>>3287541
Still, her attitude is a marked difference from what you recall her originally acting like. “You seem a lot less...reserved than you were when we met,” you note, to which she looks at you in mild confusion. “Any reason?”

“Really? Well, yes, I suppose that WOULD make sense. Many of those I’m around often are aware of my...position, and so tend to keep their behaviors around me...brief.” Her expression comes to something a bit more dour as she explains. “I suppose the idea of no longer being around people that think of me that way lends itself to some excitement.” Suddenly, her mouth deepens into a frown. “Is it too much?”

“Nah,” you wave off. “Just wondering. “Guess it makes sense, considering you were some kind of bodyguard to your own mom and aunt, right? How’s that feel?”

“I’m fine with it,” she says easily. “It was the path I chose. Despite my difficulties in knowing friends, I certainly consider it worth it to be able to help protect my family from all threats.”

“Is that what that whole ‘Watchers in the Dark’ thing about?” you continue. “Basically elite guards?”

“Something of that sort,” she explains. “We are the ones who keep watch on threats within and without, to protect anyone who would do innocents or their loved ones harm. We stalk in the shadows, and strike before we are seen, to render them unto the sisters to receive judgement for their crimes.”

> “Sounds fun. Any stories?”
> “In a society of psychics, I didn’t think that’d be needed.”
> “Well, let’s hope you can put those skills to the test soon.”
> Other

>>3287545
> “In a society of psychics, I didn’t think that’d be needed.”
> “Sounds fun. Any stories?”
Might as well share some stories as well. Anyone got a good one that we could tell without revealing too much?

>>3287545
>> “In a society of psychics, I didn’t think that’d be needed.”

>>3287545
>> “In a society of psychics, I didn’t think that’d be needed.”
> “Sounds fun. Any stories?”
I could easily see an Outgoer with a hobby of collecting stories, same as Mono loves seeing new people and places.

>>3287545
> “Sounds fun. Any stories?”
> “In a society of psychics, I didn’t think that’d be needed.”

>>3287545
>“In a society of psychics, I didn’t think that’d be needed.”
> “Sounds fun. Any stories?”

>>3287545
>>3287554
>>3287556
>>3287564
>>3287593
>>3287615
You have to admit, that kinda surprises you given what you know about them. “In a society of psychics, I didn’t think that’d be needed.”

“Oh yes!” she affirms quickly. “Not every Veilspeaker is as attuned as others, and not all are so benevolent as my mother and aunt. Some try to abuse their gifts, to a point beyond where it’s acceptable to the clan. That is where we step in.”

“Sounds fun enough. Any stories?” you ask. “You share one, I share one?”

“Oh! Interesting...alright, then!” What follows is a series of trading stories back and forth- she’d tell you about the time when she had to stop a group of Veilspeakers from selling business secrets to merchant humans, you’d mention the time you infiltrated a business consortium (leaving out much of what would make no sense to her, of course) in order to destroy their research (and the entirety of their blacksite) on behalf of your employer, and so on.

This continues until you get back to Lizardville, (you’ve forgotten the name of the place already, will have to look that back up real quick), upon which you’re greeted with welcomes- and once you get to the High Judicator’s halls, a good many hails. Za-Leil is the one to greet you. “Excellent- success. My people have gathered, as promised.” Indeed, once you head over to the barracks, you find that it’s a pretty decently sized group, many armed with spears and maces, some bows- overall somewhere over two hundred or so. As the Prince and Si-Han overlook the new recruits, Za-Leil holds Braun and yourselves back. “I hold a missive for you, strange warriors. From your bearfolk at Dulwark,” he says the last looking to Braun.

The bear looks surprised. “From mine? What does it say?”

“I have not read. Here.” He hands the parchment to you, and you take it, Braun and Izumi looking over your shoulder.

‘Captive has been transferred to Dulwark. Requests audience with ‘Sabereye and Swiftrunner. Claims importance, refuses to talk otherwise.’

Huh. Odd. Braun’s the first to speak, though. “A falsehood. Were it important, she would not fear stating so now. Likely a trifle made to sound crucial. We shouldn’t waste time on her.”

“Well, perhaps, and perhaps not.” Izumi opines. “I won’t deny I’m curious…”

> “I am, too. Come on, we’ll go get her. Shouldn’t take too long...”
> “It can wait. We’re going up north; get her transferred later.”
> “Send a message back- she’s going to need to put it in writing.”
> Other

>>3287719
> “I am, too. Come on, we’ll go get her. Shouldn’t take too long...”
Nu-uh, mr Bearington. Your grudge can wait until we're done with this mission.

>>3287719
>> “I am, too. Come on, we’ll go get her. Shouldn’t take too long...”

>>3287719
>> “It can wait. We’re going up north; get her transferred later.”
Eh, she had plenty of time to tell us some important piece of info during the couple of days we were over there, and now she's got something for us? Smells fishy.

>>3287719
>> “I am, too. Come on, we’ll go get her. Shouldn’t take too long...”

>>3287719
>“I am, too. Come on, we’ll go get her. Shouldn’t take too long...”

>>3287719
> “It can wait. We’re going up north; get her transferred later.”

Wonder if she still thinks on betraying us for the giant spiders. After all we did see her doing some king of typing in the air...maybe our new Veilspeaker friends would be able to notice what she is doing.

>>3287743
I guess it could also be that...now that she saw that we took Dulwark she wants to keep herself usefull so we don't decide to just kill her.

>>3287719
“I am, too,” you admit. Braun huffs, mussing up your hair a bit, but you ignore it. “Come on, we’ll go get her. Shouldn’t take too long...”

“Do not be fooled by any of her tricks,” Braun warns roughly. “If she seeks to manipulate you, put her down. A charade is all this may be.”

“Entirely possible,” you admit, “And if it comes to that then that’ll happen, but for now, we’ll be checking it out. Don’t worry,” you assure. “We’ll be back in...I dunno, some hours?” You look to Izumi, who shrugs as well. “By tomorrow, at the very least.”

“Mm. Very well, then.” Braun nods, and the two of you take one last check around the area, before bounding off, your first leap taking you clear beyond the treeline-

*splut*

“Fuck!” ...damnit, you’d been on solid ground for so long you forgot that the surrounding area was less...walkable.

Izumi sighs, her feet fully entombed in the muck as well. “I blame you for this, somehow.”

“Shut it.” Damnit, you’ve got to figure something out for this kinda traversal- maybe some kinda magi-boots or something. Lorelei can do that featherfall trick of hers...

>Roll 2d100, best of three!

Rolled 51, 37 = 88 (2d100)

>>3287821

Rolled 81, 14 = 95 (2d100)

>>3287821
the hardest part will be getting a barrier attached to our shoes, if we go for that method.

Rolled 95, 63 = 158 (2d100)

>>3287821

Rolled 67, 47 = 114 (2d100)

>>3287821

>>3287839
Well look at that.

>>3287821
Can't Miranda just use her wings and fly?

>>3287866
we can't really fly with them, and we'd also have to carry Izumi with us.

Hmhm. Writing.

>>3287821
>>3287835
>>3287836
>>3287839
It’s an annoying trek, having to follow the road as best you can- it ultimately causes you both to take longer than you’d hoped, and it’s the middle of the evening by the time you arrive. Dulwark is...recovering, clearly. Most merchants aren’t back out and about yet, although fair enough- there’s little room to trade for their business, although you see a few brave souls out and about talking to the detachment of soldiers left, even a couple of wagons that you can only guess were sent by the King carrying supplies. Civilians are still clearly wary of the whole situation- many walk about in hurried steps, fearful and cautious.

It doesn’t take you very long to find the bear detachment, and they’re quick to point you to where Lady Zatzil is being held- there’s a small building used to detain criminals, and naturally she’s being held up in there, a stone-made prison and entrapped by good old classic iron bars. You’re also pretty sure that same bear is there, although he looks at you with a bit of surprise and...concern? Well, whatever. Right now, the purpose of your visit is grinning at you a bit too eagerly. “Ah, excellent. I see you got my missive. Do sit down, you’ll want to hear this.”

Bah. Not in the mood to for the theatrics. “How about you just tell us?”

“Gah, and here I thought you enjoyed the occasional dramatic flourish. Very welllll,” she sighs. “First, I must applaud you for having your own little attempts at playing the Great Web. Amateurish, but with potential.”

“Beg pardon?” Izumi asks sharply.

“Your little agent! No wonder you were so willing to acquiesce to my bargain- I just helped that little situation along, hm? He managed to infiltrate your paltry defenses last night- on behalf of none other than Ferrah, no less. Seems someone thinks highly of me enough to consider the fact that there was no body or body part to retrieve a warning. He was to check to see if I’d taken up with the humans, and ‘end me for my insolence’.

Very curious. “And yet you’re still here. So how’d you manage that?”

“Why, I informed him about you- and the bargain that we’d made, of course. You know- the plot to have you two allow me to feed the humans false information in exchange for quite the sum of gold from my personal coffers, and making myself Mistress in due time.” Her grin makes it clear how she feels about THAT line. “It took offering him a sizeable share of it as well as offering him a title of Sirre to convince him to not follow through with his order, but we were able to find a fallen clanmember, and roasted part of her body enough to be convincing. He is wholly under our thumb now.”

> “Huh. Clever. Have to admit, that could make things easier on us.”
> “Wait, ‘we’? What, did the guard let you out to find a corpse?”
> “I don’t think that was a great idea. Do you really think he won’t try a triple cross?”
> Other

>>3288007
> “Huh. Clever. Have to admit, that could make things easier on us.”
> “Wait, ‘we’? What, did the guard let you out to find a corpse?”

>>3288007
> “Huh. Clever. Have to admit, that could make things easier on us.”
> “Wait, ‘we’? What, did the guard let you out to find a corpse?”

>>3288007
> “Huh. Clever. Have to admit, that could make things easier on us.”
> “Wait, ‘we’? What, did the guard let you out to find a corpse?”
> "Did he mention anything about meeting us before?"

Think I'm going to pause here for tonight. Tomorrow will be a fuller run.

>>3288007
>> “Wait, ‘we’? What, did the guard let you out to find a corpse?”

> You know- the plot to have you two allow me to feed the humans false information in exchange for quite the sum of gold from my personal coffers, and making myself Mistress in due time.”
There's no way she actually believes that. The guard is *right there*.

>>3288007
> “Huh. Clever. Have to admit, that could make things easier on us.”

> “Wait, ‘we’? What, did the guard let you out to find a corpse?”

>>3288052
Shhhh let her think whatever she wants.

Glad to hear that the spider-taur that we spared is now working as a double agent.

You know, I've been thinking - maybe we should give those Gauntlets to Izumi. Their ability to restore stuff doesn't fit what Miranda usually does on her jobs, and additional options provided by it might either make us lose focus on the primary mission or simply go over our heads:
>One particular storefront seems to have been more totaled than others, the older looking Lizardkin openly weeping over his lost building- a small hut who’s goods you can’t see from here, due to being buried under rubble.
>A young, male Lizardkin with a bandaged stump of a leg and tail is seated near a pile of rock and stone, holding himself up on a wooden stick and looking like he’s angry at the world.
Maybe anons missed these opportunites because we haven't got used to the thought of using these gauntlets for purposes other than combat, but I think that a number of anons also consider these options not befitting how they see Miranda's character. And on the other hand, that's how Izumi totally would use them - fixing broken stuff and attempting to regrow lost limbs. Since she's Miranda's peer, I doubt that she would waste her mana to exerting levels, and she's the only other member of SES that has big enough manapool and manacost efficency to use that ability without taxing herself. Though I know that just handing them over seems like a waste, that way we could suggest her to stop turning down her rewards/being less selfless and valuing her efforts more, or at least as a bargaining chip in an argument if one comes up.

>>3288378
Although that's only what I'm thinking. Can't argue with points like branching out Miranda's toolset or having more Stat Modifying items.
Plus, the last sentence sounds like an offer from a demon - gifting a magical item that could be used to do so much good with it, but slowly turning the user more jaded over time from the influence of this powerful ability.

Miranda's emergency healing is really slow for her line of work. The gauntlets' are definitely faster, more potent and can regrow lost limps to boot. Keeping it will help out a lot, even more so if they work on herself, unlike Crazy Diamond.

>>3288007
>> “Wait, ‘we’? What, did the guard let you out to find a corpse?”
>> “I don’t think that was a great idea. Do you really think he won’t try a triple cross?”

>>3288565
Don’t forget, they also work on broken objects and buildings, not just people.

>>3288384
I would rather keep the gloves for a emergency. But people either forget aboit the gaunlet or are to afraid of the mana cost to use it.

I know that next time that we see someone crying over something broken we will definetly fix it..in exchange for something of course.

>>3288007
>>3288017
>>3288025
>>3288026
>>3288052
>>3288065

Well, as much as you want to say something to that, you have to admit that the core idea is a good one. “Huh. Clever. Have to admit, that could make things easier on us. If he thinks there’s something major in it for him, he’ll likely play ball with us a lot easier. Speaking of, he mentioned meeting us, apparently?” You figure that was the case, otherwise she wouldn’t have called him your ‘little agent’.

She nods in confirmation. “Oh yes; when I mentioned your looks and skills, he was quite surprised. Shared his own little story and said that he figured you might well have had some plan in mind when you let him go. Now it’s clear that perhaps you did. He’ll be around in due time, although we plan to keep communication...sparse.”

“Fair enough.” You’ll have to make sure she’s not doing anything on the side with him, considering her nature, but for now, being able to bribe him when he came to kill her? That was- “Wait a sec.” Something clicks in her tale. “‘We’?” You fix her with a critical eye. “What, did you just ask the guard to let you out to find a corpse?”

“Oh, now, don’t be so rude- Ghire here was VERY accomodating once I explained the situation quietly.” She turns to the bearkin in question, daintly waving her fingers. “And really, thank you ever so much for that! You really were a big help!”

The bear in question frowns, embarrassment playing over his features as he turns away slightly. Zatzil just chuckles. “He’s a big softy, really. Simply adorable. And fuzzy. But with him guarding me, we’ll be able to get information in and out as we please.”

Izumi seems baffled, lips parting slightly. You…

> “No comment. Hylinde, we’re out.” You’d rather not mess with that, in any particular shape or form.
> “Well...you just better stay out of trouble. We’re moving to Dartmouth soon. You’ll be there with us.”
> “You DO realize I’m going to have to inform Braun about this, right?” That’s a MASSIVE risk in operational security.
> Other

>>3290410
Dropped my trip.

>>3290410
> “Well...you just better stay out of trouble. We’re moving to Dartmouth soon. You’ll be there with us.”

>Other: "Well Izumi it seems your proposal to the Sisters is already working by itself."

Wait a tic...a bearkin and a spuder lady?!! Now that is a strange couple.

File: 492.jpg (229 KB, 728x1095)

229 KB JPG

>>3290416
Is pic related the bearkin fetish?

>>3290410
>> “Well...you just better stay out of trouble. We’re moving to Dartmouth soon. You’ll be there with us.”
She's already subvertered her guard and an enemy infiltrator. She's too dangerous to leave alone.

Why are we keeping her alive again?

>>3290410
> “Well...you just better stay out of trouble. We’re moving to Dartmouth soon. You’ll be there with us.”
>Inform the bearkin and the prince about this "breach" in security alone. It can be used to our favor later on.

>>3290443
Because it's easy to get informarion if she is alive and she easily managed to get someone as a double agent for us. Now we cna just install Zat as the head spider and have her change the habits of the Blackweb. Just the way Izumi asked.

>>3290444
Ah good old paranoia.

>>3290410
>> “No comment. Hylinde, we’re out.” You’d rather not mess with that, in any particular shape or form.

>>3290410
>“Well...you just better stay out of trouble. We’re moving to Dartmouth soon. You’ll be there with us.”

Ah and we are also keeping her alive so we can get all the gold she hoarded for herself!!

>>3290410
> “Well...you just better stay out of trouble. We’re moving to Dartmouth soon. You’ll be there with us.”

Think back on how she offered us her body to kill her former underlings...

>>3290476
She is a lewd spider. We have a lewd elf too..does Randa attract that type of people or what?

>>3290448
>to get information if she is alive
She shouldn't have any more info, being locked up and all, and she still hasn't actually told us why we came all this way back.

>she easily managed to get someone as a double agent for us
she got her own agent, who she's using for her own ends, which likely line up with ours for the moment.

>have her change the habits of the Blackweb.
She's working on being installed using the very system she'd "be trying to change". And we're not going to be around to enforce that change; she's not going to respect anyone else and will likely revert to her old ways as soon as we leave.

>She shouldn't have any more info, being locked up and all, and she still hasn't actually told us why we came all this way back.

To twll us about the other spider-taur who is now working for us AND her. That's the reason why she called and now she has a way to get more information.

>she got her own agent, who she's using for her own ends, which likely line up with ours for the moment.

And that is a problem because? She wants to be head spider. The best way to do that is for her to still be a prisioner and let us and the humans kill the other big spider so she can take over. win/win scenario.

>She's working on being installed using the very system she'd "be trying to change". And we're not going to be around to enforce that change; she's not going to respect anyone else and will likely revert to her old ways as soon as we leave.

And since that system allowed her to be in power she will want to change so no one else will try to do the same. Come on anon this is basic politics.

>>3290410
>>3290426
>>3290443
>>3290444
>>3290465
>>3290476
You just sigh. For all that she worries you, so far it seems like her machications are in your favor. No reason to put a damper on them right this second, but you’ll nonetheless have to keep an eye on her somehow. “Well...you just better stay out of trouble. We’re moving to Dartmouth soon. You’ll be there with us.” And keeping her close is one way of doing that.

“Ah, Dartmouth? I’ve been there before. Such a lovely dark place. A bit cramped, perhaps, but the architecture is quite impressive. I’ve knowledge of a few individuals who should be in the area- ah, but they likely think me dead. I’ll have to consider whether it’s a good idea or not to reveal myself…” she murmurs to herself, but grows silent as she begins to consider.

That’s enough to consider the conversation done for now, in your mind, although you’ll certainly be on hand to ‘advise’ whether she should or shouldn’t…

As you leave, the night bearing down fast, you hum to yourself. “Dartmouth is sounding interesting enough.”

“It’s supposed to be where the majority of Ratkin in the country seem to reside, if what I’ve been told is correct,” Izumi explains. “We’re likely to see a lot of why they ended up so rare. In the meantime, however...this time, let’s be wary of the more...swampy areas on the way back, hm?”

> “Actually, if you’re willing to take it a bit slower, there’s this thing I’ve wanted to work on…” (Barrier Manipulation)
> “Right, let’s get going. No distractions.” You need to at least mention this to Braun before the night settles in.
> Other

>>3290570
>“Actually, if you’re willing to take it a bit slower, there’s this thing I’ve wanted to work on…” (Barrier Manipulation)

>>3290570
>“Right, let’s get going. No distractions.” You need to at least mention this to Braun before the night settles in.
Mission comes first.

>>3290570
>> “Actually, if you’re willing to take it a bit slower, there’s this thing I’ve wanted to work on…” (Barrier Manipulation)
Ideally we can get the Barriers to move with our feet, but failing that we can try to make small cheap ones for stepping stones.

>>3290570
>> “Actually, if you’re willing to take it a bit slower, there’s this thing I’ve wanted to work on…” (Barrier Manipulation)

>>3290570
> “Right, let’s get going. No distractions.” You need to at least mention this to Braun before the night settles in.

>>3290570
>> “Actually, if you’re willing to take it a bit slower, there’s this thing I’ve wanted to work on…” (Barrier Manipulation)

>>3290570
> “Actually, if you’re willing to take it a bit slower, there’s this thing I’ve wanted to work on…” (Barrier Manipulation)

Locked, we're practicing. Writing!

>>3290570
Wait, does that mean that Izumi will try working on her barriers too?

>>3290673
Does she even use them?

>>3290706
She uses a named barrier technique ocassionally, yes. What was it called? Started with an R I think?

>>3290706
Well, she has her Rajomon, and the barriers that Miranda often uses are actually downgraded version of her old 'Great Barrier'. So... what's your point?

>>3290771
From Izumi’s technique pastebin:
>Rajomon:
A high magical barrier that can defend against all but the most destructive techniques. Developed independently from Miranda.

>>3290570
>>3290592
>>3290598
>>3290606
>>3290660
>>3290664
Annoying as it might end up, you’re actually grateful for the opportunity. You’ll likely need to test it out further if it works here, but for now, in a relatively harmless environment? “Actually, if you’re willing to take it a bit slower, there’s this thing I’ve wanted to work on…”

“Oh?” She seems curious. “Like that mana rope thing you had me help with earlier?”

You shrug. “Something a bit less difficult…just don’t laugh if I fall.” And with that you leap.

The next couple of hours as the moonlight shines down are you figuring out how best to manipulate your barriers actively- you can place them in various areas, but moving them at will has just...never really been needed for your work. That said, you’re not terribly surprised when you find that moving them, much like manually moving your magiblasts, largely just takes heavier concentration, and in the last half of what you estimate is the first hour or so, you can both spin and move a light barrier in 3d space easily enough. To your relief, it doesn’t seem like it takes that much more mental energy to move a bigger barrier, although there’s definitely something there.

“I can already see the many ways you’ll be abusing this,” Izumi comments wryly. “Although I’m surprised you never mentioned it earlier. It’s the basic idea for my weapons shaping, really.” Oh? Hm...yeah, you suppose that makes sense. “That said, if you want to see about using them more creatively...here, try to take a look at what I’m doing…” She makes a simple bladeform over her wrist- nothing special, more a triangular piece of hardened mana. “It’s like emanating it, but keeping it contained at the same time…”

“Interesting,” you admit as you study her work. “Maybe I can mix that with something I’ve been doing recently, too…”

It’s rough going, several hours, and you end up with more than a few splashes of gunk on your lower body, but by the time you’re back in the Lizard city (well after midnight, you’re sure) you think you’ve got a decent idea for mana ‘snow shoes’ of a sort. You at least don’t seem to sink when you pop them over your feet, but you’re not sure if they’ll pass muster on anything that’s more than smelly and soft. You’ll need to get a bit more specific in terms of environments for that…but, if nothing else, it’s also helped you figure out how to shrink your barriers to something more form fitting as well.

(cont.)

Ding.

>It’s rough going, several hours, and you end up with more than a few splashes of gunk on your lower body,

Lewd...

>>3290832
>Learned Barrier Manipulation (Basic)! Miranda can move Light and Great Barriers fairly freely now in a 3D space at will. She can also shape them simply for more personal effects...

>Learned Body Shield! Miranda can specifically reinforce part of her body (Head, Arms, Torso, Legs) with mana for less cost than a Light Barrier- but at the cost of durability.
>Cost: 250 Mana

>Learned Mana Step! Miranda can cover her feet with a layer of specially treated mana in order to prevent her feet from being at risk to elements that risk her injury or debilitation, such as swampland, corrosive liquids, lava, or other such dangers. It taxes her to maintain it under those adverse conditions, however...
>Cost: 250 Mana (+150 per post it’s not deactivated)

>Current Mana: 10,000/12,500

With everyone asleep and all, there’s little reason to stay up. With assurances from the night guards, you and Izumi return to your quarters to rest.

When you wake up in the morning, however, there’s a lot of bustle. Many guards are running around the castle- not panicked, but rather jogging like something important’s going on. Well, other than you all about to leave.

You meet with Izumi shortly after you step outside the courtyard; she seems rested enough, and clearly woke up before you. “Well, today’s it, hm? We move out shortly. Caught the prince on my way, he said he estimates it won’t be long- before the sun gets past the treeline, was his quote.”

“Yup.” If there was anything else you wanted to do here, now would probably be your last chance.

>Anything left you want to do?

Nice, Barrier Armor. Another one that is to my liking.

>>3290859
>Talk to the prince about Carrang

>>3290859
>Check the potion shop or see if that old luzard house is still there all destroyed. Maybe he will give us whatever is inside it

>>3290859
Oh wow, that was definitely worth taking a little longer. And those costs are fantastic.

>?
I'd like to go by that potioner's shop if he's still around. And we ought to mention our captive spider is spinning webs rather effectively from the inside of a prison cell, which is alarming. Otherwise I think we're good.

>>3290859
>Start researching rituals together with Izumi while they are still relevant and we are high on this 'self-improvent' thing.

>>3290859
>Talk to the prince about Carrang

>>3290859
Check out the potion shop

Potions, then. Maybe asking about the dark elf later.

Writing!

>inb4 the dark elf also seduced the prince

I mean she is kinky and the prince was giving curious eyes toward Randa when she got here so...

>>3290859
>>3290892
>>3290893
>>3290963
“Well, I remember seeing a potions shop, we can see what’s what there if you want,” you offer.

“Hm. Perhaps. I’ve some money from my earlier assistance I can spend, I suppose,” she decides. “Lead the way.”

The potions seller, as it stands, isn’t what you’re used to- although close enough. “Many concoctions I have!” the crone says eagerly. “For sleep, for health, for dangerous things...yes, like you! Though you saved Gri-mal’s place from destruction- she remembers you!” She cackles, pointing at the two of you accusingly. “Remembers you both! Very strong, you are. Don’t need this one,” she says idly, shoving a yellow jar of something to the back of her haphazard cluster on the table she led you to. Instead, she picks up a blue one. “Still fresh, for quick sleep! Put it on your weapon, then your opponents fall so easily! Or perhaps trying to be careful, hm? Ah, or this!” Putting the blue one down, she picks up a green one. “Blessed by Bearkin friends earlier- drink it and health abounds! Very good for you both, will let you have one free since you saved me. Very important.”

Hm. You can see that she has far more than just the ones she showed you, all of them unique colors. There’s a red one near the back of her table, several purple ones, a pink one, a orange one, an off-white one…

“Most of these for normal people,” she explains. “Not warriors. Red one is for calming down, make you feel nice, not angry. Pink one is for mothers to be. Orange is for if you need stomach cleansing. White one is to help builders, more energy. Not great for health, I think.”

“What about the pink one?” Izumi asks.

“For mates that really really want babies. Veeery popular,” she grins.

>Take the blue sleeping potion.
>Take the green potion.
>Ask about the yellow potion. She skipped it.
>Other

>>3291143
(That first 'pink' is supposed to be 'purple', sorry.)

>>3291143
>Take the green potion.

Take a purple potion too.

>>3291143
>Ask about the yellow potion. She skipped it.

>>3291147
Izumi gonna blue screen by the end of this mission i tell you.

>>3291143
>>Take the blue sleeping potion.
having a non-lethal option would be nice.

>>3291143
>Green potion

>>3291143
>>Take the green potion.

Green is what is be.

>>3291143
>>Take the green potion.

>>3291143
>>3291170
>>3291199
>>3291248
>>3291292
“We’ll just take the green one,” you decide. Never a reason not to have health potions. Izumi agrees, and hands over a trio of coins after she names her price. True to her word, she plucks two jars of the stuff out and hands them over. “Very good, very good! Remember to drink deeply of them- will keep you very healthy if hurt bad. Be safe!”

“You as well,” Izumi offers, and then you both leave out, taking a look at the goods as you step. “These are actually rather big,” she notes.

“Yeah, usually they’re smaller than this. Wonder just how potent these things are,” you muse.

She shrugs as she places it in her satchel. “Well, we may find out in due time. We should probably get around to the Prince now…”

“Yeah, fair enough. Had something I wanted to talk to him about anyway,” you decide as you pocket your own.

The Prince is near the center of the city, as it happens- just in front of the High Judicator’s halls and near the palace proper. He’s busy directing traffic, it seems; along with the generals and captains, making sure that everyone is accounted for and ready to move. Humans, bears, rabbits, lizards, spiders…quite the crew being built up.

He notices you in between bouts of talking things over with Za-Leil and Thorumin. “Ah, ready to go, are you? I’m told that our forces are to be set in short order. I’ve given the command to proceed northwards as soon as they are.”

“Fine with us. But I wanted to talk to you a bit.” That gets the attention of the other two, looking on in curiosity.

“Mh? What’s on your mind?” he asks easily.

> What to bring up, specifically?

>>3291445
I wanted to talk to you about Carrang and why she's riding with us.

>>3291445
>?
I dunno what anons wanted to mention about Carrang, but we ought to mention our captive spider is spinning webs rather effectively from the inside of a prison cell, which is alarming.

>>3291445
>I wanted to talk to you about Zatzil and her message.

>>3291445
Since we'll be scouting ahead again -
maps of the area, info on locals and estimated enemy forces, pretty please!

>>3291445


Supporting: >>3291475

Gonna call it done here for tonight. Will resume tomorrow.

Also, it's simpler, but I'm liking the new moveset learning. It's more in line with what I was expecting initially anyway in terms of learning rate. Also, it's obvious I think, but the moves with (Basic) next to them mean they can be improved, which can lead to even more skills, so look for more moments to practice them!

>>3291531
Night, boss! Same time tomorrow?

>>3291531
I find it funny that Miranda's finally getting off her arse to level up after being slapped in the face by the realization of having lost dozens of years worth of motes simply because she didn't bother to ask about Outgoer's privileges. The kids did contribute some to her current drive too I guess.

>>3291633
Aye.

>>3291646
That bit was hilarious and honestly I'm still kinda laughing about it whenever it's brought up.

>>3291460
You know, it was only a coincidence that she's been found out by a drider scout we've met and spared early on and not some zealous supporter of Mistress Zai - otherwise we'd have certainly lost the way to find her hoard and the option of removing Blackwebs from the conflict by means other than genocide. That would mean that our MG duo had to do more work and do it for free - originally our job was to defeat Lord Kholm, and if the Blackweb bailed from their alliance with him - then we woudn't have to do anything about them. But now that Veilspeakers are part of our client's Alliance we have to deal with their conditions concerning their nemesis-clan, otherwise our payment might get tanked. So I hope you were not planning to suggest that we should get rid of Zatzil out of paranoia right when Handler throws us a bone.

>>3291955
I'm worried about the maliability of her loyalty, and that she's only doing what we say because we're a direct threat to her ability to keep breathing. As soon as she has a reasonable chance of getting out from under our thumb and a poor chance of us hunting her back down, she had absolutely no reason not to flip back the Blackweb, doubly so with her personality.
And there no way the Veils will be ok with us installing another Blackweb as us "fixing" them like they want, especially a "reformed" one that acts the same as the rest. They'll want a spider from a different clan, or someone from a non-sneaky race. Us tossing a Blackweb we found onto the throne just reeks of "minimum effort".

>>3292091
The Veilspeakers did not shut down the idea of 'reforming' the Blackweb, and I doubt that Weave's clan system allows outsiders to take roles. In fact, Veil sisters were okay with fracturing Blackwebs into factions weak enough for them to deal with one by one even when we leave, regardless if they reformed or not.
Also maybe I might be looking too much into it or maybe I am a bit naive, but people don't go on the 'name basis' so openly in circumstances like this.

>>3292192
*To take roles of leadership.
And why are you so sure that we can't shift their current views on their philosophy?

>>3291445
I would be socked if the green potion is NOT just a god damn 2L herbal immune booster remedy. Given that this world is all about ritual magic and so far pretty lean on the flashy magic items. Bear claws excluded.

>>3292192
Fracturing the clan and "reforming" it are completely different things. A fractured clan has little power, and can be further taken apart and eliminated. A "reformed" clan would retain much of its power, and would be a serious wildcard.

Maybe, in time we could convince them to change their ways, but I doubt it. Their whole society is built on politicking and backstabbing. It'd only take one of them returning to the old ways to wreck things again. If you really wanted to fix them, you'd take the children and educate them with proper morals, and return them when all the old Blackwebs died out.
Of course, that has its own ethical issues, and is much more time consuming and expensive than just killing them all like was originally wanted, and is much more in line with Miranda's usual mode of operation. Remember, this is in support of gaining allied support. It's a pointless risk form Miranda's merc perspective to risk better allied support in the vague hope she could get a non-violent way to work.
>inb4 Izumi
Izumi prefers the peaceful way, but she's been doing this almost as long as randa, and Blackweb are actively hostile. Plus, us doing all the "friendly" options for her sake comes off as patronizing to me.


I think we might want to take Lori for a spin next mission. Some anons here seem to really want to make randa do diplomacy, which while she can do it, she isn't well suited for it and doesn't like doing it.

>>3292313
Fracturing and reforming are two different and separate things but that doesn't mean options of going for them cancel each other out though. Blackweb's philosophy of itself would help with fracturing them once we deal with Zai and her supporters, and Zatzil's faction is not a player in it yet - most of driders under her command were slaughtered during their attack on Bearkin, and only people who has at least something resembling of loyalty are the guy who drove a hard fucking bargain for it and maybe that fuzzy wuzzy guard. Since they respect strength and ambition and she obviously owes us her life, idea of shifting their philosophy and relationship with other clans at least from 'hostile' to 'competetive' is not that far fetched, unlike openly embracing xenophilia.

>>3292313
>inb4 Izumi
I know what I said earlier about gauntlets, but I don't think that we're patronizing her yet - half of the options where we could've aided her were turned down, our attitude is clearly not one of a do-gooder, in combat Miranda and Izumi are fighting separatedly, and she's a good girl for helping us with training our techniques.

You know what, I'm just satisfied that miranda is getting improvements here and there. Hopefully we dont forget about that emergency potion later on.

Why do people assume she will backstab the alliance once we are out? And even if she does so. Why would we ever admit to her we are unable to return? Just tell her to follow the laws we install to the clan (courtsey of Izumi) and tell her is she doesn't we are returning to kill her simple.

>>3293547
We don't care if she turns after we leave, but resolving the Blackweb issue must be done in a way that our allies are good with, meaning at least they have to think it'll work. Unless they're really gullible, they're not going to think sticking a lightly controlled puppet in charge of a reformation process is going to work.

>>3294170
And why do you think it wouldn't work? After all once all the head spiders and their allies/servants. Are all dead there will only be Zat at the top.

>>3292313
>I think we might want to take Lori for a spin next mission

Nah next mission is Mono and Prima and Jago. I'll fight you for it

>>3291445
>>3291454
>>3291460
>>3291470
>>3291475
>>3291496
“Well, a couple of things. I’ve noticed that we’re still hauling Carrang along. I have to admit, I’m not certain why.” Getting some information from her was one thing- there was a reason Zatzil was still alive, after all- but she seemed like she wasn’t all that in the know about any major operations. It seemed too risky, to you.

The Prince sighs in understanding, nodding. “A fair question. I suppose part of it is due to her docility- I’m not certain why, exactly, but I wonder if perhaps we can do something to provide them satisfaction that will allow them to retain their mentality. She’s far more lucid than others we’ve faced. She may be...not redeemable, perhaps, but directable.”

You’re...not exactly brimming with confidence at this. But you’re not sure if you should mention it. That said, though… “Speaking of directable, I should let you know about the Weaver we had captured. She had a message and an update for us.” You quickly let him know what she told you, much to both the Prince’s and everyone else’s surprise.

“She no doubt plans something nefarious. We should be certain to keep a close eye on her,” Thorumin says primly.

“She’ll already be on the way to Dartmouth,” Braun says, clearly growling and unhappy. “After your delay last night, I’d sent a message to be wary about her, and to move her so as to not permit her a stable position just in case she was feeding information somehow. I will have to send another, however, to remove the guard from his post. We shall judge him for his treasonous actions.”

“Well, now, I don’t think I’d call it entirely treasonous...” Izumi ventures, although she’s not sure how to continue after that, especially after meeting his eye.

“We’ll discuss things further on the road,” the Prince quickly interjects. “For now, we march on Dartmouth! Come!” Braun growls, but nods, as do the rest of the leaders, and so you set off, yet again. By your reckoning, it should take you 2 or 3 days…

>Roll 3d100, best of three.

Rolled 97, 23, 35 = 155 (3d100)

>>3295218

Rolled 76, 20, 79 = 175 (3d100)

>>3295218
Definitely treasonous.

>>3295218
We don't need a map this time?

Rolled 21, 55, 16 = 92 (3d100)

>>3295218

>>3295218
>>3295233
No, you'll get one. This is just for something in between.

Writing!

>>3295247
Ambush? I love ambush it allow us to get more minions.

File: Dartmouth Mapped.png (990 KB, 3138x2289)

990 KB PNG

>>3295218
>>3295224
>>3295229
>>3295235
The first day seems fairly well, all things considered; there’s little delay, and whatever scared off the shadows seems to have stretched to this point of the land as well; there’s little cover once you get out of the damp swamplands, and the refreshing air does good for everyone’s spirits, it seems; save for the Lizardkin, of course. The forest is light, but present, and with your new Weaver division, it seems as though there’s an air of real belief that things can be turned around now. It’s also thanks to them that it’s quickly divined that rain will be coming in the next day; the pace is adjusted just so, and everyone has their meals earlier than normal so as to prevent them being caught by surprise.

The next day indeed brings rain as foretold; although not an utter downpour, it’s bad enough that the Prince is glad for the foresight already, as he doesn’t want to risk any of the wagons getting caught in mud. No, with everyone safely covered prior, the day is one of relative laxness, although only in terms of physical strain. Rather, those higher in command have taken the opportunity to plan deeper- which you and Izumi have been, of course, allowed to be privy to, sitting in a massive tent with the leaders.

“Dartmouth is an unusual city. Really more of a city-state,” the Prince explains. “Although in our lands, Dartmouth’s...tenants...tend to keep to themselves, and answer largely to their own rulership. We permit it largely because they do at least see reason enough in paying tithes of both men and coin, and they keep any conflict within their own borders. However, that aside? Their city’s layout can be confusing.”

“Intentionally so,” Braun says tiredly. “The roads confuse and beguile any intruders who haven’t seen fit to study them properly beforehand. Hence this little session of ours.”

“Must admit, have never been,” Za-Leil says. “Sounds...worrisome.”

“Indeed; the architecture is as dangerous as anything else, as well,” the Prince claims. They build houses atop houses, gutters that seem to go nowhere...it’s all a massive maze. That said, there have been some bold souls that have attempted to map the area.” At this, he places down a map in the middle of you all. “However, by all rights this tells little of the truth depths and heights of their work.”

(cont.)

>>3295329
As you look at the map, with it’s notations, you ask the immediate obvious question. “Why the question marks in the center?”

“Because we precisely don’t know what goes on in those buildings,” the Prince says. “At most, we figure they are the location of the major administrative functions, but I’ve a funny feeling that that may not be the case. Seems a bit too...obvious.”

Izumi mulls over the map herself, no doubt committing it to memory. “This place seems complicated. Do you have a particular plan of approach, then?”

“It will depend on scouting maneuvers, but I anticipate our approach to be best done through the south, which we come upon naturally. Dartmouth is, sadly, too big to take the same approach to as we did Dulwark for fear of being split up and picked off, so for now I believe the best plan is to hold back the majority of our forces until we have a solid area to breach from, then we can get inside and attack in earnest and push them out in one massive wave of action. Your flight and speed will be of immense use to us in this battle.”

“Risky...but understandable,” Za-Leil admits. “I will support this. We will remain on defensive duties until the path is clearer.”

“I think we might be able to soften them up a touch, first,” Thorumin says briskly. “My cannon should be able to smash a hole right into one of those walls, and allow our forces to move swiftly.”

“You’ll need backup,” Braun mentions. “My people will be the vanguard, then. We approach shaped like flower petals; forward, around, and back to be certain, until the entire city is back under control. Your speed should expedite the maneuver.”

“Sporting of you!” Thorumin thanks, before turning to you and Izumi. “But what of the lasses?”

Good question. What WILL you do?

>We’ll also remain on defense. If the the city’s layout is a threat itself, then we need to stay cautious. We’ll let them come to us.
>We’ll remain on overwatch for this one- we’ll take a high position on the walls and come to anyone that looks like they need it.
>We’ll go in as usual and hit them hard enough to look at us before they look at you all. Just make sure you take advantage.
>Other

>>3295333
>>We’ll go in as usual and hit them hard enough to look at us before they look at you all. Just make sure you take advantage.
The triple threes demand it.

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>>3295333
>>We’ll go in as usual and hit them hard enough to look at us before they look at you all. Just make sure you take advantage.
Overwatch isn't a bad idea, but if the city is that much of a mess, we may have trouble getting in and out as needed. 3D mazes are a pain to navigate

>>3295333

>We’ll remain on overwatch for this one- we’ll take a high position on the walls and come to anyone that looks like they need it.
I'm under impression that the defenders also don't understand the lay of the town since it's not actually their home turf, and if we get too deep we may get bogged down in mooks and unable to assist in crucial moment.

>>3295350
Gonna be honest, that pic was an inspiration. Maybe not exactly like that, but this IS one of the Ratkin's major cities.

Business as usual for now, then. Writing.

>>3295333
>We’ll remain on overwatch for this one- we’ll take a high position on the walls and come to anyone that looks like they need it.

i would rather support our troops as they advance making sure we can hit highly defensive points. We could easily get lost on the scuffle and with us not knowing the layout we can either be ambushed or bump into a enemy strong point.

Rwmember they habe ritual magic here nothing is asured that they don't have a type of explosion rune or something to lay traps.

>>3295409
Dammit i'm late. Maybe that's for the better. Not like we can't just smash some walls and use our gaulets to fix stuff later.

>>3295333
>>3295346
>>3295350
“We’ll go in as usual and work as the distraction,” you decide. “It’ll make it easier for you all to point out what’s where, and keep the heat off you.” Honestly, you’re a bit concerned about this- it sounds like you’re going to practically be dealing with the medieval version of a skyscraper city, and if that’s the case, that’s a LOT of potential ambush and trap spots you could run into. Izumi seems similarly disgruntled, but doesn’t debate the issue. “Just so long as you take advantage. I don’t think this’ll be quick.”

“It won’t,” Braun says with a resigned confidence. “It will be slow, and tedious. However, if we can get the Rats there free…”

“It’ll likely greatly expedite the matter,” Thorumin finishes. “We’ll have to get on that as soon as we can, then. I’ll assign a few regiments over the next day to prioritize search and rescue. I think my forces will prove quite capable of such.”

“Agreed,” Za-Leil nods in agreement as well. “We need to be both cautious and quick; we cannot be caught unawares.”

The Prince nods in agreement, thinking the situation over. “We’ll likely have to ask the Veilspeakers if there’s any insight that can be afforded to this; I think such an issue as this would be worth their while. Don’t know if it can be done today, though…”

“Worth asking,” Braun says mildly. “At any rate, further planning is useless until we receive more information.”

“Sadly. Ideally, should Dartmouth be retaken, we can then move further northwest, begin making the circle around the mountains and getting into Kolm’s territories eventually. There’s still a few more important cities we need to retake, but we’ve already made excellent headway, I think. Now, if there aren’t any more questions, I think we can call this meeting adjourned…”

>Actually, you do have one or two more things to ask… (What?)
>Might as well see how the rest of the rabbits are doing. Most of them, including Frederique, were somewhat grumbly...
>The Lizards seem more than fine with the rain. You think a few of them were even training.
>You might not be as harried by the rain, but you still aren’t a fan of it. You might just let this day pass…(Skip to right before final approach)
>Other

>>3295560
>>Might as well see how the rest of the rabbits are doing. Most of them, including Frederique, were somewhat grumbly...

>>3295560
>>Might as well see how the rest of the rabbits are doing. Most of them, including Frederique, were somewhat grumbly...

>>3295560
>Might as well see how the rest of the rabbits are doing. Most of them, including Frederique, were somewhat grumbly...

Writing, might be the last for tonight.

>>3295560
>>3295562
>>3295573
>>3295587

Might as well see how the rest of the rabbits are doing. Last you noticed, most of them, including Frederique, were somewhat grumbly. Maybe they just weren’t big fans of the rain.

As you wind up walking back with Thorumin, you voice this supposition, to which he barks a laugh. “Ha! Correct in one, miss. I suppose with us preferring underground living quarters, rain tends to concern us more than some others- even aside from flooding issues, there’s the occasional issue of tunnels collapsing due to the earth shifting, or some such.”

“Makes sense enough,” you decide.

“And what of you?” he asks. “I must admit, I’m not entirely clear on your area of origin, but you strike me as decently accepting of it all.”

You shrug. “I am. I’ve had to fight a lot in the rain. I’m just used to it.”

“Ah. If I might ask, perhaps…” and here Thorumin looks a bit gunshy. “You may have forgotten such a face, but you wouldn’t have happened to come across a particular individual when you went to parlay with the Veilspeakers, did you? Female, looks somewhat similar to me, dark patch over one eye, spectacles, terribly anxious but determined sort?”

“I did,” you confirm.

“Ah, right. That was my daughter, you see. Wonderful engineer, she is. Helped design and construct the cannon! A bit headstrong, however; convinced she can solve the world’s problems herself. No doubt she asked you or the Prince to allow her leave; rather, I’m just wanting to know if she’s well.” He briefly glances to the side, as though looking out for any eavesdroppers. “Despite her calm facade, when something is denied her, she can achieve a rather incredible state of...well, self-duplicity.”

> “She seemed a bit disappointed, but otherwise fine.”
> “She struck me as a bit too accepting when I put my foot down.”
> “She’s not getting out of there without someone waiting on her at the entrance, don’t worry.”
> Other

>>3295825
> “She struck me as a bit too accepting when I put my foot down.”

>>3295825
> “She struck me as a bit too accepting when I put my foot down.”
> "I've had bad experiences trying to explain technical and engineering concepts to people who primarily think based on faith. Didn't want to risk offense with the Veilspeakers."

>>3295825
>> “She seemed a bit disappointed, but otherwise fine.”
Pretty self explanatory.

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60 KB JPG

>>3295849
>>3295854
So, hwere did 'nr7U2PxP' go?

>>3295849
What? The veils work on Magic, not faith, and that's a stupid thing to say anyway.

>>3295825
> “She struck me as a bit too accepting when I put my foot down.”

>>3295976
One, I'm not talking about divine magic, I'm talking about the Veilspeaker belief system about using rituals as a form of warship to their original ancestors.

Second, I don't think that talking to people about how their belief system is holding them back is going to end positively, which would have been the gist of what the rabbitgirl was going to say.

>>3296093
>people about how their belief system is holding them back is going to end positively, which would have been the gist of what the rabbitgirl was going to say.
One, that's not what that says. That says "religious people don't like science". There's no reason to think their ancestor worship has any effect on their ability to understand engineering concepts.

Second, why would she have been saying anything about that? What would convincing them their religion is holding them back do or change for her?

3rd, her reasons for wanting to talk to them were irrelevant. We were exclusively invited, and bringing a tagalong that had tried and failed to gain her own audience would be presumptuous at best. That's why we didn't bring her. It had nothing to do with whatever she wanted to say.

>>3295825
>“She struck me as a bit too accepting when I put my foot down.”
>"Do you think she'll do something...brash?"

I'm pretty sure I screwed up the schedule I said last thread already. Too used to running over the weekend. If there's anyone here I might try a short run, but I'm tired enough that I'm not sure. I WANT to, but at the same time I don't, y'know?

>>3301002
I'm around, but if you don't want to write it'll show in your writing. Don't push yourself if you're not feeling it right now.

>>3301002
Just do something else in the mean time. It's not like we're going anywhere.

(Elsewhere...)

> "Alrighty! Sooo, we gotcher license, you're understanding motes a ton better, you just need a wardrobe and you guys are all set for Outgoing!"

> "Thank you, Miss Lorelei! We really appreciate it!"

> "Yeah, good on ya. Don't think they got mah best side, though..."

> "Yeeeah, they can be hit or miss, don't worry about it. So, any ideas for your first gig?"

> "Well, not in particular, miss...although perhaps-"

> "Lemme stoooooop you right there."

> "OH FU- Sal, come on! Why do you DO that?!"

> "Because the face you make is hilaaaaarious! Now then, if you three would do me a kiiiiindness? Dooooooon't start making any plans until your Division Leader and second get back, hmmmm?"

> "Huh? I mean, sure, but...can we know why?"

> "Allllll in good time, don't worry. In faaaaact, you'll likely appreciate it..."

>>3301281
>you three
>and second
We're looking at a big mission next time, sounds like. I'm eager to finally see the 'bots in action.

>>3301346
Either that, or Sal wants to put on the spot with some Outgoer regs or something, that he knows we don't know, to see Miranda flail around.

After all, he didn't tell her about the Outgoer privileges for 90 years, just to see her face when she realized all the money she wasted because she didn't ask.

Ah, now tonight I'm feeling much better. Writing!

>>3303407
Hooray!

>>3303407
Welcome back!

>>3295825
>>3295840
>>3295849
>>3296079
>>3298121
Thinking about it...well, at the time you were just glad to see her go, and considering the surroundings, you figured it wasn’t anything to worry about. But on further reflection… “She struck me as a bit too accepting when I put my foot down, now that I’m replaying the conversation in my head. Very quick to play herself down and try to pardon her emotions.”

He nods in concern. “Yes...that sounds like her.”

You fix him with a measured look. “You think she’s going to do something brash?” If she’d end up screwing up anything…

“Perhaps,” he admits. “It’s terribly more likely than I’d prefer it to be. She holds a strong amount of sway over many individuals back in the- well, they’re not our warrens anymore…” There’s a moment where he looks despondent; however, he shakes it, as well as the rain, off with a strong shake of his head as you approach the tent. “Point being, she CAN cut quite the charismatic figure when needs must.” That explains her retinue being as large as it was, perhaps… “I simply worry that she’ll make a poor mistake…and pay for it.”

> “There’s no use worrying about things like that now. Keep your mind on the battle ahead, and maybe we can make it so that she doesn’t have a war to join.”
> “She didn’t seem quite so foolish, to me...if she was able to recognize my refusal for what it was, she’ll know not to get in over her head.”
> Say nothing. If she gets hurt or dies...well, you’re not getting paid for keeping her safe specifically, now are you?
>Other

>>3303544
>> “There’s no use worrying about things like that now. Keep your mind on the battle ahead, and maybe we can make it so that she doesn’t have a war to join.”
We can't do anything about anything she might or might not do, and we have more pressing matters.

>>3303544
> “She didn’t seem quite so foolish, to me...if she was able to recognize my refusal for what it was, she’ll know not to get in over her head.”

>>3303544
> “There’s no use worrying about things like that now. Keep your mind on the battle ahead, and maybe we can make it so that she doesn’t have a war to join.”

>>3303544
>“She didn’t seem quite so foolish, to me...if she was able to recognize my refusal for what it was, she’ll know not to get in over her head.”

>>3303544
>> “There’s no use worrying about things like that now. Keep your mind on the battle ahead, and maybe we can make it so that she doesn’t have a war to join.”

Writing!

>>3303544
>Say nothing. If she gets hurt or dies...well, you’re not getting paid for keeping her safe specifically, now are you?
>Other: if she fucks things up for us, then she's going to be removed as a problem.

>>3303544
>>3303555
>>3303562
>>3303610
You shake your head- you’re not a fan of commanders psyching themselves out before a fight. “There’s no use worrying about things like that now. Keep your mind on the battle ahead, and maybe we can make it so that she doesn’t have a war to join.” You’re not sure if that’ll actually happen- honestly, the more cynical part of you thinks she’ll make a foolhardy charge and get herself killed- but you you don’t need to tell him that. “You should make sure your men are ready after this rain lets up. If I’m remembering right, we’ll be on the city outskirts by tomorrow night.”
“Aye, we should,” he confirms. “Would’ve had a full day to rest had the rain not happened, but we’ll make due.” Opening the flap to his tent, he looks back. “Ah- care to step in out of this?”

You shake your head in refusal. “Appreciate the offer, but I’ll be in my own,” you decide, and he nods primly before bidding you good day and shuttering himself in; there’s a couple other Rabbitkin in with him- makes sense considering the size of the tent.

The rest of the day is quiet; you end up resorting to mental training- although a part of you wants to practice out in the rain, Izumi convinced you that the risk of getting sick, however minute, wasn’t worth it.

The day after, things are pack up, and as expected, you move out again. Thorumin quickly mentions that he wanted to send a spy group up to Dartmouth to check the status of the city- you’re not sure how to feel about it, but the Prince okays it, and so they set off about an hour before you march.

It’s around evening when they return, the trio of rabbits looking...confused, as well as worried, bounding up to Thorumin and snapping off a quick salute as the tall one in the center speaks. “Sir, we’re back to report...well...nothing, sir.”

“Nothing?” Thorumin frowns as the procession comes to a halt. “What do you mean, exactly, nothing?”

“We mean that there seems to be no signs of what you informed us to look out for. No shadows prowling, no yells, no civilians at all. Tis’ a ghost city, sir!”

“What…?” Thorumin seems unnerved, as do the rest of the leaders. “How could there be nothing? Surly some sign of retreat or evacuation, or disorder?”

The rabbit again shakes his head. “None that we could safely determine were true elements of such. Half-eaten pastry on a barstool once, but other than that, it seems that if there was an evacuation, it was rather orderly, sire.”

“And no sign of corruption whatsoever?” Braun asks. “No strange gems or statues, no anything?”

“All empty, sir,” is the assured reply.

Strange...if there was a retreat or evac, that'd be one thing? But as though they were never there? That's...odd, to say the least.

> Hm...there’s got to be something they’re missing. Maybe you should see personally.
> Hold on, you’ve got a question or two yourself. (What?)
> Say nothing. They’ll come up with a plan soon enough.
> Other

>>3303722
> Hm...there’s got to be something they’re missing. Maybe you should see personally.
The nose will know. Turn on our scent perception and sniff 'em out!

>>3303722
>> Hm...there’s got to be something they’re missing. Maybe you should see personally.

>>3303722
>> Hm...there’s got to be something they’re missing. Maybe you should see personally.
If it really is clear it won't cost us anything, but if it's not it'll be worth the trip.

>>3303722
>Hm...there’s got to be something they’re missing. Maybe you should see personally.

>>3303722
>Hm...there’s got to be something they’re missing. Maybe you should see personally.

Unanimous. Writing!

>>3303722
>>3303731
>>3303736
>>3303750
>>3303753
>>3303789
Something’s definitely off-kilter, here. Looking to Izumi, she nods in agreement- it’s clear you’re both thinking the same thing. “Prince?” He looks to you as you speak. “I think it’d be best if me and Hylinde took another look around. We have ways of sensing things that normal people can’t, and we might be able to notice something they missed.”

“Hm…” They look amongst each other, and after some subtle nodding, the Prince turns back to you. “Very well, go. But be cautious. It may be some sort of trap.”

“We will,” you agree, and the two of you set off at a bound.

With your speed and distance, it’s only some minutes before you make it to the city outskirts- and part of you have to stare in distaste.

This place would hell to assault- it’s on a massive uprise, and speaking of uprising! It’s a massive cluster of tiny apartment complexes at first glance, as though they’ve all been made separately and smashed together, even though you know that’s unlikely. The walls do little to protect the high rising buildings- they have to be at minimum six stories tall.

“This is just a mess…” Izumi mutters. “Trying to assault this would have everyone clustered against each other. It’d be more of a violent rave or a mosh pit than an actual battlefield.”

Colorful, but you can’t argue the description. “Smell anything?” you ask as you hone your senses. Initially, there’s a whiff of...something. Nothing too vile, but anything is a positive here. It’s gone as soon as you sense it, however, almost like the wind itself carried it away. Your hearing boost gets nothing but skittering, as well. Four feet, which doesn't tell you as much as it normally does, considering Ratkin. “Dangit, I think I had something…”

“Me too,” Izumi admits. “All I can tell is that it’s for certain in the city.” That’s what you figured, as well- it faded fast, but you’re pretty confident it faded into the city proper. “So we know there’s SOMEONE in there.”

“Question is, what? And one individual doesn’t mean much unless we can find them,” you note.

“I wasn’t able to get a map, but I do recall it rather well,” Izumi says as she takes a few steps forward. “We’re going to want to decide how to approach this…might as well start with a target area to canvas.”

>Where to start? (Map Linked at >>3295329)

>>3303905
Start with Outsider Business.
If it was the Outsiders District, it might have been the least organized in evacuating and they might have left more clues.

>>3303905
>?
Easiest places to start is the guard houses. From there, the military district maybe?

>>3303905
I’d go for the southeast guard houses to start, next to the pleasure district and the slums.

>>3303905
Just Kool-aid towards whatever it is.

Walls are a state of mind.

>>3303905
Direct line to the centre of the city.

Draw whatever it is out with the threat that we might not leave any actual city behind.

>>3303905
Start with upper class domestic district

>>3303905
>>3303930
I'll back
>>3303942
just to get some consensus.

>>3304129
>>3303905
You know, this choice might be irrelevant if they are trying to pull some shit like 'Boulder City' from FalloutNV.

>>3304135
Where is the paranoia-anon when we need him?

>>3304142
I'll vote to burn the place down in his stead.

Unless that's me.

Are you referring to not trusting the Veilspinners?

>>3304149
>I'll vote to burn the place down in his stead.
That's a terrible hypothetical idea.

>>3304149
The one who thought that they would kill the Prince and posted walls of text about their flaws? Aye, that's the one.

>>3304150
Not ALL of it.

But I imagine simulating a fire would draw out whatever is there.

Or maybe little fire.

Can you imagine what kind of fire risk this city must be? I'm honestly surprised it hasn't caught fire on it's own.

>>3304152
Nothing saying they wouldn't have if we hadn't been able to convince them in a backroom deal the Prince himself was excluded from. Not exactly reassuring that they're on anyone's side but their own.

We used a lot of my arguments to convince them anyways.

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>>3304157
>>3304150
Oh shit. A sudden realisation's just hit me - The Shaded Rat King.

>>3303905
>Quick inspection of guard houses, mostly for last written reports, then Upper Class area, if anyone was left behind, that's the prime squatting real estate that right there if I do say so myself and I do.

>>3305236
> What would Lorelei do

>>3303905
Supporting this. Including looting any abandoned fancy places.

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>>3303905
Reread some archives and now I have a few questions:
>Miranda's itemlist
During the preparations for superhero blackops job we've purchased AI Headwear for Power Armor set, yet in both 'Inventory' and 'Equipment to Buy' pastebins it is listed that 'Elite Soldier's Helmet' instead. It's a mix up, right?
Speaking of mix-ups, as we've figured it out during Q&A there should be 'Manastone Rifle' in Miranda's inventory right now and 'Manastone Shotgun' belongs to Lorelei instead.
>Izumi
There was a spin-off thread where she earned a favor from Sal for helping potential new recruit with a test that he set up - did she cash it in for better jobs and additional info on who her clients or does she still have it? Also in the same thread there was a mention of a job solely from her perspective in the future - is it soon?
>Either way, Izumi will get a proper mission all her own in the future. There's a reason I put a number behind this.
Initially I thought that this job would be it when we were given job options, but we're about half-way through and it doesn't seem like there'd be an opportunity to do much during perspective shift.

>>3309424
Pretty sure we traded the shotgun with her during the western arc. The pistol, I dunno where that came from.

>>3309443
Don't remember trading it, gonna do more rereading. I think Miranda and Lori got manastone revolvers each from bandits who tried to poison us, along with gravi-club, some loot, and fingerless gloves that Lori got buggered about later by some dude, though I don't remember if there was a mention of how she resolved that little issue since another perspective shift happened. And second pistol in Randa's inventory could be handwaved as stolen after Flashpoint Heavy Scouts broke her out from jail.

>>3309451
It's been a long time since that job happened, so I could be am probably wrong. Still, the shotgun seems more Miranda's speed, like how the lever action would be better suited for Lori, so, whatever. Also, I think there was a spear in the mix as well.

>Flashpoint Heavy Scouts broke her out from jail.
Don't remember that bit. I assumed Miranda got released thanks to good behavior and the twins that she killed being wingnuts who started a fight and not mentioning that they were deputies.

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>>3309458
Speedread that arc with my affable ESL, found no mentions of them exchanging guns. In fact, Miranda looted even MORE guns during the final thread in the arc, though she might've thrown them in with payment briefcases to be converted into extra motes or something?
>Alright, you’re going to need to think for this one. Quickly jumping back to the other cabin, you rifle through the fallen men’s belongings- a quick pop to the jaw for each of ‘em juuuust in case they tried to wake up- at least one was coming to, so. You pick up three guns- one rifle, one pistol, and the crazy looking gun.
>It’s fortunately not very long- mostly just FINDING them and herding them towards the containment areas. It at the very least allows you an opportunity to filch a few weapons from fallen folks- mostly guns and the stones. They might fetch a price back at The Intersection.

>>3309475
That sucks. I've always preferred the magic shotgun over the lever action. Fits the character better, and it's easier to think up inventive magical shotgun shells then rifle rounds.

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1.03 MB JPG

>>3309509
Guess it was Lori who's got Miranda from jail. Also I wonder if eggheads could replicate that 'Siphon Stone' only from Lori's description.

>>3309424
1: I think it is a mixup, yeah. I'll fix them.

2: The Favor is still in her back pocket. And full honesty, I entirely forgot I said that, but that said, I DO have an idea or two. May be a job or two before it happens, though.

3: See above- I completely and utterly blanked.

>>3309509
Could always trade still.

>>3310450
Could just say we grabbed one of each we didn’t have off of the foes we fought.

I, too, prefer the shotty.

>>3310500
>>3309509

I also like shotties, but Randa does have close range pretty well covered. And because it's magic ammo in a locked breach, we can still get plenty of oddball stuff for it.

>>3310450
>The Favor is still in her back pocket.
Cool!
What about items listed on these screenshots? >>3309475 >>3309424
>Prim Gloves, Traveler's Backpack, Big n' Proper Bowtie
These items are not listed in 'Miranda's Items' and not checked as purchased in 'Available to Buy' pastebins.
Also no idea if these items that Lorelei had (Bentley's Gloves, Cute Black Hat, Fancy Whistle, High Quality Rucksack) were just loot or could count as Equipment by now, since she started with:
>Lorelei’s dressed in what seems to be some sort of...flared leather pants, a bright pink blouse with frilled cuffs, a pair of nice, shined shoes, rounded glasses, and a...feather boa?

>>3310500
IMO lever-action magi-rifle fits Miranda mora than a coachgun. just don't tell her that technically they are just cooler looking magic wands, since they too hold spell-ammo charges and can have customized spells like those magistones do. In fact, they have even bigger variety and lots of utility focused stuff that she could find useful if she wasn't so biased against them.

>>3303905
>>3303930
>>3303942
>>3304129
>>3305236
>>3305680
It takes a bit of recalling, and thinking, but you eventually decide. “Guard houses are probably the best place to start looking. Less chance for ambush, and we might find something off, or telling like reports.” Hopefully, there’d be some kind of movement orders that you can confirm or something similar. “We’ll start with the southeastern ones.” Izumi nods, and the two of you get moving.

The guard houses are large, just like everything else- a proper barracks for what you can only presume is a multitude of ratkin guards and personnel. The fact that everything just seems to have -vanished- for such a mass makes you even more concerned. As you enter the nearest two- a long thin one that’s clearly mostly administrative, and Izumi in an attached building that seems more general purpose, you notice immediately that, just as reported, everything seems...clean. There are cubbyholes for various personnel near the back, desk areas, small posters of what you can assume are wanted individuals, etc. And it’s all upright, as though ready for use in the next instant. All very clean.

Too clean, in fact; and that’s what tips you off. Everything looks as though it was cleaned and wiped off before they left; there’s nothing left amiss or out of place that would even signify casual wear and tear, barring a few scuffs here and there, some beat up practice dummies...but the location itself is…

“Conspicuous in its inconspicuous nature,” Izumi murmurs. You have to agree.

“Come on,” you decide. “Let’s take a look around these buildings and see what we can find.”

>Roll 2d100, best of 3!

Rolled 25, 19 = 44 (2d100)

>>3310612
I spy with my little eye...

Rolled 28, 49 = 77 (2d100)

>>3310612

Rolled 98, 94 = 192 (2d100)

>>3310612

>>3310617
Not much of anything, apparently.
>>3310620
Wow

>>3310620
...huh. I mean.

Okay.

>torches about half of the intended sequence.

>>3310625
Just stick them in your back pocket for when we screw up later. Recycling!

>>3310612
>>3310617
>>3310619
>>3310620
It takes some searching, some digging into parchment folders and scrolls, but you DO eventually find something that looks rather promising- a letter, addressed to a certain ‘R.M.’:

~We have acceded to your requests; the soldiery will be granted extra rationing and full sovereign rights over all recaptured lands in the near future provided such is available. In exchange, the citizenry shall be granted access to the military emergency holdings as detailed in further documentation, as will the citizenry be evacuated posthaste if at all possible to all functional emergency bunkers; ritualists will confirm the reasonable evacuation of all important and respectable individuals before beginning the Scouring, upon which shall persist every day for a fortnight before attempting contact with the outside world to begin reclamation. Great Winged Rat watch us all.~

Huh. “What the hell is the Scouring…?” you mutter to yourself, even though you have a sinking feeling you might already have a decent clue. The parchment is dated, at least...

“Over here!” you hear Izumi call out, and you make your way over to her, crossing a quick hallway, before you find her in a small room, frowning at a set of papers on the desk. “I found this hidden away in a private compartment in one of the walls.”

Seems like a pretty thick sheaf of papers. “What’s it say?”

“Apparently…” she takes a deep breath. “The reason this place looks so clean and untouched is because they...the ENTIRE city is designed to be a MASSIVE ritual circle. And apparently they can launch some sort of massive ‘purging’ ritual to completely eliminate anything out of sorts and to their will.”

“That...sounds powerful,” you venture. “There a catch?”

She nods, solemnly. “It drains their life force severely...and it erases all working biological functions in the area. Regardless of the source.” Her lips go into a thin line as she confirms your worries. Great. That means you’d have a timer on this- although you’re pretty sure that today’s ‘cleansing’ had already passed.

They’d left asap, then just wiped the place to prevent any shadows from keeping hold on it...friendly fire be damned. “To think that they’d sacrifice their own people for this…” Izumi mutters, clearly incensed.

>You’re going to have to inform the Prince about this. All of it. The Ratkin aren’t your enemies, no matter what their internal policies are.
>It may not be nice, but it’d be best to keep the ‘sacrifice play’ bit out in case Prince gets some concerns. Just say that they vanished because of a ritual.
>You’ll keep this to yourselves for now, you think. You’ve still got other avenues to explore.
>Other

>>3310658
>>You’re going to have to inform the Prince about this. All of it. The Ratkin aren’t your enemies, no matter what their internal policies are.
At least they evacuated the population before "Scouring". Need to find out, where they are now.

>>3310658
>You’re going to have to inform the Prince about this. All of it. The Ratkin aren’t your enemies, no matter what their internal policies are.

>>3310658
>You’re going to have to inform the Prince about this. All of it. The Ratkin aren’t your enemies, no matter what their internal policies are.
So we gotta find their military bunkers if we want to get then to join up.

>>3310658
>>You’ll keep this to yourselves for now, you think. You’ve still got other avenues to explore.

Gonna let this set because I've got to go. Will be back in a couple hours to continue- time slipped away from me.

>>3310658
>>You’ll keep this to yourselves for now, you think. You’ve still got other avenues to explore.

>Great Winged Rat watch us all.

Uh so the ratking worships bats? That's kinda funny.

>>3310658
>You’re going to have to inform the Prince about this. All of it. The Ratkin aren’t your enemies, no matter what their internal policies are.
Just so they could quarantine the area. No need to risk unwanted hostilities because someone else got curious and decided to figure this strangd event by themselves and wound up dead and bunch of ratkin appeared outta nowhere.

>>3310658
>You’re going to have to inform the Prince about this. All of it. The Ratkin aren’t your enemies, no matter what their internal policies are.

>>3310755
I'm more worried that the rats might thing that Izumi and Randa are part of the enemy attack force and activate the purging.

>>3310658
>>You’re going to have to inform the Prince about this. All of it. The Ratkin aren’t your enemies, no matter what their internal policies are.
We've no reason to hide this, and it prevents our allies from blundering in.

>>3310751
>winged rats
>bats
>not pigeons

>>3310658
>We have acceded to your requests; the soldiery will be granted extra rationing and full sovereign rights over all recaptured lands in the near future
Guess there's some bargaining between ratkin factions involved if The Lord of the Red Mask agreed on some expansionist ideas their millitary leaders had in exchange for safety of civillians.

>>3310760
But hey, now we know that there are heavy duty desinfection rituals that can kill bacteria.
>Everything looks as though it was cleaned and wiped off before they left;

>>3310793
To bad that apparently the ritual also seems to clean everything else that is organic around it's effect radius.

>>3310968
And that's a perfect decontamination measure! Wonder if we can figure out how to combine it with our 'trap' technique.

>>3310968
sounds familiar...
"Halo doesn't kill Flood. It kills their food. Humans, Covenant, whatever. We're all equally edible. The only way to stop the Flood is to starve them to death. And that's exactly what Halo is designed to do: wipe the galaxy clean of all sentient life."

>>3311022
...why wasn't the halo designed to kill the flood? because it was dead matter or something like that?

>>3310995
Could always ask the rats. Or just take a picture from the city since it's the very structure that is forming the "purging circle".

Hopefully we can manage to make it smaller then the one, the rats did.

Right, back, writing!

>>3310658
>>3310677
>>3310680
>>3310718
>>3310755
>>3310758
>>3310763
“We’re going to have to tell Prince about this. Probably show him these letters, too,” you decide.

“I have to agree,” nods Izumi. “Especially considering the extensive measures they’ve taken and possible political plays they’ve hinted at. We should inform the alliance at once.”

Quickly absconding from the area, you make your way back to the waiting army, who’re surprised at your speedy return, to say the least. “Found something big,” you note.

“Already?” Thorumin seems surprised, and his face settles into a mien of disgruntledness. “I don’t like what that may imply for my scouts…”

“To be fair, these were hidden, and if they were just doing a cursory inspection, they wouldn’t have found them,” Izumi mollifies a bit. “Nonetheless…” The two of your are quick to explain the situation...and as you might’ve expected, there’s a number of different reactions to the news.

“You mean to tell me that they sought to profit from this madness in such a way?” Braun rumbles dangerously. “Ingracious…”

“Can’t say I’m surprised, really,” Thorumin admits. “Although it’d be best if we kept up appearances at least. Still, we know that the city is safe, for a certain meaning of the word. Although unfortunately, that means that our potential Rat allies…

“Scattered to the winds,” Za-Leil finishes for him. “We will find them, in due time. But to enter the city now is dangerous. We should move on, come morning.”

“That seems to be the most prudent decision,” the Prince admits. “Although it will mean a bit of adjustment to our war plans. I won’t lie; I was greatly hoping for the Ratkin to bolster our numbers heavily. We’ll have to keep things moving, and go for more specific strikes on cities and strongholds.”

> Actually...SOMEONE was in there, and you’re keen to find out who.
> Understandable call. You’ll turn in with them. (Timeskip)
> Request to return briefly- you want to see about that city-wide ritual circle...
> Other

>>3311159
> Actually...SOMEONE was in there, and you’re keen to find out who.
> Request to return briefly- you want to see about that city-wide ritual circle...
We probably can do both since there are two of us and Futuresight can take pictures.

>>3311159
> Actually...SOMEONE was in there, and you’re keen to find out who.

>>3311159
>> Request to return briefly- you want to see about that city-wide ritual circle...

Hm. Should be able to work this out. Writing.

>>3311159
> Actually...SOMEONE was in there, and you’re keen to find out who.

Well now we know that a city wide circle is possible. We should really take a picture of it. If the rats can do it. Nothing says that the enemy can't do the same.

>>3311515
Guess the next thing on our training list would be studying books on rituals together with Izumi while they are still relevant in order to recognize how our enemies may apply them in combat. Or what application we could use ourselves - some new modifications for Izumi's aura or Miranda's traps could be interesting.

>>3311515
i think it would be pretty obvious if the enemy did something like this, the place would be filled with mages chanting and chanting. also, unless the rats could build their city in weeks or months at best, it would be damn hard to recreate an enchantment circle this big

>>3311159
>>3311184
>>3311235
>>3311256
“Actually, I’d like for us to go back,” you state. “I want to see if there’s anything to this presence we sensed, as well as maybe trying to figure out that city-wide circle.” If there was any way at all you could miniaturize the form of it without losing much function, then such a spell would prove highly useful, you think.

“You think you might be able to find something else?” the Prince wonders out loud. “Well, I suppose...but I must ask that you not take too long. We don’t want you Scoured, and we don’t know when that happens. Be cautious.”

“We will,” you reassure, and the both of you head out once again, Izumi looking curious.

Once you approach the city again, she turns to you. “So, then. Want me to get started on pursuit while you go up? I can only assume you want a picture of the place.”

> “Might as well.” (Where do we go first?)
> “Actually, I want you to look at this, too, just in case.”
> Other (Alternate plan?)

>Regardless of vote, roll a 3d100. Best of 3.

Rolled 8, 66, 34 = 108 (3d100)

>>3311587
> “Actually, I want you to look at this, too, just in case.”
> Other (Alternate plan?)

There had to be a place to control the array from, we should check there if we can figure it out

Otherwise hit up the centre of the array.

Rolled 35, 25, 8 = 68 (3d100)

>>3311587
> “Actually, I want you to look at this, too, just in case.”
Therep'd be benefit if we both get a look from vantage point when we'll start looking for that misterious stranger later on.

Rolled 78, 18, 34 = 130 (3d100)

>>3311587
>“Actually, I want you to look at this, too, just in case.”

Rolled 61, 85, 13 = 159 (3d100)

>>3311587
>> “Might as well.” (Where do we go first?)
We can show he the pics after, and we don't want to linger
Poke around the whatever is closest one our way to the center (military district is my preference, but I'm not overly attached).

Roll number 3 seems like isn't on it's day today.

78, 66, 34. Writing!

>>3311587
>>3311592
>>3311598
>>3311600
You shake your head. “Actually, I want you to look at this, too, just in case. I think having a second pair of eyes higher up will help.”

“What, do you intend to carry me?” Izumi asks, raising her eyebrow.

You nod. Not like she weighs a ton. “Shouldn’t take too long. I’m just going to get up as high as I can, take a few pictures, and see if I can’t figure this out.”

“Actually…” Izumi mutters to herself. “I think I could help with that.”

The two of you quickly bound over the wall and find your way up to the tallest area in the city- that being a massive building, near a skyscraper in the center. It’s not a giant city in sheer diameter, but the fact that it’s so cramped means that you have to do a lot of climbing and jumping simply to get good purchase to continue up. You’re actually kinda happy about it- this is a bit more what you’re used to in terms of traversal and what you prefer.

As you get to the top, you look to Izumi. “So, what’s your plan?”

To answer that, she cups her hands and takes a knee, and it immediately clicks. “Step on.”

Izumi’s certainly strong enough, and with a yell of effort as you step up, she hurls you into the sky- certainly enough to get a pretty wide view of the city- it’s size is minor enough at least that you can spread your wings, and quickly glide around as horizontally as possible to get some pictures. It’s tough to make sure you’re oriented in the same position all the time for it to all match up, but after a set of about a dozen pictures just to be safe, you decide that should do it- wait a sec.

...there’s something down there in one of the pictures- number six, near the northern part of the Business District. You hadn’t seen it at the time, but it’s something...clearly some sort of individual with a white cloak, and moving towards the center of the city- where you lot are.

>You might be able to catch them by surprise if you can find them from up here. Let Izumi know and see if she can’t provide support.
>Best to land and try to corner him together, just in case. Don’t want them looking up at random and getting worried.
>Leave it alone- you’re avoiding this whole city, so whatever’s going on in here isn’t your concern at all.
>Other

>>3311890
>>Best to land and try to corner him together, just in case. Don’t want them looking up at random and getting worried.

>>3311890
>You might be able to catch them by surprise if you can find them from up here. Let Izumi know and see if she can’t provide support.

>>3311890
>>You might be able to catch them by surprise if you can find them from up here. Let Izumi know and see if she can’t provide support.

>>3311890
>You might be able to catch them by surprise if you can find them from up here. Let Izumi know and see if she can’t provide support.

>>3311890
>You might be able to catch them by surprise if you can find them from up here. Let Izumi know and see if she can’t provide support.

Writing!

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>>3312058
>inb4 'I sexually indentify as...'

>>3311890
>>3311927
>>3311967
>>3312022
>>3312041
“Izumi, checking the photos up here, and I think I spotted someone,” you quickly relay via stone. “White cloak, medium stature, I think. Not much else identifying, but he was headed in our direction. Might be able to intercept him.”

“Roger,” she quickly announces. “Coming down or staying up?”

“Staying up,” you respond. “May be able to catch him off guard. You keep a lookout on the ground.”

“Moving, then. Out.” The line cuts, and you’re already banking around to make another pass at where he was heading, swooping low enough to stay just above the rooftops. The streets are clean enough so that any movement is going to immediately be noticeable...you’ve just got to keep your eye out for them...aha! There!

It’s moving fast; crossing two more streets and still heading for the center- from his angle, it seems like he’s heading for the southernmost in the center- not the tallest one, but still obvious. You’re about to report it in, but Izumi beats you to the punch. “I’m hearing noise and sensing movement below. Think we’ve found our target. What do we do?” You don’t have much time before he makes it to the large, stone and wood building, and you’ll have more limited options once he does.

> Tail him. We need to see where he goes.
> Go for capture. We can’t risk this lead getting away.
> Other

>>3312342
>Go for capture. We can’t risk this lead getting away.

>>3312342
>> Tail him. We need to see where he goes.

>>3312342
> Go for capture. We can’t risk this lead getting away.
I feel like this is bait for anons, but whatever.

>>3312342
>Go for capture. We can’t risk this lead getting away.

>>3312342
>Go for capture. We can’t risk this lead getting away.

We're like a giant bat swooping in to snatch its prey or something. Scree.

Writing!

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>>3312467
I think Miranda would be easily identified as a Flying Fox.

>>3312342
>>3312369
>>3312385
>>3312409
>>3312410
Doesn’t take long for you to decide. “Go for capture. We need information. Let me know when you’re in range of him; we’ll try to surprise him.”

“Roger that.” Whoever this individual is, they’re in something of a hurry, it seems- racing through the streets as fast as their legs can carry. Speaking of, this close, you can see a bit more about them. They’re not wide enough to be a Weaver, and they’re definitely not lumbering enough to be a Bearkin. Human, Rat, maybe Bunny, or something else, who knows?

They’re less than a block away when you see Izumi down a couple of streets. “You’re on intercept course with him- keep moving down that road!” You’re already tilting down, hoping that this dive thing works. “I’m going in!”

The wind whips at your face as you pull your wings in a bit, preparing to catch yourself from crashing into the cobblestone. You can now see the detail in the cloak- it’s a lot more elaborate than it looked, something fancy for a reason. You have to wait for your moment, though, can’t go too soon…

As soon as he sees Izumi, he stops, trying to reach inside his cloak for something- that’s the time! You tilt forward, and push yourself downwards; his yelling gets louder as you careen towards him; your wings flare out a bit, and you manage to snatch him by the torso, pinning his arms next to him as the air catches- your grip falters, though as you try to reorient yourself; you’re not used to these kinds of maneuvers, and because of that, one of his arms gets free enough to move around a bit and finish rummaging inside…

>roll 1d20, best of 3.

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3312607

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>3312607

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>3312607

Rolled 11 (1d100)

>>3312607

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>3312607
Gotcha!

Yeah no stop that.

Writing!

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>>3312657
No stopping the Assault Helicopter "Miranda"