>>2270619
>I need to ask Beatrice for one last favor before we head out.

>>2270623
>I need to ask Beatrice for one last favor before we head out.
Writing...

>>2270662
>I need to ask Beatrice for one last favor before we head out.

"Make it fast," Walt says, but Principal Brown shakes his head.
"Time stops inside there relative to us, I think, so don't rush too much."

---

Beatrice is here in the red-colored room, sitting with a calm demeanor. Normally, she would probably be jumping all over you, but it seems even she knows this isn't the time for it. "I assume you're here on business, so I won't take any more of your time than I have to," she says. "What did you want to accomplish?"

>Current Condition:
>>Faust/Dante (Jester)
>>>Devour/Scribe. Faust consumes a Myth, Monster, or Curse to gain a part of its power. Dante instead sketches it and gains a lesser insight, but adds it to the list of known Myths.
>>Blackbeard (Ruler) +2/+0/-1/+3
>>>Master of Fear. Negates Frightened when active Myth, can cause Frightened (Succeed on Courage roll, more difficult for all targets).
>>The General (Hero) +3/-1/+0/+3
>>>No Man of Woman Born. If active Myth, survives a deathblow once and returns to full health.
>>Demon in The Bottle +1/+0/+3/-1 (Jester)
>>>Drinking Problem. while held may choose to add (-2/-2/+1/+3) modifier to self (lasts until end of expedition, cannot be removed while Bottle is held).
>>Red Riding Hood: -1/-1/+3/+2
>>>Innocent Maiden. Automatically succeed on one Negotiation per expedition with a Hero-race Myth.
>>Nutcracker Prince (Hero) +2/+0/+3/+1
>>>Sweet Heart. If active Myth when confronting solo non-Monster Curse, can immediately Negotiate.
>>Davy Crockett (Explorer) (+3/+0/+1/+3)
>>>Remember the Alamo. +2 Courage if at least one ally including self is in Bad condition.

>>Legal Advice
>I want to purchase some Myths.
>I want to try fusing two or more Myths together.
>Got any combat advice? Anything helps.
>I just wanted to say hi. And maybe goodbye, if it comes to that.
>I have a different kind of request.
><Write-In>

>>2270686
>Got any combat advice? Anything helps.

>>2270694
>Got any combat advice? Anything helps.
Writing...

>>2270726
"Well, since you tracked him down all this way, he's not going to run- or let you do so, either." She considers the situation. "Also, instant-death attacks will almost certainly fail. From what little I can gleam, I sense high physical power and multiple elements he can attack with."

After a few seconds, Beatrice mentions, "He used an attack that removed one of your Myths before, correct? He may be able to use it on your allies. If he does... I don't know what the long term effects might be. It's possible that you could get them back, but they could be gone forever- and of he targets your friends, their memories of the Witching Hour with them."

The girl in red looks concerned, rolling the pen she's carrying between her fingers. "I don't want you to fight him alone, but I'm prevented from aiding you after trying to help you against Hercules, and your allies could be in grave danger."

All of your friends have decided to risk it all to fight Kronos, but Beatrice might be right- the only other people who can shift into multiple Myths are Principal Brown and Ruth.

>>Myth Eater
>We'll have to make sure he never uses it, then.
>I can fight this alone.
>Your father and Ruth will have to be sufficient.
>Kronos is breaking all the rules as it is. I need you to fight besides us.
>I'll be back, all right?
><Write-In>

>>2270770
>We'll have to make sure he never uses it, then.
>Once this is over we’ll go to the arcade all of us. I won’t let it end before I fufill that promise.

>>2270776
>We'll have to make sure he never uses it, then.
>Once this is over we’ll go to the arcade all of us. I won’t let it end before I fulfill that promise.
Writing response to classic shonen pep talk...

>>2270815
Beatrice looks at you with a semi-vacant expression, as she processes the information. After thirty seconds, she looks down, a smile slipping onto her face. "As your legal advisor, I suggest you keep your promises."

She hugs you and holds the hug for a few seconds, the tension in the air seeming to resolve itself all at once. After she pulls away from you, you can see a single tiny tear pooling in her right eye, but it clears without falling after a blink.

"Go forth and conquer, Solomon Read! If you do not return from your quest, I shall kill whatever remains of you myself!" For someone who was afraid you were going to die a second ago, she seems awfully serious. Oh well?

---

Once that's completed, you make your return to the group as a whole.

"I stand corrected," Walt says, a bit impressed. "It's as if he entered and left at the same time."

"No time for that!" David says eagerly. "Boss, it's up to you!"

>>Last Battle?
>I'm ready. Let's stop Kronos in Treachery.
>We need to get to Typhon ASAP to see what's going on.
>Wait, I need to switch out the party from (Sofia, Kenneth, Donna) to <Write-In>
><Write-In>

>>2270880
>I'm ready. Let's stop Kronos in Treachery.
>We need to get to Typhon ASAP to see what's going on.
>Swap Kenneth with Ruth

>>2270884
>I'm ready. Let's stop Kronos in Treachery.
You head to the elevator and down a floor to the one right above Typhon.
>We need to get to Typhon ASAP to see what's going on.
>Swap Kenneth with Ruth
(Party is set for battle with Solomon, Sofia, Ruth, Donna)

Writing...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlIz0QseHrA

>>2270945
"So you made it this far." Richard Clover sneers at you. He seems uncharacteristically aggressive. Every other time you've seen him, he's seemed calmer and more secure, even reasonable. But right now, there seems to be nothing but madness in his eyes. "Gotta admit, I'm impressed."

"Why?" Donna asks. "I just gotta know what you came all this way for. Harpe and Durandal, tricking everyone else, putting all of your company at risk."

"I don't need to explain anything to you..." he growls. "You won't remember a thing."

"Why do you keep saying that?" Sofia questions. "I mean, what are you going to do, wipe everyone's memories? What for?"

"Don't you imbeciles understand? I mean, my myth is Kronos! What else could I be talking about but TIME?"

"Wait, you're going to reset the timeline?" Ruth is shocked. "You can't! There's no telling what could happen!"

Walt feels it neccesary to comment: "Actually, 'C-H' Chronos is the god of time, Kronos is the youngest Titan."

"SHUT THE HELL UP!" Richard yells. "I'm going to fix everything!"

Stony, statuesque Kronos fills in the elderly man's place and battle is engaged!

(Enemy: Kronos (Richard Clover))
(Party: You(Great)/Sofia(Good)/Ruth(Good)/Donna(Good))
>>Command? (Roll 2d10 and add modifier, * options do not take up a turn)
>Proficiency/Knowledge/Charm/Courage: (+3/+3/+3/+3) + Faust/Dante(+1/+2/+1/+1) = (+4/+5/+4/+4)
>Feel out his defenses. (Proficiency +4)
>Set everyone up to deal damage. (Knowledge +5)
>Try to sap away some of his tremendous power. (Charm +4)
>Charge him while the others bolster you. (Courage +4)
>*Change Myth <Write-In>
>*Order (Tell another person to do something specific (+1 condition bonus): Current party- Sofia, Ruth, Donna)
>Flee (Sealed)
><Write-In>

OOC: Apparently formatting decided to stop working.

Rolled 10, 2 + 5 = 17 (2d10 + 5)

>>2271060
>Set everyone up to deal damage. (Knowledge +5)

>>2272493
>Set everyone up to deal damage. (Knowledge +5)
Strange...

>>2272512
>Set everyone up to deal damage. (Knowledge +5)
>(10, 2) + 5 = 17 (Success)

You bolster all of your allies' attack power. Sofia chooses to concentrate her magic, so that she can take full advantage of the boost.
Ruth shifts and sings a haunting melody to try and lower Kronos's resolve, but he doesn't seem to be having it.

"You don't know anything..." he mutters. "Just a little more time..."

"I can't read him," Walt says. "Something is definitely wrong, though. Call it a hunch, but he doesn't 'feel' like he did the last time you all fought him."

"Doesn't matter, we'll take him down anyways," Donna smiles, shifting into her new form and snapping her fingers. Concentric rings of darkness surround Kronos, but they don't strike him down. She shrugs. "Worth a shot."

Kronos simply strengthens his own defenses and waits patiently.
(Enemy: Kronos (Great)) (Party: You(Great)/Sofia(Good)/Ruth(Good)/Donna(Good))
>>Command? (Roll 2d10 and add modifier, * options do not take up a turn)
>Proficiency/Knowledge/Charm/Courage: (+3/+3/+3/+3) + Faust/Dante(+1/+2/+1/+1) = (+4/+5/+4/+4)
>Guard yourself. Something big is going to happen. (Proficiency +4)
>Keep strengthening your allies. The faster you defeat him, the less chance you'll deal with his attack. (Knowledge +5)
>Try to talk him down. Maybe he can be convinced to stop, even now. (Charm +4)
>Hit him with everything you've got, before whatever he's waiting on shows up. (Courage +4)
>*Change Myth
>*Order (Tell another person to do something specific (+1 condition bonus): Current party- Sofia, Ruth, Donna)
>Flee (Sealed)

OOC: Okay, this is ridiculous. I don't know what it is, but it's refusing to let me format using Notepad++ or something.

Rolled 7, 10 + 4 = 21 (2d10 + 4)

>>2272606
>Hit him with everything you've got, before whatever he's waiting on shows up. (Courage +4)

>>2272615
Writing...
OOC: Apparently I needed to reset some stupid settings. Everything should (HA) work now.

>>2272634
>(7, 10) + 4 = 21 (Success)

When you lunge for your enemy with Faust's claws, he seems to be surprised and, after you hit him in the chest, you hear a hiss of static and your ears buzz with an annoying sound that seems to be everywhere at once. After it clears, you see someone else- someone taller- standing in Richard Clover's place. Quickly, the alarmed woman shifts back into her Myth, a beautiful sorceress with water motifs. Within half a second, the illusion of Kronos is restored. What you did see, however, is enough to make her identity clear.

"Miss Crew?" Ruth asks with a bit of alarm. "But that would mean..."

"...FffffuuuuuuuUUUUUUUUUCK!" Donna speaks for everyone at extreme volume. "We've been punked!"

"She... She's in league with Kronos?" Sofia says, before closing her eyes. Her whole face turns red, and she summons Pythia for a singular concentrated burst of ruby flame. "Why? Why can't things just be as they seem?"

The flames scatter her illusion again, and Madeline looks back at you all with only a hint of shame. "Don't you dare judge me... All I want is a chance to relive my life... Don't all of us?" She heals herself from some of the damage she's taken, retaking the form of Kronos.

"So you were the one that pretended to be Walt's fiancee and tricked David into releasing Hercules!" Price deduces.

The school secretary just looks at the ground as the stony figure, the image of which flickers.

>>Madeline Crew?
>We don't have time for this. Let's go.
>So this is about bringing Daniel back?
>Where's the real Richard?
>I'm so disappointed in you.
><Write-In>

>>2272687
>We don't have time for this. Let's go.
>The real Richard must be with Typhon

>>2272723
>We don't have time for this. Let's go.
>The real Richard must be with Typhon

Writing...

>>2272727
Deciding there's no time to lose, you move towards the elevator as quickly as you cna sprint. The three girls fighting besides you simply follow, seeing that you're unwilling to waste any more time continuing the fight.

Ms. Crew simply stops and shifts back into her normal form. "It's too late at this point anyways. I'll see you on the other side."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owB3u1At5hw

"Goddamn it, I knew something was up," Walt chides himself as you all travel down. He crosses his arms in fury. "God DAMMIT."

"It's not something you could have helped," says Ruth. "She's responsible for her own decisions."

"Enough," Sofia demands. "I'm sick and tired of being jerked around by your grandpa and his flunkies. We're ending this NOW."

---

As soon as the elevator opens up, you step out. A hundred feet away is Richard Clover- again. He hovers in the air slightly, with glowing tattoos covering his face similar to if his blood were glowing. A heavy, dark mist surrounds him, concealing his facial expressions.

"He's gathering power. I don't know how, but Typhon is covering his presence." Walt tries to think, but Donna shakes her head, stepping up to confront Clover.

"So is this another illusion, or have you finally decided to face us like the freakshow you are?" she asks, angered.

"This is no illusion. It is already too late, as the Lady of the Lake has told you." His eyes open, shimmering with power. "Richard Clover has served me well."

"Oh, come the fuck on. Am I supposed to believe there's someone else in charge?" Ruth says, uncharacteristically swearing.

"Indeed. I am Saturn, Ruler of the Golden Age. Rightful owner of this world. I rule over regret- nostalgia- the better world of the past. Every human desires to correct their mistakes, prevent their failures. To recapture what could have been. To walk every path, without fear of reprisal."

He turns to Sofia first. "Your mother returned to you." She looks shocked.

David is the next on his list. "A life as a human."

One by one, he considers the others. "A family that was there for you. Living as yourself. Not having to hide your loneliness." His final statement falls on Ruth.

"You tricked me!" she says. "You betrayed my trust!"

"No. Kronos was born from Richard Clover's regrets... I from all's. I promised him what he could only dream of... if he succeeded, cost would be no object. He accepted of his own will. You did as well."

He turns to you specifically. "You have gained... A similar power to my own. This was unexpected. But this is the end. If you will not accept that I complete my task, you must perish."

>>Saturn's Offer
>Fat chance.
>So you're planning on resetting the world to fulfill a few fantasies?
>We'll let you reverse time- on a few conditions.
>Hey, Walt, want to go 2/2 on grandpas?
><Write-In>

>>2272795
>We'll let you reverse time- on a few conditions.
>Over our dead bodies

>>2274318
>We'll let you reverse time- on a few conditions.
>Over our dead bodies
Writing...

>>2274369

>We'll let you reverse time- on a few conditions.
"State your request, human," Saturn asks impassively.

"WHAT?" Sofia turns to you in a fury. "ALL THIS WAY AND THIS IS WHERE YOU DECIDE TO CRAP OUT!?" She looks about ready to attack you. "YOU FUCKING-"
>...Over our dead bodies.
Carrollo freezes mid-rant. Her face makes it clear she's at the end of her rope, but Walt chuckles with a bit of schadenfreude. "Ever the smartass, aren't you?"

"AS YOU WISH." The black mist swarms Clover and then coalesces into a shimmering, colorful sphere not unlike the planet.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6cSbof7Pik

"I'm giving this everything I've got!" Walt focuses and Merlin sends waves upon waves of power through your party. "Just ask if you need anyone else switched out!"
(+3 for three turns!)

"DO NOT FEAR DEATH. I SHALL CORRECT YOUR MISTAKES. SUCH AS ATTEMPTING TO COMBAT ME."
Saturn seems to be allowing you to strike first... Best not waste the opportunity.

(Enemy: Saturn of Regret (???))
(Party: You(Great)/Sofia(Good)/Ruth(Good)/Donna(Good))
>>Command? (Roll 2d10 and add modifier, * options do not take up a turn)
>Proficiency/Knowledge/Charm/Courage: (+3/+3/+3/+3) + Faust/Dante(+1/+2/+1/+1) = (+4/+5/+4/+4) +3
>Prepare for his attacks. (Proficiency +7)
>This is gonna be a long haul. Prepare your defenses. (Knowledge +8)
>Lower Saturn's defenses. (Charm +7)
>Damage. Now. (Courage +7)
>*Change Myth <Write-In>
>*Order (Tell another person to do something specific (+1 condition bonus): Current party- Sofia, Ruth, Donna)
>Flee
><Write-In>

Rolled 4, 1 + 8 = 13 (2d10 + 8)

>>2274446
>This is gonna be a long haul. Prepare your defenses.

Rolled 4, 1 + 7 = 12 (2d10 + 7)

>>2274446
>Damage. Now.

Rolled 1, 6 + 8 = 15 (2d10 + 8)

>>2274446
>>This is gonna be a long haul. Prepare your defenses. (Knowledge +8)

File: 1502763247511.png (254 KB, 752x375)

254 KB PNG

>>2274452
>>2274469
>>2274470

>>2274452
>>2274469
>>2274470
Writing...

File: saturn.jpg (61 KB, 958x759)

61 KB JPG

>This is gonna be a long haul. Prepare your defenses. (Knowledge +8)
>(1, 6) + 8 = 15 (Failure)

You brace yourself, but you are completely unprepared for what happens next. Spinning in place, the sphere glows before blinding you with a surge of searing light.
(Cosmos Master)
(Saturn's action count maximized!)

"I RULE THIS WORLD, AND I WILL SOON RULE YOURS. YOUR POWER IS RIGHTFULLY MINE."
A powerful dragging force pulls at your group, shaking the ground and pulling you and the girls towards the Monster. You're barely able to keep your own footing, and you know any moment you might lose your grip on the ground...

(Titan's Hunger)
Saturn calls...

>>Pick 3
>Blackbeard (Ruler) +2/+0/-1/+3
>The General (Hero) +3/-1/+0/+3
>Demon in The Bottle +1/+0/+3/-1 (Jester)
>Red Riding Hood: -1/-1/+3/+2
>Nutcracker Prince (Hero) +2/+0/+3/+1
>Davy Crockett (Explorer) +3/+0/+1/+3
><Write-In>

>>2274533
>Demon in The Bottle +1/+0/+3/-1 (Jester)
>Red Riding Hood: -1/-1/+3/+2
>Nutcracker Prince (Hero) +2/+0/+3/+1

>>2274536
>Demon in The Bottle +1/+0/+3/-1 (Jester)
>Red Riding Hood: -1/-1/+3/+2
>Nutcracker Prince (Hero) +2/+0/+3/+1
Writing...

>>2274579
The demon is pulled in first, trying to drag its nails on the ground to gain traction but ultimately failing. Red Riding Hood gives off a shriek as she disappears. The Nutcrakcer Prince tries to put on a brave face as he is devoured by darkness.
You feel their connection to you sever one by one.
(Demon in The Bottle, Red Riding Hood, Nutcracker Prince consumed.)
"HAPPINESS LIES IN THE PAST. WHY CAN YOU NOT SEE THIS?" The pulling stops, and Saturn returns to its hovering planetary form.

"We still have a future to live for..." Florez stands up. "We won't let you take that away!"

"I CAN CREATE A BETTER FUTURE."

"Shut up already, you oversized meteor!" Donna yells. "Just die!"

"I MUST COMPLETE MY DESIGNS."

Your allies seem to be back on their feet, but you're not sure how much more of Saturn's onslaught you can take. That took away three of your Myths... If he does that again, you'll be down to Faust. If he does it a third time...

(Enemy: Saturn of Regret (???))
(Party: You(Great)/Sofia(Good)/Ruth(Good)/Donna(Good))
>>Command? (Roll 2d10 and add modifier, * options do not take up a turn)
>Proficiency/Knowledge/Charm/Courage: (+3/+3/+3/+3) + Faust/Dante(+1/+2/+1/+1) = (+4/+5/+4/+4) +3
>Disorient him with some dazzling psychic energy, taking up at least some of his concentration. (Proficiency +7)
>Help everyone else hold their ground. (Knowledge +8)
>Try to get one of your Myths back with Faust. (Charm +7)
>Force Saturn's attention on you. (Courage +7)
>*Change Myth <Write-In>
>*Order (Tell another person to do something specific (+1 condition bonus): Current party- Sofia, Ruth, Donna)
><Write-In>

Rolled 6, 10 + 7 = 23 (2d10 + 7)

>>2274632
>Disorient him with some dazzling psychic energy, taking up at least some of his concentration. (Proficiency +7)

Rolled 4, 5 + 7 = 16 (2d10 + 7)

>>2274632
>Disorient him with some dazzling psychic energy, taking up at least some of his concentration. (Proficiency +7)

>>2274637
>>2274642
>Disorient him with some dazzling psychic energy, taking up at least some of his concentration. (Proficiency +7)
Writing...

>Disorient him with some dazzling psychic energy, taking up at least some of his concentration. (Proficiency +7)
>(6, 10) + 7 =23 (Success)

Refusing to let the losses shake you, you immediately respond with dozens of flickering lights and confusing patterns. It doesn't have any eyes, as far as you can tell, but this seems to work well enough, especially when Ruth adds her power to yours.

"Morrigan!" Donna raises her hand and shifts, forming a crackling ball of pure energy that she hurls at Saturn. This seems to do some respectable damage... but not enough.
"YOU DARE?" Anger and heat radiate from the giant, and it sends out a burning wave that scalds your skin and forces you to close your eyes.
(Burning Wrath)

"DONNA!" screams Ruth. When your eyes open, Donna is collapsed, unconscious.

"THIS IS YOUR PUNISHMENT FOR DEFYING PURE POWER. YOUR IDEALS MEAN NOTHING IF YOU CANNOT ENFORCE THEM."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fF_i3IhJwqQ
When Sofia sees her fallen ally, she can only purse her lips in contemplation. Before you can wonder why she's unndereacting so, the flames that were sent after her spin into a circle around her, before creating a pillar of flame.
"You don't get to hurt anyone else," Carrollo whispers. "I won't let you." Pythia shatters and reforms into a gravely serious woman of pure white with a set of measuring scales in hand.
(Sofia's resolve has transformed Pythia into Thetis, Goddess of Justice!)
As her power surges, Sofia uses it to bring Price back to her feet. Then she returns to focusing on the fight as if nothing had happened.

"You..." Donna says, but the healer stops her.

"Focus on the fight!"

(Enemy: Saturn of Regret (Somewhat Hurt?))
(Party: You(Good)/Sofia(Great)/Ruth(Moderate)/Donna(Moderate))
>>Command? (Roll 2d10 and add modifier, * options do not take up a turn)
>Proficiency/Knowledge/Charm/Courage: (+3/+3/+3/+3) + Faust/Dante(+1/+2/+1/+1) = (+4/+5/+4/+4) +3
>Get ready for Saturn using his devouring attack again. (Proficiency +7)
>Try to determine what kind of attack he'll use next so you'll be ready for it. (Knowledge +8)
>Heal up one of your teammates. (Charm +7)
>Use the power boost while you have it. (Courage +7)
>*Change Myth <Write-In>
>*Order (Tell another person to do something specific (+1 condition bonus): Current party- Sofia, Ruth, Donna)
>Call for a switch-out <Write-In>
><Write-In>

Rolled 1, 7 + 7 = 15 (2d10 + 7)

>>2274708
>Use the power boost while you have it. (Courage +7)

Rolled 3, 4 + 7 = 14 (2d10 + 7)

>>2274708
>Use the power boost while you have it. (Courage +7)
I believe.

Rolled 5, 8 + 7 = 20 (2d10 + 7)

>>2274708
>>Use the power boost while you have it. (Courage +7)

>>2274712
>>2274720
>>2274725
>>Use the power boost while you have it. (Courage +7)

File: Spoiler Image (3 KB, 225x225)

3 KB PNG

>>2274735
>Use the power boost while you have it. (Courage +7)
>(5, 8) +7 = 20 (Success)

(Icy Despair)
You keep up the assault and hammer at Saturn with your psychic blasts. Technicolor spheres and spirals dance in the air as you dodge spires of ice bursting up from the floor. One of them clips Donna, but you manage to pull her out of the way before she can get knocked out again.

(Titan's Hunger)
Once again, Saturn tries to draw in your Myths, soaking up all the light in the room. Soon, it becomes pitch-black and the cold chills you to the bone. The wind cuts like a knife, and dust pulled off of the ground hits you with disproportionate force. However, you clear your mind and stand your ground.

When the cold clears, Saturn remains as he was before. "YOU CANNOT RESIST THIS FOREVER."

"Just long enough," Donna pants.

Seeing as you still have your remaining Myths despite the power that's been wielded against you, you can't help but smirk.

(Enemy: Saturn of Regret (Furious))
(Party: You(Moderate)/Sofia(Good)/Ruth(Bad)/Donna(Bad))
>>Command? (Roll 2d10 and add modifier, * options do not take up a turn)
>Proficiency/Knowledge/Charm/Courage: (+3/+3/+3/+3) + Faust/Dante(+1/+2/+1/+1) = (+4/+5/+4/+4)
>Ready a counterattack. (Proficiency +4)
>His guard is slowly lowering. Look for weak points. (Knowledge +5)
>Soak up some of the Monster's power. (Charm +4)
>You've got the upper hand! Keep pushing! (Courage +4)
>*Change Myth <Write-In>
>*Order (Tell another person to do something specific (+1 condition bonus): Current party- Sofia, Ruth, Donna)
>Call for a switch-out <Write-In>
><Write-In>

Rolled 3, 5 + 4 = 12 (2d10 + 4)

>>2274770
>You've got the upper hand! Keep pushing! (Courage +4)
>Ruth and Donna change with Keith and David

Rolled 3, 6 + 4 = 13 (2d10 + 4)

>>2274770
>You've got the upper hand! Keep pushing! (Courage +4)
>Ruth and Donna change with Keith and David

Rolled 2, 1 + 4 = 7 (2d10 + 4)

>>2274770
>>You've got the upper hand! Keep pushing! (Courage +4)
>>Ruth and Donna change with Keith and David

Rolled 6, 7 + 4 = 17 (2d10 + 4)

>>2274770
>You've got the upper hand! Keep pushing! (Courage +4)
>Ruth and Donna change with Keith and David

>>2274774
>>2274778
>>2274784
>>2274785
>You've got the upper hand! Keep pushing! (Courage +4)
>Ruth and Donna change with Keith and David
Writing...

>You've got the upper hand! Keep pushing! (Courage +4)
>Ruth and Donna change with Keith and David
"Tag out!" David requests of Ruth, and Keith moves in front of Donna to cover her exit as well.

"KNOW YOUR PLACE," demands the echoing voice of Saturn. For a second, its focus is centered on David. "YOU..."

"Me?" David asks, confused at his being addressed.

"YOU WERE NOT MEANT TO EXIST. YOUR PRESENCE WILL BE REMOVED IN THE NEW WORLD."

"Doesn't deserve to exist? What a crock of shit!" Keith says. "David!"

"Yeah?" Evelake responds.

"Remember that thing we were talking about? Now's a good as time as any! Gawain!"

"Oh, right!" David nods. "Galahad!"

(Fusion: Christmas Knights)
An onslaught of ice cold from Gawain is turned into a furious, icy storm by Galahad. The combined force whirls into Saturn and slowly begins shredding at the Monster's exterior.

At this point, the damage is severe. Severe enough that your enemy is planning to resort to his most desperate possible attack.
"ENOUGH. IF I CANNOT DEFEAT YOU WITH BRUTE FORCE, I SHALL SIMPLY UNDO THIS EVENT ENTIRELY. NO MATTER HOW LONG IT TAKES, OR HOW MANY ATTEMPTS, I. WILL. BE. VICTORIOUS."
Charging with power, Saturn's newly gathering electric storm begins to whine and spark with power.

"He's going for a brute force timeline reset!" Walt says. "You've got to finish him off, now!"

"Just like old times, right?" Keith snarks despite the situation, but Sofia glares at him. It is funny, though. Wasn't this your original four-person party? It doesn't matter now...
(You feel the bonds between you and your friends tightening, even now.)

(Enemy: Saturn of Regret)
(Party: You(Moderate)/Sofia(Good)/Keith(Good)/David(Good))
>>Command? (Roll 2d10 and add modifier, * options do not take up a turn)
>Proficiency/Knowledge/Charm/Courage: (+3/+3/+3/+3) + Faust/Dante(+1/+2/+1/+1) = (+4/+5/+4/+4)
>One strike, one kill. (Proficiency +4)
>No taking risks. A psychic blast to disrupt. (Knowledge +5)
>Soak up some of the Monster's power. (Charm +4)
>You've got the upper hand! Keep pushing! (Courage +4)
>All together! (Roll 4d10, take best 2)
>Devour
><Write-In>

Rolled 4, 7, 9, 5 = 25 (4d10)

>>2274861
>All together! (Roll 4d10, take best 2)

Rolled 4, 1, 10, 5 = 20 (4d10)

>>2274861
>All together! (Roll 4d10, take best 2)

Rolled 9, 3, 2, 5 = 19 (4d10)

>>2274861
>>All together! (Roll 4d10, take best 2)

>>2274868
>>2274876
>>2274881
>All together! (Roll 4d10, take best 2)
Writing...

File: Spoiler Image (427 KB, 583x971)

427 KB JPG

>All together! (Roll 4d10, take best 2)
You attack with all your might, your voice calling the others drowned out in the static and crackling. They don't have to hear you, though. They know.

Somehow, despite Faust being weak to electricity, you don't feel scared anymore as you charge in. You're pretty sure you've gotten electrical burns, but that's nothing you haven't dealt with before. Maybe you could attribute it to adrenaline, or plain stupidity, but you just charge in, raining blows as quickly as you can. You think you can feel Walt's mental contact breaking up as your vision becomes filled with light and then an explosion knocks you back.

Too tired to continue and your head buzzing, you almost immediately fall unconscious.

---
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EU5ierrGKww

You wake up with your head propped up, and your vision filled with blue. It's strange, because this room seems at once familiar and not.

A chill runs down your spine- You can't feel Faust.

However, when you focus your eyes, you look up to see Beatrice cradling your head in her lap and running her fingers through your hair. She's wearing blue as well, matching the strange room perfectly. "You certainly took your time waking up," she says with a smile. "How does it feel?"

>>How does it feel?
>How does what feel?
>I'm not dead, am I?
>Where are the others?
>Where are we?
>What day is today?
>(Remain silent.)
><Write-In>

>>2274903
>Where are the others?

>>2274903
>Where are the others?
>Where are we?
>I'm not dead, am I?

>>2274907
>>2274908
>>Where are the others?
Beatrice pouts and makes a fake sniffle. "Am I not good enough for you?" When you make it clear by your expression that you're not joking around, she relents. "They're in Avalon."
>>Where are we?
"Nowhere special," she says, obviously lying. "Just somewhere where we can be alone for a bit."
>>I'm not dead, am I?
"No, no." she laughs. "You won, of course, as I expected of you. I just decided to borrow you for a bit. I hope they don't mind."

Oh, no... Your friends must be worried sick. You leap up and look around for a door, but Beatrice grabs your arm. "Please, calm down." She sits you down and explains why she's stopped you. "I just wanted to check to see what happened to you. It seems you're not only in pristine condition, but better than ever. I know not how, but I do not sense any of the previous 'legal issues' you had before. You are free to go."

Memories of your friends rush through your mind, and your heart swells in your chest. Golden power washes over your Myth's body, dressing it in regal yet rugged battle armor and equipping him with a sword in one hand and an axe in the other.
(Your resolve has transformed Dante into Gilgamesh, the First Hero!)

"Appropriate, wouldn't you say?" the demihuman smiles, then runs her left index finger over your shoulder. "You did promise you would bring me to the arcade. I enjoyed our combat."


>>A door forms on one wall, giving you an exit from the room, beckoning you onwards...
>Thanks for everything.
>To the arcade, then.
>I had one last thing I wanted to ask you about...
>I'm blaming you if they get mad you made them think I'm dead.
><Write-In>

>>2274930
>Thanks for everything
>I'm blaming you if they get mad you made them think I'm dead.
>To the arcade, then.

>>2274930
>I'm blaming you if they get mad you made them think I'm dead.

>>2274937
>>Thanks for everything
"It's my job," Beatrice states bashfully.
>>I'm blaming you if they get mad you made them think I'm dead.
"It's my job," she repeats, this time more tongue-in-cheek.
>>To the arcade, then.
A wicked smile makes you almost regret making the promise in the first place.

---

"I mean, really?" Sofia is still angry about the matter even as you walk inside the arcade. "That wasn't funny at all. I thought you were really dead!"

"And she was blubbering like a baby too," Donna mentions, chuckling. "'Oh, if I had only told him earlier!' Bitch, please. Like he was really gonna bite the big one."

"I never said that!" Carrollo crosses her arms, but Keith backs up Donna's story.

"No shame in it, I thought he really bought the farm too." Allan slaps you on the shoulder. "Good to have you back among the living."

"Where's Walt?" Ruth asks, filing in behind David, who rushes off to one of the arcade cabinets to watch someone else play.

Martinez answers. "I think he said he was helping deal with Clover's death. Last I heard, the police thought he got hit by a car."

Beatrice is also here, finally in normal clothes for once. "How interesting..." she says, looking at one of the arcade cabinets. It's the one Walt always uses, and he seems to have replaced your score.

When he hears this, Evelake pulls something out of his pocket. "Oh, right, Walt said you should have these." It seems to be a box for glasses. He gives it to you.

>>Arcade
>(Open the box)
>I don't think his sunglasses are very useful in laser tag.
>First I need to top the leaderboard, David (Roll 2d10+3),
>Yeah, I'm sure you didn't miss me a bit, Sofia.
><Write-In>

>>2274943
Okay, I definitely didn't mean to miss your post.

>>2274968
>Yeah, I'm sure you didn't miss me a bit, Sofia.

>>2274969
It's fine, the bit I wanted was there anyway.

>>2274968
>I don't think his sunglasses are very useful in laser tag.
>(Open the box)
>Yeah, I'm sure you didn't miss me a bit, Sofia.

File: Sunglasses.jpg (7 KB, 350x350)

7 KB JPG

>>2274976
>Yeah, I'm sure you didn't miss me a bit, Sofia.
"Shut up," she groans in embarrassment, smoothing out her skirt. "Look, I've... Too many people have died or nearly died in all these events. It's enough to make a girl go mad."

"And definitely not because she's in wuv with you or anything." Kenneth says before being promptly slapped for the comment. "Ow!"

>I don't think his sunglasses are very useful in laser tag.
"Wait until you see," David says, beckoning you on.
>(Open the box)
Inside, Walt has indeed placed his (expensive, ancient) sunglasses, having cleaned them carefully. You can still see scuffs and scratches from wear, but there's practically no debris on them. Also attached is a note.
When I lived in Japan, I found my eyes would unsettle people, as they were intense and obviously Western. As I didn't want to bring attention to myself, I tried a couple of things and found people tolerated my appearance better when I wore sunglasses. Wearing them also made it easier to hide my emotions from other people.
I really want to express my gratitude for how much you all have helped me this semester. As much as I'd wish not to feel satisfaction at the death of a man, I don't have to worry about Richard attempting to hijack my life any more. Plus, since you all were planning to go to the arcade, I went ahead and paid for unlimited play for all of you. One day only, so don't waste it.
The sunglasses are yours, Solomon. You can keep them or even pawn them, I don't care.
-Walter Bennett
(You got Walt's Sunglasses!)

Taking them out of the container, you look through the lenses and consider how you got here in such a short time.

>>Sunglasses.
>Put on the sunglasses.
>Give them to David.
><Write-In>

(Last choice of the quest, I think. If you have any other questions I can dump some Where Are They Now info later.)

>>2274997
>Give them to David.

>>2274997
>Give them to David.

I don't really have any questions, but I'd love a where are they now.

>>2275003
>>2275005
>Give them to David.
"Huh?" he seems a bit surprised, but accepts them. They're a bit big for him, but fit well enough. "I don't know how he sees through these," Evelake admits, putting them away carefully before energetically asking you, "Let's head to the arena, then! There's no time to waste!"

Ruth begins to laugh at his enthusiasm. "If you insist. I always like playing on blue team myself."

"We should do boys versus girls!" Donna asks.

"No way! You're such a small target it's impossible to hit you," Allan says, putting his hand on Price's hear to compare their heights.

The small girl shakes him off and sticks out her tongue. "Sounds like loser excuses to me!"

"I'm fine playing red team," Martinez shrugs. "Let's go."

"Should I be red or blue?" Beatrice ponders. "I was wearing red before, but I recently became uniformed in blue."

"I'll just fill in for whoever's left," Sofia says, exasperated. For a second, she reaches out for your hand, but hesitates.

"Lead us ahead, Boss!" David requests, and you step towards the door to the arena. Some things never change.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3395PPzVW3Y

>>2275019
>For a second, she reaches out for your hand, but hesitates.

That physically hurt me.

>Where are they now?
>Solomon Read
Managed to survive until Christmas break. And then, after realizing that his ex-girlfriend found out about Sofia and Beatrice, barely survived Christmas break, welcoming the return to Olympia with open arms.
>Sofia Carrollo
Finally explained her affections for Read in time to force him to go to the Christmas dance with her, and met him again in New York. She was not happy to find out about Irene.
>David Evelake
Eventually became promoted to Corporal and got a physical upgrade to make himself look older. Having come to terms with his mechanical self, he continues to serve in the US military.
>Keith Allan
Continued to go steady with Donna for some time, won some prizes in boxing. Eventually got his English grade above a B.
>Ruth Florez
Putting aside her cards, Florez enjoyed life free of worries- at least until she was expected to pick a career. Luckily, her acting ability made this easier.
>Donna Price
Continued to go steady with Keith for some time. Kept bugging Solomon about the New York photos. Never satisfied with any of them, she eventually decided to take them herself.
>Kenneth Martinez
Improved both his academic and athletic ability, but despite this, never entered professional sports. Satisfied with the idea of college trophies, he continued to improve himself.
>Walter Bennett
Was married, of course, and spent a happy honeymoon on Christmas break. Eventually, his new wife managed to get him to moderate his alcohol consumption, adding years to his lifespan.
>Beatrice Brown
Always more than a handful, Beatrice continued to torment Solomon in a 'loving fashion'. However, when her brother vanished to find their mother, she wondered if she should follow. Ultimately, she decided to stay in Crescent City.
>Charles Clover
Returned to his wife and eventually forced Walter to finally get his doctorate. He technically inherited his father's company, but ended up passing it along to a distant cousin.
>Petrus Orosco
Continued fishing until he retired and opened his own seafood restaraunt, Neptune's Palette (sic), which remained just obscure enough to be a hidden treasure but passed through enough to be profitable.
>Principal Brown
Returned to a calm life of teaching and paperwork, as well as appeasing his always energetic and sometimes bratty long-lost children.
>Vergil Brown
Joined Olympia and was outstanding in all academic fields but art. He eventually went on a journey to re-find his mother.
>Christopher Hall
Successfully pursued a scholarship in political science and is slowly entering the political world. Managed to become less uptight.
>Leroy Brown
Left Crescent City for unstated reasons, never to return. His exit from history remains as much of a mystery as his life.
>Sarpino Carrollo
Continued to make good pizza, eventually entrusting his recipes to Sofia and a younger business partner.
>Miss Patricia
Eventually died peacefully in her sleep, leaving her extensive library to the public.

>Richard Clover
Is still dead. Probably. He was buried, anyways...The city of Crescent City is still full of mystery...

Thanks for playing!
-Judge
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUzlBP01Nzg

>>2275055
Thanks for running Judge. Best wishes for your future endeavors.