first?

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>>2118919

"So, you letting your sister drink her worries away now Ryu?" With a thin smile, you walk over to the stool next to the aforementioned elf and sit down.

"Would you believe me if I said she hasn't had a drink yet?" The male elf gives you his, practically, trademark smile, "Sierra's been working hard lately, really burning both ends of the candle".

"I see," You... actually don't. Why's she working so much? "What's she need the money for anyways?"

Ryu just smirks, "That's not my place to say".

"How mysterious..." With a bit of sarcastic bite to your words, you roll your eyes at him, "My shop's pretty much fully open at this point, so I've been working a lot lately; mostly getting orders filled and all that".

"That's good to hear," He resumes cleaning with another glass, calmly listening to you, "I imagine you didn't come here to talk only, unless you did. Can I interest you in a drink?"

Your response?
> Get what you had last time
> Try something light
> Try something hard
> Other

>>2118951
>non-alchoholic for me please. I need to be sober for killing the bitch whos going to try and jump me

[bonus points for innuendo]

>>2118959
this

>>2118959
this

>>2119085
>>2119019
>>2118959

Non-Alcoholic it is.

Writin'

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>>2118951

"Keep it clean for me; don't know when I'll have another run in with her," You can't help the scorn that seeps into your voice at that, "Don't want to be tipsy if she decides to jump my bones again".

"Alright," Pausing his work, Ryu gets to work mixing together something for you despite the fact you didn't actually really order a drink. Huh... "Here you go".

Grabbing the 'cocktail', something tugs at your head, "... Didn't you serve this for me previously?"

"So you do remember," He resumes cleaning, "I forget the name of it, but this is a drink that looks exactly like an alcoholic beverage but is entirely soft. Usually ordered by people who either don't want to get drunk or wish to uphold appearances".

"Thanks..." Dryly responding, you sip down the drink, "Yeah, you served me this back at the party. Tastes a bit different now though..."

"That's because you're entirely sober currently. Back at the party you were already two drinks in, so I adjusted the recipe to better suit your condition at the time," Ryu smiles at your slightly confused look, "Cocktails are not set in stone, small adjustments to the mix can have a large impact on the drink. Of course, the customer is another thing that can change the taste of it as well".

"Huh," Taking another drink of it, you consider what to say next, "Not sure if you're trying to impress me; don't you know I'm just a guy who drinks to get drunk?"

The two of you enjoy a good-natured laugh at that, lapsing into an easy smile.

Anything you'd like to say?
> Ask Ryu if he'd be willing to help with the vamp issue
> Ask Ryu if he's heard anything suspicious lately
> Ask Ryu something else
> Wake up Sierra and talk to her
> Other

>>2119127
>> Wake up Sierra and talk to her

>>2119127
> Ask Ryu if he's heard anything suspicious lately
> Ask Ryu something else
Just shoot the shit at each other. Complain on some things, laugh at others, etc...

>>2119127
>heard anything about anything?

barkeep, your a barkeep so you know some shit thanks to your station. and if you don't, your doing something wrong

>>2119127
>>2119140
> Wake up Sierra and talk to her
This too at the end. She'll probably be pissed if we didn't at least say hello to her...or she'll just be cranky if we did wake her up. Damned if you do, damned if you don't.

>>2119138
>>2119140
>>2119144
>>2119147

Ask Ryu if he's heard anything, then talk to Sierra.

Writin'

>>2119127

"Not to bring down the mood, but have you heard anything out of the ordinary lately. And don't give me the 'customer confidentiality' speech; I don't want to know anything personal," Swirling around the remainder of your drink, staring into Ryu's eyes evenly.

There's nothing said for a moment before he sighs, "... Sierra mentioned that you occasionally had this dangerous air, a glint in your eyes that reflects an unknown drive; I now know what she meant by that".

"You didn't answer the question, Ryu".

"There it is," The elf laughs a bit at his own joke; you don't, "... People are scared, John. They live in this city with the implied promise that it'll be safe, then something happens and close to two dozen people die in a single night. The fact that the Damiyo aren't talking about what happened during the party isn't helping the situation either. But, I assume that you already know this".

"I do, but considering that you and I were at that party we know why it's being covered up," Placing the empty glass against the counter, you glance over to Sierra, who at this point mumbles something in her sleep, "Again, you still haven't answered my question".

"Then, I suppose I can't answer your question," Ryu brings up the glass he's been working on and examines it, "People are scared, and it's only going to get worse as time goes on".

You frown a bit, about to respond when the sleepy elf sits up slightly, blinking wearily, "...hmm? John? ...John!?"

In almost comedic fashion, Sierra's eye boggle and she leans backwards away from you. With that, the mood in the room lightens again.

"Surprised to see me?" Odds are good that Ryu doesn't know anything of importance, so you might as well just drop the issue.

"Kinda, yeah," Glancing about, she looks towards her brother curiously, "I didn't know what you were up to lately; figured I'd run into you at some point".

"I've been busy with my shop and a few orders I've g-"

"You opened up a shop?" Sierra interrupts you, her attention now firmly on you.

"Yeah...?" Looking over to Ryu, you raise an eyebrow, "I thought you told her?"

He just smiles, "I believed that Sierra should hear it from you, yourself".

"You should have told me!" She gives her brother a mock glare before turning back to you, "And congratulations John! You managed to accomplish your goal!"

"You're right..." Tapping your empty glass, you give her a simple smile, "I did manage to do just that".

Now what?
> Ask Sierra if she wants to grab dinner together
> Ask Sierra what she's been working so hard for
> Ask Sierra something else
> Ask Ryu something else
> Other

>>2119534
>> Ask Sierra if she wants to grab dinner together

>>2119534
>Ask Sierra if she wants to grab dinner together
>"Since you're awake, let's continue this date with a dinner for two"
What woman would not jump at the opportunity to go on a date with a respectable, self-made businessman?

>>2119534

>What have you been up to? You look dead beat and that's heartbreaking.
>Anything I can do to help?

How much does a dinner cost, can we afford it with cash we have?
If yes, invite her right now. If not, invite her for tomorrow.

>>2119534
>talk about work

and then
>offer dinner

>>2119559
when said businessman is a associate of the mafia and has her brother in the room

>>2119565

You've got 22 Silver Coins, 45 Copper Coins on hand. Unless you're going to a place in the Cloud District, you've got more than enough cash on hand.

>>2119555
>>2119559
>>2119565

See what's going on, then see about dinner.

Writin'

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>>2119534

"What have you been doing lately that's been running you so far into the ground anyways?" You're about to ask about grabbing some food when the question comes to mind.

"Huh?" Sierra looks confused, "What do you mean?"

You motion towards where she was passed out on the bar minutes ago, "I know you can't exactly work at the hotel currently, though I don't think you need to work yourself to the point exhaustion. So, what do you need the money for?"

There's a moment where nothing happens, though you're a bit surprised when the elf goes as red as a tomato, "I-I don't need too much! I'm just saving up!"

"Uh, alright. That's good to hear," Glancing over to Ryu for any kind of hint as to what's going on, he just continues with that damn smiling poker face of his, "Anyways, do you want to grab some food? I haven't eaten anything yet".

"Sure!" With that same embarrassed energy, Sierra jumps off the stool and starts pulling on your arm to get you moving too.

Quickly saying goodbye to the elven bartender, who says he'll put the cost of your drink on a tab, the two of you head out into the cold night.

"So, did you have something in mind?" She speaks up after a few seconds.

Your response?
> Go somewhere in the Earth District
> Go somewhere in the Fire District
> Go somewhere in the Water District
> Eat dinner back at your shop

>>2119696
I forget which one of these is the most upscale, but that's where we're going.

>>2119700

The Cloud District is the 'upper-class' area, but you don't have the coin on hand to really afford dinner there. The Fire District is more of a militarized area while the Water District is the business area. The Earth District is the 'lower-class' area.

>>2119696
back to our shop, give her a look about and the directions. also we are good cooks.........right?

if not we can grab some fast food as we go by

>>2119696

Let her have a pick of the place. If she doesn't have a preference, then either Dragon's Lair (if the cooking was good, I don't remember for sure) or some other decent place in earth district.

Also absolutely insist on escorting her back home afterwards. And advice both her and Ryu to avoid going out after sunlight in general, in case the bad guys aim for our friends next.

is she wearing the necklace?

>>2119716
Water district also has larger presence of both mafia clans, or?

>>2119723
changing to this

>>2119716
Oh, yeah, I knew Cloud but it wasn't on the list.
I suppose the Water District would have the next nicest establishments.

>>2119726
You think they're going to get in our face if we're just out dining?

>>2119723
This is fine, she must have had more time than us to have gone to eateries. Hell, we've barely eaten or slept the entire time we have been in the city.

>>2119731
>You think they're going to get in our face if we're just out dining?
Given our track record in visiting local establishment I wouldn't be surprised, although chancing upon genovese one would be (mostly) harmless I suppose

>>2119717

Your cooking hasn't killed anyone yet.

>>2119723

The Dragon's Lair makes some mean dumplings.

>>2119726

Correct

>>2119731
>>2119728
>>2119723

See what Sierra recommends

Writin'

>>2119696

"Do you have a place that you'd recommend? I don't get the chance to go out and eat much," Might as well see if Sierra has a favorite spot.

She thinks to herself for a moment, during which you idly note that she's wearing your gift, before pulling you further into the Water District, "I do! Hope you like sea food".

"I ate fish all the time back in Airgrid," With a smile, you walk alongside her.

The two of you enjoy a comfortable silence as you travel the cobblestone streets, looking around as you pass the nearby alleyways. As you do, you feel a slender, warm hand slip into your own; looking to Sierra you give her a smile and a slight squeeze that she returns with a minor blush.

Things are pretty calm here, though it's likely due to the fact that there are guys on several street corners keeping an eye on things. Guess Gladiator and his boys are making sure nothing happens on their turf. You're a bit nervous at the fact that you're with Sierra currently, but there's no issue as you two continue on your way.

"And here we are," Eventually, you come up to a simple restaurant right near the piers of the port, the smell of fresh fish coming out of it.

Heading inside, you're lead to a table for two out on a deck area with a lovely view of the sea. Being handed a menu, you quickly pick out your usual order of fish and chips; which you practically lived off of in Airgrid considering how cheep it was out there. You also note a few more exotic varieties of fish and something that translates as 'sushi' which also has a note of including raw seafood. Hmm... what to order...
> Get Fish and Chips
> Get something more Exotic
> Get this 'Sushi'

>>2119877
>fish and chips

if anything looks nice, just nick it off serrias plate

>>2119877
>> Get this 'Sushi'

>>2119877
Ask Sierra for recommendation, if she’s unsure then go with the familiar Baka gaijin Fish and Chips

>>2119877
> Get this 'Sushi'
Raw fish, what could go wrong?

>>2119877
> Get this 'Sushi'
Let's try some of this "Natto" stuff, here...

>>2119877
> Get something more Exotic

>>2119877
>> Get Fish and Chips

>>2119877
>Get Fish and Chips

Most egregious tie breaker roll ever?

>>2120091
Begun, this wok food war has

>>2119877
>Get this "Sushi"
Always good to try new things.

>>2119877
>> Get this 'Sushi'

>>2119896
>>2119908
>>2119957
>>2120165
>>2120218

Sushi it is.

> Roll me three 1d100+5's for trying new things please

Rolled 49 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>2120349
Hope we like it...

Rolled 99 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>2120349

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>2120349

>>2120364

That's a 104, John isn't squeamish about raw fish apparently.

>>2119877

You're tempted to stick with your usual Fish and Chips, or even go for something new but still Western. After a moment, you remember a phrase you learned in your studies so long ago, "When in Römisch, do as the Römisches do".

Never did figure out what exactly 'Römisch' was, but you could understand the meaning behind it well enough.

So, with a bit of surprise on Sierra's face, you order a plate of this 'Sushi' when the waiter comes by; she recovers quickly and orders 'tempura'. The two of you make small talk while your food is being prepared, just asking about how she's been doing for the most part. The elf talks about how she's working at a few other bars in the area. Apparently Kyoko is still with her, which is good. You try lightly prodding her about what she's saving up for, but, again, she clams up and refuses to budge.

When the food arrives, the two of you stop talking to dig in. You're not entirely sure what to expect, but raw fish surrounded by what you know from reading is 'rice' but not experience wrapped up in what smells like seaweed isn't quite what you were anticipating.

As you pick up the first piece, you note that Sierra is watching with apt interest as you raise it up to your mouth and take a large bite out of it.

You're... pleasantly surprised at it. The raw fish isn't as hard to swallow as you thought it would be, the rice itself is a bit sticky but that doesn't detract from the flavor. Plopping the remainder of your first piece into your mouth, your companion raises an eyebrow at your lack of complaint.

"I'm a bit surprised, John," She calmly puts down her breaded seafood, "Didn't think you were much for Eastern culture and the like".

Your response?
> "Was just a bit jarring, is all"
> "I don't, but that doesn't mean this isn't good food"
> "I'm only against those paper mats they pass off as doors"
> Others

>>2120450
>> "I'm only against those paper mats they pass off as doors"

"Sound goes through easily, they're fragile, and can catch fire in a matter of seconds. But it's always nice to try something new."

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>>2120450
> "I'm only against those paper mats they pass off as doors"
I've literally torn through at least five of them by accident.
Anyway, maybe I should try the natto sushi this time...

Has she made any new friends? Has she kept in touch with goo hwi? Would she be able to find Sarah with her magic?

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>>2120450
Is he eating them with chop sticks or with his hand? If it's the latter, that's absolutely barbaric.

>>2120520

Yep, John's a barbaric man.

>>2120520
Better a barbarian than a stick wielding pansy.

>>2120574
What happened to "when in Römisch"?

>>2120592
John already hates paper doors, so it wouldn't be much of a stretch to imagine that he'd dislike chopsticks too.

>>2120600
Well at least he tried it...
It's better to try new things than to be that guys who goes to a fancy restaurant and orders the chicken fingers.

>>2120630
You got something against tendies bruh?

>>2120450
>> "I'm only against those paper mats they pass off as doors"

>>2120482
>>2120489
>>2120644

Doors it is.

Writin'

>>2120450

"I'm only against those paper mats they pass off as doors," You're not a massive fan of Eastern stuff, but you don't remember ever being truly against it.

"Doors? Seriously, John? That's your problem?" Sierra's doubt is present both in her voice and across her face.

You just shrug at her, "There were a few people back in Airgrid who thought they were the greatest thing since magitech. I've never seen the allure; sound goes right through them, the catch fire far too easily, and they're so fragile I've accidentally torn through them on more than one occasion".

The elf looks at you blankly, before dropping her head into her hand. You can hear her muttering to herself, but she is smiling while doing so. After a bit, she looks up at you, "Why am I not surprised that you've destroyed those mats on multiple occasions? And 'they burn quickly'; are you speaking from experience there?"

"Hey, it's not my fault we needed to escape a deal gone bad," Despite your excuse, you can't help but feel a bit embarrassed at what you used to get up to, "Also, you can blame Dutch for lighting the mat on fire".

Sierra laughs again while shaking her head, clearly not believing you. You just munch on your next piece of sushi in response. Conversation lapses as the two of you enjoy your food and look out over the port.
> Ask Sierra if she's talked to Goo Hwi lately
> Ask Sierra if she plans on taking responsibility for holding your hand earlier
> Ask Sierra if she'd be willing to help you hunt down the vamps
> Ask Sierra something else
> Enjoy the silence

>>2120763
> Ask Sierra if she's talked to Goo Hwi lately
> Ask Sierra if she'd be willing to help you hunt down the vamps
> "By the way, would you like to come see my place tonight?"

>>2120774
WOAH SLOW THE FUCK DOWN
Supporting this

>>2120763
> Ask Sierra if she's talked to Goo Hwi lately
> Ask Sierra if she plans on taking responsibility for holding your hand earlier

>>2120763
> Ask Sierra if she's talked to Goo Hwi lately
> Ask Sierra if she plans on taking responsibility for holding your hand earlier

>>2120774

>>2120774
Supporting this

We are well overdue for a sexual relationship

>>2120774
hey mate, chill your beans

I approve

supporting this but add the hand holding thing

>>2120763
>Ask Sierra if she’s talked to Goo Hwi lately
>Ask Sierra if she plans on taking responsibility for holding your hand earlier.

Dunno about inviting her over... it would be very nice, but it’s pretty late... she might be inclined to stay til morning and we only have one bed...

>>2120763
>Ask Sierra if she’s talked to Goo Hwi lately
>Ask Sierra if she plans on taking responsibility for holding your hand earlier.

>>2120520
You're supposed to eat sushi with your hand dumbass. Sashimi you eat with chopsticks.

>>2121200
I'm sure John would be fine with sleeping on a chair.

>>2120763

> Ask Sierra if she's talked to Goo Hwi lately
> Ask Sierra if she plans on taking responsibility for holding your hand earlier
> Ask Sierra if she'd be willing to help you hunt down the vamps
>"By the way, would you like to come see my place tonight?"

semi-serious to joke, to really serious, to ???
Seems like a fairly John progression to me

>>2120774
Support!

>>2120774
sounds good

>>2121262
I also support!
Also... is there any chance that we might get a centaur gf now that everyone wants to fuck the elf?

>>2120763
>>2120774

Quick question - is our place really in a condition to show it to her right now?

> The apartment area is a rather sparse affair, with a small kitchen area, a bathroom, and a single bedroom.

Like we don't even have furniture. If we had some silver we could maybe take her to it and show off by forging a nice little ladies knife or something to protect her from the Vamps.

After all, it's pretty cold out right now and a forge is always warm.

Once again, no furniture though.

>>2124145

The shop/apartment is clean, has working heat and hot water, and has power. You don't have much furniture, yes, but you've also had the place for all of three days including 'today'.

>>2124126

I'm gonna be brutally honest, New Fag, when you originally brought this up ~10 threads ago, I gave a fair amount of thought to whether or not there could actually be centaurs in this setting. In the end, the only way they could be a thing would be if they're Blight Monstrosities and, well, we're all very well aware of John's disposition towards anything related to the Blight...

>>2120774
>>2120801
>>2120812
>>2120818
>>2120820
>>2121020
>>2121101
>>2121200
>>2121204
>>2121262
>>2121300
>>2123951

Talk some more, with some teasing, then see if Sierra is interested in seeing the shop.

Writin'

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>>2124165
It wasn't me who proposed it, it was someone else. I supported the idea because the anon said any future golem choices they would help the golem Bros and we would help the centaur Bros with qt.14 centaurs. Thanks for being honest and not letting me believe in false hopes.

>>2124185
Don't worry Anon. I'm here since thread 3 and will never give up on golems.

Although an ornithopter would be nice, too.

>>2124185
>>2124192

Golem plot line hook is there, you guys just have to figure out which one it is and go for it.

>>2120763

You have to be honest, it's a bit surprising just how much you're enjoying the comfortable silence between you and Sierra currently. It's a nice change of pace, as the two of you munch on the remains of your meal while looking over the water. Sadly, that comes to an end when you remember there's a few other things you want to talk to her about.

"Have you talked to Goo Hwi lately?" Thinking about it, you haven't heard much from the old man in some time...

Sierra takes a second to finish the last bite of her tempura before answering, "Not too recently, no. I talked to him briefly a few days ago on the street while I was heading to work. He said something about wandering about looking for some niche shop or the other; wasn't too forthcoming on the specifics and I had to run to my job anyways".

"That's a shame, I haven't gotten to talk to him much aside from one, quick conversation," Washing down the last of your sushi with your water, you regard her for a moment before making your choice, "We were actually talking about how best to deal with that little problem which occurred during the part; would you be interested in helping us out with that?"

The elf's expression hardens, glancing about as she notes the purposefully vague way you're speaking, "...Didn't realize it was getting so serious".

You nod, "It is. I'm having a little get together in three nights about this time to pool what we know".

"Alright, I'll see if I can make it," Sierra frowns and looks down, "Not sure what exactly I could bring to the table..."

"You're just an experienced combat mage, minor telepath, and you have successfully held off an attack by them; don't have a clue what you could possibly add to the equation," You roll your eyes a bit at her lack of self-confidence.

"Well, geez, if you say so..." The elf pouts as you chuckle at her response; for a moment it looks like she's going to splash you with water but she clearly restrains herself.

[1/2]

>>2124252

[2/2]

"On second thought, perhaps bringing you along isn't a good idea..." Closing your eyes, you fake a thoughtful expression, "It'll be rather important, and I want to make a good impression; can't have a deviant like yourself around otherwise it might ruin the atmosphere".

"I'm the deviant between the two of us? Have you looked in the mirror lately?" Despite the fact that her arms are crossed and her eyes are narrowed, you can see the barest hint of a smile creeping along Sierra' face.

"And who was it that decided to hold my hand on the way here?" Your expression morphs into an ear-to-ear grin, "You've gotten quite bold in the months we've been apart; I don't know what I'm going to do after you did that to my poor, poor heart. You're going to have to take responsibility for what you've done".

"J-John..." Ah, that's a lovely shade of red, "You... you..."

Sierra puts her burning cheeks in her hands, completely unwilling to look anywhere near you after your teasing. While she's busy attempting to recover, you flag down the waiter from before and pay the bill. It's a bit more expensive that you'd like, but you've got the coin on hand to give the guy a bit extra after he makes the change.

> You have lost: 1 Silver Coin!

"If you're done having a meltdown," You stand up and offer a hand to Sierra, who is apparently just recovered as her head jolts up, "You want to visit my shop?"

"I... You know what? Sure, why not?" Accepting your hand, the two of you leave the restaurant hand in hand.

The night air is chilly, but neither of you seem to mind as you just walk a bit closer together. You are going to need to get warmer clothes at some point...

> Roll me three 1d100+10's please

Rolled 50 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>2124483

Rolled 44 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>2124483

Rolled 96 (1d100)

>>2124483

>>2124601

106, Let's see what you see.

Writin'

>>2124483

Entering the Earth District, you can practically feel your skin bristle as several gazes immediately snap onto you. Continuing the casual conversation you've got running with Sierra, you make sure to make several exaggerated movements to get a good look around.

Honestly, it would have been much harder to spot your stalkers, but the fact that most people are staying off the streets after dark makes it that much more obvious. There's even a few up on the rooftops, keeping an overwatch from a distance.

You're debating letting your companion know what's going on when they suddenly peel off and vanish into the night.

"Something wrong, John?" Looking back over, you can see Sierra giving you a look of slight concern.

"It's nothing, just thought I saw someone I knew," Shrugging a bit, the two of you continue on your way.

That is, of course, until you get to your shop. "So, this is the place?" The elf looks it over from the outside as you dig through your pockets for your keys.

"Yep," Cleanly sliding it into place, you hold the door open, "Ladies first".

"What a gentleman~" Laughing a bit at your antics, Sierra nonetheless enters anyways, "Hmm...Not much here, huh?"

"I still have a lot of work to do, and I've been busy filling some orders to get the storefront spruced up," Walking past her, you easily vault the counter and unclasp the latch to let her past, "C'mon, in my line of work you always keep the good stuff in the back".

"Right, I always forget you were part of a mob".

"Mafia; you make me sound like a two-bit gangster calling me a 'mobster'," You back and forth is cut short as you step aside to let Sierra fully into the workshop/forge, "And this here is where the magic happens".

She doesn't say anything at first, simple walking around and looking at the forge. Eventually, the elf speaks, "... Do you give discounts?"

"To whom, you? Sure, I can cut you a deal. Why, what do you want?" You're a bit surprised that Sierra would ask you to make something for her, considering that she hasn't in the past. Then again, she didn't know you had this shop until earlier this evening...

"Well, I was thinking, with everything that's happened, that I could use...
> ... a better magical focus"
> ... a set of armor"

>>2125089
>> ... a set of armor"
Light weight and everyday wearable. We aren't really experts at magic focuses and didn't we just gift her one a little bit ago?

>>2125089
>> ... a set of armor"
Make her something awesome.

>>2125089
> ... a set of armor"
I'd go for medium
heavy is well to heavy and light requires her to be good at dodging

>>2125089
>Armor
Guys, this means... this means we need to ask her for her three sizes.

>>2125119
It does need to be tailor made after all.

>>2125099

I guess Magic Amp would be a better wording for what I meant. The gift you gave her was a minor mana storage crystal mixed with a minor mana conduit; the magical equivalent of a back up, emergency battery.

>>2125099
>>2125103
>>2125109
>>2125119

Armor it is.

Writin'

>>2125089

... a set of armor. Figured if anyone'll know how to make a good one, it'll be you," She motions towards the pile of material you have stacked up at the side as she speaks, calmly regarding you.

"Sure, I can do that," Doesn't sound like too much of an issues baring a few details, "Do you have anything in mind?"

"Well," Sierra tucks a lock of hair behind her elven ear, "Light would be preferable, but I can use Medium just fine, just don't make it too clunky; I am an elf after all".

"I'm pretty much done with my current contracts, so I should be able to get to work on it relatively quickly," Pushing off where you've been leaning against the workbench, you can't help a smile as you approach her, "Are you sure you want me making you a custom set of armor? You're going to have to disclose some rather... personal information to me".

The implication isn't lost on her as she once again goes rosy, "W-Well, I suppose if there's anyone who I'd tell, it'd be you..."

Oh, that wasn't exactly what you were expecting... There's a moment of awkward silence between the two of you before you decide to get things moving again, "The tour isn't done yet; there's still the upstairs".

At your urging, both of you leave the lower floor, and it's awkwardness, behind.

"Huh, it's cleaner than I thought..." Is Sierra's first comment as you come to your apartment area and flick the lights on.

"Hey, the first thing I did was clean up around here," Giving her a faux glare, you motion towards your bare bones living quarters, "I'm planning to get more stuff to fill up the empty space, but I don't have the income to throw away currently. 'Sides, with everything that's been happening, I've been a bit preoccupied to do interior decorating".

"I see..." Glancing about this room, her gaze eventually settles onto your bedroom door. Giving you a slightly playful look, Sierra heads right for it, "Don't mind if I do~"

Not entirely sure what she's getting at, you calmly follow her as she enters and looks about.

She looks... disappointed? "Didn't I just say I haven't had much time to furnish things?" You look at her curiously as you take off your pack and place it next to your night stand.

"I guess..." Sierra sounds oddly somber, with a bit of hesitation to her voice; you chalk it up to her not finding whatever she was looking for in here.

There's a few seconds of calm silence as you do a quick run through of you belongings, making sure that you haven't left anything behind anywhere.

It doesn't last long.

"... John?" Looking over you shoulder, you're just in time to see Sierra turn off the light in your room. Soft, gentle moonlight illuminates a portion of your room from your windows, giving the elf an odd look to her, "Do... do you mind if I'm selfish for a moment?"

Your response?
> "No?"
> "Depends on what you want, Sierra"
> "A bit"
> Other

>>2125382
>> "No?"

>>2125382
>> "No?"

>>2125382
>> Other
Turn the lights down and start humming careless whisper

>>2125410
she already turned of the lights

>>2125382
> "No?"

>>2125382
I've already been selfish enough to take your company all for myself tonight.

If you listen softly, you can hear the men of the city weeping.

Some of the ladies too.

>>2125382
>”No?”

Is she going to reveal that she has become a vampire now?

>>2125879
I hope so...

>>2125880
bad new fag, no making our love interest and second best friend into a blood sucking parasite

>>2125879
>>2125880
>>2125885

I was tempted to have that happen, considering it would have been a good twist given the build up in this scene specifically. Unfortunately, having Sierra turn around and chomp down on John's neck here would entire circumvent this world's process of turning into a vampire. For one, the vamps that have their sanity have been undead for years; thus, she would have had to have been turned well before the start of this quest and she would have been unable to walk around in the daytime like she has.

>>2125386
>>2125403
>>2125421
>>2125643
>>2125427

I don't see the issue.

Writin'

>>2125908
I only said that because I don't think we have seen her in sunlight in a while.

>>2125908
I half suspected she's going to say "I'll take the bed, then" and shut the door in our face, but that would've been kinda dick move. Although seeing her disappointed at the absolute state of bedroom did hurt a little bit.

Anyway, while we wait for what happens next, we need a bit of a shopping list for when the two girls come pick up their stuff and we have cash to burn.

>check if some additional silver isn't available?
>computer system that would aid us in accessing the robot parts, programming the controllers and eventually maybe run shop's security?
>parts we need for the spiderbot - servos, controllers, conduits?

Also we'll need to figure out details of Sierra's new outfit. Is it possible to make a medium armor that would be discreet enough to wear casually? Or should we stick with light one?
I'm also assuming that using the precursor alloy is a given.

>>2125934
I say something she can wear without anybody knowing. Her relationship to us is going to be noticed by interested parties so I think something to help her in surprise situations would be best for now. We can always make something bigger for planed danger.

>>2125942
Yeah, we were at the party where vampires attacked and we danced with her. I'd say it's safe to assume that our connection with her is not a secret and secrecy in dealing with her, unless we jump town, to somewhere completely new, is a waste of effort that can be better spent on fitting her out with gadgets.

>>2125951
And as a bonus; in order to make something as unnoticeable as possible we will have to study her body extensively. So it's a win all around.

File: Sierra_LookingStuffed.png (184 KB, 422x580)

184 KB PNG

>>2125382

"No?" You're a bit confused at statement until a slightly dark thought crosses your mind; your eyes narrowing and your hand twitching toward your sword as you examine her closer. That tension is slightly elevated as Sierra steps into the moonlight as, while it does some interesting things to her visage, you can't see any hint of malice in her eyes and there's a lack of that twisted beauty that you noted on the female vamp that you've been dealing with lately, "I really don't mind if you're selfish, Sierra".

"...do you mean that?" You're a bit surprised at how meek she sounds, looking down at the floor and unable to look at you, but the sheer vulnerability in her voice is what gets you to stand up fully.

Walking up to her, you place a hand on her shoulder to help steady her, "Yes, I do".

That snaps her out of whatever she was stuck in, as her gaze trails up from where your hand is all the way up until she's finally look at you again. There's a tremor of embarrassment that shakes her body for a moment before she takes a shuddering breath to calm herself. The two of you stare at each other for a moment, before Sierra eventually sighs, "...ah, screw it".

You're a bit surprised as the sensation of her lips meeting your own, but you quickly recover and wrap your other arm around her waist to pull her closer. The feeling... it's nice. There's no magical feeling, ironically enough, nor is there some kind of explosive reaction; what there is, however, is a small, but growing, sense of warmth from where your two bodies are pressed together and the feeling of a knot in your back slowly coming undone as you continue your silent embrace.

Eventually, and unfortunately, you have to break the kiss apart; though you don't end the embrace as Sierra leans her head against your chest and you keep your arms firmly wrapped around her.

"...you're such a tease, John," The elf speaks up, her voice muffled through your shirt, "You come out of nowhere, save my life twice, then run off to an apprenticeship for several months; you always managed to look good doing it, too".

"Are you asking for another k-".

She cuts off your sentence by grabbing your collar in both of her hand and pulling the two of you together once again. You chuckle a bit at the fact that she succeeded in finishing your question without speaking.

You break apart again, this time Sierra huffs a bit and bites her lip; looking a bit more thoroughly kissed than how she entered the room. The pleasant haze fades away a bit as you glance over to where you have a small view of the night sky, reminding you of the current time. Turning back to you, possibly romantic, companion, you speak up...
> "Kissing is nice and all, but the real fun comes after..."
> "You want to catch some sleep now?"
> "It's getting late, let me walk you back"
> Other

>>2126007
>Are you sure about this?............

might as well double cheak, before we do anything rash

I don't think we are getting much sleep tonight if shit goes our way

>>2126019
beta

>>2126007
> "Kissing is nice and all, but the real fun comes after..."

>>2126007
>Take her hand.
>"It's late, and... would you like to stay overnight?"

...then let the situation unfold naturally. I.e. insist on walking her home if she refuses.

>>2126027
welp, better than mine changing to this from this>>2126019


>>2126026
I'm cautious, if that makes me beta so be it

>>2126027
that's better, going with this one

>>2126007
Voting for
>>2126027

>>2126019
>>2126026
>>2126027
>>2126029
>>2126031
>>2126060

To clear up any confusion, this is essentially the 'do you want lewds' choice. It'll be a fade to black scene if chosen, since I'm not sure on whether or not that kind of stuff is alright on here, but still.

>>2126094
in that case, fade to black.

I'm not sure its allowed on here either, but I wouldn't think so.

>>2126094
I wasn't exactly aiming for smut, there's really no need for that

>>2126094
You can put it up on pastebin, but ultimately it's up to you.

>>2126094
Yes, and fade to black is perfectly fine. It is potentially bannable if you don't, I think.

>>2126027
>>2126029
>>2126031
>>2126060

Let's see where the night goes...

Writin'

>>2126239
Don’t forget to take her measurements in the morning light (and see how ticklish she is). Also let’s hear the specifications for the new dress. Is she going to be wearing it casually (favoring light armor styled as novelty clothes) or only in specific circumstances (wonder what those would be...) which would point towards medium...

As for discount, I suggest hot pockets tariff (i.e. doing it for free) or pricing it at cost of materials. But if she points people in our direction while bar tending, her favor will end up more than worth it even aside from the fact that we care.

Also does she know about the Sarah quest? We should tell her about that as well, maybe she’d like to tag along when we eventually go on the mission.

>>2126007

"You sure about this?" Reaching out, you tuck that same errant strand of hair behind her ear. You're not really surprised when she leans into your touch.

"Yeah," Sierra looks at you with those dark, hazel eyes, "I am".

Kissing again, this one isn't quite as bruising as the previous one but it's still got a less than gentle edge to it. You don't mind.

Pulling back, you give the elf an easy smile which she responds to by giggling a bit. You look over your shoulder to where your bedspread is sitting there; turning back to Sierra with a bit of a grin now, "Kissing is nice and all, but the real fun comes after..."

A slight dusting of pink covers her cheeks, though she laughs after thinking about it for a moment, "You said I was the degenerate? Here you are acting like a casanova..."

"Are you complaining?" Slowly, you drag your fingers down the side of her face until you reach her chin.

Your flirty behavior is slightly countered as Sierra sides a hand under your shirt and presses it against your stomach, "Well, I suppose I can hold off on complaining for now..."

Laughing a bit at the situation at hand, you wait for her to start laughing as well before sweeping her off her feet. Surprised at your sudden action, the elf wraps her hands around your neck as you turn around and crash onto the bed.

There's a few seconds where the two of you just lay there, looking up at the ceiling and laughing at the stupidity of your actions.

Of course, the silence doesn't last forever; not that you planned on it anyways, "So..." Sierra speaks up after she calms herself, "What now?"

"Now," You sit up and lean over her, undoing the first few buttons at the top of her shirt, "Neither of us is going to get much sleep".

Giving her one more peck on the lips, you continue by sliding a hand over her collar and trailing kisses after it.

[ARTIFICER QUEST PART 14 END]

> Gonna have to end things here. Probably won't be able to update anymore tonight, but I'll be back up tomorrow.

>>2126336
Elf GET

>>2126336
Thanks for running OP!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gujvI25zWhU

>>2126336

>Nine Months Later

"Damn, it's a good thing us elves aren't that fertile or we'd probably have kids by now."

>>2126626
implying john won't be so virile that her low fertility won't matter

>>2126638
I don't think strong swimmers can compensate for an absent egg, or a hostile uterus.

>tfw John's incident with the blight has made him infertile.

>>2126642
>TFW when Johns incident with the blight has made him hyper-fertile.

> Serena is full of eggs.

>>2127897

Alternatively mutant blight babies

>>2126642
>>2127897

John's wound is on his upper to mid back, didn't happen anywhere near his reproductive organs.

>>2128198
He should be careful. Boy might throw out his back...

I'm curious about what had Sierra disappointed about the bedroom. Was she expecting rose petals and candles? A clutter of tools and projects? Something only describable as a love nest?

>>2128647
It's probably that we has a P.O.S futon instead of a real bed

>>2128647
Actually I think you could say that. Nothing as exaggerated but I suppose she could have anticipated *some* sort of romantic getup seeing as we invited her in.

>>2126336

[ARTIFICER QUEST PART 15 START]

...

> Congratulations! Your sharp eye for details has further refined! Your Perception Skill is now at the Expert Rank!
> Congratulations! Your skill in forging metal into melee weapons has further refined! Your Smithing (Melee Weapons) is now at Expert Rank!

Blinking blearily, you slowly wake up to a deep feeling of languor in your bones accompanied by a sense of warmth and relaxation that you haven't felt in a while. Hell, aside from being a bit tired, you actually feel rather good currently; the last two nights of nightmares a distant memory...

Speaking of which, you turn your head a bit and confirm that yes, in fact, that is definitely a naked Sierra snuggled up against your side who is apparently dozing away without a care in the world.

It takes another few seconds for your half-asleep brain to fully piece everything together from what you did last night, at which point you have to restrain yourself from flinching as the full weight of your actions catch up to you.

Shit... You weren't too hasty, were you? You did just go ahead and screw a good friend of yours...

Well, if anything you do remember that she enjoyed herself so you guess that counts for something...

Ugh, whatever, you'll figure that out later. For now, you have a slightly different issue at hand. Mainly the fact that you can see the first rays of sunlight beginning to come over the horizon; as nice as it is to just lay here and enjoy Sierra's company, you do have work to do today.

The other, slightly less major issue is that you're currently without a shirt, and pants for that matter, which means that your scar is out in the open. You're not sure if you'd mind telling the elf about it now, but you don't think ruining this moment with that shitty story is a good idea. And you're not stupid; if you don't get dressed before she wakes up Sierra is definitely going to notice it. The only reason she didn't see it last night was because it was dark and she was, well, preoccupied at the time.

You let out a groan, which the lady in question responds to by murmuring a bit and moving a bit in her sleep; it should be criminal how nice this feels.

Unfortunately, you do have to make a decision...
> Get up now and get to work
> Stay in bed and wait for Sierra to wake up

>>2129864
>> Stay in bed and wait for Sierra to wake up

>>2129864
> Stay in bed and wait for Sierra to wake up

>>2129864
>> Stay in bed and wait for Sierra to wake up

Encourage her with some gentle flatulence. Then blame it on her when she wakes up.

>>2129864
>> Stay in bed and wait for Sierra to wake up

>>2129864
>> Stay in bed and wait for Sierra to wake up

>>2129864

>Cuddle the cute elf until she wakes up

>>2129864
Savour the good times while they last

>>2129864
depends on how difficult it is to get up, if it requires a roll then don't do it

>>2129864
>> Stay in bed and wait for Sierra to wake up

>>2129886
>>2129901
>>2130050
>>2130087
>>2130138
>>2130180
>>2130184
>>2130255
>>2130377

Might as well enjoy the moment.

Writin'

>>2129864

Well, it's not like you'll be able to hid your scar forever. Eventually, you're going to have to come clean to Sierra about what happened in Westmire and you'd rather she find out through you rather than some other way.

So, you wrap and arm around her and let yourself relax. Dozing off slightly, you're awoken by another murmur and the movement of Sierra stretching.

"Good morning," Your voice causes her to look up at you, her drowsy eyes blinking.

"Mmm..." She hums in contentment, running a hand over where yours is resting against her hip, "'Morning".

The two of you lay there for a moment, just enjoying the quiet. You look over to the window and note that the sun is well over the horizon by this point; unfortunately, you can't lay around all day long.

"Can't remember the last time I slept in this long, but it's time to get up now" Running a hand through her hair, you smile as the elf frowns a bit.

"You sure you have to?" After you nod in affirmative to her question, Sierra sighs and pushes herself off you, "If you say so..."

Chuckling a bit as she starts looking around for where her shirt is, you push yourself up and grab your trousers. Pulling them on, you're in the middle of reaching out for your shirt when you here a gasp.

"J-John! Wha..." Turning around, you see that Sierra is practically frozen in place in the middle of buttoning up her shirt, "What the hell happened to your back!?"

Despite your earlier thoughts, you can feel hesitation giving you pause. You want to talk to her about this, but this isn't a light sob story; this is the time you were almost torn in half.

Looking down, you clench your fist as you consider what to say next.
> "...I lied to you about what happened in Westmire"
> "...It's an old wound"
> "...I'll tell you about it another time"
> Other

>>2130515
>> "...I lied to you about what happened in Westmire"
I guess it's time to come clean

>>2130515
>I didn't tell you the whole truth, everyone did die in west mire, but I almost joined em

I forget what we told her, so I assume she knows everyone else but dutch is dead

>>2130528

The lie was that John, Dutch, and his family were outside of Westmire when it fell.

>>2130515
> "...I lied to you about what happened in Westmire"

>>2130531
well with that in mind

>you know how I said me and dutch were outside westmire when it fell? I was only telling half the story. we were leaving as the city fell and something decided I looked tasty.......dutch and devils luck is the only thing that stopped me becoming a bisected meal

by the way QM how ripped are we from godos apprenticeship

>>2130515
> "...I lied to you about what happened in Westmire."

Dutch saved half our life

>>2130515
Just tell her the truth.

so what's our plans for today

>take measurements of Sierra for her new outfit
>get paid by the mercs

>make some gadgets to show off in store?
>begin working on Sierra's armour?
>begin working on own heavy armour?
>shopping for hardware?
>continue working on spiderbot?

>>2131110
work on our golem frame. then go and round up the anti vamp council, then go get that daughter of the traindriver. I think we can find tech in the ruins to make a FULLY FUNCTIONING golem

>>2131110
>continue working on spiderbot?

>>2131110
geting ready for vamps seems best which means our amour sierras and maybe a weapon with a fire enchantment cause our tazer sword can't hurt them

>>2131396
If it's vampires we're concerned about then we should make some sort of armored clothing for ourselves, something we can wear in casual setting, seeing as we're not really walking around in our medium armour as it is and heavy armour would be even less convenient - although I'm sure it will come in handy when we go >investigate the ruins once the leads come in.

Also for Sierra. While medium armor would give her better protection, would she be wearing it all the time? I'd like her to have something she can wear at work. Maybe we could afford making both armored clothes and a suit of armor? I guess I'll wait for Sierra/OP's input on what she'll ask.

>>2131458
honestly I'm more thinking of the vampire that who has the power amour and probably has goo hwi level combat stats

>>2130557

John's in pretty good shape currently; being able to eat consistently and that apprenticeship did him wonders.

>>2130523
>>2130534
>>2130537
>>2130562
>>2130571

Come clean it is.

Writin'

Why not silver plating on the armor? If it's on the gauntlets, just touching the vamps with it would hurt them. If they try to touch/bite, it'd hurt them.

>>2132251
full plating would be fuck off expensive and situational, better to add some inlay to parts that are likely to be grabbed. like forarms, and shoulders, ankles, the edges of plates.

ded?

also, kind of surprised Sierra didn't feel the scar on John's back considering how large it apparently is.

>>2132258
Obviously. The threat is real, though. We need her to be able to wear and utilize it functionally, I'm thinking light armor made from that alloy with the silver plating added afterwards. She needs to be able to wear it under her clothes. Are we not about to get some more silver to work with once our bastion contract goes through?

>>2132964
We'll get more, but using that much silver is a tad ridiculous. also they're probably going to be using weapons if they're striking her in most of the armored places.or hammering her as hard as they can.

What about a scarf with some silvered threads in it? It'll help against vampire bites and keep her warm. Fuck it, just get her a cute scarf.

>>2132993
What about a cute scarf, and a cute pocket golem, with another, albeit tiny, cute scarf?

What about something like a Witchblade?

>>2132931

The way I envision it is that it looks worse than it is as the Blight partially burned the wound. The wound itself has faded and partially healed, but it still looks like John got hit with a jagged-edged blade.

>>2132251
>>2132258

Keep in mind that silver is a much softer metal than iron and that Sierra has both the Fire Bolt and Shocking Grasp spells.

>>2132993
>>2133001

That is an interesting idea. As for the pocket golem, anons were planning on making comm-links for everyone at some point...

>>2133140

Not entirely sure what you're referencing; got an example photo?

>>2133496
Referring to the witch blade. I'm not the anon who suggested it but, I think he means like a broadsword with one side silver and the other steel.
Don't quote me on this though...

>>2130515

"...I lied to you about what happened in Westmire," Glancing up, you note that Sierra is calmly looking at you; no longer frozen in place but still moving, "Well, that's not exactly right either; most of what I said was true. What was a lie was that I was outside of Westmire during the Fall".

You think that she's walking over to you, but you don't check as you continue, "Dutch and I were in the dead center of the city when the Blight hit and overran the outer wall. We were fleeing with the remaining survivors when the guards broke; that right there was where things really went to hell. Dutch managed to meet up with the rest of his family and all of us were nearly out when something got the drop on me. Damn thing nearly cut me in half and sent me into a coma for a mo-".

At that point, you're interrupted by the feeling of Sierra embracing you, "...I'm sorry for what happened to you".

"It's alright," You wrap your arms around her, "I don't like bringing it up because its not a happy memory, that's all; Dutch and I don't talk about it".

"How did you survive?" The elf doesn't look up at you, but you can tell that there's a sense of morose curiosity to her question.

"I... don't really know," That gets her attention, though you just shrug at her confused expression, "Like I said, the attack put me into a coma so my memory of that time is a bit screwy. Best I can gather is that Dutch managed to save my ass".

"Huh," After a moment, Sierra steps out of your embrace and gives you a simple smile, "Guess that's why you two are so close".

"Yep. Now, I imagine you want to get cleaned up?" Returning her smile, you open the door for her.

Showing the elf to the washroom, she doesn't enter immediately, "And if I don't want to get cleaned up?"

You just snort, "Unfortunately, as much as I'd like to, both of us have a bit too much to do to spend the entirety of today screwing around".

With a laugh, Sierra heads inside and you can hear the water running. While she's in there, you grab some food to leave out for breakfast and scarf down your own. After she's done, you take the chance to quickly wash up.

Finishing up, you exit the washroom to find her fast asleep on the table. Taking the chance to grab a clean set of clothing, you throw them on and return just in time for her to wake back up.

"That tired?" You give her a grin as you clean up a bit.

Her cheeks go a bit red at your comment, "I was letting my brother know that I stayed the night here".

Without anything else to do and Sierra on the last few bites of her breakfast, you consider what to do today.
> Work in the forge
> Go to your supplier
> Go somewhere (where?)
> Find someone (who?)
> Other

>>2133526
Let’s get started on her outfit while she’s here. And work the forge until clients arrive to pick up the goods.

>>2133526
find sun, so the vampire council can begin

>>2133526

this >>2133537

>>2133537
>>2133539

Council is planned to happen in 2 days after Jun comes by to pick up the weapons you've made for the Damiyo contract. If you want to go and talk to Goo Hwi, Archmage, etc etc and ask them if they could come to the meeting, that is something you can do.

>>2133536
By getting started I mean taking the measurements, talking about the design, whether she wants it to pass for casual outfit or something specifically rugged for outdoors...

I’m taking as given we’re using the deluxe alloy for this.

>>2133537
I suggest visiting Goo Hwi after we get paid, then making appointment with archmage as we go shopping... although do we know when exactly Jun’s coming?

>>2133549

Two days until Jun comes by.

well then

>>2133526

can I ask that we go see arch mage, ask him abut connections to that missing daughter in a ruin. there might be tech to find.

unless that would take longer than 2 days. in whitch case fuck me

>>2133555
Cool. In that case we have a date to tell Goo and the mafia man. Nevertheless I stand by doing that in the afternoon. Don’t want to be out of shop when the Mercs come to pick up the goods.

>>2133526

Backing
>>2133536

When are these people supposed to come and pick up their stuff. Is it today?

>>2133637
yup

>>2133536
>>2133537
>>2133539
>>2133617

Okay, one last vote.
> Go talk to Archmage/Goo Hwi about the meeting
> Work on Sierra's Armor

>>2133769
>sierras armour

>>2133769
>armor
We got stalked while walking about with her, no way we are allowing her to leave the store without every possible protection.

>>2133769
I stand by my previous vote - she's here to model and consult, we've got to man the shop anyway...
>armour

>>2133790
(samefag from >>2133536 (You))

>>2133772
>>2133788
>>2133790

Armor it is.

Writin'

also if we haven't told Sierra about operation: Sarah, we could mention it now while we work.

File: Vera&Sam_DynamicDuo.png (222 KB, 694x350)

222 KB PNG

>>2133526

Eh, you might as well get to work on Sierra's armor while she's still around; you are going to need her measurements and input after all.

So, once she's done, the two of you head down to the forge. You're about to open your mouth to start asking questions when you're interrupted by the sound of someone knocking on your front door.

Oh yeah, Sam and Vera were coming by today to pick up their order...

Asking for Sierra to give you a moment, you head to the storefront to let in the two mercenaries.

"Thought you forgot about us, John," Vera gives you a cheeky elbow to the side as she walks in.

"As long as you've got the coin, I wouldn't forget," Is your response, "Give me a sec while I grab your stuff".

"Customers of yours?" Sierra questions as you walk back into the forge and grab the crate you put their order into.

With a small huff, you easily lift the box in one hand and grab the Bastard sword in the other, "Yep. I'll be back in a minute".

"Alright, here's your order," Placing the crate on the floor, you lay out the sword, buckler, and throwing knives along the counter.

"Wow..." Vera runs her hand along the sword as Sam picks up the buckler and looks it over.

"Tell Ryouma that I'll be both impressed and pissed if he manages to break that sword," You smile as you casually push the knives towards them as well, "I'm sure he'll enjoy the gift either way".

"Yeah," The redhead scratches her cheek, "You did some damn good work, John; can't say thank you enough".

> You have lost: 1 Excellent Quality Bastard Sword (Base), 1 Great Quality Iron Buckler, 5 Great Quality Throwing Knives!
> You have gained: 1 Gold, 5 Silver, and 15 Copper!

"Have a good day!" The two ladies shout out to you as they leave, you flip the sign back to 'closed' then head back to the workshop.

"So, let's talk armor," Heading over to the workbench, you pull out a sheet of paper and an ink quill to start sketching out a design, "What are you thinking of?"

Sierra thinks about it for a moment before responding:
> Light Armor (Better mobility and weight, can be made to be worn underneath clothing)
> Medium Armor (Better protection, more room for add-ons)

>>2133833

Also, shop status:

SHOP CONDITION:
Infrastructure: Functioning
Power: 10/96 Units
Water: Hot and Cold
Heat: Online
Fuel: 28 Units
Iron Ingots: 73 Units
Silver Ingots: 0 Units
Active Contracts: 1
Inventory: 3 Good Quality Silvered Bayonets, 4 Good Quality Silvered Daggers (Base), 5 Great Quality Silvered Halberd Heads, 4 Excellent Quality Silvered Halberd Heads, 7 Great Quality Silvered Spear Heads, 3 Great Quality Silvered Broadswords (Base)
Coins on hand: 1 Gold, 26 Silver, 60 Copper
Coins in bank: 11 Gold
Cost of Water per Month: 50 Copper
Cost of Food per Month: 20 Silver
Cost of Fuel per Month: 0
Cost of Ingots per Month: 0
Cost of Rent per Month: Paid Off
Income for the Month: 1 Gold, 5 Silver, 15 Copper
Cost of Income tax for the Month: 10 Silver, 52 Copper

>>2133833
light armour

>>2133833
I think I'll go for
>Light Armor
considering our experience of getting jumped in our civvies. In fact we might want to consider doing some reinforced clothes for ourselves...

>>2133845
I agree with this

>>2133837
>>2133845
>>2133851

Light armor it is.

Next choice:
> Basic Light Armor
> Powered Light Armor

>>2133853
lets go POWER

>>2133853
powered

>>2133853
Powered by one of the manacrystals, I suppose? As a mage Sierra should be able to fill them up as required, but what are the downsides, aside from doing something we have little experience with (aside from the gloves)?

>>2133833
>> Light Armor (Better mobility and weight, can be made to be worn underneath clothing)

>>2133859

Downside is that it's more expensive and harder to make.

>>2133853
>> Powered Light Armor

>>2133857
>>2133858
>>2133859
>>2133862

Powered it is.

> Roll me three 1d100+12's for blueprinting please

>>2133861
oh hell, let's do it. Hopefully the lady doesn't mean being the test pilot for our little skunkworks

Rolled 65 + 12 (1d100 + 12)

>>2133865

Rolled 73 + 12 (1d100 + 12)

>>2133865

Rolled 27 + 12 (1d100 + 12)

>>2133865

>>2133869

85, Success.

Writin'

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843 KB PNG

>>2133867
>doesn't mean
doesn't mind

>>2133833

> You have crafted: Powered Light Armor Blueprint!

"So, what am I looking at here?" You don't blame Sierra for her confusion, as you pretty much rapid-fired questions at her while sketching.

"Well, the base is a Light Armor you'll be able to wear underneath your clothing. Aside from that, there's a few additions I'd like to try out" Looking over your work again, you make a few corrections.

The elf, to her credit, doesn't seem too put off by the fact that you're going to be testing things out on her, "And those 'additions' are?"

You think about it for a moment; considering you're working with a Light Armor base, you'll probably only have room to one additional feature to it. You've got a few ideas, though you're going to have to choose one...
> Mana Relay: A series of mana crystals and conduits at various points in the armor will give the wearer an additional pool of mana to work with and better regeneration.
> Mana Amps: Mana amplifiers inlaid along the armor's gauntlets will multiply the effects of the caster's spells at an increased mana cost.
> Leg Servos: Several robotic devices within the armor's grieves aid the wearer, allowing greater mobility and movement.

>>2133898
>Leg Servos: Several robotic devices within the armor's grieves aid the wearer, allowing greater mobility and movement.
While buffing her magic is tempting, I feel like giving her a bit of a physical edge is overall benefitial

>>2133898
>leg servos

can this help her stand up straight when shes focusing?

>>2133898
Hmm... leg servos sound like they could - if not out of the box, then through upgrades at later point - be able to keep her going even if she passed out to use her telepathy.

On the other hand she wanted the amp as an alternative to armour, right? Might give her both at the same time.

>>2133905
>>2133908

She only passes out while using her Telepathy. As for using the leg servos to keep her upright, I guess you could have them lock in place. It would really just result in Sierra falling on her face while trying to send a message; there's a reason why she doesn't try to use it standing up.

>>2133909
ehh my point stands [ba dum tssssssssss]

lets keep the vote

>>2133902
>>2133905
>>2133908

Alright, Leg Servos it is.

And I'm fairly certain that everyone is fine with utilizing more material for better quality. By the by, I've adjusted the bonus so that it is a 100% increase to material cost from 20%. The good side to the change is that you no long have to roll for creating the alloy.

> Roll me three 1d100+29's for the armor frame please

Rolled 78 + 29 (1d100 + 29)

>>2133915

Rolled 96 + 29 (1d100 + 29)

>>2133915

>>2133909
so you're saying this suit of armour will not have such functionality, now or later? I suppose it would also need to be sufficiently autonomous to work properly without turning her into an easy target.

Servos seem still tempting for reasons >>2133902
said but I'm worried about possibility of malfunction and necessity for servicing.

Kinda leaning towards the amps now.

Rolled 55 + 29 (1d100 + 29)

>>2133921
nevermind
>>2133915

>>2133921

I'll put it this way, if you were to make is so that the armor Sierra's wear would hold her up, then she'd be standing around still for the minute or so needed to send the message. After that, if you were to try to make armor that would be able to walk her around/into cover, at that point you might as well just do what John did all the way back in thread 1 and throw her over your shoulder while she's uncon.

>>2133919

That is a 125, Great Success.

As a bit of a behind the scenes, for determining item quality I take the result minus 40 (125 - 40 = 85) and then use the degrees of success (8) to figure out the quality.

8 degrees is the range of Excellent Quality, and you're spending the extra resources to make it even better.

Congrats on making your first Mastercraft Quality item guys.

Writin'

>>2133932
Well, the difference is that if she has a semi autonomous power suit that will carry her John can carry some additional loot.

Also that she can do it when there's nobody around to carry her. For instance to tell John to haul ass and help her.

>>2133898

After deciding on what you'll be adding on, you get to work on making the base that everything will be working off of as well as the armor parts of it.

The process is a long one, as you rapidly move between the forge, the anvil, and Sierra herself to double check that your measurements are correct. You rather quickly lose track of time, as the work takes up your entire attention and you are building an entire set of armor.

The result though, even you're a bit surprised at how it turns out...

> You have lost: 30 Units of Iron!

> You have crafted: 1 Mastercraft Quality Powered Light Armor (Base)!

Sierra quickly tries it on to confirm that it does in fact fit. It also is barely noticeable in her slightly baggy clothing, much to your satisfaction. You still need to do some more work on it so she won't be walking out of here in it, but all in all you're proud of what you've made.

She gives you a quick kiss goodbye as a time check tells her that she needs to go get ready for work, which you end up making somewhat moot as you escort her through the city to make sure nothing happens.

Nothing does, thankfully, and you head back to your shop. The fire is still calmly burning away in the forge as you return and look over the armor.

You could probably make and install the leg servos, but you doubt that you'll be able to power them with the Tiny Mana Crystal you still have lying around; you're going to have to make a run to your supplier at some point...

Now what?
> Work on the Leg Servos
> Go make a supply run
> Go somewhere (where?)
> Find someone (who?)
> Other

>>2133958
>Go make a supply run
Let`s stock up on some magi tech supplies and get some back up iron/silver. Make sure we have enough to get started on a robotic drone and/or any other side project

>>2133958
Do some work on the drives while the forge's still warm, and add the power source to the shopping list...

>>2133958
>>2133965
Support

>>2133965
>>2133972

Work on making the Servos it is.

> Roll me three 1d100+22's for smithing please.

Rolled 15 + 22 (1d100 + 22)

>>2133988

Rolled 73 + 22 (1d100 + 22)

>>2133988

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1003 KB JPG

Rolled 62 + 22 (1d100 + 22)

>>2133988

>>2133998

95, Great Success.

Now:
> Roll me three 1d100+19's for assembly please

Rolled 84 + 19 (1d100 + 19)

>>2134000

Rolled 100 + 19 (1d100 + 19)

>>2134000

File: 1302114963734.jpg (134 KB, 602x864)

134 KB JPG

Rolled 93 + 19 (1d100 + 19)

>>2134000

>>2134008

That's a nat 100.

Well, not much I can give you on this one.

Writin'

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>>2134008
>it's alive!

>>2134011
There's always options.

>(random) epiphany
>interesting customer demanding entry
>we drop a gear that falls between boards of the floor, revealing a previously hidden trapdoor

>>2133958

Well, the forge is still hot, might as well continue working. So, grabbing some more iron from your slightly reduced supply, you hop to.

You're really glad that you made those fine-work tools previously, as they're exactly what you need as you make the tiny mechanisms. If you were dealing with heavier armor, or any armor that isn't supposed to be worn under your clothing, you could probably make something larger but this is not that kind of project.

The process definitely gives you some ideas for going forwards, especially as you begin piecing the servos together and start implementing them directly into the grieves.

Now, all you need for finishing the armor is the power source itself.

> You have lost: 5 Units of Iron!

The armor is definitely shaping up, though.

Now what?
> Work on something else
> Make a supply run
> Go somewhere (where?)
> Find someone (who?)
> Other

>>2134034

I suppose you're getting an ephiphany then, since you'll get some skill levels upon finishing your next long rest.

>>2134041
still heat in the forge if so start on our Armour if not supply run

>>2134037
>supply run

>>2134044
yeah let`s work on our armor, no need to waste fuel, supply run afterwards

>>2134037
Guess it's time to go shopping.

What was on the list?

>check in dragon's lair if Goo Hwi is around (that shouldn't take up much time considering it's close by)
>make appointment with Archmage

>power source for servos (for Sierra's armour and for other projects like Spiderbot)
>check if there's any silver available so we can make some bullets and maybe a shank for Dutch
>mics and speakers for comlinks
>computer to help investigating the precursor CPU and in the future perhaps also to serve as hub for our comlinks and security system
>any other parts we need for the spiderbot - maybe optical sensors if we don't want to spend the precursor bot one on it, ditto with a controller unit
>maybe make arrangement to replenish fuel and iron stockpiles?

am I forgetting anything?

>>2134058
actually if the forge is still going we can squeeze some work on this >>2134044

>>2134037
> Make a supply run

>>2134037
>>2134058
Supporting

>>2134072
>>2134069
>>2134058
>>2134048

Supply run it is.

Writin'

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416 KB PNG

>>2134037

Yeah, might as well go for a supply run now before it gets too late out. Grabbing your sword and your coins, you lock up the shop and head out.

It's only an hour or so before sundown, but that's still good enough as you make your way to the Water District without an issue.

Your supplier, Iwai, looks as unaffected by the current evens in Shirahoro as ever, still calmly smoking as you enter with his feet up.

He looks happy that you're here, probably because of how much you spent last time you were in the shop.

> MANA STORAGE CRYSTAL: Tiny - 2 silver, Small - 5 silver, Medium - 15 silver, Large - 40 silver
> MANA CONDUIT: Tiny - 10 silver, Small - 25 silver, Medium - 50 silver, Large - 80 silver
> MANA CONVERTER: Tiny - 1 silver, Small - 3 silver, Medium - 10 silver, Large - 25 silver
> INSULATOR: 50 copper per square foot
> CONDUCTOR: 30 copper per square foot

What are you buying?
> Write in

> This is the last update for tonight, gonna be busy in a bit. See you all tomorrow.

>>2134180

well what do we need to finish sierra's armor and do the other stuff? You're the only one who knows OP.

Is medium storage crystal enough to power the suit? Or do we need more smaller ones to replicate the power source we use in the shop? How much of the other stuff do we need? And I suppose we're going to have to brows other stores for the sound and computer systems...

in any case cheers for running

>>2134180
We should probably get the largest mana crystal that could fit on the lower back of the armor without being bulky and some smaller ones on the leg joints, some conduit to connect them, and some mana converters as well.

>>2134180
I assume we are just gonna take the money we need out of the bank account.
MANA STORAGE CRYSTAL: 10xTiny - 2 silver, 4xSmall - 5 silver, 4xMedium - 15 silver, 2xLarge - 40 silver Total: 180silver
MANA CONDUIT: 2xTiny - 10 silver, 2xSmall - 25 silver, 2xMedium - 50 silver, 2xLarge - 80 silver Total: 330silver
MANA CONVERTER: 5xTiny - 1 silver, 5xSmall - 3 silver, 4xMedium - 10 silver,2x Large - 25 silver Total:110silver
+Insulator and conductor for 5silver each

So we total at 630silver which is quite a lot of money but it will keep us supplied for the foreseeable future, we are also gonna get a bunch of new money soon. Let`s also buy optic sensors, microphones and speakers + computers if available.

>>2136022
Supporting!