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>>2165266

"If I remember right, I mentioned that I was thinking of holding some kind of meeting at my shop," Walking into the room, you take your usual seat off to the side as Archmage finishes the page he's on, "Well, that's happening tomorrow night if you're interested".

"Huh," He pushes the book he was reading to the side, "Can't say I'm not interested, John. What time?"

"Around and after dinner; it's really more of a 'show up and talk' kind of thing that any serious meeting," You shrug at the look the mage gives you, "If you were expecting more from an impromptu meeting at a workshop I don't know where you got the idea".

"Right..." Archmage sighs, scratching his head, "Who else is going?"

You go to answer before hesitating. You doubt Goo Hwi and Sierra's presence at this meeting is really going to cause an issue with the mafia mage; Sun, being a Councilor and the Head of the Main Bastion, is a completely different story.

Knowing him, he's probably already aware that you're inviting people of less than reputable disposition, but who knows how Archmage is going to react to the knowledge that one of the biggest players in Shirahoro will be showing up.

Your response?
> Tell him about Sun's involvement
> Leave out Sun's involvement

>>2165305
>I need you to trust me and leave any goons away or outside, because sun is showing up and I hope you respect neutral ground like I think you do

>>2165305
> Tell him about Sun's involvement

would there be any benefit whatsoever in hiding this from him?

Unless we expect Genovese to take this as opportunity to assasinate him, or stage a false flag to endear themselves to him. In either case, let's stay honest on our part.

>>2165305
> Tell him about Sun's involvement

>>2165311
>>2165313
>>2165345

Don't do anything stupid.

Writin'

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>>2165305

As nervous as you are at the fact that you'll be giving the Genovese time to do something if they so wish, you don't want this to be a surprise.

Besides, Sun's a big boy; you're sure he can take care of himself.

"Look, Archmage, I need you to not only trust me, but I need you to respect the fact that my shop is neutral ground," Looking up, you and him lock gazes, "Because Sun Woo, the Head of the Main Bastion, is going to be there. Considering that, you need to keep any goon squads out of the way or non existent".

There's a silence between you two, the mage clearly thinking things over.

"Alright..." After a few seconds, Archmage nods, "I'll have to talk to the Don about this; if he prohibits me from going I'll be sure to let you know".

"I suppose that's as much as I can as for," Sitting back a bit as you relax, "Next thing isn't quite as much of an issue: Do you happen to know the Rune for Conjure Fire?"

At your question, the man freezes in the middle of reaching for something else. He turns to you with a concerned expression, "John, you know that's a restricted spell in urban areas for a reason, right?"

"I do; I don't plan on burning down any buildings with it though".

Archmage is silent, looking at you in disbelief, "What do you plan on using it for?"

Thinking it over, you don't mind letting him know what you've got planned, "From what little we know so far, fire and silver are the best ways to deal with these vamps; unfortunately, silver is in very short supply currently and I can't cast magic outside of what I already know. I'm going to work on incorporating that rune into the blades of weapons so I can have effective weapons that don't rely on a limited supply of material".

Once again, you two have a stare down as the mage considers what to do next, "I'll give you the diagram under the conditions that you didn't get this from me and that you make a sword with that effect for us".

Your response?
> Deal
> No Deal

>>2165476
That sounds fair.

>>2165476
> Deal

>>2165476
>deal

of course, payment is required for materials spent, but nothing of profit. have dutch pick it up

>>2165476
> A sword? Us?

> Sounds like two swords. On for you personally and one for whomever you want protected.

> Give me the requirments and measurement's of the people the swords are for and I'll make something that hot as hell even before adding magic.

Advertising + get an extra little favour.

>>2165476
>> Deal
"If anybody asks where I got it I'll tell em I got it from drinking with a wandering mage. Any preference on what sword you want?"

>>2165501

Archmage doesn't use weapons.

>>2165481
>>2165493
>>2165498
>>2165530
>>2165501

Deal it is.

Writin'

>>2165476


"Deal," Reaching across the table, the two of you shake on the agreement. Archmage starts scribbling out the rune on a piece of paper while you think about what you just verbally signed off on, "Who's getting the sword anyways?"

"Gladiator is," Without looking up at you, he finishes the diagram and hands it over to you, "Remember, you didn't get this from me".

> You have obtained: Conjure Fire Rune Blueprint!

"Yep, don't know where I got it from," Tucking the extremely valuable piece of paper into your pocket, you consider one other question on this topic, "You have any idea what kind of sword he'd want?"

"He mainly uses a longsword, but any one-handed sword will do".

"I'll keep that in mind," You're about to get up and leave when you remember one more important question to ask, "Hey, Archmage, would you happen to know how to get in contact with Kaizaki, the computer guy I worked with previously?"

"Him? Well..." He searches through a few other papers in front of him, "The hiring process for him was done through the company he works for rather than personally. Because of that, I wouldn't have a way to contact him directly..."

"But..." You continue as he trails off, leaning forwards to express your interest.

Archmage glances up to you, "He's mentioned that he enjoys drinking at a bar called 'Eden Hall' from time to time. Unfortunately, I doubt he'll be going there until this issue with the vampires is dealt with. Now, unless you have something else you'd like to talk about..."

Now what?
> Wish Archmage goodbye, leave
> Ask Archmage something else (what?)
> Other

>>2166026
>> Wish Archmage goodbye, leave

>>2166026
>peter Falk face

>one more thing, have you by any chance heard anything new about the Gambino excavation?

>>2166026

> Wish Archmage goodbye, leave
>Go buy some chairs and a table or something.

>>2166026
>> Wish Archmage goodbye, leave

>>2166070
This as fuck.

>>2166026
> Ask Archmage something else (what?)

What runes he CAN give us and what they would cost. A farsightedness rune would be simpler than reverse engineering scopes.

>>2166070
this

>>2166026

>>2166073
I'll sub out this for

This >>2166070

If that's alright.

Maybe the vampires are related to the other ruin dive somehow.
>>2167432
I'd be interested in this, but the services we might need to render in return could tie us to the mafia too closely
Captcha dual route

>>2168492
Possible

>inb4 train girl is now a vampire.

>>2168492
Dude all we're doing is asking the price. Pay up front, cash if we have to.

Sun even is working with the mafia. Avoiding them entirely is a silly choice.

>>2170490
No, he's working with US. He trusts us enough to meet up with the mafia to deal with this problem. There is a difference.

>>2172525
Not in any court there isn't. "I was working with Person A, who was working with Person B who happened to also be there at the time."

He's working with the Mafia because of us.

>>2168506

Only time will tell.

>>2170490

>>2170490
>>2172525

While not heavily touched upon, Sun is a member of the oligarchy that runs Shirahoro. Anything less than murder, rape, or conspiracy against the Emperor of the city is going to get dismissed in the court

>>2166053
>>2166070
>>2166074
>>2166885
>>2167535
>>2167940

One last question then we're gone.

Writin'

>>2166026

"Actually," Now that he mentions it, there is one thing in particular you should ask about, "Have you had any luck tracking down that Gambino site I asked about? I've tried using more above the board avenues to find it, but they never put it on the books..."

"I have been looking into it," Adjusting his glasses, Archmage looks over a few papers, "Whoever was working on hiding the site did a good job, but I have a few tricks up my sleeve. I should be hearing from a contact tomorrow, and with that information I should be able to track the place down. I'll let you know when I find something out".

"Got it, that's all".

Thanking the man for his time, you hurry out of the Genovese HQ building after checking your time.

Moving quickly without outright running, you make solid time from the Water District to the Earth District; you get a few looks but thankfully none of them are outright hostile.

Within minutes, your little shop comes into view. What also comes into view is Sierra and Ryouma, with a shiny new bastard sword at his side, casually talking outside the door.

"-as this tiny to- Oh, there you are," Sierra notices you first, and the two of them turn to regard you as your approach.

Your response?
> "Sorry for being late"
> "Wasn't expecting to see you Ryouma"
> "Having a good chat?"
> Other

>>2174562
>other
What's tiny?

>>2174562
"I hope you were not referring to me as tiny my friends seeing as I'm taller than most of you, how are you?"

>>2174562
> "Sorry for being late"
> "Wasn't expecting to see you Ryouma"

>>2174562
>> "Sorry for being late"

>>2174562
Sorry for being late, nice to see you!

Not coming to file a complaint I hope? (Grin)

>>2174468
> Sun can excuse our actions with the mafia

That's what I heard.

>>2174562
>Sorry for being late.
>Wasn’t expecting to see you Ryouma.

Hope everyone had a good Christmas. Sorry for the delay, but I'm back now.

>>2175963

Technically, yes. Also, technically, you really won't be hounded for being involved with the Genovese so long as it's not murder, rape, sentient trafficking, arson, etc etc. TL;DR no one is going to give a shit so long as you don't do something extremely stupid.

>>2174573
>>2174579
>>2174671
>>2174734
>>2175151
>>2176098

What's going on?

Writin'

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>>2174562

"Tiny?" With a thin smile, you walk up and ruffle Sierra's hair a bit, "Hope you're not talking about me, considering I'm taller than you".

"No, h-hey!" Laughing, the elf tries to swat your hand away with minimal success.

Giving her one last scratch, you turn to the merc, "Wasn't expecting to see you here Ryouma".

"You did ask me to stop by if I learned anything about those friends of yours," Ryouma looks bemused at your antics, though his words do give you pause.

"Right, I did," Reaching into your pocket, you fish out your key and head over to the door to your shop, "Sorry for being late then".

The three of you walk in, Ryouma looking around as you head for the counter, "It wasn't any issue. I was actually having a really interesting talk with Sierra here; didn't realize she was a Badlands Fixer".

"Seems like that was ages ago even if it was only a few months ago," Sierra leans against the counter before motioning to you, "That's actually where I met John".

"Really?" He looks between the two of you and you shrug as you stand behind the counter.

"I was a bit of a wanderer back then; was more of a coincidence that I ran into Sierra back in that town. Anyways, what do you have for me?" Drumming your fingers against the counter top, you eye the dark-haired mercenary.

"Well..." Ryouma scratches his cheek nervously, doing nothing for your nerves, "I did some poking around the guilds with those names you gave me..."

"And?" You lean forward, staring intently at the man.

"Most of the people I talked to refused to comment on the group, but I managed to get a few to say that they've been missing for months. Apparently the group went out on some private job and never came back".

Your response?
> "...son of a bitch"
> "Thanks, I'll talk to you later"
> Silently simmer
> Other

>>2178118
Interesting... maybe Gambinos cleaned them up? What do you think?

In any case, thanks for the information. Is there anything I can do you for while youre here?

>>2178118
> "Thanks, I'll talk to you later"

>>2178118
>Thanks, I’ll talk to you later.

>>2178139
>>2178134
>>2178125

Thanks for the info have a good day.

Writin'

>>2178118

"Thanks Ryouma," Composing yourself as best you can, you smile at the man, "Is there anything else I can help you with today?"

"No, I gotta run. We'll talk some other time," With a wave, the merc leaves your shop.

For a moment, you just stare at the counter as the new information burns away at you. If no one has heard from them in months, then that mea-

"Something wrong, John?" Sierra snaps you out of your thoughts, reminding you that she's still here.

Your response?
> "Possibly" (Explain the situation)
> "Probably not" (Gloss over it)

>>2178180
>Possibly

>>2178180
>> "Possibly" (Explain the situation)

>>2178180
>> "Possibly" (Explain the situation)

...all the more reason to get you your new outfit. There you go... looking good... and the armor too.

>>2178180
>Possibly

>>2178207
>>2178199
>>2178195
>>2178184

Mafia work is fun.

Writin'

>>2178180

"Possibly," Sighing and rubbing your brow, you turn to fully regard the elf, "Just another reason to get you your armor; c'mon".

Motioning Sierra into the workshop, you head over to the crate with the completed armor in it, "You remember that team of mercs that tried to kill us during the entire train fiasco on the way to Shirahoro?"

"The ones you convinced to hold off or the security team you shot up?" She questions as she takes off her shirt to put on the under suit.

"You do remember," Grinning slightly, you double check your work before handing the next part of the armor over, "The ones I convinced to hold off are apparently now missing. Rather, they've been missing since the attack occurred".

You follow Sierra's motioning to turn around as she gets the leggings and grieves on, "So what do you think happened to them?"

"Considering what's happened since then," Giving a leg servo one final adjustment you hand it over your shoulder, "They'll likely dead somewhere. I even told the stupid bastards they were walking straight into a trap; they must have done it anyways".

There's a few moments of silence, then a very intentional sounding 'oops' comes from behind you as two warm arms wrap around you. "Sorry, going to take some getting used to with this," Sierra certainly doesn't sound remorseful as she rests her head against your shoulder.

Turning around, you take advantage of the close-proximity to make sure everything is in order and that the power source is working properly. Low and behold it's not, "This is Powered Armor; emphasis on the power".

"And this is why you're the Artificer and I'm the Mage, isn't it?" She blinks up at you with those dark, green eyes.

You just smirk at her and ruffle her hair again, "Don't worry, I made the complicated bits so easy even an elf can figure out how to use them".

That gets a lovely pout out of Sierra which you enjoy the view of for a moment before leaning down and convincing her to change her expression. The two of you remain locked together, simply relishing the feeling before having to pull away.

"Are you just going to cheat your way out of every conversation now?" That elicits a chuckle out of you, one that she eventually mirrors.

The quiet moment is somewhat ruined by the sound of someone opening up the front door.

[1/2]

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>>2179015

[2/2]

"I should see who that is," Sierra reluctantly separates from you, taking a few cautious steps as she gets used to the servos, "And you should see about some pants".

You emphasis your point with a audible whap, casually ignoring the elf's sputtering outrage as you exit the workshop.

It's not entirely a surprise to see Dutch casually looking about the bare storefront, though you weren't expecting him either.

"Nice place you've got here," He starts, his usual grin plastered across his face, "Would be a right shame if something happened to it".

"I've got several weapons lying around just waiting to stab someone," Is your dry response, raising an eyebrow at his presence.

"C'mon, John, can't a guy visit his old pal from time to time?"

Your response?
> "Not with the amount of firepower you're carrying"
> "You've killed enough people for me to be concerned"
> "I'm calling the guards"
> Other

>>2179034
>> Other
"I've seen the damage you can cause in a shop."

I'm guessing the options are in a joking manor, otherwise John's acting weird.

>>2179034

>Just let me get the waiver.

>>2179043

It's the dry, vaguely threatening banter that John and Dutch usually engage in.

Now I'm just waiting for Dutch to notice Sierra adjusting her pants as she walks back out.

>>2179034
>"I'm calling the guards"

>>2179067

Shh

>>2179043
>>2179063
>>2179072

Fairly certain there's some form of bureaucracy for this exact situation.

Writin'

>>2179034

"I've seen the kinds of damage you can do to a shop, Dutch," Lightly glaring at him, your run hand over the counter, "So I'm either going to need you to sign a form, or I'm calling the guards".

The two of you stare at one another for several seconds before you both crack, laughing at the stupidity of the situation.

"Oh, this is just rich," Dutch mimes wiping a tear from his eye, "You seriously went and became a shop owner; I can wait to tell my folks back in Airgrid".

"You're going to do what? Tell Rishia I'm doing better than you?" You jokingly roll your eyes, "And please, you're not going to send mail back to Airgrid unless you're messaging your girlfriend".

"John..." He looks at you accusingly, "You swore we wouldn't talk about that. And you keep talking about it".

You shrug, "Not my problem you have a hard-on for blondes".

"Who has what now?" At this point Sierra comes out from the back, visibly adjusting her shirt and pants. To say Dutch has a shit-eating grin on his face at this point would be an understatement, "Oh, Dutch right? It's good to see you again".

"That's right," He lazily wraps a hand around your shoulder and half pulls you over the counter, "And I imagine we'll be seeing each other more often since you're getting along with John here. Seriously, you dog, you just bagged her here and now?"

The last part of his question is whispered harshly against your ear, her clueless expression belying the fact that Sierra didn't hear it at all.

Your response?
> "Yep"
> "Nope"
> "Not today"
> Other

>>2179121
>> "Not today"

>>2179121
>Not today.

>>2179121

> "Not today"

>>2179121
> "Not today"

>>2179121
I find it highly questionable that an elf didn't hear that, those ears ain't for show.

or is the extra hearing traded off for lewdness sense?

>>2179121
not today, and not in there. I have a bed for a reason you know.......... but then again maybe you don't

>>2179121
Dutch please show some class, there are ladies in attendance.

>>2179292
You're expecting a cowboy mob enforcer to have class around ladies?

>>2179844
stranger things have happened, but that's beside the point
the point being John would want him to, at least right in this moment.

A

B

C

>>2179123
>>2179130
>>2179137
>>2179138
>>2179266
>>2179292

Technicalities, Dutch.

Writin'

>>2179121

"Not today," Pushing off him, you give Dutch a light glare, "Besides, I have some class, unlike you apparently".

"What are you two talking about?" Sierra cuts in at this point, curiously glancing between the two of you.

Dutch is in the middle of speaking up when you slap a hand over his mouth, "Just shooting the shit; pretty much the usual for us".

You give your friend one last glare before pulling your hand away, a quiet muttering of 'spoilsport' coming from as he backs away.

"Well, I have to run for now," The elf draws your attention as she walks past, "I'll be back in time for the meeting; see you then".

With that, she closes the shop door behind her leaving the two of you alone.

"So, Dutch," Crossing your arms, you look evenly at the man, "I know you didn't come to talk about nothing. Now that we're alone, what's the issue?"

"Always the killjoy," Shaking his head, Dutch looks back up at you with a far more serious look in his eyes, "Last night we hit another vampire hideout in th city. The strange thing was that there were several normal people among them; even stranger was we found your name pop up in a few pieces of paperwork".

"Me?" You can't help but sound surprised at this news, your face scrunching up in thought, "The papers say anything else".

Dutch frowns, which isn't a good sign in your experience, "No, they didn't. The weird part is that no one we captures knew you and none of them claimed to be the one to write it down".

Your response?
> "Guess I'll see about securing the shop"
> "Want to stop by late tonight? We should run a patrol"
> "Thanks Dutch"
> Other

>>2180455
>> "Want to stop by late tonight? We should run a patrol"

>>2180455
>>"Want to stop by late tonight? We should run a patrol"

>>2180455
Seems shits coming down tonight.

>>2180488

Just realized I forgot the meeting is happening tomorrow night, not tonight. Sierra's off to work and will be back for the meeting.

>>2180462
>>2180468

Security is important.

Writin'

>>2180455

Thinking on it, you shouldn't be surprised that they've got your number, so perhaps it's time you started getting some housecleaning done.

"Want to stop by late tonight?" Taping a finger against the counter top, you glance over to the entrance to the workshop, "We should run a patrol; see if we can't clean the area a bit".

"Alright, I'll swing by," Running his hands over his guns, Dutch favors you with his usual gun-ho grin, "Gonna just be you and me; hope you haven't gotten soft in this shop".

"I'll be fine, hope you don't fall asleep if you can't kill anyone," Brushing his comments off, you fix him with a hard look, "Anyways, shouldn't you be running along now mafia man?"

"Kicking me out so soon?" He feigns hurt, dramatically sighing.

Well, it wasn't like you had much going on anyways. Although, considering the current situation, you should get to work...

Now what?
> Kick Dutch out, work in the workshop
> Invite Dutch to stay while you work
> Go somewhere with Dutch
> Other

>>2180534
> Invite Dutch to stay while you work

>>2180534
If he wants something made, he could stick around and specify. Otherwise we could get to work on our own outfit. Or flaming weapon to test the concept. Either case, his call on sticking around

>>2180548
This plus make his 'magic' bullets.

>>2180548
>>2180558
>>2180562

Stay and chat it is.

Writin'

>>2180534

"Quit your whining, you big baby," Motioning for him to follow you back into the workshop, you head over to your workbench, "I don't care if you stay around, but I do need to get to work on some projects if you don't mind".

"Ooh, I get to watch the master at work," Snagging the stool from in front of you, Dutch casually sits on it and smirks at you like a cat, "Well, I'm waiting for my entertainment now".

"Try not to fall asleep," Turning to the forge, you gather your tools and considering what to work on first.
> Work on Dutch's rifle
> Work on hollow-point ammo for Dutch's revolvers
> Work on your grenade launcher design
> Work on your armor
> Work on another project
> Other

>>2180572
>Work on hollow-point ammo for Dutch’s revolvers.
>Work on Dutch’s rifle.

>>2180572
>>Work on hollow-point ammo for Dutch’s revolvers.
>>Work on Dutch’s rifle.

>>2180582
>>2180595

Hollow-point first it is.

> Roll me three 1d100+27's please

Rolled 49 + 27 (1d100 + 27)

>>2180616
I miss my 1d100 rolls...

Rolled 69 + 27 (1d100 + 27)

>>2180616

Rolled 26 + 27 (1d100 + 27)

>>2180640
>>2180650

Rolling to see if we get a 1.

Also:
> Roll me three 1d100+10's for working on the rifle.

Rolled 31 + 27 (1d100 + 27)

>>2180713

Rolled 39 + 27 (1d100 + 27)

>>2180713

Rolled 32 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>2180713

>>2180738

That's a 49, Bare Success.

Writin'

>>2180572

Firing up the forge, you look over your tools and consider what to work on first. Grabbing your fine-work and gunsmithing tools, you decide to start by making some specialty rounds for Dutch's normal revolvers. Fishing out the round he gave to you for this exact purpose, you get to work on making as many of the devilish rounds as you can.

> You have lost: 2 Units of Iron!

After some work, mostly fixing together a few molds to properly form the specialty bullets, you set the metal to cool before next beginning work on the rifle design.

That takes far, far longer as you have to dig up that old design you made so many months ago and work on improving upon the blueprint.

> You have lost: 4 Units of Iron!

Once the rounds are done, you've just barely gotten the barrel of the absolutely massive rifle made. This project is going to take you far longer than you initially anticipated.

Double-checking to make sure everything turned out properly, you dump two dozen hollow-point rounds into Dutch's waiting hands, "Now, these should play merry hell on anything not armored, but I don't think they'll do well against anything with armor. Just keep that in mind".

"I will," He shoves the finished product into a pouch before standing up, "As fun as it's been to watch you fuck about with a hammer for several hours, I do need to take care of a few things back with the big boys".

"Have fun, don't let the door hit your ass on the way out".

With your final comment, Dutch heads out and leaves the shop, leaving you by yourself in the workshop. A quick time check tells you that you still have a few hours before dinner.

Now what?
> Continue working on the rifle
> Work on your grenade launcher design
> Work on your armor
> Work on another project
> Go somewhere (where?)
> Find someone (who?)
> Other

>>2180809
> Continue working on the rifle
Gotta finish what we started.

>>2180809
>Continue working on the rifle
Finish what we started. Plus if we work fast he'll be able to use it tonight

>>2180809
>> Continue working on the rifle

>>2180826
>>2180827
>>2180831

Rifle it is.

> Roll me three 1d100+27's please

Rolled 51 + 27 (1d100 + 27)

>>2180833

Rolled 33 + 27 (1d100 + 27)

>>2180833

Rolled 92 + 27 (1d100 + 27)

>>2180833

>>2180942
Rifle secured. Good job anon.

>>2180942

That's a 119, Success.

Writin'

>>2180809

At this point, you might as well continue working on the rifle. You might just have enough time to finish it before tonight is up.

Continuing where you left off with the barrel, you do far better on the second time around as you make a few minor adjustments to ensure that the entire thing won't explode upon firing.

From there, you get to work on constructing the framework for the entire rifle.

> You have lost: 2 Units of Iron!

Unfortunately, you don't have the ability to make any kind of sight for the rifle aside from an iron, though you do try to make it as effective as you can; Dutch'll have to work with it from there.

Either way, you finish assembling the frame and grab your Multitool.

Now, time to make the clockwork mechanisms necessary to make this thing work.
> Roll me three 1d100+34's for smithing the components and three 1d100+54's for assembling everything please.

Rolled 88 + 34 (1d100 + 34)

>>2181938
components

Rolled 80 + 34 (1d100 + 34)

>>2181938

Rolled 11 + 54 (1d100 + 54)

>>2181938

Rolled 39 + 54 (1d100 + 54)

>>2181938
other thing

Rolled 3 + 34 (1d100 + 34)

>>2181938

Rolled 96 + 54 (1d100 + 54)

>>2181938

Alright, so we have:
>>2181944
122
And
>>2181981
150.

Success and Success.

Writin'

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>>2181938

It's been a while since you worked on any kind of clockwork mechanism, but you pick it back up with ease.

You lose track of time as you work, but that's not a concern to you as you liberally utilize all of your tools to construct the firing mechanism and assemble the entire weapon like one intricate puzzle.

> You have lost: 1 Unit of Iron!

Running your fingers along the barrel and double checking the clockwork to make sure it won't jam easily, you take the massive rifle and lay it down on the workbench.

> You have crafted: 1 Excellent Quality Anti-Material Rifle!

After grabbing a quick bite to eat, you decide on making a few rounds to go with it; if you want Dutch to use it you are going to need to make the bullets it'll be firing.

So, you spend the remaining time before your friend arrives forging as much as you can.

> You have lost: 3 Units of Iron!

Admittedly, it's not much and it's not silvered, but at least you made some progress before you hear him knock on the front door before entering.

"I'm in the back," You call out to him as you finish the last round.

"Alright, I'm all geared up and re- What the fuck?" Turning around, you see Dutch freeze at the entrance to the workshop, his eyes locked onto the finished rifle and he slowly approaches it.

"I told you I was working on something unique," Gathering up the bullets, you walk over to where your friend is doing his own run-down of the weapon, "It's untested, and can only fire normal rounds, but the thing should be able to punch through just about anything".

He swipes up the rounds as you drop them into his hand, "Fuckin' hell, John. I wasn't expecting something like this".

"Yeah, well, get used to it," Cleaning up a bit, you make sure everything is away and secure before wiping your hands down.

Dutch just places the rifle back down onto the workbench before turning to you, "So, are we doing this now or what?"

Now what?
> Get ready for the patrol
> Talk to Dutch about something (what?)
> Other

>>2182600
> Get ready for the patrol

>>2182600
Isn't the meeting about to happen?
I guess if we don't have to prep for it we could get strait to patrolling.

>>2182600
>Patrollin Time

Make sure we're back well before our meeting tonight though

>>2182600
Is the meeting tonight or tomorrow? If tomorrow, than we go on patrol.

>>2182623
>>2182626

I fucked up; the meeting is tomorrow night.

>>2182611
>>2182623
>>2182626

Patrol it is.

Time to armor up.

>>2182600

There's nothing else to talk to Dutch about currently; might as well just get down to business.

On his recommendation, there's a few ways you could go about this. Since he's got that shiny new rifle, Dutch could stick to the rooftops while you walk around and try to lure any enemies in the area into a trap. Alternatively, you could both stick to the rooftops; you'll be together, have height advantage, and you won't have to worry about looking helpless, but you'll also be relying on spotting hostiles while they're concealed. Lastly, the two of you could just strut around street level and see if anyone picks a fight.

Really, anyway could work, but you're going to need to pick one.
> Keep Dutch up high, wander around to try to lure any enemies into him (Recommend going lightly armed and armored as to not give away your intentions)
> Stay up high with Dutch, keep your eyes peeled for anyone looking at your place funny (Recommend staying light to keep up mobility, but armed enough to matter)
> Go low with Dutch, go to pick a fight (Recommend going fulled armed and armored)

With that in mind, you need to figure out what you'll be going out in...

Armor:
> Medium set
> Unarmored

Primary Weapon:
> Modified Clockwork Automatic Rifle (Improved Action, Folding Stock)
> Exotic Rapier (Electric)
> Broadsword
> None

On hip:
> Exotic Rapier (Electric)
> Broadsword
> Modified Pistol (Improved Sight, Silenced)
> None

Across chest:
> Modified Pistol (Improved Sight)
> Concealed Dagger

Additionally, you could bring any of the weapons you've made for your Contract with Sun. If you break or lose the weapon, however, you won't be getting paid for it.
> 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)

>>2182705
> Keep Dutch up high, wander around to try to lure any enemies into him

Armor:
> unarmored
Primary Weapon:
>Great Quality Silvered Broadsword
On hip:
>Multi-Tool
Across chest:
> Modified Pistol (Improved Sight)

An official test run of the silvered weapons seems like a good idea and no need to stir up a hornets nest before the meeting so targets of opportunity for delivery of the message that there are no guaranteed soft targets or easy prey.

>>2182785
This, but medium armor. Don't want to get mauled now do we...

>>2182785
Seconding this.

>>2182815
Going with New Fag on this one

>>2182815
Support

Oh, we need to keep in mind the vamps like to roof hop. So even though we are the bait Dutch is going to be on the hunters turf.

>>2183261
Lend him one of the silver daggers and affix a bayonet?

>>2182785

I knew I was forgetting something; good catch on the Multitool.

>>2182785
>>2182815
>>2182821
>>2182846
>>2182913
>>2183261
>>2183345

Alright, so we've got.
> Medium Armor
> Silvered Broadsword
> Multitool
> Silenced Pistol

And we're letting Dutch borrow a dagger or bayonet?
> Dagger
> Bayonet

>>2183754
>And we're letting Dutch borrow a dagger or bayonet?
>> Dagger
>> Bayonet

Both. Dagger on side, bayonet on the rifle.
He's giving these back for sure though, they're government property.

>>2183754
Why not both?
Put a bayonet on the gun and give him a dagger to hold/put somewhere.
If we can't do both just give him the bayonet

>>2183754
>Whynotboth.jpg

Rolled 76, 41, 98 = 215 (3d100)

>>2183759
>>2183760
>>2183762

The rifle you made doesn't have a mount for a bayonet. You could just duct tape it to the barrel; so if both is what you want then both is what you'll get.

Give me a second while I roll for entirely unrelated things...

Rolled 72, 91, 54, 91, 37 + 10 = 355 (5d100 + 10)

>>2183769

Hmm, those are some very interesting numbers...

Don't mind me again.

Rolled 6, 3 = 9 (2d6)

>>2183770

Hmm hmm this'll be interesting.

One last set of rolls.

File: 1383039116765.gif (994 KB, 500x279)

994 KB GIF

>>2183769
>all those 90s

File: DontyoutrustMe.png (44 KB, 500x500)

44 KB PNG

>>2183775

I don't know what the issue is, these rolls have nothing to do with anything.

At all.

Oh, and I'm back to writin' now.

>>2182705

"Err..." You don't need to see Dutch's face to know he's a bit confused at the little 'addition' you made to his weapon, "Are you sure this is going to work, John? It's not going to throw off my aim or anything, but I'm still a bit iffy on it".

"It's duct tape, Dutch," Adjusting the strap of your armor to make sure it's sitting properly, you grab your cloak and the silvered broadsword you hastily slapped the grip from your normal broadsword, "The shit'll hold long enough to matter. Besides, you've got the dagger as back up in case shit goes down".

"If shit goes down, I'm pulling my revolvers out," He gives the rifle one last look over as you slip your Multitool against your hip and your modified pistol into your chest holster.

"Whatever, you're probably not going to have an issue anyways," Adjusting your cloak to make sure your gear is as hidden as it's going to be, you gesture towards your backdoor, "Stay up high on the rooftops; I'll walk around and see if anyone wants to take the bait".

With one last nod, Dutch files out while you lock the door behind the two of you. From there, your friend slings the rifle over his shoulder and shimmies up to the roof before giving you a thumbs up.

With the slight comfort of your most trusted friend watching your back from the shadows, you turn and try to figure out where to head towards first.

Now what?
> Head deeper into the back alleys
> Head closer towards the main street
> Walk a circle around the shop
> Other

As a reminder:
> Silvered Broadsword: 3d100+5
> Multitool: 3d100
> Modified Pistol: 3d100+5

>>2184361
Around the shop. Although I wonder how good a bait are we going to make in the armor...

>>2184361
> Head deeper into the back alleys

>>2184361
>back alleys

>>2184432
>>2184439

Back Alleys it is.

> Roll me three 1d100+15's please

Rolled 65 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>2184447

File: surrounded.jpg (139 KB, 750x600)

139 KB JPG

Rolled 27 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>2184447

Rolled 56 (1d100)

>>2184447
#BeTheBait

>>2184455

That's an 80, let's see what you see.

Writin'

Rolled 63, 7, 2 + 10 = 82 (3d100 + 10)

>>2184522

Actually, need to roll for Dutch first...

so how ded are we

>>2184630

This won't hurt. Much.

>>2184361

After a bit of thought, you decide on heading deeper into the dark alleys. If anyone sinister is around, they're probably not going to be any where near anyone else.

Plus, if things turn into a firefight, you don't to risk potential collateral damage from random people running through the crossfire.

With that in mind, you stake off in the quiet night. The dark, dirt alleys are empty sans you and the vague shadow that is Dutch leaping from roof to roof keeping up with you.

Some time later, and you're not seeing anyone at all. It's... extremely unnerving that there's absolutely no one around.

That, however, changes when you enter into a small courtyard of sorts and an extremely familiar shape materializes from the shadows.

"You..." Turning to regard the newcomer, who you immediately recognize as the female vampire you've had two previous run-ins with, "John... John Hoelscher. That is your filthy name".

Striding out into the open night air, you can see that she's definitely changed a bit. Gone is the heavy, hooded robe; in it's place is dark leather armor that doesn't hide her at all. For the first time, you get a good, hard look at the rose-haired woman you stares you back down as she draws her usual curved sword. She still looks disturbingly attractive, but gone is the sheer violence from her eyes, replaced with a cold hatred that bores into you.

You're about to respond in kind when nine of those mindless, shambling abominations you think are called 'thralls' appear from various other corners in the area. They look at you with malevolent eyes and snarl, ready to tear you to pieces with their claws. Once again, your next course of action is interrupted by something unexpected.

"No!" The thralls growl as they all look over towards the woman, who glares at them, "His head is mine! You all..."

Your blood goes slightly cold as she looks up behind you where you know Dutch is hiding, "Go tear him to pieces".

And that's exactly when the courtyard explodes into violence, your broadsword instinctively flying into your hand.

Now what?

(Main Action)
> Fight the vamp head to head
> Try to take out the Thralls
> See about making an escape

(Free Action)
> Switch weapons (Multitool or Pistol)
> Activate Adrenaline Surge

(Dutch's Action)
> Take a shot at the chick with the rifle
> Switch to Revolvers, take out the Thralls
> Bug out now, try to link back up with John

>>2184798
>Activate Adrenaline Surge

Next... if the thralls are running past us, take some swings of opportunity at them, otherwise advance onto the vampire

As for dutch, if he can squeeze a shot at nearest bogie, do it before switching onto more close combat weaponry.

>>2184846

The thralls are running around John; if he wants to attack them he needs to move up to them.

Nearest bogie is the group of nine thralls rushing to get to the building he's on top of to scale it. Dutch is only going to have time to shoot the main vampire or the thralls.

>>2184856
how do thralls and vamps work do thralls need their master to be alive or are they autonomous

>>2184878

Back during the party when John decapitated this particular vampire, the thralls in the area that entered with her seemed unaffected by that happening.

You can assume that they are obedient to higher-form vampires

>>2184798
>(Main Action)
>> Fight the vamp head to head

>(Free Action)
>> Activate Adrenaline Surge

>(Dutch's Action)
>> Switch to Revolvers, take out the Thralls

>>2184856
How about this:
>John
intercept one or more of the thralls while keeping track of the vampire
>Dutch
Shoot nearest thrall with rifle, then draw the pistols before they close in.

>>2184893
support
getting as many shots into the thralls while their bunched then take a shot at the vamp bitch then fight the rest of the thralls coming up the building

>>2184922
>>2184903
>>2184893
>>2184846

Pop Adrenaline, go in with the sword.

> Roll me three 1d100+5's please

Rolled 10, 99, 22, 44, 22, 39 + 15 = 251 (6d100 + 15)

>>2184924

[DUTCH ACTIVITY]

File: 1454034476469.jpg (134 KB, 1024x749)

134 KB JPG

Rolled 16 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>2184924

Rolled 73, 6, 23, 48, 26, 9, 7, 39 + 5 = 236 (8d100 + 5)

>>2184924

[THRALL ACTIVITY]

Rolled 62, 86, 89 + 10 = 247 (3d100 + 10)

>>2184924

[VAMP ACTIVITY]

Rolled 1 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>2184924

>>2184950
rip, banked crit

Rolled 89 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>2184924

>>2184950
fuck!!!!!!!!!

>>2184950

Uh oh, that's a nat 1. You currently have 3 FATE POINTS saved up. Utilizing a Fate Point will allow you to take that >>2184956 94 instead.

Burn 1 FP?
> Y
> N

>>2184962
y

>>2184962
Yee

at least dutch is having fun

>>2184962
> Y

>>2184962
y

not enough to beat a 99 but at least we dont get skewered

>>2184978
we have our medium Armour so it honestly should be quite minor when compared to the party fight

>>2184981
I bet the vamp girl was getting swole as well, as far as such a thing is possible

>>2184972

That he is.

>>2184981

You do have some nice armor.

>>2184991

The Nemesis system I have in place is fun, as you're going to probably find out in this fight.

It actually helped you out a shit ton in this instance because this chick being your Nemesis means she has to fight you head on rather than utilize the 101 she and her thralls got on their stealth rolls

>>2184966
>>2184967
>>2184977
>>2184978

Yes it is.

> 2 FATE POINTS REMAINING!

94 versus 99, Bare Failure.

Writin'

>>2185002
hey don't we get two actions with Adrenalin or dose that kick after we activate it?

>>2185017

It's a Free Action to activate it, next turn you get its effects.

>>2184798

Acting on reflex at this point, you channel Adrenaline Surge like Goo Hwi taught you.

In that split second, however, Dutch makes his move as you hear him open up on the thralls rushing him. One of which he gets good, as the upper half of its body explodes and staggers a few of the ones immediately around it. It also has the unintended side effect of making everything pause as the mangled corpse collapses to the ground.

"Haha, HOLY SHIT!" You hear your friend laughing maniacally over the sounds of him fanning both hammers. Several others take shots to joints and are knocked to the ground while a few other take shrapnel from the hollow-point ammunition Dutch is liberally hosing them with.

You push that out of your mind as you take advantage of the weakened thrall that stumbles towards you, lashing out and cleanly decapitating it as your broadsword cuts into it without any resistance. There's a second of disbelief on your part as you weren't expecting that, which swiftly ends as you catch a blur speeding towards you from the corner of your eye.

Unable to bring your blade around in time, you do the next best thing and interpose your reinforced chest plate between you and horrible death. There's a screech and several sparks fly as the vampire's curved sword tries to find purchase against your armor.

Thankfully, the patch job you did months ago holds and buys you the split-second it takes to catch the second attack before it gets within your guard. The two of you lock blades, her cold, red eyes boring into yours.

The stalemate is broken when she tries to lunge for your neck once more. Ducking under the attack, you knock her sword to the side and bring it around to swing it at her.

Your eyes widen as she unnaturally bends out of the way and rolls with her momentum, coming up into a fighting stance between you and Dutch.

She doesn't appear to mind your insane friend in the slightest, but that doesn't change the fact that he's not going to be able to help you without risking hitting you.

On the bright side, you feel the effects of Adrenaline Surge kicking in and you can even see the small wisps of smoke coming from your eyes and wrists.

Now what?

[Main Action. With Adrenaline Surge active, you can either take two of these or you can take one and roll with advantage. You can also choose one Main Action and one Free Action as normal)
> Continue engaging her
> Switch to attacking the thralls still on the ground
> Attempt to run

(Free Action)
> Switch weapons (Multitool or Pistol)

(Dutch's Action)
> Focus on the single thrall scaling the building
> Keep pummeling the ones on the ground
> Try hitting the chick even though John's in the line of fire
> Relocate to a new roof
> Attempt to run

>>2185074
how many thralls left two confirmed dead the others just wounded?

>>2185096

Two dead, one is halfway up the side of the building, the remaining six are lightly injured and in various states of recovering from being hit with shrapnel.

>>2185074
Attack her with advantage and have Dutch move to a new roof.

>>2185074
>> Continue engaging her
(Dutch's Action)
> Focus on the single thrall scaling the building

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>2185160
>>2185133

Unless someone else adds in, I'll be rolling for Dutch's action.
1. New roof
2. Focus fire

In the meantime, you're going for the throat.

> Roll me three 2d100+5's please

Rolled 53, 25 + 5 = 83 (2d100 + 5)

>>2185185

Rolled 51, 71, 70, 9, 62, 24 + 15 = 302 (6d100 + 15)

>>2185185

[DUTCH ACTIVITY]

Rolled 61, 34, 4, 61, 12, 69, 32 + 5 = 278 (7d100 + 5)

>>2185185

[THRALL ACTIVITY]

Rolled 31, 89 + 5 = 125 (2d100 + 5)

>>2185185

Rolled 33, 4, 87 + 10 = 134 (3d100 + 10)

>>2185185

[VAMPIRE ACTIVITY]

>>2185200

Oops, that should only be 6 dice... I'll just take the first die away then.

>>2185209
>this vamp

File: WewLads.jpg (12 KB, 225x225)

12 KB JPG

>>2185223

> mfw the minor optional boss is doing this well

>>2185243
>implying this isn't karma for cheesing the train

Rolled 100, 22 + 5 = 127 (2d100 + 5)

>>2185185

>>2185285
fucking nice lad

>>2185185

>>2185260
>>2185285
Karma says it wants a sequel.

Rolled 21, 80 + 5 = 106 (2d100 + 5)

>>2185185

>>2185260

Implying there hasn't been karma for cheesing that fucking fight already

>>2185285

Speaking of stupid luck, that's a Natural 100.

Now, you can bank that 100, regain your spent FP, and tie that 97 the vamp got.

OR you can leave that Natural 100 and end the fight with vamp here and now.

> Bank the crit, continue the fight
> Take the crit, take the vamp out of the fight

>>2185310
> Bank the crit, continue the fight

>>2185310
>> Take the crit, take the vamp out of the fight

>>2185310

> Take the crit, take the vamp out of the fight

>>2185366
>>2185384

Crit taken.

Sorry lady, but this is over.

Writin'

>>2185074

In the background, you see Dutch adjust his aim to something directly below him before firing rapidly.

But you push that out of your head, letting the effects of your bare-bones magic heighten your focus to a razor's edge.

As one, the two of you rush forwards, swords clashing against each other once again and again and again. After the fourth impact, you manage to force her sword to interlock with your own. This time, you can see the sweat coming down her face as you apply more and more pressure.

She manages to bulk you, but you were waiting for that, not even bothering to make any more attempt than necessary to dodge her retaliation strike as it sails over your head.

Her sword clatters to the dirt behind you as you bring your counter around, spend up exponentially from your magic and the fact that you brought the blade into position during her attack, and cut right through the gap in her armor. A painful, inhumane scream exits her as your silvered edge takes her entire arm off from the shoulder down, the effect of the silvered edge taking hold immediately as the flesh begins to curl and burn.

The woman, all calm hatred suddenly gone and replaced with a bright, burning fury in her eyes lunges at you again in one last, desperate effort to strike against you.

But that's entirely wasted as you side-step her attack, looping your arm under her remaining one and using her own momentum to slam her against a nearby wall. She freezes for a moment from the impact, before opening her eyes to glare at you again. That's replaced with shock as you bring your blade around once again and impale her to the wall to the point that the hilt is holding her in place.

Backing up, you're just in time to see Dutch casually execute the last two standing Thralls, allowing them to join their brutalized others in the dirt.

"Soo..." Your friend pops open the chamber of one revolver to throw a fresh set of ammunition into it, "That was fun. What next?"

You glance behind you, where the female vampire is trying, unsuccessfully, to pull the sword out of her with her remaining arm, the occasion gasp and muffled curse telling you just how much pain she was in.

Now what?
> Finish off the vampire
> See if she'll talk to you
> Leave her to rot
> Other

>>2185441
>> See if she'll talk to you

>>2185441
>> See if she'll talk to you
But have our silver dagger ready.

>>2185503
>>2185446

Let's have a chat, shall we?

Writin'

>>2185441

"Well..." You know for a fact that your little fight here had to have attracted some attention, what with the fact that Dutch shot the ever living shit out of those thralls. Though, he didn't use the rifle, so you might have more time that you think, "Perhaps it's time I had a chat with a certain someone. Might if I borrow that knife?"

Your friend wordlessly hands over the silvered knife, moving over to double-check that everything was well and truly dead as you approach your sort-of captive.

Getting closer, you have to resist the urge to wince as you see what the prolonged effect of silver has; the wound in her chest is slowly... dissolving? Rotting? Withering? You don't have a word that really describes the effect of her flesh slowly turning gray and flaking.

Either way, you clear your throat to catch her attention before casually looking her down, "Yo".

"Hoelscher, you... disgusting man," She spits out your fake name with such venom that it almost makes you smile, "You... d-did this to me..."

"You've tried to kill me multiple times," You motion towards her with the dagger, "The fuck were you expecting?"

The vampire doesn't respond, just sticking her head towards you as she tries to bite you despite the fact that you're out of her reach, "Thirs...ty... So thirsty... Need..."

"Blood, right?" You finish her sentence, not really patient enough to listen to her entire spiel.

"Bl...ood...." Her eyes dilate entirely, to the point where you can barely make out the red in them, and her body visible relaxes as she focuses on the word, "Need more... Yes yes yes more more more always more".

Her head rolls unnaturally, twisting until her eyes lock with yours once again, "You... you... disgusting man... but... de...lic...ious... b̻͚̝̦l͎̫̹̬o̟̳̫̯̗̩̗o̴̘̬̙̹̮̘̙o͟o̳̻̤o̦͓̣̮̻̬ͅoò̭̜̹͎̭̰o̱͈̻̝͇̳o̫͈͈̦ͅo̵̬̹̘̝̝o͞o̺̮̼̦̣o͈̯d̻̟̱͢d͕d̛̻̺͚̻̗̟d̨̫̰d͉d̻̟̞d̞d̙͍͓̱̼͕̕d̼̳̝͔d̛̯͖̟̫".

You take a step back as she strains against the sword holding her back once more, teeth snapping together as she fails to go anywhere. You're no real expert, but it doesn't take one to realize that she's rapidly degrading here. This probably won't kill her permanently, you're not stupid enough to believe that, but perhaps you might be able to get one good answer out of her before she's too far gone.

Your question?
> "What are you all planning?"
> "Who is your leader?"
> "What's your next target?"
> Write in

>>2185565
>> "What's your next target?"

>>2185565
>> "What's your next target?"

>>2185581
>>2185579

What's next on the murder list?

Writin'

>>2185565

"What's your next target?" Hopefully, this'll give you some chance of figure out their next move. Maybe you'll actually be able to be a bit more proactive if you know what might happen.

What you're really not expecting is to hear laughter bubbling out of her, wild eyes glaring at you, "You really don't know, huh? Hahahhaha..."

With a trembling hand, the vampire grabs the hilt of the sword and pushes her body down it. The effect is immediate, with the decay rapidly spreading throughout the rest of her body.

There's a smile and a single word on her lips as she goes, "...perfect".

That's all she gets out as she practically dissolves in front of you, even her armor rots away and blows away with an errant gust of wind that sends shivers up your spine.

"Well," Dutch walks up, idly kicking where the vampire was moments ago, "That just happened".

You don't respond immediately, just staring at the broadsword impaled into a wall. Eventually, you snap out of it and go to retrieve the weapon while giving your friend a glance from the corner of your eyes, "Yeah, it did".

[ARTIFICER QUEST PART 15 END]

> Sorry about leaving things here, but I have to run for the night. I'll be around at some point tomorrow afternoon (EST) to continue things, so stay tuned for that. It'll still be in this thread, since I think I still have some time left with it. Anyways, see you all tomorrow.

>>2185651
Thanks for running StoryT

Gather what remains we can and secure them. We need evidence to show the guards what happened.

>>2185651
Methinks we should keep Sierra at literally arms reach now. Of us or her bro. And advice Sun and Jun to take exceptional care as well.

>>2185651
Do the vamps think we are actually important? I mean we have connections and friends pretty high up but we are just a shop keep. I bet her boss is going to be upset that she went and got poofed again.

>>2186358
Shes a big girl, also she can throw fire out of her hands. I don't think we need to be too worried when it comes to her.

>>2186548
We got out of this unscathed thanks to emotional decision on part of the vampire and being prepared for the fight with Dutch as support.

I'm glad we gave Sierra that outfit, but she'd have to be several grades higher in terms of power and versatility for us to not have to worry about her when our nemesis pops up with expendable thralls to overwhelm her.

>>2186548
I think it's less that we're important per se. more that we've proven ourselves a capable nuisance.

Finally got to a point where I could use my laptop after trying and failing to get 4chan to work on my phone. Anyways, I hope you all have a good new year.

I'm actually a bit surprised that this thread is still so far from falling off the board, so I guess I'll throw up the next part here until it does.

>>2185651

[ARTIFICER QUEST PART 16 START]

Despite the fact that the patrol was successful, despite the fact that neither you nor Dutch took anything above cosmetic damage, and despite the fact that you turned that vampire who wants your head on a platter into literal dust, the night's events leave you on edge.

You can tell your friend wants to try to cheer you up, but you give him a reassuring smile when he says he needs to head back. After removing the taped-on bayonet and double checking the massive gun to make sure nothing happened to it during the fight, you send Dutch on his way with a warning to watch his back.

From there, you locked down the shop, made sure all the weapons you've made for Sun are where they should be, and then headed for bed.

Or rather, you tried to. For whatever reason, you toss and turn fitfully; only slipping unconscious for a scant few hours before you wake back up feeling even worse than you did before. It takes you seconds to determine why: it's subtle and distant, but you can definitely feel that old, familiar feeling of your wound burning.

Blearily pushing yourself up, you tiredly glare out the window as a light spattering of rain is coming down. Despite your own protests, you slide out of bed and go clean up; you're tired, but given the situation you'll only be risking another nightmare if you try to rest.

After cleaning up and making yourself a tiny breakfast that you only barely managed to get down, you head down to the workshop. Considering your previous actions, you grab a rag and wipe down the broadsword to make absolutely sure it's clean.

In checking that the blade is clean, you get a nice look at yourself; you've been worse in your previous travels, but this is definitely the worst you've been since coming to Shirahoro.

Sighing, you replace the silvered sword back into the box of other weapons and check the time. Its... 4 am. Great.

Jun's not going to arrive until around 7 or 8 am, so you've got some time to work with until then.

Now what?
> Work in the workshop/forge
> Go somewhere (where?)
> Find someone (who?)
> Other

>>2190606
> Work in the workshop/forge
Defaulting to this unless someone comes up with a reason to choose the others.

>>2190606
Work in the forge

We should build a set of masterwork powered light armor for Sun

>>2190695
>>2190808

Work in the forge it is.

What project do you wish to work on?
> Work on your grenade launcher design
> Work on your armor
> Work on fortifying the shop
> Work on the store front
> Work on another project

>>2190606
>> Work in the workshop/forge
Maybe make a better hammer?

>>2190941
> Work on fortifying the shop

>>2190941
> Work on fortifying the shop
> Work on the store front

>>2190941
> Work on the store front
Income is important

>>2190941
store front

>>2191092
>>2191166
>>2191239

Work on the store front it is.

> Roll me three 1d100+20's please

Rolled 59 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>2191332

Rolled 64 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>2191332

Rolled 77 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>2191332

>>2191362

97, Success.

Writin'

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>>2190606

Well, you've got the time and it's not like you can just run off. Might as well get to work on making the storefront actually look like a store rather than an open room.

Firing up the forge, you pull out a fair amount of iron and get to work.

> You have lost: 10 Units of Iron!

There's not too much you can do with what you have, but making several racks to display weapons and the like are well within your means.

After a few hours, you wipe down the last rack to make sure there's no grime on it and take a step back to admire your work. You've got plenty of room to store and display weapons, shields, and armors that doesn't involve a crate in your back room. You will have to work on building up an inventory so you can actually utilize the racks, but that'll have to wait for later as you're interrupted from your musings by someone knocking on the door.

Turning around, you spot Jun casually waving at you from the door. Walking over and opening the door, you let the young man in.

"Good morning, John," He pulls off a cloak, causing you to raise an eyebrow as you note he's wearing rough street clothes.

"'Morning Jun," You have to resist the urge to wince at how rough your voice sounds so you cough in hopes of fixing it.

He walks up to the counter as you head behind it, glancing you over as he does, "Something wrong John? You don't sound too hot?"

Your response?
> "Didn't get much sleep, that's all"
> "Had a bit of a rough night"
> "Just not feeling too well"
> Other

>>2191400
"Had a bit of a tough night, and I met a rather infatuated stalker....saw her off well and proper"

I like to think if we make a joke of everything, then nobody can ever claim "Why didn't you tell me about X"

>>2191400
>"Had a bit of a rough night"

>>2191400
Rough night mate

>>2191422
>>2191424
>>2191428

It's been rough.

Writin'

>>2191400

You're about to dismiss him, but you catch yourself before you do; Jun's just being polite and you're mature enough that you can restrain yourself even when you back is acting up.

So, you give him a thin grin, "Just had a rough night is all. Ran into a lady who was a bit too happy to see me; took a bit of effort to get her to leave".

Jun just blinks at you, as if he's not really believing what you're saying, "John... don't you have a girlfriend?"

"I do, that's why I sent her off high and dry".

He doesn't say anything at first, just blankly staring at your half-grin. Eventually, Jun lets out a despondent sigh, "I forget, sometimes, that you're not some kind of noble... Anyways, I assume you have the weapons for the contract? John?"

"What? Right, right, they're in the back so give me a minute," Stepping out of the storefront, you grab the crate of assorted weapons and head back to the counter.

Placing it down, the two of you pull out the weapons and set them down for inspection.

Terms of the Contract:
> The Damiyo are willing to pay for silvered-weapons forged on a per-blade basis.
> Weapons shall be either swords or spears.
> Weapons of Simple or lower Quality will not be accepted.
> Weapons of Good Quality will be bought for 1 Silver each.
> Weapons of Great Quality will be bought for 5 Silver each.
> Weapons of Excellent Quality will be bought for 20 Silver each.

Weapons created:
> 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)

Total Payout: 1 gold, 62 silver

Is this acceptable?
> Take the payout
> Keep something (what?)

>>2191496
"Pays up mate, and send your dad my reguards"

>>2191496
Pleasure doing business with you. Got anything else?

Also, about that party...

Also, do be careful in the streets. The bad guys seem to have bodies to spare.

>>2191508
>>2191498

We'll take it all.

Writin'

>>2191496

> You have gained: 1 Gold, 62 Silver!

"Always a pleasure doing business with you and your father, Jun," Shaking his hand, you're more than happy to accept to small pile of coins being pushed across the counter.

Meanwhile, Jun repacks the crate and hefts it with a kind of ease you expect after seeing him break that thrall's neck, "It's good to see you too, John. I'll let my father know you've completed the contract".

He's about to turn to leave when you grab him by the shoulder and turn him back towards you, "You be careful out there alright? I know things aren't too bad on the surface, but they're definitely up to something. I don't know what it is, and I've been looking into it on my own, but I do know something is coming up".

"Father mentioned something similar, so don't worry I'll be careful," Jun gives you a reassuring grin, "He also mentioned some kind of meeting tonight with you, good luck with that".

"You're not coming?" You let go of his shoulder at this point.

"Yeah, I'll be busy".

"Busy? With Yeon-Ha I presume?" You can't help but let a grin cross your face as the young man looks visibly taken off-guard at your comment.

"Ye- I mean," Jun sputters at his own slip, "Look, John, good day to you!"

"Have a good day, Jun," Giving him one last smirk, you wave goodbye as he leaves the shop.

With a quick sigh, you push yourself up and take a quick stock of what you have currently.

SHOP CONDITION:
Infrastructure: Functioning
Power: 10/96 Units
Water: Hot and Cold
Heat: Online
Fuel: 25 Units
Iron Ingots: 171 Units
Silver Ingots: 0 Units
Active Contracts: 0
Inventory: empty
Coins on hand: 2 Gold, 17 Silver, 85 Copper
Coins in bank: 3 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: 2 Gold, 67 Silver, 15 Copper
Cost of Income tax for the Month: 26 Silver, 72 Copper

Doing a quick time check, it's now mid morning. You've got a fair amount of time until the meeting takes place in the evening.

Now what?
> Work in the workshop/forge
> Go somewhere (where?)
> Find someone (who?)
> Other

>>2191596
>Make golem frame

I'm thinking it will look like fall out 4 power armour without power, stood there.....watching you

>>2191601
This

>>2191601
>>2191616

Workshop and golem it is.

Writin'

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>>2191596

Heading to the workbench, you sit down and take a moment to rub your brow. Your back is still cheerily burning away and it's not helping your current, on-edge mood.

Brooding on it, you consider that perhaps you've been looking at the solution to this issue with the vampires the wrong way. After all, these things are far and away better fighters than you are; honestly, only a combination of your bullshit magic and luck has been keeping you ahead.

But you're just a single human, one who needs to eat and sleep to function properly. You can't fight every battle or work around the clock; at some point you're going to need to stop because, after all, you're not a mach-...

Inspiration hits you like a brick, so much so that you stand up so quickly you trip over the stool and fall to the ground. Jumping to your feet and scrambling to grab a piece of paper and a quill, you don't even both to correct the stool as you begin printing the machinations of your mind onto paper.

> Roll me three 1d100+15's please

Rolled 49 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>2191655

Rolled 21 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>2191655
we went full mad scientist

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Rolled 99 (1d100)

>>2191655
I want our golem to look like this

Rolled 48 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>2191655

>>2191664

Considering the amount of SAN damage John's taken he's basically a high-functioning mad scientist.

>>2191673

I have something planned for the golem sub-arc, so perhaps it might

That's a 114, Great Success.

Writin'

>>2191655

You know of golems.

Kind of.

You know of the massive, Magitech-powered Titans that stand their endless guard at several Haven Cities back out West. You know of magical constructs forged from mud and clay.

You also know that you can't do anything similar to the stories that you've heard of previously. No, you don't have the technological armories of those monoliths or the mana capacity of some long gone mage.

No, you only have yourself and your shop.

But maybe... maybe that's enough. Briefly, you think back to the golem you fought back in that strange Ruin.

Working from the chest outwards, you scribble and design an endoskeleton to make it all move. One by one, another paper filled with designs and notes join their fellows on your table before you grab another.

Eventually, you put your quill down and review what you've made.

> You have created: Advanced Humanoid Golem Endoskeleton Blueprint!

There's a slight ache in your bones as you stretch from standing hunched-over, but you ignore that.

Grabbing your tools, you begin working on making this design a reality.

> Roll me three 1d100+32's please

Rolled 56 + 32 (1d100 + 32)

>>2191750
HE'S
THE IRON
MAN

Rolled 14 + 32 (1d100 + 32)

>>2191750