>>1749044
>Throw David to the dogs (or in this case bitches) and let them decide which one of them gets him
>Prompt Keith to give his opinion
>Pick a girl you want to ride with
>I'll ride alone.

Truly we've entered a no win scenario. Too bad really, Girl 4 sounds cute.

>>1749044
>Prompt Keith to give his opinion
>Pick a girl you want to ride with
Maybe tell Lilly we'd like to ride with her, but if it's too much trouble...
>I'll ride alone.

>>1749044
>>Throw David to the dogs (or in this case bitches) and let them decide which one of them gets him
>Girl 3 (Lilly) probably has the best curves in the group on both counts. She's a brunette Hispanic with green eyes.

OOC: Gonna take some liberties with the response.
>>1749102
>>1749127
>Prompt Keith to give his opinion
"I'll go with Paula if that's fine with you all," he says.
Paula smiles and shares a tube with Keith. "I guess we tall people have to stick together, eh?" she winks. "See you shorties at the bottom."
>Throw David to the dogs (or in this case bitches) and let them decide which one of them gets him
You suggest that fair's fair, and since Keith suggested his tube partner, the girls get to do the same. They all look at David, partly of teasing, and his pupils dilate as he realizes he's being put on the spot. The boy mutters something under his breath, and one of them hears it.

>Pick a girl you want to ride with (sorta)
"Blondes?" Lilly laughs. "Well, in that case, I think I'll leave the little brother to you two." She steps up to you and holds out her tube. "Let's go. You would've been my first choice, but it was his first time."

As you step up to the tube chute, you see David begging you with body language to give him an out. A twinge of guilt sinks into your chest, and you quickly and subtly point to Gabby, who seems like the cuter of the two in your mind.

Before you can see what happens next, you're in the slide with Lilly. She is in the front and leans back on you, which you don't really object to. You twist through the dark tubes of the Monster, and gain momentum. At some of the turns and tiny dips, Lilly lets out tiny gasps of surprise. At the end, you two are launched out and crash into the pool on the bottom end of the slide.

You're drenched, and blink water out of your eyes as Lilly laughs and steps aside. You take the tube aside and wait for David and Gabby. Keith and Paula sit nearby on a concrete barrier near the pool. When the two get down, the impact takes a surprising route: David is sitting in the front, and his end dives into the pool with unexpected force, causing him to slip out and Gabby to shriek as she and the tube accidentally slide over him.

As he tries to remove the water from his ears, Abigail comes in last, alone. It takes you a bit, as you're admiring the girls, but someone approaches you from behind and taps you on the shoulder. It's Donna, and Sofia is next to her. They're both surprised four girls are with the three of you.
"Well, you seem to be popular," Donna snickers. "We're getting lunch. Wanna come with?"

"I think they've already got company," Sofia sighs, and waves Price away. "We should leave them be."

"Who are they?" Lilly asks, a little curious and a little suspicious. "Come on, there's more stuff to do."

>>We're getting lunch
>(Donna) We already got something to eat earlier.
>(Lilly) Friends from school.
>(Lilly) She's just a jealous ex, ignore her.
>(Lilly) She's Keith's sister.
>(Donna) Eh, I could eat more, and Keith definitely could. Wait up!
>(Sofia) No need to be so passive-aggressive about it.
><Write-In>

>>1749254
FUCK NINJA'D
At least I got the girl right.

>>1749266
>(Donna) We already got something to eat earlier.
>(Lilly) Friends from school.

It's all about to come tumbling down isn't it

>>1749266
>(Donna) We already got something to eat earlier.
>(Lilly) Friends from school.

>>1749303
>>1749323
>(Donna) We already got something to eat earlier.
>(Lilly) Friends from school.
Donna nods and walks off with Carrollo, while your explanation to Lilly causes her to look to Keith to verify it.
"Yeah, she's the vice president of sorts of a club we're in- Solomon is the president. So she's just being neurotic as always." Thankfully, Keith's inability to grasp the meaning of Sofia's cold shoulder works in your favor.

"Well, that's not all of it," David says, and you brace yourself for feminine rage. "She's a bit... What's the word for it... Tuh... Tuh suh...?" He shakes his head. "Sorry, I was looking for a word. What I mean is people joke they're attracted to each other, but they argue too much for that to be true."

You prevent yourself from correcting him when Lilly shrugs and accepts this. "I get that. You probably get rumors just from being President and Vice President." You feel as though your honesty has saved you some possible grief.

Paula laughs. "Well, I think we have enough time to ride again before it rains, I figure. The clouds are getting pretty heavy, though."

After the next ride on the Shining Armor, where David is handed over to Gabbie, you move over to the surfboarding machine on Keith's recommendation. In contrast to his slip on the slide, David takes to boarding very quickly. Lilly ends up wiping out and quits, and you're about to find something else to do when thunder cracks.

"Aw, what?" Keith looks up with anger, and holds out a hand to see a raindrop fall into it. "That's bullshit!"
He clenches a fist, and the girls shake their heads.

"I guess we have to leave now." Paula puts her phone next to yours, and some numbers move over to it. "If you ever stop by Greenglades, call ahead."

(SUCCESSFULLY GOT BABE NUMBERS)
(OPERATION BABE HUNT A SUCCESS)

The girls hide under their towels as the rain intensifies, and Keith shields his head. "Damn, that started to come down fast! Let's get to cover!"

---

When you get back to your meeting spot, the four girls you met are nowhere to be seen. Ruth, Donna, and Sofia are drenched and under their towels. Donna's teeth are chattering. "Damn, it got cold all of a sudden. What now?"

"Didn't you say that your family's house was around here?" Ruth asks Sofia. "We could stop there like you suggested."

"Yes," Sofia says. "But I only brought a change of clothes for myself. We should head back to Olympia by bus."

"No way are we crapping out," Keith declares. "Paid forty dollars for this, more for the food. The rain's gotta let up soon, it came on so fast."

David seems to be looking somewhere else.

>>Under Cover
>We'll wait it out.
>Let's go back to Olympia and stay there.
>Let's go back to Olympia and get a change of clothes, then head to the Carrollo's.
>Let's go to the Carrollo's.
>Follow David's gaze
>(Keith) We got our money's worth.
>(David) Blondes, huh?
>(Donna) You get cold easily, don't you?
>(Sofia/Ruth) What were you two doing?
><Write-In>

>>1749491
>>Follow David's gaze
>(David) Blondes, huh?

>>1749491
>Follow David's gaze
>(David) Blondes, huh?

>>1749516
>>1749530
>Follow David's gaze
You follow the line of sight of your 'little brother' until it falls on a woman (blonde, natch) who's wearing a straw hat, dress, and dress shoes, as if she were here simply to walk around and socialize rather than go in the water.

!

She's smoking hot, no wonder she's grabbed his attention. Blue eyes, not much older-looking than twenty, and a perfectly-proportioned face without any blemishes. The mystery woman smiles as she talks to a brunette and redhead, both as stunning or more than she is. The brunette seems to be complaining about the rain, and the redhead calming her down, but it's all you can do to not continue the babe hunt then and there.

>(David) Blondes, huh?
You break him out of his lovestruck trance with a coy question and a raised eyebrow. Luckily, your sister is a brunette, so you don't have to worry about that, you suppose.
When he registers the comment, he turns his eyes to the ground and blushes furiously. "Well, I... I guess."

Sofia, who is blonde herself, glares at you. "What have you been teaching him? Solomon..." She scrunches up her nose.

"Hey, if you really want him to stay un-corrupted, keep him away from Donna," Ruth chuckles. Price jabs her friend in the ribs.

"Enough of that," Keith demands, scratching his scalp. "I don't know when the next bus shows up, so we'll have to make a decision now. I figure if we stay too late, we can always stop at the Carrollo's overnight."

The rain doesn't look like it's going to let up anytime soon, and it's about halfway through the afternoon.
>>Decision time
>We'll wait it out. Keith's right, we have the Carrollo's as a backup.
>Let's go back to Olympia. It's getting close to dinner, right? We can figure things out from there.
>Let's go to the Carrollo's. You have some imperishables there, right?
>Sorry, Keith, a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do. David, back me up here. (Speak to the hot women)
><Write-In>

>>1749652
>>Let's go back to Olympia. It's getting close to dinner, right? We can figure things out from there.

>>1749652
>Let's go back to Olympia. It's getting close to dinner, right? We can figure things out from there.

>>1749676
>>1749750
>>Let's go back to Olympia. It's getting close to dinner, right? We can figure things out from there.

You put aside your distraction and prepare to head back. After stepping on the bus, you take a seat next to the other guys and listen to the rain pour down on the roof. David looks out the window, trying not to be distracted by the women as they board as well.

The redheaded woman looks over your group for a second, and her judgemental gaze reminds you of Mr. Bennett staring you over in class when you ask a sarcastic question. However, she ultimately smiles and looks away.

---

You get back, and change into something more dry in your room. When you meet up in the entertainment center, everyone is in casualwear as well.
Keith is in jeans and a black shirt, Sofia in a blouse and knee-length dress, Ruth in torn jeans and the Tye-dye shirt you met her in, David in a white shirt and grey shorts, and Donna in sweat pants and a worn hoodie.

Keith is idly playing video games with Ruth when you show up.

Sofia points to a cooler near her feet, which is filled with various ingredients. "If we're headed to my family's house, I believe I can cook some of my mother's Chicken Parmesan."

"I'd like to try that," David replies with a chipper grin.

>>The Carrollo family residence
>Count me in.
>Not tonight, it's still raining.
>I'll help you cook. You're already hosting, no need to make you work alone.
>Bring extra, Keith's coming.
><Write-In>

>>1749836
>>Count me in.
>Bring extra, Keith's coming.

>>1749836
>I'll help you cook. You're already hosting, no need to make you work alone.
>Bring extra, Keith's coming.

>>1749848
>>1749864
>Count me in.
>I'll help you cook. You're already hosting, no need to make you work alone.
Carrollo shifts a bit, crossing her arms. She's touched by the gesture, and eventually nods. "Just don't screw it up, okay?" she teases.
>Bring extra, Keith's coming.
"I already have," she indicates. "This serves eight."

"Finally, things are looking up," Allan pumps his fist.

---

You all take the bus again, and after a short walk under umbrellas, you make your way to the Carrollo house. The six of you make your way in and set the cooking materials down. The house smells like a new apartment with a hint of dust, so they've obviously been taking good care of it.

"This is great," Ruth walks over to the stone fireplace in the den and looks in to see the logs inside. "How often does your family live here?" Two loveseats and a small couch surround the glass table in front of the fireplace.

"Not very often," Carrollo admits. "Usually we rent it out, but the man that paid for it hasn't shown up. The utilities are still paid for, so there's that. There are some board games in the hall closet if you want to look for them."

She points at you. "You offered to help, I'm holding you to it. Come on," she waves, and lays out the ingredients. While you wait for her instructions, you notice an area where the wall was fixed in a tiny spot around head height. You also realize this could be a good occasion to get to know her better.

>>Cooking (Roll 2d10+2)
>You obviously cook a lot, so why are you going to Home Ec if you already know all this?
>That reminds me, how are the socks coming along? I have the money if they're done.
>You said this was your mother's recipe? What was she like?
>Hey, what's with this fix in the wall here?
>Who rented this place out again?
><Write-In>

Rolled 7, 7 + 2 = 16 (2d10 + 2)

>>1749958
>Who rented this place out again?
>Hey, what's with this fix in the wall here?

>>1749981
>Who rented this place out again?
>Hey, what's with this fix in the wall here?
"Some buisinessman, I never heard who exactly. My father said he was supposed to show up over a month ago but the renter put it off. So basically it's here waiting for him to show up. I just need to make sure it's clean in time for his use." She points to some breading. "Coat the chicken when I hand it to you, would you?"
>Hey, what's with this fix in the wall here?
She looks at it, and her face falls. "I, well... " One of her hands shakes. "My mother..." she wipes away a tear and asks you, "I'll tell you later, just.. let me tell you alone."

---

The others pull out a game of Sorry as you and Sofia prepare the chicken and some salad for consumption. It's getting fairly dim outside due to the clouds and rain when a chill shoots up your spine at an unexpected sound.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cS1dr3_COBM

"Is that a car engine?" David stands up with a bolt. "Who would be coming at this hour?"

"Oh shit," Keith says. "Now's a really bad time for that guy to decide to show up."

Sofia freezes up in complete terror, and doesn't speak at all. When someone moves to the door, she bolts from the kitchen and flees in silent horror, knocking over part of the game board in her hurry.

Donna tries to catch the fleeing girl but fails. "Hey, Sofia!" She stares back at the door. "What could cause her to be so scared?"

Ruth, seeing the fear in Carrollo's eyes, goes after her to comfort her, looking to the guys in the party. "I don't know what's going on, but if you have your weapons, prepare them."

David crouches in preparation to dash at the door. Keith quietly removes a set of brass knuckles from his back pocket. "Solomon, you have your gun?" Donna tries to look for something to use and eventually picks up a small decoration, prepared to lob it if need be.
There's a faux sword over the fireplace. It's better than nothing in a pinch.

>>Sudden Crisis?
>Go after Sofia and Ruth
>Prepare your gun
>You don't have your gun, pick up the sword.
>You don't have your gun, pick up one of the cutting knives.
>Look for something else
>I know who's coming in, he doesn't mean us harm. <Write-In who>
><Write-In>

>>1750078
>You don't have your gun, pick up one of the cutting knives.

This is getting interesting.

>>1750092
>You don't have your gun, pick up one of the cutting knives.
You pick up one of the knives and prepare to lob it if need be. However, when the key turns and bolt unlocks, the figure you see shove the door open and step inside is...
Not too much taller than Donna, actually. He's an old blonde man in a nice suit and hat smoking a cigar. Looking in, he stares at all of you with amusement.

"I guess I couldn't have expected anything else given the lights are on." He puts his hands up. "Not here to break up your little shindig, so long as the Carrollo kid is in charge."
He grunts. "Well, this puts a lid on having drinks with dinner."

Keith pales and puts his brass knuckles back in his pocket as quickly as possible. David stands at attention. Donna looks at both of them in confusion, and asks Keith, "Who is this guy again?"

Allan nearly slaps her, and with gritted teeth, relays to her, "That's Robert Clover, you... You dumb broad!" He nods to Clover. "Yeah, she was just... surprised."
The owner of the Clover building, one of the biggest entrepreneurs to call Texas or even the US home. Some people thought he was even going to run for President, but he never did.

Robert takes a smoke from the cigar he's holding. "Dammit, didn't think about scaring her, that was stupid of me. Any of you see an ashtray around here?"

---

After a bit of explaining, it becomes clear that this man is in fact who he says he is, and the renter. He polishes off a Moscow Mule of his own make and then locks the liquor cabinet back up.
Sofia is very thankful to know that it was the mogul who stepped in and not someone else. "I'm so sorry, I simply thought it was..."

She looks at the ground, and Robert nods. "I sympathize, I truly do. They also killed my son."*

"They?" Ruth looks between Carrollo and Clover. "Who do you mean?"

"The Milani crime family," Clover puffs to the side. "Bunch of thugs that keep the Mafia's teeth sunk in this city. I've been trying to clear them outta Crescent City for years, with only moderate success."
You finish up and kick off the chicken, because Sofia is in no condition to continue cooking. Nobody knows how to continue the conversation.

>>The Milani Crime Family
>So the fix in the wall ...was a bullet hole?
>Sofia...
>What do they do, exactly?
>They killed your son?
>That's a lie. They may have killed her mother, but not your son. <Explain Why>
><Write-In>

>>1750186
*See http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/1655161/ post number 1660103!

>>1750186
>What do they do, exactly?
>They killed your son?
Probably best to play dumb right now really

>>1750205
I'm sure the reveal for who Aurelius is or was is gonna be super fucking obvious. Technically, anyone who's played the game from the beginning and read both phone calls can determine who he is.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYYvOmpJtv0
>What do they do, exactly?
"Laundering money, prostitution, illegal gambling, smuggling substances, hire out their guys as hitmen, loan sharking, general intimidation. Sometimes they harass new businesses to try and force their foot in the door." He frowns. "That's probably what happened to Mrs. Carrollo."
>They killed your son?
Clover stares at his glass. "Never found the body, so technically I can't prove jack shit, but I think so. The Milani brothers broke his legs when he was at Olympia to try and intimidate me. He took it like a champ, all things considered, but... I guess they decided that that wasn't enough."

"Holy shit," Donna says soberly. "You know, you see mobsters in movies, but you never think they actually kill people..."

"Well, they do, kid," Clover looks at his watch. "It's too late to head back safely at this hour. Technically, I'm the 'owner' for the moment, but if you don't grudge me a seat at table, I'll let you all stay overnight. Just don't get up to any antics, will you? Call it a camping trip."

---

You all eat the Parmesan chicken, and everyone seems to be enjoying it. The rain pours outside. Now that it's raining thundering in earnest, you feel invigorated.
(Your Technique has improved!)

Mr. Clover eventually goes to bed in the master bedroom, locking the door behind him. Everyone else tries to figure out where to go from there. Sofia had her own room in the past, where the girls are intending on sleeping, and there are several blankets you can use to fall asleep by the fire David started on Richard's request. Everyone seems to be contemplating recent events. Sofia sits outside on the covered porch, watching the rain.


>>Approaching nightfall.
>Speak to someone <Write-In>
>Suggest a board game
>Sit by the fire
>Prepare to go to bed
>Go outside to watch the rain
><Write-In>

OOC: Last question of the night. May reply to this tomorrow and be late to show up tomorrow.

>>1750258
Oh fuck that should be Robert, not Richard, I really am too tired.

>>1750258
And Technique should be Proficiency, but I'm sure you've figured that out too.

>>1750258
>>Go outside to watch the rain

>>1750629
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIPan-rEQJA
>Go outside to watch the rain

Sofia is sitting on one of the chairs, apparently dry. The rain continues to pour down as she sits and stares off into the distance. When she hears the door open, she looks at you for a few seconds, before staring into her lap.
Carrollo tries to say something more than once, but chokes up before she can finish. You're not sure what she wants to tell you, but you can tell she's really conflicted at the moment.

Your mind clears as you stare into the storm. Lightning strikes in the distance, and the flash dances over your eyes for a half-second before the thunder hits.The porch provides some cover, but the wind is extremely strong, and Sofia's dress shifts slightly in it.

Sofia seems to be expecting you to say something.

>>Staring into the rain
>"This reminds me of the bookstore."
>"Thanks for the food."
>"Do you want to talk about it?"
>Say nothing and let her speak
>Walk into the rain
><Write-In>

>>1752374
>>"Do you want to talk about it?"

>>1752374
>Say nothing and let her speak

>>1752374
>>"Do you want to talk about it?"

>>1752429
>>1752419
>>1752453
>"Do you want to talk about it?"

The girl in the blouse hesitates for a bit before nodding. "...I always got the impression my Mom enjoyed being the wife of my father more than she enjoyed being my mother." Sofia closes her eyes. "I don't think she hated me, but I think... I think there was a bit of the natural resentment you'd expect, given my already-busy father now had to split his attention between her and me."

"The one thing I regret... I regretted not being able to learn more about her. That I couldn't become closer to her." Carrollo chokes up. "I wanted us to be a real family. And then they came to the house, looking to speak to my father, and she told me to hide."

After a few seconds, Sofia begins sobbing. "They argued, and one of them shot her before fleeing. I called for an ambulance, but it was too late..." She's crying deeply, her hands covering her face. "Now I'll never know..." Sniffling, she looks up, and adds angrily, "I hope those mobsters are behind all this so I can get justice for this, and everyone else they've trampled!" Her face is covered in tearstains.

>>Sofia's justice
>I don't think they are, but I hope we can stop them anyways.
>I know this is important to you, but you don't need to run after revenge.
>We've got your back for this. You don't need to fight this alone.
>Maybe we can ask Mr. Clover for help. He had it out for them, too.
><Write-In>

>>1752515
>>Maybe we can ask Mr. Clover for help. He had it out for them, too.

>>1752515
>We've got your back for this. You don't need to fight this alone.
>Maybe we can ask Mr. Clover for help. He had it out for them, too.

>>1752526
>>1752535
>Maybe we can ask Mr. Clover for help. He had it out for them, too.
"Yes." She smiles weakly. "I wonder why Donna had all those awful things to say about him. He's quite polite." Sofia shrugs. "But I suppose someone with his level of affluence has to be to keep friends around. I suppose we can find out his true character by his actions."

>We've got your back for this. You don't need to fight this alone.
"Thanks." Sofia wipes her face and stands up. "Sorry for spilling my heart out on you like that. I must look really stupid right now."

She approaches you and gives you a short hug, before going to the door. You can hear sudden movement from within, and see someone dash away from the window. Sofia shoves the door open with a sudden movement and picks up on the fact that Keith and Donna are hurrying to sit down.

"It was her idea," Allan points to the short girl.

"You were eavesdropping?" Carrollo shrieks, and strides over to Price, picking the smaller girl up. "The nerve of you!"

Still wearing her unusual glasses, Donna struggles in Sofia's iron grip. "Hey, put me down!"

Sofia ignores the tiny blows Donna rains on her back and drags Price outside before setting the skinny girl down in the rain. Then she points at Keith with an authoritative hiss. "Get out there. I'm not picking you up."

"But I..." he protests, before reeling back when Carrollo points more deliberately.

"GET."

---

After the lady of the house is convinced to relent by Ruth, the two troublemakers are let back inside and huddle by the fire.

"Donna, we're sleeping in Sofia's room," Florez offers, still warm and dry. "You should head over before it gets too late, so we can lock the door."

"I'll wait until I don't feel like a damp dog," Price whines. "Go ahead, I'll lock the door when I go in."

"If you insist," the fortune-teller shakes her head. "We'll be awake for a bit longer, but don't take too long."

After Ruth's out of earshot, Donna puts on her trademark evil smirk. "And you know what this means, don't you?"

"I don't get it," Evelake shakes his head.

>>You know what this means, don't you?
>Pranks?
>(Innocently) What do you mean, Donna?
>As much as I would enjoy a panty raid, this is hardly the time.
>I'm gonna talk to Ruth and Sofia. You three have fun.
>You keep David out of this.
>I'm listening...
><Write-In>

>>1752667
>>(Innocently) What do you mean, Donna?

>>1752667
>Fuck this I'm going to bed

>>1752667
>As much as I would enjoy a panty raid, this is hardly the time.

>>1752675
>>1752678
>(Innocently) What do you mean, Donna?
"Oh, don't play dumb. That crotchety old man is sawing logs right about now. All we have to do is wait for the other two to go to bed and-"

>As much as I would enjoy a panty raid, this is hardly the time.
"Yeah, I'm not doing anything you've cooked up at this moment," Keith agrees, yawning. "And I'm not sleeping while you're awake with that attitude."

"Oh come on, we don't need to do anything big, just something that sends a message," the tiny girl crosses her arms.

"I think it would be beyond inconsiderate to our hostess, considering everything she's done," David is firm on this.

"Come on, she threw me out in the rain. Something harmless."

>Fuck this I'm going to bed
You lie down on one of the loveseats, throw a blanket over yourself, and slip out of consciousness while listening to Donna huff and puff before walking out.

---
(For visiting the Carrollo summer house, your Charm has increased moderately (+2: 4/7 -> 6/7 to advance))
---

You wake up to a calm house. The rain has finally let up, and it's sunny outside, so you shrug the blanket off of you and look around. David is also sleeping in one of the loveseats, and Keith is sprawled out on the couch, snoring heavily.

Ruth is the first of the girls to wake up, and almost greets you before silently waving to prevent the others from waking up prematurely. You should be able to take the bus back to Olympia without too much trouble. Mr. Clover is likely still asleep, so it would be best to speak to him later. After cleaning up after yourselves, your leave quietly. You get an odd look from the bus driver on the way back, but otherwise no problems occur.

"You guys are bigger pussies than I am," Donna comments to Keith and David as she rides back.

"That's categorically incorrect, given neither of us-" David starts, but Keith is still too tired to argue and slumps on the window.

The rest of the weekend and Monday pass in a blur.
EARLY MORNING, Tuesday, September 4th (Weather: Sunny. Forecast for tomorrow: Sunny.)
>>Blue Day Schedule:
>Social Studies
>Home Economics
>Theater
>Baseball

Shocked out of your dreaming, you focus on the fact that the convention is this weekend and you have tests next week. Donna's sent you a text, but for what you're not sure.

>>Morning Business
>Read Donna's text
>Meet up with someone before school
>Take some time in the morning to buy something from a school store
>Buy a snack/drink from one of the vending machines
>Try to get to breakfast early and see if they have anything special today
>Check Anonymouse
><Write-In>

>>1752694
Thought for sure I mentioned this one.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsUUr22n8N4

>>1752822
>>Read Donna's text
>Try to get to breakfast early and see if they have anything special today

>>1752822
>Read Donna's text
>Check Anonymouse

>>1752830
>>1752835
>Check Anonymouse
>ANON: Nip businessmen deaths were called stress-based heart attacks.
>ANON: GRORIOUS WORK ETHIC
>ANON: Who gives a shit, we're getting Feather Pink at one of the main convention events
>ANON: Waifufags I fucking swear
>ANON: She's playing the mentor, nigga, not one of the main members.
>ANON: HAHAHA OLD AND BUSTED
>ANON: Argusfags BTFO
>ANON: How many dicks do you think she's sucked to get this far? 37?
>ANON: DELET ARGUS-SAMA IS PURE
>ANON: PURE

>Try to get to breakfast early and see if they have anything special today
They have some sort of special coffee in the cafeteria. You won't be able to take it with you, but it feels like your chest hair is growing out just drinking a cup.
(Your Courage has increased moderately! (+2: 3/7 -> 5/7 to advance))

>Read Donna's text
>DONNA: yer a nerd 2, ryt?
>DONNA: I was 1dering if u were gng2 da convention, m/b we cud go 2ge4 w/others.
>DONNA: Sum srta cordinated csply

>>Donna's Text
>Type in English, woman.
>Cosplay? More like no way.
>I already have a cosplay idea, but we'll need more than us for it.
>What did you have in mind?
><Write-In>

>>1752941
>>What did you have in mind?

>>1752941
>What did you have in mind?
>As long as it's not a Neo Featherman group cosplay I can bet there's going to be at least 3 group cosplay of them.

>>1752954
>>1752963
>What did you have in mind?
>As long as it's not a Neo Featherman group cosplay I can bet there's going to be at least 3 group cosplay of them.

>DONNA: wat no wai
>DONNA: u evr plaid ultra fantasy?
>DONNA: I'm a rel fan, and I thout...

You start to like this train of thought, and trade texts back and forth before class starts. Maybe you can convince your parents to send you that Ultra Greatsword you bought a while back. Your favorite protagonist used it to slay the Void Lord in Ultra Fantasy IV... the best one.

In Social Studies, the teacher calls on you, breaking you out of your buzz of thought. He lazily tilts back and points at you.
"What was the original capital of the United States? The OG capital of the US."

>>Original US Capital
>We New Yorkers have the best claim.
>Washington DC, duh.
>Philadelphia.
>Uh, there were a bunch of capitals, like NINE of them.
><Write-In>

>>1753078
>>We New Yorkers have the best claim.

>>1753078
>We New Yorkers have the best claim.

>>1753101
>>1753117
>We New Yorkers have the best claim.
The teacher looks confused for a second before nodding.
"Oh, right... Yeah, man, I get your meaning." He speaks to the class.
"Ya see, I shoulda made this more clear. What I shoulda asked was when the first Continental Congress assembled, because that would be in Philadelphia, under the Declaration of Independence. But, like, the first capital under the Constitution was in New York Federal Hall. So you're right, kinda."

(Your Knowledge has increased! (+2: 6/7 -> 7/7!))
(Your Knowledge has increased to Advanced- Well-Read! (+3: 1/15 to advance))

You spend your time in Home Ec trying to balance a more complicated budget, and get really close. There's about fifty dollars that you're not sure how to split between the leftover luxuries when time is called.

(Your Proficiency has increased! (+2: 4/7 -> 5/7 to advance))

Now, it's back to Theater, and when you step in, Donna is eager to speak to you.
"So you like Ultra Fantasy Four, right? I prefer Five myself, but it's a matter of taste."

Ruth is confused by this sudden train of thought. "Why are you talking about Ultra Fantasy? We have a play to prepare for. And Seven is obviously the best."

>>We have a play to prepare for. And Seven is obviously the best.
>(Donna) Ruth's right, the play comes first.
>(Donna) We'll talk about this at length after my baseball practice. We can get dinner and stuff.
>(Ruth) We're doing a group cosplay. You in?
>(Ruth) Spoken like a true casual.
><Write-In>

>>1753204
>(Ruth) We're doing a group cosplay. You in?

>>1753204
I assume everyone fell asleep and I will to I guess. Night Judge

>>1753211
>>(Ruth) We're doing a group cosplay. You in?

"I don't see why not," she shrugs. "It's just like acting, right? It'll be good practice."

"Yeah, just don't get too into character," Donna grumbles. "We should get some stuff after school."

---
>>1753287
I'll call it a night, then, was waiting on a second poster.
Good night, I'll try to get the prompt up soon.
I'll be back ~ 9PM Central as usual.

>>1753297

You work on the play, practicing your speaking and positioning. Ruth is doing quite well, as familiar as she is with performing, and you do your best to keep up with her. Even Donna practices memorizing lines and performing them, and you feel like the class is helping all of you.

(Your Charm has increased! (+2: 6/7 -> 7/7!))
(Your Charm has increased to Advanced- Speaking Part! (+3: 0/15 to advance))

When the bell rings, you change for baseball practice.

---

The heat is grueling, but you manage to keep up. You're even given a few chances to practice your pitching.
The coach calls you all in, makes a few general comments, then informs you all. "Alright, listen up. We're going to have some games coming up, so I want you all to be ready. We've got one more week after this one to get our shit together, so from now on, we have a short scrimmage at the end of every other practice, instead of endurance drills."

You nod. This could be your chance to prove yourself first-string material.

After a few more question-answers from various players, Moore jerks his thumb back. "Alright, that's it. Hit the showers."

As the coach walks away, Martinez steps off to talk to you and Keith. He looks apologetic.
"Look, uh... Sorry for being an asshole, I guess?" The former star athlete is obviously unused to apologizing.

>>Sorry for being an asshole
>Apology accepted.
>Just play for the team, man.
>When's your next football game? We'll go.
>Are you happy playing baseball?
>Let's go, Keith.
><Write-In>

>>1755529
>>Apology accepted.
>>Just play for the team, man.

>>1755529
>Apology accepted.
>Just play for the team, man.
>Discreetly ask anyone if they know when Matinez's next game is and show up.

File: The Hero.png (50 KB, 500x500)

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>>1755539
>>1755546
>Apology accepted.
>Just play for the team, man.
"Yeah, I know." He nods, taking off his cap apologetically. "Just getting used to playing with everyone else. My last team wasn't so, I dunno... friendly. Guess I let that blind my judgement."

Keith also agrees, clenching a fist. "Leave it in the past. We're a buncha badasses, so don't worry about not getting the chance to show off. Those guys won't know what hit them."

Martinez chuckles. "I forget, do they have a mercy rule at this level?"

"Maybe they should implement one," Allan punches into his other hand. "Someone's gonna need it."

The tension that was present last time you spoke to him completely vanishes, and you feel your relationship with the baseball team and especially Martinez has grown stronger.

Greedy man, thou seek to take hold of the power to confront the world's challenges?
Very well... The gift of the Hero is yours.
Whether your quest shall give rise to victory or defeat is to be seen...
...I will be here at the end of your path.
(You have awakened to a bond with Martinez, the Hero. You feel as though you will find kinship with Myths like him.)

Keith is the first to break off. "Sorry, gotta go. I'm starving." You leave and change as well, saying goodbye to Martinez before heading off.

>Discreetly ask anyone if they know when Matinez's next game is and show up.
"Football?" One of the catchers rolls his shoulder to stretch it. "Next Friday, after the tests. I hear they're up against some real cream puffs, though. We've blown them out every year I can remember."

---

You remember your arrangement with Donna, and meet her at the train station heading into Crescent City. Ruth is with her.
"Good afternoon," Florez waves.

As you get on board the train, Donna decides to ask you more about your hometown to pass the time. "You're from New York, right? What do you like the most about it? Just curious."

>>What do you like the most about New York?
>The people. I had some good friends there.
>There's always something new going on.
>It's my home. Do I need to say any more?
>The performing arts. Broadway is the best.
>Never really thought about it.
>I didn't really like New York that much, to be honest. I prefer Crescent City.
><Write-In>

>>1755601
>>There's always something new going on.

>>1755601
>The Food
>There's always something new going on.
>But mostly the food

>>1755606
>>1755609
>The Food
>There's always something new going on.
Donna smiles. "With a city that big, I'd be more surprised if there wasn't." She leans back and forth, daydreaming. "I wanna go there and get some good photos some day."

Ruth encourages her friend. "Maybe we can all go during a break, if Solomon's okay with being our tour guide."

>But mostly the food
You go on a small tirade about where to find the best hot dogs in the Big Apple... and the best burgers... and the best pizza...

Florez, who's choking back laughter, stops you halfway through an impromptu haiku praising a donut shop. "Okay, we get it. Sprinkle-covered donuts are the best."

"You sound like Keith, going on about food like that." Price shakes her head. "Our stop is coming up. Come on, there's a costume shop people use for Halloween and everything else, they've got just about everything."

---

She stops you in front of a beat-up red brick store on the worse side of town. Florez doesn't seem too comfortable walking around here, but since there are three of you it's unlikely you'll be accosted. Donna confidently steps inside, yelling out, "Yo, Bill! We need some stuff for Ultra Fantasy cosplaying." You see costumes of all types lining the walls. This place is huge, and has everything from common superheroes to really obscure games and even sexy costumes. Cosplay-themed weapons and other trinkets are under and behind the glass counter.

A dark-skinned man wearing a blue windbreaker steps up to the counter, and holds up his hands in thanks. "Dear Lord, finally. If I have to deal with one more vaping nerd with BO asking about Featherman costumes I'm gonna fucking flip. We're all out, by the way. Tiny kid got the last green one." He raises an eyebrow when he sees you. "New kid on the block?"

>>New kid on the block?
>Yeah, nice place you've got here.
>Have you got the protagonist's gear for Ultra Fantasy Four?
>Are those real weapons back there?
>(Donna/Ruth) What were you two playing as again?
>Tiny kid? What did he look like?
><Write-In>

>>1755648
>Yeah, nice place you've got here.
>Have you got the protagonist's gear for Ultra Fantasy Four?
>(To Donna) Told you Neo Featherman would be popular

>>1755648
>>Yeah, nice place you've got here.
>Are those real weapons back there?

>>1755653
>>1755656
>Yeah, nice place you've got here.
"I try." Bill leans back in a ragged faux-leather swivel chair.

>Have you got the protagonist's gear for Ultra Fantasy Four?
The owner whistles. "I haven't gotten a request for that in half a decade. Some guy handmade a perfect replica for himself, about your size, traded it for store credit. It'll put you back $85, comes with the sword. Pretty nifty, it'll even deflect blows."

>Are those real weapons back there?
He rolls his eyes. "Please. You stick a tin can on the end of a plank and it's a 'real' weapon. Just don't go trying to murder people, it looks bad."

>(To Donna) Told you Neo Featherman would be popular
"Oh, shut up," she jabs you in the side. It doesn't hurt at all. "As for me, I'm looking for Five's female lead."

The costume salesman coughs. "I dunno about that. I've seen it, it's a bit... Risky. You sure you want it? Seventy-five bucks."

"I'm sure I'm sure." Donna nods decisively.

"Okay, your decision." Bill points at Ruth. "You too?"

"The healer from Seven," Florez declares.

"Pretty popular," the owner laughs. "I've got a bunch, ranging from really good but really expensive to fifty bucks."

>>Current Cash: $320.00
>I already have an Ultra Greatsword. What's the price without?
>I'll take it. (Pay $85)
>A used costume? Sounds like it's worth a little less than that. (Charm: Roll 2d10+3)
>I'd like to buy some other stuff (Buy weapons and armor)
>(Ruth/Donna) I'll pay for your costume, if you want.
><Write-In>

>>1755712
>>I already have an Ultra Greatsword. What's the price without?

>>1755712
>I'll take it. (Pay $85)

>>1755712
>I already have an Ultra Greatsword. What's the price without?

>>1755718
>>1755717
>>1755725
>>I already have an Ultra Greatsword. What's the price without?
"Sixty-five. The sword's wood, not metal, but this guy took the time on it. The armor is top-notch, could probably go for more, though it needs a wash. Getting it here cuts the price in half, approximately."
You know your Ultra Greatsword is metal, but it may not get here in time.

>>To Sword or not to Sword
>No sword. I've paid for it already, I'll risk it getting here on time. (Pay $65)
>I'll take the sword. Better safe than sorry. (Pay $85)
>Let's make a deal... (Charm, 2d10+3) <Write-In>
><Write-In>

>>1755751
>>I'll take the sword. Better safe than sorry. (Pay $85)

>>1755751
>No sword. I've paid for it already, I'll risk it getting here on time. (Pay $65)

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>1755758 (1)
>>1755761 (2)
Unless the third vote appears.

>>1755779
Ain't it exiting not knowing whether it will get here in time or not

>>1755758
>>1755761
>No sword. I've paid for it already, I'll risk it getting here on time. (Pay $65)
You're not sure whether you'll be able to get your Ultra Greatsword here in time, given how the mail from New York to Crescent City may take a few days, but it's a risk you're willing to take. That sword cost you more than this costume did, and it's hefty enough to put holes in walls or heads if need be. Maybe you could use it during the Witching Hour.

Once you fork over the money, you wait for the owner to drag it out. In the mean time, Donna changes into the costume she bought in one of the rooms.

Stepping out, she presents herself to you and Ruth. "What do you think?"

She's baring her midriff, her arms, her legs, and the collar dips dangerously low. There are a couple of folds in the front. You're not sure this costume was meant for her size.

Ruth, who's wearing a less fanservice-based costume, is at a loss, but ultimately says, "You really look like the character."

When you change into your own costume, you test the size. It fits perfectly.
(Got Protagonist Armor (+1 Proficiency when worn in battle))

---

Once everyone's paid for their purchases and changed back into casual clothing, Price hops outside happily.
"Thanks for coming along, Solomon." The tiny girl looks out over the city. "Hey, but I was serious about going to New York one day, you know."

Ruth thinks for a second, before asking, "I know this may seem rude, but wouldn't most people consider this the bad side of town? Why do you come here?"

"Because people are people," Donna says. "I mean, Keith looks like a meathead, but he's surprisingly smart, even if he is a bit of a dope." She pulls out a small camera. "The most important part of taking photos is showing people what they haven't already seen. Giving them new information. Challenging them with the truth."
She points at the store. "I mean, would you go here if I didn't show you?"

"I guess not," Ruth admits. "I never thought about it like that."

>>Would you go here if I didn't show you?
>You're right. It's more important to learn about new people than to live a safe life.
>I think you can find enough novelty just looking at the people around you.
>I would have found it sooner or later.
>If you want to see new places, I'm heading back home for Christmas break. Want me to bring back photos?
>I prefer not getting mugged by the Milani, thanks.
><Write-In>

>>1755827
>If you want to see new places, I'm heading back home for Christmas break. Want me to bring back photos?
>Think we could wear these in the Witching Hour it'd be dope

>>1755827
>If you want to see new places, I'm heading back home for Christmas break. Want me to bring back photos?
>I didn't expect so much philosophy from you. But it was cool.

>>1755827
That's gonna be my last vote for now. Good night Judge

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>>1755834
>>1755843
>If you want to see new places, I'm heading back home for Christmas break. Want me to bring back photos?
"Normally I like to take my own photos, but sure." She nods. "I mean, it's not like I would be going with you."

>Think we could wear these in the Witching Hour it'd be dope
"Yeah," Price smiles. "Might be a bit chuuni, but we're fighting psychological constructs by transforming into monsters, so we can't exactly get much more ridiculous."

>I didn't expect so much philosophy from you. But it was cool.
"Come on, I'm not that dumb," Price grumbles. "I hang out in sketchy-looking places because they're less 'painted over' than most of the rest of the world. People in high society smile give each other fake smiles and lies for a living. I like people being honest, which is why I'm honest, too."

"Brutally," Ruth mutters. "Maybe you should learn to be less honest, or at least reconsider what you mean before you say it."

"Not today," Donna shakes her head. "I like being able to trust people. Like you guys. So I don't mince my words."

You feel like you understand the sometimes rude but always-sincere Donna better.

Greedy man, thou seek to take hold of the power to see the truth?
Very well... The gift of the Sage is yours.
Whether your vision shall give rise to clarity or blindness is to be seen...
...I will be here at the end of your path.
(You have awakened to a bond with Donna, the Sage. You feel as though you will find kinship with Myths like her.)

"Come on, let's go," Ruth suggests. "Have you already had dinner yet? We can get some. I'll pay this time."

As you walk towards the middle of the city and decide on something to eat, you pick up on Mr. Bennett sitting in the coffee shop you get coffee with Sofia at. He's sitting with the hot trio of women you saw at the waterpark, another, smaller woman, as well as a tall, strong-looking man and Mr. Clover. Most of them are dressed fashionably, even Walt, who's grudgingly in an ironed dress shirt and tie.

Donna tries to stop and look in. You can tell she's curious, but she's going to tip them off to your presence. Mr. Bennett is probably already aware. Ruth, realizing that Price might cause a scene, tries to pull her away.

>>Coffee Shop
>Let's go.
>Change of plans, let's get coffee.
>Which one of those is his girlfriend?
>What the hell is Clover doing here?
>(Just keep walking)
><Write-In>

>>1755870
Night. If there's a consensus, I'll end it here and continue next week.

Image goof. Have a music.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQObWW06VAM

>>1755886
>Which one of those is his girlfriend?
>What the hell is Clover doing here?

>>1755890
>Which one of those is his girlfriend?
"The one my size," Donna states. This woman is modestly dressed, and while she's quite pretty, she's not exactly your type.

"How can you tell for sure?" Ruth asks curiously.

"Because he brought out his flask and put it away when she gave him a look only girlfriends, mothers, and wives can."

Ruth is unconvinced. "And you know she's not his mother because..."

"Because she doesn't look like an old hag!" Donna says as if it were obvious.
Bennett lets a single glare off at Price, which lasts for half a second but shakes her to the core.

>What the hell is Clover doing here?
"Fuck if I know," Donna states, before looking back inside. You see with alarm that the tall man is standing up. He's a hint taller than you, and he's also much older. You feel like you might regret sticking around, as this guy could probably give Keith a run for his money as far as sheer muscle is concerned.

"Can I help you?" he asks calmly. The mystery man isn't angry, but he is a little bothered about being eavesdropped on. Donna and Ruth are both backing off a bit, so he looks at you for an answer.

You only have a few seconds to make something up.
>>Can I help you?
>Uh, I couldn't help but recognize you. You're a boxer, right? My friend Keith talked about you. (Bluff)
>My friend was wondering if she knew you from somewhere. (Not technically lying)
>Can I phone a friend? (Put another one of the girls on the spot)
>Yeah, we saw our teacher and were just curious what he was doing surrounded by beautiful women. And you. And Mr. Clover. (The truth)
>SCATTER! (Run for your life)
><Write-In>

>>1755919
>My friend was wondering if she knew you from somewhere.

>>1755921
>My friend was wondering if she knew you from somewhere.
"Oh, really?" He raises an eyebrow. "I wasn't aware I was that famous." He nods in the direction of Keith's boxing gym. "I've had a couple of sparring matches with some Crescent City boxers- they have a lot of potential."

"Yeah," Donna follows up. "I have a cousin who boxes there. I think he talked about you." She's a little starstuck by this guy.

"Hm. What's his name?"

"Paul Price," she stutters. "I don't remember which locker he is, but if you box there often, you should see him."

"Hm." The man nods, and pokes you non-threateningly in the chest. "Well, if you're into boxing, you oughta take a look at the masked tournament they're having in a month or so. Faces concealed, obviously, but a regular can tell who's who. It's for charity. The prize is a set of specialty boxing gloves and a belt made for the occasion." He shrugs and begins to walk back inside. "I'd participate myself, but I won't be here by then. Good luck."

After he steps back inside and explains what you told him to the others, they go back to their conversation without an issue. Donna nearly faints, and Ruth walks towards her intended inner location with newfound speed.

---
I think that's it for tonight. I'll answer questions while I'm here, and archive the thread. Look out on my Twitter when I post the prompt's writeup and another to make up for my slow ass delivery.

>>1755961
*dinner location
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3sLDHWmSiQ

Archived!
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/1749044/