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Welcome to Opening night on our production; tonight’s fare is Starborn For Hire Quest! What this is all about is that this is a co-authored crossover, by one Star (of Starborn Quest) and MGHandler (of Magical Girl For Hire Quest). You don’t have to know one or the the other specifically to play, however. We’ll introduce links to mechanics and such as needed, if needed. For now, let the show begin!

Star Details:
Tw: @StarbornQ
Cs:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1csg7vC-Yz10aAqk9ZwdCNv24obLGTtM5p6bKkPq1Pgc/edit#heading=h.74gk3dg6mvjp
Starborn Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Starborn
Pastebin: http://pastebin.com/u/StarbornOP

Handler Details:
MGFH Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Magical%20Girl%20For%20Hire%20Quest
Pastebin: http://pastebin.com/u/MGFHQHandler
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MGFHandler

Discord Invite: https://discord.gg/xM2aCYq

A long talk, honestly perhaps the longest talk you’ve ever had in any of your lives. Catching up Lexington took you almost three and a half hours, particularly due to the Doctor’s habit of asking you to repeat a section of your story for more notation. Hell, he asked you such obscure questions such as the architecture of Murillo, and asked that you hand him the diary once you’re done reading up on your past.

But you’ve put that all behind you. Instead, now it is a short walk to relieve Honamurei of driver duty, the tiny blonde flipping the coin through the air to you like some hustler. A brief temptation to catch the coin in your teeth flashes through your mind, but alas you have used up your mirth for this fine day. Taking the coin in hand, you prepare to settle in for the rest of the day while Lexington scribes your adventure into his personal tomes.

It is a mere ten minutes later when everything changes.

An arm, made entirely of roots slowly works its way free of the earth in a slow inevitable rise. The gnarled limb clenches a scroll in its clenched fist as you approach the spot. Allowing the wagon to slow and then stop, uncertainty over the most logical course of action rolls over you...

Until lightning strikes the arm, reducing it into smoldering rubble amidst a crater where only the scroll remains. ”Lex!” You call. ”There’s some magic shit here, probably for you!” Monotone seeps into your voice towards the tail end of the sentence. Thankfully, it is not long before Lexington descends from the wagon and investigates the disturbance, all while muttering spells and enchantments to make sure this is not some elaborate trap designed to murder you all.
>>
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”Ah, shit.” He says, scratching his beard.

”What now?” You inquire, frustration apparent in every syllable.

”Favour just got called in.” He confesses, looking over your shoulder you see his name in literal flaming letters of blood. The almost cultish writing is composed into a note, pleading for his assistance in a matter that could “destabilize the planes with its impossibility.” As such, Lexington’s face is grim. ”Good thing we planned an extra couple of weeks comfort into the schedule, because we have to make a detour.”

Detours were not part of the plan, and you begin to tell him as much. ”But Hona’s eye, and the academy-”

”Classes don’t start for four weeks, and it’s shitty to admit, but this is far more important than fixing Hona’s eye.” He lights up a cigarette. ”I’m gonna start us on a portal. You’ll have to push the wagon through it.”

”What will I tell Honamurei?”

”That I had to choose between reality and getting her eye quickly.” He pauses, ”And that I decided she suits her eyepatch.”

For once you find yourself wishing you had gutted Lexington on that day at the side of the road, your first day of life. But instead, you turn on your heel and head in to deliver the news to Luc and Lisbeth. This sucks; but if Lex is going to be playing for such high stakes, he’s going to need a heavy hitter like you on his side.
>>
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(Elsewhere...)

The vacation was good to you so far. A signing bonus, a pair of new faces, and some solid downtime with your friends after an unusual job that took an unusual turn.

But, hell, you got paid in spades for it. Heh. That rhymed. But yeah. Sometimes? This life was worth it. If only for the little things. Mercenary work was never dull, that’s for certain. Especially when it’s interdimensionally based.

Lorelei and Izumi, your workmates and fellow dimensionally displaced magical girls for hire are crashing in your apartment at the moment after the welcome party; Lorelei’s lain out on the couch, and Izumi’s just up and on the floor, the other two having left to finalize getting their own place. It’s not the most comfortable, but she doesn’t seem to be showing any hint of distress. You’re just kinda restless, though, up and dressed well before most others would even think of it. It’d been a decent week for you - Sal was nice enough to grant you that time off, now that he had some newbies to break in. You weren’t about to say no to a well deserved vacation after some back to back jobs.

[i]”Heeeeeeeeeyyyy.”[/i] Oh, sonofabitch. [i]”Soooooo, hope you’re good and rested up!”[/i]

Like he cares. [blue]”I WAS.”[/blue]
[i]”Gooooood enough! Because something’s come uuuuuuuup, and only my number-one superstar can handle it!”[/i] Man, he sounds cheerful about this. Sigh. Whatever. Back to the grind.

[blue]”Sure. Right. How much does it pay?”[/blue] If it’s less than double digits...

[i]”Enough, so don’t worryyyyyy![/] Hmph. [i]Here’s the skinny, thooooough- you’re not going to find this one in the classifieds. It’s for aaaaaaaa...how shall we say, ‘especiale’ client. I’ll keep the soooooob story short, but she’s a lass I’ve been begging to use my services for. And whoopeeeeeeee for me, she’s finally bit the bullet!”[/i] Well, ain’t that lovely.

“So, why me specifically?” you whisper out, careful not to wake your compatriots as you walk into the kitchen to get a drink. You’re already tired of doing the mindspeak thing to him.

[i]”Becaaaaause, I want this job to be a SHOWPIECE! Yoooooou’re my superstar, and a representative of what Silver Eye Solutions is about! So of coooooourse you’re going!”[/i] As he finishes up, you see a swirl of mercurial silver erupt out of thin air, as Sal materializes from wherever he was.

He’s still a lizard, sitting on the table, and still has those damn sunglasses on. “Iiiiiiii need to you do a bit of guard duty!”



...What.
>>
>>1310323
“Oh, truuuuust me. It’s a looooooot more interesting than it sounds.” His voice is trying to be reassuring. You’re not very assured...but...well, forget it.

“Whatever. You want me to stand around and beat up anyone that gets close to a VIP? Fine.” Not like you’re going to turn down an easy paycheck. Relatively easy, at any rate.

“Ohhhhh, I wouldn’t call it quite thaaaaaat. But I’ll let the client do the talking- she’s rather the showy sort herself, and I can appreeeeeciate a flair for the dramatique!” He twists once, twice, throwing his hands up like an actor yelling to the sky. “She’ll give you alllllllll the details, as well as information on your temporary partner. So if you don’t miiiiiiind….”

Huh. Partner? What, she hired local help and STILL shelled out for this? Whatever. “Alright, then. When am I off?”

“Welllllllll...now.” He does the finger wave before you can register what he said.

“Wait, wha-” And you’re gone.

...Damnit, Sal.
>>
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>>1310324
The first thing you see is an old man, sitting at the head of a massive wagon. He’s got scraggly hair, an overcoat, and his look upon seeing you is less surprised and more vaguely curious.

Well...Sal had said ‘she’, but...no harm in double-checking. “So...you the client? I was under the impression it was a girl…”

“Client? Doll, I’m just repaying a favour.” He shrugs and lights up a cigarette. Not all that helpful this one, but Sal wasn't generally one to just throw you like this. Wonder what the angle was...

>”So are you, or not?”
>An associate then?
>Whatever you want to call yourself. My boss mentioned a lady, though.
>Other
>>
Interesting with the formatting thing. Something to note for the future. Apologies.
>>
Whoa. hold on. Let me check the archives before voting...
>>
>>1310337

We have it planned for a brief little introduction to everyone before we get in depth.

If you have any Starborn questions I'll answer as non spoilery as possible.

- Star
>>
Likewise, if there's any Magical Girl For Hire questions, I'm open to them.
>>
>>1310329 #
>Whatever you want to call yourself. My boss mentioned a lady, though.

>>1310340 #
Nah, don't bother. I would rather catch up later if that's the case while just going along the thread. Just reading the character sheet now.
>>
>>1310329
>Whatever you want to call yourself. My boss mentioned a lady, though.
>>
>>1310329
>>An associate then?
>>Whatever you want to call yourself. My boss mentioned a lady, though.
>>
As per tradition for MGFH, new thread and first post means extended voting time. 15 minutes left since there was a lot to chew on in the opening posts.
>>
>>1310329
>Doesn't matter, I'm working with you, yes? What's the situation?
>>
>>1310340
I haven't even seen Starborn on the board, seems to have completely flown under my radar. Checking out the first thread now and the character sheet.

What kind of attitude and preferences does Purps have? I want to know so I can at least try to vote in character.
>>
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>>1310337
>>1310356
>>1310358
>>1310365
>>1310373
>>1310383
>>1310393

PURPS

You hear discussions going down in front of the wagon. Which is heavy, like seriously. Why couldn’t Honamurei help? But regardless, you walk around slowly, taking note of the surroundings… such as flat reddish brown dirt in every direction can be. Well, at least there’s a cool animal skull around. In front of a ramshackle gate stands a brown girl with hair that defies comprehension, somehow it manages to go down before curling back upwards and inward on itself.Not only that, she seems to be wearing some kind of tuxedo dress thing, honestly it puts the dress you stole from Lexington on the unusual scale. So you stand leaning on the side of the wagon, you observe the stranger while she addresses your boss;
“Hey, whatever you wanna call yourself. But, my boss mentioned a lady, and if I got dropped in front of you, then knowing him I’m guessing that means you know something or other about it. Family member or the like, maybe?”

Lexington laughs at the question, relinquishing his cigarette and coughing a little before he rubs at his eyes under his glasses; “Look Love, Juno Switchwick is not any family of mine. Old flame, at most.” He slides down onto the dusty ground, the mirth in his voice switching to businesslike with more with every uttered word, “Now my turn for a question. What plane did you come from, outsider?”

> [WORRY] Do you have to piss of everyone Lex?
> [CURIOSITY] Outsider? Is she a devil?
> [LUST] Old flame? Did you bring us here for a booty call?
> [FRUSTRATION] Come on, at least try not to be an asshole.
> Write-In
>>
>>1310374
This gonna be canon? I haven't read a single page of Starborn quest yet, so I feel like I have a lot of catching up to do and I don't think I have that much free time.
>>
>>1310393

Purps is an odd one, she started off blank slate. But her "Level Up" Equivalent is gaining a new emotion. So she's slowly becoming less robotic and more like a person.

I'd say her defining trait is refusing to align with factions - defending and helping her friends and a hatred of Darna (Moon Godess with Cannibal anti Starborn followers)

Her Character sheet shows her current emoions and what they can do for her mechanically. I'd say PRIDE is her go to.

>>1310395
Canon for both.

- Star
>>
>>1310400
Yeah, that is odd, cool though.

>>1310394
> [CURIOSITY] Outsider? Is she a devil?
>>
>>1310406

This is a quest with dance battling foxmen, Purps inventing pizza and Iron Chef esque tea brewing battles with a side character. Things have gotten weird at time in Starborn.
>>
>>1310395
As >>1310400 said, it'll be canon for both sides. Don't worry too much about it, though. You'll be fine.
>>
>>1310323
BTW formatting works only on OP
>>
>>1310418

Yeah that was our effort at testing that, lesson learned for both of us. For those uncertain of coting as Purps in character, seriously do not worry about it. All the emotions she has are as viable as the others in 99% of situations and I always encourage write-ins.

- Star
>>
>>1310418
Yeah, that's understood now. Thanks!

5 minute warning!
>>
>>1310394
>> [CURIOSITY] Outsider? Is she a devil?
>>
>>1310394
>> [CURIOSITY] Outsider? Is she a devil?
Gotta get back up to date on both of these quests after this, now that DLQ has ended.
>>
>>1310394
>[CURIOSITY] Outsider? Is she a devil?
Looks like the most risk free option to me whatever happens
>>
Locked and writing! Confusion and curiosity abounds!
>>
>>1310394
>>1310406
>>1310425
>>1310429
>>1310430
**Miranda**

You lock eyes with the man- smells like a chimney. Not a lot of folks who hired you were so quick to ask that. Or even ask at all. “Somewhere you don’t have to worry about,” you say, answering in the vaguest terms possible as the man frowns deeply at you. “Couldn't actually tell you anything more specific. It's just ‘home’ to me.” You doubted that where you lived could even be called a plane, but whatever did alright by him. That, and… “Besides, saying anything else would be breaking a rule. Long story short, someone’s paying me to watch someone else. I’m here to stop someone from getting hurt, not start anything.” Wouldn’t be the first suspicious client, probably won’t be the last. His problem, though.

“Outsider. Is that some kind of devil?” A girl asks out loud, clasping her hands behind her back and bending forwards until her shoulders pop audibly. She’s a purple haired thing, with a strange face that’s fixed, almost like she’s being puppeted rather than actually emoting.

Nonetheless, you can’t help but snort at her comment. “I can tell you right now, I could be called a couple of things, but not that,” you say, looking at her. Strange girl. She seems to accept that, looking towards the man.
“So Boss, since everyone but you is in the dark…” She lights up her own cigarette and moves to stand next to you, honestly kind of close for comfort; “Who’s Switchwick and why might she need a bodyguard or two?”

He replies to his employee with a smile. “She’s the Sirens’ cloister mother. A whole nunnery full of singers, dancers and models descended from succubi.” The old man scratches his beard. “I don’t know why she summoned us, but that’s one thing the two of you will experience.” He adds, jovially inhaling his cigarette as he heads back towards his wagon. You follow.

> Huh. Succubi? Interesting. "Think they might’ve gotten on a patron’s bad side?"
> "It’s as he says. We’ll find out when we get wherever, if we’re doing the same thing."
> "‘Two of us?’ You not interested in seeing dancing girls?"
> Other
>>
>>1310440
>Huh. Succubi? Interesting. "Think they might’ve gotten on a patron’s bad side?"
>Other: What's the relative tech and magic levels here? I didn't get a chance to grab any plasma grenades before coming, you know.
>>
>>1310440
>> "‘Two of us?’ You not interested in seeing dancing girls?"
>>
>>1310446
Pretty much this, but with less details about ourselves.
Just the general tech level and magic level.
>>
>>1310446
>>1310449

OOC Answer but not IC: Munis has a strange tech level. Handheld weaponry is at modern levels; but in other ways they're medieval. There are lots of ways clever wizards have made stuff like cookers and elevators etc.

- Star
>>
>>1310451

Aware of it now, thanks OP, though it would only be natural for Miranda to ask, now wouldn't it?
>>
5 minute warning!
>>
>>1310446
Snark it up
>>
>>1310440
>>Huh. Succubi? Interesting. "Think they might’ve gotten on a patron’s bad side?"
>>Other: What's the relative tech and magic levels here?
>>
Locked. Writing.

Sal was kinda a dick this go-round. But it's hard to hate him.
>>
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>>1310471
>>1310457
>>1310455
>>1310453
>>1310449
>>1310448
>>1310446

**PURPS**
She walks back towards the wagon, following Lex. “Think they might’ve gotten on a patron’s bad side, then?”
“There’s no patrons here. They tour theatres and singing halls. This place is for everyone’s protection.” Lex explains extending his arms in a grand gesture, “Our one defence against a dozen succubi teenagers raping their way across the republic is a shitty village enchanted by me.” Chuckling to himself he adds, “Also saved them being exterminated - but don’ let reality ruin a nice idea.”
“Ahh. Well, something to think on.” She looks at the both of you one after another. “Mind giving me a quick heads up on the general magic and tech level here? Common spells and the sort? I usually get a bit more prep time than this- didn’t exactly have the opportunity to pick up any plasma grenades or rocket launchers.”
“Well we got tonnes of magic.” You admit, taking a long draw and exhaling a cloud. “But what do you mean tech level?” Lexington looks at you. “We got guns and stuff. Smart wizards do crazy stuff combining magic like making cooking machines.” With a shrug you look at the gate; despite knowing Lex’s wards would probably turn you into a red mist, you’re tempted to just walk up them.
“Look. Merc girl. We got radios, guns and enough magic to glass the continent.” You point at Lexington, “Old Smokey here could level this place easily if he wanted to. He was- or is depending on the day - the strongest Wizard in Munis.” Making sure to add wiggling fingers for effect you add in your trademark monotone, “Woop te doo.”
“That’ll work.” She says, nodding in acceptance.

> [CURIOSITY] Got a name “Merc Girl”
> [PRIDE] And I’m not so bad myself
> [DETERMINATION] You don’t need to worry about us, what do you offer
> Write-In
>>
>>1310504
> [PRIDE] And I’m not so bad myself
>>
>>1310504
>[DETERMINATION] You don’t need to worry about us, what do you offer
>>
>>1310504

> [PRIDE] And I’m not so bad myself
>>
5 minute warning!
>>
Locked and writing!
>>
>>1310504
>> [DETERMINATION] You don’t need to worry about us, what do you offer
>>
>>1310504
>>1310509
>>1310521

“And I’m not so bad myself.” The purple-haired girl says with more than a bit of pride. Huh. Well, Sal DID mention that you’d be doing work with a partner. Maybe this was his angle? It’d make sense from a certain perspective. Still didn’t like how he’d just thrown you over with nothing but a ‘see ya’. Nothing worse than going in blind. At least they had magic and guns. Hopefully they had some method of non-magical explosives. That’d be nice. You can feel the vibe of mana in the air, too- chances are you’d be alright here so long as you weren’t too reckless. Speaking of…

A small, single sniff on her has you turning your head a bit. She smells like sour milk and maybe a bit of trash...and grass...and dung...and roses, and- okay, what the ACTUAL hell? There’s like over a dozen scents coming off her and it’s all one giant potpourri now and...fuck it. You shake your head slightly and shut your nose, so to speak- it’s something to work on later. If for no other reason than to get the smell of acrid decay out of your mouth that the geezer’s putting out. Izumi probably’d love to get wind of that. Not literally, of course, but she’d be fascinated by the sheer permanence of it.

Back to the present. Strange girl’s looking at you funny. “Okay there, Merc Girl?” She asks- looks about as expressive as a Stonemoss Dragon at a funeral.

>I’m fine. So, been at this long?
>Don’t worry about it. When are we moving?
>Yeah. Just don’t overestimate yourself. Heard that one before.
>Other
>>
>>1310580
>>I’m fine. So, been at this long?
>>
>>1310580
>Yeah. Just don’t overestimate yourself. Heard that one before.
>>
>>1310580
>Don’t worry about it. When are we moving?
>>
5 minute warning, as usual!
>>
>>1310585
>>1310586
>>1310598

Hm. Draw. Vote'll remain open for the next 10 minutes, then I'll simply roll for it.
>>
>>1310621
Then I'll change to >>1310585
>>
>>1310580
>>I’m fine. So, been at this long?
>>
We writin', then! Experience in that, we have.
>>
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PURPS
The brown skinned girl’s eyes suddenly come back into focus, “I’m fine. Have you been at this long?”

“Well I’ve been doing this all my life.” You say counting on your fingers, “So 8 days.” You try to keep you poker face and see how Merc Girl reacts to this.

She cocks an eyebrow. “Homunculus?”

You shrug; sounds like a fancy term for golem. “Long story short, amnesia. Don’t think I’m a golem judging by… recent developments.” You can’t help but blush.

“She means she’s getting laid, girl!” Lexington butts in, hopping off the wagon and pretending to be ignorant of the crimson spreading across your cheeks and desire to strangle him infecting your mind. He keeps pace whistling slightly as he strolls over. Merc Girl just side eyes him, then you again, before her mouth presses into a thin line with a small hum. You think she doesn’t necessarily disapprove, but she says nothing.

His eyes have started doing the glowy bullshit thing again, and you know his enigma is active; at least his unsettling scanning technique isn’t on you this time. “My wards are all still up, so no idea how someone fucked with any of the sirens. Guess it’s time to knock.” He begins absolutely tearing into the gate with kicks, treating as if it were a mangy old mutt that had bitten his ankle. Despite the appearance of the gate as a ramshackle, make do series of boards weathered and sanded smooth by the harsh winds of this miniature dessert; they more than hold against his barrage.

“I’m Purps by the way.” You say by way of introduction, offering a handshake to the girl as you pull a cigarette out of your pack with the other. “Smoke?”

“Pass,” she says with no real heat in her voice. “And you can...call me Verde.”
With a cry Lexington falls on his ass in the dust, the force of the gate’s enchanted opening mechanisms blunting and then overruling that of his feeble kicks. As he tumbles into a small cloud, you are greeted by the sight of a woman. Almost ethereal in appearance despite being of age with you, her long black nightgown has streaks of lavender through it. She smiles serenely and tilts her head at you as the gap between the left and right face of the gate widens evermore. She waits patiently for you all while Lexington begins scrambling to his feet.

> [CRUELTY] Laugh at Lex
> [WORRY] She’s far too young to be Lex’s old flame
> [FRUSTRATION] Finally, quicker this is sorted, the quicker Hona’s eye gets fixed
> Write-In
>>
>>1310661
> [FRUSTRATION] Finally, quicker this is sorted, the quicker Hona’s eye gets fixed

We've got priorities, damn it
>>
>>1310661
>> [FRUSTRATION] Finally, quicker this is sorted, the quicker Hona’s eye gets fixed
>>
5 minute warning!
>>
>>1310661
>> [WORRY] She’s far too young to be Lex’s old flame
>>
Locked and writing!

HURRY UP
>>
>>1310661
>>1310669
>>1310676
You gotta admit, you’re kinda impressed with how he managed to have at the thing for so long. Shame it didn’t seem to work out well for him. At least he got it open, though, so there’s that much.

“Finally,” you hear Purps say. “The quicker this is sorted, the quicker Hona’s eye gets fixed.” Huh. Wonder who that is? Likely friend or family. Who knew.

As you walk through, you see a young lady nearby nearby, waving you- well, the man- down, and you all stop in front of her, off to the side. Her hair is well kept and trimmed to her shoulders, and her dress is simple, full body, and flowing- easy to move around it. It reminds you of a pastor’s garb, really. She has a refined, polite air about her that makes you think she’s either nobility or in service to them. Or maybe she’s just exceptionally polite, hell if you know.

“Ah, hello.” Even her speaking is quiet and respectful. “Judging from your description, you are the individuals the lady has informed me about? The, uh...hired help? Forgive me, but I wasn’t given any names...”

“Just call me Lexington,” the man grouses.

The girl looks at her with a small expression of curiosity. “I’m Purps.”

“Call me Verde. It all sounds about right,” you agree. She sighs in relief, and her smile widens.

“I am Jaqeline, and I help Ms. Switchwick as best I can. Come, I’ll lead you to her.” The village is busy, but anyone you come across is quick to stay out of your way. It’s...quaint. To say the least. You could almost jump across the whole damn thing in one or two jumps if you had a good running start, you think. Looking at the simplicity, you’re curious about the supposed tech level disparity here; the way the man had phrased things, it seemed like it was some sort of early magitech type stuff- not that you’d have guessed, looking at the thatched roofs and wooden buildings. Still, you’d have to keep an eye out for anything interesting if they weren’t exaggerating. Precious few buildings line the streets as you head down into what seems to be the (relatively) busier area- you can hear chickens elsewhere, even. Various orders towards other individuals are heard- the sounds of a calm, yet commanding voice adding to the chaotic yet organized hustle and bustle of a small village with a clear, single function.

cont.
>>
>>1310819
As you get near the center of town, it’s not long before long you find yourself in front of a large, two storied building that from your experience seems to be a church- far larger than most of the other buildings and with a tiled roof, to boot. In front of it is a tall woman, regal and dressed well, with protruding horns and a pair of brilliant wings on her back. She speaks with the air of someone who knows exactly what they’re doing at all times, and it’s only after she finishes sending several individuals off that she looks to you, with a small smile on her face.

“Ms. Switchwick, I’ve bought the guards as you’ve requested,” Jacquline states.

“Excellent, dear. Resume your original duties, please.” Jaqeline bows as she does so, leaving you and your allies alone with the woman who was, apparently, likely your client.

> Take the lead. “So, you’re the one who hired us?”
> Let the old man take the lead. He’s the one that knows her.
> Other.
>>
>>1310819
>> Let the old man take the lead. He’s the one that knows her.
>>
OMG, two of my favorite quests, together! Where's Luc, I wanna see him teleport behind Miranda.

>>1310824
> take the lead
The wards seem decent, what are we guarding against, unruly John's?
>>
>>1310835

> Letting Luc into a succubi nunnery

DEATH BY SNOO SNOO

Also, I can't believe we have overlap. You have made me happy.

- Star.
>>
>>1310824
>> Take the lead. “So, you’re the one who hired us?”
>>
>>1310824
>> Let the old man take the lead. He’s the one that knows her.
>>
>>1310824
>> Let the old man take the lead. He’s the one that knows her.
>>1310840
I should have been more obvious before in that I have also read both of these quests
>>
>>1310824

> Take the lead. “So, you’re the one who hired us?”
>>
>>1310824
>> Take the lead. “So, you’re the one who hired us?”
>>
Time to get down to business. Writing!
>>
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>>1310867
>>1310853
>>1310852
>>1310845
>>1310843
>>1310835
>>1310831

Verde steps up first, looking at the lady with all the formality of a soldier- hands behind the back, standing straight. “Hello, m’am. I’m to take it you’re the one who hired us?”

“I imagine by your professionalism that you are from the agency. I am Juno Switchwick, matron of the siren cloistery. A pleasure.” She offers your companion a polite curtsey and you only slightly roll your eyes at the pomp on display.

“So, why are we here?” You interrupt mid curtsey causing the winged woman to turn her gaze on you with the fury of a thousand storms. The temperature dips and you resist the urge to activate lantern at the sudden aggression.

“With such rudeness I take it you are Vernon’s latest conquest?” She says with a dismissive hand wave, bidding you to follow her as she walks through dirt streets rapidly becoming busy with the work of young women.

Your attention is caught by a golden armoured angel, two shining wings of light and scarlet hair enrapturing your gaze while she leads another lady by the arm. Her look of bliss and enamour with every facet of life is contrasted sharply by the grumpy look on the sleepy looking blonde. The redhead notices your procession and gifts you a smile as sweet as Luc’s sugary tea. Then you realise you should probably retort to Juno Switchwick in some manner.

> [LOVE] Don’t swing that way.
> [PRIDE] The fuck do you think you are
> [ZEN] I am no man’s conquest. Simply here to help you, LEx owes you a favour and sent his best.
> [CURIOSITY] So who’s trying to kill you? Why are there no guards here?
> Write-In

Handler is now on mobile, so I'm flying semi-solo for now. We'll be having some plitting up soon. When I go to bed he'll be flying solo. This way spotlights for everyone. YAY TIME DIFFERENCE.
>>
>>1310902
>> [ZEN] I am no man’s conquest. Simply here to help you, Lex owes you a favour and sent his best.
>>
>>1310902
>[ZEN]
Eh, this seems plenty prideful away.
>>
>>1310902
>> [PRIDE] The fuck do you think you are
>>
>>1310902

> [ZEN] I am no man’s conquest. Simply here to help you, LEx owes you a favour and sent his best.
>>
5 minute warning.

- Star
>>
Locked and Writing.

Totally didn't forget to Lock and start writing.

- Star
>>
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>>1310940
>>1310939
>>1310936
>>1310910

You breathe in.

Exhale.

“Look. Professor, I am no man’s conquest. Lex just wanted to send his best to repay whatever favour he owed you.” Nice and evenly, perfect. You didn’t even sound like an emotionless monster, “So seriously, why are we here?”

Your honesty appears to have struck home as Switchwick looks slightly less like she’s about to claw your eyes out, Verde says nothing, instead opting to raise an eyebrow in your direction. “Agency girl. Please come with me. I’ll show you. Could you please keep an eye on the girls? A couple of them like to slack off if possible.”
She nods. “Understood. If you have any particular concerns, now's the time for me to hear them…”

Watching Verde retreat with Professor Switchwick, you decide to walk into the church, which is alive with activity. You see girls lighting candles, both of them spitting image of the other with black hair cropped to shoulders and long flowing red dresses.

Beyond that, a wolf head rests atop a mane of brown hair, the ragged nest a perfect mirror to the wildness in the rest of her appearance. She moves like a huntress as she stalks with dustpan in hand; sliding under pews to track down every dust mite with her eagle eyes. She is the first to spot you and pauses.

Floating in front of a shrine to Minerva, a girl in flannel skirt and white shirt levitates. Lightning dances around her feet as she changes from walking on air with a list of chores to floating upside down from the rafters to stare at you with mouth agape. Her eyes light up when she sees you and you notice that she’s even smaller than Honamurei. With a smile you begin thinking back to your night with -

A black silk hand runs across your neck softly, drawing your attention from the sirens to a new target. She stands in the alcove by the door, seemingly idle for now. Your cheeks flush as you behold the green haired woman before you. Her clothing is far from modest and it compliments her busty, thin waisted form optimally, the bat wings on her back matched in miniature with a pair lying above her ears.

CONT
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>>1311020

Licking your lips, you are stunned from reverie by a rough voice barking out at you; the Wolf Girl. “So this is ‘oo she got? Some dame with red eyes? Ooh, that’ll scare ‘em!”

The others start talking over one another in a cacophony of noise that makes you wince a little, the interest in you far eclipsing any potential interest in chores and working. It’s shameful, but you enjoy all this attention. “Look… we don’t know her. She could be really tough.” One of the twins says crossing arms over herself.

“She could also be a total pussy.” The other adds with hands on hips accusingly, “Just here to collect some cash for a cosy posting.”

Shirt girl lands amongst her friends with a silent thump, “She’s from outside! Do you know how amazing it’ll be to talk to someone from outside!” Lightning flying girl beams, “Not about music, or dancing! She might know about other stuff!” She continues babbling until batgirl cuts through the ruckus form beside you like a bullet in the chest,

“Well…” says the one who ran her hand over your neck, “Let’s give her a chance. Who knows what will happen.” She coos, heavy with innuendo.

> [PRIDE] Questions one at a time

> [CURIOSITY] So what’s up with all the wings and weirdness

> [DETERMINATION] I will be your bodyguard.

> [WORRY] Look, I can handle whatever’s going on. Just please, relax.

> Write-In
>>
>>1311025
> [PRIDE] Questions one at a time
>>
>>1311025
>[DETERMINATION] I will be your bodyguard.
I'm not a pussy, I cut on a dragon even! Wait, scare who away?
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>>1311025
>> [DETERMINATION] I will be your bodyguard.
>>
>>1311025

> [DETERMINATION] I will be your bodyguard.
Also declare your the sun goddess chossen one, show of tattoo and pry to her
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>>1311025
>> [CURIOSITY] So what’s up with all the wings and weirdness
>>
DIDNT MISS TWO MINUTE WARNING AT ALL HAHAH

5 (3 min) warning.

- Star
>>
Locked and writing.
>>
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>>1311086
>>1311035
>>1311053
>>1311054
>>1311081
>>1311086

“My name is Purps. I will be your bodyguard.” You answer, silencing them all with the steel in your voice. “Firstly, I’m no pussy.” is your answer to their accusations. Striding forward until you’re in the midst of them and staring at the small makeshift shrines, “I’ve fought a lot of shit. Dragons, other Starborn.” You eyes glaze over a small shrine off to the side that has fallen into disrepair, the sight of it sickens you and your next words come out in a frazzled growl, “Darnites.” Pacing towards the lightning girl you put your hand on her shoulder, “I’m here to protect you all.” The solemness of your proclamation is pretty apparent to everyone.

“Miss.. Purps?” The shy twin asks.

“Just Purps.” You retort in monotone.

She seems emboldened by this and stops rubbing her arm timidly, “I’m Loti.” She says, “The Slam Siren.” Her lips curl upward, “Thank you for coming to help us.”
“Well she bloody better be good.” Wolfgirl asks. “I’m Mono; The Spirit Siren.” She stretches her neck from side to side as if trying to crack it. No noise comes forth and she tries not to look embarrassed.

“Me-Gan. Soul Siren.” Batgirl introduces spiralling into the air where she is promptly grasped and dragged back to earth by the other twin.

“Lita.” She snaps as she twists Me-Gan’s arm harshly. “I’ve not got a nickname yet. Thinking something like SMASH Siren!” She sniffs, “But I’m not impressed with you. You’ve got no fancy titles.”

Lightning girl drops in front of you, “Please forgive her! She’s super rude Purps.” She grabs your hand with both of hers and pumps it up and down while you emulate Verde and raise your eyebrow, “OH! I’m Trisha, the Sweet Siren! I don’t know why though..” She trails off while Sirens roll their eyes behind her, “I like rehearsing and practicing my lightning magic. Um, and spending time with all of my sisters.” She finishes like a proud child, you can’t help but ruffle her hair to distract her from Loti and Mono saying “Awww” behind her.

“Now let me introduce myself properly.” You say, realizing that these sirens all love a bit of performance art. If they’re not impressed by your name, perhaps a dramatic reading of your titles, accomplishments and dramatic reveal of your Minerva brand might impress them.

> 1d20
>>
Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>1311134
>>
Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>1311134
We do so have a fancy title, we just don't go round saying it because... Well I forget. But there was a reason
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>1311134
>>
>>1311134
> Minerva brand
> low rolls
We're going to flash them aren't we?
>>
Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>1311134
Didn't specify a maximum number of roll so.....
>>
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>>1311165
>>1311167
>>1311162
>>1311160
>>1311142

> TFW Roll 4 is the only pass
>>
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>>1311142
>>1311160
>>1311162
>>1311165
>>1311167

You step forth, powerful steps leading you to the step before Lady Minerva, her welcoming arms held out to embrace all ye who would pray to her. You spin, your jacket billowing briefly like a cape as you pivot and face the pairs of enraptured gazes, “My name! Is Purps!” They gasp at your proclamation as it echoes around the hall, “They call me [THE PURPLE FIREFLY]! A title I earned with my unique ability to channel Lady Minerva’s fire!” You pause and clench your fist letting it briefly spark purple and coat your forearm much to the assembled crowd’s delight; “I wielded a power so great I can stand toe to toe with the dragon Balthazaar; a power so mighty I became The Savior of Grinnsmon! None can harm you while under my protection, for I am backed by LADY MINERVA HERSELF!” You point to the heavens and flick the buttons on your trousers at the finale of your grand speech, aiming to let the garment flash your red fire brand that marks you as one of the Lady’s chosen. Instead what happens is you realise you have yet to shave as a small tuft of Purple hair sents blushes into all of the assembled siren’s faces.

Flashing Now? Minerva snarks in your mind, On Holy Ground too? Purps. This Does not please me.

> [SHAME] Immediately apologise
> [PRIDE] Burn brighter than the sun to distract them!
> [LUST] -Deadpan- My girlfriend broke my button (lie)
> [FRUSTRATION] Not Now Minerva
> Write-In
>>
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It is 1:27AM Here In Scotland. Handler will take over when he gets home and situated to run. Perspective will probably switch to Randa for a while then. Wanted to end on some goofy ham suceed or fail.

- Star
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>>1311193
Just roll with it. Never be caught off guard.
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>>1311255
Supposed to be [PRIDE]. captcha fucked shit up.
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>>1311193
[PRIDE] distract them
Maybe this should be determination though.

>>1311239
Goodnight Star, thanks for running!
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>>1311193
>> [LUST] -Deadpan- My girlfriend broke my button (lie)
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>>1311193
>[PRIDE] Burn brighter than the sun to distract them!
>>
>>1311193

> [PRIDE] Burn brighter than the sun to distract them!
>>
>>1311514
Well mybe if you put that mark somewhere eils i wouldnt have had to flash them
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>>1311193
>[PRIDE] Burn brighter than the sun to distract them!
Dammit, fell asleep on the middle of the run. Timezones man.
>>
>>1311193
*Miranda*

“This is why we called you.” Well, this is off to a fantastic start.

You both take a look at the corpse of the poor girl Switchwick had led you to in the chapel. She was set to be interred shortly. 'Billie' was her name.

“Trisha- that’s another one of my girls- apparently said that she was found strangled to death, after a show in the stage area which ended when they both saw something that shouldn’t exist.” Switchwick explains.

“And that something was?” you ask as you kneel down to take a look. She’s long dead, and you can indeed see signs of strangulation around her neck. No burns or strange marks, though.

“Another siren. A MALE siren,” she says ominously. You spare her a glance- you’re not entirely certain just why this was such a big deal. She seems to catch on to that, however. “Male sirens cannot exist- it’s a matter of that which makes sirens being explicitly exclusive to succubi. Those with the blood of Incubi are far different.”

“So someone’s breaking the mold, then.” you say. It’s more common than you’d like that something’s supposedly impossible only to have someone come along and prove it wrong.

And yet, she shakes her head. “I have quite the time believing that. However, what isn’t hard to believe is that this is not the only occurrence. It’s happened twice more, though fortunately with no fatalities. The circumstances are...quite unusual, as those wards Vernon placed are quite powerful. Nothing should have been able to get in or out without our permission. And I can absolutely assure you that there’s no soul in here that could have done it- simply due to the fact that males are not allowed in. Succubi blood, after all.”

“Right.” Any males probably would’ve been smelled and snapped up like feed to a fish. Question now, though, is...if that WAS a male, then how it did get through their defenses?

“I grew concerned that perhaps something was wrong with the barriers, or that something simply that strong was disrupting them," she continues. "And so, I felt it prudent to acquire...extra help.”

“I can see why, then.” You stand up. There’s little you can do here Billie’s corpse is quickly re-covered, and you can see now what Sal was apparently talking about.

“Protect my girls,” the matron says, and her eyes are hard and serious, staring at you. “Find whoever or whatever did this, and figure out a way to stop them. I care not for justice, simply that this never happens again.” So kill 'em. Yeah, you could do that.

Suddenly, a brilliant, bright purple flash erupts out of the few windows that the chapel has. You’re forced to cover your eyes briefly, but Switchwick is far more caught off-guard, stumbling back a few paces. “Awk! What in the world…?”

You shake your head, clearing the dizziness. “I’ll check on it in a bit. For now, I need some information to start on.”

>This is an investigation, so name up to three questions/actions for Miranda to do.

(Also sorry, but I'm exhausted. Will resume in the AM.)
>>
>>1311917
>Ask about the other two girls and where can she find them.
We need to find a relation between the three girls
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>>1311917
Time for super slueth bloodhound miranda to do a lap around the property trying to smell boy smells. Also ask Lex about the details of the wards, would a male siren be a loophole to the anti-male ward?

I kinda remember watching some shitty tv series where there was a bunch of witches and they said male witches weren't a thing but it turns out the were but they had being killing them at birth because they were scared of a prophecy. Just saying.
>Are there any other sirens who have declined to join your sanctuary who could have been involved.
>Do you have any enemies? Anyone who is opposed to you or what you are doing here?
>What lead them to think it was a male siren? And what did they do upon realising it?
>Umm, what kind of show was it?
>Can I get some coffe and donuts? They help me invistigate.

It's probably a dragon. Dragon's are bullshit.
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>>1312029
Supportin'
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>>1311917
>>1311947
>>1312029
Supporting:
>Ask about the other two girls and where can she find them.
>Do you have any enemies? Anyone who is opposed to you or what you are doing here?
>What lead them to think it was a male siren? And what did they do upon realising it?
>>
>>1311917
> Can any of the female sirens shapeshift or possess people?

Get a run down on all their powers and weird magic shit.
>>
I'm back so we might be jumping back into Purps' shoes soon.

- Star
>>
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>>1313919
>>1313283
>>1312128
>>1312029
>>1311947

PURPS

Now that the distraction has worn off and you're re-dressed and pretending nothing ever happened... you decide an offensive is in order. "So one of you said something about someone I was to scare away." Looking around you remember it was wolfgirl. "Mono, right? What am I in for?" You ask.

The room goes silent and the sirens all begin looking at each other. They promptly begin inspecting the floor, cieling and windows. The door closes and Jaqeline enters, already answering your question, "Well. Professor Switchwick asked that we don't discuss it until she explains." She demurely admits.

"Fook that!" Mono snaps, "We got some kinda freak comin' after us!"

"She's got a point Jackie..." Loti says curling her hair around a finger, "I mean, what if he attacks now?"

"Look." Jaqeline says, "Tell her whatever. Just don't come to me when the professor gets the crop." She huffs.

"Well Purps." Me-Gan seems to linger over your name, "Our dearest Billie was slain by some abberation." She shrugs as if this is common, "Apparently some male siren exists."

"Such bullshit." Lita interrupts, "We know only women sirens can exist."

"I know what I saw Lita!" Trisha spits with venom from two feet off the ground, "I was there, it was a siren; but a guy! He had this noose and it just..." She trails off as she runs out of steam, apparently not eager to recall the rest.

> [CURIOSITY] Someone tell me why a male siren is impossible?
> [DETERMiNATION] What did this guy do? How did he look?
> [WORRY] He just appeared and killed someone... sounds tough.
> Write-In
>>
Just noticed typos. Shit, I'm multitasking so I blame that.

- Star
>>
>>1314065
>> [CURIOSITY] Someone tell me why a male siren is impossible?
>>
10 minute warning

Extending these because im running at such an unusual time for most followers.
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>>1314083

Locked and writing. Probably gonna hold off for an hour or two before continuing after this though.
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>>1314083

“So would any of you mind telling me why a male siren is impossible?” You ask with hands on hips.

“Look, Purps. We’re all… odd.” Jaqeline begins making small circles with her feet. Looking around you notice everyone is embarrassed and awkward.

“Sirens are what happens when a woman has succubi blood somewhere in her tree.” Trisha continues, descending and sitting on one of the dusty shoddy benches with a thump. Guess nobody dusted it yet,

“Means we need to stay away from blokes.” Mono throws in with arms crossed while leaning on a wall, “So we don’t fuck ‘em to death.”

“And… well they keep us here. Because if not -” Loti begins, looking like she’s going to cry.

“Fuckers would kill us at birth.” Lita finishes coldly.

“So, this demonblood makes you sirens.” You say evenly, interesting. “What does it actually do for you?

“We look fantastic.” Me-Gan says with a vicious smile, “Untold magical power. Easy to get off-” She begins listing.

“Mainly. We can alter reality with our performances.” Lita interrupts smacking Me-Gan to stop the dirty minded tangent she was bound for, “It means we can do what a theatre troupe does solo.”

“In short - we make bards look like shit.” Mono summarises, “So they let us tour about every now and then.” She looks at you, “Under guard.”

> [CURIOSITY] But you’ve not got any guards.
> [DETERMINATION] I want to see what you can do
> [PRIDE] Seems like you handle it well
> Write-In

Paused until a time when more people are around.
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>>1314115
>> [CURIOSITY] But you’ve not got any guards.
>>
>>1314115
>[CURIOSITY] But you’ve not got any guards.
?
>>
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>>1314115
>> [CURIOSITY] Could there possibly be a rogue siren that performed herself to be male or make a male counterpart?
Pic related to singing shit into existance.
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>>1314195
And upstart fuckboys into swamps.
>>
We're back! Will resume writing in 30 minutes!
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>>1314198
>>1314195
>>1314187
>>1314128

I'm also gonna be back around, just cooking and errand-ing atm. I leave you in Handler's hands for like 45min to an hour.

- Star.
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>>1314195
Sounds possible but I wonder if getting a "yea probably" from these girls is even helping.

>>1314115
> [DETERMINATION] I want to see what you can do
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>>1314115
>>1314128
>>1314187
Alright, with Switchwick being as cooperative as she has been, you think it’s time to reconnect with that ‘Purps’ girl before you start roaming around town. Better to coordinate in cases like this instead of just going off and doing your own thing...even if she is some kind of strange natural, she’s a rookie, no doubt. Switchwick showed you back to the main area of the church, which you’d been lead past through the hallway. The girl’s been talking with who you can presume are the performers.

“But you’ve not got any guards.” you hear Purps note.

“Yes, they do.” You see her turn at the voice- seems she was caught up in things. “That’s what we’re here for.” The girl in front of her, a wild looking, scraggly thing with a wolf’s head, just stares at you in surprise.

“Oy, there’s anotha one?” The wolfish girl exclaims. “Just who tha’ hell are YOU?”

“Call me Verde. I’m your second bodyguard.” You quickly take stock of the group assembled- seems like a number of the girls present have taken interest in Purps.

“Oh, are you from the North?” One of the girls asks. She’s in a flannel skirt and white shirt. “I’ve heard things from around there, and-”

Okay, yeah, nah. You quickly cut them off. “I’m just here right now because I’ve got questions. Which of you saw the murder happen?”

There’s a few moments of stunned silence, before the girl that’d asked you the question just then raises her hand timidly. “That was me. I-I don’t really like talking about it…”

“Understandable, but if we’re going to get down to the bottom of this, I’ll need to. I need a full accounting of how it happened.” You’re already fixing her with a direct stare, no need to make her think she can weasel out of this. “Along with a full description of who or what you saw.”

She sighs in despondency. “I...it was yesterday.. We do morning rehearsals and d-during the last half of the show with Billie, I saw someone I never saw before...it...he was amazing. He just came up, and he sang, and- and...I couldn’t help myself!”

cont.
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>>1314311
“Couldn’t help yourself?” you ask.

“I had to!” She sounds slightly hysterical now. “I-I kept singing with him! I don’t know how or why, but-but...I saw Billie run!” She’s in tears now. “H-he caught her with a rope! It-it moved like a snake, just twisting and wrapping and before I knew it…” She breaks down crying, as the girl from the gate and one of the two twins move to comfort her.

It takes a few moments for her to calm down, where you say nothing. When she resumes, she has tears in her eyes. “It...he was really handsome. REALLY handsome.” The split-second way her eyes light up confirm that to you. “He had a mask on the left side of his face, with AMAZING hair. Dressed in a really really nice outfit; pure black and mysterious. And he was the BEST singer, I…I just...”

“Couldn’t help yourself, right.” So, the siren got serenaded. Ironic. “Switchwick informs me that you’re travelling performers. Don’t have any grudges or enemies? No sirens that maybe didn’t want to join, couldn’t maybe want to ruin you all? Switchwick says no, but I know how some folks are. Everyone’s got secrets.” They all shake their heads.

“Everyone LOVES us,” a girl with bat-wings in her hair says. “So I could hardly imagine anyone out for revenge or as a grudge.”

“Plus they kill us in the wild.” The twin who isn’t comforting the witness says with a sneer, “So probably not a rogue siren.”

Alright, then. So no immediate suspects, nor motive, but you do have a method and description of the target. Which next means...

>I think we’re going to need to check out the scene of the crime, Purps.
>We should take a run around the perimeter, see what’s going on there.
>I’m going to need a rundown of abilities a Siren can do.
>Other
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>>1314312
>I think we’re going to need to check out the scene of the crime, Purps.
>I’m going to need a rundown of abilities a Siren can do.
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>>1314322
this
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>>1314322
supporting
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>>1314322
ditto
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>>1314312

>I’m going to need a rundown of abilities a Siren can do.
>>
>>1314322
sure
>>
Pretty unanimous. Writing!
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>>1314312
>>1314322
>>1314324
>>1314326
>>1314333
>>1314356

You turn to the girl. “We’re going to need to check out the scene of the crime, Purps.” She nods, and you turn to the assembled. “Can you come with or no?”

“Sure.” She seems honestly, quite happy to get out of here, “The girls were just introducing themselves.” With that, you both head out, to the dismay of the girls. A loud voice that you recognize as Switchwick’s rings out, and you’re left with small squeals of fear.

Running her hands through her hair, Purps walks out the building doing her best impression of a brick wall. “Friendly bunch.”

As you walk, you turn to the girl at your side. “You get any info yourself?”

“Sirens come from succubi. Get strong magic out of the deal but live here or get murdered.” Cracking her knuckles, she starts stretching her arms as if she’d been still for too long. The buzzsaw on her hip is now some kind of axe or saw, thing. Not sure what that’s about, but so long as she doesn’t turn it on you. Maybe some kind of shape-changing weapon? Haven’t seen too many of those.

Still, you mull over the information. “Right, that one rough-looking one mentioned something about how people would kill them. Said that’s a reason no one would be any kind of Siren on the outs, but that tells me that there’s a particular dislike for Sirens, period. Might be an issue of prejudice. ‘Suffer not the siren to live’ or something like that.” You think over the situation. “It’s kinda strange. Someone in some fancy clothes and a mask comes out, sings good enough to stupify a siren, uses levitation magic to hang a girl in full view of the stage. That’s gotta be some kind of statement.”

“Seems like the guy has a flair for the dramatic.” Purps notes. “Then again, this is a theatre troupe. If someone wanted revenge on them, they’d probably want it to be over the top right?” She shrugs.

“Probably.” You agree, considering the method. “If it was an assassin, they wouldn’t do all that jazz unless they were a complete amateur. If it was just a serial killer, they probably wouldn’t have had the elegance to do it like they did- likely would’ve just went straight for the hanging death, and in private to admire their work rather than just grab, tug, and run. This is someone that wants them all to know and be scared.” If it was prejudice, you could see it being done like this, but all things considered...perhaps not. It smacked a touch TOO elaborate.

“This is new territory for me. Usually I just have to kill and not die.” Purps admits, looking kind of awkward again. Her saw is back to normal now. “If it was another cannibal priest it would be easy. Oh, forgot to say there was a Darnite shrine in that church. Someone here likes the Moon Goddess.”

“Ok?” You have no clue what that means, but sure.

cont.
>>
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>>1314448
As you arrive at the west end of the village, you stop as the stage comes into view, immediately giving the area a once over. It’s an outdoor arena, the stage itself occupied by what looks to be three more sirens, practicing lines, from the sounds of it. They don’t even seem to register your presence, so props to them for dedication. The stage itself is wooden, and there’s several spotlights running along the bottom of the stage pointing up. The stands are sort of built into the ground, though you can see several wooden benches as well. It’s a relatively simple setup, with a canopy as well, and a very small back area, likely for props and resting. Surrounding the area is grass, and there’s treeline in the back. It’s not particularly thick, however. Around the cloister is sand, right around the wall which gives out to the forest after a short walk to the right of the stage.

“So, this is it.” Purps says in a flat tone.

You nod, getting used to her monotone. “Seems like. Off the top of my head I’m wondering how difficult it’d be to sneak in through the treeline. There’s a couple ways here where if I wanted to make a flashy kill, I could do it quick and easy. Break out through the forest, go in, stab. Or if I didn’t care about getting caught, opposite end of the pathway during a show. Enter stage right, exit stage left. Possibly just hide out right behind the staging area and leap out if I was feeling bold.”

“So, what are we doing first?” She asks.

>Talk to the three on stage. They look like they’re about to leave. There was another attack, I was told, so one of these three should be witnesses.
>Case the area. Check for anything like strange scuff marks, unusual markings like soot or fur, broken twigs to show an escape route.
>We’ll take a look in the back rooms. Might be something there that the killer had.
>Other
>>
>>1314455
>>Case the area. Check for anything like strange scuff marks, unusual markings like soot or fur, broken twigs to show an escape route.
>>
5 minute warning!
>>
>>1314455
>Talk to the three on stage. They look like they’re about to leave. There was another attack, I was told, so one of these three should be witnesses.
>>
We're tied. 5 minutes for tiebreaker, then we'll flip for it.
>>
>>1314528
>Talk to the three on stage. They look like they’re about to leave. There was another attack, I was told, so one of these three should be witnesses.

We got time.
... I think.
>>
>>1314535
>>1314504
>>1314474

Locked and Writing.

- Star
>>
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>>1314535
>>1314504
>>1314474

“The girls on the stage. We should talk to them.” Verde says. “Switchwick said that there was more than one assault, even if Billie was the only casualty. None of the other girls at the church raised their hands about anything happening, so that means one of them should have another story to tell. They look like they're about to leave, too.”

“The gold clothed one seemed friendly when I passed them earlier.” You respond, scanning the surroundings. Honestly, with your enigma? Getting a vantage point here should be easy. Tree branches, rooftops, walls, light scaffolding. Walking down the aisle between the impeccable viewing benches, you notice that a diva of a redhead seems to be leading the two. Though this is only tolerated, as every time the grumpy looking blonde siren is about to chew out the new siren, the friendly girl diffuses the situation with dazzling smiles and soft words.

Bossy bitch has little bursts of fire coming from her hands and feet intermittently while she rants. They burst and twist as she hums the tune to whatever number they just finished rehearsing. Her hair even has a change in colour similar to the heart of a fire; clearly fire siren got taste.

“Hey.” You call out by way of greeting, causing the blonde to frown and tilt her head towards you. “I’m Purps, this is Verde. We’re going to be protecting you.” Just now you notice the blonde is totally blind, judging by her eye contact being about a foot above your head.

“Oh, good afternoon Miss Purps! A-and you too Miss Verde!” The scarlet haired woman says slightly bowing as you’re some kind of big shot noble.

“Just Purps.” You wave off.

“What about you three? What’s your names?” Verde asks, as you notice her eyes quickly scan the trio.

[CONT]
>>
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>>1314604

It’s kind of nice having someone to take the decision making off your hands. You just have to be the muscle, make sure the girls aren’t going crazy with worry and kill stuff. Doable. “I’m Pina!” Golden Girl says suddenly, snapping you from the introspection. “My friend is Velth but-”
“I don’t really like people.” Velth says with arms folded. Girl is trying to follow the voices of everyone but you catch her murmur, “So loud…” to herself.

“She’s not had any coffee yet.” Pina adds by way of apology. Poor girl is going out her way to make her friends seem perfect. She should just accept some people are how they are… though by thinking that you’re probably breaking you’re own advice.

“I am Alice, Siren Superstar.” The flame haired girl butts in, while you tap your fingers against your forearm, “I have been called the queen of opera; Munis’ hidden treasure and a beauty to eye and ear by reviewers Republic-wide.” She introduces. “I also happen to be quite the sorceress, so I shan’t need your trifling protection.”

Miranda just cocks an eyebrow, hands in her pockets as she leans back casually. “Uh-huh.”

“You don’t say.” Is all you mutter before Pina can apologise on her friend’s behalf. Honestly, this woman is going to be an issue for you both with this kind of attitude.

> [PRIDE] Teach her a lesson

> [CURIOSITY] Why don’t you perform a number for us Alice. Give us your best

> [DETERMINATION] Nice to meet you, now which of you saw the bad guy.

> Write-In
>>
>>1314606
>> [DETERMINATION] Nice to meet you, now which of you saw the bad guy.
>>
>>1314606
> [PRIDE] Teach her a lesson
>>
>>1314606
> [PRIDE] Teach her a lesson
>>
5 Minute warning.

- Star
>>
5 minutes to go! Any other votes, get them in.
>>
>>1314606
>> [DETERMINATION] Nice to meet you, now which of you saw the bad guy.
>>
Ah, sorry, forgot to mention lock after time. We're already writing and about to post.
>>
>>1314606
>>1314633
>>1314637
Welp. Alice was going to be one of those types. You can see that neither you or Purps are particularly impressed; the prissy types like this were usually of one or two types- they were ridiculously overconfident, or beyond good as they claim- and the latter type were exceedingly rare. Plus, you could see that she didn’t carry herself as any kind of fighter whatsoever.

And then Purps speaks up. “Show me.”

You side eye the girl as the haughty kid simply smirks and waves off the others nearby- each of them wearing a similarly troubled expression as they back off. Part of you is warring between your concern about her saying anything and possibly getting your pay reduced, and another that says this shock to her system might well serve you better in the long run. In the end you just snort, taking a few steps back, resolving to get involved only if it looks like she’s going to do lasting damage. Wouldn’t be any good if the girl got a bruise or something and couldn’t perform.

That’d DEFINITELY come out of your pay.

The priss speaks up. “You should be honored.” God, like you haven’t heard this one a million times. “For a lady of such high standing to deign to face you is clearly a rare occurrence.”

...Ugh. Just hope the kid makes it quick.

“Any time you’re ready,” Purps says.

In the next second, the girl’s hand blurs, tracing out some mid-air pattern; her hand glowing briefly. “Dancing Flames!”

...Oh, that poor, poor girl.

cont.
>>
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>>1314793
With that plentiful warning, a spiral of fire bursts forth from her hand; four streams of flames circling around each other as they spiral towards Purps and engulf her entirely. She never even moves. Immune, then?

As the flames clear, it certainly seems so as suddenly movement comes out of the tail end of the flaming attack, Purps dashing in low to quickly dart her leg out and scythe the girl’s feet out from under her. The look of incredulity on her face as she goes down trips, a mild schadenfreude as she slams against the wooden floor back first, her stupification clear as Purps puts a foot to her neck.

The other girls are in shock as you walk up next to the ‘combatants’, looking down on the girl that looks like she’s had her whole world, much less her feet, taken out from under her. “W-whaaa…? How did you…?”

“Still don’t think you need protection?” You ask, raising an eyebrow. “Doesn’t really matter, cause we’ve got questions, so we’re sticking around for a while anyway.” You look up at the other girls. “If you don’t mind, that is.” They all shake their heads no. “Grand. Which one of you three saw the phantom murderer?”

It’s a bit before the one responds. “That...would be myself…” Alice says. It’s a far smaller voice than she used before.

Go figure. “So, you saw Mr. Handsome Killer on his second murder attempt. Did he try to strangle you?”

To your surprise, she shakes her head. “N-no. He just stayed there and sang briefly before leaving. His voice was rather lovely, though...well, I didn’t see his face under that mask, so I couldn’t say he was ‘handsome’. I could see his eyes, however...such a haunting, piercing glowing red...” Huh. Strange. Very strange.

>Did you see which way he went? Or perhaps came from?
>He may be in a different mask, then. Do you have any around? Props?
>An accomplice, maybe. You didn’t see anyone else?
>Other
>>
>>1314796
>>Did you see which way he went? Or perhaps came from?
>>
>>1314796
>Did you see which way he went? Or perhaps came from?
>>
>>1314796
>>Did you see which way he went? Or perhaps came from?
>>
5 minute warning, if anyone has any other thoughts.
>>
>>1314796
>An accomplice, maybe. You didn’t see anyone else?
>>
Which way did he go Geor- Alice?

Locked and writing!
>>
>>1314796
>>1314802
>>1314812
>>1314819
Concerning. “Did you see which way he went, then? Or did you see him approach?”

She shakes her head. “He was just there before I could recognize. When he left, it was in a rather dark cloud of mist. It’d cleared before I could even begin to follow.” By this time, Purps has backed away, allowing Alice to get up into a sitting position. “I must admit, at the time I thought it a jest, a prank...then I heard about Billie. Poor dear…” Well, at least she has some sympathy. Unfortunately, that lead is a dead end.

You sigh, thinking of it all. “Alright, pooling what we know for certain. Male, tends to wear a mask, has an impeccable singing voice, capable of enchanting individuals. Also capable of appearing and vanishing at a moment’s notice. All people involved ended up so entranced they sang with him. At the end of it, one of them was dead, and the others were untouched.”

“What separates Alice and Trisha from Billie?” Purps chimes in as she, without fanfare, just strolls up a wall, onto the roof of the stage, before stopping when she clambers over the lighting scaffold to examine it up close.

Neat trick. Could come in handy. “That’s the big question, I suppose. I take it your plays were different? Maybe something about the people in general or the circumstances specifically. Might be this phantom is a theatre buff and didn’t like whatever Billie was doing. Or maybe-”

And click goes the key. “Maybe Billie didn’t appreciate his singing as much, considering she ran. Vindictiveness...”

“Wouldn’t surprise me,” Purps says. “People get defensive over their art. It’s why I don’t like singing or dancing in public.”

Yeah, you neither. Still, it wasn’t a decisive lead, but it’s something to consider. Either way, performing seems to be at the heart of it...

>Continue asking Alice questions. (What?)
>Leave to speak to Ms. Switchwick about the performance schedule.
> “Would you girls feel like showing us a full performance right now?”
>Other
>>
>>1314952
> “Would you girls feel like showing us a full performance right now?”
>other: set up Zone Alarm and Light Traps
>>
>>1314952
> “Would you girls feel like showing us a full performance right now?”
>other: set up Zone Alarm and Light Traps
>>
>>1314952
>>Leave to speak to Ms. Switchwick about the performance schedule.
>>
>>1314970
Sounds good
>>
>>1314952
supporting this: >>1314970
>>
5 minute warning.

(Huh, some folks remembered Miranda can do magical stuffs. Neat!)
>>
Writing, incidentally!
>>
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PURPS
You sit on your makeshift perch while Verde starts heading around and making hand gestures. Wizard shit. More wizard shit. Minerva help you, you’re beginning to miss the days of you Luc and Hona just doing normal people things.

Yeah, normal stuff like murdering Darnite mercs and fleeing places… You have a strange barometer for normal but it doesn’t involve magic or teenager murder. Apparently the girls are gearing up for a number, as the three are channeling some of their magic into the lights around you. Normally you can’t sense the stuff but you can literally see the little flickers of light forming around each girl before the crystals housed in the glass lenses shimmer the corresponding colour.

Hopping down next to the girls you ask out of curiosity, “What are you planning on singing?” You ask, surprisingly a sheet is thrust into your hands by the blind girl. It contains lyrics, musical notes for both singers & musicians and scrambled handwritten notes both in plain writing and some kind of bumpy dot language you don’t recognise.

“I wrote this one. It’s easy and upbeat.” Velth informs you, “Normally I sing it duet with Trisha, but Alice and Pina are learning it too for the Twilight Tour.” She clears her throat and you begin clearing the area while the Sirens all get into position at the back of the stage. Velth hikes her long skirt up and Alice removes a layer of her weird, fluffy, skirt thing to reveal tight dancer’s leggings beneath.

You look to Verde to see if she is done with her magic bullshit. She’s looking out at the surrounding area, at the top of the stands as though she’s inspecting the place. She turns to you after another few seconds. “Think that’ll do it,” she says, quickly jumping down to you. “I’ve put down a warning system that’ll alert me to any presence in the vicinity not already in here. Aside from that, I’ve set down a few ‘zones’ that’ll outright assault anyone if they’re anywhere they shouldn’t be- on top the roof, back in the treeline. Should at least delay them, if not incap on trigger. My traps aren’t exactly intended for gentle capture.”

“So my plan of hanging out on top of the stage is out. Guess I’ll take a seat and enjoy the show.” You pat Verde’s shoulder, “Thank Minerva one of us is good at this magic stuff. Nice to just be the dumb muscle again.” You say earnestly.

She lets out a snort of amusement. “It’s not quite my normal wheelhouse, either, but I suspect that’s the intention.”

“Showtime then.”

CONT
>>
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>>1315112

Settling into front row, stage centre - you wiggle a little on an imaginary pillow before slouching into the fancy bench. Honestly, you feel like something’s about to happen and you’re ready to spring into action. But it is the Sirens’ who put your hair on end when music begins to play from nowhere, and they begin their song in unison.

https://youtu.be/invkWEsijBs?t=12

As I came down through Dublin City at the hour of twelve at night -

A village bursts into life there on the stage, a small girl wandering through it lost and alone with nothing but rags and a blanket to her name. Faceless crowds pass as the building grow larger and larger around the infant. And it looks like the little girl is in for a frightful time.

Until a lady with olive skin and gleaming green eyes emerges and offers a helping hand. The upbeat tempo of the song and the almost conversational vocals from the sirens puts you so at ease that you begin to glow slightly as [CONTENTMENT] washes over you.

Until a shining explosion radiates from the stage roof.

CONT

Perspective Switch Imminent
>>
Probably should have talked to their boss before using them as bait.
>>
I hope they don't mind if we lightly dismember a suspect or two.
>>
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>>1315112
>>1315120

*Miranda*

Your head dings almost before the explosion goes off. “And there it is.” You look up to see exactly what triggered the explosion, but it’s not what you expected, when you see the smoke and lights clear. True, he’s got a mask...but you can barely see it. It’s a frowning theatre mask, black, much like the rest of his outfit. He’s scrawny and yet has a half-cape over his arm, and his platinum white hair goes down to the small of his back as he steps forward shakily.

And he opens his mouth, and huh. Damn if that’s not a solid tenor. At least, you think it is. It’s a wailing, lamentable song that seems to be rather operatic, but you get the feeling that it’s quite full of sorrow at what is and what will be.

Strangely enough, it seems the girls on stage think so, too- their eyes glass over as suddenly their own peppy, upbeat yet comforting song seems to transition slowly into matching his own song, their illusion transitioning the city itself, as it becomes something even more dreary, snowing and windy. The lady and girl are accosted by ruffians, only to barely be waylaid as a monstrous person seeks to-

-Yeah no, alright, done here. Whatever’s going on, he’s the cause, and it’s high time to end it. Looking at Purps, you get the feeling she agrees.

Miranda
>Magi-blast salvo straight to his masked face.
>Get up there personally and try to beat the sorrows out of him.
>Keep near the girls to prevent anything happening to them.
>Other

Purps
> [LUST] On The Pull - drag his ass of the roof
> [PRIDE] MINERVA’S LANTERN
> [CURIOSITY] See if you can hit him at this range
> Write-In

>COMBO (What?)
>>
>>1315286
>>COMBO (What?)
Have Miranda fastball special Purps into the guy, then shoot magi-blasts at him.
>>
>>1315286
>[LUST] drag his ass down
Then
> Orbital ring
Then we can have a chat. Purps can cut his rope if he tries to use it and the locals can find out what his deal is.
>>
>>1315286
>>Keep near the girls to prevent anything happening to them.
> [LUST] On The Pull - drag his ass of the roof
Let Purp pummel him, while you keep on the lookout for others.
>>
>>1315298
Why?! You shoot them both
>>
>>1315307
like 90% certain Miranda has this cool ability called "Aiming".
>>
>>1315312
Sounds like witchcraft to me.
>>
5 minute warning!
>>
>>1315312
But if you throw Purps at him she is going to be in the line of fire, unless you expect her to bounce off.And you are putting her in danger without knowing what she can do.
>>
>>1315286
>Magi-blast salvo straight to his masked face

> [PRIDE] MINERVA’S LANTERN
>>
>>1315301
This
>>
Actually, scratch the warning. Star is tired and I need to get to work, so the vote will ride until tomorrow at 12 PM CST. It'll be locked then and anything after won't count.

Strategize and debate amongst yourselves until then or maybe read our quests'- thanks a ton for playing since this is actually rather exciting for us.

Until tomorrow!
>>
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Yeah guys, I've been writing through a bitch of a migraine and I'm out of co-codomol.

Thanks everyone for the following and those who haven't experienced the world of Munis or Purps; I hope you stick aorund after this crossover.

- Star
>>
>>1315286
supporting this: >>1315301
>>
Thinking about it, >>1315361 is right on the last half. We know what they can do OOC, but not IC. Miranda and Purps should really spar after this.
>>
>>1315286

>Keep near the girls to prevent anything happening to them.

> [LUST] On The Pull - drag his ass of the roof
>>
>>1315286
>Orbital ring

>[CURIOSITY] See if you can hit him at this range
>>
I'm awake but I got some hiking to do today. We have 4 and a half hours from this message and Handler and I continue writing.

- Star
>>
>>1315286
>>1315301
>>1315383
>>1315453
**Miranda**
>7,200/11,000

Alright, then- if he’s so busy singing, then hopefully you should be able to capture him for interrogation. You clap your hands together lightly, already stretching them to the see the ring of energy build and grow. With a sharp eye towards your opponent, you thrust your hands forward in an effort to get him lassoed as fast as possible- you see a twisting whip, bladed and fierce-looking, stream out towards him with bad intentions out of the corner of your eye; you figure that has to come from the girl with her shape-changing weapon.

>Roll 2d20 for Miranda and Purps, in that order.
>>
Rolled 5, 18 = 23 (2d20)

>>1317484
>>
Best of three, forgot to mention.
>>
Rolled 5, 4 = 9 (2d20)

>>1317484
>>
>>1317487

Purps grabbing the shit out of Accursed one so far.

- Star
>>
Rolled 14, 3 = 17 (2d20)

>>1317484
>>
And that's our three. Normally would be a 30 minute wait, but situation considering, we're writing.
>>
>>1317484
>>1317487
>>1317493
>>1317497
>14, 18.

The man leaps into the air, all while singing a crescendo in his little personal opera; the ring sails under him before you can redirect it, but the razor whip right behind you is able to adjust quickly enough, and you see the thing snake around the killer bard’s torso, pinning his arms to his body- you can see him jerk a bit with the pain.

Purps yells at him, “Get down!” before tugging the target towards you both like a harpooned fish- you quickly reverse direction on your ring as he tumbles down fast, a warbling, morose cry erupting from his throat as he lands square in your ring, which you then quickly shrink to close around his legs. The only response from the man is his continuing solo piece as the sirens enamored with him seem to remain under his thrall, the scene transitioning to something that resembles a church, abandoned and half-collapsed, as a raven alights on a statue of some holy figure right outside of it. Wonder if that’s symbolism?

If nothing else, he doesn’t seem to be in any particular hurry- lying at the foot of the stage as he is, he seems strangely content to continue singing, even as you both approach.

Miranda
>See what’s under his mask. Time to get a positive ID.
>Get him to shut up. Whatever he’s doing, the singing is the cause.
>Apply Ring to his arms- that whip’s already gone.
>Other

Purps
> [CRUELTY] Fuck Him up
> [PRIDE] Not bad at all Verde
> [WORRY] Wake up the Girls
> Write-In
>>
>>1317522

>Fuck him up with shock touch until he stops singing/falls unconscious.

>> [PRIDE] Not bad at all Verde
>>
>>1317522
>>See what’s under his mask. Time to get a positive ID.
> [WORRY] Wake up the Girls
>>
>>1317522
>Apply Ring to his arms- that whip’s already gone.
> [CRUELTY] Fuck Him up (Make sure he stops singing)
>>
>>1317522
>Get him to shut up. Whatever he’s doing, the singing is the cause.
>[CRUELTY] Fuck Him up

Got to make him stop by any means necessary.
>>
>>1317522
>other
Ring his legs and then Channel our mana into our hands to put on the hurt while we choke him out.
> [WORRY] Wake up the Girls
>>
>>1317522
>>Get him to shut up. Whatever he’s doing, the singing is the cause.
>> [WORRY] Wake up the Girls
>>
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5 Minute warning Everybody.

- Star
>>
>>1317544
His legs are already ringed, so it'd just be the second half of your post.
>>
>>1317522

>See what’s under his mask. Time to get a positive ID.

> [WORRY] Wake up the Girls
>>
Apologies, >>1317567 a bit late. We're about to post.
>>
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>>1317546
>>1317544
>>1317535
>>1317534
>>1317529
>>1317528
>>1317567

PURPS
“Check up on the girls,” Verde says as she looks down on the man, still wailing lamentably. “I’ll handle our crooner.” A sudden crackle erupts as her hands light up with mana.

You head up to the stage, leaving Verde to her most likely unpleasant business. Hurrying onwards and upwards, you head through the church, revealing a wedding with it’s weeping bride and warped groom. Pina has found herself playing the part of unwilling bride while Alice and Velth are her maids. Shaking the weeping redhead does little to bring light to her glassy eyes. Looking around the pews, it’s all faceless men and woman with dresses and suits, all in black. Each one’s garb matches that of the killer’s in a bizarre mirror of reality.

Pina is looking at her white haired groom with love and adoration now. The disembodied voice of their singing sounding a bit like an operatic rendition of a marriage ceremony is setting ice into your bones; you get the impression you have to take some kind of action.

> [FRUSTRATION] Introduce Groom to your Saw

> [FEAR] Burn the Stage Down

> [WORRY] “Kidnap” Pina

> [CRUELTY] Massacre the guests

> Write-In
>>
>>1317569
> [CRUELTY] Massacre the guests
>>
>>1317569
>[CRUELTY] Massacre the guests
>>
>>1317569
>> [WORRY] “Kidnap” Pina
>>
>>1317569
>[WORRY] “Kidnap” Pina
>>
5 minute Warning!
>>
Draw. 10 minute tiebreaker since I need to take care of something real quick anyway. Afterwards, I'll just flip for it.
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

Coinflip it is.

1=SEA OF BLOOD
2=I'll get you my pretty!
>>
>>1317569
> [CRUELTY] Massacre the guests
>>
Blood blood blood blood.

Writing!
>>
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>>1317569
>>1317579
>>1317582
>>1317637
>>1317664
He won’t.

Stop.

Singing.

Why is baffling. You’ve done your absolute best to light him up- a few clubs around the head, an attempt to burn at him with mana (which he barely seemed to feel), and shocking him with skin to skin contact doesn’t even do more than change his tenor and tone, changing it to a warbling note instead of a steady one. Honestly, you’d be impressed at his resiliance if it weren’t annoying to deal with.

The play’s still going because of it- at least Purps should be working on snapping them out of it. It’s all too clear his voice is the problem. Maybe if you just-

A sudden wet, slicing sound forces your attention away from the mindless singer for the moment; although you notice his wordless tune gets more frantic and dark. You look up at the stage, now showing the inside of the church, and you have to move your head to avoid the shredded half torso that’s sent your way.

Whatever just happened, Purps apparently wasn’t too enamored by it; the girl’s apparently gone nuts, her hands now adorned with long, sharp claws, and her face sporting a small condescending smile. She guts one of the faceless guests, kicking it over to watch while she slowly begins dragging her claw upwards; julienning the imaginary being into thin strips, the blood flying out like a fountain. Another immediately behind her is decapitated with little fanfare as it tries running away; when she trips, Purps wraps the wire attached to her claws around it’s ankles and pulls it back to her. She barely even exerts effort despite its attempts to grip the floor in desperation. It’s only then you realize that the scene is a wedding, with one very familiar girl in the bridal position. The other two are off on the side, cowering, but you can see that they’ve yet to snap out of it- their eyes are glassy still, and clouded.

The groom himself seems shocked- his warped visage reminded you of the man you’re trying to silence, only his mask seems molded to his face, and his body clearly broken and beaten regardless of clothing. He leaves the pulpit as he seeks to draw a hidden blade on Purps, who seems to be ignoring him; his gait unnatural and his head listing in jerks. You’re honestly unsure whether to attempt to interfere or not.

>Shout a warning. It might alert both parties to each other AND you, but better than letting her get stabbed without warning.
>Let it happen. Hopefully Purps isn’t so far off the deep end that she can’t recognize when she’s left her back open, and killing the ‘star’ should end the play, right?
>Pulp the singer outright via Magi-blast. It’ll probably dispel the illusion (and part of the stage), but that’d leave you dealing with a Purps that doesn’t seem to be entirely stable…
>Other
>>
>>1317706
>>Shout a warning. It might alert both parties to each other AND you, but better than letting her get stabbed without warning.
>>
5 Minute Warning. How this is handled is important, I'd say.
>>
>>1317713
>>1317713
Change mine to
>Pulp the singer outright via Magi-blast. It’ll probably dispel the illusion (and part of the stage), but that’d leave you dealing with a Purps that doesn’t seem to be entirely stable…
>>
5 minute extension. If no one else votes, then, well. Going with >>1317745
>>
>>1317706
>>Shout a warning. It might alert both parties to each other AND you, but better than letting her get stabbed without warning.
>>
>>1317706
>Pulp the singer outright via Magi-blast. It’ll probably dispel the illusion (and part of the stage), but that’d leave you dealing with a Purps that doesn’t seem to be entirely stable…
>Other: Break one of the singing man's arms
>>
LOCKED

- Star
>>
Hmm...will we get docked our pay for killing the suspect and damaging the stage? Shit, we forgot to ask if the Collateral Damage Rider was purchased or not.
>>
>>1317820
Switchwick has explicitly said she doesn't care what they do to the suspect so long as the girls don't come to harm. They're her top priority.
>>
>>1317820
That would be Sals fault not ours
>>
>>1317820

So reacking all there things they dont care so aoe all you want
>>
>>1317767
>>1317762
>>1317745
>>1317820
>>1317828
>>1317831

PURPS

Looking around, you see you’re partway through your bloody work. You get it now, you totally understand it; this stupid magic of The Killer made these girls change their number to something that he wanted. In order to direct and participate in the performance of his favourite script; sucks for him that the fucker did not expect that you actually recognise and also like this show.

“Black Mamba.” A bride betrayed by her ex lover and witness to the slaughter of her new partner. She later becomes a badass and goes on a revenge streak - only this sonovabitch was playing all the male roles and could ensure Black Mamba Pina does not in fact survive the assassination attempt like in the script.

So fuck it, murdering some illusionary guests? Pretending to kill Pina; that’s totally easy, especially since you’re not under control of his singing. So all this amount to is stretching your legs and going for a particularly bloody jog around on on the stage. Without even having to sing or dance, you’ve managed to take the role of one of the most beloved villains in Theatre.

With a start, your self satisfaction at the genius of your plan is interrupted by your partner extending her hand, a light erupting out the end of it as a blast of light detonates, the resulting explosion sending up a shower of wooden splinters as part of the stage itself is reduced to rubble. As is The Killer’s head. Which, you know, also a good idea.

The body seems to waver and suddenly dissipate, smoke sloughing off its rapidly vanishing form as Verde looks up with an annoyed frown. “Great. So there’s magical inertia.”

You’re about to ask what that is when you find your hands going to your buzzs- handgun? “Wha’ on Earth do ah hav’ a ‘andgun?” You ask in thick Tintonian accent. It is then the hat on your head and exquisite suit begin to magically appear around you… your plan might be backfiring.

> Continue playing your part. The plan is sound. You can handle this.
> RESIST 1d20 - you’re not falling for brainwashing like last time
> [FEAR] Tell Verde to ring you - if only to stop you from doing whatever the music wants you to
> Write-In
>>
>>1317839
>RESIST 1d20 - you’re not falling for brainwashing like last time
>>
>>1317839
>> RESIST 1d20 - you’re not falling for brainwashing like last time
Well we can sing and dance, so lets sing and dance. Continue playing the part.
>>
>>1317839
>> RESIST 1d20 - you’re not falling for brainwashing like last time
>>
>>1317854

Those two things kind of can't co-exist man. Resisting and playing the part are mutually exclusive.

- Star
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>1317839
> RESIST 1d20 - you’re not falling for brainwashing like last time
>>
>>1317880

Remember not to roll until we lock it. Lucky for this roll.

- Star
>>
>>1317879
Crap put the wrong prompt in
>>1317854
> Continue playing your part. The plan is sound. You can handle this.
>>
>>1317839
>>1317875
>>1317880

Locked. 1d20, people, best of 3!
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>1317934
Oh boy.
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>1317934
>>
File: Damn.gif (1.97 MB, 350x176)
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>>1317949

> TFW You won't get to write this critfail
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>1317934
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>1317934
>>
>>1317954
Of course not. You're tag-teaming with me. Magical Girl For Hire folks know how to roll dice.

-Handler
>>
>>1317959
fuck, one post too late
>>
>>1317988
Crap. I blame the captcha.
Stupid street signs.
>>
>>1317988

We are currently debating if we're keeping Starborn rule for late crits or MG rule of ignoring late crits.

- Star
>>
>>1317839
>>1317958

Alright, so killing him (if he’s dead, his body didn’t go limp and that concerns you) didn’t work out. The magic isn’t connected to him actively, then. That’s not the part that really concerns you, though. Or it does, but not as much as seeing Purps get a magical clothes change out of nowhere and start speaking in an accent she hadn’t spoken in before.

You squint as she shudders intensely, trying to shake off something- likely the magic’s adjusting her mental state, as well. She’s frowning intensely, now, and is tearing up the hat... did this fuck just try to possess her or something? Looks like it didn’t quite take.

Well, that’s good. You’re going to have to step in yourself, it seems like. She seems to be doing a decent job of holding the ‘adjustments’ off, but that won’t last forever, and that’d just make things ten times harder. With the phantom gone, you’re going to have to do something about the girls before it gets worse, and if they way things are going is any indication, you’re going to have to do it quickly and carefully…

>Write In
>>
>>1318043
Knock em out and take them off stage for starters

Also stuff that dude's mouth with something so he can't make any sound, if that fails crush his windpipe I guess
>>
>>1318043
Flux Wave.
Fuck up everything and everyone.
>>
>>1318072
this
>>
>>1318043
Backing >>1318072.
>>
>>1318072
This will be FUN, supporting
>>
>>1318043
>Flux Wave AND Solar flare.
turn it up to 12
>>
>>1318043
supporting this: >>1318072
>>
When you absolutely just need to knock the hell out of everyone in the immediate vicinity.

Writing!
>>
>>1318043
>>1318072
>>1318075
>>1318077
>>1318079
>>1318086
Yeah, no time for making things subtle now. If this carries on, who knows what might happen.

You take a deep breath, stilling yourself as you run through the patterns in your head as mindlessly as you can. Numbers, feelings, density, it all flashes in your head and out of it as fast as you can stand. Without letting yourself prepare you hop up, getting to at least the floor of the stage before letting loose a quick double wave of randomized mana- the whole of the stage being temporarily bathed in it, washing over all present- illusion or not. The girls, ideally, should be out of it. Purps…



...Eh, she’s a big girl. You hope.

PURPS
>Activate No Sell? Y/N
>>
>>1318161
Y
>>
>>1318161
Y
>>
>>1318161
Y
>>
what is no sell?
>>
>>1318191

Nope.JPG - the technique.

Literally let's Purps take no damage. oOnce per thread ability.

- Star
>>
>>1318161
>N
>>
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>>1318209
>>1318191
>>1318179
>>1318178
>>1318169

PURPS

The concentration required to resist whatever the fuck is happening to you isn’t that intensive after the first burst tried to change you into some ridiculous gunslinger. In fact the shivering is the only side effect of it now, so you begin to unclench your fists and straighten your back. You huffing and feeling so warm it’s like you’d just been sitting in some hot springs. Looking around the sirens are holding each other and crying, so they’re still on script. Good? You think?

Original plan had you pretending to stab the maids and pretending to shoot Pina like the stageplay, but judging by the magic trying to make you ACTUALLY TURN INTO THE CHARACTER- probably best not to tempt fate. So you turn to Verde and - a pair of waves of multicolored magic that make you literally think of some kind of magical sea bursts from Verde, washing over everything present. You instinctively flinch before the onslaught of colour and brace yourself.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOGkZsuFILU

But you will not yield.

Magic. You really are beginning to hate magic. As the spell begins to crackle and fade, the sirens all flop down in the spectrum of magical lights; unconscious but seemingly unharmed. Straightening back to your full height, your slam your polesaw onto the stage. Now Verde doesn’t seem the backstabber type - but she did just launch a big fucking spell at the stage.

> [DETERMINATION] I am not amused. (Confront Verde about Friendly Fire)
> [CURIOSITY] What and Why? (U fokkin wot Verde?)
> [FRUSTRATION] Little heads up before hitting me with shit Verde? (Purps is Grumpy)
> [PRIDE] Don’t even address it, check on Killer (You’re above making this an issue)
> Write-In (Qms a shit, I got a better idea)
>>
>>1318222
>> [CURIOSITY] What and Why? (U fokkin wot Verde?)
>>
>>1318222
>> [CURIOSITY] What and Why? (U fokkin wot Verde?)
>>
>>1318222
>> [PRIDE] Don’t even address it, check on Killer (You’re above making this an issue)
No harm, no fowl.
>>
>>1318222
>> [PRIDE] Don’t even address it, check on Killer (You’re above making this an issue)

Ask her afterwards though. Job first.
>>
>>1318222
>> [PRIDE] Don’t even address it, check on Killer (You’re above making this an issue)
>>
>>1318222
> [FRUSTRATION] Little heads up before hitting me with shit Verde? (Purps is Grumpy)
>>
5 Minutes Left.

- Star
>>
5 minutes. Fiiiive minutes to decide whether to make this a thing or not.
>>
Locked for letting it slide. Writing!
>>
>>1318222
>>1318230
>>1318237
>>1318240
The way Purps looks at you after the girls collapse tells you she probably didn’t appreciate that. Well, it was a calculated risk. And she actually tanked it- which you have to admit, is impressive. The wave was still somewhat incomplete, but that was probably the first time anyone had just outright shrugged off the effects- usually they at least doubled over if they didn’t pass out. She doesn’t say anything, though, just frowns as she heads near you- the smoking body of the Phantom fading away as she approaches. Seems like that last bit did the trick, however, as you slowly see the stage returning to normal behind Purps.

“...Well. At first blush, that went alright, I’d say.” you admit. “Although I get the feeling this isn’t the end of it. Too many loose threads.”

“Well, he doesn’t match any of our descriptions.” Purps concurs as she takes out and lights a cigarette, “I recognised the scene by the way. Black Mamba Act 1 Scene 2, I tried to take the part of the villain - maybe pretending to kill them would have derailed his plan… but…”

“I didn’t feel like the risk would’ve been worth it, personally,” you opine. “Hence the wave.”

“It was going fine. Then the music started trying to control me. There’s worse magic control out there, but still didn’t think it’d work on a non siren,” is her defense, as she lights up with a purple flaming hand.

You sigh in mild exhaustion. “Well...now you know. I wasn’t affected, though I’m honestly clueless as to why. Might’ve been as simple as not getting on the stage. But, that’s for later. I’m thinking we should get these three back to Switchwick and update her on the situation.” You look back at the slightly wrecked stage. “And I should probably heads up her about the damage.” Ugh. Really friggen hope that’s not coming out of your paycheck. She DID imply doing whatever it took…

“Look, she doesn’t have to know.” Purps offers, “We grabbed him before he did some magical push thing that sent everything flying. Easy Lie.”

...Huh. Didn’t think she’d go for that. It oddly sticks in your craw a bit, but… “...Eh, if she asks.” You can deal with it for now. “Appreciate that.”

“It’s fine. Switchwick has been a bitch to me so far, and well... no sense in you losing money over nothing.” She says, cracking her knuckles. “I think I’m going to go see where our other girls are. Call me crazy, but maybe someone has went AWOL from chores.”

You nod. “Good call. I’ll see what our future holds, then.”

With that, you both collect up the girls, making your way back to the chapel. Along the way, a thought strikes you. “So...over/under on the next phantom attack?”

cont.
>>
I'll be writing the cont after walking the dog through the monsoon that is Scottish Weather.

-Star.
>>
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PURPS

After leaving Verde with the girls at the chapel, you decide to leave Verde doing all the business stuff and updating of the bitch. Seriously, she’s looking at you with a glacier’s worth of ice and you already told her you have no intentions of moving in on Lex. 1, he’s old. 2, he’s your boss. 3, you’re kind of, maybe, probably gay. Either that or Hona-sexual. Removing the tiny now exhausted cigarette from your mouth and chucking the stump out of the way behind the nearby chicken coop, you decide it’s time to pay a siren a visit. Maybe they’ll say something incriminating or snuck over to watch you and Verde do your job.

Because honestly, your bets are on one of the sirens being crazy and using illusions to try and ice their competitors. They’re dancers, singers and actresses; no matter how sane and reasonable they appear, skimming through Laurelai’s diary shows your past self had one conclusion.

Actresses, Singers, Dancers are fucking crazy.

Tossing your saw up and around the chimney of the house on the opposite end of the street, a quick recall propels you along the wire’s trajectory and onto the chimney with the grace and ease of experience.

Inhaling the fresh air, you feel your [ZEN] for the first time since entering this cloister. The view is pretty nice and when you exhale it’s with fresh resolve to get stuff done.

> Suggest a Siren who is not Velth, Pina or Alice to track down
>>
>>1318491
Lita
>>
5 Minutes.

- Star
>>
>>1318500
just gonna second that because votes
>>
Locked.

Writing now.
>>
So the guy that Miranda was working over was an illusion in the end? He isn't really mentioned after Miranda focused on the stage. If he slipped away under cover of it maybe we should just kill him on sight next time. Unless he was never there at all which means Miranda's traps need to be in less obvious places of he can trigger them with illusions.
>>
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>>1318625
>>1318568
>>1318500

Lita.

The twin who was bold. She’s an interesting one and seemed very knowledgeable about sirens in general. After all, wasn’t she the one who told you the world murdered people like them at birth if they don’t come here?

With that, you begin hopping over buildings, humming a little song to yourself. The tune is unfamiliar to you, but it comes almost second nature. You notice Me-Gan at the chickens, spreading seed on the ground, a voice you recognise as Loti singing a little ditty out towards a smoking window, smelling strongly of delicious food.

A wolf head disappears over the wooden wall to the East, indicating that Mono is most likely seeking to hunt her own food for lunch. That is… not ideal, but honestly with the head start she has on you and the fact you don’t know the terrain it might be best to track her down later.

Landing on the next building you’re surprised to see Lita smoking a cigarette behind the chimney. It is of lesser quality, probably made up of leftovers from an actual cigarette. Clever girl can ration tobacco - but most interesting is the long black straw like holder she smokes it from, maybe she fancies herself one of those socialites.

“Fuck.” Is all she says as you land next to her, “Can’t even smoke in peace these days. If it’s not Trisha it’s Me-Gan and the one time nobody bothers me -”

“I land right next to you.” You drone.

“Yeah. Don’t you have bad guys or monsters to hunt?” She says taking a drag, face scowling at you as her lips wrap around the black plastic.

A cloud of smoke is blown into the air as you settle beside her on the roof. She makes a nonspecific grunt of irritation at your presence.

> [PRIDE] Want a decent smoke?
> [CURIOSITY] Not a fan of the other girls?
> [FRUSTRATION] I came to keep you in the loop
> Write-In
>>
>>1318630
>> [PRIDE] Want a decent smoke?
>>
>>1318634
this
>>
>>1318630


> [PRIDE] Want a decent smoke?
>>
>>1318630
>[PRIDE]
In case I'm not here during question time I want to ask her how likely it is for one siren to join in a show and completely change the song. Because if it ain't normal and he is just that strong a reality warper, eeek. Oh and how to snap singing sirens or other cast members out of it.
>>
5 minute warning.
>>
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>>1318685
>>1318645
>>1318639
>>1318634

You pop a hand into your pack and produce two sticks, “Want a decent smoke?” You mutter. This offer instantly gains you goodwill as Lita smiles for the first time you’ve seen. “One condition; don’t use that holder thing, actually taste it.”

The holder hits the tiles so quick you barely register the fancy lighter in her hand until it clicks twice. The small flickering flame ignites the cigarette and she breathes it in like it were Minerva’s own breath. “You’re cool right?” She says after reluctantly exhaling a puff of smoke. Gods damn, you’ve just finished lighting up on your hand. This chick is desperate for some tobacco.

“I’m not here to rat you out. I’m here to keep you alive.” You reassure her before trying to blow a smoke ring. The clouds seem to crawl by, but watching the cloister’s equivalent of hustle and bustle is definitely a scenic viewing for conversation.

“The Prof warns us these ruin our voices.” She snorts, “As if our voices aren’t bullshit, we sound however we want.” As if in answer she begins singing like an old Cadalonian man. “See? I can smoke as much as I want.”

“I won’t stop you.” You agree, letting the silence hang for a bit as you both enjoy long drags. “Think Switchwick might be using it to teach you discipline and resisting temptation.” You point out.

“Well fuck Switchwick’s lessons.” She spits, like actually spits on the tiles, “As much as I like to speak out, I never stepped out of line once.” She raises her finger to enunciate this, “Not.One Time. Blood’s never made me sneak off for a fuck, despite not having guards.” She takes another long drag, this bitch has almost finished already; “I’ve stayed in these same walls, nearly all of my life.” She finishes on a somber note.

> [CURIOSITY] Now that implies someone has stepped out of line
> [PRIDE] Hey, it’s hard being good. Trust me.
> [LUST] Is the frustration why you smoke even quicker than me?
> [JEALOUSY] Hey some chicks would kill for untold magic you know. (playful)
> Write-In
>>
>>1318748

> [JEALOUSY] Hey some chicks would kill for untold magic you know. (playful)
Cloud give us some leads?
Also not falling for that hona would be fisting us in rage
>>
>>1318748
>> [CURIOSITY] Now that implies someone has stepped out of line
Wonder who snuck off.
>>
>>1318748
>[CURIOSITY] Now that implies someone had stepped out of line
I feel like this might be pressing her a bit hard and she might clam up but these conversations are so fucking unwieldy i don't even care
>>
Guys I'm awake in 6 hours. So I'm tapping out too. Handler will either continue with Purps-o-vision or we'll switch over to Miranda.

Love you all.

>>1318774
What do you mean unwieldy? Please let me know so I can improve.

- Star
>>
>>1318778
Well because there are whole minutes between replies. If we were to hold a conversation like we would in RL, trying to gain a rapport and so on, it would take a whole session!
>>
>>1318748
>[CURIOSITY] Now that implies someone has stepped out of line
>>
>>1318810
M8, chill.
>>
>>1333511




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