>>
>>610309
Okay, yeah, no. You quickly move to walk up and take the crystal, and quite possibly the sword if you can. He seems rather focused on his current task, and doesn't seem to register your footsteps. At least not until it's too late.

As he finally turns around, you're about a step and a half away from him, and he can't move fast enough to stop you from plucking the crystal out of his hands, and snapping it in two with a quick flex of your wrist. “You know what you're doing is illegal, right? Mind control magic is forbidden.”

The way he looks at you, gawks at you in sheer bewilderment is satisfying...but then he starts to growl, and you can see his sword start to move, and you can see his foot pivot to lunge-

-your fist connects with his face before he even gets entirely upright, send him sprawling several meters away. He manages to hold onto the sword however. You do a quick check up on the other girl- She's blinking slowly, and you think she might be slowly returning to awareness, judging by the sudden movement of her pupils as well.

Tavis, for his part, is still reeling from the blow, using his sword to prop himself up. You notice that it's still glowing blue somehow, the hooked tip shining brightly. Oddly enough, the rest of him isn't; just the sword. “You...agh… what are you!? You're not...you don't look Horinthian...and you've been doing everything you can to corrupt the beliefs of these people with your displays! Just what's your plan?” He manages to get to a fully upright position, and brandishes his sword in a combat stance. “Why are you doing this? Are you working for someone? Is that where you got your strength from- struck a deal with some archdemon from the Black Planes?”

Oy.

> Don’t even dignify that with a response, just mention that Adel is looking for him, take the girl, and leave.
> Brandish your own sword. Maybe you can just have some fun with him for a bit.
> “You probably wish I WAS a demon.”
> Other.
>>
>>610504
See>>610003
>As for his stance for or against brainwashing, well, it's going to get out, and he's not going to want to be seen by the public as for it. While he may, and I doubt it, be in favor of mind control, nobody's going to be happy with him if he's implied to be in the Church's camp.
>>
>>610527
>> “You probably wish I WAS a demon.”
>>
>>610527
>Don’t even dignify that with a response, just mention that Adel is looking for him, take the girl, and leave.

>>610529
The Prince could easily be working with and profiting from the Church's actions, and still denounce their brainwashing in public but then assist them to set up again in secret after having a few scapegoats take the fall.
>>
>>610527
>> “You probably wish I WAS a demon, Adel is looking for you." Take the girl and leave.
>>
> Don’t even dignify that with a response, just mention that Adel is looking for him, take the girl, and leave

Could shoulder the date rapist.
>>
Don't say anything iffy guys!
>>
>>610527
> Don’t even dignify that with a response, just mention that Adel is looking for him, take the girl, and leave.
This will wound his pride more than anything else.
>>
>>610527
>"Struck a... are you doing all of this out of petty jealousy?"

Take the girl with us and leave
>>
>>610527
> Don’t even dignify that with a response, just mention that Adel is looking for him, take the girl, and leave.
>>
It's funny how he claims we corrupt beliefs when we just caught him in the act of erasing and altering a person's mind. It's insane that he can accuse us with a straight face.

There isn't much belief to be had when the only way for the church to keep its flock is by force.
>>
>>610577
Brainwashing others to brainwash others! It's foolproof!
>>
>>610577
He has literally mo idea what the crystal he was using does. The church pribably gave it to him and told him how to use it and some bunk about how it "cleanses corruption and reaffirms faith in the noble one" or some similar garbage.

The problem is his igorance is doing real harm.
>>
>>610527
> Brandish your own sword. Maybe you can just have some fun with him for a bit.
>New sword, get!
>>
>>610538
>The Prince could easily be working with and profiting from the Church's actions, and still denounce their brainwashing in public but then assist them to set up again in secret after having a few scapegoats take the fall.
True. That's somebody else's problem, though.
>>
"Put that down before you hurt yourself."

Writing.
>>
>>610309
>red crystal
Better wreck Adel's too.
>>
Interesting sword he's got, too.
>>
>>610677
true
>>
>>610527
Whatever. He can think what he wants. You're focused on the girl, but as soon as you get her up in your arms, he quickly rushes forward. “Get your hands off!”

He's still too slow however. You jump well and clear out of the way long before he reaches you, ending up on top of a large wood pile. “Adel’s looking for you,” is all you figure to say to him. “You should get back to your seat so you stop worrying him.” With that, another leap and you're out of his sight. The major concern now, is what to do with this girl. She still seems to be recovering, but she manages to focus on you somewhat. “Ohhh...heeyyyy...you again...ah ha ha…” She sounds far away, and far too relaxed for her situation, although you suspect that's the crystal’s doing. “Careful, now. Don’t panic.”

“Okaaayyyy…”

You get some distance away from the arena, finding a small sit-down area nearby with some trees and a bench. As you sit her down, you notice that no one’s around, likely because most everyone is at the arena. She kinda looks at you with a goofy and serene smile. “Youuuu...helped meee...yeah. Thaaat’s niiiiice...you helping feels niiiice…I want to be niiiice... I think everything’s niiice...niiiice and comfy…” She hugs herself, like she’s just loving everyone.

Hm. You don’t think she’s completely brainwashed, but he was clearly some ways into it…although she's not as quiet as the last person you rescued. Hm.

>Test this out. Tell her to do something or ask her something.
>Bring her to the Prince.
>Call for an official to help.
>Stay with her quietly until she recovers.
>Other
>>
>>610829
>Slap her.
>>
>>610829
>Test this out. Tell her to do something or ask her something.
We need an Analyze Magic spell. If we could analyze the mana flow of this effect, we might be able to come up with a counter to it.
>>
>>610829
>Other: Slap her
If it doesn't work, stay with her quietly until she recovers.
>>
>>610851
We need it, we don't have it.
Now's not the time to try to discover it by ourselves.
>>
>>610837
>>610852
Do you seriously believe slapping her will work, or are you doing it just for some cheap laughs?
>>
>>610829
I'm stumped. I can't help but feel like Sorina is our best bet to deal with this, but we don't know exactly where she is. If we're confident in our stance on persuasiveness this could be our last piece of evidence to take to the prince, "here's mind controlled person, and a list of prisoner's and paperwork the church had regarding that."

Not sure what to vote for though, it all seems risky (as does "babysit the mid-brainwashing person" in case somebody spots us with her, and figures out a way to pin it on us).
>>
>>610829
>>Bring her to the Prince.
>>
>>610829
>"Stay with me, alright? Listen, I want you to think about Baron Voldin. Remember him? How does thinking about him make you feel? Keep thinking about him, and focus on that feeling."
Unfortunately, she has to leave behind the comfy.
>>
Actually, wouldn't it be better to ask her what Tavis was telling her to do?

>>610829
Changing my vote to Prince + question gently.
>>
>test to see if shes suggestible
>try to jolt her out of it
>if nothing works, keep her with us til geegee gets back, then foist her upon her

He wasnt finished, so i doubt its permanent, else people would become permanently suggestible. Should wear off eventually.
>>
>“Adel’s looking for you,”
In retrospective, that was a pretty dumb call, especially with the hints at the tine (red crystal).
Sure, it's a distraction, but it's also inviting Tavis to brainwash Adel.
>>
Also, pls dont bring her to the prince. We still have no idea if hes in on this stuff, or where his sympathies lie!
>>
>>610829
>>Bring her to the Prince.
>>
>>610829
>>Test this out. Tell her to do something or ask her something.
>>
>>610909
We destroyed his crystal, he will have to get another first.
>>
>>610933
Luckily for him, Adel has one. Imbedded in his chest plate.
>>
Okay, seems like the winner is generally 'tell/ask her to do something to test this out.' Writing!
>>
>>610829
>Clap our hands in front of her face and say "wake up"
>Take her in roughly the direction of the mages college and see if we can spot Adel/Sorina/Basil

The clap thing is probably less likely to cause her to panic than slapping her.
>>
>>610829
>Test this out. Tell her to do something or ask her something.

Ask her what her name is, what she last remembers, stuff like that.
>>
Actually, scratch that, work called me in a bit early. I'll be back later tonight. You guys keep being awesomely deductive and paranoid, I love that.
>>
Being brainwashed is a hell of a drug. No wonder people keep coming back, the city might have an addiction crisis.

>>610971
I'll be keeping the tab open.
>>
>>610971
Just throw us into an actual Shadowrun world later and watch us go wild. Playing "insanely paranoid" character is a lot of fun, it's trying to tone it down to "reasonably paranoid" that's difficult.

>>610975
>The church thinks their brainwashing people into the Noble One's belief
>Actually just gets people high and they realise "I can get more of this if I pretend it's indoctrinating me into the church"
>Everyone in the church thinks they're "immune" to the brainwashing but won't reveal it.
>>
Y'know, actually, if the incomplete brainwashing DID make her suggestive, we could totally use that to confront Tavis in private, a sort of "Look at what you did to her, was this your intent" deal to make him question what his crystal actually did.
>>
>>610998
this should have been done before we left as Tavis WILL rationalize it as us testing his 'faith'
>>
>>611036
Imagine if that was our out? "Congratulations on holding on to your faith in the face of adversity, you have done well." Then we leave, and mana bomb the city. (or maybe not, that might screw up our contract)
>>
>>611036
At most, we can call upon WWOD: What Would Orind do. Such a despicable thing as controlling others' will is anathema to his teachings.

>>611061
We could still salvage the other heroes.
>>
>>611061
>>611066
I tought it more as, if we went to Tavis now he would blame us for the mindcontrol and get more mad for trying to besmirch the Church, Tavis would disconnect the chuch given gem from the mc.
>>
Tavis is a lost cause by this point. He was raised by the church, there's basically no way he doesn't know on some level that these crystals are used to force people to believe in Orind, even if he just thinks that it's 'cleansing the impure thoughts,' hr knows that it's fucking mind control, but it's okay cause it's for Orind.
>>
>>611215
he may be a lost cause, but he is still a friend in Adel's eyes. until adel knows the truth of the church, we can't kill him.
>>
>>611336
Can't is a strong word. Probably won't is a little better I think.
>>
>>610971

It's time to make a new thread, I'd say.
>>
Ya know, we haven't even explained things to him with evidence yet. He probably has no idea what our point is, given that we never even explained what that crystal actually does. Maybe we shouldn't condemn him to death quite yet. Actually, the fact that we haven't even tried really talking to him and already intend to kill him might be a little unfair at this juncture.
>>
>>611413
It's only page 5, the thread still has days left in it. It's a slow board.
>>
>>611336
Oh we shouldn't kill him.
He is unhinged in all the right ways to help prove our point. He basically acts like the bad guy in a political cartoon whenever something seems to 'go against the faith' and this can and should be abused.
>>
>>611428
It doesn't get bumped. I'd like to be at the top once more!
>>
>>611428
It looked further quite far down in the catalog (7th line).
>>611484
This Quest is top-tier, so it should be at the top!
>>
>>611426
We're dealing with a born and raised zealot though. I feel like even if we do convince him we end up with a broken shell of a man
>>
>>611580
At the very least, though, it'd be fun to break him, especially after all the shit he's done.
>>
>>611580
We shouldn't assume that though.
>>
>>611475
I can agree with that.

>>611623
that too.

>>611627
we overheard the entire way he was raised, remember? he was indoctrinated from the start since he was an orphan.
>>
>>611627
Ehhhhh. Either way worst case is we have to eliminate a the Longshots and that's it, contact complete and we can head home. Unless there's something I missed it doesn't seem like Miranda revisits previous worlds/doesn't really form sentimental bonds with anything not Intersection.
>>
>>611781
You assume the other voters will let us do that. Face it, we're too invested in them already.
>>
>>611794
True. Hopefully people remember how (relatively) unscrupulous we are though.
>>
>>611934
I'm really thrown off by this quest's character tbqh.
if this was a normal quest we would have befriended them and purged the church already with friendship powers, but miranda is too detatched and professional for that.
>>
>>611934
At this point, the only way we'll have to kill all the Longshots is if we start kicking babies and kill Tavis in front of them.

Someone might have pointed this out already, but he was so desperate to brainwash that woman that it might be possible for Miranda to de-zealot him by healing him. Worth a shot, at least in Sorina and company's eyes.
>>
>>612087
Pretty sure he just thought we had an ulterior motive for healing her, and it was probably something corrupting. He does think we're a demon out to turn people away from the faith after all. And that's not entirely untrue.
>>
>>612182
but for a good reason, however.
sure , he doesn't know yet, but when he does, that will give him something to think about.
>>
>>612087
His entire identity is built upon that brainwashing, we try to remove it and he becomes a vegetable.

He thought we to were corrupting her under the guise of healing, so he seeks to undo it.

Hell our healing is just a more efficient version of what their mages were already doing. They wouldn't allow healing magic if it undid their brainwashing.
>>
>>611934
The Longshots are an investment towards a bonus.
Once they cross an arbitrary line where they're more effort than they're worth, Miranda will drop them like deer.
>>
I'm back!

Also, apparently I should make another thread? Seems quicker than the last one!
>>
>>612376
Maybe it's the amount of stuff that's happened that makes it seem like it went faster?
>>
>>612376
Aye
>>
Aight, lemme archive this, then I'll get to making another thread.
>>
>>612182
>And that's not entirely untrue.
The Church is corrupt and needs a change of leadership, but I find it hard to believe that the teachings themselves are so horrible that the Knights need to destroy the faith itself.

Then again, this is a religion that brainwashes everyone who doesn't fall in line. Maybe Orind was a horrible person too.
>>
>>612414
Doubt it.
>>
OncE we drop off brainwashed/high girl, what's the say we try and just talk to Tavis? Not to persuade him, just figure out what he thinks of us and exactly what he's been told.
>>
>>612061
>purged the church already with friendship powers
Happily, this quest is better written than that!
>>
>>612484
If he even gives us the time of day. Time might be better spent elsewhere
>>
>>612484
Tell him he is worse than a housewife insulting and branwashing people based on ignorant rumors.
>>
>>612484
I believe that we should talk to him after the fact has blown up on his face along with others.
>>
>>612618
This
The only way we have any hope of reaching him is after we probe that the church is corrupt and evil and that we are not a demon.

If we or the rest of the longshots are not forced to kill him and he does not break down, then he might be able to see reason in the 'agree with sorina, she is the only stable pillar left in my life' sort of way. Mainly go along with what you say to try to keep her from leaving him.
>>
New thread!

>>612754
>>612754
>>612754



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