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<April 29th, Sunday 9:00 PM>

"So, you just press and hold it then?", Chris asked, looking over the hilt of the sword, "that sounds like the kind of cryptic shit that Gantz likes to do. How long does it get?"

After your little bout with Chris ended, he wasted no time in asking about the blade's additional function. A part of you wanted to outright deny him the information, as he was partially to blame for Erick's continued death. Yet, your pragmatism and sense of honestly won out in the end. In spite of how insane the kid was, he was effective in what he did.

"No clue", you reply, sheathing Erick's blade, "Saw it get as long as 10 feet back in the museum."

There is a ponderous pause from Chris, before his thumb held down the hilt's button. Chris almost lurched back as the blade extended from the hilt, past the barrels, and then the brick wall in the back of the compound. A resounding 'click' resonated in Chris's hilt, and he almost recoiled from the sudden motion. You hopped over some of the garbage and sat on the wall to see just to see the blade's stopping point.

The length of the blade was almost comical, as it stretched out partially over the lake's edge. From Chris's start, to its tip, you estimated this thing was probably about 20 feet in length. The blade's hilt, and wholly impossible method of sheathing the blade itself, was the work of a mad scientist in your eyes. Yet, the extension feature seemed the work of that scientist's child trying to make the blade cut more by making it longer.

"Holy shit!" , Chris exclaimed, a joyous expression on his face ," Why didn't Gantz gives these to us earlier?! This is way more baddass than those guns!"

You couldn't respond to his statement before the blade began to retract. It was a motion almost too fast for your eyes to see as the blade quickly made its way from outside, to the wall, the garbage, and back to Chris's hilt. The whole situation didn't seem real, yet perhaps it was your already jaded mind that prevented you from being as impressed as him. As Chris's blade finished retracting, a few footsteps approached the two of you.

You and Chris looked over the side of the warehouse you came from to see Yukino and Kurtis. Chris only briefly acknowledged their presence, returning his attention almost immediately back to the sword.

"You two ok here?", Kurtis started, giving you both a worried look, "we heard shouting and a loud explosion out here. We were getting a little worried that you didn't show up afterwards."

"What?", Chris responds, looking over to Kurtis with a smug expression, "Don't trust me, black beard? I told you already, I don't do shit behind the scenes. If I want to kill someone, it'll be very public."

Kurtis only narrows his eyes, but his glare only goes so far as Chris starts teetering that big gun in his arms. It's a very fine line between what's real and a joke with Chris.

'Damnit, at least let me explain before you start threatening each other.'

>Write In

>>2869615
I wanted to know more about the timer and had ro kick his ass to het the information, relax Kurtis

>>2869615
nice to see you back Bol

"I wanted to know more about the timer and in return, I showed him some functions the sword has that he didn't know. Let's get back to training."

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>>2869628
>>2869631

"Relax Kurtis", you state, trying to get between the two of them, "I wanted to know some more about Gantz and the timer. In return, I just showed him some of the functions on the sword he didn't know about."

"Yeah, exactly", Chris adds, motioning to you, "nothing's free of course so, she had to earn her keep. I let her win though, heheh."

"What was that big explosion then?" Yukino asks, looking at Chris, "I don't think swords do that sort of thing...unless that was the other function for the sword?"

"Heh, that would be kind of cool actually", Chris replies, and then showing off that big gun of his, "It was actually this thing. It crushes whatever its pointed at, had to try it out on some of this garbage. Haven't yet tried it on a living thing though..."

Kurtis and Yukino eye the gun warily as Chris puts it back to his side. There's a small urge in you to punch Chris for keeping these two on edge during your standoff. You settle to just talking him down however.

"Will you stop being an dumbass for one second?" you growl at him, and the look back at Kurtis, "Listen it's nothing to worry about, I had it handled either way. Just...get back inside and I'll join you back in a second, alright?"

Kurtis doesn't stop glaring at Chris for a second, even as he lets out a sigh of understanding.

"If you say so", Kurtis states, turning around back to the warehouse, "but I hear shouting again, I'm pulling you back and kicking his ass."

"I'd love to see you try", Chris adds, but Kurtis just keeps walking, "try and mess around with me and my sword? We'll see how that goes Kurtis!"

"Stop messing around", you scold, earning a raised eyebrow from Chris, "the others are on edge already, they don't need you antagonizing them. Now, unless you got another tidbit of information, I suggest we get back inside and return to training."

"As much as I like your offer", Chris states, looking at you and then to Yukino," I think I have a better one. Why don't you and Yukino train with me on those swords? She's got as well, doesn't she?"

"Yeah, I got one," Yukino replies, but furrows her brows at Chris, "but why are you so hung up on training out here. And, why would should-"

"Jesus christ," Chris interrupts, throwing his big gun to a trash pile, "you people are so damn annoying sometimes. Stop answering me with questions, and give me a straight answer if you want to train out here with me or not?!"

>Train with Chris, get better with the sword alongside Yukino
>Train back with the others, get better with guns
>Try to convince Chris back to the warehouse, may help with teamwork
>Write In

>>2869662
OOC: Forgot my trip again...

Also, I should check back on this thread a little more often.

>>2869662
>>Try to convince Chris back to the warehouse, may help with teamwork

that's the thing, we will train with swords, but together with the others while they cover with the guns

>>2869662
>Try to convince Chris back to the warehouse, may help with teamwork

We can train with swords later when the others leave, let's take the opportunity that everyone is hear to train as a unit, and then we train swords since we don't have nothing better to do than get gud.

If he is a little bitch and complain too much let's train swords with him, but inside so nobody can see us. But make sure to tell how much of an annoying child he is.

>>2869672
support

train with everyone and later train with him

if he doesn't accept at least train inside.

I would accept training with him just because I fear Yukino would train with him anyway since she wants to become stronger and I don't want him alone with her

>>2869678
>>2869667
>>2869672

Chris is eyeing you and Yukino with anticipation over an answer to his offer. If you leave him alone, and head back inside, you may leave it out to chance if he tries anything. If you train out here with him, you may lose your chance to train the group's cohesion.

'Damnit Chris', you chide, thinking on a way to convince him, 'why are you always so difficult. If there's a chance in getting you back in there though, I'll take it.'

>Roll1d20+2 WIL to convince Chris

OOC: Your write in will appear regardless of whether or not the roll succeeds.

Rolled 5 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2869681

Rolled 2 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2869681

Rolled 18 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2869681


>>2869682
>>2869684
Fuck, the shit rolls are back

>>2869685
nice save

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>>2869685
<SUCCESS> <DC - 17>

"How's about this", you start, earning a look from Chris, "we'll head inside for now, you included, and we can do swords after the others leave. We need to train as a unit, and we'll need close range to make that effective."

There's a pause in Chris as he looks at you. It's a look of curious interest, something that you also see reflected on Yukino's face. It was unsettling to see, but Chris gave you a reassuring answer soon afterwards.

"Haha, fine, you got me officer", Chris replies, going to pick up his big gun, "I'm game for it if you're willing to drive me back home afterwards. I don't have a clue where Dante went, but he's left the car back in the lot."

"Wait, where did Dante go?", Yukino asks, looking at both you and Chris, "we didn't seem him since the start...so we were getting worried about him as well."

"Oh don't worry about him", Chris responds, heading towards the warehouse, "he probably took another one of his 'zen walks' or whatever he calls them. He'll be back home before the night's over, trust me."

You there's a scratching feeling in the back of your mind over what Chris said. It eerily reminded you of Tanjeet's lonely walk back to his apartment. Granted, they were both very different people in how they were handling their grief, but you also remembered you didn't leave Dante in a very stable state. Chris's nonchalant response to it only seemed to make it worse.

Shaking part of those worries out of your head, you picked up Erick's sword and headed back inside with Yukino. No doubt, she was probably just as anxious as you were now.

<April 29th, Sunday 9:10 PM>

The three of you arrived back inside to a nice sight of the others finishing up the last of the targets. Judging by the amount of shattered tin and wood, the twins had managed to score the most targets compared to Allie and Tanjeet. Whether this spoke volumes of their coordination or skill, would be seen soon enough.

"Alright everyone", Kurtis starts up again, motioning to you and Chris, "We'll be switching it up a little this time. Group up near the long range."

The others do as Kurtis commands, except Allie who makes her way towards you.

"Hey, Kurtis", she starts up, looking over to him, "this training is great and all, but what are we gonna do if someone comes snooping around here? We're not exactly being the quietest around the block."

"We'll think of an excuse", you answer for Kurtis, earning a look from Allie, "who's gonna believe we're actually doing live fire training in here? Anyways, we need to get started with our teamwork exercises, so let's keep a clear mind about it."

Allie gives you a worried look, but Kurtis gives he a disarming face. She sighs a clear, 'fine', and returns to the group with the others.

'Who to train though..?'

>The Twins
>Tanjeet and Yukino
>Allie and Kurtis
>Write In

>>2869739
>>Tanjeet and Yukino

Let's try to make them useful and get Yukino started on the sword, we need to train with it too

>>2869739
Wait, we are all training together right? Or are we choosing those who will be near us during the teamwork exercise?

In any case, I'll support>>2869746 since the other 4 are good already

>>2869739
>Allie and Kurtis

>>2869739
>Allie and Kurtis
They're already good, so a bit better and they can train one of the remaining pairs while we take the other.

>>2869739
>>Tanjeet and Yukino

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>>2869746
>>2869754
>>2869801

You head over towards Tanjeet and Yukino, whom you hope will get the most out of the training as they are without legitimate partners with the group. Chris is in a similar situation without Dante, but you feel that he'll cooperate with anyone at this point. At least, so long as you keep him in line that is.

"Alright everyone", Kurtis commands, looking over to you, "we'll be working on a sustained fire drill from here on in. For this, I will need everyone with a rifle to fire off at a target."

The twins nod in unison, fixing their sights on two empty paint pails on the target tables.

"Everyone with melee," he continues, looking over a pile of similar paint pails, "run and set up another target for the auxiliary fire team. Anyone with a pistol or net gun, shoot down the target the melee people get for you, be sure to kneel as you do to let the long primary team shoot."

Allie and Tanjeet reply with an 'ok' and 'got it', as they kneel with their pistols.

"After the auxiliary team finishes their shot", Kurtis finishes, looking over to you, Yukino and Chris, "stab the table or the wall near the target's position. Finishing this, get another paint can to set up the next round."

"Hold on", Chris perks up, looking over Kurtis, "we're doing most of the work in this thing then! How is getting paint cans going to figure in an actual fight, Kurtis?"

"It's to condition your endurance and coordination", Kurtis replies, turning to Chris, "if you're focusing on melee, then you're going to be doing a lot of running anyways. If anything, it's unfair to them since you're getting cardio out of it."

There's a look on Chris's face that looks wondrously annoyed, yet he let's it go and returns to his spot. After Kurtis's speech, you and the others ready up near the targets and the paint pails, with him taking positions near the twins with his own rifle. After a shout of 'go!' and a resounding explosion from the first paint pail, you're the first to get a target.

>Roll1d20 + 2 INT to help them out with their training

>>2870955
OOC: Sorry about the wait guys, had a bad call from work.

Issue's been resolved now, so let's continue.

Rolled 14 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2870955>>2870964
no probs

Rolled 17 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2870955

Rolled 15 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2870955

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>>2871015
<GREAT SUCCESS> <DC - 13>
<50% Sustained Fire>
<Yukino Maneuver - Low Blow - Sliding attack that bypasses most enemy defenses and treats 18-19 as Crits for sword attacks>

<April 29th, Sunday 9:45 PM>

You run, faster and with almost no sense of tiredness in your body. Whatever part of your brain processing higher thought or pain begins to vanish. You precisely grab and set up your paint pails on the table, making sure to clear the blast radius after team's shots ring out. Then, you do this again with the next can, and the one after that; your body moving as accurately and quickly as you can until you drop your blade on the can to end each round.

You pay close attention to Tanjeet's timing with the shots, and notice that he's becoming reliant on Allie's timing for her reloads rather than that of the twins or your sword. You switch off with Yukino and instruct him to familiarize himself with twins's pattern. It only takes a round for him to quickly attune himself to it, and the barrage from him and Allie destroy the round's paint cans.

Yukino herself has similar issues, yet this is more because of her own size compared to the table rather than an actual issue with timing. You cleverly curtail this by instead suggesting that she slide under the table and stab the can from beneath. It takes her a round to get the hang of this maneuver but her suit's small frame makes up for her timing on the attack.

Of the several dozen of empty paint cans there were in that pile, only three remain before the exercise is over. While the group's dynamic seems to be much better than in museum, you understand that this is only a controlled environment. In spite of this, you congratulate the others alongside Chris on a good training session. Everyone, except Chris, who made it a priority to let you know to meet him outside as soon as you finish. Though, you would make an effort to see everyone off near the lot.

"Thanks Paula", Tanjeet says, holding his dufflebag over his shoulder, "couldn't have gotten the pattern down without you."

"No problem", you reply, but give him a concerned look, "but, you were also off during the clean-up as well. You sure you're ok, there Tanjeet?"

"Well...not really", he responds, looking down a little, "I've been trying to focus so much on this training because of Maria, but...every time I try to recall her I get more depressed. How can you remember Erick so much yet not feel sad when-"

"Is that Dante?!" Silvia's voice calls out, and to an approaching figure near the lakebed, "he looks like he's hurt or something."

You turn your head towards their pointing fingers. You can barely make out the figure's face in the night, though it's only just so given that its approaching at a surprisingly slow walk. For all intents and purposes, this is Dante given his sullen demeanor and broad shoulder. At the rate he's going, he'll arrive at the warehouse in a 10 seconds.

>Write In

>>2871205

go and meet him, if he is hurt maybe something happened or is following him

>>2871246
This, approach to see if he is alrigh, coutiosly get close and call out his name, look at his face

>>2871205
>Let him come in before greeting him

>>2871205
Backing >>2871246
Also backing the cautious approach of >>2871255, especially remembering the invisible alien that ransacked Erick's apartment. If aliens can go invisible, could they also fake voices...?

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>>2871246
>>2871255

You head to approach him, and the others follow alongside you. Probably out of concern, but you can imagine they're just as curious about his sudden reappearance. Given that you were the last person to see him, they've more than a right to know that you. Yet, as you approach him, it becomes very clear that something is not right with Dante.

His appearance is haggard and dripping with water, as parts of his jacket and suit are damp and dirty. There is a long streak of blood on his face, that seems to extend to his ear, and a waning leg that drags behind slightly as he moves forward. You don't waste any time and run to catch up to him. Moving to his side along with Kurtis, you both drag him by the shoulders over to the front of the warehouse. After placing him down near the entrance, he starts speaking.

"Those things we saw at the museum" he starts, a raspy tone in his voice, "they're here, looking at the warehouse over the other side of the shore. I found them...and got away, but...they didn't pursue after I made it to this side..."

"What?!" Kurtis shouts, and then stands up with his rifle in a ready position, "those lizard looking things? If they're still out there, we need to leave this place immediately. "

"If they knew we were here..." Allie responds, looking somewhat worried, "then...it's possible they might know where we live or where we'll be headed. If that's true...then it's not a matter of if but when they'll follow us..."

Everyone's faces go white at the possibility of an alien surveillance. You'd been made aware of this possibility not one week ago by Erick's home invader. Yet, for it to happen to the whole team seemed not only inconceivable, but also terrifyingly true. If Allie's speculation was correct, then it was only a question of how long they had been keeping tabs, not if.

"Aliens or not, Dante needs help", Tanjeet speaks up, looking him over, "I'll take him to the medical center in GW. Also, I need his regular clothes before I can head him inside."

Chris is one step ahead of him and hands him Dante's dufflebag, straight out of the backseat of his Sedan. The only question now remained, what to do about those aliens.

'If we even can do anything...'

>Scope them out, see what they're up to
>Face them, bring up the whole team and deal with them here
>Ignore them, and go home
>Write In

>>2871902
>Scope them out, see what they're up to

if they are aliens we will be called to kill them eventually, let's scope them but not engage, this is not like the hunt where our wounds will be healed

>>2871902
>Scope them out, see what they're up to
Also backing >>2871980 about reminding the others this is NOT a hunt - if you die, you DIE FOR REAL.

>>2871902
>>2871902
>Scope them out, see what they're up to

>>2871902
>Face them, bring up the whole team and deal with them here

SQUARE UP, THOTS

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>>2871980
>>2872029
>>2872055
>>2872130

"Where exactly did you spot them Dante?" you ask, causing Dante to give you a worried look, "look, I don't know how much time we have left, but I at least want to see what these things are after. I doubt they'd risk exposure if it wasn't important."

"Paula that's suicide and you know it", Kurtis responds, then pointing to Dante, "Dante made it would of there like this, and you want to go after them? We don't even know if they're there anymore."

"Which is why I am going alone", you reply, moving towards Dante again, "and I won't ask any of you to join me. Dante, please, just let me know where they are at. I will find them, see what I can dig up, and turn back the moment it looks too dangerous."

There are a few more voices of contention against your plan from the group, particularly Tanjeet and Kurtis. You can't blame them though, given how dangerous the plan you're suggesting will be. They're all silenced by a raspy shout from Dante.

"They're near these old tower things", he states, pointing towards the far side of the reservoir, "there's only two of them, but just one managed to do me like this. If they're still there, they should appear on the radar as you approach the area."

"Thank you, that's all I need", you say, looking to your radar and turning the knobs to activate your cloaking device, "I'll be back in a few guys, but feel free to leave now if you want. And leave me your keys Dante, I've got to drive your brother home."

The crackle of the electrical field on your suit starts up, as more of the group continues to try to talk you out of doing it. As you soon as you head running towards Dante's location, you swear you hear the crackle of another cloak.

<April 29th, Sunday 10:00 PM>

'Two of them, just like he said', you think, looking over your radar, 'They're in that moat right on front of those towers, but they're not moving or anything. Something doesn't seem right, but I have to see what they're up to...'

You head closer towards their location, making damn sure your steps are covered.

>Roll1d20+2 INT for reconnaissance in stealth

Rolled 4 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2872433
>>2872433

Rolled 18 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2872433
We get crits in SoL segments, right guys???

Rolled 19 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2872433

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>>2872525
>off by one
At least we didn't critfail

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>>2872525
<SUCCESS> <DC - 20>

You're not five feet from the edge of the moat, when your radar denotes another dot on the screen. You quickly turn around back to see a hooded figure approaching through a small bend over the hill. Judging by its size, and the shimmering crackle of the cloak around the body, it's one of your teammates. You try to motion to this one, and see that the alien's dots are moving away from your location.

There's not time to waste as you finish your way into the moat, ignoring that figure shadowing right behind you. Moving over the side, and placing yourself near the edge, you spot a familiar curly tail heading over a corner of the moat into what you can only assume is one of those towers in the field. You hurry along the motion of your pursuit, as you try to mask as much of your hurried steps towards your targets.

The dots lead you to an entrance in one of the towers, which leads to a staircase, up and down. Before you make a decision on where to go however, a pair of arms come up behind you and try to hold you back away from the tower. Whoever it is, they are strong but not skilled enough to maintain their hold for long. Shifting your weight towards the side of your hip, you bend a knee, and twist your body forward.

The attacker yelps, in girlish squeak, and is thrown against a side of the moat. You waste no time in heading over to your attacker, to find a familiar face beneath a black hoodie.

"Paula", Allie groans in slight pain, trying to keep her voice down, "please, listen to me. Don't go in there, we don't even know what those things can do."

"Damnit, Allie," you hiss back, almost glaring at her, "I did not come here to just walk away. I need to know what they want, especially if they're after us now."

"I understand but, not if you go rushing into certain death," she retorts, picking herself up, "if they show up again, we'll deal with them. But now, we need you with us, and not about to dig into some alien's headquarters."

There was a voice inside your head that told you to ignore her, probably knock her out if she tried anything again. But there was an opposing voice that said would have you listen to her and walk away from this. You only wanted to observe the aliens, yet you and Allie knew that the further you went into this, only more trouble would bring up. Yet, the possibilities were already there.

>Walk away, and head back to the others
>Make your way in, knock out Allie if she stops you
>Don't answer her, and just head back to the warehouse
>Write In

>>2872943
OOC: Alright guys, that's all for tonight.

Sorry about the late replies, still getting back into the swing of things. We still got some ground to cover, so I'll be up tomorrow after 4 or 5 PM EST for more Gantz.

Have a good evening /qst/.

>>2872943
>Don't answer her, and just head back to the warehouse

She's right, we oughta have the team backing us for this.

>>2872943
>>Walk away, and head back to the others

>>2872943
<SUCCESS> <DC - 20>
H O L Y
S H I T
>Walk away, and head back to the others
No. No. Fuck this. We're out. Bye.

>>2872957
It's fine man, this quest is some real good shit. Try not to be too down about low players and responses. Last hunt being such a clusterfuck and all those 1s being rolled made me actually feel like we're in Gantz. A little extra black comedy would help to push things even more towards authentic Gantz feel, but the grim seriousness and life-or-death situation feels are just right. Exploring the reality of aliens among us in the way you are is also really damn good, and not something Gantz did too much - except for the alien coming to the school to kill Kurono that one time. As long as you don't jump the shark and still remain aware of the pitfalls and bullshit Hiroya Oku did in the main canon, you'll be good.

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>>2873053
>>2873126
+1/2 Trust <Allie Pierce>

You take a look at the tower's entrance again. Even in the dark of the current night, the hole appears to be swallowing what light remains from the moon past its entrance. The possibility of answers, or at least information, regarding the aliens was a few steps away from you. Yet, you knew full well that your search for closure would be something deadly in the end. Letting out a frustrated grunt, you took a step back from the entrance and gave an almost apologetic look to Allie.

"I...hate to admit it" you start, furrowing your brows a little, "but you're right. I'm just so...tired from being in the dark about...everything."

"And we'll get there" Allie replies, putting a hand on your shoulder, "just, in a safer way. Hell, I spent nearly six years of my life snooping around for fake aliens, so finding out about real aliens can't be that hard."

You can't tell if it's because of the exhaustion of your mind, but you actually crack a smile at her joke. Allie returns the gesture in kind, taking her hand off your shoulder which you nod in response to before she turns around.

"Now, let's get out of here", she states, climbing to the top of the moat, "the others must be really worried since we were gone for so long. Hopefully Kurtis won't be too mad at me for just leaving."

You give her an understanding chuckle before following her out of the moat. As you and Allie return back to the others, you can't help but look back at the towers. For a brief moment, a feeling of regret wells up inside you at the lost chance of figuring out more about these things. It doesn't last long, as you turn back and follow Allie out of that field.

<April 29th, Sunday 10:15 PM>

As you and Allie made it back to the warehouse, you both took notice of the empty lot of cars and people now standing before you. You had expected a more worried reception upon your return, yet it was only Kurtis that seemed respond. It wasn't something that bothered you, as you knew Dante needed medical aid and the twins were probably returning home as it was. But there was something off about the current standing bodies in the lot.

"I was about to run out after you both", Kurtis worriedly states, and then turns to Allie, "and please tell someone if you're going to do something that reckless next time. This isn't a game in the real world you know-"

"We were fine Kurtis", Allie interrupts, looking around, "but the emptiness here is killing my vibe a little. I assume Tanjeet took Dante and the twins to that hospital of his, but what about Chris and Yukino?"

"Chris is looking over something Dante gave him near the car", Kurtis says, looking over to you now, "Yukino...is in my truck, sulking after we stopped her from going after you. I get she wants to be useful, but we can't risk her life like that."

>Go after Yukino, try to cheer her up
>Go after Chris, and see what's up with him
>Thank Kurtis and Allie, and drive home
>Write In

>>2875848
>Go after Yukino, try to cheer her up
We're not ditching Chris after our deal, and we can ask him about the mystery thing Dante gave him when we get to the sword training. About half an hour to an hour of it should be good enough for tonight.

>>2875848
>>Go after Yukino, try to cheer her up

>>2875848
>>Go after Yukino, try to cheer her up

>>2875848
>>Go after Yukino, try to cheer her up

>>2875848
>Go after Yukino, try to cheer her up

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>>2875853
>>2875890
>>2876054
>>2876789
>>2876081

"Give me a second" you state, heading towards the truck's passenger seat, "and unlock it, please. She's scared more than anything else."

There's a chirping sound from the truck as the locks disengage, allowing entry towards the back. Giving a 'thanks' to Kurtis, you open up the back and see Yukino looking down at the car's floor. Her sword and Y-Gun are laying right at her feet, yet she remains motionless until you open the door. She gives you a sullen look, and you try to smile sympathetically to ease her nerves.

"Hey there Yukino" you start, trying to sound as kind as possible, "sorry about worrying you and running off. But, I couldn't ask anyone to come with me since it was so dangerous."

"You sound like the others" she replies, hanging her head again, "they don't trust me to help out, like Erick did. I know I'm not as strong as Chris or Dante or you, but I can help you out as well."

"And I think you can help out" you continue, trying to go along with her train of thought, "and I know you've helped out in the past as well. But, I just want you to know that I could not live with myself if something happened to you as well."

"You're scared I'll end up like Erick", Yukino retorts, causing you to flinch, "not dead, but...angry and thoughtless in trying to kill. It scares me too, but I...don't know if there's any other way to live anymore..."

Her voice starts breaking as she continues her sentence. You can see a few tears forming in her eyes as she turns to you, and then the sword on your hilt. It wasn't something you wanted to see, so you pulled her in close to your arms. Yukino didn't cry, only sniffled as she nestled her head close to you. Throughout this, your mind lingered on the eerie truth behind her words.

It was something you wanted to deny on how Gantz was transforming her. All of the violence and killing was not something psychologically sound for anyone to see or experience. It was something Erick may have been trying to prevent, given how little spotlight he had put on Yukino beforehand. In truth, it was something that you had hoped would have been avoided. After Yukino's last few tears left her eyes, you let her go and let her alone for a moment to catch up with your thoughts.

"Erick wouldn't have acted that way normally", Kurtis spoke, almost startling you as he moved behind, "he was pushed against a wall and made a choice. And, it was the one thing that saved you and probably everyone else..."

"He was selfless in that much" Allie adds, moving towards the truck as well, "even at the very end. I'm ashamed to say it but...I don't know if I'd be strong enough to do what he did..."

Yukino's face perks up a little from their words. It was a nice way of transferring Erick's ideals towards Yukino, but you were nonetheless worried about what this could mean. Self-sacrifice was not something you necessarily wanted to replace that fear of rage she currently had.

>Write In

>>2878447
It was, I'll get stronger, I'll train everyday so he doesn't need to do that again when he's back. I'm angry at him but at the same time, that was him, from the moment I met him that was the way he was.

remembering when he died the first time to protect Paula and did it again not a day ago....fuck erick...why do you always have to save us.

Not anymore, by next week you are going to be stronger than anything that ball can throw at you, and you are bringing whoever wants to do it with you


damn I hope we can hold the tears

>>2878447
We have to kill to survive, but we have to stay together and train so we are prepared, so we don't end up in a situation we are at a disadvantage.

What I did right now was not right, I walked after those aliens without a plan and that could have got me killed for nothing. Its a good thing you didn't follow me in that mistake and we have to make sure we don't make those mistakes in the future

>>2878447
Backing >>2878479

>>2878447
Erick didn't go looking to die, he wanted to make sure everyone survived, including himself. I think we all should work towards that goal.

>>2879264
This is good too

>>2878447
Also backing >>2879264

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1.03 MB JPG

>>2878461
>>2878479
>>2879264

"Erick didn't go looking to die", you state, looking kindly at Yukino, "he wanted to make sure everyone survived, including himself. I think we all should work towards that goal."

"It's the reason why we're going to train like this as much as possible", Kurtis adds, crossing his arms, "we'll get stronger so he won't have to make that choice again, when he comes back."

"We'll prepare, every day if we have to" Allie continues, looking over to Kurtis, "so we never have another issue like the museum again. We still have to kill to survive, but we'll stay together here and in the hunts."

Yukino's face lifts up from her once downcast expression as you and the others reassure her. Her smile doesn't quite return, but she nonetheless nods an acknowledging gesture. There was more you wished to tell her, more you wished to reassure her with. You even wanted to apologize for going alone, and thank her for not making the mistake of following you anyways. At the end of it though, she shuffles back in the truck, grabs her things, and jumps out of the passenger's seat and next to you.

"Thank you", she says, looking at you and the others, "and sorry about the sulking...I was really scared when Paula went out, and it reminded me so much of what Erick did last."

"It's Ok, Yukino", you reply, smiling at her, "If I'm honest, I was angry at Erick for what he did, but at the same time it was just who he was. And it's all the more reason, why we should continue fighting."

"For him," Yukino finishes, with a hopeful look in her eyes.

The others now carried that same look, out of their own determination to see Erick return. And to have something and someone to return to. It made you glad to know Erick for who he was, but at the same time it also made you want him back all the more. You clenched your fist, and looked towards the sword on your hip, and thought of only the thought of seeing him back.

<April 29th, Sunday 10:20 PM>

Allie and Kurtis left shortly after that, saying their goodbyes to you and Yukino right afterwards. You had asked Yukino to go with them, but she insisted on staying behind with you and Chris. In spite of Yukino's dedication, it was getting quite late. She'd mentioned her father wouldn't be back until Monday, but it didn't make you feel any easier in keeping her up that long.

"Do you think he has any friends?", Yukino asks, walking next to you towards Dante's sedan, "besides Dante of course. Maybe that's why he's so crazy..."

"Yeah...crazy, that's a word for him", you reply, omitting some of the darker thoughts Chris recalled to your mind, "though, Dante probably knows the full story. Maybe we should ask-"

"Hey Paula!" Chris shouted, rolling down the window in the back seat, "let's go home. This whole Dante thing killed the mood."

>Drive home, ask Chris about that thing Dante gave him
>Drive home, talk to Yukino about <Choose Topic>
>Ignore him, and start training
>Write In

>>2880838
OOC: To anyone wondering about the trip, my internet is going haywire right now because of flooding that's been occurring in my area.

There's also a hurricane incoming to where I live, so if this happens again, then you know what happened with the internet.

>>2880838
>>Drive home, talk to Yukino about <Choose Topic>

Can Yukino stay with us if her father will only come back Monday? the company would be nice.... after that

>Drive home, ask Chris about that thing Dante gave him

>>2880838
>Ignore him, and start training

You can take a nap at the car if you want Chris.

Start training with Yukino, get buffed

>>2880844
Don't die. You need to live and save your stuff along with yourself.

>>2880838
Backing >>2881185

>>2880838
Backing >>2881185

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>>2881185
>>2881382
>>2881452

<April 29th, Sunday 10:45 PM>

You'd decided to return home with the Chris and Yukino, and opting to do your sword training at a different time. For how excited he had been to do the training, it really surprised you that Chris was the first to suggest cancelling it. It only made you more curious as to what had changed his mind so suddenly. Along with Chris's change of plan, you also couldn't stop thinking on Yukino's own state of mind as you left the McMillan Reservoir.

That callous and determined attitude had begun to erode that curious little girl you'd known before. You knew it was an inevitability given the nature of the game, yet there was something much darker lurking underneath you couldn't place your finger on. For that reason, along with probably giving you some company in that evening, you'd asked Yukino to stay the night at your place. It was a selfish request, yet Yukino agreed to it.

"Glad I brought my pajamas when Dante picked me up", she stated, quite excitedly, "makes slipping back into bed when I get back all the easier. Though, dad didn't say when on Monday he'd be back..."

"Hopefully it's not 12 AM on Monday," Chris chuckles, leaning his feat on Yukino's seat, " now that would be a dick move on his part. What does your dad even do shorty?"

"He does contracting work", Yukino replies, turning back from the co-pilot seat towards Chris, "like buying and selling lot's of stuff from people. Makes a lot of money though, and he likes it a lot."

"Wouldn't have imagined him as a business type", you add, stopping at a red light, "struck me more as a lawyer really. Still, glad to know he's doing something nice like that."

"Sure is", Yukino continues, and then turning back to Chris, "what about you Chris? What does your dad do?"

"He's a senator, end of story", Chris replies bluntly, then twirling a small object between his fingers, "makes lot's of money by talking and arguing with other senators. Sounds like a dream job if you ask me."

"Yeah, the mansion was a dead give-away", you responds, and eyeing the object in Chris's hand in your rear-view mirror, "also, what is that? Did you get it from Dante?"

"I did", he replies, showing it off to be a small worn key-chain with a penny on it, "it's Dante's, so he asked me to look after it up until he gets out of the medical center. Not my place to say what it is though."

"What's that?", you ask coyly, "is that an ounce of restraint from Chris? You're not like yourself tonight."

"Just drive the car, Paula", he scoffs back at you, before stowing the keychain back in his sweater pocket.

>Press further, ask him what's going on with it
>Drop the subject, talk to Yukino instead
>Change the subject, talk to him about something else
>Write In

>>2883075
>>Press further, ask him what's going on with it

>>2883075
>Drop the subject, talk to Yukino instead

>>2883075
>>Drop the subject, talk to Yukino instead

>>2883075
>Drop it.

He doesn't reepond well to pressure, he'll just get belligerent.

>>2883075
>Drop the subject, talk to Yukino instead
We're slowly winning Chris over, let's not ruin it

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>>2883088
>>2883096
>>2883482
>>2883488

You're not one to fold to some teenage punk's whims, but you would relent this time. Chris nestled himself comfortably in the back as you returned your eyesight to the road ahead. Though, with about 30 or so minutes until you arrived to his home, you decided to speak to Yukino instead. Whether Chris wanted to join in on the conversation, would be up to him and his little attitude.

<April 29th, Sunday 11:20 PM>

"I'll be back tomorrow night with Dante", Chris states, getting out of the car, "we'll pick up the car then. See you both around, for what that's worth."

You nod in reply, and Yukino does so as well, as Chris heads to the front doors. You don't wait around for him to get inside, as you pull the car back to the gate and out of the mansion grounds. The drive here had been surprisingly pleasant with Chris's surprising silence throughout your discussion with Yukino. The kid had honestly surprised you in how surprisingly calm he had been, to the point of almost seeming like another person.

You assumed it may have had something to do with that keychain Dante gave him. And if so, it must have some legitimate value to him or his brother. It'd have to be something that could prove useful in trying to get that kid to slow his roll at least a little bit. This train of thought was interrupted by a loud horn from behind you, signaling you to move forward back home.

"S-shit, sorry", you sputter, kneading your foot on the accelerator, "god, this whole night's got me in a daze right now...Didn't meant to scare you there, Yukino."

"It's ok," she replies, looking at the city through your window, "honestly, after that stuff down at the lake, I can take a little roadrage. Really though, I'm worried about Chris..."

You almost stopped again in the road at hearing Yukino say this. Dante had mentioned she and Chris were getting along fine, and it seemed that way on the way to Chris's house. But, Chris was still someone that was unapproachable on a social level. You knew how bad he could get, so the idea of someone caring for him like Yukino, almost made you do a double take.

"Why's that?" you ask, take a right, "Or, better yet, what's worrying you about him?"

"Well..." Yukino says, looking right at you on the rearview, "it's how he asks so cocky and violent and...scary really. I asked Dante before on how this happened, but he just replied that 'he was always a loose cannon, but he started going really crazy about a week and a half before Erick came into the picture.'"

"Do you think he's hurt?" Yukino asks, and you pause for a second, "I remember doing a lot of things to make bad memories or times not seem as terrible. Maybe...he's doing something like that, except more scary?"

>Probably, he's got to have a reason for it
>Nah, that kid's just crazy on his own
>Who knows...maybe Dante or Arnold Bowery?
>Write In

>>2886010
>Who knows...maybe Dante or Arnold Bowery?

>>2886010
>>Probably, he's got to have a reason for it

heather....but we don't know that

>>2886010
>Probably, he's got to have a reason for it

>>2886010
>Probably, he's got to have a reason for it

>>2886010
>Some people are just born wrong in the head, and all you can do is put them down.

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>>2886281
>>2886286
>>2886292

"Well, unless he's completely insane", you state, dipping slightly into the possibility, "he must have a reason to do what he does. It doesn't excuse him of course, but everyone has different ways of dealing with their problems, some healthier than others..."

"He reminds me a bit of Erick in that", she adds, almost making you do a double take, "I mean...Erick also seemed to be dealing with something as well. Only difference was that he always seemed ready to talk about it with us..."

"Yeah", you sadly agree, "no matter how bad it got for him, it seemed that he always relied on us to help him when he couldn't help himself. Though, something about Chris seems a little different...like, we're missing something in there as well."

"Mhm...maybe" Yukino agrees, with her brows scrunching up, "and assuming we're right, I want know what's causing it. He doesn't seem that bad when we talked about video games..."

"Is that what you two were talking about?", you ask in slight disbelief, with Yukino giving you a smiling nod, "well, can't really say I dabbled too much into that. The most I've ever done were those big, arcade cases with Galaga back in the day."

"Really?" she replies, and you give her a positive nod, "I thought you and Erick played all the time. He always played with me, and he was good, so I assumed he must have also introduced it to you since you live...with...him."

Yukino's train of thought comes to a dead stop upon realizing her slip in words. It didn't bother you that much, since it was a simple mistake on her part. What did hurt, was the look of guilt on Yukino's face right afterwards. Erick's departure was still a standing issue with the others, something you were trying your hardest to assuage.

"H-hey, don't worry about it" you state, trying to reassure Yukino, "Erick's not there anymore sure...but he'll back come the end of this week. Besides, I got you to keep me company tonight Yukino. Cheer up, ok...?"

Yukino lifts her head up to you with a look of remorse, but it quickly fades to a calm expression. You were not the best at talking people down, favoring more of a hand's on approach, but this at least prevented an awkward drive back to your apartment.

<April 29th, Sunday 11:35 PM>

After arriving back to your apartment, you let Yukino use the shower to freshen up from the training first. Figuring she'd go to bed first, it also made sense to have her use your facilities first. This would happen of course after she finished admiring the interior of your apartment. You had a late patrol tomorrow, so you would have time to take Yukino back home tomorrow morning and work on something tonight if you wished. Though, there was only so much time before you were just bound for a bed.

>Yukino's Case, investigate a little further with the information you have
>Erick's Letter, there was someone Erick was meeting tomorrow
>Go to bed early, and catch up on some rest
>Write In

>>2888003
OOC: Tomorrow is a full day of quest posting starting at 9:00 AM EST.

Stay tuned for more posts and updates tomorrow.

>>2888003
>Erick's Letter, there was someone Erick was meeting tomorrow

>>2888003
>>Erick's Letter, there was someone Erick was meeting tomorrow

>>2888003
>Erick's Letter, there was someone Erick was meeting tomorrow

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>>2888009
>>2888047
>>2888497

After fishing out the letter from the nightstand's drawer, you read the initial message. You'd been half hoping something would have changed on it, but it didn't.

<Gantz Lives. We Die. But You Are Not Alone. NY & DC.>

The words read more like a declaration rather than amicable message. If this really was the New York Gantz team, then they were being eerily cryptic about their intentions when writing this. Sure, it could confuse anyone but a Gantz player into thinking it was just some random message, but it wouldn't hurt to be a bit more on point about it. You flipped the letter over.

<2420 14th Street NW. Come Tuesday. If You Still Live.>

It seemed the late night and lack of sleep had made you lose track of time, as you checked your phone's clock to find out it wasn't Monday today. Not that it mattered though, as your schedule for tomorrow was exactly the same, unless that off hours request was processed for tomorrow. You shook off that worry, and instead focused on making more sense of the letter.

Whoever had written it, obviously didn't care about having their handwriting found out as their style was very clean. You could even take this down to the forensic's lab and have it analyzed to see who actually wrote it. Erick briefly mentioned a woman had given him this letter, but never really said who she was. She must have been very bold or stupid to do this, but you didn't pay more attention to it.

There was no timing on the letter either, just the location and the day for what you assumed was a meeting. The location was obviously the Gantz apartment, though they didn't list a room nor floor in which to meet up. What's more, without a time set up, it almost seemed like they were just expecting you to arrive at any given time in the day to that building. Though, this was assuming again that 'they' were many to begin with and not just that lady Erick mentioned.

"What you looking at Paula?", Yukino spoke, almost startling out of your concentrated reading.

>Tell her everything, best she knows as well.
>Give her the slight details, just enough to sate her curiosity
>Lie, she'd believe anything and it'd better Yukino didn't get involved
>Write In

>>2888558
>Tell her everything, best she knows as well.

>>2888558
>Tell her everything, best she knows as well.

>>2888558
>Tell her everything, best she knows as well.

>>2888558
>Give her the slightest details

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>>2888559
>>2888560
>>2888566
+1/2 Trust (Yukino Palmer)

"It's a letter Erick got before the last mission", you start, placing the letter on the bed, "we think it may have come from another Gantz team. And wanted to meet him on Tuesday for something, but...I am not sure what exactly..."

"If they're writing openly like this", Yukino replies, holding up the letter, "maybe they are telling the truth. It would be nice to meet other members who probably know more about this whole thing than us."

"That's what I'm hoping is going to happen", you respond, getting up from the bedside, "it's that I've been so paranoid with those...alien things appearing that I don't know what to trust."

"So, you are going to meet them", Yukino continues, as you make your way towards the bathroom, "but you said they wanted to speak to Erick. Maybe I should come with, I don't want to-"

"Not this time Yukino", you interrupt, stopping at the bathroom door, "I know we talked about you being useful, but I get this feeling they might be looking for just one person this time. Sorry..."

You hear a saddened 'Ok...' before you enter the bathroom. There were too many unknowns to place Yukino in danger. And you were through leaving things to chance, even if it meant diving into a chance encounter yourself. As you deactivated your suit, the only thought on your mind was how that meeting would go. If anything, it made sense to prepare for anything.

<April 30th, Monday 6:30 AM>

You awoke to the nudging and poking of a twelve year old's fingers. And your eyes catching a glimpse of her surprise as she rounded about the bed and pulled the covers off of you. It was an odd way of waking up, but you didn't really mind all that much given how Yukino was.

"Morning Paula!", she greets, as you rub your eyes and look over the room, "I would have made breakfast, but I don't know where you keep your pancake mix...I would have felt bad sifting through everything for it."

You'd allowed Yukino to have Erick's spot for the night, though it was mostly just because she begged you to not sleep on the sofa that night. It didn't feel right to sleep in the same bed, but you obliged her in the end. At least, that side didn't feel as lonely.

"Kind of crazy for you to be up this early", you state, getting off the bed, "but don't worry, I'll get some breakfast going. You got school today, right?"

"Yeah," she responds, walking out of the room with you, "but it doesn't start until 8, so we don't have too worry too much. We'll have to swing by my house though, my bookbag is there.'

>Roll1d20+2 INT to make some breakfast (Since Paula ain't exactly a good cook..)

Rolled 9 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2890010

we roll a 1 and burn the apartment down kek

Rolled 18 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2890010

Rolled 10 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>2890010
Nat 1 for food poisoning

>>2890010
jesus christ what kid wakes up that early naturally?
yukino confirmed for alien

>>2890781
She's not an alien. She's just Japanese.

>>2890086
We're a good cook bow!

>>2892455
cooking test = unnatural 20
escape certain death from croc aliens = nat 1
you guys know it's true

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>>2890086
<GREAT SUCCESS> <DC: 16>
+1/2 Trust (Yukino Palmer)

<April 30th, Monday 7:30 AM>

You've never been the best cook. Having gotten through home economics and a culinary arts class back home on a 'passable' grade, in only just to get you out of your previous instructor's care. This created your increased reliance on 7-Eleven and McDonald's for your breakfast options. Yet, in spite of this history, the meal you made for Yukino that morning was surprisingly good.

It was a small course of waffles, that were remarkably crunchy yet fluffy inside. A side of ham and eggs that were fried sunny side up for Yukino and over-well for you with just enough seasoning to make them delectable. Even the orange juice had a small kick going in at Yukino's suggestion to add carbonated water to it. If you didn't know any better, you'd swear Erick's own skills in the kitchen were rubbing off on you.

You and Yukino enjoyed it to no surprise. After cleaning up the dishes, and giving you time to freshen up, you both headed out for her house with haste. To your good fortune, it seemed that Mr. Palmer hadn't returned home yet, and Yukino quickly traded in her duffelbag and equipment for her backpack and a change of clothes for the day. Now, even if her father called, you would have the perfect excuse for driving around with Yukino for the day.

Morning traffic was still as bad as ever, but you thankfully arrived with time to spare at Yukino's school. Driving around the back, you unlocked the doors and let Yukino off for her classes.

"Hey Paula", she said, unlatching her seat belt, "if you do end up meeting up with that other group, could you ask them something for me?"

"Sure," you replied, handing her the backpack from the back seat, "what do you want me to ask them?"

"Well..." she adds unsure, but you give her a reassuring look, "I want to know if there people like Erick in their team as well. Psychics, with that unimaginable power."

"Of course", you responds, nodding your head, "I'll be sure to ask them that if I see them. Honestly, I was kind of curious myself about that as well."

"Thank you Paula!", Yukino acknowledges, and heads towards the school, "See you later!"

'Psychics...huh', you think, waving her goodbye, 'there must be more out there besides just Erick. But...why now...?'

You ponder on this as you head out of the school's departure zone. This whole thing with the psychics confused you, as you'd figured people would notice eventually. But, it was only recently and only through Erick's connection that you even knew it was a possibility. It almost overshadowed your mind over what else you needed to do today.

'Don't worry Yukino, you'll get your answer tomorrow.'

>Head to Chris, return his car back and see if he wants to train
>Head to Dante, and see if he's doing better
>Head to Tanjeet, and see if he and girls are good for some fun today
>Write In

>>2890781
Pretty much this. >>2890935

>>2892455
Not quite, but maybe some more practice can help.

>>2892506
Funny how fortune works, huh?

>>2893129
>>Head to Chris, return his car back and see if he wants to train

>>2893129
Get swole
>Head to Chris, return his car back and see if he wants to train

>>2893129
>Head to Chris, return his car back and see if he wants to train
As big of a dick as Chris is, I think it'd honestly be good to form a rapport with him. He's surprisingly not all that incompetent, and I feel like he'd be a lot easier to manage if he respected the person trying to manage him.

>>2893183
I'd like to train with him just because he is the best option for sword play, I don't think he is capable of respecting anyone since Erick was the badessest of the badass and he was still a spoiled brat around him

>>2893129
>Head to Dante, and see if he's doing better

>>2893129
>Head to Chris, return his car back and see if he wants to train

>>2893233
I think you're overestimating Erick a bit there.

>>2893789
I'm overestimating the guy who droped a fuckibg church on top of a messias alien with the power of his head? Ok then....

I get it that Chris didn't see it but Erick is leaps and bounds the best hunter this group had

>>2893129
>Head to Dante, and see if he's doing better

>>2893812
He had MC bonuses and psychic powers, of course he was.

>>2893872
The fact that he was is the whole point.

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>>2893135
>>2893170
>>2893183
>>2893731

You never managed to get Chris's number, which would make your arrival a little unexpected. In reality though, you already had the excuse for arriving this morning in returning Dante's car. The only challenge would be persuading Chris to some one on one training on your part. Taking a detour for your house to grab your gear, you hoped that today wouldn't have many more complications.

<April 30th, Monday 8:45 AM>

"Yes?", Joel's raspy voice speaks over the speaker, "Please state your business and your name and I will ask the master to let you in."

"Joel, it's Paula Torrez", you reply, and the speaker buzzes a little with static, "I'm here to return Dante's car and to speak to Chris. Please let me in, I don't want to keep him waiting long."

There is a reply of, 'Hold on a moment', before more static comes over the speaker. The gate to the Bowery estate remained motionless as you waited for a reply. After a minute or so, and probably trying to come up with a better excuse to be let in, you heard another bit of state from the speaker again.

"I will open the gate", Joel speaks again, and you would have sigh if not for the rest of the sentence, "however, Master Arnold Bowery has requested to speak with you beforehand. Please enter."

'Great', you mentally chide, as the gates to the mansion open, 'so much for no more complications. What could he possibly want now?'

You drove the car through the gate and parked it near the front entrance to the mansion. As you exited it however, you saw the front doors open up with some figures exit out. There were three of them, two of different heights, and one man with a large briefcase in tow. Their clothes were distinct, with the man wearing an expensive suit and tie, the smaller woman wearing an unbuttoned blazer, and the taller one wearing an asian looking suit.

In spite of the distinct clothing, all of them wore sunglasses. You couldn't help but look at them exit the door, yet they seemed to pay no attention to you as they all departed to the mansion's parking garage. Their skin appeared a fair complexion, until you spotted a curios sight on the back of the taller girl's neck. A spider or some sort of insect was tattooed with white and silver on her skin.

"Those aren't-", you start, but your thought is gone the moment your hear a distinct, official voice behind you.

"Officer Torrez", Arnold Bowery states, and you turn around to face him, "pleasure to have you this morning. Follow me to the study, I need to speak to you."

You do as you're told, as you enter the mansion and follow Senator Bowery to his study. You'd listen to what Bowery had to say, but you would equally make some of your own.

>Who were those people? (Paula recognizes them as possible Triad Mob Members)
>What is going on with Chris? He doesn't seem all that stable...
>Dante is currently in the hospital. Doesn't that concern you?
>Write In

>>2893233
>>2893789
>>2893812
>>2893872
Just to be clear, Chris did respect Erick as a player but did not consider him an equal.

That is, until Erick gave up his life. He thinks of him as a good leader.

>>2894091
>what would you like to talk abou?

>>2894096
>Joshua never got in a position where he could give up his life in any meaningful way
>Joshua ditched the game and cucked everyone with a mean as fuck betrayal
>Erick was always up front where the risk was highest and death was everywhere, and he was a literal psychic
>Erick died like a true fucking hero to help everybody else out
Glad it took dying tragically to get Chris' respect. :^)

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>>2894091
>Dante is currently in the hospital. Doesn't that concern you?
>Who were those people? (Paula recognizes them as possible Triad Mob Members)

>inb4 Triad Mob are aliens
>inb4 the government through Arnold Bowery is in league with the aliens
>inb4 everybody not on the Gantz team is fucking aliens all along
>inb4 no vampire prettyboys on the side of humanity
>inb4 no based Alucard-like vampire bro to work with us outside of hunts to investigate enemy aliens

>>2894157
This

>>2894091
>Dante is currently in the hospital. Doesn't that concern you?

>Who were those people? (Paula recognizes them as possible Triad Mob Members)
>What is going on with Chris? He doesn't seem all that stable...

All if possible, otherwise preference in this order.

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>>2894157
>>2894306
>>2894610

The study was as lavish as you remember, with a Moose head fixture in the back wall overlooking an empty fireplace. Senator Bowery sat down in a couch across from you, almost reclining on the upholstery. You sat across from him on a longer couch, with the only division point being the black coffee table between the two of you.

As you and the senator settled down, Joel arrived with a tray of tea and blueberry muffins and placed it on the table. There was a large, silver kettle and two equally large teacups next to it. Joel wasted no time in pouring you both an good portion before leaving with the kettle and the tray.

"I hope the Earl Grey is to your liking", Senator Bowery declares, picking out a large teacup from the table, "we didn't expect your visit, so this is the best Joel could do on short notice."

"No, by all means, it looks great", you reply, taking your own teacup from the table, "it certainly smells pleasant. But, I understood that you wanted to talk to me Mr. Bowery?"

"Yes, in fact I did", he continues, taking another sip of his cup, "but first, I never had the chance to properly thank you for finding and bringing back Chris. I trust your boyfriend doesn't have anymore issues with the bureau?"

"Not that I am aware of", you respond, and look down for a second when he mentions Erick, "but I accept your gratitude, I only did as any other officer would have done. And I assume Chris or Dante must have told you about us already."

"It was Joel, actually", he states, placing his half empty cup on the table, "though, I am glad to know you're reliable. You're like that Indian woman down in the hospital, always on time with a report. Like last night, she told me that Dante had arrived with a broken leg if you can believe it."

"That's concerning", you state, trying to play along with his narrative, "though, you seem not all that worried. Not to sound too bold, but it's a little cold to just say like that."

"Please", Bowery retorts, waving his hand, "Dante is a mature enough young man to know the consequences to his actions, and he should be treated as such son or not. But, we're straying far from my topic inquiry now."

'Yeah, you don't say', you think as the senator grabs a muffin.

"There's actually a more pressing concern", he states, looking over you with the muffin in hand, "over the last year, there have been a stream of strange incidents in this city. Yet it wasn't until the last few weeks where they started to get more violent."

"But, they don't seem to stop nor start in DC", Bowery continues, taking a bite out of that muffin, "in fact, similar incidents occurred in New York this year as well, but were labeled as petty crimes in the media. And I think you, and your father can help me find a connection."

>I refuse, leave my father out of your affairs!
>I refuse, and how do you know my father?
>I'll agree, but what do you want?
>Ok, but how can he help?
>Write In

>>2894892
>Why do you think I could, or would get involved?

he has something on us, let's hear it

>>2894892
>Ok, but how can he help?

Should be easy enough to cover up whatever we need to if we're on the search team.

>>2894892
>Ok, but how can he help?

>>2894920
This but less angagobistic, as what does it have to do it us and our father

>>2894892
>>Ok, but how can he help?
"I hope the Earl Grey is to your liking" This nigga knows what's good

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>>2894925
>>2894995
>>2895468

'What the hell...?' the thought races in your mind, as your breath briefly stops, '...how does he even...? Something's not right, but I may as well hear him out."

"Ok," you answer, but eye him carefully, "but how can he help? He doesn't have ties with the police or-"

"Believe it or not, this doesn't have much to do with the police," Bowery interrupts, his expression unchanging, "rather, it has to do with public awareness. Something your father is an even bigger expert in than myself."

You could tell it irritated him to admit it, and you knew very well how right he was. Papá Emilio, as you'd called him since you were 5, was well known in Coldwell Banker as public relations figurehead. Even if his executive job kept him from overseeing individuals, everyone knew well enough how quickly and efficiently opinion could be changed under him. Though his name was public in the company, his methods were oftentimes classified as trade secrets.

"I don't have many friends in New York", he continues, placing the muffin back on the table, "and even fewer wiling to put aside political preconceptions to help me out. Which is why I need your father's influence there to make the connection more tangible to the public."

"Wait, but my father has nothing to do with politics", you respond, somewhat confused, "sure he's an executive, but how does that help you influence-"

"He's a businessman", he interjects, "believe me, he's as close to politics as any of those clowns in the Senate. His expertise in both marketing and social engineering to cause a change in perspective."

"How do you know this much?", you reply, eerily curious, "Are you another one of his business partners?"

"I have you to thank for that actually", Bowery answers, finishing his tea, "your initial involvement with Chris caught my attention and I needed to give you a quick background check just to be safe. I wish my son was more like you actually, willing to throw away comfort for an honest life."

You don't get a chance to respond as Senator Bowery leans into the coffee table. His face approaches your own and he just stares you in the eyes. You almost flinch at his movement, before he starts speaking again.

"You remind me of my ex-wife" Bowery bluntly states, causing you to blink, "but, getting back on topic, I need your father's help to make a trivial occurrence into a headline for New York. After the connection is brought to light, the push for heightened security in this city will be finalized."

"Now", Bowery finalizes, and hovers his hand over the table, "do I have your support in this?"

>Shake his hand, Sure
>Decline, I can't do this
>Inquire, what's in it for me?
>Write In

>>2897676
>I have to ask - does this business have anything to do with those Triad members?

>>2897676
>I have to ask - does this business have anything to do with those Triad members?

>>2897691
This

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>>2897691
>>2897700
>>2897849

"Before I agree", you state, shifting your gaze from Bowery's hand back to his eyes, "I have to ask if this business has anything to do with those Triad members leaving the house earlier?"

Senator Bowery's expression doesn't falter or change at your question. You figure he's probably putting up a detached front, but you also don't know if he saw you looking at them as they exited the doors. If he did, he may just not care that you know already.

"It's an unrelated topic actually", Bowery replies, not dropping his extended hand, "they're actually part of Chinatown's planning and development council. Whether they're associated with a tong or triad back in their country, doesn't really matter all that much so long as they don't cause any trouble for the city."

"Wait, so they are Triad members then?", you respond, somewhat aghast, "Senator Bowery, how can you associate yourself with a criminal group in this city? Aren't you pushing for a higher police presence of all things?"

"You'd do well not to take that tone with me in my house" Bowery bluntly states, retracting his hand from the table, "as well not pry into my affairs any further than this. But, if you want to implicate me that badly, I won't stop you."

There was a nascent cockiness in Chris that you imagined originated form his father. Yet, instead of bluster and bravado, Bowery's confidence was more sinister and subtle. It almost pissed you off how sure of himself he was, yet you knew full well that even if you had a case against him, it was not a good idea to make an enemy of him quite yet.

"Even if I wanted to", you admit, knowing full well how badly it would go, "I still have things that I need to do today. But, given the circumstances, I don't know if I can go along with your deal yet."

"Do as you wish then", Bowery says, reclining back in his seat, "I'll give you some time to think it over. I recall you came here for Chris; you'll find him in home theater downstairs."

<April 30th, Monday 9:25 AM>

You nodded out of courtesy to Bowery, thanked him for the tea, and made your way out of the study. Not knowing where exactly the stairs were, you asked Joel to lead you to the home theater room. You could tell he was almost whinging at going down there, but he led you all the same. Upon reaching a large set of doors, and the muffled sounds of gunfire and explosions behind them, Joel wished you the best of luck before departing.

After giving him a look of slight disbelief, you gave the doors a set of three loud knocks. Only after the third, did you hear the explosions stop and a few curses approach the door.

"I already told you I AM NOT HUNGRY, JOEL-" Chris shouts, and then stops as he opens the door to look at you, "Paula? What the hell are you doing here?"

>I got Dante's car, you want to go visit him?
>What you watching? Can I join in?
>Drove here to talk, and see if you still want to sword train
>Write In

>>2898136
>Drove here to talk, and see if you still want to sword train

>>2898136
Backing >>2898176

>>2898176
this

>>2898136
>Got Dante's car, you wanna visit him?

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>>2898176
>>2898187
>>2898600

"I got Dante's car back", you say, motioning upstairs, "so you didn't have to come and get it at night. Really though, I came to talk and see if you were up for some sword practice."

Chris gives you a quizzical look, which he doesn't drop as he exits the home theater in full, closing the door behind himself.

"Huh," he responds, while leaning on wall, "didn't think you'd actually take me up on the offer so soon. I think it's the first time an officer's come asking for my help."

"Don't flatter yourself too much", you reprimand, crossing your arms, "just because I recognize your skill when it comes to that. Also, because I'm frankly worried about you."

"Really now?" Chris questions, raising an eyebrow, "I always thought you hated for what happened to Erick. Sure, the others blame Claire, but don't think I don't hear what Yukino and Kurtis are saying behind my back."

It was partially true that you blamed him for Erick's death. If he hadn't killed that green alien, maybe their leader wouldn't have gone berserk during the ceasefire. From the moment you met Chris, you knew this kid was a rash idiot did rather than think. Yet, in spite of this, Erick and Dante had known or seen something about him to place a degree of trust in him in spite of his mentality.

"I haven't actually heard", you answer, hoping to ease the conversation, "but I have to admit it was more circumstantial than they're giving credit for. It's actually about something you mentioned back on the drive yesterday."

Chris furrows his brow at the mention of this. He's probably figured out you're referring to that pendant penny you saw him fumbling with. You'd seen him have an unusually close connection to it. The only more genuine connection you'd seen him have was his relationship with Dante.

"So, let me get this straight", Chris states, moving from the doors and to the main hallway, "you drove all this way looking for a fight, just because you're worried about me? And it's all because of Dante's pendant, am I right?"

"You're making me sound crazy here", you admit, smiling smugly at him, "but yeah, more or less. It seems the only way to get through to you is with a fight."

"HAHAHAHAHHA!!" Chris laughs, a derisive and almost maniacal laugh, "Holy shit, that is some funny shit right there Paula. You know what, fuck it, let's go, but not here of course. Wait for me in the car, I need to get my gear."

'Not the most agreeable of circumstances,' you think, as Chris departs for the upstairs still giggling to himself, 'but at least he's willing. Now, where do we do this...?'

>The warehouse, we can just jump the fence
>Georgetown, on the roofs
>You choose it, Chris
>Write In

>>2900741
>You choose it, Chris
Fuck it, surprise me.

>>2900741
Backing >>2900755

>>2900741
>>You choose it, Chris

no harm here, the place doesn't matter that much, we have to learn to sword better to get Erick back

>>2900741
>Roofs of Georgetown

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>>2900755
>>2900806
>>2900841

<April 30th, Monday 10:20 AM>

"Any particular reason we're heading out here?", you calmly ask, as the asphalt of the city turns to a more dirt paved road, "it doesn't seem anymore secluded than our regular training grounds. And I didn't take you for an outdoor's kind of guy."

The two of you had departed from the house after readying yourselves with your gear. Joel bid you both farewell yet,unsurprisingly, Senator Bowery didn't so much as bat an eye as you and Chris left the house. He didn't even say good bye or give his son a wary look as Chris entered the car with you. There was a hint of anger and sadness at the lack of gesture, yet you didn't think on it much as Chris directed you to your training location.

"Don't really care for the outdoors", Chris replies, reclining on the co-pilot seat, "but there's something to fighting with swords in a forest. Sounds baddass, for one, but the trees can be good for chopping practice."

"Makes sense", you agree, coming across a clearing off the main road, "and I'll have to keep my eye out for your instructions. This whole sword fighting thing is so new I can hardly believe I picked up on it so quickly."

"Heheh," he giggles, before moving a little too close to you, "I've been wondering about that now Paula. You sure you don't have some samurai blood in that rack of yours?"

His lewd comment makes you roll your eyes, but it doesn't throw off your concentration in parking the car. The smack to your left breast on the other hand, almost makes you turn the car into a tree as you nearly jump in your seat. Chris laughs like a maniac at your reaction, as you growl irritably. He would receive a backhand across the face a second after you finished parking.

"You little shit", you hiss at him, getting out of the car and heading for the passenger seats, "you've got a lot of nerve trying that shit with an off duty officer. You'd better believe if it wasn't for the training-"

"Oh lighten up", Chris interrupts, grabbing his dufflebag, "just complimenting your good sword skills and your bomb ass...well everything really. Erick sure picked himself a winner."

'This little...', you chide in your mind, closing the car door, '...no...I should be adult here and not play into his bullshit. And he was doing so well and quietly up until now...'

"That's not a dig at Erick though", he states, heading to your side of the car, "like, I'd love to have a chick on my side like he does. Though, I wonder how he feels about me seeing your bare ass first?"

>Write In

OOC: Two more updates from me before I archive this one.

I hope this very slow posting hasn't destroyed too much interest. Legit, it's just been hard getting back into the swing of things.

>>2902423
>I'm going to be level with you, Chris. That kind of commentary and behavior is just plain creepy and insensitive. I don't appreciate it, and Erick...Erick won't appreciate it either when I bring him back. I understand that you mean well, but try to think about how it'd feel to be in my shoes - getting hit on and sexually harassed so soon after the death of the love of your life isn't nice in any way.

I feel like the dude just needs someone to be straight with him and to lay things out. Chris seems like the guy who does shit without thinking about it, so he might understand if we GET him thinking about it.

>>2902425
Thread might die in a day FYI, we're on page 10

>>2902423
Backing >>2902471

>>2902471
certainly this, this kid has been just inconvenient and creepy all around

>>2902471
+1

Can we just train and you stop trying to be the worst most pathetic ntr adolecent ever?

>>2902423
>>2902471 is literally perfect.

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>>2902471
>>2902484
>>2902966
>>2902989
>>2903466

"I'm going to be level with you Chris", you state, in a serious tone, "that kind of commentary and behavior is just plain creepy and insensitive. I don't appreciate it and Erick...won't appreciate it either when I bring him back."

"Wait, is that what this is about?", he chuckles, then grins at you, "you got me all wrong, it's just some fun on the side for me. I wouldn't dream of going after you, since Erick got to you first."

"I understand you mean well, but", you continue, earning a raised eyebrow from him, "try to understand it from my point of view. Getting hit on and sexually harassed so soon after I lose someone I love isn't nice in any way."

"Fine, whatever", he huffs in frustration, rolling his eyes, "I'll try to be a little 'nicer' to you, for now at least. But any of the girls still there and that come in are still fair game though."

'He just never fucking learns...' you think in frustration, trying very hard not to just shake Chris into sense, 'what kind of father lets his kid grow up like this...'

"Anyways, if you're done nagging at me", he adds coyly, motioning to a cleared path into the forest, "there's a creek near the center of the forest we can use as a training ground. Lot's of logs and plenty of space, so let's go officer."

You exhale in frustration at how thickheaded this kid is, yet you nod in agreement anyways. It seemed that he either ignored you outright, or is denying what you said for the sake of his own stupid attitude. That horndog attitude of his that had almost gotten someone killed and scarred someone else. Whatever the case, it was at least going to make for a quieter walk through the calm woods.

<April 30th, Monday 10:35 AM>

True to his word, surprisingly enough, Chris kept his mouth mostly shut for the majority of the hike. And thankfully, for Chris's sake since you would have punched him out if he tried groping you again, you both made it to the clearing in a short enough amount of time. In any other day, the site would have looked picturesque with the trickling brook and chirping birds in the sunny weather.

"What do you think?", he asks, dropping his dufflebag near the bank of sand, "found this place a while back during a nighttime camping trip. Though, that was before that family dissapeared here."

"I remember hearing about that", you start, then look at him with a strange look, "bodies were never found, but they said the riverbank smelled of corpses for a week. But...yeah, it looks fine, I guess."

"Don't smell like corpses now", he adds, taking out his sword, "anyways, let's get to working on stroke or motion or whatever they call it. I'll even let you choose what we chop first, since I'm being so nice."

'Gee, thanks...'

>Chop a log, should be easy enough
>Chop a tree, could use a lot of strength
>Chop a boulder, can the sword even do that?
>Write In

>>2904949
>>Chop a tree, could use a lot of strength

damn, he brought us where Haley died

>>2904949
>Chop a tree, could use a lot of strength

And if we have no problem with it we move to

>Chop a boulder, can the sword even do that?

>>2905082
Supporting

Also, what is Chris's deal? Like, I thought this didnt matter to him anymore. Why is he being sentimental, if that.

>>2905108
I would like if he still felt something about her

>>2905122
Maybe he does and he's being a child about the loss.

Like, he he's denying it happened or something like that to not feel awful?

>>2905139
quite possibly, try to convince himself it doesn't matter since they are all going to die

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>>2905082
>>2905106
>>2905108

Many of the logs around this area are too waterlogged or dried up to really give you all that much of a challenge. And you're not entirely sure the sword's durability is strong enough to withstand a strike against a rock. To which your mind arrives on the middle of the road answer with a standing tree. There's plenty of them around, and a couple chopped down probably won't cause too much of a panic.

"Let's try it out on these trees", you states, pointing to a robust oak near the brook's edge, "Even if the blades are thin, the suit can probably power through the trunk."

"Cool, let's go", Chris replies, loving towards an oak next to it, "see if you can knock it down in one swing. Hell, see if you can cut it vertically!"

'This kid is too into this...', you think, approaching your tree, 'but this shouldn't be too hard.'

"Also, open up your legs a little apart", Chris instructs, demonstrating it with his own, "it'll make swinging this thing a lot better. That, and a good grip."

You do as he instructs, spreading your legs a little farther apart. Readying your sword to your front, you visualize the sword's strike guiding your hands to a line. In a single swing, you would trace that line.

>Roll1d20 + 4 AGR (-3 DC for STR)

Rolled 9 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>2905213

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>2905213

Rolled 13 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>2905213

Rolled 16 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>2905213

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>>2905233
<GREAT SUCCESS> <DC: 19 - 3>
+1/2 Trust <Chris Bowery>

You let out a howl of fury as your suit activates on your swing. The air seems to split apart as your blade moves blindingly fast at the oak, leaving only a ringing sound in its wake.The motion is vertical, as if almost trying to cut the tree down the middle in spite of the blade's size. The blade doesn't so much as collide with the tree, as it instead moves through it. There are no splinters, no heavy indent, not even an indent of where you cut it. The fluid motion from your arms lasts less than a second as your eyes open up to your handiwork. A slice, no a clean cut spreads from the point of contact with the tree to a vertical incline leading to the edge of your blade.

Before you can admire your handiwork, you hear a familiar sound of air splitting. You turn to look at Chris, and the massive oak he just cut diagonally apart. There is a splintering sound as the oak's trunk collapses in on itself and brings the entire thing tumbling down. It thankfully falls away from you, but it sends several pounds of leaves and twigs lingering in the air.

"Goddamn, I love this thing", Chris states, then turning to you, "also, don't shout like that, almost made me cut myself on this thing. And- Jesus christ, I didn't think you'd actually try to cut it down the middle."

"The sword and suit are the big thing here", you responds, as Chris inspects the cut on the tree, "you'd either need a lot of force or something impossibly sharp to make a cut like this. If we extend the blade, we could do it."

"Heh, maybe", Chris replies, and the moving back from the tree, "Though, with how long these things get, it might get really hard to swing them. This whole session is getting more fun by the second."

<April 30th, Monday 12:00 PM>

It must have been at least four or five other trees you and Chris cut down before calling it quits. True to what Chris said, the swing on the long blade was difficult but more because of space rather than power. The suits were more than capable enough to handle the swing of something that long, but you weren't sure the forest was. Through all of this, Chris actually proved to be a capable teacher, but more through showing than explaining. After slicing up parts of the remaining trees, you both sit down near the brook.

"How did you get so good at this again?", you ask, genuinely perplexed, "I don't know if you can get this good through just samurai movies."

"Heh, not really", Chris replies, fiddling through his phone, "my dad brought in a lot of teachers when I was growing up. One of them just happened to know Kendo, and I still remember a lot of what he taught me."

'He's just full of surprises', you think, and then turn to your vibrating phone, 'he's still a massive tool.'

Opening up your phone, you look through a message from Luis.

<They approved your papers Paula. You've got the week off>

<Session End>

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>>2905343
Alright guys, thank you all for sticking around for so long in spite of the odd update schedule I've sequestered you all into.

I'll set up a new thread tomorrow around 6 PM EST to quickly continue from where we're leaving off.

The regular schedule still stands, but if we slow down like this again, please try to bear with me as I am still trying to get back into the swing of things.

Anyways, thank you for joining us tonight /qst/.

>>2905351
Thanks for running man, see you tomorrow

>>2905351
Never feel disheartened, Boli. This quest is real good shit.