>>3499038
“Honestly, we’ve been at this for a while now,” you mention as you rifle through your things, allowing your mana stones to perk you up a bit. “And I’m thinking that that’s probably the cleanest solution to all of this. We’ve got a near-direct line to his place, so we can just blow him up and call it a day.”

“Do you really think it’ll be so easy, even with our technological advantages?” Izumi asks. “Old magicians like this can be quite stubborn.”

“It’ll at least piss him off and wipe out any reinforcements he might have inside,” you note, and she can’t rebut that. “So, then…ready to go?”

She sighs a bit, wearing a small smirk that shows her acquisience. “Sure. Let’s hope for the best.”

It’s no time at all to take off, but you know you’ll have to be quick, as the Prince’ll be kinda peeved once he realizes you’re gone. “...Is it me or is that portal...smaller?” Izumi asks, and you have to admit, it kinda does…

“Well, no time for second guessing, then!” And so the two of you immediately rush for it- there’s no stopping, no last looks, just a dive in, and a sudden, freezing cold feeling that bites at your skin, although it only lasts for a stark moment.

And then you’re on the other side, and in the middle of what seems to be a courtyard...one lined with circles, and you both immediately realize you’re in the middle of a massive ritual circle in someone’s backyard. And judging by the fifty foot (or is that a bit bigger than fifty feet…? Maybe around eighty) tower not far in front of you, surrounded by wicked looking vines and cawing crows, you have a pretty good guess whom it belongs to.

“Gyahahahah! Sooo, someone decided to take the bait!” Hm? That’s a new voice. Girly, too. Who- ah. One of the windows; a younger girl- probably around...teenaged years, and wow does she look stereotypical goth. Split black/white hairdo, pale, and some kind of black leather getup you can’t quite see from here, as she’s a few stories up, it seems. “Didn’t think anyone would really come in here by themselves. A couple of ‘heroes’, are you? Pfah! What makes you think you can defeat the great Lord Kolm?”

> Say nothing. She’ll find out in a few minutes.
> “Mostly this.” Surprise Magiblast!
> “Experience.”
> Other

>>3499039
>Mana tether her, then drag her towards us
>> “Experience.”

>>3499039
> Say nothing. She’ll find out in a few minutes.
Good afternoon, boss.

>>3499039
>Say nothing. She’ll find out in a few minutes.
>Mana tether her out of her spot

>>3499039
> Say nothing. She’ll find out in a few minutes.

So, grab her, pull her out, walk away?

M'kay. Gonna need a roll. 1d20, best of three.

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3499109
Welp.

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>3499109

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>3499109

...I actually ended up a bit busy. Writing, though!

>>3499109
You’re not going to say anything to her. She’s not worth the time when her entire reason for being is quite literally about to come crumbling down. Although first…

Well, she seems to take your silence as answer enough. “Nothing to say, huh? Just hopes and dreams? Well, I’d wish you good luck in getting to the top, but I’d be ly- huh?!” Like a bolt you point your finger at her, and a thin strand of stick mana shoots out; she flinches instinctively, and before she realizes it, it smacks against her shoulder, still partway out of the window. You can hear a small gasp of surprise from Izumi before you pull, and with a shrill bleating of a yell, she topples three full stories, her body twisting and flailing before hitting the ground with a resounding -thud- amidst tall grass. Not quite a splat, no, but you suspect more than a few bones broken.

“...No, really, why’d you have to go and do that?” Izumi asks, face flat. “I mean, that struck me as just insulting.”

“Kind of the point,” you mutter as you take tentative steps towards her. Although, the moaning and twitching tells you that she’s not moving anywhere soon. Honestly, from the looks of things...no, yeah, human legs don’t normally bend that way, and there’s some blood there, definitely. But she’s still in the land of the living for now, and perhaps for the immediate future, at least. “Yeah, she’s out of it for now. C’mon, let’s get the stuff set up. We only need to cover one side, gravity will do the rest.”

She nods, but you don’t miss the pitying and concerned look she gives the girl before she follows.

The base of the tower is reasonably wide, which is why you opted to just lumberjack it instead of trying to clear the entire base. Going in shouldn’t even be necessary if the explosion is directed properly. “Remember, thin sheets.” Still, you’ve got more than a few pounds here per brick. Should work fine.

“Of course.” Right, Izumi probably knows as much if not more about this than you do.

It’s several minutes of molding the explosive sets, and priming the whole setup...although oddly enough, there aren’t any shadow monsters nearby, no strange beasts or guard dogs. No sound at all, really. Just the wind and your breathing. Weird, but welcome.

Before long, you’re all set. A baker’s dozen of explosive charges, all strung together, making a lovely little smile over the back half of his oh-so-wicked tower. As you prep the detonator, you’re surprised to see Izumi bound off for a moment- but before you can wonder or ask where she’s going, she’s back...with the girl in tow, unsurprisingly. “I felt it...wrong, to not have her face justice properly. She’s not our primary target. He is.” She’s probably that girl that helps him with rituals, though. Not that you’re bothering to remember her name right now. Shrugging, you and her quickly get far away as possible- this thing’s gonna make a lot of noise and throw up a lot of debris.

Alright… “Ready?” She nods once. “Fire in the hole!”

(cont)

>>3499266
*BANG* *BANG* *BANG* *BANG* *BANG* *BANG* And on and on the sounds of destruction that, for a few brief moments, rock the entire plain.

The explosion chain is incredible, and already bits and pieces of stone and granite are thrown up; even some foliage and dirt, and it’s almost immediately you can hear the cracks, feel the rumbling as stones shift under weight they can’t hold, tottering to one side as the collapse begins.
Almost like a localized earthquake, the whole thing comes tumbling, tumbling down; something that no doubt its owner thought either impenetrable or devouring from the inside- it was pretty obvious that whatever was inside was likely some strange set of tricks and traps to get the better of whoever dared.

That’s gone now. Whatever was in there was either very VERY well protected, or just so much junk now. You can’t see anyone or anything at the moment, but you have to be careful…

“Alright, now let’s see what the good Lord Kolm has to...hm?” Odd. You can scent SOMETHING nearby...something a bit smelly, even.

Problem being, that scent isn’t near the demolition area. It IS nearby, though, and unmoving.

>Get Izumi to hold things down here, see what’s up yourself.
>Ask Izumi to check it out while you secure the area and see if anything or anyone survived it.
>Note it, but ignore it for now- you both need to be paying attention in case any surprises show up.
>Other

>>3499300
>Get Izumi to hold things down here, see what’s up yourself.

>>3499300
>Other
Ping Izumi, leave it up to her whether she wants to stay behind or back you up. Check the presence out.

>>3499300
>>Get Izumi to hold things down here, see what’s up yourself.
"If you're going to heal her up, save your mana and use the potion we got from the Lizards. We might have company..."

>>3499300
>Get Izumi to hold things down here, see what’s up yourself
>Other: if she wants to heal up the girl, use the local consumables first.

>>3499307
>>3499300
In addition
>Give Izumi the gauntlets

>>3499300
>>Get Izumi to hold things down here, see what’s up yourself.

>>3499350
Why the gauntlets? We've got healing potions that'll go bad if we don't use them and won't use mana.

>>3499350
she can heal way better(and arguably) and with less mana drain than us, we should keep the gauntlets.

>>3499300
>Get Izumi to hold things down here, see what’s up yourself.

>>3499358
I'm not sure that potion can unbend her broken legs or heal ruptured intestines in case they've turned into mush.

>>3499366
I should've made this clearer - I meant 'lend', not 'gift'. As for her own healing, for some reason I thought that her healing aura would cost much more than using the gauntlets, but healing Carrang was the only time when their manacost was ever shown - there were no numbers for Veilspeaker resurrection attempt.

Ugh, kinda tired. Run proper tomorrow!

>>3499383
>I meant 'lend', not 'gift'.
I understood that, but her whole shtick is to protect and defend the innocents. It stands to reason that she is way better at healing that us.

>>3499389
>we should keep the gauntlets
I interpreted this as you thinking that I intend to gift them away.

>Heavenly Aura:
>By entering a meditative trance, Izumi can exude a wide aura that speeds up the natural healing process and bestows feelings of good health and energy. More efficient than Miranda's own healing.
Maybe I misunderstood Izumi's healing technique description, but 'natural healing process' could be less effective that gauntlet's restoration in current case.
Besides, we're probably better off using weapons with bigger range at this moment, so temporarily parting with gauntlets is not a big deal and this gesture would be far nicer than offhandedly suggesting to use a potion.

>>3499410
Maybe, but I'm coming at this wondering about how effective the potions are. Whenever we get a consumable healing item, we tend to put it in our back pocket and use our healing spells. Meanwhile, the potion just sits in our inventory, forgotten, until it expires. I figure if we use the potions first, we can get an idea of how effective they are, and possibly look into getting some alchemy books from here, if we get a chance.

Why do we never use the gauntlets to attack they are supposedly better at it than healing and we are better at hand to hand than swords and stuff?

>>3499423
Funnily enough, aqualungs potion was forgotten about by everyone literally two threads later. As for consumable healing items I only remember healing potions from the first mission, and they were properly used whenever the possibility presented itself. Maybe you're mixing them up with invisibility potions.

>>3499429
Because of their inferior range, plus practicing our weapons proficiency. Magic technique is not the only thing we can improve.

>>3499434
Here, check out the unofficial inventory list. There's the mystery potion Mono found on the mission where she got a couple of cool swords and a burstfire capable crossbow, and the potions in the Healthy Heart Elixir pack we got for the Artificer crossover.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Z3xqyWOe5upXuYIUsBSV4pWkC1sG0mnYzn_lJyRJZiI/edit

>>3499434
But getting inside opponents effective range is good and once your there they are at a disadvantage and we have blasts to make openings while we are at a range disadvantage maranda has been doing this for decades if hand to hands up close style was so ineffective that a less skilled opponent was able to dumpster her she wouldn't be as good at it as she is because she would have given it up as a bad job ages ago.

>>3499448
Because some people like having a variety of weaponry in their melee combat. It drives me up a wall when we're in a setting with cool fantasy or sci-fi melee options, and we just stick with hand-to-hand.

That, and the gauntlet's time powers only work in reverse, and for a limited point in time. So, it's good for removing recent wounds from patients and fixing recently broken structures, but they can't really inflict magical damage or age foes up to where they turn to dust.

>>3499448
The deal is that we were fighting against armed formations, so by closing our range there would be even more opponents that could reach us in theirs. That's one of the reasons why we prefered to use halberd over swords and gauntlets.

>>3499460
That's totally valid and I agree but saying hand to hand is less effective is a bit much. As for the gauntlets I didn't read any crunch on them but when the druid bears gave em to us they said it's easier to destroy than create so I assumed they had a good damage enchant or something

>>3499461
Ah yeah true didn't think about that actually maranda is a monster if she gets a hand on her opponent but Mook waves are a very effective counter heh

>>3499445
>Mysterious Potion
Yeaaaah, but it's a 'cat in the bag' item and we had very few opportunities to test it out since character switches are rare.

>Healthy Heart Elixir Pack
I don't remember us ever purchasing this pack and it was never mentioned during the crossover. It's marked red until Handler confirms it.

>>3499470
>That's totally valid and I agree
Cool beans
>but saying hand to hand is less effective is a bit much.
...I didn’t say hand-to-hand was less effective. It’s our best combat skill, I admit. I just like using every cool new melee weapon we find at least once.

>>3499482
Ah yeah I might have been reading into stuff that wasn't there sorry bout that.

Have we actually hit anything with our new gloves yet tho? I'm not saying we should now or even this mission but it's something to keep in mind.

>>3499488
>Have we actually hit anything with our new gloves yet tho?
We've punched some shadow demons while helping elite lizardkin warriors on our way to their capital. That's it.

>>3499488
Yeah, I think we pulled them out in Thread #67, when we were headed into the Lizard Kingdom right before we met the elite warriors.

>>3499495
Ah so it's just punch a little better and no flashy power huh.

>>3499323
Last minute add in for this.
“I’d have thought you’d be more unsympathetic, considering her mentor might have been teaching her how to summon those shadow things, and how close to demons they are.”

>>3499495
Yup. I would like to see if we can enchant it further so we could age things up and de-age them quickly. Might be able to figure out something in the Intersection...

>>3499498
Second paragraph meant for >>3499498.

>>3499500
That's a good idea like we are actually confused when it's good to be sympathetic and when not to. God poor Randa is so fucked up

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>>3499502
>Fucks up linking the correct post.
>...again
...I’m just gonna go to bed.

>>3499300
>>3499307
>>3499323
>>3499341
>>3499355
>>3499366
“That’s interesting,” you say evenly, motioning vaguely off in the direction where the scent came from. “The tower didn’t collapse quite right.” Don’t want to tip them off too much, if they’re listening.

“Ah. Thing something fell from it?” Thank goodness for Izumi’s quick understanding.

“Yeah. You stay here and make sure things are workable. I’ll make sure nothing fell too far.” If someone was spying on you both, or hiding otherwise, you’re not going to just let it go.

“Right, then.” ...Oh, and she’d no doubt do something towards that idiot girl in the meantime. “Here’s a potion I had lying around. Just in case.” She takes it wordlessly, and you start walking.

You can see that the tower’s rubble really DID kind of go far- there seemed to be a lot of loose objects in that place- and when you pass by on a roundabout path to the smell, there’s a few flesh and blood...things, laying dead amidst the stone. You’re not sure if they’re natural, but judging by the fur, they’re definitely not human, at least.

It’s a large circle that you have to make, but the smell has shifted a bit away from you, and in fact it’s...waned a bit. Or sweetened, rather. Both, actually.

...Good. That means they’re dying, whoever they are. Bleeding out.

Your steps are more sure, your pace more direct now as you home in on the source. You’re starting to have an inkling, but just to be certain…

“Aha.” And it’s hardly a minute more of tracking in the grass and ruins and rocks and trees that you see the source of it: an old man in thick black robes, bloody and crawling. A long, thin grey beard adornes a sharp, yet wrinkled face topped with an odd, circular hat. You quickly nudge him over with your foot, and a pair of wizened, slate grey eyes stare back at you.

There’s a moment of silence as you look him over, and he glares at you with naked hatred- irises or no, there’s no mistaking the malice he holds for you. And then he speaks; his voice crackled and deep, yet weakening bit by bit. “Whyyyy...so close…? The shadows...betrayed…”

Betrayed? Well, obvious who this is. Lord Kolm himself.

>He’s got a bit of life left in him. See if he won’t spend it talking, just in case.
>Welp, he’ll never know. Sucks sometimes. Glad his head seems mostly in one piece. You need that.
>Other

>>3501538
>"Die wondering, Kolm."
>Welp, he’ll never know. Sucks sometimes. Glad his head seems mostly in one piece. You need that.
>Grab that hat, too. And whatever else he's got in his robes.

No need to feel sorry, he brought this situation on himself.

>>3501538
Holy damn, we just skipped the final boss by blowing up his lair instead. I wish we had more reasonable choices like this in most games.
Or we can blame the goth girl instead, since not everyday we get a portal to where precisely we need to be to make it happen.
>Welp, he’ll never know. Sucks sometimes. Glad his head seems mostly in one piece. You need that.
Would love to make some chit chat myself, but Miranda's more efficient.

>>3501538
>Welp, he’ll never know. Sucks sometimes. Glad his head seems mostly in one piece. You need that.

>>3501605
Heh, now take a minute and think about how much time Handler spent on coming up with various ideas for traps and encounters for this tower.

I'm not even joking, you guys skipped three combat encounters and Kolm's power boosted boss fight.

I'm not mad, but I'm laughing to stop from sighing. I signed myself up for this.

>>3501640
Well, maybe you could make yourself feel better by telling us all the loot we missed!

Or maybe just depress us so we can feel what your feeling.

File: Trio - Mission Accomplished.jpg (2.29 MB, 2541x2160)

2.29 MB JPG

>>3501640
Welp, at least we have the loot to go through. And Zatzil's hoard.
I love it when things go smooth.
Hooray for sticky mana!

The age old solution to bring down a powerful magi as Kiritsugu tried and tested. Glad I voted for bring the whole tower down.

File: Proper Shadowrunner Solution.jpg (359 KB, 700x3333)

359 KB JPG

>>3501640
Honestly? Pic related.

>>3501538
>Other
"Outside context problems are a bitch, aren't they? You got anywhere to be? Or someone to go to?"
Don't want any loose ends, after all. We're a professional.

Yeah, you can’t say you give a damn. “Die wondering.” You need his head, after all.

He manages a shocked gasp before you slice his head off with a magi-wave. And almost immediately, there’s a loud, SHRILL wail of wind as, to your surprised, a massive torrent of darkness and show comes pooling out of his body, vicious and swirling, nearly tearing up the remains of his body out into the air- and fading into a silvery-bluish color after flowing high in the air, eventually dissipating into the sky after a few minutes.

Finally. Fucking FINALLY. You quickly grab his head and open your murmur stone. “You see that!?”

“I did!” comes the excited voice of Izumi. “That was him?”

“I think he tried to teleport or had some kind of escape plan that didn’t quite take,” you surmise. “Doesn’t matter- I have the fucker’s head now. We’re officially done here aside from the bonus pay.”

“Thank goodness,” she admits. “This took quite some time-”

“NOOOOOOOOOO!” ah, that’s probably the girl. Well, whatever. She’s of no concern to you.

After fishing through the tower’s remains, which reveal nothing that’s actually still in one piece. Even with your gauntlets, only so much could be done, it seems, when the various parts of what were made are still in existence. A pair of worthless circlets for your head, and some sort of crafted totem clearly missing a chunk. If there was anything else in there, it’s dust, or gone period.

Nearby, the girl is near catatonic, and Izumi is serenely calm. “I think we need to find our way back as soon as possible.”

“Agreed. Probably going to get a chewing out from Prince.” But, frankly, you don’t care.

When you do, after a bit of determination of direction, you’re met by a frantic and frustrated Thorumin and Prince and- well. Everyone, really. Although…you can’t help but notice something harrowing. Namely, that the place looks like it’d been through the beginnings of a massive battle.

“My word, what on earth did you do!?” Prince asks heatedly. “Not to mention, why just go off like that?!”

“We grew rather worried,” Braun notes, “When the hordes showed up and you were nowhere to be seen. And then they...vanished.”

“Sure did,” you agree. “Probably because of this.” And you hold his head in your hands easily, the lot of the leaders gaping at your prize. “There you go.”

Za-Leil is the first to speak. “...Incredible. The loud sounds were your doing, then. Destroyed indeed.”

“Quite so,” Thorumin agrees in a soft voice. “To think it’s over, and so quickly…”

“We utilized all the tools and skills at our disposal,” Izumi says diplomatically. “I for one, amd happy to say that your struggles with the darkness are, as of this moment, over.”

And now?

PAYMENT. Although, speaking of that...you have a spider or two to see.

(cont)

>>3501854
“My oh my oh my!” Zatzil wears a look of pleasant surprise, Lispa is shocked, and Malis is...well, also shocked, but in the sense of absolutely flabbergasted. “So that’s that, is it? Ohohohohoh!”

“I can’t believe this…” Malis says, quietly. “When the clan at large hears of this, there will be...far more trickery in the tunnels. Revolts even. No one will want to be seen supporting Mistress Zai in this situation. Especially if what you said about the Alliance’s demands are true…” And suddenly, Malis looks exceedingly concerned about her immediate future.

“Well, considering my EXCELLENT connections to the Alliance and the contributes I’ve made to them, I may be considerate enough to use my connections to see to your continued protection, provided you support me…” Zatzil preens.

“...I’m listening, Mistress Ascendant,” Malis mutters, with Lipsa nodding as well.

What connections is SHE talking about? Gah, whatever. The rest is up to her on that front, really. She knows what might happen.

As for you, you stay around long enough to hear the announcement, the cheers; there’ll be some cleanup as they go around finding the pockets of resistance or arresting the more mortal members of Kolm’s group, and of course finding the Ratkin and wherever the hell THEY bugged off to. The Prince quickly implores you to bring the head to his father, where he’d be more than willing to pay the price. But you and Izumi, on the other hand? After receiving assurance of the location, you’d…

>Finished some last things before heading to Zatzil’s treasure trove. (What?)
>Headed straight off to plunder. She’d hardly need it in the days to come after all.

>>3501934
>Headed straight off to plunder. She’d hardly need it in the days to come after all.

>>3501934
>Finished some last things before heading to Zatzil’s treasure trove.
>Norima promised a reward for 'saving' her friend
>Give Carrang's note to the Prince

>>3501934
>Finished some last things before heading to Zatzil’s treasure trove.

>Tell me what type of security you put in the place, traps, magical or not. Rituals of protectiin and give me the word and ways to deactivate everything


Oh god i just realize the rats might be trying to steal everything they can grab!!! BLOODY LOOTERS!!

>>3501934
>>Finished some last things before heading to Zatzil’s treasure trove. (What?)
Tie up Canaa (Kolm's goth acolyte) to get her bounty, give the Veilspeakers a Sal Token in case Zatzil fucks up, offer Lispa a job (if Izumi approves), and stop by the new inn those former Blackweb foot soldiers started on the way back from getting the loot.
>By the way, Izumi, why were you interested in keeping Canaa alive? I’d have thought you’d be more unsympathetic, considering her mentor might have been teaching her how to summon those shadow things, and how close to demons they are."

>>3501934
Supporting any of this
>>3501958
>>3501976

I'm curious about what Sal has for us when we're back.

Getting what is owed.

>>3501982
I wonder what is the next job desu.

>>3501982
I'm more curious if the girls would become folklore characters or not.

>>3501934
>Finished some last things before heading to Zatzil’s treasure trove. (What?)
Curious what the crazy elf? lady we punched into submission is all about
>>3501982
Hopefully it's promotions. Promotions are nice.

>>3502053
We're finally taking the robos on their official shakedown mission, though we don't know any details yet.
>>3502071
>Hopefully it's promotions. Promotions are nice.
Promotions mean more paperwork and responsibilities. Not so nice.

>>3501640
To be fair, we probably destroyed a tower's worth of loot&salvage for this. But I'd take that if it means a safer resolution to this mission. Not like it was guranteed that the big bad wizard would be damaged from the explosion. Thank goodness it did.

Say, boss? Could we say we scanned the weapons Miranda and Izumi picked up along the way to Zatzil's treasure? Save some time with us trying to figure them out.

>>3501640
It's fine Handler, just recycle the ideas for the next missions so they won't go to waste.

>>3501934
>>3501958
>>3501962
>>3501976
>>3501982
There were a few things you wanted to wrap up- quite literally, in one girl’s case. She DID have a bounty on her, after all…

“Alright, here,” you say as you hand Prince Carrange’s note. “Keep an eye out, and be careful, since we’ll be off from here on.” Carrang was...distraught to see you go, but she’d accepted it after about ten solid minutes of complaining and wheedling as you prepared some provisions, just in case.

Norima nearby nods at the both of you in thanks. “You both have our gratitude. You will serve as a constant reminder that the future, even to those who can speak to the Veil, is never truly knowable, and can always be influenced. My mother will be pleased to hear of this.”

“Good to hear,” you allow. “Oh, and don’t worry; if Zatzil screws up, the Prince knows how to contact us.”

“Oh, have a LITTLE faith in me, would you?” Zatzil says airily. “I grant you access to my store of riches and I get all this lip. How sad…”

Blah. She can just go somewhere with all that. "If you have any nasty surprised, then I'll be mad."

"Oh, please," she waves off. "I considered the difficulty in getting to it trial enough. Besides, I didn't want to bother with all of that."

"Right." You're skeptical, but here's hoping anyway. Turning to Norima, you continue your conversation. “Anyway, you DID mention a reward, I think…”

Norima blinks, mind going back. “Ah. So I did. Follow me, then.” The two of you are brought to the area where the Veilspeakers normally camp out, and she walks over to a large set of chests, ostensibly for storage. It takes some time, but she fishes out a rather small, yet wide bottom piece of clothing that looks like a dress coat. “This piece of clothing was made from Dawnspinner silk, before the war started. It was also enchanted to assist in seeing the surface thoughts of the Veil by our trainees. I don’t know how much use it will be to you, but hopefully it will.” Oh. Interesting. If nothing else, might get some money for it.

“Thanks.” You offer. You were kind of hoping for money or a bit more than that, but...eh, it’ll do. You guess.

“We wish you safe journey,” she says, and after saying goodbyes to everyone, you’re both off. Honestly, you FINALLY get to travel at full speed, which means the both of you should be there in a few hours.

>Roll 1d13, best of 5. Poke Hand Rules in effect.

Rolled 5 (1d13)

>>3502342

Rolled 3 (1d13)

>>3502342

Rolled 4 (1d13)

>>3502342

Rolled 2 (1d13)

>>3502342

>>3502348
>>3502355
>>3502361
>>3502377
I’m terrible at card games, but should this count for something?

>>3502385
That looks like a straight/straight flush I think, but we're missing a 1.

>>3502385
If someone rolls 1 or 6 we'd get a 'straight'.

Rolled 8 (1d13)

>>3502342

>>3502387
How are we supposed to get a flush? By having same ID colours?

>>3502400
...damn.

>>3502400
Drats! So close too.
Maybe Handler can throw us a bone?

...Wait, shit.

I meant 5d13, sorry. Wasn't thinking.

Rolled 8, 9, 3, 8, 9 = 37 (5d13)

>>3502404
Oh, okay. Individual rolls, poker rules per post, right?

Rolled 13, 4, 2, 1, 2 = 22 (5d13)

>>3502404
right then, second go around. Let's see if we can get something better than High Card this time.

Rolled 8, 3, 11, 5, 8 = 35 (5d13)

>>3502404
It's k, we don't have to pay motes per post.

>>3502404
So, five rolls of 5d13, then?

Rolled 9, 9, 12, 3, 1 = 34 (5d13)

>>3502404

>>3502348
>>3502355
>>3502361
>>3502377
>>3502400

Sorry about that!

>>3502405
>>3502408

Yes. For example, >>3502405 has two pair. 8's and 9's, but it's something.

Rolled 13, 2, 5, 1, 6 = 27 (5d13)

>>3502404

>>3502405
Hey, someone actually got something this time! Good job anon!


>>3502385
I also suck at poker, but I found this helpful here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_poker_hands#Hand-ranking_categories

righto. Lesse what that's supposed to get you... Writing!

The hand name is a hint in this case.

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>>3502415

>>3502404
“Alright, careful now…” The trip wasn’t too bad...but geez, finding the crevasse was annoying, despite her instructions and supposed landmark- she apparently hadn’t wagered on the rock having collapsed for whatever reason since she was last there. Currently, you’re being lowered in by Izumi, holding a rope. “See anything?”

You do. “It’s pretty much like she said. Opens up a few yards down. A lot of water, a lot of rock, and a cavern to the east. I can see why she didn’t bother with traps. This fall would kill any normal human, or anyone without rope or web.” It was otherwise rather empty; no indicators of what lay down here or anything. “I’ll drop first, you secure the line just in case, and I’ll see you down here.”

“Right.” With that, you let go, and the wind whistles in your ears for a few moments before you impact on the ground. Man, that’s RIGHT on top of solid rock, too. Not even above the water.

Although really, you probably didn’t NEED to drop. The rope’s pretty long…

Nonetheless, Izumi joins you before long, the rope apparently having been weighed and secured down. Now, let’s see…

-----------

Wow. She wasn’t kidding when she said she had a trove. It’s not palatial, but it’s a pretty decent amount of artifacts and goods. You’d gotten the feeling that they weren’t really all that big on currency, but they DID use it.

And boy, there was a pretty decent amount of it here. Far more than you’d seen being used on your trip. Not to mention a few objects that were clearly artifacts of some sort. Scanning it all with the FutureSight, and all the estimates came out to:

> 12.55 Large Motes

Which, frankly, you could deal with. That was half the base pay right there! Not to mention there were also two strange weapons. Izumi had taken to testing both of them- turns out they were enchanted. One was a stark grey and gold-colored bow, and when an arrow, normal by all respects, was notched to it, the arrow seemed to glow a strange light...light arrows? When fired, they made a rather nice (and bright) explosion on the far wall. Neat.

The other, a dark purple and black katar, caused a strange, oily substance to secrete out of the edges, and when it struck something, the substance seemed to coalesce in on itself as it was flung from the weapon, seemingly winding through the air like a snake at speed before it splattered into the wall. Weird.

>Obtained Thunderlight Bow!
>Obtained Blightsnake Katar!

>>3502490
Nonetheless, you’d decided to take everything you could, and absconded ASAP. You had a head to present, and a long way to go to get there.

It’d been evening before you’d managed to make it back to the non-Kolm held lands, especially after stopping by the Prince and offering a writ of notification for Canaa’s bounty, and honestly, the area was already looking tons better. But sadly, you wouldn’t be able to make it by night. Hell, you might have to take most of the rest of the day tomorrow just traveling if you wanted to make it by NEXT night. You needed a place to stay…

Actually, on that front. “Hey, wanna go check in on those two Weavers?”

She blinks, looking at you in surprise. “I didn’t think you’d remember. Why not?”

It’s another hour or two of travel before you arrive at the small village; there’s still a few people out and about, but many are heading inwards, it seems. Packing up for the night. “Honestly, I think it’s good that we came,” Izumi mentions. “We’ll be the first to break the news!”

“Yeah, I’ll leave that to you,” you mention as you both set in. You can only guess that everyone present is still here for now; if only because you can see some tents in the distance, and what looks to be the beginning of some building going up.

“Very well, then! ATTENTION, ALL!” Wait, damnit, you didn’t mean right this second!

Nonetheless, you let her have her fun. To be honest, seeing the gaping maws, gasps and raucous cheers go up when you silently presented his head to everyone was kinda funny.

Of course, they’d offered hearth and home quickly; you’d just mentioned you were passing by and needed wherever to sleep. You’d accepted one person’s- an older man who’d had nothing much left to him and a bit of space to spare.

Right before, though, you’d looked around to find the duo of Weavers; you’d eventually been told that they were nearby; they’d taken to essentially squatting in an area just outside, where the ruins of an old building were. “So...you did it, huh?” Thyra seems vaguely unbelieving, even when the proof is right there. “That’s...hoo.”

“Zai will be on the back foot for some time because of this,” Yulieve mentions. “Possibly have to fend off more than one assassination attempt...unless…”

She looks to you, but you quickly wave her off. “Wasn’t paid for it. But I wouldn’t be surprised if she doesn’t make it to winter. Expect a change in leadership soon. I’d suggest looking further into that inn thing. Get yourself in the Alliance’s good graces real fast that way.”

Thyra gapes. “What inn thi- YULIEVE, YOU TOLD THEM?!” Yulieve just shrugs.

The night, otherwise, passes peacefully.

(CONT.)

>>3502525
-----------

“Oh...oh...I dared to hope, but in truth…” the old king sighs in relief as he hears of your deed. “I was uncertain. To think that this nightmare as it was is over…”

“Really, it was nothing,” Izumi says, and you have to restrain everything to give her a LOOK. “We were happy to do it. Now, with the cooperation of the races, you can perhaps look to a new future, with even the Blackweb less vindictive and duplicitous.”

He nods slowly, a gentle smile crossing his face. “That would be nice...ah, but I believe you are owed proper payment for such an accomplishment. A fine use of my coffers, I would say. Steward!” The man nods, and after some waiting, your payment- a hand carted wagon with many chests full- is pulled into the throne room. “Please, feel free to check…”

“It’s all there, it seems,” you say after you do just that, thanks to a bit of help from Sal. Even had a bit extra for the bounty bonus. Closing the last trunk with a resounding thud, you sigh in relief, Izumi smiling along with you.

You have quite the story when you get back. “Pleasure doing business with you.”

And that is the end of that.

JOB COMPLETE!

-PRIMARY SERVICE RENDERED- PRIMARY PAY DELIVERED IN FULL

-SUBTOTAL PAYMENT= 24 LARGE MOTES

-SECONDARY SERVICE RENDERED IN FULL- PAY DELIVERED IN FULL

-SECONDARY SERVICE PAY- 12.55 LARGE MOTES

-TERTIARY SERVICE RENDERED IN FULL- PAY DELIVERED IN FULL

-TERTIARY SERVICE PAY- 6 LARGE MOTES


TOTAL PAYMENT= 42.55 LARGE MOTES

(Finally. Stopping for tonight, but will try for a long run tomorrow.)

>>3502526
Good run Handler!
Damn what a haul. Got a ton of new sidearms too.

>>3502526
Nice job, boss! Good night!

>>3502526
Night, boss!

(Okay, maybe not IMMEDIATELY stopping...)

>AS FOR WHAT HAPPENED AFTER...

>Prince Fallon Emeral, of the Royal House of Emeral

>Prince returned home to jubilation and much acclaim. Though he didn't mask the efforts the two known as Yvrace and Hylinde went to to assist, he was given a great deal of credit, and soon became known as 'The Spring Prince' due to his powers with the Wild. He soon became King after his father's passing, and although his troubles were far from over, his alliance with most of the kinfolk races served him well, allowing for a great deal of stability for his time- save for the Ratkin Riots that erupted in the aftermath, resulting in the split of the Ratkin from the Alliance despite his best efforts.

>Braun of the Circle

>Braun and his daughter, who both survived, went back home and rebuilt. He had little to say about the whole situation, which is about what everyone expected. He DID, however, strike up an odd friendship with the Lizardkin, which led to increased trade...of a sort. Only the hardiest bears could withstand the smell and difficulty of traveling to Lizardkin lands. It thus became something of a rite of passage for the hardier Bearkin (or at least those that claimed as such).

>Za-Leil, Captain of the House

>Za-Leil was largely silent; as he felt he and his supported the cause well, but otherwise felt no need to share in glory. He returned to his position and protected the Royal House as before, in mostly silence and contentment. The little princess' interest in the combat arts, interestingly enough, did NOT wane with age, and in time he came to tutor her properly, later admitting that 'she is a good student. Eager, but good.'

>Thorumin Lux

>The victory over Lord Kolm was quickly found out by the Rabbitkin Council. Felgrund lost a great deal of political clout due to this, and Benediel Lux used the opportunity to stage a political coup of his own; inviting his father back to his rightful position. Thorumin refused, however, deciding that his son would be fine...although a bit of advising wouldn't go wrong. Odyssia Lux, for her part, had set out on what would ultimately prove to be a fool's errand; attempting her own campaign on Blackweb and shadow controlled lands further to the north. Her stunt forced her father to deny her a seat on the reformed council, for both his and her own protection. Stricken by this perceived betrayal, she and her retinue have since vanished, and both Father and his Veilspeaker searching with fevor whenever able.

cont.

>>3502566
>Norima, Watcher in the Dark

>Norima and her group returned home as well, much to her parents' delight. They'd gotten many reports in the time being, and were quick to agree that perhaps the future was not so readily divined, even by their foremost Speakers. The Veilspeakers came out of hiding, apologizing for their recalcitrance, and vowed to be more active in the new Alliance. Norima in particular, organizing search parties to aid in the Rabbitkin's recent issues, in which they can only see well one thing- that if she is not found before a certain time, either brother or sister will earn the title...of Kinslayer.

>Zatzil
>After Kolm's defeat, the murder of two of her top Ladies, and the betrayal of a third, Mistress Zai was indeed in hot water in terms of public opinion of the Blackweb, and Zatzil used that to full effect. Though she managed to retain power for six turbulent months, she was eventually struck down during an attempt to flee her estate- though she indeed took a great many Blackweb with her. Zatzil came into power as planned, though it was not without a great deal of suspicion, and she had to avoid several attempted daggers in the back herself. With the aid of Lipsa and Malis's support, however, she managed to solidify her hold on power, and mindful of the possibility of what might yet happen to her, she formally entered into a peace agreement with the Alliance. Zatzil's rule proved particularly lax yet paradigm shifting, exhorting the Blackweb to focus on putting their tendencies towards more mercantile and social pursuits than worrying about constant betrayal, and convinced a great number of the Blackweb to consider 'social conquering' and longer lasting and more thorough win over sheer martial might. This eventually led to the Blackweb becoming, if kept at arms length and constantly suspected, well-known in Alliance lands as some of the toughest and trickiest negotiators and business moguls to ever walk the kingdom. Zatzil personally fell into a life of relatively passive decadence, preferring to wile away the hours being tended to by good looking males to mate with and feasting on sweet meats when not having to deal with or implement policies 'suggested' to her by the Prince in formal 'conferences'.

>Thyra and Yulieve

>As suggested and desired, they were some of the first to seek asylum in Alliance lands, and eventually managed to, with the Prince's help, start up an inn in Dulwark. It eventually became something of a landmark, and well known for its 'sugar and spice' owner Thyra, who could be jovial and agreeable one second, and loud and belligerent the next, which brought no end of amusement to the patrons, at the expense of whatever poor sod managed to flip her switch. Yulieve assisted in managing the finances, and procuring many material deals for her friend. The two were recognized eventually as pioneers and examples of Blackweb industriousness in the face of adversity.

>>3502579

>Topi and Bechel

>Essentially missing all of the war, Topi and Bechel continued to hunt for The Destroyer, long after the war was over, convinced that it had simply taken to roost. How they managed to survive for close to a year, no one knows. Eventually, however, they came to the conclusion that The Destroyer was no more a threat, and soon after learned of the changes the Blackweb had gone through. Never one to fret too much, the two decided that the world was changing a great deal, and elected to see as much of it as they could, deciding that the adventuring life was indeed for them. While they'd never become world renowned, they eventually smartened up...a bit. Now they actually can escape perilous situations with more than just the clothes on their backs!

>Carrang

>Pardoned by the Prince, she was left adrift for some time after the vanishing of Yvrace and Hylinde, she remembered what they did more thoroughly than anyone else save the Prince, and was quick to tell anyone who'd listen. This eventually started to spiral out of control- her exhortations, combined with her visions, were eventually compiled into stories, and in years to come she would be considered the creator of what would be called the 'Hyvracian' legend; where a being of dark power and of great mercy split into two to end the great war. This further inspired what became known as 'Hiy-Yiv', a semi-religious philosophy that emphasized a dual nature in everyone: destructive passion and constructive passion, and that the best way to control oneself is to recognize and accept those passions and when to best put them both to use in day to day life. Astonishingly, this ended up helping a great deal of Shaded, allowing a decent number of them to function as semi-normal (if seen as incredibly emotionally volatile).

(Okay, I think that's it.)

>>3502593
What about goth girl and lizardkin kids from the ruined village?

>>3502593
Oh wow, a lot of things happened cause of this huh.

>tfw you accidently start a religion


Okay...

>>3502738
Well, it was a 'save the world' type of job. And the girls spent almost two months there - definitely a new record.

>>3502526
>-PRIMARY SERVICE RENDERED- PRIMARY PAY DELIVERED IN FULL
>-SECONDARY SERVICE RENDERED IN FULL- PAY DELIVERED IN FULL
>-TERTIARY SERVICE RENDERED IN FULL- PAY DELIVERED IN FULL
It brings a tear to my eye to see. We finally completed a secondary mission. And a tertiary as well.

>>3502768
>spent almost two months there
Shit, two months already? Time flies huh. No wonder sal got something for us during that amount of time

>>3502754
I wouldn't be surprised if this is but one of many we've left in our wake over the years.

>>3502832
remember time isn't 1:1 with the intersection. who know how long it's been over there.

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>>3502754
>mfw some legends/myths/religious stories in other worlds could have been outgoer shenanigans

>>3502593
Just wanna say I really like these little "results of your actions" posts. It's always interesting to see what our actions have caused, intended or not.

>>3502593
I really like these. It reminds me of the Fallout endings, letting us see the consequences of our choices.

>>3502995
>>3503153
Personally, I’d prefer the epilogue to be told through in-character dialogue, like with the Shining Hearts. Still, it’s a nice read, and it makes me hope we’ll be able to come back, especially if we can mess with Zatzil again.

“Welcome back, welcome baaaaaaack! Been waiting for you twoooooo!” Sal croons as soon as you flash back into HQ. “Seems like there’s biiiiiiig news all around, hmm?” You turn to see the entirety of SES gathered behind you two- Lorelei, Owlia, Cylica, Mono, Prima, and Jago- and all of them look confused. You can’t even get a word in edgewise before he starts talking. “Sooooo, first off! Congratulaaaaations, Miranda, Izumi, and Lorelei, for being such good workers and pillars of Silver Eye Soluuuutions!” He even claps primly, although you think it might actually be sincere praise. “Between your overall impressive job completion rates, the team’s expansion into multiple sources of iiiiiincome, and general outreach towards the public, my bosses have been quiiiiite pleased. In faaaaact- they want to talk to you personallyyyyyy.”

At THAT, you freeze, and you can’t stop your jaw from gaping a bit. You’ve never...EVER seen Sal’s bosses, SES’s owners. Not in all your years of being here. The newer folk don’t look as shocked, but Izumi and Lorelei clearly recognize the importance.

Sal either doesn’t notice the looks, or doesn’t care- likely the latter. “Soooooo, I want you all to warmly welcome my glorious superiors, the owners of Silver Eye Solutions...Ballicini, aaaaaand Nasfradeus!”

There’s a bright light, and for a brief, fleeting second, you feel like everything inside you is BOILING- as though every strand of hair, every synapse, every CELL is on fire, bubbling, about to slough off and strip you to nothing and it won’t ever stop ever ever stop PLEASE STOP ANYTHING PLEASE-

The only noise you can make is a tiny gasp when the light fades, as does the pain entirely, as quickly as it came, and...suddenly you can’t remember what you were just thinking for the past moment. Well, whatever. Not important.

But what is is the two liquid individuals in front of you. One of them looks like a small, squat...rat? No, more a possum? Something with a long, thin tail and slightly rattish, at least. About your height, He’s got squinted eyes, a cigar in his mouth, and he looks every inch the stereotypical mobster or business magnate. Hell, he even has one of those funny hats.

The other one is taller, probably intentionally. He...she...it...looks more like a statue come to life- you can’t tell ANYTHING specific about it, aside from the fact that it’s taller than Sal at rest, coming from its head is a number of tendrils to clearly serve as ‘hair’, and its eyes; a sharp, piercing yellow-on-black that nonetheless fortunately seems to be crinkled in good cheer.

There’s a brief silence before you remember who they are, and proceed to clap very quickly.

Fortunately, the others are quick to follow your lead.

(cont.)

The duo look to each other, chuckling, briefly, before the short one waves you off with a grin. “Nah, nah, cut it out, cut out youse mugs!” Wow, he’s even doing the accent. The clapping dies down as he continues speaking. “This ‘ere ain’t about us, it’s about youse! So feel good about yaselves, ya dig? Yooou been makin’ moves, good ones. Moves that’ve been makin’ motes, see? That’s good business. Real good business.” And here he starts pacing as he gesticulates. “Summa yas are new ta this burg, but yer real go-gettas. And that’s what we’s need in Silver Eye Solutions. Now look here. You’s should know- Ballicini believes in treatin’ earners right, nyeah? So here’s what we’s gonna do ya for. First off! ‘Zumi, Lori, dolls, get ovah here!”

The two quickly look at each other then scuttle over, both of them standing straight and even saluting- which frankly looked weird on Lorelei. “Now listen ‘ere. Sides Miss Mean Mug ovah here-” Hey… “-yous two been with us da longest. And while yous lot ‘ave had an issue here an’ there, you’ve cleaned it up real nice as of late. So we’s gonna give ya a lil’ incentive ta KEEP it that way, kay?” He then holds up an arm- and them stabs it into his own permeable gut, as though rooting around inside for something. “Now lesse here...aha! Here ya go, dolls, you best not break ‘em, yeah?” In his palm are two shiny, brand new FutureSights. “Got all the latest trimmins. Personalized dimensional camo, live updates for tech-head worlds, active GPS, picotechnology and, th’ works. Feel proud, ladies.”

The two take the tools with reverence and glee, in Lorelei’s case. “Eeeeee! Yeeees, finally! Can I hug you?!”

Ballicini snorts. “Like I’d say no ta a beautiful dame!” She actually glomps him for a second, his figure jiggling around for a moment as he pats her on the back before letting her go. “Now, now, this ain’t all, doll! We’s gots more ta say!”

“And I believe I’ll take it from here for a moment, if you don’t mind?” the other one asks. He’s more refined, much more ‘upper crust’. Ballicini merely responds with a casual wave and a puff from his cigar. “Excellent. Now then!"

(cont again- I prewrote this waaaaaay back so bear with me)

>>3503553
We’ve acquired a few...interesting contracts, and we’ve worked out a deal or two with some of the other businesses in The Intersection. They’ve agreed to providing resources, and possible new facilities for our burgeoning headquarters in exchange for certain tasks done for them. I cannot say what these tasks are, but I’ve been assured that they’ll never be particularly long; no more than a day’s effort at the worst. You are free to take them at your leisure, although should you wait TOO long to do any in particular, we will be...displeased.” You have to resist a shudder at that. “Of course, I have every confidence you’ll find the rewards worth the effort invested. As for the next topic of business- to touch on something my erstwhile associate mentioned...you two- the droids.”

“Yeh?” Jago, at least, seems not so intimidated. Prima just looks curious.

“You two have been idling about for a bit, although your...efforts at interaction have afforded some possibilities for us, for which you have my gratitude. Therefore, the next job Miranda goes on, I will have to insist on your presence.” Heeeey… “Normally I would not be so commanding, but I must admit curiosity as to your viability.”

“Wait, can anyone else go with ‘em?” Lorelei asks. Mono seems interested in the answer as well.

To that, Nasfredeus simply shrugs. “No concern of mine there. So long as they’re present. Any other questions?”

>Anything you dare to ask Ballicini and Nasfredeus?

>>3503557
>So, from what I’ve assumed about you, Silver Eye Solutions isn’t your primary business focus. Could you tell me a bit about what other industries you two are invested in?
>Actually, could you tell me how you two got into business with each other, and how SES was formed?

>>3503557
Can't think of anything, so I'll go with >>3503566

>>3503557
>I have a question...i heard... rumours. About a selectiin to be made should we worry about that? Also i'm fairly certain another dealmaker tried to coax a job out of me for a...should i say for a accident during my timely hours? If one dealmaker would be interested in dealling or offering jobs should i piont then to Sal or to you two?

>>3503566
An addition:
>So, how did Sal come into the picture?

>>3503593
This too.

Well, they're here, might as well pick their brains (or whatever they have in place of brains) a bit. Writing.

You guys think we should could ask him about the pulling rank bit to do investigation on the robots that try to charge or do barely legal stuff? Would that be something we should get involved or if he would rather we stayed down low and avoided trouble. Specialy since there will be a new selection fir a new dealmaker. Some people might try to cheat their way. Or other might just try to gather motes and hope that if they have enough quantities if motes they will mark then for selection.

Getting to see the owners was a nice surprise.
I didn't expect this at all, I thought Sal wanted us to hurry back just so he could throw us straight into another job.

>>3503557
this: >>3503566

>>3503611
Technicnacly this is another job. A job that the HIGHER UPS picked themselfs for US or at least the top three to get into solving as fast as we can. This is basicaly the upper managerment telling us to take care of the clients they got themselfs that is pretty big deal if you ask me.

>we’ve worked out a deal or two with some of the other businesses in The Intersection.

So who was the anon that was asking for more things to do on the intersection?

>>3503615
>Technicnacly this is another job
I don't mind that part. The quest is almost all about following Miranda as she goes on jobs to various worlds. What I expected was that Sal had found some random time-limited job that was about to expire and for some reason wanted us to complete.

>>3503609
So long as they can get the parts and maintaince without undue difficulty or cost, we don't need to go picking fights. And if we wanted to put a bug in someone's ear to get them investigated, Sal would be a better choice anyway.

>>3503557
>Are there any projections or overall business strategy that we're to follow?
>Any changes or adjustments to company policy, or new directions that employees should be encouraged to go in? Such as finding additional revenue streams while on a job?

>>3503557
>>3503566
>>3503582
>>3503593
>>3503598
>>3503612
No one else seems to have anything, so you end up clearing your throat- they don’t seem too surprised, looking at you evenly. “Well, if you don’t mind answering... from what I’ve assumed about you, Silver Eye Solutions isn’t your primary business focus, is it?”

Ballicini chortles a bit at that. “Naw, we gots a couple-a...guess youze could call ‘em fingers in different pies, see? We’s got influence over a couplea places. This joint, an eatin’ place- good seafood, actually, called Ilyyeria’s. S’on the east of the Eatery District, you should check it out!”

Wait. “Do we get a discount?”

Shrug. “Iunno, do ya? Go an’ see! Anyway, that, a couple party joints, a lil’ construction setup... Nassy ‘ere convinced me ta throw in wit’ sum kinda recreational art gallery deal- think that one’s on the list a things ta do, you’ll see.” But yeah, we’s diversified, y’know?”

“Oooh, cool!” Lorelei looks intrigued. Izumi simply nods as she takes it all in.

“Huh. Good to know,” you offer. “Gotta imagine you’ve been at this a while, right? How’d this all happen?”

Again, he laughs, jiggling in a way that makes you crosseyed if you focus on it too long. “Aha! Now that there’s a story what would take a minute. Suffice ta say that we figured might be betta what with our other little ventures ta get some good clout an’ income in. First couplea attempts didn’t go great, cause the peeps was putzes, but we eventually figured it out. Sal ‘ere was a late arrival, but you’ve earned yer keep so far, aintcha?”

“Ohoho, well, I’d like to think so!” Huh. No word stretching.

“Thatcha do! Now, afore we head off, gots a bit of a head up for ya. Nas?” He turns to his partner, who nods.

“Just a bit of a word of caution.” His voice is steel, if not quite intimidating. “There have been...rumors going about, tales that there’s a possibility of a...selection to be made. Very rare. We insist you not worry about it; and that’s for your own good. There may be some...clever actions being taken by rival institutions to vy for power and influence. You need not worry about that; that is our purview. Simply keep making motes, and things will work themselves out. Also, should anyone attempt to request your official services- for ANYTHING public facing- please make certain to include Sal in your negotiations. Understand? Miss Mono, Miss Prima, this will include any future...events that you’ll appear at.” the wolfgirl frowns at that, but snorts and nods. “I assure you, this really IS for your own protection. The whole thing should eventually die down, but for now, we feel this is just good business protection.”

(cont.)

>>3503667
“Now, beggin’ yer pardon, but we’s got places ta be! See ya in the funnies!” And with that, they all, Sal included, vanish, your head suddenly feeling like it was filled with water before and only now is draining- and as you glance around at the rest of the gathered, it seems like you aren’t the only one.

“Well...not what I was expecting on our return,” Izumi gripes. “Perhaps I’ll take a few days to recover…”

“Wait wait wait!” Owlia says quickly. “Before you do that, lemme mention something! I got things for you now!”

“Wait, things?” You blink. “What kinda things?”

“Inventions! And Sigils and stuff! Some of them are still a bit...experimental, but that’s where I’m hoping you guys come in!” Huh. Interesting. “So, I’ve got a couple rules, though, if you guys don’t mind…”

>Owlia’s R&B (Rentals and Borrows) is now available! Post incoming.

>>3503667
>We insist you not worry about it; and that’s for your own good. There may be some...clever actions being taken by rival institutions to vy for power and influence. You need not worry about that; that is our purview. Simply keep making motes, and things will work themselves out. Also, should anyone attempt to request your official services- for ANYTHING public facing- please make certain to include Sal in your negotiations.
This is good to hear, glad we sorted that out. I'm even more glad now that we didn't take that shady deal to get out of paying that other dealmaker.

What interesting characters...

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy!!

>>3503682
https://pastebin.com/Bg4jJzXr

(Wanted to post this in proper threads, but I figured it was a long enough post string as it was.)

"Well...that's good to know," you offer. Seems like Owlia finally figured some things out, and a few of those items WERE interesting looking, experimental or not.

“Yeah, no kiddin’,” Mono admits. “Didn’t think it’d be so set out like that.”

“Aha, preeeetty slick,” Lorelei preens. “Anyway, I’m thinking we pamper ourselves a bit, y'know? I got some stories to tell, and I'm sure you two do, too! Heck, let's make it an SES spa day!”

“Well, I must admit I would relish some time in a spa…” Izumi decides. Before you can voice your opinion, you notice something off to the side- a new digital screen on the wall near the break room. Huh. Stepping up to it, you notice that it has the names of a few companies or businesses around The Intersection, along with some tasks next to it. These must be those business deals... a moving job, that’s fine. A firearm exhibition show? Okay. An ACTING part in a MOVIE? Egh, maybe Lorelei or Mono could have that one… There’s a decent number of these.

>HQ Tasks are also available now! You can gain particular unique accoutrements for your HQ in exchange for doing these tasks, and depending on how well, or in some cases, the style in which you handle the request, you’ll get varying types of results.

“Interesting.” For now, though, you wanted to go home and sleep in a real goddamn bed. It’s been...hm. “How long have I been gone, again?”

Mono shrugs. “Like five days...I think.”

...yeah, you’re gonna go sleep.

...at least, you want to before your phone buzzes. Taking it out, you sigh.

‘Your charges from the Care House have been informed as to your return and will be turned over to you in one (1) cycle from now! We can’t wait to hear how their time with you goes!’

Oh yeah. Them.

>...y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice.
>I’m going to pass out for a while, so...rain check on that.
>Honestly, I want some real food. I’m going to head to that restaurant and see if we have a discount.
>Other

>>3503711
>...y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice.

>>3503711
>>...y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice.

>>3503711
>Honestly, I want some real food. I’m going to head to that restaurant and see if we have a discount.

>If you take an item labeled (Experimental), then PLEASE use it extensively
>Also it might explode if you overuse it, so yeah.
So Owlia has evolved from blowing herself up to making Miranda blow herself up on a mission. Progress!

And we should at least take the multiversal comms thing with us. We can just fiddle with it on downtime during the mission to provide Owlia some data to help her research.

>>3503711
>I’m going to pass out for a while, so...rain check on that.

>>3503711
>...y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice.

Whoever is going out next is definitely taking the experimental comms system.

>>3503711
>>...y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice.

The Multiversal Comms seems like a good experimental project to take along and test in missions. It doesn't need to be used in combat, so it's much safer to use with somewhat bulky Data Recorder whenever there's a chance to stop and talk. Although, I'd have to wonder how does it account for the difference in time flow rate when talking across different dimensions? I'd think messaging would work better.

>>3503711
>>...y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice.

>https://pastebin.com/Bg4jJzXr
Interesting. I really like the sound of the mana extractor. Hopefully with some work, we can keep the mana we extract. The healer, once refined, would be great for an escort or VIP protection job.
One thing that's a little unclear though. I looks like some of these run on their own power, and some on our mana?

>>HQ Tasks are also available now! You can gain particular unique accoutrements for your HQ in exchange for doing these tasks
Hey cool. It'll be nice to get a little more customization to the HQ. The major upgrades are so expensive, and don't add much personality, so this is great.

>>3503711
>..y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice
>>3503730
>Honestly, I want some real food. I’m going to head to that restaurant and see if we have a discount.
Bring everybody, we need a relaxing celebration.


Also, I really want to test the Multiversal Comms and operation Z1(will definitely be unstable as fuck) ASAP.

>>3503711
>Honestly, I want some real food. I’m going to head to that restaurant and see if we have a discount.
And right, those HQ Tasks.
Remember that they do have to get done, or Sal's bosses won't be happy.

>>3503762
The comms sound easy to test, but I'm not sure how much good talking to someone other than Sal on mission is. A text-based system would be a lot easier to get the timing for though, good idea.

We gon' spa it up!

Writing.

>>3503711
>>...y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice.

For the robo shakedown, I think it should just be 'randa and them. They need to be able to show off what they can do on their own.

>>3503711
>>3503715
>>3503718
>>3503761
>>3503762
>>3503764
>>3503766
>>3503780
The kids are nice enough, but dealing with them right after that long mission? Maybe a nap alone wouldn’t do it… “...y’know what, I’ll hop along with you guys. Spa sounds nice.”

“WOO! Spa day for the SES! Let’s go! I got just the place!” Before you realize it, everyone, bots included, are off to relax...in the Festival District.

It’s, blessedly, a good time; although you don’t normally do spas or this kind of luxuriating, you really kinda needed all this. The bots actually got services as well, even, the place Lorelei had in mind having a ‘mechanical needs’ area as well. While Cylica seems to be taking it all as ‘just another day’, Owlia seems pretty giddy, and Mono seems a bit embarrassed to all of this pampering.

Fortunately, there’s not a ton of shenanigans that take place- there’s some gossip, Lorelei insisting that at some point they go to a movie, and Mono inquiring about possible festivals to go to. For the most part, though, a massage, a soak, even a bit of haircare was provided, and all of it was highly welcomed.

You didn’t really care about the mani-pedi, but Lorelei insisted and you saw no reason to refuse.

Although the bill was… well, it wasn’t too much, at least. 2 Large Motes. Not much compared to your recent haul.

>Current Funds: 92.55 Large Motes

“Hoo...that was pretty damn nice,” Mono admits, shaking herself loose as you all walk out.

“It’s always good to take some you time,” Lorelei says sagely. “Refreshing yourself is important!”

“My joints have been lubricated to optimal levels, and I must admit, I enjoy the shine!” Prima jumps in.

“Gotta admit, was a nice toime,” Jago agrees. “Feelin’ nice an’ fresh!”

“So, I dunno about you all, but I’m gonna let this last for a bit. Maybe see if there’s anything neat going on around now,” Lorelei surmises. “What about you all?”

"I was considering checking in at the library, actually," Izumi says idly. "I know Delilah might be wondering where I've been."

"Owlia and I were considering taking in a show, actually," Cylica mentions. "There's a rather interesting movie play that's running called Serenity and Noise that she's been interested in."

Mono shrugs. "I was mebbe gonna go shoppin'. I need more clothes."

Prima seems to take a moment. "I was considering perhaps putting the spa's efforts to use. If we are to travel with you next assignment, Miss Miranda, then it would be prudent to improve my offensive measures. I was actually considering asking Mister Jago to accompany me in that respect."

"Ha, you wanna throw down with me? Sheila, wouldn't be happening to look fer some inspiration now, yeah?" If he could smile, you'd wager he'd have a smug grin on his face right now.

"I said 'considering', to be fair," she counters.

Well, for you…

>Anything to do before tomorrow?
>Join one of the others?
>"Nothing particular, just enjoy a bit of a ride around before heading home." (Move on to tomorrow.)

>>3503928
>Anything to do before tomorrow?
Donate Lizardkin books to the library
Show Cylica and Owlia 'Spirit Orb', manastone weapons and elemental stones
Suggest team training schedule for newbies
>Join one of the others?
See to bots' training

>>3503943
Pretty much this, minus the books instantly being given over to the library. First, we need to copy the pages for our own use. Can the FutureSight be used like a Kindle?

Gonna take a breather for a while. I'll try to update at least once later.

We can look up some ideas from Q&A thread in the meantime.

>>3503966
Like creating a community chest/armory with same rules as Rental&Borrows and getting the actual official item list.

>>3503928
First...
>Join one of the others?
Train with Prima and Jago, look into rounding out their equipment afterwards. Then...
>Anything to do before tomorrow?
Hire someone to fix the helmet we got off of Ferrah, figure out who to see to make an enchanted hooded cloak from the drider-silk we got from the Veilspinners, and test out that Shu-Rith thing.

Actually, since we still have the cash, should we look into getting a bigger apartment? One large enough for the kids to get a room to themselves?

Seems like training with the bots is the most agreed upon thing. Then maybe stop by the nerds and drop the books off at the library.

>>3504117
We could, though even if we find and rent one now it won't be ready for tomorrow's visit. But I am curious what's on the offer.

>>3504117
We've talked about this. There isn't really a point to getting a larger apartment. It would cost more rent, we aren't home enough for it to matter, and we don't need the space. If we do decide to have the kids over, they can spread out in the avaliable space.

>>3504240
Yep. I'd rather spend the cash on some higher end mission gear. Plus we need to replace the C4 we used. It was well spent, but it sounds like we cleaned ourselves out.

>>3503943
>>3503956
>>3504036
“I’ve got a couple errands I eventually need to run, but if you two are going to train, then it’s probably a good idea for me to be there with you,” you decide. If nothing else, it’ll let you get a feel for what would be better for the both of them in terms of job style. “You’re off now?”

“Well, shortly, yes,” Prima confirms. “Our own base of operations is...not quite suitable yet, though I understand that can change with sufficient funding. So we must utilize the Outgoer Training Clinic.”

“Makes sense enough,” you decide. “Lead the way.”

After arriving, something comes to you... considering that they’re SUPPOSED to be fightbots, from what you’ve been told, and Lorelei is supposed to be particularly support-focused, maybe it’d be a better idea to direct this training session to be something a bit more specific with the virtual training rooms...

> ...on second thought, general combat is fine. They need to be certain of how to handle themselves, after all. You might even go a bit with them, although you’ll be keeping it light.
>They seem like they’d be good at smash and grabs and certain types of infiltration like that. Maybe have them work at that.
>Prima’s supposed to be good with observation and data gathering and whatnot, right? Maybe something more tech-heavy. A package that needs to be retrieved or the sort.
>Other

>>3504288
>Prima’s supposed to be good with observation and data gathering and whatnot, right? Maybe something more tech-heavy. A package that needs to be retrieved or the sort.

>>3504288
>>Prima’s supposed to be good with observation and data gathering and whatnot, right? Maybe something more tech-heavy. A package that needs to be retrieved or the sort.
I don't think infiltration is really where they'll shine. They are both /fighting/ bots, after all. But they're not really setup for long term straight fighting either. In time, as they gain experience (and upgrades) they could transition to more of a slugging setup.

>>3504288
> ...on second thought, general combat is fine. They need to be certain of how to handle themselves, after all. You might even go a bit with them, although you’ll be keeping it light.
I think that combat experience is the thing that they're lacking the most. Also it would be good idea to show them what we ourselves can do before the job.

>>3504288
>Prima’s supposed to be good with observation and data gathering and whatnot, right? Maybe something more tech-heavy. A package that needs to be retrieved or the sort.
I think we should go for min-maxing instead of being well-rounded.

>>3504288
>> ...on second thought, general combat is fine. They need to be certain of how to handle themselves, after all. You might even go a bit with them, although you’ll be keeping it light.
Combat training is always useful, and it's what they were built for.

>>3503943
Do we have copies of the books in some capacity? I'm not wanting to lose out on a resource.
>>3503956
I'm with this guy

>>3504352
Go to get a drink and it's half an hour later all of a sudden. Maybe I should head to bed.
>>3504288
>Prima’s supposed to be good with observation and data gathering and whatnot, right? Maybe something more tech-heavy. A package that needs to be retrieved or the sort.

>>3504315
>>3504320
>>3504328
>>3504363

Let's see how well they work with tactical insertions and target retrieval.

Roll 2d100, best of 3.

Rolled 47, 100 = 147 (2d100)

>>3504364

Rolled 47, 50 = 97 (2d100)

>>3504352
We're donating it to a public library, so I assumed that the books would be available later on for public use. Nothing wrong with making copies for ourselves though.

>>3504364
Uh, can this vote count since we're not on errands yet?

>>3504368
Pardon? Which vote?

>>3504367
Impressive.

>>3504389
*his vote >>3504352

Rolled 17, 37 = 54 (2d100)

>>3504364

Prima has to adjust a few things. Jago is primed and ready.

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951 KB JPG

>>3504389
The reason I'm asking is that during Q&A you said that scheduling group training would require more anons supporting this idea.

>>3504444
I mean, that still applies, I was just making sure I knew what you were talking about outright.

>>3504448
Yeah, sorry, my mistake. Couldn't delete and correct that post because of the roll.

File: Styles - Incoming Impact.jpg (3.57 MB, 3840x2160)

3.57 MB JPG

Have another, Handler.

How has the new place been treating you?

>>3504288
>>3504315
>>3504320
>>3504328
>>3504363
“Before you two start, I was thinking we’d change things up a bit. Instead of just beating on each other, it might be a good idea to work to your strengths a bit more.” With them looking at you in curiosity, you beckon them forwards. “Follow me.”

You quickly explain to them the basics behind the chambers, to which they get the idea almost immediately, thank goodness. And then you tell them the gameplan. “I want to see what you both can do as a unit. So what’s going to happen here is that you’re going to take on an objective. There’s data of high importance you need to get out of this building. It’s on the seventh floor, and the place is highly guarded, with motion sensors, foot patrols, and various locked areas. It’ll be up to you to figure out how to get in, retrieve the data, and get out. Understand?”

“Of course!” Prima says quickly. “This is not unlike a task I was requested to perform when I first met Ms. Lorelei.”

Jago nods in agreement. “Yeh, we’ll be fine! Let’s have at it!”

“Right, then. Good luck in there. I’ll keep it basic for now.” So no reinforcements, nothing too harsh on them.

To your pleasant surprise, it goes...well enough. Prima seems to have some particular issues; she seems to take some time to decide on a course of action by herself, which leads to her nearly getting caught several times- certainly puts the place on guard and hunting, ratcheting up the difficulty. The other unfortunate issue is her general missteps- clearly she’s expecting some things to happen that don’t. Likely comparing past data and making an estimate that just isn’t viable, which causes the both of them to get turned around more than once, extending the time of the mission. She comes through in the clutch, shutting down the camera network and downloading the data with impressive speed, but otherwise her indecision and bad data cause a few hardships.

Fortunately for her, Jago must’ve been inwardly looking to prove himself, because he managed to drag them both out of every issue that she accidentally started; disabling and incapacitating guards (not killing them, you notice), securing a reasonable ingress point (that Prima did identify, to be fair) and defending the area while she downloaded the data, and was clearly the vanguard for their exfiltration attempt. He’d taken advantage of the blindness and led the defenders on a merry chase until it was far too late, and circled back around to finish the job- if by smashing through a number of walls until they were out of the building. A bit...high profile, but certainly workable.

(cont.)

>>3504651
By the end of it, they had the data well in hand, and despite a few (virtual) bumps and bruises, they’d come out of it fairly well. You had to applaud that, even as you gave them the formal critique. Prima seemed a bit chagrined, but Jago, of course…

“See, lass? And yer always tearin’ at me! Well, lemme tell ya, Jago knows what’s what come game time, yeah? You stick with me, we’ll be apples, fer sure!” Well. Here’s hoping you don’t have to check his head part for any expansion any time soon. Prima seems...distraught. A bit angry. Maybe a bit impressed? You’re not great at reading lipless robot expressions- need to work on that.

“Well, perhaps I...may require some additional data to-to compare against past performances.” She only squeaks briefly when Jago wraps an arm around her shoulders.

“Don’tcha worry! I’ll tells ya everythin’ I know!” he says with a guffaw.

“Please do not,” she mutters. He eagerly ignores her.

(Done for tonight. Will try to update during the week.)

>>3504558
Pretty well, when it's quiet. Awesome stuff as usual!

>>3504652
Thanks for running. Good to see Jago have a chance to shine.

Compare the data on a computer and then go to a bar together

>>3504651
> When the shadowrun goes loud

>>3504652
I'm proud of Jago if for no other reason than his chosen exit strategy.

File: 1551775641161.jpg (527 KB, 1080x1382)

527 KB JPG

>>3504652
Fucking Jago, man, I swear.

>>3504652
After some discussion on possible training times; namely, something along the lines of a general debrief wherein you could suggest possible new tactics or improvements, you eventually elect to move on- you’ve got a book or two you need to deposit. Although…

Could you keep the info in your FutureSight? Hmm...there’s a ‘scanning’ app here…just need to figure out how to use it…

After some walking and muttering to yourself (with the bots following and occasionally chiming in), you finally manage to figure out a ‘text scanning’ application. Huh. Can scan a book in an instant, apparently, provided it takes the measure of the book first. You decide to test it out on one- you have to line it up just right and...take a picture? Neat. Judging from the ‘in-progress’ diagrams, seems like it detects how thick the book is, the page material, and the actual text substance, and kinda makes judgements on how thick the book is, how many pages there are, and then just kinda separates the pages out by determining position? Complicated, but very neat. Likely extremely useful in the future, too.

The other two books are scanned shortly, and from there you make your way to the library. Although you’re not entirely certain who to talk to for this whole book bounty thing. The front desk has a ‘be back soon!’ note on it. Izumi’s probably around here somewhere, though...

It’s a few minutes of wandering later when you finally see someone you recognize around the border of the fiction section; Delilah’s busy stocking shelves, high up on a floating platform. Curiously, she seems to be stocking metallic cylinders of something as opposed to actual books, having their own massive section even- ‘Performances’. Careful to try to not startle her, you clear your throat. “Pardon me. Delilah, right?”

“Ah! Y-yes, just a moment!” She seems a bit busy; there’s a LOT of cylinders. “I’ll be right down!”

“No need- I’m just wondering what to do with these books I have- you said to bring any in if I found them, but…” You shrug even though she can’t see it.

“Oh, really? Thank you! I-I mean, it helps me AND you if you give them straight to me, since I get something out of it, too! Just, uh, let me finish sorting these…” Hm.

>You’ve got places to be; you’ll just leave them here.
>Ask about what those cylinders even ARE- you might’ve only been in here sparingly, but you haven’t seen those before.
>Might as well browse a bit while she does her job. Might be worth having some entertainment on longer missions…
>Other

Evening, boss. How's life treating you?

I do have a question about Zatzil's weapons, namely who got them, Miranda or Izumi?

>>3512657
>>Might as well browse a bit while she does her job. Might be worth having some entertainment on longer missions…
Ask her if she has any downloadable books we could put on the FutureSight.

>>3512657
>>Ask about what those cylinders even ARE- you might’ve only been in here sparingly, but you haven’t seen those before.
Some sorta digital media maybe?


Good to see you.

>>3512657
>Ask about what those cylinders even ARE- you might’ve only been in here sparingly, but you haven’t seen those before.
Suppose we have some time to burn before the inevitable night out on the piss, and nothing glaring to take care of right now

>>3512657
>Ask about what those cylinders even ARE- you might’ve only been in here sparingly, but you haven’t seen those before.

>>3512681
Personally, I'm fine with Izumi having these enchanted weapons - Miranda hoarded like ten or something melee weapons and some other goodies on that mission, while all that Izumi got were some hand-me-downs from Miranda.

>>3512764
After what happened last time we got sloshed, I don't think we're in a hurry to try it again. Especially with Sal's bosses warning.

>>3512808
Not to mention the pricey bill for damages. Maybe just a movie night would do?

>>3512806
I'd kinda like Miranda to keep the Katar, seeing as she's more punch based, and I don't know how Izumi would feel about using something that can launch magical shadows. Maybe trade Winnower for it?

Also, speaking of trading stuff, we should give Lorelei Venom-Tongue as a souvenir. She needs to practice her melee skills a bit, and the weapon kind of fits her.

Also, boss, are you going to add in the new weapon descriptions to the pastebin?

>>3512808
>HEY EVERYONE MIRANDA SAYS SHE CAN KICK YOUR BUTT

>Miranda: ...........

Everytime.....

>>3512657
>Ask about what those cylinders even ARE- you might’ve only been in here sparingly, but you haven’t seen those before.


Also I have a list of things to do for Miranda and co:
>check on HQ tasks and maybe assign some to fellow co-workers
>Maybe upgrade HQ
>arrange a combat/outgoer training schedule in our HQ for newbies. i.e. Randa/Zumi lecture on weapons or physical stuff and thief/sneaky class with Lori.
>Get our weapon loot treated, don't want them to get absorbed into us.
>Search for a short d-rank mission for the robots

>>3512681
Fine. Tired- it's jus the one tonight.

Miranda has them. Izumi could be given them, however.

>>3512851
So sure. Would have to be a formal vote, though. And yes- tomorrow. (This is a reminder.)

>>3512882
Supporting the write-ins, plus we need to restock on Moleworm mines and C4 bricks. Though I think we can choose a job of higher rank, since the deal was that they are going on OUR mission, not us supervising/babysitting them.

>>3512925
I know that this dsy is not over yet and we've got to look after the kids tomorrow, but it feels like we never make big plans on how to spend time in the Intersection, just waiting for Handler to offer the next 'what to do today' option. So I think it'd be better to lock this plan in now.

>>3512657
>Ask about what those cylinders even ARE- you might’ve only been in here sparingly, but you haven’t seen those before.

>>3512657
>Ask about what those cylinders even ARE- you might’ve only been in here sparingly, but you haven’t seen those before.

>>3512897
What kind of job Sal offers now? I'm excited for the new job.

>>3512657
>>3512711
>>3512764
>>3512806
>>3512882
>>3513114
>>3513120
Well, might as well sate your curiosity. “So, what are those you’re putting up? They look new.”

“Oh, well, uh, they’re, uh, kinda actually related to the book drive! See, see, what we’re doing is taking the descriptions of the books, and we’re recreating the events as best we can using a combination of technology and magic to allow for, well, portable recreations in minature!” Huh. She sounds excited, at least. “It’s really fascinating! I, uh, don’t really know the details for how it works, though…but all of these cylinders are supposed to be recreations of all the books’ history! Not all of them are going to get this treatment, though...”

“Oh, that’s rather fascinating!” Prima chimes in. “So there’s a more visual and tactile element to the records instead of just text now! It could help a number of different kinds of individuals, I imagine!”

“Sure, what she said.” Well, if you don’t have anything to contribute, Jago…

“I think it’s pretty neat!” She agrees. Before much longer, she’s finished, and quickly pilots her platform down. “Alright, just come with me!”

The process is quick enough once you get to the desk; the three books are each priced at 50 small motes (thank you, Friend and Family bonus), so, hey, 1.5 more is 1.5 more.

Honestly, you’re kinda flush for cash at the moment. Not that it’ll last forever, but...might be time to see what else you can do with it in that case. There’s a few things you can think of- just a matter of what takes priority.

>See about these ‘HQ Tasks’ first. They sound interesting, and useful.
>You might as well see about treating one or more of your weapons- you’re out here, so why not?
>Considering the kids are coming tomorrow, maybe you could pick up a couple of things for them? Besides weapons, that is.
>Other

>>3514342
>See about these ‘HQ Tasks’ first. They sound interesting, and useful.

>>3514342
>See about these ‘HQ Tasks’ first. They sound interesting, and useful.

On the next day:
>You might as well see about treating one or more of your weapons- you’re out here, so why not?
>Considering the kids are coming tomorrow, maybe you could pick up a couple of things for them? Besides weapons, that is.(more simulation training yey)

>>3514342
>You might as well see about treating one or more of your weapons- you’re out here, so why not?

We can check HQ tasks after we're finished ensuring our new loot doesn't fade away on us, and we can teach the kids tomorrow about how equipment effects their appearance on a mission by taking them out to buy a piece or two for a lesson.

Evening, boss. You doing alright?

>>3514342
>See about these ‘HQ Tasks’ first. They sound interesting, and useful.

>>3514342
>>You might as well see about treating one or more of your weapons- you’re out here, so why not?
We're already out running errands..

>>3514342
>See about these ‘HQ Tasks’ first. They sound interesting, and useful.
Sal's bosses said that they would be very unhappy if we didn't get all of these tasks done.

>>3514380
>ensuring new loot doesn't fade away on us
Where is this coming from? And what weapons you had in mind for stats treatment?

Looking into the HQ Tasks it is! Writing.

>>3514408
I thought it was mentioned in #29, but that only mentions the place we went to. Anyway, from what I remember, our magic loot won't fade away for a while, and our mundane weapons are safe.

For treatment, I was thinking the Red Sun Gauntlets, the Blacksnake Katar, and while we were there, getting someone to fix up Ferrah's Helmet and Khaom's NotBusterSword, or commissioning someone to make a nice cloak from the Veilspinner's silk we got, or perhaps an armband utilizing the feather we got from Va-Shi.

>>3514448
From what I remember the loot attunes to the Intersection and gains pemranence treatment by itself after a long period of time, and treatment services are used to get an instant result and there was some special case with high tech stuff.
I think it would be better to ask Handler to remind us how this actually works.

>>3514455
When the loot attunes to the intersection it turns into motes I thought.

>>3514455
You got it backwards. After some time the items we get from other worlds become like the clothing we have: they turn into a different similar object in whatever new universe we arrive on.

>>3514448
>For treatment, I was thinking....
Hold on right there. The treatment costs a decent ammount of Lotes and other than the gauntlets(maybe), we don't know if the weapons are worth it. We should give them a test run in our training room before we decide to treat them.

>>3514342
>>3514354
>>3514365
>>3514383
>>3514402

Well, most of this can wait, since it’s on your own time, but those tasks had an undercurrent of...well, not ‘urgency’, but certainly ‘priority. Might as well take a look. Parting with Prima and Jago for now, you head back to HQ. You can hear the grunting of someone in the training area, but you’re focused on the obvious addition- the bright neon-blue holographic board. When you look at the newly-added board, the first thing you notice is that these tasks aren’t actually ‘paid’, perse. Rather, the rewards seem to ONLY be certain additions for your HQ. Well...guess that makes sense. Would’ve liked to be paid, though…

>Client: Spark North (Hardware and Software)
>Request Type: Labor
>Summary: These folks are movin’ locales, and we said that one or two-a you might be amendable ta helpin’ out! Now, this stuff is FRAGILE, so watch it! Anything breaks, it comes outta YOUR hide!
>Reward: Limited Server Database Access- (Physical Combat Training Area- AI Dummies Upgrade)

>Client: Redline (Vehicles and Accessories- Outgoer Focused)
>Request Type: Showcase
>Summary: Tankloud’s lookin’ for some folks ta show off their ride in a combat sim. Wanna prove that they’ve got good stuff. Means ya have to take some lumps, though, so hope you’re not afraid of a lil’ brusin an’ rough road.
>Reward: Reinforced armor plating on any vehicle of choice.

>Client: Everstyle Entertainment (Entertainment Media)
>Request Type: Exhibition
>Summary: So these guys are filmin’ a new ‘Nightmare Run’ flick- if ya never heard of it, it’s a horror series ‘bout a group of people what gotta take part in ‘death races’ across the galaxy. They’re lookin’ for extras to shoot a couplea scenes on, peeps with authentic fightin’ experience. I suggested that one-a you might be up to tha task. Just don’t try ta steal the spotlight- or maybe do! Ha!
>Reward: You Get To Be In A Major Intersection Motion Picture. Also a free upgrade to the Break Room

>Client: Minus-One (Firearms)
>Request Type: Showcase
>Summary: Minus One wants one of you to show up and help show off their latest suite of experimental superheated plasma weapons. Sounds simple, yeah? Just take their gear, coo over it a bit, then starting shooting things until they say stop. Easy. I think.
>Reward: Minus-One brand Weapons Storage System, Pick of Single Minus-One Brand Weapon.

>Client: Johnson and Nema Interactive Art Installations
>Request Type: Exhibition
>Summary: Yeeahhh...so, I’m not entirely certain. But they want help before openin’ their ‘Interactive Art House’ to make sure that everything’s...solvable? Whatever, just get ova there when ya can and jump through a few hoops for ‘em. They said they’d give your place a nice coat a’ paint and a bit more besides if ya do, so good luck.
>Reward: Custom (Minor) Room Installation

...Hm. At least there aren't a ton of them right now...

>>3514477
>Client: Redline (Vehicles and Accessories- Outgoer Focused)
>Request Type: Showcase
One of the skylanders could go there

>Client: Minus-One (Firearms)
>Request Type: Showcase
That's a task for Izumi

Client: Johnson and Nema Interactive Art Installations
>Request Type: Exhibition
And this one is for Lori


So how does treatment work after all?

>>3514455
I'm pretty sure the loot only attunes to us and gives bonuses or penalties to our unmodified Stats, but fades into nothing after that happens, but like you say, Handler's the best to ask.

It would be kind of cool to learn new spells or techniques by having them attune to us, though. We could learn how to fire off thunderbolts if we let the Thunderlight Bow stick around long enough...

>>3514477
>Client: Everstyle Entertainment (Entertainment Media)
We get to be in a Not!Italian Mad Max knock off movie? Fuck yes, going with this.

Also, see if we can get our own copy to watch for crappy movie night.

>>3514492
...wait, how did I combine two different jobs into one?

Well, since we won't be the new Furiosa anytime soon...
>Client: Minus-One (Firearms)

Attunement/Treatment is as >>3514472 said. You can use them as they are for a certain amount of time, but after said time they 'lose' their intrinsic properties and will go towards affecting your appearance and grant passives as opposed to having active abilities.

Just as a general example: Were the Bearkin Gauntlets allowed to Attune, they'd grant you a massive bonus to Intimidation, a minor one to Otherwordly, and would have a passive of 'Nature', which would influence your healing abilities and anything to do with nature magic or wilderness. You'd lose the restoration ability, however, and they wouldn't actually have any defensive properties anymore.

Treating them locks in their properties as is.

>>3514508
Do you have a list of possible passive abilities and their effects on you? I need it for reasons...

Statting reasons...

>>3514477
>Client: Spark North (Hardware and Software)
Miranda or Izumi. I wouldn't trust fragile things to Lori, Jago, or Prima.

>Client: Redline
Owlia

>Client: Everstyle Entertainment
Lorelei and Mono

>Client: Minus-One
I would actually say Mono, because she's actually really good with energy weapons, and can play to a crowd from her actress training.
Izumi would be a close second because of her vast weapon knowledge, so she could be the gun geek girl.

>Client: Johnson and Nema Interactive Art Installations
Prima, Owlia, Cylica.

>>3514529
>actually really good with energy weapons
It was said that she's decent with them in comparison to handling other weapons, and I don't think she'd be able to properly advertise them.

>>3514505
You guys don't have to assign them all out at once (or at all if you're feeling greedy/bold).

Focus on a task for Miranda for now.

>>3514525
A couple, but I'll admit several are unique to the piece of clothing. Meaning I come up with it as I go.

>>3514477
>Client: Everstyle Entertainment (Entertainment Media)
>Request Type: Exhibition
Who doesn't want to see an action movie with a magical girl stunt double doing corkscrew kicks through spaceship windows? Miranda could pull off some Bruce Lee shit ezpz

>>3514477
>Client: Everstyle Entertainment (Entertainment Media)
>Request Type: Exhibition
Go with this one for Miranda.

>>3514537
>Client: Spark North (Hardware and Software)
Then choosing this for Miranda.

Movies aren't normally your bag, but...seems simple enough. Just punch people, right? You can do that.

Writing!

>>3514477
>>3514550
>>3514551
Well...all things considered, the rest of them strike you more as things that the others would do better- guns, the driving bit, all that. Moving, maybe, but that’s just...dull. On the other hand...well, you’ve done faux fighting before. In front of a audience, even. This is just plus a camera. Hopefully.

Pressing the ‘accepted’ button just below it, you’re quickly given instructions on where to go- the studio’s in the Festival District, unsurprisingly. Not too hard to figure out. Hopefully, this will be a decent thing to end the day on if it drags on too long…

“Silver Eye? Ah, you must be our emergency stand-in!” The fairy (human-sized) at the counter is visibly relieved at your appearance, wings drooping in relaxation. “Not a problem, I’ll contact the director and get you back to wardrobe immediately! He’ll go over the specifics of the role with you then, okay?”

The direction himself is a creature that reminds you of a bipedal cheetah with spinal ridges. “Right, right, right, your name?”

Sounds in a heck of a hurry, too. “Miranda Styles.”

“Gotcha, follow me!” You do so, as he continues speaking as quickly as possible. “Okay so, you’re here because we need someone to take over for the instigator of the big bar brawl scene. You don’t got but five lines, so don’t worry about that much; what’s important is that you just need to hit your marks, alright? Your boss said you were good at fightin’ right?” You nod. “Great, then you better not be exaggerating, ‘cause we’re throwing you into the deep end, here. We’re gonna get you through the basics and then we’re rolling!”

Soon, you arrive at a holo/real prop studio floor, currently designed to look like the inside of a dingy, run down bar. It’s got a bit too much neon, but old-timey beer bottles, bigger glasses, metal chairs, pool tables, and a number of other accoutrements- one of the biggest you notice is the skull of some kinda animal that...what is that, a hammerhead shark thing? Whatever, it’s wide-headed, that’s all you can tell. But it’s real, and sitting right above a massive digital music setup. That, there’s a guitar, and-

“Okay, so!” He hands you a sheet- the script, from what you can tell. “These are your lines and your actions. We’ll give ya some time to go over ‘em while Lucretia here gets you dressed up.” You quickly look back up to see that you’re in a dressing up, with a massive, four-armed, blue alien with large lips (and hips), holding both a pair of clothes and some hair devices in her hand. She looks you over, giving a ‘hm’ of consideration. “Well, she has the general outfit asthetic already, so that’s a plus. She shouldn’t feel too odd in what we have in mind. Now, we’ll need to make some alterations, but I can work with this.”

As she approaches, you grit your teeth, already wondering if perhaps this wasn’t the best idea. “Please don’t cut my hair.”

“No promises, sorry!” Crap. Well, while she’s fussing about, might as well go over the script…

>>3514737
>Remember, HQ Tasks are largely dependant on both substance AND style, with consideration to the task at hand. Accomplish something in a sufficiently stylish or attention-getting manner, and you might see a bit extra from them!

Hm. The lines are simple enough, ignoring any interspersed dialogue from other characters:

> “You the guy my boss sent? Thought you’d be taller. C’mon, follow me.”

> “You’re cheating, but I’ll let it slide.”

> “Because I win this hand anyway.”

> “Oh? Well maybe you should go cry to that little battish girl you keep eying in-”

And from there apparently you’re supposed to get punched, get up, and leap at him. The fight itself doesn’t center on you- from what you can tell, this guy named ‘Draken’ is the lead character (or at least he is for this scene) and most of the fight revolves around him. You DO get the honor of fighting off seven guys and one more line-

> “Think we got all of ‘em...”

-before you get promptly grabbed and tossed out of a window. It’s that kinda film, apparently.

“Alright, so, if you got any questions that can’t be answered by the set, now’s the time to ask ‘em! I ain’t got a lotta time!” he insists.

>Any questions?

>>3514738
>"Can the reward include a copy of the movie?"

Calling it done for tonight. 'Shooting' will happen tomorrow!

>>3514738
Oh, yeah, also...
>"Is obvious magic allowed, or should I keep it purely physical?"
>"Would you prefer fisticuffs, or can I go buck wild with the props?"
>"Mind if I request a prop?" (prop switchblade, one that could withstand stabbing into the card table)

>>3514738
>>3514750
Everything but the prop switchblade. I want to know if the chairs are the break-apart kind, or if the other actors are sturdy enough to just shrug off breaking a chair over their head. That kind of stuff.

>>3514738
Don't know Intersection has a movie industry.
>>3514742
Supporting.

>>3514738
I'm with this guy >>3514761
It would be a shame if our 'acting' would cause a need in more emergency stand-ins.

>>3514742
>>3514750
Damn it, one more...
>”Who exactly is throwing me out the window? I need to coordinate with them on how we’ll pull it off.”

>>3514787
This too actually.

>>3514738
>?
Is the fighting choreographed or are we freestyling? How sturdy are the other actors? How sturdy are the props and the set? Anything you don't want me doing?

>>3514738
Can i tall with the coreography director? I would hate to lose more of your time because i wasn't coordinated with the rest of the stunt actors

>>3514738
>>3514750
>>3514761
>>3514786
>>3514787
>>3514818
>>3514827
>>3514929
Well, there’s a couple, just for safety’s sake. “We’re keeping this to physical only, no magic? Or am I allowed to use magic?”

“No magic,” he immediately responds. “At least, nothing obvious. You think you can save us motes with some high flying, by all means.”

“It won’t be THAT much,” you insist. “Can I use props?”

“Yeah, since we’re behind schedule, we’re letting you freestyle a bit. Don’t worry, all these guys are trained, you just have to make sure they land at their marks- we’ve designated them with yellow squares, can’t miss ‘em.” Ugh, she IS messing with your hair- damnit; you like your pigtails. She’s at least trying to not destroy the hair length, though…too much.

“So everything’s breakable?” You continue.

“Mostly. Only things that aren’t are the actual bar areas, but tables, chairs, all that? You’re not the only one who’s gonna be breakin’ a chair over someone’s head if you go for that.” Ah, good. “Speaking of, that reminds me; you check the latter half of the scene? There’s a part where we need you NOT in the shot. The stunt with the pool table.” Oh yeah, you noticed that, he breaks the table’s legs and pool balls go everywhere- hell, you don’t think you could imitate that. “We’ll give you a mark to hit.”

Fair enough. “Alright, then. Speaking of, when I get thrown, who’s doing that? Probably a good idea to coordinate with them a bit…”

He nods. “Right, that’s Letch, he’s our big villain of the piece. Nice guy, don’t worry. Big fella, you’ll be able to talk a bit before we start rollin’.” Ugh, wait, there goes your jacket and clothes. “You’re lucky we got stuff in your size. Put a lil’ more crease in her cheeks.” That last bit is at Lucretia, who dabs some...stuff...under your eyes and around your cheeks. “There we are, that’s our Silva!” When you look into the mirror given, you find a sharper-faced you staring back- there’s surprisingly little done else, aside from looking slightly older and your hair taken from its pigtails and (cut! argh…) put into something that seems ‘intentionally messy’ and rough. You’ve got a damn bang hanging over one eye. Hate that.

Not that the director seems to care. “Now, let’s get you into your new threads and get you out there!”

Yay.

(cont.)

>>3515716
What you’re eventually put in is something that seems to be a cross between a formal three piece and a biker outfit, with a stiff leather jacket, vest, and shirt, along with thick boots and straightened pants. You’re given a gold watch as an accessory; you managed to beg off the earrings, though. Those just wouldn’t make sense. Fortunately, they gave in on that quickly enough, and you’re marched out to the set, where a number of the other actors are milling around. Most of them look big and rough, for certain. Should be able to take a few lumps. “Okay, folks! This is our stand-in for Jassi; her name’s Miranda Styles, treat ‘er well! She’s an Outgoer, which means she’s an old hand at fightin’, so congrats, everyone who’s in Jassi’s scenes, means you get to improv a bit. We ain’t got time to re-run through the choreography anyway, so just make sure you hit your marks!” Sure enough, you can see several yellow squares lit up on the floor, as well as green ones, apparently; maybe those are for someone else? “We’re gonna run through some last gear checks, so get ready!”

Right. So apparently, your starting place was near the door in the…? Ah, over there.

“Hey.” You quickly turn around to see a large, sharkfaced being with a black mask on. He’s dressed in similar leathers as you are, though he’s got some kind of symbol on his chest. “Said you were an Outgoer, right?” You nod. “Cool. I’m Mavara, I’m playin’ Letch, so I’m gonna be the guy who tosses ya in the aftermath. Glass is breakable, so don’t worry. I’ll be gentle. Break it beforehand, even. You okay with getting grabbed by the neck from behind, or how you wanna do this?”

> “That’s fine. Sounds reasonable enough.” (Standard)
> “I thought you were going to two-hand hurl me, honestly. Don’t worry about the glass.” (Brutal)
> “Well, if this is supposed to be your big moment, you could just ‘punch’ me out. (Finesse)
> “I was thinking…” (Other)

I didn't forget asking about the other reward.

>>3515718
> “I thought you were going to two-hand hurl me, honestly. Don’t worry about the glass.” (Brutal)

Lewd..but in reality this si a bar fight they are never clean. So brutality will help sell the scene better. i bet Randa went into a couple of bar fights before. We also have healing.

>>3515718
>“I thought you were going to two-hand hurl me, honestly. Don’t worry about the glass.” (Brutal)

>>3515718
>> “I thought you were going to two-hand hurl me, honestly. Don’t worry about the glass.” (Brutal)


>and your hair taken from its pigtails and (cut! argh…)
Aw. hopefully it wasn't too much, and it'll regrow soon enough.

>>3515718
>> “Well, if this is supposed to be your big moment, you could just ‘punch’ me out. (Finesse)

"I'm the furthest thing from fine china. Just make it look impressive."

Writing!

>>3515751
Surely there exists some sort of hair-in-a-can, r-right?

>>3515785
If there was one thing i learned from watching The Raid was that the more realistic a fight scene looks the better it's for a movie. Specialy if it's a action movie.

>>3515788
I can already hear Lorelai teasing Miranda about the hair.

>>3515788
Heck, extensions are a thing IRL, and shouldn't be expensive relative to what we're usually spending. but as long as it wasn't really noticeable it should be fine to just let it regrow.

You know, would throwing Miranda through the wall be too over the top, with the window slightly to the side of our exit point for comedic effect?

>>3515797
Now that i think about it a easy way to solve that is by using our neat new gloves to reverse time. Then we will have our hair at the right size again. So no biggy.

>>3515799
i half thinking in doing a drunk fight stance. But this fight seems to be a serious one so i don't think comedy would fit into it.

>>3515806
Well, Miranda gets yeeted after raising an obvious flag, so it is not that serious. Just thinking about 'style' points for this task.

>>3515814
Just make it look real and gritty. Let the people really hit us, that way people watching will feel connected to our character (since most people don't know how to fight) and gives some ground for people to think that even if the character knows how to handle a fight she can also be hurt and so she becomes easier to connect with the audience who will be rooting for her.

And then once she is finished fighting six guys at a time being well beaten the big bad comes in and throws her out of the window.

>>3515823
>Let the people really hit us,
We could totally do it, but I dunno if the actors will want to go with it.

>>3515831
Oh yeah. But i dunno once the first guy notice we don't even flinch froma punch they might try?

Or we can just do some cool martial art move like use two broken pieces of a leg and hit people with it. Improvised weaponry is pretty neat in movies too.