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File: Trio Casuals.jpg (2.98 MB, 3840x2160)
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You never really knew how to act around high and mighty types like this. Even back home, you were kind of stuck on it. Not that you were always a belligerent sort, but it seemed like any little thing could piss them off for whatever stupid reason. It’s not fun to tiptoe around folks like that. Cylica gives off that same vibe, honestly. She’s super uptight and haughty, although for some reason she also gives you a feeling like it’s more bark than bite. Considering who she’s sweet on, it might make sense…

“Well?” Cylica asks as her staff is readied. “Are you going to do this or just waste time? If it’s mental preparation you need, I can likely assist...”

Right. Guess SOME things are the same no matter where you are.

Welcome back to Magical Girl For Hire!
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Magical%20Girl%20For%20Hire%20Quest
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>>
>>4076277
This whole Training Day thing is...honestly, it’s exhausting. Just over a half of a day, and you’re exhausted, even with the breaks. At least Boss gave you time to eat. Even had the good grace to order food for the lot of you. Still, your body’s feeling more sore than you’ve EVER recalled it feeling, and you’re positive that afterwards you’re taking the world’s longest shower. Or maybe even a soak if you can manage it. The only apartment nearby that you’d qualified for was a tiny thing, but it at least had a bathtub.

Gah, but you shouldn’t be getting distracted, especially with who you’re training with. “Pass,” you mention as you square up. “I’m just trying to get back into a rhythm.” You’d been considering your Sheep’s Blade that you’d been taught somewhat by that oddball swordsman on that big group mission a while back. He’d mentioned something else briefly- a battle hymn of some sorts that he’d theorized might help you with awareness and senses. He’d dismissed it- partially because of your horrible seasickness- but you’d held it in the back of your mind. Now was as good a time as any to give it a shot. You’d made...slight progress, is the best you could say. Singing, or at least humming, during a fight proved to be harrowing- usually is, but in such close range? Hoo boy. It’s that, plus admittedly not quite remembering the lyrics and flow, that ended up with what you have now:

>Mental Music: There’s something about running the tune through your head as loud as possible that gives you a heavily reduced effect- but definitely still an effect, if only for self-modification. Silent, outward effects are still beyond you…
>Ear Worm: It’s a basic tune, but easily repeatable, meaning it’s hard to throw you off. From what you’ve found, your reflexes increase greatly, but it doesn’t seem like your sense of smell or perception or anything else increases.
>Lesser Hunter’s Blade: You’ve stuck to your guns as best you can, and managed to get some basic effects from it- though your memory failing you means that you’ll have to work at it to build up said effect, and that you’ll have to fill in parts with your own custom lyrics. Not to mention getting jarred out of the song.
>>
>>4076281
>Lesser Hunter’s Blade: You’ve stuck to your guns as best you can, and managed to get some basic effects from it- though your memory failing you means that you’ll have to work at it to build up said effect, and that you’ll have to fill in parts with your own custom lyrics. Not to mention getting jarred out of the song.
Welcome back!
>>
>>4076281
>>Ear Worm: It’s a basic tune, but easily repeatable, meaning it’s hard to throw you off. From what you’ve found, your reflexes increase greatly, but it doesn’t seem like your sense of smell or perception or anything else increases.
Welcome back, Boss! How're things going?
>>
>>4076281
>Lesser Hunter’s Blade: You’ve stuck to your guns as best you can, and managed to get some basic effects from it- though your memory failing you means that you’ll have to work at it to build up said effect, and that you’ll have to fill in parts with your own custom lyrics. Not to mention getting jarred out of the song.
>>
>>4076281
>Lesser Hunter’s Blade: You’ve stuck to your guns as best you can, and managed to get some basic effects from it- though your memory failing you means that you’ll have to work at it to build up said effect, and that you’ll have to fill in parts with your own custom lyrics. Not to mention getting jarred out of the song.
>>
Lesser Hunter it is. As taught...mostly.

Writing!

>>4076294
Just glad it's the weekend, really.
>>
>>4076281
>>4076291
>>4076295
>>4076309
You didn’t really feel comfortable trying to branch out on your own just yet, and so you’d kept as close to the concept as possible, using what he’d taught you about the Sheep’s Blade and the little you’d heard of the Hunter’s to form the basis of the Hunter’s Blade. There was an effect there, yeah- you’d started smelling things a bit clearer, and whenever Izumi or Owlia or whoever took a swing at you, you swear it was slower when you were singing than when you weren’t. Or at the least you could move sooner after you registered it coming. Speaking of, though… “On the count of three,” you say.

“Finally,” she mutters, and you have to stop yourself from rolling your eyes.

“One…” the wordless chants start up in your head again, soon to come out of your mouth. “Two…” the word timed with the mental upbeat, and you work the word in the rhythm at the same time. “Three!” The deep throated chants begin with that word, itself said in the deep tone that you need to keep rhythm as you charge; Cylica stands at the ready with her staff, and thrusting attempt is dodged with a quick spin, and you strike down with your wooden sword as the beat drops in your head and out your mouth.

The fight starts, and the clack-on-clack of wood matches the beat in your head as you continue to test your overall ability- occasionally you’ll sense a swipe coming, and the *woosh* of a missed attack adds a surprisingly nice accessory to the beat.

One of the interesting things you’ve noticed with some fights, honestly. Occasionally, it feels like the opponent will get sucked into your musical rhythm if they aren’t careful...it kind of turns things more into a dance that you’re leading. Ha. Now if you only had proper backing music playing while you fight and sing. THAT’D be crazy.

(cont)
>>
>>4076454
>Owlia

Roooobot. Android. Mechanical marvel. Soooo many things to call this fascinating construction of parts, something that even you hadn’t even considered before coming to this WONDERLAND but really it makes too much sense. With the right application of crystal technologies you found it hard to imagine how these things wouldn’t be able to displace organic life as the primary life- although wait, no, no, that wasn’t true at all, as they’d lack the ability to reconstitute themselves like organic beings tended to be able to, like from cuts and bruises and whatnot. Ah, but what about these ‘nanomachine’ things? Tiiiiiny tiny microscopic machines like crystal dust but smaller. Astounding. Heard that they could be controlled and made to do a number of things. Liquid blood. Wait, blood IS liquid. Artificial blood, there we go, that’s the thing. Overflowing like paint, thick controllable paint. Could take on different colors by reflecting different amounts of light, even, perhaps allowing for camouflage purposes- and art. Shapes, too, so great big freaking structures like what you’d read about in-

“Er, hello?” Oh, and the automated responses! The artificial intelligence that can actually use its database to take contextual information and use it plus prior history or acquired third or secondhand knowledge for formulate a completely original responsive action! A machine that needs no input to understand it needs to fix itself, perhaps, or even formulate desires of its own based upon existing data and calculation of what it may require for living optimally according to-

“Excuse me!” Hm? You blink to shake yourself out of your thoughts- the artificial lifeform called Prima is standing right in front of you, head tilted in a way that approximated concern. “I inquired if you were ready yet, however you have neglected to respond for approximately thirty-five point three seconds longer than average, and I’m detecting an increased heart rate, dilated eyes, and shallow breathing. Are perhaps in need of a longer rest period, or perhaps this might be a medical emergency?”

(cont.2)
>>
>>4076458
Oh. Right. Training. You were doing a thing. “Oh, no. Nearly forgot. Power beam, I’m working on right now! Just some tests to see my maximum output and possible modifications I can make to it.”

She nods. “Ah. I have witnessed you executing this technique earlier in the training session. What are the results of your tests?”

You can’t help but smile. Always good to feed the desire for knowledge! “Excellent question! The power beam is relatively simple at the moment, so there’s not a lot I can do to expand on it as it is, but...”

>Maximum Power Beam: You’ve found a way to increase the energy output to approximately 150% of its standard, and increases the size of the beam by 33%, covering the majority of your head and upper body. It’ll leave you a bit winded if you push it for too long, but you believe this is roughly the power level of one of Miranda’s fully charged magi-blasts, but SUSTAINED. You might actually have her beat on mana efficiency...
> Split Power Beam: You’ve managed to begin to find a way to fragment and condense your Power Beam’s trajectory; meaning you can theoretically split it two ways, three if you really focus. The size is decreased, but you’ve managed to keep roughly the same power ratio. You can’t really focus this for more than a second or two without further practice, however.
>>
>>4076461
>>Maximum Power Beam: You’ve found a way to increase the energy output to approximately 150% of its standard, and increases the size of the beam by 33%, covering the majority of your head and upper body. It’ll leave you a bit winded if you push it for too long, but you believe this is roughly the power level of one of Miranda’s fully charged magi-blasts, but SUSTAINED. You might actually have her beat on mana efficiency...

Next, we got to create some drones outfitted with reflective crystals so we can bounce the beam around corners or cover to hit targets.
>>
>>4076461
>Maximum Power Beam: You’ve found a way to increase the energy output to approximately 150% of its standard, and increases the size of the beam by 33%, covering the majority of your head and upper body. It’ll leave you a bit winded if you push it for too long, but you believe this is roughly the power level of one of Miranda’s fully charged magi-blasts, but SUSTAINED. You might actually have her beat on mana efficiency...
Specialization ho!
>>
>>4076461
>Maximum Power Beam: You’ve found a way to increase the energy output to approximately 150% of its standard, and increases the size of the beam by 33%, covering the majority of your head and upper body. It’ll leave you a bit winded if you push it for too long, but you believe this is roughly the power level of one of Miranda’s fully charged magi-blasts, but SUSTAINED. You might actually have her beat on mana efficiency...
>>
>>4076461
>>Maximum Power Beam: You’ve found a way to increase the energy output to approximately 150% of its standard, and increases the size of the beam by 33%, covering the majority of your head and upper body. It’ll leave you a bit winded if you push it for too long, but you believe this is roughly the power level of one of Miranda’s fully charged magi-blasts, but SUSTAINED. You might actually have her beat on mana efficiency...
BEEEEAM
>>
>>4076461
>Maximum Power Beam
BEAM
>>
>>4076461
>>Maximum Power Beam: You’ve found a way to increase the energy output to approximately 150% of its standard, and increases the size of the beam by 33%, covering the majority of your head and upper body. It’ll leave you a bit winded if you push it for too long, but you believe this is roughly the power level of one of Miranda’s fully charged magi-blasts, but SUSTAINED. You might actually have her beat on mana efficiency...
Now this is some firepower!
>>
It's no Zetta Beam, but...

Writing.
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>>4076521
You just scored more points from me Handler.
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>>4076521
i can already see owlia like this in the near future
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>>4076461
>>4076464
>>4076465
>>4076469
>>4076474
>>4076492
“...doing some simple trials over the day, now that I have time to specifically focus on it, I’ve discovered some SERIOUS inefficiencies in how I manage to channel the crystal’s energy,” you explain. The methodology you’d used to implant the crystal was...well, still experimental (and also very painful, but that’s irrelevant) and so naturally it wouldn’t be 100% perfect the first time- although the lack of residual pain was, admittedly, very fortunate. Still, it meant that, theoretically, there were improvements that could be made in several areas...perhaps not exactly re-implanting (for now), but there’s certainly things you wanted to do to to improve yourself- it’s not like the crystal being inactive for approximately two hours or so would kill you. (You know this because you tested it a touch inadvertently, which is something you shall never ever tell Cylica about.) “My last break, I popped on over to my lab really quickly and made a slight modification or two to the absorption lattice and made a slight recalibration to the output frequency. I’m pretty sure that, by my calculations, I’ve increased the potency by upping the energy output to 150%. That should, if my observations and calculations are correct, be on par with one of Miranda’s famed ‘magi-blasts’ at full charge.”

“That sounds...rather destructive. And possibly expensive in terms of mana consumption,” Prima points out.

Fair point, but you’d already thought of that. “Not at all! The crystal that I used is highly efficient in terms of mana processing. Might even be better than Miranda herself.”

“Oh? What makes you come to such a conclusion?” Ah, so she wants more data, hm? “Well, take that defensive crystal I gave you, and I’ll show via a bit of an example.”

She actually looks...worried. “Are you certain this is rated strong enough to withstand the extra force?”

“Of course!” That’s only a slight lie. You’re 80% certain it’s strong enough, considering it’s a full crystal and you won’t be keeping the beam on her for very long. “Now, hold still…”

(cont)
>>
>>4076795
>Cylica

“You’re serious.” Well, now. Little Miss Commander seems ever so slightly worried at the skill you’d decided to train. Really, this was...not the career change you’d thought you’d have. Although, if you’re being honest (like that’d happen to anyone not named Owlia), you’re somewhat happy about this whole thing. Perhaps not the individuals that believe you to be nothing more than a source of cheap labor, but the idea of being able to decide what you want to do today, and only have yourself to worry about? It’s been rather refreshing, and you aren’t nearly as annoyed with Miranda being your superior as you thought you would be- admittedly, that’s largely because Miranda has very much been hands-off in regards to her management style...although today may be marking a change, in which case you might have to make your own thoughts known.

You at least have plenty of time to research and practice and save money- and your own martial skills HAD atrophied quite a bit from disuse before you’d gotten involved with these folk. No reason to not shake some of the rust off your more sparingly used abilities, hm? “Quite serious. My mental manipulation is a bit lacking. I daresay it’d be rather useful in my...reclamations.” Admittedly, the idea of becoming a glorified mercenary or tax collector was...less enticing. But money quite literally made the world go around here, and this was the best source of it- and very clearly something rather well-respected, as opposed to, as you’d heard the term, ‘shut-ins’. And fortunately, you had only rarely had to deal with great physical exertion- and you weren’t against the occasional bout of exercise, obviously, thus you’d stayed with this little organization so far. “So then, my dear leader, if you wouldn’t mind letting me have a touch more access to your mind. It’s not as though I haven’t done it before…” Although damned was she a hard sell.

Indeed, Miranda grimaces...before sighing. “Fine, but I’m getting Izumi to keep an eye on things just in case. Need to work on keeping my mind to myself anywho…” you hear her mutter. “Might could make it work both ways.” Perhaps she’s had issues in the past? Oh dear. Well, it’s not like it’s permanent.

Still, with this permission, perchance you can keep her on her toes a bit…

>Since You Asked Nicely…: Instead of a continuous attempt at direct control, you could try for something a bit more...subtle. After you’ve wormed your way into their mind briefly, a particular word or phrase, spoken only by you, should give you temporary control over the individual- enough to submit a command to them, and have them follow it, at least. Hypnosis that they don’t recognize as hypnosis.
>Improved Mind Rewrite: You’ll pour a bit more ‘juice’ into this than normal- ideally you’ll be able to get her under your thrall faster and easier than before, allowing you more time before they *sigh* inevitably shake it off.
>>
>>4076797
>>Since You Asked Nicely…: Instead of a continuous attempt at direct control, you could try for something a bit more...subtle. After you’ve wormed your way into their mind briefly, a particular word or phrase, spoken only by you, should give you temporary control over the individual- enough to submit a command to them, and have them follow it, at least. Hypnosis that they don’t recognize as hypnosis.
>>
>>4076797
>>Improved Mind Rewrite: You’ll pour a bit more ‘juice’ into this than normal- ideally you’ll be able to get her under your thrall faster and easier than before, allowing you more time before they *sigh* inevitably shake it off.
>>
>>4076797
>Since You Asked Nicely…: Instead of a continuous attempt at direct control, you could try for something a bit more...subtle. After you’ve wormed your way into their mind briefly, a particular word or phrase, spoken only by you, should give you temporary control over the individual- enough to submit a command to them, and have them follow it, at least. Hypnosis that they don’t recognize as hypnosis.
>>
>>4076797
>Since You Asked Nicely…: Instead of a continuous attempt at direct control, you could try for something a bit more...subtle. After you’ve wormed your way into their mind briefly, a particular word or phrase, spoken only by you, should give you temporary control over the individual- enough to submit a command to them, and have them follow it, at least. Hypnosis that they don’t recognize as hypnosis.
>>
>>4076797
Naw, y'know, I think literal mind control over hypnosis mind control is just the right level of spiciness. Not like Cylica would DO anything untoward with control over Miranda right?
>Improved Mind Rewrite: You’ll pour a bit more ‘juice’ into this than normal- ideally you’ll be able to get her under your thrall faster and easier than before, allowing you more time before they *sigh* inevitably shake it off.
>>
>>4076797
>>Since You Asked Nicely…: Instead of a continuous attempt at direct control, you could try for something a bit more...subtle. After you’ve wormed your way into their mind briefly, a particular word or phrase, spoken only by you, should give you temporary control over the individual- enough to submit a command to them, and have them follow it, at least. Hypnosis that they don’t recognize as hypnosis.
>>
>>4076797
>Improved Mind Rewrite
This seems to be the choice between improving the use between non-combat or direct combat, from the situations I exprct we'll be using these. Might as well make sure it's effective before we care about efficiency.
>>
>>4076797
>Since You Asked Nicely…: Instead of a continuous attempt at direct control, you could try for something a bit more...subtle. After you’ve wormed your way into their mind briefly, a particular word or phrase, spoken only by you, should give you temporary control over the individual- enough to submit a command to them, and have them follow it, at least. Hypnosis that they don’t recognize as hypnosis.
Theoretically Miranda should be able to put up some barriers IF she knows a mind-breach is coming. But what about more subtle approaches, when she doesn't see them coming at all?
>>
>>4076797
>Improved Mind Rewrite
No half measures
>>
>>4076797
>Improved Mind Rewrite: You’ll pour a bit more ‘juice’ into this than normal- ideally you’ll be able to get her under your thrall faster and easier than before, allowing you more time before they *sigh* inevitably shake it off.
>>
>>4076797
>>Since You Asked Nicely…
I gotta go for the Bioshock option.
>>
Back. Seems like we're learning to ask nicely. Sort of.
>>
>>4078264
How has your nose been treating you?
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>>4078369
Honestly, not great. It's why I'm starting so late. Sinus headache laid me up for the majority of the day, even with tea and pills and whatnot.
>>
>>4078373
Well, hope you'll be getting better then. The ginger drink I suggested helps with the common flu, nose and throat problems, but something like a heavy nasal infection is out of the line it seems. And it certainly doesn't help with headaches.
>>
When she gets back with Lorelei, she nods to you. “Alright. Let’s see if you can crack my defenses or not...preferably with no lasting effects.”

You scoff, giving her a light smirk. “Considering this island seems to have just about every other service on it, I doubt there isn’t someone somewhere that could fix you up were it to end poorly.”

“Yeah, but it’d come out of YOUR bank account,” she fires back, and you nearly flinch at how seamlessly she did. She would’ve been a rather capable general back home… “Anyway, Lorelei’s going to make sure everything’s above water. Don’t make me do anything ridiculous.”

“Oh, of course! Do you really think I’d be so crass as to make you do something out of character in a mere training exercise? You’re doing this for our benefit, after all…” The glare she sends you tells you everything you need to know, and you can’t help but feel a bit amused at it. She’s not exactly wrong for the suspicion. “Right, right, let’s start…” You point towards her with your staff, and a small wisp of smoke exudes from it. “...when I say to begin.”

She frowns deeper as the smoke encircles her, and she grits her teeth slightly upon it worming its way into her ear, but says nothing. From there...well, it’s up to her own mental defenses. Likely, she thinks that was merely a catalyst for traditional mind control, but if she’s even a bit lacking… “So then, that’ll be the start of things. Feel anything off?”

“Nope,” she responds. Perfectly fine.

“Alright, then. Step towards me,” you command. As you expect, she does nothing, just folding her arms. “Hm. Spin in a circle.”

“Pass.” She lets out a mild snort. “Not even the slightest pull.”

You let out a playful huff. “Well, unless you begin to start tap dancing, I may call this a bust.” Now, if this works at all...

She tilts her head briefly, blinking with a relatively blank face. There’s a few seconds where you’re genuinely worried it might have fallen to her mental protections, before- “What, you mean like this?”

And. She. Starts. Tap dancing. Horribly, mind, but…

Lorelei puts a hand to her mouth, barely holding in a snort of laughter. You just grin. A bit of a delay, which is worrisome, but on the whole...yes. “Right, well, if we can begin to move on, and you can put on a smile…”

(cont)
>>
>>4078514
>Prima and Jago.

“These augmentation devices seem quite useful,” you conclude. Their protective properties can provide a layer of defense your shell simply cannot, and you find yourself curious as to what other devices can be utilized with your new energy source. “Mana, although volatile, seems to be adaptable in the extreme.” You’re still surprised you can generate it, actually. No self-diagnostic seems to have identified why.

“Wonder if’n there’s a way we can integrate it with our systems,” Jago muses. For once, he seems to be taking this seriously. “Would be bonza ta just go and blow ovah anyone fool enough ta take a potshot at us, no worries.”

“It would provide an advantage,” you admit, “However, that would require some major modifications to our shells, I believe. In the meantime...perhaps it would be best to merely proceed to attempt to figure out how to draw power in an efficient manner from these mana-sensitive devices. While we remain unable to directly channel this mana, it seems as though some of these tools autonomously reacts with the material in our bodies with minimal effort. We may as well do what we can to increase our understanding.”

Jago just sighs. “Right. Let's get back to it. Where were we?”

>A bit different: Roll 2d20 for this.
>Choose a specification, if any.
>>
Rolled 7, 14 = 21 (2d20)

>>4078518
Specification as in?
>>
Rolled 4, 8 = 12 (2d20)

>>4078518
>>
Rolled 8, 18 = 26 (2d20)

>>4078518
You mean, like using wands or magical weapons?
>>
Rolled 4, 2 = 6 (2d20)

>>4078518
>>
...Yeah, probably should've specified that. Might need that list of weapons/loot. Swear I had it, but lost the link.

>Melee weapons (mana enhanced)
>Crystal augments
>Mana-based weapons (staves/wands/etc.)
>Other (if you had any ideas)
>>
>>4078550
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Z3xqyWOe5upXuYIUsBSV4pWkC1sG0mnYzn_lJyRJZiI/edit
here you go, boss

>>4078518
>Crystal augments
>>
>>4078550
>Melee weapons (mana enhanced) - Jago
>Crystal augments - Prima
>>
>>4078550
Crystal Augments for Prima
Melee Weapons for Jago
>>
>>4078550
>Melee weapons (mana enhanced) - Jago
>Crystal augments - Prima

Also Miranda tap dancing, while smiling. Imagine that.
>>
Fairly one sided. Still need to get used to this whole 'mana' thing, though.
>>
>>4078518
>>4078552
>>4078554
>>4078559
>>4078578

Hm. You’d elected to continue with your data acquisition regarding crystal augmentations, while Jago had elected to move on to melee weapons- according to Miranda’s statements, many of them were ‘mana-enhancable’, that is, should one be able to channel mana into the weapon, it would gain a boost to its attributes. Miranda had granted him her gauntlets temporarily, which she’d deemed to be the best usage of them for the time being- they fit his hands, fortunately, if just barely. He seemed to just barely be getting the hang of them, while your own efforts...well, you knew that they were semi-autonomous, but that adding mana would help.

However, he was able to reduce the defensive shield to a minimum of effectiveness over the span of several minutes, despite all calculations and observations indicating that it should have taken him far longer. However, this only occurs twice, you note, and the second time took him longer on average than the first, if still shorter than estimates. That can only mean there’s been a severe miscalculation with your own data. You may need to work closer with these crystals- or perhaps learn more about your own internal resources before you can improve much with these things…

>Jago and Prima can now use non-robotic Equipment at reduced effectiveness and increased mana cost. Further use of Equipment and Training will reduce the cost.

(cont)
>>
>>4078719
>Miranda

By the end of the day...you’d call it a success. The kids went around, either helping where they could, gaining minor instruction, or otherwise just watching what real training looks like. They’d even tried to get into it themselves later on, but barely lasted an hour before they were utterly exhausted, resulting in them mostly napping on the sidelines for the rest of the day. While you feel a touch of pity that their day was more or less cut short, when you wake them up, they don’t seem to have any complaints beyond the typical whining of how hard it was. “That’s part of being an Outgoer,” you mention as you usher them from the HQ, your team members splitting up once again to head home. “Diligence to the craft. You can’t just stop learning new tricks or tactics, or else you get left behind and surprised.”

“...but it’s really tiring,” Tami mutters. There’s no heat in it- she’s too tired for it to be. Harp is...surprisingly smiling. Likely because she’d managed to catchin Izumi in a bit of a break and had gotten some light tips and sparring from her, alongside Tami. Girl was a machine herself, you swear.

“Kinda cool, though,” Noran concedes. Mewla’s exhausted enough that she can’t do much but flutter her wings on his head where she rests. The kids are clearly done for the day- and that means you’ll need to take them back to the Care House. Might as well start considering what’s next on your to-do list- you’ll need to pick up your orders, of course, but aside from that…

>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
>You’re going to want more clout around The Intersection.
>You might want to start looking into new jobs.
>Other
>>
>>4078721
>>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
>>
>>4078721
>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
Time to take care of this elephant.
>>
>>4078721
>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
>>
>>4078721
>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
>>
>>4078721
>You’re going to want more clout around The Intersection.
>>
>>4078721
>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
>>
>>4078721
>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
The clout is tempting, but being able to shelve the arguments over the last hiring spot is too good to pass up
>>
>>4078721
>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
>>
>>4078721
>You’re going to focus on getting one last hire...
So what type of employee are we looking for again?
Owlia's lab helper?
Vehicle Specialist?
>>
>>4080267
engineer/vehicle specialist. i'm still thinking about the space elf because she fits the requirements, but frankly, whoever manages to impress us is fine.
>>
>>4080270
Is the space elf . . . blue? Because that will affect my decision.
>>
>>4080282
She's neither blue nor a space elf.
>>
>>4080282
i agree with him>>4080288; that image was just me shitposting. I actually don't remember anything about her other than she's from a sci fi universe and that she is a space pilot, which is what we need now.
>>
>>4080270
>>4080270
What space elf are you talking about? There was some space ranger that we've met in OTC a while ago, but she's a newbie and we're looking for people with ecperience in this business. And she was neither an elf nor an engineer.
>>
>>4080311
>There was some space ranger that we've met in OTC a while ago
that one. i'm not sure how she got turned into an elf, but i want to hire her because of how cheap she'll be super cheap to hire and she was (from the little information we had) a very capable pilot.the engineer part also got extrapolated because she sounds like she comes from a mass effect like world, and the pilots from those worlds tend to be jack of all trades.
>>
>>4080267
Personally, either a heavy-hitter Enforcer with high mobility (because almost half of our team are supports and Mono and Jago can't travel as fast as MG trio), or an engineer that could help in the lab and upgrade Jago's and Prima's frames.
>>
(Not a full run, but just getting this out of the way.)

It’s time you get someone in on that last bit of space that Sal oh-so-generously offered you way back. You’ve got a good, if inexperienced, team, you think. But you don’t want to wait exceptionally long, might as well have several newbies at once so they can train and learn as a team instead of anyone feeling particularly like the odd one out. There’s two big questions here, though. The first of this is simple: Who are you looking to hire? There’s a few positions you feel are more necessary than others...

>A pilot; someone who can fly anything and look good doing it. You need to put those aircraft to use, and you’ll get access to different types of jobs with someone like that.
>Another engineer; Owlia might have robotic help, but there’s nothing like another organic brain on the case. Whatever that case might be.
>Another bruiser like you; you’re good, but some more help in the thick of things is more than welcome, especially if you’re going to go after higher-ranked jobs.
>Maybe something a bit more unique… (Other)
>>
>>4080356
>Another engineer; Owlia might have robotic help, but there’s nothing like another organic brain on the case. Whatever that case might be.
>>
>>4080356
>>Another bruiser like you; you’re good, but some more help in the thick of things is more than welcome, especially if you’re going to go after higher-ranked jobs.
If we're going for a new hire, we've got the tech stuff covered. We already bought a new robot helper for her, and if we still need meat brains, we can offer part time jobs or internships to Care House students.
>>
>>4080356
>A pilot; someone who can fly anything and look good doing it. You need to put those aircraft to use, and you’ll get access to different types of jobs with someone like that.
either we get that thing flying, or we sell it.
>>
>>4080361
I really want another bruiser, but that list of stuff to research is not getting smaller and those new biotech frames show a lot of promise.
>>
>>4080356
>>Another engineer; Owlia might have robotic help, but there’s nothing like another organic brain on the case. Whatever that case might be.
>>
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>>4080356
>Maybe something a bit more unique… (Other)

An Magical Artificier? Someone who is knowledgeable about tech, has smithing skills and can do basic in-house enchantments. Can also help Owlia from time to time.
Or an Alchemist who supplies the team with utility potions (a Stamina drink to ward off sleep for example) and good usables like magical bombs and such.

A regular bruiser is just boring. Our base team is good and balanced enough, except for the unused aircraft, so I'm in favor of hiring someone who can enhance the entire team's performance.
>>
>>4080493
sure, this works great for me.
>>
>>4080356
Running late, but Imma vote for >>4080493
A hybrid of the two to buff the hell outta our team while not going into jobs themselves. A sleep pot will do wonders for night ops, and Owlia.
>>
>>4080356
I'll back this>>4080493
>>
>>4080356
>>4080493
Artificers are potentially nightmarishly powerful when working with Owlia. And don't get me started on implant possibilities if they know biotech.
>>
>>4080602
Now that you mention it, artificers sound a lot like witchers.
>>
>>4080356
>Other

I still think it'd be cool to have a general/commander type. Job types don't overlap with the other girls giving the company a wider choice and experience. Good face skills too
>>
>>4080621
Augmentation focussed ones kinda are, but most artificers are more "I have a gun that shoots smaller guns that shoot spikes that explode into acid coated needles charged with electricity, and that's attached to my mech suit that I pilot in my power armour."
>>
>>4080356
>>Another bruiser like you; you’re good, but some more help in the thick of things is more than welcome, especially if you’re going to go after higher-ranked jobs.
>>
>>4080356
Supporting >>4080493
>>
>>4080356
Giving this a go >>4080493
>>
>>4080356
>A pilot; someone who can fly anything and look good doing it. You need to put those aircraft to use, and you’ll get access to different types of jobs with someone like that.
A lost cause by now but by god I want galactic ara ara~s!
>>
ok, if everyone is inclined to an artificer(And if said artificer doesn't know how to fly a plane). what the hell do we do with the hangar and the plane?
>>
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>>4083528
- We add in piloting skills requirements, but that narrows down our potential pool. Or we can...

- Sell the aircraft, perhaps to some group like Dynamic Methods.

Personally a lot of people have expressed interested in selling them, so I'm on that too. We get a giant amount of Lotes (that's an entire plane and then some, I'm not surprised we can outright buy out an living place with the money). We can use the resulting cash to refurbish the HQ and supply the entire team, Owlia and the new hire.
>>
>>4083528
We could find training software or simulators for minibots - they've shown that they can pilot mecha without any training, why not aircraft too? Jago is an Enforcer so we get full range of jobs as opposed to having O&C as our pilots cuz they are Couriers.
>>
>>4083528
>>4084003
This. It's more expensive than learning in a sim, but damn would it save time.
>>4083813
Or sell it and stick to land vehicles and power armour in the hanger.
>>
>>4084003
that's definitely an alternative. Make the bots download all the videos about being a pilot that we can find and call them pilots from now on.
>>
Huh. Artificer with alchemical experience preferred? Interesting choice.
>>
>>4084089
Welcome back!
My only one further wish is that she's a MG herself, it's only fitting that our final team member to be one.

And is a haughty Frenchie, complete with the accent.
>>
>>4084103
I guess that's a reference...but I don't know it.
>>
If we're potentially selling the planes, maybe we can use the fund to customize the girls' personal vehicles into actual battle bikes so we can use them in jobs.

>>4084103
>French Ojou-sama Alchemist
Oddly enough, aren't that out of place for our mishmash of a group.
>>
>>4084149
isn't that cylica sans the accent?
>>
>>4084167
She isn't the whole package until she does the laugh, and no way in hell that's happening. Girl's about as no fun allowed as Raanda'.
>>
>>4084182
This could happen, but only if Owlia asks.
>>
>>4084167
There's one big thing and one side thing that keeps her from being an Ojou-sama...

The small thing: She doesn't have drill hair.

The big thing: She just doesn't have the laugh.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-AHUFHHNXw
>>
...now I can't get an image of Cylica going full honhonhon outta my head
https://youtu.be/0Mz88TYuBn4
>>
>>4084196
the first one gets fixed by going to the hair salon and the second one gets fixed by getting cylica drunk. why do you think she doesn't want to get drunk? because she's gonna laugh like that!
>>
>>4084182
Miranda is plenty fun! At set times and locations fun can be had in moderate amounts!
>>
Thinking about it, it might be a good idea to get some help that’s more backline; someone that can hold up in the lab with Owlia. Robotic help is nice, but there’s nothing like another organic brain on the case. Whatever that case might be. Still, you don’t want them to be JUST backup for Owlia; they need to be able to hold up out in the field, maybe assist with support. You don’t quite have anyone with backline support. Maybe someone who can do alchemy…

Eventually, you draft up a bit of an ad; considering how Outgoer intranet stuff works, you’ll have to probably post this up both on public jobs boards, and maybe even the REALLY old fashioned way. What you have here so far...

>Wanted: Artificer Specialist
>Silver Eye Solutions is currently seeking an individual skilled in the engineering and construction of magic-conductive devices. Will be working with others, team-friendly disposition required. Experience Required.

>Preferred Skills: Crystal Technologies, Electric-based mechanical devices.

...you don’t usually do want ads, so hopefully that’s good enough. After that it’s just contact information and location. Hm...

>Is this acceptable? Yes/No
>If not, choose what to add/subtract.
>>
>>4084224
>If not, choose what to add/subtract.
>It's a plus if you know how to use a plane.

Also add at the top: FREE BEER
>>
>>4084224
Hmmmmm, I feel like adding in some thing like.

>>4084236
>It's a plus if
- You know how to use a plane.
- You have Alchemical or Potioneering knowledge.
That way these won't be mandatory and are only brownies and we'll have more potential applicants.
>>
>>4084236
>>4084251
Throw in : You have combating experiences.
>>
>>4084224
>>4084251 this, but note that it is not essential
>>
>>4084236
>>4084251
>>4084263
>>4084271


After some deliberation, your final ad looks like this:

>Wanted: Artificer Specialist
>Silver Eye Solutions is currently seeking an individual skilled in the engineering and construction of magic-conductive devices. Will be working with others, team-friendly disposition required. Experience Required.

>Preferred Skills: Crystal Technologies, Electric-based mechanical devices.
>It's a plus if
- You know how to use a plane.
- You have personal combat experience.
- You have Alchemical or Potioneering knowledge.

You’re uncertain of how many people will actually respond, considering those requirements, but here’s hoping…

>Writing!
>>
>>4084358
Maybe specify that we are an outgoer group.
>>
>>4084358
*Ding*

...oh. Well, shit, that was fast. But you’re not going to look at it now- you’d rather get some shuteye. Might as well just check it all at once tomorrow…

-------

*Ding*

You’re practically woken up to the sound of another incoming response to your ad. Were there really that many? Ugh. This might get to be a hassle…

Sure enough, as you sit down to breakfast, you sight as you thumb through the throng. Well, might as well start sifting through them now…

...even with some more coming in through the initial pass, you’re annoyed that most of these aren’t even close to qualified- a lot of ‘I’m new to artificing and everything else but I swear I can at least learn on the job!’ sort of applications. There’s places for folks like that, and you’re obviously not exactly adverse to taking on newcomers- but that’s not for stuff that requires more brains than brawn.

By midday, you’ve already thinned it down to seven that you like at all, and the influx of applications has already stopped for now.

>Lezre: An orcess, it seems, with a knack for reverse engineering and she apparently was top of her academic class back on her homeworld before “The Cataclysm”. She states her specialty to be weapon enhancements, though she is claimed to be skilled in alchemical works as well. She has limited experience in crystal enhancement, though she’s well aware of theory. She’s also ‘experienced in ‘personal bloodletting’ as she phrases it. She has no piloting experience, however. She currently works as a bouncer at ‘Club Riprock’ in the Festival District.

>Attached Statement: “Employment of this nature is what I’ve always dreamed of. I daresay I would be a grand addition to your crew, if not the best. I’m quite quick on the uptake and have been told I’m a dab hand in a fight!”

--------------

>Nura Qahtan: Tiefling, and was apparently ‘a Class-S Artisan of the Guild of Amberlily’, which she claims to have had over two-thousand members and was one of the most prestigious in the land. She claims to be dual specialized in both metalwork engineering and ‘gemstone magic’, which she believes to be similar enough to crystal work. She also has combat experience (preference with knives), and limited potion making experience, but no pilot experience. Currently, she works in the Crafter’s District as an assistant jewel shaper.

>Attached Statement: “My, but the idea of a Silver Eye is simply grand! I am rather devoted to my craft, and have a number of fallback skills, as you can see. My addition to your team, I believe, would yield more than a few benefits for the both of us, hmhm!”

--------------

(cont. 2/3)
>>
>>4084425
>Rivan Jharnyan: Lizardperson, it seems. There’s not a lot here, seems like they’re very direct: They’re ‘very good with mechanical devices’, stating 18 years in artificing. They also state to be skilled in combat, being former military. They also actually have some piloting experience, apparently, with ‘automated devices of their own creation, and ‘limited’ fighter craft experience. However, they don’t seem to have anything else of note; no experience with potions or crystal technology. Currently works at a repair shop.

>Attached Statement: I know I can get the job done. You need something made, I can make it. That’s all.

----------

>Cutter: A plant person of sorts, it seems. They called themselves Kisu. Three years working as a toy and magic entertainment goods mechanic, five working ‘an amazing job at the Alchemists Guild before coming here.’ Limited combat experience, she apparently spent two years as an explorer. No pilot experience, though she expresses interest in learning how to pilot. That’s all with her, it seems. Currently works as a guide in the Festival District.

>Attached Statement: “It’d be AWESOME if you could pick me since I pretty much feel like I can do anything you ask of me for the most part; I’m very much self-sufficient and a go-getter, and I’m hoping we can build a long-lasting relationship with a bevy of mutual growth for the both of us! I’m also extremely interested in learning how to fly and am more than willing to take lessons.”

------------

>Mirela: A strange, blue creature reminiscent of an elf. 10 years as a mechanic and inventor, and she has claimed to have created a ‘Tricraft’; something that can switch between aircraft, combat walker, and high speed vehicle configurations. A good thing is that she’s got flight experience as well; over thirty years in apparently both passenger and personal aircraft. She also apparently understands crystal mechanics (although she claims ‘beginner knowledge’), and basic alchemical processes as well. Limited combat experience, apparently; she has experience with combat in her walker, but not with melee or other weaponry. Currently unemployed, ‘between jobs’ as she claims.

>Attached Statement: “I’m a bit of a jack of all trades of a sort; if it comes to keeping a bird, any bird, in the sky, I know how to do it- and that includes making my own. I’m confident my skills are applicable to whatever you might need.”

(cont I mean 1/3, this is 2/3)
>>
>>4084469
-------------

>Belthyn Pumanath: Dwarven female, it seems. 25 years as a professional Artificer, and she includes crystal work with this, to boot. However, that’s the end of it. No real combat experience, though she ‘has a lot of natural strength’ and nothing about piloting or potions. She currently works as an attendant for a research building in the Learner’s District.

>Attached Statement: “Even here the quality of Dwarven made goods holds true, you know this, I know this. I uphold this standard like none other. Hire me and it’ll be at your fingertips, bar none!”

----------

>Ett: A kobold, lizard type. Interestingly enough, seems to claim 9 years as an Artificer, specializing in automated golems. Also includes crystal work in those years, but also intermediate potionmaking and ground craft piloting. Not one for combat in any form, however.

>Attached Statement: “I write this in the hopes that you might see past my diminutive exterior and consider my application on the grounds of my engineering experience and how it has allowed me to surpass that limitation. It would be extremely gratifying to be able to study my craft more and amongst individuals that may not care so much for propriety.”

...Hm.

Well, alright. Question is, though, out of these, who do you think is worth an interview?

>None
>All
>Choose Any
>>
And that's it for tonight. I really don't feel too hot.

Talk about middle management duties...interviews. hoo boy.
>>
>>4084470
>Mirela
>Rivan
>Nura
>Ett
>>
>>4084470
>Lezre
>Nura Qahtan
>Rivan Jharnyan
>Cutter
>Mirela
That's a lot more applicants than I expected. Their former occupation and the number of newbies implies that recent layoffs might have had a hand in it.
>>
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>>4084473
We're doing it in person, or in holo-video all fancy-like?
>>
>>4084425
>>4084469
>>4084470
>Lezre
>Nura Qahtan
>Rivan Jharnyan
>Cutter
>Mirela
>>
>>4084470
>Lezre
>Nura
>Cutter
>Belthyn Pumanath

Leaning on Lezre and Cutter. Personally I love Potioneers, and Lezre is good at weapon enhancements to boot, and can fight! Cutter is the best at Alchemy, and Nura is the most compatible with crystals.

Belthyn is the "all-in" option. She's the best out of the bunch when it comes to the main job, but no brownies checked.

We'll have to see more in the interviews. Sad that we aren't getting MGs, but can't ask for that much.
>>
>>4084499
Think I'll leave that to you guys. Could see it happening either way.

Okay NOW I'm going to bed.
>>
>>4084513
Nighty night! Can't wait until the interviews.
>>
>>4084470
>>4084491
This list fits my thoughts well.
>>4084499
I'd prefer in person, we can't test their combat skills otherwise, and it helps us read them better.
>>
>>4084505
i don't know about lezre. I've worked with several people that have said the same "Employment of this nature is what I’ve always dreamed of" and have always not only flaked, but completely embarrassed themselves out of the position.
>>
>>4084470
>Lezre
>Nura Qahtan
>Cutter
>Mirela

Ideally we'll bring Lorelei and Izumi to the interview as well. We should also notify the interviewees to bring something with them to demonstrate their abilities, be it one of their products or inventions.
>>
>>4084561
Personally, I think it'd be better to bring Owlia and Cylica instead because they'll be sharing the lab.
>>
>>4084470
>Ett
>Mirela
>Cutter
>Rivan Jharnyan

In-person interviews with some sort of way to demonstrate/verify their skills should work. Owlia should be there to provide scientific insight or something.
>>
>>4084561
>>4084564
Let's bring O&C instead. This is close to their field after all.
>>
>>4084568
i doubt cylica is that needed for this interview
>>
>>4084622
How so?
>>
>>4084629
cycilca was more on the imperium business side of things, while owlica was the scientist in charge. Also, the new hire will spend way more time with O than C, so it makes sense that Olica is the one looking at the hires, not cylica.
>>
>>4084672
Cylica is still a scientist - she wouldn't have convinced Owlia to join her side in that conflict otherwise. And since she got fired from her sidejob she'll be spending as much time in the lab as Owlia.
>>
>>4084470
>Lezre
>Rivan Jharnyan
>Mirela
>>
>>4084700
Sure hope owlia and cylica don't feel like we're trying to replace them.
>>
>>4084895
On the contrary, they are having the time of their lives in the Intersection judging from the previous posts, minus the recent turbulence. Both of them have expressed gratitude for our investment in their work in the past.
We're on good terms with them at the moment.
>>
>>4084470
>Nura
>Rivan
>Mirela

I also like to have the crystal duo with us on the interview. O&C is there to see if any of them can gel well with the interviewee and Miranda is for combat and general interview shit.
Maybe once we finally hire one of them, we should get them on a job with us, just to see how they fare on the outgoer thing.
>>
>>4084470
Either
>>Ett
or
>>Mirela
for fucksake we're clowncarring hard core right now. PLEASE JUST CHOOSE ONE.
>>
I just noticed. Literally NONE of the candidates have any experiences in Outgoing, yikes.
>>
>>4085925
For me outgoing isnt a priority, but getting that lab up and running is.
>>
>>4084476
>>4084491
>>4084501
>>4084505
>>4084534
>>4084561
>>4084567
>>4084842
>>4085884


Okay, seems like there'll be five interviews:

>Mirela
>Nura
>Rivan
>Lezre
>Cutter

In the interest of saving time, the majority of the interviews will be automated, but there'll be openings for putting in your own questions.

Writing.
>>
>>4086023
Welcome back, starting early today?
>>
>>4086045
Sickly, but recovering, so yeah.
>>
>>4086023

Well, there’s five that you figure might be decent picks. You wish they’d had Outgoer experience already, but you made it clear in the company type posting that this is an Outgoer company. So this is basically the best of what you got…

You send out an email to all of them stating that you’d prefer they come in for an in person interview tomorrow if able, and to bring ‘one device that you believe exemplifies your experience and skillset’ - in particular because you want to have a couple additional folks on your ‘board’...

“Wait, you’re hiring someone ELSE to help me, too?” Owlia asks in surprise, with Cylica raising an eyebrow with a smirk. “I mean, totes not saying no, just surprised, considering I got lil pup-girl bot to help, too.”

“That’s exactly why I decided to get a third,” you explain. “I want someone a bit more organic to back you up. And you seemed to mostly get along with the LAST Artificer we spent some time around, so, way I figure it…why not?”

She puts on a demure face, though you know it’s completely insincere. “Aww, thanks! Yeah, John was fun. Hopin’ whoever shows up has that kinda skill or better”

“I’ve no doubt they will,” Cylica assures. “Especially because we’ll be there to verify their ability, won’t we?” She looks to you- and blinks in surprise when you nod immediately.

“That’s the idea,” you explain. “We’ll be getting some interviewees tomorrow, so I want you girls to be there, too. It’ll be in the break room, morning.”

“Right, right, of course,” Cylica agrees. “We’ll be certain to assure their quality.” With that, she leans over, pinching Owlia’s cheek. “After all, you DO deserve the very best, don’t you?”

“Ow! H-hey!” she titters, and you figure that’s your cue to leave. Could stand to do some grocery shopping, anyway…

-------------------------

Alright. Interview time. Deep breathes, here we go. She didn’t say no to the time, so that means she should be in pretty soon…

...

...drat, you were kinda hoping she’d come in just as you thought that.

Instead, you’re left to stew in your own worries until Owlia and Cylica come in, just barely before she does.

The first interviewee, Mirela. Carrying a rather large suitcase with her, she’s just as the picture indicated. Vaguely resembles a blue elf, though with an elongated forehead with three ridges down the middle, running through a tiny nose. Her eyes are dark green, with a slightly purple iris, and they’re looking every which way as she steps in, before she briefly locks eyes with you. “Ah, hello! Would you happen to be Miranda Styles? I’m here for an interview.”

(cont.)
>>
>>4086160
“Yup. Come on in.” You escort her to the break room, where you quickly introduce the other two. “This is Owlia and Cylica. If you’re hired, you’ll be working with them.”

“Understood.” With that, you all sit down, and the interview begins.

“So, first thing’s first- what can you show us that would make us believe you to be a good fit for this group?”

To that, she puts her briefcase on the table. “Well, I brought my Tricraft if you want to see that, but aside from that…” She pulls out a medium sized device that looks something like a miniature copter drone and starts flipping it around to give you a look at all the parts. “This is Bip. It’s a semi-automated personal protection device. It uses a combination of electrical engineering and has a crystal inside it for power.”

“What kind of crystal?” Owlia immediately asks. Surprisingly, she’s got a stone-face on. None of her usual excitement.

“Just a shocking crystal,” she responds. “It’s more efficient than batteries and easily replaceable.”

“So what’s it capable of, again?” you continue on as Owlia takes hold of it, eying it carefully.

“Personal force field that can withstand heavy arms fire, limited cloaking capability, and heat generation,” she responds as she twists and plays with her fingers. “I used to use it for dangerous deliveries.”

You look to Owlia and Cylica, but they say nothing. Continuing on, then. “Alright, why here, then?”

She rubs her hands idly, shifting in her seat as she speaks. “I felt this company was compact enough to allow me some freedom in how I do things. A lot of the bigger places are really orderly, and I think I do my best lateral thinking when given ample room to maneuver.” Hm. Not sure how that should be taken…

“What do you think your biggest strength is, then?” you ask.

“Probably how I can be quick to adapt,” she responds. “I’m a fast learner, and if something isn’t working, I’m not afraid to try something else.”

“And your biggest weakness…?” Cylica adds with a narrowed eye.

You can see her purse her lips slightly, before taking a breath. “I tend to get frustrated at failure, but I’m working on that issue.”

"Define 'frustration'," Owlia intercedes. "Failure is a part of progress, so what gets you frustrated at it?"

"Just...I like to keep things shipshape and make sure that all's well. That I got everything under control. If it ain't that way, I...get a bit testy, is all. I fully understand that testing and experiments will often end up in failure, and I'm prepared to deal with that."

Hm…

>Three further questions.
>>
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>Hokuto the uber weeb made us a dog girl
Rather not surprised.
>>
>>4086176
Jesus CHRISTO that pic scared me.
>>
>>4086175
>ask about her magic aptitude
Our outfit is filled with magically augmented people and even robots, wouldn't make sense if our next hire couldn't use mana at some extent
>>
>>4086175
>"What's the extend of your combat capabilities in your walker?"
>*eye Cylica* "How would you rate your knowledge on Crystal Technologies right now?"
>"What services and products can you provide us if you have help from Owlia and Cylica here?"
>>
>>4086175
>>4086201
Oh, and ask her how she feels about working for morally dubious people and doing their dirty work
>>
>>4086175
>>"What's the extend of your combat capabilities in your walker?"
>>
>>4086175
>>4086203
gonna go with this
>>
>>4086175
I think we need some more personality questions, she seems like she might be a bit bossy based off her "frustration at failure" description. Wouldn't wanna hire a micromanager.
>>
>>4086225
Hmmm, we can draw the conclusions fairly easily based on how she answers I'm pretty sure.

>You look to Owlia and Cylica, but they say nothing. Continuing on, then. “Alright, why here, then?”

>She rubs her hands idly, shifting in her seat as she speaks. “I felt this company was compact enough to allow me some freedom in how I do things. A lot of the bigger places are really orderly, and I think I do my best lateral thinking when given ample room to maneuver.” Hm. Not sure how that should be taken…

>"Define 'frustration'," Owlia intercedes. "Failure is a part of progress, so what gets you frustrated at it?"

>"Just...I like to keep things shipshape and make sure that all's well. That I got everything under control. If it ain't that way, I...get a bit testy, is all. I fully understand that testing and experiments will often end up in failure, and I'm prepared to deal with that."

Based on these, I'd say she desires more power and freedom in her role and might have trouble cooperating with higher-ups and O&C. That's a lot of points docked.
>>
Seem like >>4086203 is the one with any kind of agreement.

Writing.
>>
>>4086175
“Right, a few more questions, then,” you decide. “What's the extent of your combat capabilities in your walker?"

She snorts as her hands tap the table with no rhythm. “Plenty enough. Once had to storm through a military base when the ship I was piloting crashed and we were taken captive. They commandeered my Tricraft, but me and some others were able to steal it back. I got voted to make a really big distraction while the others escaped.”

Sounds promising. “Alright, then.” With this, you eye Cylica briefly, who meets your own gaze before you ask. "How would you rate your knowledge on Crystal Technologies right now?"

You catch her pursing her lips briefly, then licking them before she speaks. “Pretty decent. I know a few things about how to use them, primarily as fuel sources, and I have an idea of how they function. I’m more than willing to learn more about them, though; no reason to not.”

It’s here that Cylica speaks up as she steeples her fingers. “So let’s say you’re working with myself and perhaps Owlia on the crafting of defensive crystals. Short-range, physical trauma repellant. During the process, the crystal cracks slightly on the outermost rim, and begins to dim, but only slightly, and only in the affected area. The crack does not widen, and there is no sound emitting from the crystal. Can you give me a rough idea of what most LIKELY has happened to the crystal?”

“Mmm…” she pauses for a few moments to think on it, rocking from side to side slightly. “...Iiiii’d think that there was a brief power fluctuation? Since the crack isn’t spreading or anything. Something about its construction may have been off?”

“It’s obvious that something went wrong. I’m asking you WHAT about its construction may have?” Cylica presses.

Mirela very briefly opens her mouth slightly, and you notice her eyes sharpen for a fraction of a second and her hand tense, before returning to normal, trying to think about the situation. “...I...would say the...tensile strength of the crystal’s outer rim wasn’t satisfactory- maybe it wasn’t cut right to keep the energy flow consistent.”

“Hmm.” She raises an eyebrow, but doesn’t correct her or agree with her. “Very well. Any further questions, Miranda? Owlia?”

“I got nothing,” Owlia responds.

“Just one more,” you note. "What services and products can you provide us if you have help from Owlia and Cylica here?"

“Oh!” she jumps up a bit. “Well, I guess you guys might have vehicles, right? Since you asked for pilots. I can do repairs and even custom jobs with enough material to work with. Aside from that, I’ll help in just about any way I can. Never been on an Outgoer job perse, but I’m used to flying into strange places and coming out unscathed!”

(cont.)
>>
>>4086294
“Understood.” With that, you stand up. “I think that’ll be all from us. You’ll hear back from us in a day or two in regards as to whether you’ve got the job or not.”

“Right. Thanks again for the opportunity!” She shakes your hand, and you escort her out- catching a glimpse of the Tricraft as well. It’s a near solid white for whatever reason, and resembles not so much a car as a surprisingly thick formula racer. The body is raised up about a foot or so off the ground, and the wheels are well to the side. She climbs in, and does...something; but the main body shifts, and the vehicle is suddenly moving a LOT of parts; it shifts into a dual legged walker in only a few seconds- and you can see an obvious machine gun barrel on the front of it. Clearly showcasing it, it starts stomping away.

“Hmph.” Cylica blinks. “So what did you think? I wasn’t all that impressed.”

“She’s...okay. Maybe. I’m worried about her attitude, mostly,” Owlia decides.

>I think she’s got a shot at it.
>Nah; she strikes me as not a good fit.
>>
>>4086297
>"Not at all that impressive, but we'll have to see just how the other candidates fare."
>>
>>4086297
>Nah; she strikes me as not a good fit.
>>
>>4086297
>I think she’s got a shot at it, but her attitude issues might be somewhat of a problem at the start
>>
>>4086297
>Seems like she really values her tricraft, shame it doesn't matter.
We should probably have asked about combat or piloting skills, we did mention those were factors
>>
>>4086313
She did say she managed to storm through a military base. That definitely counts for something.
>>
>>4086297
>I think she’s got a shot at it.
>>
>>4086313
Over thirty years in both passenger and personal aircraft suggests that she'll be a good getaway driver if she gets in, and she has proven herself to be a vehicle expert, land or air. But I'm iffy about how she struggled with Cyl's inquiry - Crystal Tech is one of the main skills we posted in the ad
>>
>>4086297
>I think she’s got a shot at it.
>>
>>4086297
Passable, but possible personality clash is a worry.
>>
>>4086297
>Skills: Passable; Attitude: Possible problem
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4086297
“Well,” you decide, “She’s...okay, yeah. There’s some things I’m worried about, but I think for now...we’ll keep her around.”

Cylica huffs slightly, but shrugs. “As you say.”

“Cool,” Owlia states simply. “When’s the next interviewee?”

“In half an hour. Let’s get a snack and be ready.”

The next one is Nura, and...hoo boy. A red and black devilish young lady, spaded tail and all, she’s got on a grey pencil skirt and a form fitting blouse and suit jacket to go with it...also large, round glasses. She’s also wearing a silver, engraved chain with a pendant on it with a purple gem in the center nestled square on her chest, as well as silver bangles around her wrists, neck, and legs. She gives a beaming smile as she walks up to you. “Ah, hello there! Begging your pardon, I’m looking for a Miss Miranda Styles?” Her voice is light, airy, and confident.

...Right. Well, you’re a bit warmed up, now. This should go smoother. Introductions are made, and seats are taken.

“Right, so, we asked you to bring along an example piece,” you start.

“Ah, that you did, and I would say that my best pieces are these that I wear,” she says, motioning to herself. “These pieces of fashion have all been crafted, bejeweled, and enchanted by myself.” She takes off the necklace, and presents it to you. “This necklace, when channeled properly, increases reaction time.” You pass it along to Owlia, who begins squinting at it in inspection and taking a closer look at it. “The bangles on my arms have engravings on them which assist in providing upper body defense, and the ones on my legs-” here she leans back, rather far back actually- and puts both legs up on the table equally with a wide smile. “Assist with speed.”

Huh. More than you were expecting- in more ways than one.

Cylica seems frozen for a moment, before blinking once and nodding. “I see. Please lower your legs off the table.” You have to agree with that, quickly.

“Not bad,” Owlia pipes up, turning the attention to her. “Decent craftwork, and the cut doesn’t interfere with the framework much. Sacrifices a little output for aesthetics, but considering your old line of work, I guess that’s excusable.”

“I believe there’s no reason a girl should never look her best,” she says easily, her body the epitome of calm.

“Right, then. So, you’re used to combat, would you say?” you gather.

She nods. “Oh, indeed. Honestly, in my youth I was a bit of a...well, I could handle myself well on the streets.” She grimaces slightly.

“Elaborate,” you insist. “You said in your application that you preferred knives. Were you a street thug, criminal, or otherwise before getting into Artificing?” You'd like to know something like this...
>>
>>4086442
You hear a *slap* as her tail hits the floor and she opens her mouth in a shaky smile. “Well, I mean, I may have had to do some surviving, but I assure you I never-”

“Hold that thought for a moment,” you interrupt. You can see where this is going. “I want you to be honest with me, because I don’t care if you were a career criminal before showing up here. I need to know your skills, regardless of where you got them from.” You lean slightly closer. “So, are you used to combat? And if so, how much and what kind?”

“Ah, er...if you’re certain…” she hedges, and you nod. Sighing, she continues. “I was an...assassin back...elsewhere.” A lot of that cheer suddenly gone, oddly. “Before I got into jewelry and fashion and whatnot, I was a rather dab hand as a...well, knife in the dark. Those days are well behind me now, however.”

“That so? Think you could still do it if you got asked?” you inquire. “We’re Outgoers- having prior experience in one of our major job types is hardly a bad thing.”

And her composure breaks even more, her eyes widening before she nods, with only a hint of nervousness. “Oh, I, well, I suppose I could, I’ve always thought to keep myself fit, if nothing else, and well…”

“We might get back to that,” you dismiss. Almost immediately you can see her untense somewhat. “Moving on, what would you call your biggest strength?” you decide on.

Her eyes light right back up. “Oh, my attention to detail, I’d say! I am rather proud of my skill is jewelcrafting, and it takes a great deal of wherewithal to obtain the best cut, the finest curve of metal.”

“And your biggest weakness?” you continue.

“Mmm…” her tail flickers up, and she plays with it as she considers the question. “I would saaaay...I have been told I am...not the best with personal space?” Her smile gets a hair forced again, and her head tilts slightly. “It is no concern when I’m working, I assure you.”

Right.

>Three more questions, if any.
>>
>>4086445
>can you control mana
>elaborate on your knowledge of potion-making - does that involve poisons as well?
>any other weapon preferences
>>
>>4086445
Certainly confident enough, she'd hit well with Lori.

>"Would you mind lending me one of your crafts? I'm a fighter myself, so I'd like to gauge how effective they are."
>"Do you have any magical capabilities?"
>"Elaborate on your knowledge of potion-making."
>>
>>4086445
Seems pretty unstable, but I suppose that's to be expected of devil blooded individuals. Also, did she flash us?
Given our line of work, having her start to immediately break down when we talk about combat would be bad.
The flashing is inappropriate, but we do have Lori and a literal succubus in Mono, although she doesn't act like one. So, if she can manage her urges as well as Lori does, maybe she'll have a party friend.
>can you control mana
>elaborate on your knowledge of potion-making
>What did the Guild of Amberlily provide service-wise, to un-guilded and guilded respectively?
>>
>>4086445
>"Do you have any magical capabilities?"
>"Elaborate on your knowledge of potion-making."
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4086445
>"Do you have any magical capabilities?"
>"Elaborate on your knowledge of potion-making."
Personality-wise, already seeing some problems, but her skills seem legit despite her preference for aesthetic over function
>>
>>4086445
>"Would you mind lending me one of your crafts? I'm a fighter myself, so I'd like to gauge how effective they are."
She won't be seeing blood much but we need to know how strong her stuffs are.
>>
>>4086445
"Have you any particular abilities, innate, magical or otherwise, that you would be willing to elaborate on?"
"Regarding weapons, you've mentioned knives, but are there any other ones you've have some experience with, and what's the most advanced one you've been able to handle with some confidence?"
"You've mentioned potion making. I presume that your experience gives you some knowledge on which ones are helpful and which ones are less so?"
>>
>>4086494
>Given our line of work, having her start to immediately break down when we talk about combat would be bad.
To be fair she seems to be queasy about her past, not the act of fighting itself. A big downside if she's going to be on the intersection most of the time, but on the other side that means that she'll be able to do mor r&d work.
>>
>>4086494
>The flashing is inappropriate, but we do have Lori and a literal succubus in Mono, although she doesn't act like one.
Well, it seems like the roles got reversed. mono is a very diluted succubus, -which in theory places her closer to the tiefling territory- while the tiefling here is basically a succubus.
>>
>>4086445
“So, then,” you continue. “Can you control mana? It sounds like you have some experience with it, at least...”

“Quite,” she nods., as her eyes stray from you momentarily. “As...as I said, I was an assassin, and so a lot of what I’m capable of generally revolves around making my presence unnoticed. Stepping lightly, making people overlook my presence, camouflage, blending into the shadows, that sort of thing.” Right. Sounds kind of like Lorelei but with more of an outright stealth focus. She quickly resumes, however, focusing again on you. “But I’m also versed in supporting magic! Increasing the hardiness of people, helping individuals with fortune and whatnot, even healing to an extent. It’s why I can make my items so useful,” she insists. “The effects are minor, but long lasting.”

You nod. Fair enough. “Alright. Elaborate on your knowledge of potion-making."

“Ah, right! Well, I’m not as skilled in that as jewelcrafting, but I’d taken it up a while ago after there was a bit of a craze for fashionable potion containers. I’d thought it a good idea to be able to save people money by offering both phases of creation. It rather helped my bottom line, I think!” She grins at this. “I’ve learned the basics of potioneering, though I can’t make anything truly outstanding- yet. I’m confident in the theory, however, and while what makes a good health potion here is likely much different than...before...I’m confident that since I’m aware of the general process, it’s just a matter of recognizing what new ingredients I may need.”

“Could you do it here?” you follow up.

“With the right tools, I’ve no doubt!” she confirms.

“Any further questions, Cylica? Owlia?” you ask.

Cylica is inspecting the pendant as well, but says nothing, merely holding up a hand. After a moment, she nods slightly, handing it back. “None.”

“Right, then.” You suppose that went...mostly well. Standing up, you shake her hand, as do the others. “Thanks for your time; we’ve still got some interviews to go, but we’ll call you after we’ve made our decision.”

“Thank you! I do hope I can get the job here- it seems like it would be quite interesting.” Her smile is a bit wider for a moment, before you escort her out the building.

As she leaves, you sigh.

“Her crystalwork seems acceptable, if that one stone is any indication,” Cylica says as you step back in the room “...but I’m less than thrilled about her...obvious predilections.”

“Wait, did I miss something?” Owlia says, blinking. “She seemed nice enough to me!”

> “I mean...Lorelei. I think she’ll be a good candidate.”
> “I don’t think there’s more room for someone like that with us.”
>Other

(Last for tonight.)
>>
>>4086541
>“I mean...Lorelei. I think she’ll be a good candidate.”
>>
>>4086541
Thanks for running!

> “I mean...Lorelei. I think she’ll be a good candidate.”
Owlia is such a nerd holy smokes

Mana control; stealth focus means she can get out of the way fast, no problems with her psyches - except the being a near succ part and having problems with her past (but this applies almost to all transplants I think). Reliable jewels that give permanent stats boosts. She's solid.
>>
>>4086541
> Look at Owlia for a moment, then look back at Cylica
> "Pretty sure you don't have to worry too much, Cy."
> “I mean...Lorelei. I think she’ll be a good candidate.”
>>
>>4086541
> “I mean...Lorelei. I think she’ll be a good candidate.”
Her skills are solid and she seems passionate about her craft.
>>
I liked writing Nura. We'll see how the next few play out tomorrow.

She was actually based off an old D&D character concept for a TT game that never really got rolling. With some tweaks, of course.
>>
>>4086541
She's better than the last applicant we had, her flaws seem like they'd be manageable. Or easy cause to replace her.
That said, let's see about our other applicants.
>>
>>4086571
G'night Handler, sleep well
>>
>>4086574
Is she? The first one had attitude problems and a solid background, while this one has a decent background, is reluctant to fight and can make situations incredibly awkward for everyone but her and owlia. Both have their pros and heavy cons.
>>
>>4086541
>Cylica is inspecting the pendant as well, but says nothing, merely holding up a hand. After a moment, she nods slightly, handing it back. “None.”
Cylica was testing the pendant there. She confirmed its' quality.
Nura's one of my picks.
>>
>>4086582
I would note Mirela's combat experience story began with her being captured, not generally a good sign.
>>
>>4086594
It was just one story. We'd actually have to place everyone through combat in order to see their true potential.
>>
>>4086541
>Not as strong a background for what we want, and perhaps a touch too forward for the socially aware. Her reluctance regarding violence is a mark against too.
>>
I'm glad we got to interview Nura too. In person she seems more competent than the impression I got from her application (which was why I didn't pick her for that vote).
If she just dislikes killing rather than combat in general then we've already got another outgoer like that on our team and getting around it probably won't be a big problem.
>>
>>4086541
>Her skills as an Artificer seem decent enough, and while her infiltration skills are useful, she seemed rather hesitant to participate in combat.

It would be a shame if we got another Izumi in terms of personality- though this one seems more like she's trying to leave the assassin life behind, rather than being a diehard LG.
>>
>>4087202
that might work to our advantage. she is reluctant to kill, which means she'd have a smaller pool of decent contracts to pick from, which means she'll be more time at the lab.
>>
Sorry, still getting over my sickness. Writing shortly.
>>
>>4088031
Hey Handler, I'm playing Daemon X Machina on PC right now (it's getting a lot of sales btw). I can already see where you took inspirations for the Seither world.
>>
>>4088036
Yeah, I wasn't the most original there.
>>
You can’t really find major fault with that. Sure, the impromptu show was a bit much, but… “I mean...Lorelei,” you say as you shrug. “I think she’ll be a good candidate, provided she keeps a lid on it like she says she can.”

“Mm.” Cylica doesn’t seem convinced, but lets the topic drop. “When’s our next potentiate?”

-----------------

The guy is big, grey, and scaley, as expected. He’s also in work coveralls, complete with goggles on his forehead and hoisting a big box over his shoulder. “Hey. You the team givin’ interviews?”

“That we are,” you state.

“Hmph.” It’s light, but you heard that, and you’re not sure of the look he gives you. “Right, then,” he growls out. “Name’s Rivan. A pleasure. Ready whenever you are.”

“So, Mr. Riven. We asked for you to bring an example of your work,” you start off, eying the box. “Mind starting with that?”

“Right.” He nods, and shifts open the lid, bringing out what seems to be a small suit of classical knight armor, although with various pieces notably enlarged or grinded to allow wires passage. “Piece o’ tech I been workin’ on for a while. General all-purpose combat suit. Increases speed, strength, alla that. Tryin’ to refine the craft.” At that, both Cylica and Owlia seem interested. “Uses the wearer’s mana to power the systems. Can deliver basically a 233% increase over the user’s natural power if everything’s cohesive.”

“Ooh. What’s your solution for overdraw and overheating, then?” Owlia immediately asks.

He shrugs. “Vents and small coolant systems, mostly Tryin’ ta figure out how to work ice magic into the thing.. Woulda preferred to have the excess bleed off or go into a backup system instead of inducing frame stress issues, though. So its just a fer now measure.”

Cylica lightly nods her head. “Interesting. Can we take a look inside further?”

“Nope.” He says it so bluntly and plainly even you’re taken aback a bit. “My own design and layout, even my own alloy mix. Not happening.”

“...Fair enough.” You can tell she’s not happy- neither is Owlia, for that matter. But they’re not arguing the point.

“Moving on,” you decide. “What kind of combat experience do you have, exactly?”

“Five years combat engineer, was in the shit for a good while,” he mentions quickly enough. Construction and demolitions both. I know my way ‘round a gun, gals, don’t worry. Done my share of hole an’ base clearin’ and bridge bombin’ and whatnot.”

“Same source of your piloting experience?” you affirm.

He nods. “Yup. Had to play evac driver more than a couple times, or jus’ plain evading shit tryin’ ta kill us.”

Hm. Not bad. “Alright, then. All that considered, what would you say is your biggest strength?”

“I know damn well how to keep cool under pressure,” he says easily. “An’ as for weakness, prob’ly my bedside manner. I ain’t a whole lot for friend makin’.”

Huh. Well, considering that he stated no potion experience or real crystal experience…

>Any further questions? (Up to three)
>>
>>4088145
>any other fields of expertise?
>what about your magical capabilities?
>>
>>4088145
> "How enthusiastic are you with Crystal Tech?"
> "Your magical talents, tell us about them"
> "I'm seeing that you're not the one to share their private works, but would you be willing to put that aside? Working with a team with that mentality is not advisable."
>>
>>4088145
Dropping my vote for >>4088157, seeing few peeps have spoken up.
>>
>>4088157
>I'm seeing that you're not the one to share their private works, but would you be willing to put that aside? Working with a team with that mentality is not advisable.
This is not about sharing private works, but about NDA's, common sense and corporations in an ancap world. You really want to keep something like what riven is making under a lot of protection in a world like the intersection, less you want a greedy corporation to steal the tech and copyright it under their name -even if you did that first-.
>>
>>4088186
Fair point actually, still I want to gauge his cooperativeness. Asking like that might be a little too blunt.
>>
Getting the picture. Writing.
>>
>>4088191
I get that he's blunt. But so far he doesn't seem uncooperative, hes just the polar oposite of nura.
>>
>>4088186
>>4088191
>Asking like that might be a little too blunt.
Miranda's blunt. And we can chalk that up as first time reviewer's mistake doho'!
>>
>>4088186
>>4088191
It'd sound better if we added "if you were hired" in the end of that question. But yeah, I don't see him showing us how that suit works any time soon.
>>
>>4088200
That's not bein blunt. That's not understanding the world you are living in. But whatever.
>>
>>4088210
It's perfectly understandable why he doesn't want us to show how it works, but we DID ask to bring something that'd verify his ability. He should've brought something he's not afraid of showcasing.
>>
>>4088219
You got a point there. (Although its still impressive by itself all the technologies he has developed on his own)
>>
>>4088208
Handler do this please!
>>
>>4088223
Man, that lizard fucked up. There's so little to learn about his capability just from showing us how it looks - could've brought a couple of fucking photos and it'd had the same effect. So far we can only trust his word - and even then he tries to play a hardass a bit too much.
>>
>>4088145
>>4088157
>>4088177
Alright, then. You should at least posit the question to him. "Alright, how enthusiastic are you with crystaltech?"

He shrugs. “Haven’t much dealt with it, to be honest. Never saw a need. I know some straight enhanctments an’ I’ve done the occasional repair job on somethin’ with somethin’ shiny in it. I ‘kin learn it if I gotta- pretty sure, at least.” That doesn’t get much response from either girl on your side.

“Then why not tell us more about your magical talents?” you inquire. Maybe he’ll make up for it through that?”

He shrugs. “Like I said. Enchantments. Some reinforcement tricks. Know how ta keep magic in a few things. Batteries, like. Mostly extra durability, fer me. I know a couplea others, though. Better accuracy sometimes. Sometimes engravin’s, but those I figure are a waste o’ time an energy. Mostly just good fer style.”

Well, considering you’re working with Sigils…moving on. "I'm seeing that you're not the one to share their private works, but would you be willing to put that aside were you hired?”

“Ya mean give ya all of my stuff?” He shakes his head. “Nah, no way. Not happening. I kin’ do work with others, help with the conceptin’ and the buildin’ and all that from scratch, that’s fine. Heck, I’d be willin’ to take what I learned, maybe build off that to make better for you than what I got. But what’s done on my time, I’d like it ta stay mine, alright?”

Hmph. “Alright, then. Thank you for your time, I think that’ll be about it. We’ll call you once we’ve made our decision.”

“Fair.” You shake hands, and he’s gone just as quickly and silently as he showed up.

“I do not like him.” Cylica says simply.

“Ditto.” Owlia frowns.
>>
Wow, I entirely forgot the options.

>>4088233
> “Then it’s unanimous. He’s a pass.”
> “He seemed confident if nothing else. Might surprise us.”
> Other
>>
>>4088236
> “Then it’s unanimous. He’s a pass.”
>>
>>4088236
>"seems like an excellen engineer and pilot -if his claims are true-, but i can definitely see him clashing with you two. Pass"
>>
>>4088236
> “Then it’s unanimous. He’s a pass.”
He didn't respond well to our hard question. Too blunt (and boring), even for us.
>>
>>4088236
> “Then it’s unanimous. He’s a pass.”
He didn't sound military at all. More like a grease monkey from a gang that had to do some custom jobs.
>>
>>4088236
> “Then it’s unanimous. He’s a pass.”
I wonder if last one made him looked too bad to our eyes. But he did bring a WIP that he was not willing to showcase. Oh well.

Still that suit, if it does what he stated, is impressive. If he gets in, will he even let us use it?
>>
>>4088250
Nah, the last question is extremely poorly worded and in layman terms it basically means "if you work with us would you let us take claim of all your personal works?" Of course he was gonna say no.
>>
>>4088258
*sigh*He is not going to share his stuffs whether the cases are then. That, kinda docks a lot of points.
I REALLY forgot about how those corporate speeches worked. Sorry about that.
>>
>>4088236
>> “Then it’s unanimous. He’s a pass.”
>>
>>4088236
>He fits the bill in a lot of areas, but if he can't play nice with others, then we'll have to pass.
>>
>>4088236
You shake your head. “Then it’s unanimous. He’s a pass.

Cylica nods in approval. “Grand. Two more to go, then, let’s hope they’re more accomodating.”

“She should actually be here, soon,” you mention, checking the time. “I remember thing for the last ones to just kinda go for it and wrap it-”

*Thunk thunk thunk thunk* “Pardon me!” You look to see a...rather large orcess bounding towards you. She’s got long brown hair and large, coke bottle glasses framed by a rather traditional mage’s cloak, though you can see jean shorts and overalls beneath it as it flaps. She’s carrying a large bag over her shoulder, as well. “Terribly sorry, I wuz afeared that I’d p’haps end up late, so, made all due ‘aste!” She takes a deep bow, which STILL leaves her taller than you. “Lezra o’ the Gorluck tribe, atcher service! Not too much ta presume this is the Silver Eye Solutions innerview, roight?”

...Her voice is FAR higher than you expected...and that accent. “Right, then. You’re in the right place and at the right time. Come on in and we’ll get you seated.” You usher them in- and manage to catch Owlia and Cylica just managing to school their expressions back into something resembling professional and not gobsmacked.

----------

As you sit down, she nearly trips over the chair, tottering on one leg and causing all of you a moment of panic. “Sorry, sorry!” She quickly apologies and manages to take her seat afterwards, though she’s clearly embarrassed.

Well, best to not let that get in the way. “Right, so first thing’s first. Practical showcase. You said you were skilled in weapon enhancements, and we advised to bring samples of your work, I believe?”

“Right, right!” She quickly swings her bag up, gently placing it on the table. The thing’s only a little smaller than her. “Here’s a few o’ me best! Liiiike- oh!” She quickly draws out what looks to be a Zweihander of a sword, though there’s a clear modification on the hilt; some kind of trigger on either side, just under the handguard, and there’s a clear vial of some sort inside the pommel. Right above the handguard, however, is some sort of small...motor? It’s cylindrical, but there’s a number of bits and bobs on it that you’re not certain about. “This here’s one o’ me favrits! I calls it the BOOM SWORD!”

The three of you lean back at the MASSIVE lungpower she demonstrates, though you do have the wherewithal to ask further. “Why that?”

“Cause, you pull the trigger ‘ere…” she points towards the rear one, the smaller one closer to the thumb. “...an’ that’ll give tha motor a spin and push tha juice up! Gets tha blade nice an’ hot! Then ya hit THIS un…” And here she points to the bigger trigger, easy for the pointer finger to get to and still keep a grip on the handle. “And next thing ya know, BOOM! Maximum swing speed, and yer cuttin’ through stuff like a knife through butter!”

(cont.)
>>
>>4088343

...Huh. Well then. “You said you don’t have much experience with crystals, but…”

She leans forward, creaking the table a bit due to her girth. “But I know tha theory! I s’pect I could work it into my designs! Mostly I use potions fer this kinda stuff, at the moment.”

“So what this sword uses is your own?” Owlia asks.

“Yup!” she says proudly. “Tha Juice is my own lil’ concoction. Not really safe fer ingestion, but it’s great for coatin’ weapons and tools and whatnot. Makes em run better, smoother, all that!”

“Interesting,” Cylica notes. “Have you anything else like that?”

“Oh, sure, stuff for all sortsa effects!” she claims. “Like, ‘ere!” She draws out a small tomahawk, which also has some kind of device running up the back end of it, and a trigger behind the head. “This one makes it so that it kin blind a fella mid-flight. Hit the button, and the vial inside activates after a second, and bam!”

Hmmm… “Alright. So I take it you’ve tested these out before yourself?” you inquire as you take the tomahawk from her..

“Sure ‘ave!” she admits. “Work like charms, each one!”

You look back to her and everyone else. “Mind if I…”

She blanches, but nods. “Oh, geez, that’s a powerful light, just gonna warn ya!”

“Right. Clear.” You press the button, and Lezre immediately turns away. And sure enough, you hear a small hum, and after a second, you’re forced to look away as a BRIGHT light emits from the top of the tomahawk. That would certainly do it.

“Sooo...?” she asks after everyone deems it safe to look back.

“Interesting. So, moving on for now. What would you say is your biggest strength, all in all?” you ask. Feeling repetitive, really, even if you know it isn’t.

She smiles at that. “Oh, folks tend to think I’m great ta have ‘round! Says I can be the life o’ the party! And I’m a quick study- have to be, where I went ta school!”

“And your biggest weakness?” Cylica asks with a raised eyebrow.

“Oh, uh...I’m not exactly the, uh...best on me feet? ‘Parently I trip more than the average. Not a fan o’ heights, either, but I ain’t expectin’ to have ta deal with that, right?”

>Three more questions?
>>
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>>4088345
She made a RED QUEEN? That's high points from me.

>"Have you worked on modern weapons before? Or do you prefer more traditional ones?"
>"Did you have a history of combat before getting into the Intersection?"
>*shows her the Gravitic Flamebringer*"What would you make of this? If it were up to you, how would you improve it?"
>>
>>4088345
I don't even know what to ask and feel like I got more questions for Handler instead.
Is she based on someone's WOW RP character?
>>
>>4088350
Okay, let's go with these
>>
>>4088357
Supporting.
>>
>>4088345
>>4088350
If possible, add in
>Are you magically capable?
Pretty old question, should had added in mana control to our ads.
>>
>>4088345
UUUUGH she devil may cry'd the sword.
>how willing are you to learn crystal techniques?
>do you have any magical capabilities?
>>
>>4088350
Supportin'
>>
Interesting questions. Writing! Last for tonight.
>>
Barring cutter which we still need to interview, i think our bet bets lie with nura and mirela -specially nura-. She might not know how to fly a plane and is reluctant for combat, but we can talk with her about going into missions as a support and her jewler background can help us create custom items for specific missions and will help conver owlia's designs from an utilitarian tool to a more marketable product.
>>
>>4088375
I second that
>>
>>4088375
I agree on that, the tools and skill set she provide are very versatile, and if we ever get some manufacturing power, we can commercialize the team's products. Not very punchy, but that's not her main job.
>>
>>4088375
I agree, Nura and Lezra are the ones who got the most potential for now. shame we have to pick only one, but if Nura doesn't get picked we should have her contact for commissioning custom items.
>>
>>4088411
You know, lezra is actually my least preferred candidate right now. She seems to know nothing about crystalworks, the one thing that sets her appart is something that the other candidates can do in a better way (either with crystals or enhancements) and worst of all, she's clumsy. That will anger c&o to no ends and will eventually force us to get another person.
>>
>>4088419
Lezra is the most preferred candidate for me though. She brings both experience with weapon crafting and potion alchemy. Her clumsiness doesn't matter if she doesn't step out of the lab where agility with the feet isn't needed, only dexterity with hands.
>>
>>4088345
Well, not too bad so far. "So then, have you worked on modern weapons before, or do you prefer more traditional ones?"

She tilts her head a bit in a kind of half shrug. “Weeeell, I’ve messed wit a revolver or two, and tha mechanisms are neat, but back ‘fore the Cataclysm, I wasn’t much fer firearms; didn’t really have more than single-fire where I was from. They was just really gettin’ popular, y’know?” You nod, that’s fair enough. “Mostly, I think guns are a bit...much...but, I’m real fascinated by tha projectile propulsion systems- heck, that’s where I got the idea fer botha those. Was thinkin’ about a system to facilitate quick drawin’ a sword in tha same style, but I ain’t much sure how well it’ll work considerin’ it might cause an unstable draw in whoever’s doin’ the cuttin’.” she shrugs, but you see Owlia nodding to herself, eyes clearly elsewhere.

Moving on. "So, did you have a history of combat before getting into the Intersection? You said something to that extent earlier..."

And she blushes. “Eehh...more or less, aye. I mean…” she motions to herself. “Weren’t exactly born wit a silver spoon in me mouth. First ten years of me life was basically banditry that I didn’t know were banditry. Just what I was taught. Even at ten I was a pretty beefy lass, y’know? Never really left me, and it’s usually tha first thing folks thing of, lookin’ at me. Even WIT the glasses.” She takes them off, waves them around briefly, before snapping them back on. “Got lucky gettin’ outta that life, I did. Anyway, once I got inta the academy, was mostly controlled excursions an’ whatnot. Never was picked last fer huntin’ teams, tha’s fer sure.” She doesn’t seem all that enthused about it, but she’s at least not shying away from it.

"Let’s see...what else…” you look to Owlia and Cylica, both investigating the weapons given them plus a bit. Actually, that makes you wonder. “Hold on a moment.” You don’t have your bag with you, but it’s a short jog to the locker to get it. When you get back, her eyes widen once you pull out the Flamebringer, to Owlia and Cylica’s surprise. “Tell me, what would you make of this? If it were up to you, how would you improve it?"

(cont.)
>>
>>4088443
“Huh! That looks right nice…” she says as she takes it carefully. It’s a minute or so of inspection before she starts talking. “Well, it all looks solid- seems like the gem weren’t an original part of the design, since I can see the welds and clamps, and the handle grips ain’t spaced right fer that. Modded, then, yeah. Dunno what stone this might well be, though...”

“Gravity-based,” you answer. “Channeling mana causes it to generate a small gravitational field. Any familiarity with that?”

She shakes her head as she keeps looking it over. “Nope, but I’d love ta change that! Anyway, Iiiii’d say if I had full run o’ what to do with this piece...well, not too much really. I think I’d wanna see if I could increase the gravity field, or p’haps use it ta move a lil engine inside, mebbe generate an electrical charge. Don’t wanna throw off tha weight too much, honestly.” She hands the sword back to you.

“Interesting. For the record, this thing already emits fire as well- but that’s not a mark against you, I just forgot to mention.” Stowing it away, you beckon her forth. “Thank you very much for your time. If we have any news for you, we’ll call.”

“No prob! Thanks for takin’ the time out to ‘ave me!” She shakes your hand vividly, and she’s out before long as well.

“She seems...adequate, though I STRONGLY question her unfamiliarity with crystals.” Cylica admits as she turns to her beloved. “Owlia, dear?” To your surprise, though, she has a conflicted look on her face. “Owlia? You don’t approve?”

“Eehhh...” she rocks her head from side to side. “Iunno why, but something in my gut doesn’t settle with her…I mean, she SEEMS good at what she does and her personality is nice- like, no complaints there, but...dunno.”

“Could you work with her?” Cylica asks seriously. “I mean obviously if you don’t approve, I don’t approve.”

“I’mmmm pretty sure I could work with her,” Owlia responds steadily. “Just...I dunno.” She shakes her head, as though clearing the cobwebs. “Something just prickles my gut about her, but I know whatever it is, it’s probably illogical. I can ignore it. Or better yet figure it out and get rid of it.” She blinks one, a sudden blanch on her face “...Wait, am I going to need surgery? Crap.”

> “Well...if you think you can work whatever it is out, I have to say I think she’s on the shortlist.”
> “Look, if you don’t want her, consider it a no-go. It’s YOUR lab, honestly. You can’t not be comfortable in it.”
>>
>>4088429
>Her clumsiness doesn't matter if she doesn't step out of the lab where agility with the feet isn't needed, only dexterity with hands.
>oh, let me carry these two corrosove agents to this other table
>oops, i tripped ans splashed the mixtures into the expensive lathe in front of me and now they are mixing and creating toxic fumes.
At least only cylica is the only one that really cares about nura flashing her and mirela's attitude problems have a slim chance of bringing breakthoughts via lateral thinking and though you are right on the weapon department stuff, its easier to buy the tools for a jewel crafter than a weapon smith.
>>
>>4088429
>>4088419
Her craft looks solid, but thag clumsiness makes her unfit both for the lab and outgoing. I feel like if she didn't have this condition then she'd be working in Crafter district instead of being a bouncer. She'll do more good there, doing custom order as a Crafter-apprentice, instead of being an Outgoer. Might recomend her to those dwarves if they're willing to put up with her shortcomings.
>>
>>4088353
She's VERY loosely based on a Guild Wars 2 RP character, actually.
>>
>>4088446
> “Look, if you don’t want her, consider it a no-go. It’s YOUR lab, honestly. You can’t not be comfortable in it.”
>"I'm keeping her contact though."
>>
>>4088446
Oh, and thanks for running!
>>
>>4088446
>Look, if you don’t want her, consider it a no-go. It’s YOUR lab, honestly. You can’t not be comfortable in it

>>4088460
That actually explains a lot of things.
>>
>>4088446
> “Look, if you don’t want her, consider it a no-go. It’s YOUR lab, honestly. You can’t not be comfortable in it.”
Somehow this orcress is more than her looks, Owlia picked that up but we didn't.
Unfamiliarity with modern weaponries plus slim to none crystal knowledge and being clumsy. Shame, she was eager to prove herself, and she knows her stuffs.
>>
Thanks for playing everyone, I'm out and hopefully I can GET MORE THAN 2 HOURS OF SLEEP TONIGHT I HATE BEING SICK.

>>4088471
...Wait, really?
>>
>>4088474
Yup. Good night handler!
>>
>>4088446
>> “Look, if you don’t want her, consider it a no-go. It’s YOUR lab, honestly. You can’t not be comfortable in it.”
> "Maybe keep her number for some contract work, and see how she does with the job."
>>
...damn, the more i think about it, i'd like to have nura and mirela on the team. Mirela as our main pilot and mechanic and nura in the r&d and design department, maybe even as a tutor for the most rookie members as well. Who better to fight against or train for quick takedowns than an assassin?
>>
>>4088446
>> “Well...if you think you can work whatever it is out, I have to say I think she’s on the shortlist.”
I very much see plenty of practical usefulness if she got added for new equipment.

That and I think I can get why Owlia doesn't like her as much. Owlia clearly likes to add onto existing designs to find ways to get more new functions and advantages, and is more about understanding how new things work than anything else.

Lezra on the other hand seems to work from an entirely different direction in that she goes for practicality and a working production mindset that revolves around properly integrating the tested technology into the design while minimizing any flaws before producing the item. Thus a more down to earth engineer than Owlia who seeks to be more experimental.

I wonder if Owlia was criticized by people like Lezra back in her home dimension for being too reckless.
>>
>>4088473
>Owlia picked that up but we didn't.
Maybe the fact that she dropped her accent halfway through the interview? It was pretty heavy at the start.
>>
>>4088446
>“Look, if you don’t want her, consider it a no-go. It’s YOUR lab, honestly. You can’t not be comfortable in it.”
If she doesn't feel like it, I guess.

>>4088524
>>4088535
Shit, you guys are right. Something feels odd.
>>
>>4088446
> “Look, if you don’t want her, consider it a no-go. It’s YOUR lab, honestly. You can’t not be comfortable in it.”
>>4088535
>>4088549
>“Huh! That looks right nice…” she says as she takes it carefully. It’s a minute or so of inspection before she starts talking. “Well, it all looks solid- seems like the gem weren’t an original part of the design, since I can see the welds and clamps, and the handle grips ain’t spaced right fer that. Modded, then, yeah. Dunno what stone this might well be, though...”

>“Gravity-based,” you answer. “Channeling mana causes it to generate a small gravitational field. Any familiarity with that?”

>She shakes her head as she keeps looking it over. “Nope, but I’d love ta change that! Anyway, Iiiii’d say if I had full run o’ what to do with this piece...well, not too much really. I think I’d wanna see if I could increase the gravity field, or p’haps use it ta move a lil engine inside, mebbe generate an electrical charge. Don’t wanna throw off tha weight too much, honestly.” She hands the sword back to you.

Mid way accent slip. She's hiding something? Together with Owlia's gut feelings, I'm not too hot betting the spot on spot.
>>
>>4088633
Maybe its just like how yoda loses his backwards speen when shot gets serious?
>>
>>4088460
NGL, I thought the orcess was going to be an Orca morph not a Orc.
>>
>>4089100
...Y'know, I can oddly understand that.

(Run will start in about 2 or so hours- I'm feeling better, so I need to desperately get some outside errands done that I haven't been able to.)
>>
>>4089363
That's 2 2-hours already. Something came up?
>>
>>4089929
Yeah, sorry. I was kept for WAY longer than I expected.
>>
>>4088446
Well. As much as you liked her, honestly, that’ll settle it right there. “Look, if you don’t want her, consider it a no-go,” you say, shaking your head. “It’s YOUR lab, honestly. You can’t not be comfortable in it.” It’s a shame, she had the makings of an interesting lab associate...but you suppose that she did have her faults, including whatever it was that threw Owlia off about her.

“She’s right,” Cylica says as she strokes the back of Owlia’s head. “It sounds like that’s a ‘no’ to me. Let us think no more about her and move on, shall we? Perhaps the last of them is more worthwhile.”

“Well, we’ve got a little bit of time before her. She had to come in a bit later because her current job’s still ongoing,” you mention. “Does guided tours around a few spots in the Festival District.”

“Oh, neat, if irrelevant,” Owlia figures. “Wonder what she shows. Mebbe I’ll ask.”

----------

Cutter is...a particular rarity in terms of Intersection denizens. She’d listed her species as ‘flora fauna’, which was a fancy term for ‘plant-person’. And while you’d noticed the purple petals around the round, green, smiling face, you’d not really expected the...well, she looks like an ambulatory flower, indeed. A flowery, particularly feminine body in a pith hat, white pants, and light blue shirt, with a backpack on her back. “Hellloooo!” She’s waving wildly, and her face has the EXACT same expression as in the picture as she runs up to you. “Hi! Is this Silver Eye Solutious?”

You nod. “That it is. You’re Cutter, then?”

She nods repeatedly. “Cutter Highwine, yes ma’am! Here for the Artificer position interview!”

Alright, then. Here’s hoping. “Great. Come on in and we’ll get started.”

(cont.)
>>
>>4090085
She hops into her seat, looking particularly eager. “So, we gave you instruction to bring a device that you feel shows your skillset. What’s your offer?”

“Weelll, I noticed you said skill with crystals and potions and stuff, so I have a couple things I’ve messed with!” With that, she takes her backpack, and pulls out a small, wood and brass, totem-like device. There’s a small, wide-topped gem on the top of it, surrounded by three valves connected to pipes that feed into various places on the totem. “This here’s one of my personal favorites! It’s a Stationary Thaumaturgic Emitter Machine! Or a STEM as I call it! It can ‘record’ certain spells using a crystal framework, and then cast them automatically in intervals until the power runs out!”

“Oooh, that’s pretty neat,” Owlia says, leaning in. “What kinds of crystals did you use to make this?”

“Well, they’re my own homegrown types, actually!” she beams. “Most crystals have an innate energy to them, but mine are sort of ‘half-done’. Normally, that leads to instability issues, but I use a framework of- see these little switched and valves here? They regular pressure that’s being put on the crystals inside to make sure they don’t shatter easily. They don’t have innate energy in them- they still haven’t stabilized and coalesced, so that leaves them open to issues normally. But, through this crystal up top here, it’ll transfer a majority of whatever energy is being input to the crystals. The first valve allows you to shift which gem and thus which spell is active. The other two are for emission balance.”

“Wow. I really want to take a look inside that.” Owlia says eagerly as she grabs towards it.

“Sure!” To your surprise, she pushes it towards Owlia. “It’s a really neat tool- although I don’t think it’s a good idea to do it if the gems have any magic in them. Explosions, y’know? Unless you like bloody and spontaneous piercings!” She giggles.

...Wasn’t expecting that response. “Alright theen…” you venture on. “So, what’s your potion experience?”

“Oh, I’ve made a few things! Strength potions, health potions, defense potions, potions of brillant light, potions of firebreathing, potions of healthy growth, all those!” She places a number of small containers as she names them off; wooden mini-jars, almost.

“Impressive variety. So what would you say is your biggest strength, all in all?” you ask, looking over all the tools!”

“I’m optimistic and I’m not afraid to try new things! I love people and nature, too!” She squees.

“Hm. And your biggest weakness?” you ask.

She smiles slightly less, as she considers it. “Uhhhhh...I...well, some people say I’m weird, I guess?” She shrugs.

(cont 2.)
>>
>>4090090
“Weird how?” you ask.

“Well, I think people think I’m too happy. I don’t understand the problem with happiness, though!” She shrugs again. Seems like she really believes it.

“So, what’s the extent of your combat experience?” you continue.

“Uhh, mostly defending myself from monsters,” she admits. “I, uh...I’m not strong, physically. I know nature magic, though. So I kinda just prefer to throw up a wall of thorns or an itchy cloud or something like that and run away. Unless someone's threatening nature in a big way, I guess. Then I try to get a bear or something to eat them.”

...well. Unfortunate. But you won’t ruin it right now.

>Up to three further questions?
>>
Oh, shes a sociopath. Nice.
>what else can you do with your magic powers?
>how used are you to work with machines
>>
>>4090100
>are you familiar with other types of magic, like runes, sigils or rituals?
>how used are you to work with machines
>>
>>4090100
>"Are you familiar with other types of magic, like runes, sigils or rituals?"
>"How used are you to work with machines?"
>"Elaborate on this, how do you feel if you have to work with morally ambiguous clients?"
>>
>>4090100
>are you familiar with other types of magic, like runes, sigils or rituals?
>how used are you to work with machines
>how do you feel if you have to work with morally ambiguous clients?
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4090100
>>4090111
>>4090117
>>4090121
>>4090125

Alright, then. "Moving on. Are you familiar with other types of magic, like runes, sigils or rituals?"

She lights up a bit at that. “Ooh, yeah! I mean, runic magic was a thing back before everything vanished, and I’ve been part of a couple nature rituals before. I don’t think they work here, since I’ve tried a couple and got nothing. Not to mention, I’m pretty sure it was a ritual that runic weapons failed to stop, so heck, dunno if runes are all that great, hee!” She giggles a bit, before continuing. “But who knows? Nothing about sigils, though. Are they much different from runes?”

“Some people say they’re similar,” Owlia answers, “But I tend to disagree.”

“Oh. Well, I’d probably be able to figure it out before too long!” she responds cheerfully.

Confident, at least. "Alright. How used are you to working with machines?"

“Weelll, I mean, I DID work in a toy factory for a while!” she giggles. “I like machines, honestly. A lot of people get surprised when I say that, since they’re all like, ‘machines ruin nature’! And sure, if you overdo it, yeah! But as long as whoever’s using those machines doesn’t go overboard, they’re great!” She snorts in laughter a bit as she continues. “Plus, the BIG factories are great places to dispose things like bodies, am I right?”

She never drops her smile as she says this, even as Cylica gives her an odd look.

Mind, she technically isn’t INCORRECT. And with this in mind, you continue on. "Right, so. Elaborate on this, how do you feel if you have to work with morally ambiguous clients?"

“So you mean humans?” She grins, tilting her head to the side before laughing. “Ohahaha, no no no, I’m kidding! Super kidding! No, but really, I guess it’s mostly fine. I try to find the joy in my life and focus on that, I don’t worry too much about the details. It’s allll about going with the flow.” Her petals flutter at that a bit.

“Right...well, then, I think that’ll be it for now.” You decide, standing up.

“Awww, that’s a shame. You guys are kinda fun to talk to!” She giggles.

“Thanks. At any rate, we’ll be calling you once we’ve made our decision,” you mention.

“Sounds good! I’ll be waiting with bated breath! Well, not really because I’d die and I want to do a good bit more before I decide to go and mulch myself, y’know?” She winks like it’s the biggest joke, and you’re genuinely unsure how to respond to that.

Instead, you simply wordlessly escort her out. As you return, both Owlia and Cylica are looking at each other with pensive stares, before turning to you. “She’s...interesting.”

“Yeah. Interesting,” Owlia admits. “Also good.”

“Yes, she seemed skilled,” Cylica agrees.

> “Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.”
> “Something about her unnerves me. I’m not a fan of her.”
> Other
>>
>>4090296
>Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.
It never hurts to have a sociopath in your group, i guess. And competent to booth. Damn. Now i want her and nura on the team.
>>
>>4090296
> “Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.”
>>
>>4090296
> “Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.”
>>
>>4090296
> “Something about her unnerves me. I’m not a fan of her.”
> "I'm naturally suspicious of anyone who mentions dumping bodies outside of our business."
>>
>>4090296
>> “Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.”
Crystals AND potions? Yeah she's a keeper. No crippling disadvantages either, since I don't count that mentality as one.
>>
>>4090296
>> “Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.”
>>
>>4090296
>Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.

Confident, knows what she's talking about, has a wide range of skills and sociopathic. She'd fit like gloves.

Can even form a black comedy duo with Lorelei.
>>
>“Weelll, I mean, I DID work in a toy factory for a while!”
>"Plus, the BIG factories are great places to dispose things like bodies, am I right?”
Pffft
>>
>>4090331
Lorelei would absolutely love to work with any of the two candidates. The tiefling for obvious reasons and cutter because she's lorelei with no inner monolgue.
>>
>>4090296
> “Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.”
>>
>>4090296
now what is she based off of? Florans from Starbound?
>>
>>4090296
You shrug. “Skilled enough, I suppose. Guess she’ll be on the list, too.” Her attitude wasn’t unfamiliar. It could be dealt with, ideally. But still. “So, that’s three people we have to decide on, then. Let’s discuss it over a late lunch, maybe give it some time to settle afterwards?” you offer.

“Fantastic,” Cylica agrees, and Owlia gives a quick hum of agreement as well. “There’s a cafe I’ve been wanting to try, if you don’t mind…?”

“Sure,” you figure.

>Okay, time for final choices! For the last member of Silver Eye Solutions! Your choices are:

>Mirela
>Nura
>Cutter

>I'd suggest to make sure to reread their interviews to make sure you have them all well in your mind. Also I kinda need to get to bed, so run will continue tomorrow!
-----------

>>4090355
Actually, more Pokemon than anything else. Though there IS an aspect of her that could be considered Floranish. Wonder if you can guess it.
>>
>>4090377
>Nura
>>
>>4090377
>Your choices are
Wait, we can pick 2?
>>
>>4090377
>>Cutter
Being able to make both Potions and have plenty of Crystal tech experience means she's top pick. Both Cylica and Owlia approves too. She's the best support I've seen out of all 3 candidates, and probably gets along great with Lorelei. Fun and extremely useful.
>>
>>4090377
>Nura
Decent skillset, no big issues with personality, personal combat experience and we don't need to teach her much or look after on the missions.
>>
>>4090386
Doesn't look like it...

>For the last member of Silver Eye Solutions!
>>
>>4090377
>>Cutter
>>
>>4090377
is she a carnivore?
>>
>>4090377
>Nura
Closely followed by
>cutter
>>
>>4090377
>Nura
From a min-maxing perspective Cutter comes out on top, but I think Nura's on-field performances will be better, except the no-killing part. Flowergirl is too disconnected?
>>4090390
That's a huge possibility. If you read her dialogues carefully you'll see why
>>
>>4090408
Wrong quote >>4090407
>>
>>4090408
sadly, i like cutter because of how disconnected she is. she would be particularly useful paired with izumi, although nura would be just as useful with her as well.
>>
>>4090413
Were you perhaps trying to quote >>4090398?

>>4090417
I'm not sure if Izumi would appreciate her as much as Lori, and I'm worried that her disconnection will cause problems with following directions.
>>
>>4090426
Yikes, yeah I was. Looks like I need sleep as much as Handler rn.
>>
>>4090426
oh, izumi won't appreciate any of our hires at all. the first one because she's a demon under another name and the second because she holds no regards to any living being, but we can't deny that any of the two compliment her rather nicely. cutter can dispose of the people 'zumi can't, while nura's support skills (and weakened poisons, so that they don't kill) can give her an edge on the battlefield or in infiltration missions.
>>
>>4090377
>Nura
Nura seems connected with people in a healthy way at least. Her skills might be relatively lacking in certain areas when compared to Cutter, but her personality isn't.

Also I'm afraid that if we ever took Cutter on a mission, she would start eating the corpses of our enemies and freak out our allies.
>>
>>4090443
Pretty sure she's okay with a couple of demons. At least Noran and Mono, anyway.

Actually, if you're still around Handler, how does Izumi determine what sort of demon she can slay and one she can (or should) leave alone?
>>
>>4090377
>Cutter
If not, Nura.
>>
>>4090460
i don't think she eats people. while she might be a carnivore, from what she told us is that she orders the wildlife to eat people, which is different.

>>4090467
but noran is a kid and mono's bloodline is so diluted that she might as well be a mage. Nura has the whole succubust package, inconspicuous seduction and all of that.
>>
>>4090377
>Mirela
Her issues with control can be dealt with, most importantly she's already aware of them and focused on working towards her issues unlike the others.

Skillset wise she has the best combination of working with our existing set-up, combat ability, and bringing new skillsets to SES.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4090377
I don't know who to pick so I'll just roll a dice and see how it goes:
1)Nura
2)Cutter
>>
>>4090486
Izumi isn't new here, and she works with a vampire. She's not so shallow as you think, and would likely judge our new hire by their attitude and merit.
I feel like we'll always have to look after Cutter, what she does and what she says - and she keeps saying too much.
>>
>>4090560
Cutter will be mostly in the labs to begin with, so I don't see why her mentality even matters if she's not going to do field missions that often. Her primary job would be to produce support items like potions and crystal tech upgrades anyways.
>>
>>4090532
>>4090377
I'll switch to Cutter since nobody else seems to like Mirela.

Guess we should get rid of the hanger and ships then.
>>
>>4090377
>Nura
>>
>>4090467
I think Imzui highly values trying to be a good person, so long as you're trying to not be a monster (and you know, not oblivious to what that means), you're not a monster, regardless of what you look like.

That said I think Nura and Cutter are both solid picks, but I think Nura will have more interesting things to say. Cutter comes off as a functional psychopath, while scary, I don't think there's a lot of nuance there?
In terms of fulfilling our job requirements, I feel like we'd need to stress test their gadgets, to see if either is any better than the other, nura has her enchanted items, cutter has her spell totems, if cutter has an edge in potions, I'd say nura has the edge in crystal tech.
>Nura
>>
honest question here. what is the functional advantage of potions over anything else? crystals, runes and sigils do what the potions can do, can do it better, don't require ingestion and are "rechargeable". so, why do we want potions again?
>>
>>4090587
>can be used by people who can't use magic (clients and people of interest)
>tend to be more effective, but those effect also tend to last shorter
>alchemy also means a degree of knowledge of chemistry
>we had a few potions that be researched/replicated, although there's nothing of high value or usefulness
So yeah, alchemy is more of a fallback option in case if our candidates don't know anything about crystals. There could be novel combinations of the two but it might be better to specialize on one thing instead.
>>
>>4090587
Because it has more potential versatility and power along with less costs than equipment? that and it can stack with crystals. This is because I see potions being consumables being easier to produce in large quantities than crystals, which seems to take a long time to make any new one to use due to the amount of time since Cylica and Owlia got recruited before we got the ones to test with.

We've had potions before and they were very useful, so I see potions as a great support tool to gain more options on missions due to larger availability than crystals, which are still mostly new and in testing vs the recipes that Cutter already has.

Combining all that with her crystal tech knowledge to also help on the other the tree makes her a no-brainer for the best support to get for an entire team.That and I see potions being much less expensive due to the nature to being consumable vs the expensive crystals to bring many to use on a mission.

Also, new plants can now be brought back for herbalism and new recipes.
>>
>>4090622
>Also, new plants can now be brought back for herbalism and new recipes.
Eh... I think finishing our research queue is more important than adding more stuff to the list.
I'm kinda bothered that anons are so focused on her being a psycho and seeing it as 'chaotic and funny', instead of the fact that she's actually a living PLANT. No one mentioned what pros and cons it could have or how far does her attunement to nature go. Nura is a cheery tieflieng, which can also be seen as 'chaotic and funny', and she's not creepy.
>>
>>4090377
>Nura
Or
>Mirela
I think Nura might fit better personality wise, but Mirela would bring a new insight to things.
>>
>>4090377
>>Nura
>>Mirela
>>
Seems Nura Qahtan is the latest member of Silver Eye Solutions! Devilishly delightful.

Writing shortly.
>>
>>4091977
A Tiefling! Surprising to say at least.

When you started this, who did you think would get in?
>>
>>4091986
Complete honesty? I figured Lezra or Mirela had the best shot after the initial selections. Mind, you know by now I don't make characters I don't want to write, so don't take that too seriously.
>>
>>4091996
You didn't expect tiefling waifu-bait to be a contender?
>>
>>4092016
>waifu-bait
wut?
>>
>>4092016
wtf? since when was any member a waifu?
>>
>>4092016
Eeh, nura won fair and square(and this is coming from someone that was rootin for mirela). She was the one that didn't have any "serious" problem and her skillset is decent enough, which are things that don't really apply to the other applicants.
>>
>Could have had a proper mek to make everything orky
Not angry, just disappointed Anon. Suppose having another spook will take pressure off Lori thiugh so that's good
>>
>>4092043
If the plane taught us anything, is that vehicles are a huge waste of time and money. So its for the best that we dont have mechs; maybe power armors at best, but nothing bigger than that.
>>
>>4091977
>>4090377
It takes a long couple of hours of deliberation over gourmet sandwiches. There’s concerns levied back and forth about the three finalists, talks about how they’d intend to deal with all of them. The possibility of them being brought onto missions. Issues of payment and how they’ll organize things with a new, permanent team member. You’ll have to inform the rest of the team, for certain. There’s surprise, concern, and even a bit of (stunted after some employees shush you) raised voices.

Eventually, however, you all come to an agreement. And with that, you decide to adjourn the meeting. The rest of the meal is eaten in relative silence, and once you get back home, you’ve got a couple of calls to make.

The first being Izumi. She’s quick to answer as always. “Hello?”

“Hey, I was just wondering. What’s your position on bringing in demon-blooded individuals onto the team?” Honestly, you don’t think she’ll have too much of an issue, but...

“Well, didn’t you say Mono is a succubus?” she asks wryly. “And yet she seems perfectly fine. I’ve grown at least a bit, Miranda; I’m not going to strike anyone down just because they LOOK like a demon. It’s actions that are important more than anything.” A pause. “Wait, ARE you adding someone?”

“As a tech,” you begin to explain. “Her name’s…”
---------------

“Nura Qahtan! I’ll be your newest Artificer! An absolute pleasure to meet you all!” The next day, she’s dressed in a pair of near painted on pants, a long sleeved, equally form fitting shirt, and well fitting white lab-coat, which at the very least appears functional in design. She has a pair of goggles on her head, right below her horns, and she’s carrying with her a briefcase, and towing a small closed box. “My, you’re all so cute looking, too! I hope we all get along great!”

“Uhhh...sure thing,” Mono says idly.

“Coool.” Lorelei grins.

“Noice,” Jago nods in approval.

The rest give various muted greetings- although you do see Izumi motion you over as everyone crowds around and makes introductions. “So this is who you mentioned earlier,” Izumi says under her breath. “I have to ask- two things, actually. One, how is she getting paid if she’s mainly technical work? And two, you’re POSITIVE she won’t be, er...too much?”

You give a light sigh. “For the second question, I’m sure we can handle it. For the first...”

> “I was thinking she’d be paid out of HQ funds.”
> “Same way as everyone else.”
> Other
>>
>>4092128
> “Same way as everyone else.”
>>
>>4092128
>“I was thinking she’d be paid out of HQ funds, while whatever missions she does a bigger chunk of it will go to the company”
>>
>>4092128
Supporting >>4092142
>>
>>4092128
>> “Same way as everyone else.”
If people insist on picking an agent and not just support than the new person can work and get paid the same way as everyone else.
>>
>>4092128
> “Same way as everyone else.”
So, got a question, boss. I assumed Nura would be doing at least some field work, but now that it's been brought up, how often do Owlia and Cylica go out on missions as compared to working at HQ?
>>
>>4092128
> “Same way as everyone else.”
>>
>>4092142
I support this one
>>
So can we take her on a simple mission with us? Just to see how she fares on outgoer stuff.
>>
>>4092142
Supporting

>we want a researcher, but she has to come out on missions or she wont get paid.
Are you idiots?
>>
>>4092166
Switching to >>4092142
My mistake if I misquote.
>>
>>4092162
Decently often precisely because of this issue.
>>
>>4092128
>>4092142
This
>>
A bit of a new method.

Writing.
>>
>The next one is Nura, and...hoo boy. A red and black devilish young lady, spaded tail and all, she’s got on a grey pencil skirt and a form fitting blouse and suit jacket to go with it...also large, round glasses. She’s also wearing a silver, engraved chain with a pendant on it with a purple gem in the center nestled square on her chest, as well as silver bangles around her wrists, neck, and legs. She gives a beaming smile as she walks up to you. “Ah, hello there! Begging your pardon, I’m looking for a Miss Miranda Styles?” Her voice is light, airy, and confident.

Hmmm, had to take a lot of liberties for this one. Lemme know if you want anything changed Handler.
>>
>>4092212
Not too far off from the mental image, actually. Good work!
>>
>>4092196
Uh oh, new is scary, now Owlia and Cylica will be asking why we make them do courier work.
>>
>>4092128
“Actually, we talked about this the other day, and decided on something different,” you explain. “I was thinking she’d be paid out of HQ funds, while whatever missions she DOES do, a bigger chunk of it will go to the company than normal, since she’s getting paid a regular salary.”

“Ah. That’s...actually fairly innovative,” she admits. “I suppose in a way it’s rather elegant, and works well with what her intended duties are.”

“That was the idea,” you nod. “She’s not going out nearly as often as us, so things have to be a bit different for her. At least she seems to be getting along with everyone…” although as you say that you notice that she’s hugging Mono particularly tightly, who’s rapidly trying to squirm out of her grasp- and Lorelei’s just laughing. The others, bar Jago who’s nodding to himself, just look various flavors of amused and exasperated. “...mostly.”

Izumi starts to say something, but just snorts lightly with a smile. “It’ll be fine. So, then. I believe we technically have a full suite of individuals for the company in the future, correct? Any idea of what comes next, then?”

Hmm. Good question. “Well, after she gets settled in and Owlia and Cylica show her the ropes, the way I figure it…”

> “We’ll do the sorta traditional thing. Night out with the newbie. Just you, me, Lorelei, and her.”
> “Should probably put her through her paces, get her situated with how her pay structure will work quickly.”
> “She can get started immediately. No fuss, no muss.”
> Other
>>
>>4092288
>We’ll do the sorta traditional thing. Night out with the newbie. Just you, me, Lorelei, and her.
>>
>>4092269
>because there was no HQ at the time - meaning no HQ funds as well
>because they are saving up for their dream project
>because they like exploring and seeing new tech too
>>
>>4092240
> “We’ll do the sorta traditional thing. Night out with the newbie. Just you, me, Lorelei, and her.”
>>
>>4092269
...because they chose to be couriers. If anything, we're being dicks to them by not paying their R&D work.
>>
>>4092288
> “We’ll do the sorta traditional thing. Night out with the newbie. Just you, me, Lorelei, and her.”
>>
>>4092288
> “We’ll do the sorta traditional thing. Night out with the newbie. Just you, me, Lorelei, and her.”
Does she even have a license atm?
>>
>>4092240
And thanks! Not to common do we encounter demonic scientist types.
>>
>>4092302
We got to taste the fruits of their labor only recenly, and we have to try and test it too.
>>
>>4092288
>Other
>Put her through the training
>>
We do what we do.

Writing!
>>
>>4092328
>what do we do with the drunken MG?
>what do we do with the drunken MG??
>what do we do with the drunken MG early in the morning
>>
>>4092048
> refuses to invest in or use planes

> Must be a big waste of money.

Honestly I'm just glad we can get rid of it since we aren't going to use it.

>>4092128
> Other

Get her to pick a mission that she believes plays to her strengths. Seeing how she uses her skills in action will make it easier to figure out what she can create that we'll be able to use instead of just letting her randomly come out with things.
>>
>>4092405
We were told from the get go that planes cost money to deploy, to stay inside a mission and to repair. There were talks from a long time ago to get rid of the plane or get a pilot, and when the option to get a pure pilot for the plane was posted, only two anons voted for it, while the rest went for an artificer. And then when we found an artificer that was a pilot, she got played by another one that had a better skillset.

Its not even that the anons refused, but a better option kept appearing each and every time we tried to get a pilot.
Hmmm... maybe we can keep the plane for parts so that the lab gets a headstart on whatever crazy shenanigans they are planning.
>>
>>4092423
Well then if we're scrapping the ship for parts, then we don't need to maintain it, then we should inform our mechanic friend that she needs a new project, gravy train is departing the station.
>>
>>4092468
lets wait until we reach the moment to deal with the plane. right now its time to get drunk.
>>
>>4092474
Drunk already!? but we finally got rid of the kids, surely we have more things to do OTHER than get wasted!
...
Ah, hm, no...
Well shit.
Let's go out on the bar with the girls then, why not. They trained hard yesterday right?
>>
>>4092490
We still have more things to do, like trying to see if we are capable of going up a rank, or talking with the s class courier.
>>
Really tired, sorry.

>>4092288
>>4092293
>>4092298
>>4092303
>>4092305
You shrug. “We’ll just do as we usually do. Night out with the newbie, just you, me, Lorelei, and her. See what she’s about.” Seems simple enough to you.

She nods. “Sounds fair to me. I hope she’s at least not a rowdy drunk.”

After that, there’s largely the general pointing out of the facilities, and you make sure she knows what her pay is going to look like. “So as long as I keep making reasonable progress, I’ll be getting paid a set amount?” she asks.

“Essentially. And if you have to- or just want to- come out on a job with us, a sizeable amount of that’s going to the company funds, which still helps you out since that’s the source of your income,” you explain. “Frankly, I think it’d be good for you to take at least a couple of excursions with us, especially if we’re going to a world you might think has resources that could help you.”

“Couldn’t you just bring back some things if I asked?” she notes, raising an eyebrow.

“We could, but it’d be a crapshoot on whether it’d be useful or not if you’re not there,” you point out. “Better for you to be on the scene and be able to make a judgement call. Besides, if you weren’t just talking noise, you should be able to handle yourself, right?”

“Mmm...yes, I suppose I can’t debate that…” she admits lowly. Might have to ask about that. But that’s a perfect opener.

“Say, we were thinking. Me, Izumi, and Lorelei were wondering if you’d wanna go out with us tonight; just to a little bar or something, get to know each other. Me, Izumi and Lorelei are basically the founding members of the organization that aren’t Sal, so I think it’d be a good idea.” The way her face lights up tells you she’s already sold. “We’ll let you unpack, get settled a bit, then meet back here in about 3 hours, okay?”

“Ooh, sounds like a plan! I hope you girls have somewhere nice in mind!” she giggles.

“We’ve got a place or two. So you go get set while I handle a few other things,” you shoo her off, and she sashays away down the hall.

“Not bad,” a voice from behind you says, and you quickly turn around to see Lorelei, smarmy grin on her face. “She’s gonna be fun to hang out with, I bet!”

“Well, you’ll get a chance to find out soon enough,” you reply with a half-grin of your own. “We’re gonna get to know her over drinks tonight, if you’re i-”

“NICE!” Of course she’d be for it. “Alriiiight, night time fun times!”

...it’s the way she says it while waggling her eyebrows that has you wondering if this might not be the best idea…

(I’m really sleepy so we’ll be back tomorrow.)
>>
>>4092526
Good night, boss. Thanks for running!
>>
The doc keeps getting bigger and bigger, so I decided to make a sheet version of character inventory after all. Hope that it's easier to read than the list.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1H43OFoxE9QyMgIqBg_YdPO7IPn7_ES6iST7Xnv9Ou7Q/edit?usp=drivesdk
Also tried to add a little something to help with picking the mission outfit, but I'm not sure if I made it simple enough.
>>
>>4092647
ooh, that's really interesting anon!
>>
>>4092647
Looks good to me. Good job, anon.
>>
>>4092647
Pretty cool, anon. You forgot to add the manastone pistol and shotgun, though.

...which reminds me, we should check with Owlia to see if she’s done experimenting with them later, along with checking in with Grizzi’s about the stuff we left with them.
>>
>>4093531
Didn't Miranda donate all of her mana weapons and stones to the lab? Though I do remember that she had multiple of them - need a confirmation from Hsndler to be sure.
>>
>>4093597
i think we got rid of all the mundane, single use and limited ammo weapons.
>>
>>4093597
I was under the assumption we gave it for Owlia to research temporarily for her to develop crystal based ammo and guns. I do know we took back the robattler legs and armor for that assistant bot.
>>
oh, that reminds me, we need to see how the robots have adapted to their new android bodies(and to see if there is some sort of AI inside of them)
>>
So I was thinking about this problem, and eealized that we could actually fly a plane. Maybe not the best pilot but I recall us having such an ability. And others as well?
Perhaps not enough of a reason to keep the plan but we could use it in a pinch should we need it.
>>
>>4094498
Miranda, Izumi and Lorelei can decently pilot conventional aircraft with roughly the same skill. Owlia and Cylica come from a sky-world, where almost all types of transport could fly - but they're unfamiliar with conventional stuff, meaning that they'll need to re-learn some stuff but also that they might know some unorthodox tricks. Prima and Jago could find some software that would teach them how to pilot it, just like it happened in the Seither world mission - first mission they're in a mech and by the end of it they became decent pilots. I don't care that we don't have a dedicated pilot, I thought that this role was redundant. We don't have a Hangar but that's not a big concern for me either - there's 110 Lotes in the HQ and 100 more in our pocket. If someone wants to tell me that spending cash from our pocket is a bad idea then they'd better tell me what else there is to spend it on. Are we saving up for a retirement or something?
Now, my main concern is that anons have never explained how they should be used: what type of mission do they expect to go on, what role should our little air wing play, and most importantly - what needs to be done with our vehicles to fit those roles. Not even talking about the expenses because there's some shitter who constantly exhorts how much it will cost us to do anything with our aircraft - just want to know how do you guys see an 'average aircraft mission' playing out. Solo fighter missions? Modding both heli and jet into attack aircraft and bombing the shit out of someone? Insertion/rapid deployment on a heli with jet as an escort? Doing something weird like retrofitting all of our aircraft for delivery missions for max profit? All of these options require aircraft of different roles and configuration - something that we haven't decided on yet.
>>
>>4094552
If you guys can't decide on that - then fuck it, let's move studying the inner workings of these magitech flying unicorns to the top of our research queue and then sell it after we're done with it.
>>
>>4094552
>ust want to know how do you guys see an 'average aircraft mission' playing out.
That was one of the things that were discussed way back; to see how profittable are the plane centric misions.
As fow what kind of missions our plane can do... i think its a fighter, so its cargo and crew capacity is almost non existent. That means it will be restricted to recon, search and destroy, maybe deliver VIPs or stuff like that.
>>
>>4093645
I'm also curious if their mana is tied to their bodies or 'souls' . Most likely the latter but now we have 3 scientists of dubious morality and sanity we could do some experiments...
>>4094552
I thought about having them as a back up option, but by the time we need to call Sal and ask him to send in the big guns we'd have already fucked up royally. Even if a client were to get the upper hand on us Sal would probably just fulton us. Honestly don't see a real way we can use them unless we become a bigger company.
>>
>>4094552
I never thought the plane, as a fighter, was a good idea. But after we got the hanger and the mecha mission I figured getting a transportation specialist would make missions like the one with the spiders easier, or we could have gotten backup for the mecha mission. Same with the original airship world that we got the plane in.

Even in the Mobster world we could have used secure transport and armored backup for a number of things.

But yeah. Without a fighting capable transport the hanger is a big waste of money and space.

like the axe.
>>
>>4095027
>spoiler
The one we currently have or the one we're planning to make?
>>
>>4095108
The axe we picked up from the Artificier world is a trophy at best, and since when were we planning to make an axe? The only weapon queued up was the mystery box we opted in when we were with the kids, and it is either still not finished or we haven't picked it up yet.
>>
>>4095260
> and since when were we planning to make an axe?
Lots of suggestions for a flying axe were floating around during the vote, remember?
>>
>>4095266
That was a vocal minority.

>>4095260
Exactly why I compared the plane to the axe.
>>
>>4095418
>That was a vocal minority
This is /qst/, anon - there's no such thing as a vocal minority. The discussion of a custom weapon started with the mention of an axe. You got a point there that there end result might be different, but don't just dismiss other anons as 'vocal minority' when they try to share their idea and keep up the discussion in the thread.
>>
>>4095418
So? If the vocal minority is the only one pushing for an axe, guess what's gonna happen? They will get their axe.
>>
>>4095436
>>4095447
Same as the fighter jet.
>>
(id switched)
Personally, I was thinking of re-configuring both heli and jet to perform close air support, turning them into flying tanks. The 'fighter' role is too disconnected from the ground combat, so the jet should be converted into a ground-attack aircraft, and we could turn the heli into something like the soviet Hind. Plane would clear the way and heli would do the objective. Both of them have Mana Reactors, so we could outfit them with crystal-based shields and weapons which we can upgrade them by ourselves instead of buying stuff from the market.
The operational ceiling would be low, but that also means that aircraft and a ground team could better support each other. There won't be a big variety of missions to choose from, but this might be for the best since we'll need less extensive training. Aerial combat capabilities won't be great, a sacrifice to keep costs manageable.
>>
>>4095890
That would be a great idea if we had a mechanic capable of doing that.

But nobody voted for Mirela.
>>
>>4095902
We already have a mechanic - Mitzi was hired to help Owlia with the aircraft. Sal mentioned that her prices are quite fair.
>>
>>4095927
You know what, maybe we should deal with the plane issue now then. Seeing how we dealt with the 10th memeber 'issue', now seems like a good time. Also base upgrades after that if we have funds left? Jees, we have a lot of housekeeping to do.
>>
>>4095890
what about outright trading in the helicopter(do we have one?) and the fighter for a Warthog and a hind respectively? cheaper and easier than doing a full conversion.
>>
>>4096436
I mean. Are those really the equipment we want? A Warthog is a really bad jeep, prone to flipping, no armor.

Instead of splitting it, shouldn't we focus on getting one good thing with shields and a mana reactor instead? Because we ARE the guns.

That was the big bonus from the fighter in the first place, the mana reactor.
>>
>>4096762
i don't mean the halo warthog anon. i mean the BRRRRRRT, flying one.
>>
>>4096771
Still. Why hold back to 20th century tech?

Better to have a flying brick battery. Mana beams, light shields for days.
>>
>>4096997
i mean, i'm just saying the warthog as a reference for what we ideally want(a cheap flying brick that can take and deal hits like a champ and is easy to reapir), just like how the other anon said we could convert the helicopter to a hind (another flying brick that also can double as troop/cargo transport).
>>
>>4096997
Eh, so far we havent seen many things that can defeat moden armor.
>>
>>4097465
What do you mean by 'modern armor'?
>>
>>4097465
We've seen lots though? Giant statue golems, Armored Core Mecha, monsters magical and mundane, etc.

The girls are in general powerful enough on their own, what they need is a group transport / support vehicle for when they have to do escort jobs or travel long distances.
>>
>>4097002
>>4097465
Like I agree with the concept of a Hind. Be able to set it down and divert power to shielding or cloaking or drain mana to restore the operative.
>>
>>4096436
It can be said that our outfit specializes in overwhelming magical power, and the fact that our aircraft reflects this as well is dope af.
>>4096997 this guy gets it
>>
>>4097565
Fair enough, but like i said before, i was elaborating on >>4095890's idea.
The reconfiguration will be too costly, so instead of doing that lets trade the planes and helicopters for other planes and helicopters that fit more into what we want; hence the warthog and that anon's idea of the hind. We obviously don't want those in specific, but we want the same characteristics that they have; The warthog as a CAS plane that can take hits and deliver big payloads, can also serve as a scot, is cheap to repair and deploy, and can fly at low speeds and altitude and the hindthat can double as a troop/cargo transport and a gunship at the same time while having a similar level of toughness as the warthog and being cheap as well.
>>
>>4097961
I assume that most Outgoers fly trophy aircraft and Dynamic Methods is the only company with standartized vehicles. Even if other Outgoers order an aircraft from scratch then it's likely a custom job made specifically for that company, which reflects on the price. Since DM are so influential they likely get much better deals. So my guess on what we'll find on the market is either other trophies or a bare frame that we'll have to customize from scratch.
What I'm trying to say is that purchasing a new plane might not be cheaper than reconfiguring what we already have. Maybe we can find an HQ task that can give us a discount or do a job for DM in exchange for a favor.
>>
>>4098669
Well we could probably hire Mirela for the conversion.
>>
>>4098709

>>4095927
>>
>>4098669
the thing with reconfigurations is that they won't work as well as a model made for the job. you might be able to configure a prius to be like a truck, but a real truck will be able to do everything the truckPrius can, but better. way better.
Either way, you have a point. We definitely need to check our options before we do our move.
>>
Can someone list all the HQ task rewards we were supposed to get? I remember there was something about free armor upgrade for a vehicle.
>>
>>4098728
Mirela is a specialist in the area though.

Mitzi is a mechanic. Mirela is an engineer. Has a transforming mech, can probably give us what we want to turn the jet into.
>>
k im back
>>4098843
#76
>"... you glance back near the HQ’s task list. Seems like all of them have been taken..."

>Client: Spark North (Hardware and Software)
>Request Type: Labor
>Reward: Limited Server Database Access- (Physical Combat Training Area- AI Dummies Upgrade)
>"Lorelei and Jago are doing the moving? Oof."
>Client: Redline (Vehicles and Accessories- Outgoer Focused)
>Request Type: Showcase
>Reward: Reinforced armor plating on any vehicle of choice.
since it said that all the task were taken we can deduce that O&C went there

>Client: Minus-One (Firearms)
>Request Type: Showcase
>Reward: Minus-One brand Weapons Storage System, Pick of Single Minus-One Brand Weapon.
>"Izumi and Prima are helping with the weapons demonstration"

>Client: Johnson and Nema Interactive Art Installations
>Request Type: Exhibition
>Reward: Custom (Minor) Room Installation
>"Mono’s helping with the art show thing"

#83
>Client: Intersection Extreme Roller Derby Association
>Request Type: Exhibition
>Reward: 2 Large Motes for Appearance Fees, Notoriety for SES, Advanced Weight and Exercise Training Room.

>>4099046
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/3534271/#p3536932

Mitzi is way older than 'Randa and has comparable knowledge of aircraft, has her own repair shop with all the necessary stuff and has known Miranda for years and gives her favorable prices. Owlia and Cylica both have knowledge in avionic engineering to cover her up if she's lacking some knowledge.
Mirela, on the other hand, is JOBLESS, probably has tools only to keep her own stuff operational, and since we told her that we're not hiring her then she'll try to get as much motes as she can 'cause this will be a short-term deal + she might be a bit salty.
>>
>>4099203
Like I said, mechanic vs engineer. Mitzi can build it, sure, but Mirela can design it. Mirela's value isn't in her tools but in her knowledge. Also since she's jobless, Mirela will be available to work without administration fees tacked on.

Honestly we're probably better off selling the fighter and buying what we want instead. You can't just "convert" a fighter jet to a different role, think of it as an integrated unit.

Unless you're someone with experience with transforming mechs.
>>
>>4099787
>Honestly we're probably better off selling the fighter and buying what we want instead.
Given how costly these things are, i feel we would be even be able to trade the fighter for a CAS plane, a gunship-troop transport helicopter and several mini conversion kits as well(like a scanning array for recon and such)
>>
>>4099914
My concern with getting multiple units like that is the increased cost. Especially if we're contracting out maintenance instead of having it done in-house.

Focusing more on one transport/support unit would probably be enough since those are our biggest weaknesses.

We don't really have any dedicated pilots either, limiting the effectiveness.

Everybody wants BRRRRRRTTTTT but it miggt be best to get a hind-equivalent that can have transport space repurposed for big guns or mana batteries.

Ideally, IMO, we would have something capable of transport focus while moving and being able to quickly set up a hardened base when not moving. That way we can get utility out of it on missions that don't require transportation.
>>
>>4099971
the idea of the warthog and the hind was because >>4095890 was saying we also have a helicopter, but if push comes to shove the helicopter wins, no questions asked. the utility it brings its way too much compared to the plane.
>>
>>4099914
The question we have to ask is what do we need out of vehicular support?

Long range transport is an issue. The girls are very fast over short distances.

Defense. Miranda can do it but it's very expensive. Same with wolf-girl. Lori is a wet paper bag. Izumi is more speed focused. Overall none of them are good at protecting assets, compared to protecting themselves. We've also repeatedly seen bases provided to us being insecure, or provided by untrustworthy employers.

The final recurring issue is long term sustainability mana-wise. Supply enough mana and Miranda becomes the BRRRRRTTTT. Alternatively, a big gun gives Lori and Woofy some much needed punch and their skills are perfect for leading enemies into firing arcs. Izumi + guns is never bad.

So a flying brick that can be pre-loaded with a BFG, Base-ready2-build, sensor kit, extra engines, extra transport capability, or mana batteries is really all we really need. It won't be as great as dedicated units for any of those things, but it will be good enough that we'll consistently use it.

Getting Mirela to design it can make it very plug & play so that switching it out is inexpensive as opposed to paying Mitzi motes to swap things around. Higher up front price, lower long term cost. Especially if we need to switch something out in the field.
>>
>>4099986
we also need to keep in mind the original purpose of getting the plane: plane centric missions and the motes those things give, because none of the girls, with the exception of the newbies, really need air support.
>>
>>4099995
Flying Box + Mana Battery + BFG, no space left for transport.

Miranda could use the Mana Battery to focus on placing shields while the BFG shoots.

The issue with CAS or fighter support is that we don't have anyone with the skills to really fill that role even if we had the units for it.
>>
>>4100043
>Mana Battery + BFG, no space left for transport.
yeah no, you want those to be part of the plane/helicopter, not something that consumes the carry capacity.

>The issue with CAS or fighter support is that we don't have anyone with the skills to really fill that role even if we had the units for it.
we're also getting ahead of ourselves. we still need to check a lot of things before even thinking if selling the plane is the best thing to do.
>>
>>4100094
I mean, in addition to the power source for the flying brick. A second power sources would be needed for shields and shooting.

Carry capacity is only important if we have to bring along other people, otherwise it's better to slap a gun in that space.

In an airship world, we could beg, borrow, or steal a dedicated transport for that purpose.
>>
>>4100115
>A second power sources would be needed for shields and shooting
Why? They should be part of the plane standard systems, otherwise you're getting ripped off.

>Carry capacity is only important if we have to bring along other people
Or we use it to haul cargo, which might benefit the couriersa lot. But to be fair i did call it carry capacity instead of storage space.
>>
>>4100129
Point regarding cargo.

Honestly, an infinite engine capacity would be game breaking. That's why I was considering things like a cost for switching modules, having 2 free "spaces", modules requiring to be swapped out in SES. Paying more for Mirela's expertise could justify "universal ports" so that we could use local tech in a pinch at a cost to performance.

Probably a cost to bring such large equipment with us to a world.

Maybe I'm thinking too far ahead. But the only real justifications for a vehicle are strategic ones not tactical.
>>
>>4100284
>>4100129
Specifically, what can a vehicle from the intersection offer to make it worth it, since the girls are all powerful enough to simply take a vehicle in the worlds we go to. Even that assumes we couldn't get transport from the employer.
>>
And so you find yourselves in a not unfamiliar scenario, at a small bar/bistro, drinks in hand and small finger foods, with Nura idly sipping a mojito as the rest of you tuck into your drinks. Lorelei for whatever reason opted for a set of chicken wings, which she’s laying into. “So,” you decide to start things off. “First of all, congrats. We think you’ll do pretty well here, all things considered.”

“Thaanks!” her tailtips waggles a bit as she takes a sip. “Really, I’m glad I got it- I needed a change of scenery something bad. “Sooo…”

“Soooo ask us stuff if you wanna?” Lorelei hazards. “You gotta be curious. Doesn’t matter if it’s serious or not.”

She pauses, thinking it over. “Well...I guess I’m kinda just wondering if, uh. I mean, I can guess the whole…assassin thing with me might’ve played a part, but uh...is that going to be a big part of it all alongside my artificing?” Her tail twists in uncertainty (you think), but she’s trying to be neutral about it, at least.

> No, we just wanted to know just in case we need some extra muscle.
> It’s likely, all things considered. Being able to handle yourself is needed.
> We might ask you to train some of the less combat-capabable members, that’s all.
> Other
>>
>>4100352
>You probably won't need to kill people if that's what worries you. But being able to handle yourself is needed.
>>
>>4100352
>It’s likely, all things considered. Being able to handle yourself is needed.
Welcome back, boss. It's been a while.
>>
>>4100352
Switching to >>4100359
>>
>>4100352
> No, we just wanted to know just in case we need some extra muscle.
>Considering the nature of some worlds, it’s always a good idea to have some means to defend yourself.
>So, would you mind telling me why you seem a bit uncomfortable talking about those skills?
>>
>>4100352
>>4100359
Supporting.
>>
>>4100352
Supporting >>4100359
>>
>>4100359
supportin'
>>
>>4100359
>>4100352
Supporting.
>>
>>4100352
>>4100359
This and
>So, would you mind telling me why you seem a bit uncomfortable talking about those skills?
>>
>>4100352
>You probably won't need to kill people if that's what worries you. But being able to handle yourself is needed.
>So, would you mind telling me why you seem a bit uncomfortable talking about those skills?
>>
Actually going to post a bit, but it'll be a late run. Was out a lot today.
>>
>>4102272
How's work? I'm assuming things are still busy?
>>
>>4102276
>>4102276
Yes, but it's starting to cool down, at least temporarily. The whole project is behind schedule, despite our best efforts (it's not even our fault), so we're pressed for time, but we're badass enough that we still finish our shit up, but right now it's a whole damn bottleneck issue. Frustrating, honestly.

Also fuck night shift. I'm not gonna elaborate on why, but goddamnit, fuck night shift.
>>
>>4102282
i feel ya. we're also late in our work because our client is a prick and chooses to not do their damn job of giving us feedback in form and time.
>>
>>4102282
>>4102295
At least you guys are still doing fine-ish.
That flu is hitting our business hard on this side of the world.
>>
You shake your head along with Izumi, while Lorelei shrugs. “You probably won't need to kill people if that's what worries you,” you note. “But being able to handle yourself is needed, just in case.”

“Self-defense reasons, if nothing else,” Izumi adds on. “Should you come ‘on site’, so to speak, then there’s no guarantee that we’ll be able to protect you at all times while trying to deal with the primary goal.”

“...I guess that makes sense,” she admits, though clearly reluctantly.

And on that topic…you lean forward a bit, taking a sip of your own drink. “Mmm. So, would you mind telling me why you seem a bit uncomfortable talking about those skills? I’ve noticed your hesitance more than once.”

“Ah. Right, suppose that WOULD be curious, now, wouldn’t it?” she admits, nursing her drink. “Well...I suppose I might as well come clean.” She sighs, and it takes a bit for her to work up the nerve to begin. “Like I said, I was an assassin for a while; at the time, I wasn’t anywhere NEAR as interested in beauty like I am now. I was a bit of a gutter runner- a thief and pickpocket for a street gang at first, and, well...it was an accident at first. A heist gone wrong, and I needed to keep things under wraps since it was a pretty influential target. Turns out, killing things was easy to me. At first, I felt...well, nothing. Or at least nothing positive. Once they found out, I was taught more by an old hand of the gang. Eventually things got good enough that the gang got taken in by the local organized crime ring. I worked my way up through the ranks there, and, well, one night I was assigned to silence an associate who we’d gotten wind was planning to turn traitor.” She frowns. “It was...well. It went well for the most part, but...I wasn’t expecting his daughter to show up.” She slumps, before taking a bigger swig of her drink. “I-I wasn’t...we were told she was with her mother, not there. Off in some other mansion. Didn’t know she’d stayed behind last minute. She saw me. Knife in his gut.” She sighs again, eying her drink. “I...the rules said ‘no witnesses’. None.” Another swig, and she refills from the bottle Lorelei had brought- wasn’t even the same liquor. “There weren’t any.”

(cont)
>>
>>4102382
Lorelei just makes a sympathetic ‘mmm’ as she nods. You swear Izumi’s mouth twitches downwards, but she otherwise keeps a neutral expression.

Nura just sighs. “I...it’s been a looong time. I still see her face in my memories. Couldn’t do it anymore after that. I killed the heads of the organization, skipped town. Thought about a lot of things for a while. A lot of dark things.” Another swig; it’s just beer now, not that she cares. “Thought maybe I could try something more about creating and protecting lives than ending them. Found an artificer that wouldn’t freak out at the sight of me. He took me under his wing. Found that I enjoyed it a heck of a lot more, annnd...rest is history.” Another sigh. “So, that’s my story.”

> “I see. Well. If it makes you feel any better, I’ve done WAY worse.”
> “Thanks. Like I said, we’re not going to make you do any of that. Just want you to be safe.”
> “It’s good, all things considered. You’re going to do great things here, and that history is what gave you this opportunity.”
> Other
>>
>>4102383
> “I see. Well. If it makes you feel any better, I’ve done WAY worse.”

> "Which is why we maintain a certain amount of discretion with our work to avoid having to do it again. So no worries there."

I recall a flashback to being contractually obliged to wipe out a village or something, way back in the game?
>>
>>4102383
> “It’s good, all things considered. You’re going to do great things here, and that history is what gave you this opportunity.”
>>
>>4102383
> “It’s good, all things considered. You’re going to do great things here, and that history is what gave you this opportunity.”
>>
>>4102383
> “It’s good, all things considered. You’re going to do great things here, and that history is what gave you this opportunity.”
>>
>>4102383
>“Thanks. Like I said, we’re not going to make you do any of that. Just want you to be safe.”
> “It’s good, all things considered. You’re going to do great things here, and that history is what gave you this opportunity.”
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4102383
>“Thanks. Like I said, we’re not going to make you do any of that. Just want you to be safe.”
>>
>>4102383
>>4102396
>>4102406
>>4102427
>>4102429
You’re not going to make a judgement call on that at all- barring Izumi, you’re all guilty of stuff some people that didn’t get it would call heinous. “Look, it’s good, all things considered. You’re going to do great things here, and you could say that that history is what gave you this opportunity.”

She grimaces at that, but doesn’t deny it. “Well...I’m just glad I’ll be doing something worthwhile here. I’m hoping...hoping that everyone can be beautiful together.” Well, she at least got it out of her system. That’s good. Izumi looks as though she’s weighing asking something, but isn’t sure how to phrase it. Maybe you should…

“Hey so like, you’re not, like...a succubus, right?” Lorelei asks out of nowhere, jarring your thoughts. “I mean, you’re pretty hot and all, but you’re not like...I mean we GOT one already, but she’s just a big puppy dog and you’re like...a fucking hot devil.”

You can’t tell if she blushes, but she does seem to shy away a bit. “Ohoh-well, I’m just… no, no, I’m just a normal old tiefling. I appreciate the complet- compliment, though! You’re a cutie, too!”

“Damn right I am!” Lorelei cheers. “C’mon, lemme get you more of that mimosa stuff. You- I want to keep my drink to myself.”

Izumi sighs. “Well...at least THEY’RE getting along. I think I’ll refrain from too much tonight...”

>Roll 2d20, best of three.

>Same. Would make a bad first impression.
>Well...can’t be as bad as last time.
>Other
>>
Rolled 17, 7 = 24 (2d20)

>>4102555
>Same. Would make a bad first impression.
Got to see how the newbie handles her liquor...
>>
Rolled 4, 17 = 21 (2d20)

>>4102555
>>
Rolled 16, 9 = 25 (2d20)

>>4102555
>Well...can’t be as bad as last time.
>>
>>4102555
>>Same. Would make a bad first impression.
>>
>>4102555
>Same. Would make a bad first impression.
>>
>>4102555

>Same. Would make a bad first impression.
>>
>>4102555
>>4102568
>Have you and Delilah found anything about the layoffs yet?
>>
>>4102555
>Same. Would make a bad first impression.
We ain't gonna pass out drunk next to two succubi, in a public establishment.
>>
We'll pass this time. Writing.

At least it seems like the girls are having fun. Not too much fun, thank goodness.
>>
>>4102555
>>4102559
>>4102562
>>4102566
>>4102568
>>4102569
>>4102572
>>4102614
You have to agree- you don’t want her first memories of this place to be her boss getting drunk off her ass. “Same. Would make a bad first impression,” you decide as the other two laugh.

What follows, fortunately, is a relatively sedate (relatively being the keyword) night of carousing and drinking as Lorelei and Nura seem to become bosom buddies practically overnight. The lot of you wind up going on a long walk, and Lorelei manages to swindle the three of you into having a bit of time at an indoor target range- there’s a section specifically for ‘thrown melee weapons’. You and Izumi stay out of it in the interests of fairness (and because privately you kinda don’t want to be shown up by Izumi), and Lorelei and Nura insteady take turns proving just who has the worse aim when drunk.

It’s Lorelei.

The end of the night, thanks to your and Izumi’s careful shepherding, results in the two of them, arm in arm, heading back to HQ- Lorelei’s quick to invite her to stay the night, as her place is a bit of a distance away- apparently she has a place near the Crafter’s District. You’re pretty sure this makes her the first employee who’ll have to commute to work…

At any rate, she’s at least proven less of an issue than her technical seniors with a night on the town- although admittedly you and Izumi were moderating influences.

With the night fortunately settled, your head to bed- at least you won’t be waking up in a horrible place like last time.

With the day’s approach, however, you have to figure on what to do today, and honestly...you’re thinking about finally doing something with those aircraft. You’d gotten them a while ago, but have yet to put them to use. You should probably fix that, one way or another.

>Look for a job that necessitates a fighter craft.
>Look for a job that necessitates a carrier craft.
>Sell one/both of the aircraft; they’re just sitting there and taking time and money.
>Other

(...restarting in the AM.)
>>
>>4102772
>Look for a job that necessitates a fighter craft.
>Look for a job that necessitates a carrier craft.
>Look for a jop that necessitates both
let's at least see if there's a decent job(s )we can do before selling them willy nilly, and should it come to it, checking out where to sell(even before we take more looks at those things properly at this point, even)
>>
>>4102772
>>Look for a jop that necessitates both
>>
>>4102772
>Look for a job that necessitates a fighter craft.
>Look for a job that necessitates a carrier craft.
>look for a job that needs both
Welp, lorelei game is on point, i see.
>>
>>4102772
>Look for a job that necessitates a fighter craft.
>Look for a job that necessitates a carrier craft.
>Look for a jop that necessitates both
Are we going to take Nura too for a trial run?
>>
>>4102772
>Sell one/both of the aircraft; they’re just sitting there and taking time and money.
>>
>>4102772
> All the airship jobs

> Take Nura along

> Take Cylica/Owlia along

Company bonding experience!
>>
>>4102772
>>Look for a job that necessitates a fighter craft.

Carrier work sounds tedious DESU
>>
>>4103165
>Company bonding experience!
you know what, what about bringing EVERYONE (provided checking that each of them are okay with it?)
>>
You figure it’s probably a good idea to see what’s out there in the way of jobs needing aircraft- might as well figure out what use you can put these things towards before you write them off.

Let’s see…

Seems like jobs requiring aircraft aren’t exactly in the biggest supply- most that are there are better suited for big names like Dynamic Methods and their fleet.

As for you, however…well, there’s a couple.

(and here's the list...)
>>
>Recommended Outgoers: 2-3
>Special Note: Aircraft Required (Small Aircraft Preferred. Combat capability recommended.)
>Higher and Higher: Hello? Is...is this how it works? Oh, goodness, I’m crazy for relying on something like this...anyway! Er, I don’t usually do this kind of thing, but I’m in a bit of a pickle.
I’ve been hired by some rather...curious fellows to transport something of national importance to their homeland. I’m not certain what it is; only that it’s magical in nature. None of my pilots have the constitution to survive prolonged magical exposure, and like hell I’ll ask any of my competitors...so I’ve decided to outsource to a third party. Honestly, the price will be worth it if I can secure the exclusive shipping rights! Just be aware that the flight plan maaaaay have a small issue with air pirates.
>Rank: B
>Riders Added: Collateral Damage (Cargo), Quick Delivery
>Total Offered Payment: 19 Large Motes

>Recommended Outgoers: 1-2
>Special Note: Aircraft Required (Fighter Craft)
>Sky-High Stars: Greetings! We are the Lomuri Group, and we are in urgent and desperate need of mid-flight escorts for our one-of-a-kind, first ever Air Concert Series starring the Lovely Six, our nation’s most popular musical act! We have gotten word that powerful individuals have designs on the lives of our precious girls; however, with our limited manpower at this time, we can spare little force to root these rogue influences out. We request you fly ahead to the sites, and take care of such things for us.
>Rank: B
>Riders Added: None
>Total Offered Payment: 25 Large Motes

>Recommended Outgoers: 3-4
>Special Note: Aircraft Required (Fighter Craft)
>Sky Chase: Who we are is of no concern. We are in need of a small, capable pilot and warrior team to travel to and destroy a high-priority aerial carrier fleet target. Due to the desire to keep traceable actions to a minimum, we request that said pilots have their own aircraft. We strongly suggest said aircraft have air to air and air to ground capability.
>Riders Added: None
>Total Offered Payment: 27 Large Motes

>Recommended Outgoers: 1-3
>Special Note: Aircraft Required (Any w/sufficient cargo room)
>Guardians of the Dragon Express
>Hello! We, the Dragon Express School Board, are currently seeking capable transporters (with perhaps experience in defensive actions) to assist with a delicate matter; that of securing and transporting very precious fuel that some of our students have located. Why not recruit a bit more locally, you may wonder? It, unfortunately, is a matter of efficiency as well as relative price- the Dragon Express serves only itself and the pursuit of magical excellency, and we would prefer to not be beholden to any nation below the clouds. The location has also proven to be rather hazardous, as well- we yet have no takers for independent parties, and so turn to more...esoteric methods of advertisement.
>Riders Added: Collateral Damage (Cargo)
>Total Offered Payment: 22 Large Motes
>>
>>4103904
are these the prices after the deduction from the craft usage?
>>
>>4103904
>>Sky Chase:
>>
>>4103904
>Guardians of the Dragon Express
>>
>>4103913
Yarp.
>>
>>4103904
>Guardians of the Dragon Express
>>
>>4103904
oh well. same pay but different playstyle

Miranda takes the plane with Nura for
>Sky high

and maybe Lorelei takes the Hind with O&C for
Guardians of the dragon Express
>>
>>4103922
support
>>
>>4103904
huh, no rank for Sky Chase / Guardians of the Dragon Express?
>>
>>4103904
>Guardians of the Dragon Express
>>
>>4103946
Weird. Sky Chase is rank B.

Guardians is Rank C. Also it seems this is the one you're going to be doing.

Yay.
>>
>>4103918
By the way, boss, can you check if everything here is in order?
>>4092647
>>
>>4103959
I'm getting some TaleSpin vibes from this...
>>
>>4103960
Sure.

Also, I'll be running over the weekdays again.

Be prepared!

This one should be fun.

>>4103968
Had to pay my respects.
>>
>>4103904
>Higher and Higher
>>
So a milk run with Nura to test her performance? I want to take Izumi too but that will stretch the pay too thin.
>>
>>4103904
The Guardians job seems simple enough- knock on wood. Worthwhile getting your feet wet with the flight systems and whatnot, at the very least. Although, speaking of getting feet wet...it might be a good idea to bring someone along with you. They DID say one to three. So who knows.

You’re not sure who’ll be the one (or ones) to go with you, though...

After a quick check, seems like just about everyone is around and about in some capacity- no one’s on a job or readying for one. So...who to bring along? Perhaps Nura as a test, but who else, if anyone?

>Izumi
>Lorelei
>Mono
>Owlia
>Cylica
>Prima
>Jago
>None except Nura
>No one at all; go alone.
>>
>>4105156
>Izumi
>>
>>4105156
>>Cylica
someone has to be our face on this mission + she's a skylander too
>>
>>4105156
>Prima or Jago
>Owlia

Prima because they can interface with the transport and because we need to see how they handle the android bodies we gave them.

Owlia because she's the only one who we know has piloting ability.
>>
>>4105169
>Prima or Jago because

Damnit.
>>
>>4105168
it's been ages since we took any of our first recruits anywhere
>>
>>4105156
>Izumi
I want to bring one of the nerds but just one is just weird. Hopefully new girl won't fumble too much.
>>
Seems like we're goin' with an ol' reliable in asking Izumi. Let's see how it shakes out.

Writing.
>>
>another mission with Izumi
What.
Come on guys, not Owlia or Cy? the ones Nura is going to be with for most of her time? I regret being late everytime.
>>
>>4105279
right?
>>
>>4105279
>>4105284
seems like anons don't want to separate them or smth
>>
>>4105156
Might as well stick with the knowledgeable one- and the one most capable of getting things back on track if for whatever reason they go off the rails. It’s with this in mind that you knock on Izumi’s door- only to be greeted by Delilah, surprisingly. “Oh! Uh, hello!”

“Hi.” You raise an eyebrow. “Izumi here?”

“Oh! Y-yeah, we were just going over some, uh...some things. Y’know, about current events.” Ah. So they WERE investigating the sudden job issues… “It’s...well, I’m not certain of everything, b-but my guardian knows a few people, and HE said that there’s been a couple of shake ups in some businesses he knows, too...apparently a lot of them are thanks to some...group that’s in really close with the, uh...upstairs folks. Or at least one of them. But that’s just a rumor. I don’t know any more...”

“Honestly, that’s fine,” you admit. “And interesting.”

“What’s interesting?” Izumi asks, walking out of her room with a small folder. “Something up?”

“Nothing major, just wanted to see if you wanted to come on a milk run to warm up the new girl,” you admit. “She may not be getting out much, but she’s gonna at least get a taste of it if I have anything to say about it.”

“Ah.” She flits back between Delilah and yourself. “I...suppose I can join you on this. I’ll admit I’m a touch surprised, mind, but I suppose I won’t say now to helping keep someone on the right path. When do we leave?”

> “Actually, I want to talk to you about this potential...thing going on, first.”
> “I’ll let you know once I talk with Nura. Just wanted to see if you were in, thanks.”
> Other
>>
>>4105287
Man, think of the fucking loot Owlia can take and observe on site or Cy's teleportation/mind rewrite. Nura and Owlia nerding out/bonding about rocks and the clients rare fuel thing.
Disappointing. yes I mad. Yes I'm salty!
>>
>>4105333
>“Actually, I want to talk to you about this potential...thing going on, first.”
>>4105333
>>
>>4105333
>> “Actually, I want to talk to you about this potential...thing going on, first.”
>>
>>4105333
> “Actually, I want to talk to you about this potential...thing going on, first.”

>>4105344
I kinda wanted to see how Prima would get on with her new android body, plus all the high speed maneuvers she could do if she was jacked into the transport. Ah well, at least Izumi's a pretty good vehicle for going into Miranda's past...
>>
>>4105333
> “Actually, I want to talk to you about this potential...thing going on, first.”
>>
>>4105333
> “Actually, I want to talk to you about this potential...thing going on, first.”
Real? I guess Miranda going around about this stuff made Izumi curious.
>>
>>4105333
>“Actually, I want to talk to you about this potential...thing going on, first.”
ooh more info
>>
>>4105279
> Why even have other characters

Goddamn it. We didn't even bring a Skyworlder, or the new girl?

Fuck. Why.

>>4103165
This was me. Missing out on votes. Fuck.
>>
>>4105333
>>4106230
Oh, we are taking the new girl. Just nobody she'll be working closely with or who can evaluate her capabilities in her supporting role.

Instead, Izumi again.

And people try to pretend waifuas aren't a thing here.

> “I’ll let you know once I talk with Nura. Just wanted to see if you were in, thanks.”
>>
>>4105279
> 2 people voted for Izumi

> Wins the vote
>>
Running shortly.
>>
>>4106500
Welcome back, boss. How's life going for you?
>>
>>4106510
Relatively alright.

>>4106500
>>4105333

You hold up a hand. “Actually, I want to talk to you about this potential...thing going on, first.” You look to Delilah. “Mind if I take a seat?” She wordlessly moves aside as you plop down, Izumi and Delilah quickly following. “So, after I last talked to you guys, I managed to get a bit of personal time with someone...big. Probably important,” you admit. “Mab Cortical, if you’ve heard of her…”

Delilah shakes her head, but Izumi nods once. “Brilliant inventor, developed a lot of Outgoer systems. You talked to her?”

“Briefly,” you confirm. “Didn’t say anything too important, just that there IS something going on. Good, bad, or neutral is still up in the air, though. Might go all the way to the top, but that’s just speculation. At the very least, I’ve got it on good authority we should at least be A-Rank before going too far with it. But too far isn’t ‘at all’, so...” You motion at the folder in her hand. “That intel?”

“Just so,” Izumi confirms. “Delilah and myself were going to compare notes.”

“Well, don’t let me stop you,” you decide quickly. “I’ll just sit in for now?” The two look to each other, then nod their agreement. The folders are opened, and the session begins.

From what Delilah found out, there’s been a number of shifting tides across the city- obviously, but what her ‘Lawrence’ had apparently noticed was that several of the people he talked to were able to remember a few things that he thought suspicious- namely, that they all had grey hair. Normally, that’s not anything special around here- but he claimed to have talked to at least five different people in five different businesses. ALL of them said that someone fitting the general description of ‘grey haired and in a nice suit’ was put forwards as either a major partner or the new owner or something else.

(cont)
>>
>>4106611
It sounds all too easy- but then Delilah throws the wrench in things by claiming that according to Lawrence’s investigations, all of them come from different backgrounds and companies, from what he heard. So no obvious link there.

Izumi was able to get some news about a…’not-Outgoer’ group, apparently. At least, that’s what she called it. “‘Red Talon Group’. An organization that seems like their specialty is not having a specialty. Nothing to their name yet, nor anything more than a general list of services. ‘Outgoer duties’, catering, security, advertisement...the list goes on.” She frowns. “I can’t say there’s a link for certain, but it’s certainly suspicious...it’s apparently been around for some time, if in a much smaller form. It’s only recently they’ve managed to grow, from the looks of their website news. And again, nothing from Mr. Lawrence that indicates they’re a part of this group.”

“Hm. Well, that’s something to know...” but as for now...

>We’d best find a way to keep an eye on them for now. Just to be sure.
>Well, don’t worry about it for now. Right now, the big goal is us getting to A-Rank.
>Delilah, do you think you can press your Lawrence friend to fish up more info?
>Other
>>
>>4106613
>Well, don’t worry about it for now. Right now, the big goal is us getting to A-Rank.
Well, better to wait until more info pops up, it's too early to make other moves.
>>
>>4106613
>Well, don’t worry about it for now. Right now, the big goal is us getting to A-Rank.
>>
>>4106613
>"From what it sounds like, the best way to figure out what the hell's going on without stepping on too many toes is to reach A rank..."
>We’d best find a way to keep an eye on them for now. Just to be sure.
>>
>>4106613
>Well, don’t worry about it for now. Right now, the big goal is us getting to A-Rank.
>>
>>4106613
>Well, don’t worry about it for now. Right now, the big goal is us getting to A-Rank.
>>
>>4106629
>>4106613
I'll support this.
>>
>>4106630
>>4106629
Switching to this as well.
>>
>>4106629
Supporting.
>>
We must monitor this situation carefully.

Writing.
>>
One of the notability of a typical A rank is that power types can level cities. I guess Miranda fits? If Izumi is ranking up with us too then what are her specialties?
>>
>>4106613
>>4106629
>>4106635
>>4106643
>>4106658
You have to think on this a bit. "From what it sounds like, the best way to figure out what the hell's going on without stepping on too many toes is to reach A rank..." Everything pointed to that being a pre-requisite, for sure. Good thing you were going on a job now...even if it IS just to get a newcomer used to things. Crap, you’ll have to make sure she takes the test- chances are she’ll be able to swing being a Courier easily enough. But even aside from that, if there IS a relation, you want to know for certain. “Even so, we’d best find a way to keep an eye on them for now. Just to be sure.”

“Hm. The question is ‘how’, then,” Izumi muses. “Delilah, you have work, so that’s out…”

“I-I’m not great at that sort of thing anyway,” she admits.

Izumi next turns to you. “What about Miss Cortical?”

Hm. She WOULD be nice, but... “Possible, but I don’t think she’s likely. She was reluctant to tell me anything at all- I doubt she’ll put her surveillance to work for me. Heck, she outranks me. That whole ‘A-Rank’ thing again. I do have other people I know that I could ask, although I wonder if that’ll be a risk...”

Izumi frowns, but nods. “Maybe we can ask someone else later. Or...hm.” She pauses, but then shakes her head. “No, I’ll be away, so.”

“Wait, what?” you insist. “If you’ve got an idea, say so.”

“Well...she pauses. “You’re not the only one who has a few friends here and there,” Izumi points out. I may be able to get word out to some friends of my own, if we want to try that. They’re all loyal and honorable individuals. I’m certain they’d be able to hear a few things...although I’ll admit, none of them are Outgoers, so they lack certain...permissions.” She folds her arms, frowning. “If I weren’t going with you, I’d do the leg work myself...”

Oh. If that’s the case, then. “Well, if-”

“...but it’s also a good idea for me to work towards an A-Rank, to open more avenues to us,” she finishes, shutting down your line of thought. “So that’ll have to wait. Hmmm…any ideas?” she asks you.

> “We’ll just go with asking your friends. I just hope that they’re as good as you claim them to be.”
> “I’ll ask around myself, see if anyone can keep an eye out. Getting to know other people seems to be handy after all.”
> “Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”
> Other
>>
>>4106690
>“Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”
Yes, lets bring Owlia with us. she has literally never gone in a mission with us.
>>
>>4106690
>> “Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”
>>
>>4106690
> “I’ll ask around myself, see if anyone can keep an eye out. Getting to know other people seems to be handy after all.”
> "Went to a Nightmare Run fan meet-and-greet thing, and it wasn't the worst thing... Maybe I could do that again, see if there's a more official Q&A thing I could be a part of?"

And thus began Miranda's first experience with sci-fi conventions.
>>
>>4106690
>> “Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”

Sry buddy but I want owlia or cy for this mission.

Might drop my id again, it's been dumb since yesterday
>>
>>4106690
>“Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”
I'm voting for Cylica. Her mind bending will help a lot, as well as teleportation.
>>
>>4106690
> “Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”
Thinking about it, I want to take both O&C, even if that will plummet the pay per person.
>>
>>4106690
> “Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”
>>
Right. May have to reconsider that request...

(Also don't start voting early, that just mixes things up.)

Writing.
>>
>>4106690
>“Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”

Owlia + Cylica. Why not? It's not like we can't bring an extra person, like when Mono did her first mission and Miranda just supervised.

Have Owlia, Cylica, and Nura do their thing and Miranda can just supervise again. Observe how they work together and solve problems, and provide a safety net.

It's a milk run, after all. Also Cylica just recently rediscovered the joy of mind punching (also regular punching) people.
>>
>>4106690
>>4106734
Well, nothing really viable sticks out at you. At least, nothing save for one option. Problem is, it’s one that you’d already...bah, might as well ask. “Well...considering the new news, would you mind terribly if you stuck around here after all?”

She blinks. “Well, that was short lived. Although all things considered, I don’t blame the sudden reversal. I’m not really sure what the best option really is, but…”

“T-they are moving kinda fast, I think,” Delilah interjects, flinching only a little when you both turn to look at her. “Uh! I-I just mean that- that maybe it’d be...it’d be nice to have you around, Izumi. T-to help me, uh… help you, I mean. I-I’m not that good with the, uh, with the sneaking around and stuff, like I said earlier...” She shies away a bit, but a warm huff and a pat on the head is all she gets.

“Well, you do raise a good point there, don’t you?” she asks rhetorically, before looking at you with a shrug. “I guess I WILL be keeping an eye on developments here after all.”

Sounds like a plan. Although, that brings you back to square one...although honestly? You should get Nura checked out, first. She mentioned something about looking into it herself; you’d mentioned that she’d need to get licensed, so hopefully she’s been doing some self-study, so to speak… “Alright, I should get going…”

“Oh, are you sure? I was going to make crepes. Don’t want any?” Oh.

Well, crepes ARE hard to say no to...it’ll give you time to figure out how to approach Nura getting her license, too...

--------------------------

“Wait, what do you mean ‘you just got your Outgoer license already?!’” You could’ve SWORN she didn’t put that info in her resume- that seems like one serious absence! But here she is, flashing it in front of you: Courier, Rank B. Rank B of all things!

She shyly shrugs. “Weeelll, the other night, Lorelei told me that you’d probably take me on a training mission, since you’d done it before with the other new members. She suggested I just...go and do it first thing in the morning. She said I’d be a lock since I already had a bunch of experience in mercantile skills and defending myself, soo…” she shrugs. “It was a challenge, but I did make sure to try my best.”

“I...well...it’s good you’re such a go-getter.” You were...not expecting this. But it does make things simpler...in particular who to replace Izumi with...maybe another one of the R&D department. Make things a bit more like a team retreat. Problem is, do you want one, both, or heck, someone else entirely? It’ll really kill the earnings, but it may be worth it in other ways…

>Owlia
>Cylica
>Both
>Other

(Okay, letting this one lie for a day. THIS TIME IT'S FINAL.)
>>
>>4106800
>Both
>>
>>4106800
>Both
>>
>>4106749
>>4106806
This is me.
>>
>>4106800
>>Cylica
someone has to watch the lab + payment split. Cylica has better negotiation skills and we don't need to keep watch of her.
>>
>>4106800
>Both
>>
>>4106818
Personally I want to see how the three interact, since O&C have a drastic impact on each other that changes the dynamic.
>>
>>4106800
>Both
It's team nerd plus their grumpy mommy on a field trip. The assistant bot we bought can watch over their lab, thankfully.
>>
>>4106800
>Both
Get Nura to use her sneaky skills to steal/grab loot. Cylica is the face/talker, Owlia is the one who does the science stuff while Miranda does the bodyguard/observing work in the background.

Also,
>Nura the third wheel.
>>
>>4106800
>Both
>>
>>4106800
>B O T H
>>
>>4106854
You think so? How?
>>
>>4107350
Owlia (unless I'm mixing them up) on her own would be sicko mode enthusiastic, Cylica more reserved. Also I kind of feel like Owlia and Cylica would experience some sort of relationship tension if Nura were to just chill with one of them alone for too long.
>>
>>4107350
>>4107429
This, pretty much. Also Cylica would be pissed if we only took Owlia along given her Yandere inclinations.

Additionally Cylica is a crys-tech expert in her own right, Owlia gets lost in pure theory whereas Cylica is better equipped for applied theory.

Since Nura is new and appears to be easily rattled in social situations, just Owlia alone would probably end up with Nura getting a crystal in her brain.
>>
>>4107571
Speaking of crystals in brains, we should probably get Owlia checked up and see if there’s a way to integrate her’s a bit more securely, maybe reduce the scarring a bit too?
>>
>>4107626
This is a choice that ends up with Owlia having a crystal skull.

Huh.

Actually, fully encompassing the brain could allow for triangluated stimulation allowing for finer control of the power to different areas of the brain, and if we carved runic arrays we could maybe create a resonance to amplify her cognitive and perceptual abilities as needed.

Parallel thought processes maybe? Have a sensory perception program for assessing objects, autonomic overrides for exceeding physical limits, maybe the ability to remote control a robot body for dangerous experiments, etc.

Like a penetrative EEG cap.
>>
>>4107672
Lets not give owlia more ideas. Also, i'm pretty sure a person needs their bones to be alive.
>>
>>4107672
the tricky part is the transfering of squishy organic bits from inside a bone to inside a crystal, but I bet sal would know a way.
>>
>>4107888
Not all of them, just enough of the bones containing red marrow.
>>
>>4107890
Build the crystal skull by replacing bits of the existing skull at a time around the squishy bits.

Then slowly transfer more experiences and such into the skull until the squishy bit is left behind.

Ship of Theseus it.
>>
Both it is. Writing!
>>
>>4106800
>>4106806
>>4106807
>>4106821
>>4106875
>>4106899
>>4106908
>>4106966
Screw it. You’ll take both of them along, make it a full R&D outing. “Anyway, so we’re going to be bringing your workmates along, too.”

“W-wait, really?” She tilts her head. “All four of us?”

You shrug. “I don’t think I’ll be doing much here. The job is basically a transport and security job- courier business, mostly. I’ll be there to keep an eye on things, but aside from that, I want to see how you handle yourself. Besides, it’ll be good bonding between the three of you.” Provided they agree, at least.

“Hmmm...well, if you say so. I’m sure we’ll all get along VERY well!” She seems to regain some of that confidence from before...you’ve noticed that she gets a bit here and there in regards to that confidence. Might just be an act; in which case, you hope this gets her to shed her mask a bit. But, that’ll come later. For now…

“Hm? Me and Cy?” The two of them, thankfully, are in the labs, both of them working on something apiece- Owlia seems to be poking at her Sigil TransPortal Plates, while Cylica seems to be crafting a few magenta-colored crystals; not sure what those might be.

The girl in question looks up. “Really? That’s quite the grouping, alongside her.” You can tell she’s still not the biggest fan of Nura, but she’s hiding it well, at least. “Is there a plan behind this?”

“Team bonding,” you respond. “With all of you soon to be working in R&D together, I figured this is as good a way as any to get you all used to each other quick. I’ll be on hand to make sure things don’t go crazy, but for the most part, I’ll leave it to you. Reward included.” It’s a bit of a stinger, but if you’re not going to be doing the lion’s share of the work, then...well, it’s not like you can’t afford a bit of spare time, and ideally you’ll be back quicker than most jobs.

There’s a pause as the two look at each other, before looking back at her. It’s Owlia who speaks first. “Sure! Guess I could use some time outside, anyway. ‘Sides, might end up finding something neat!”

Cylica sighs. “Well...I suppose that means I’ll have to keep an eye on you. Just what IS this request and where are we going?”

Ah. “Good question. Let’s see here…”

>World Name: Lemera
>5 Major Continents: Hamura, Usalia, Teravina, Polaca, Ju-na
>Magical Level: High (Estimated 4000 Mana Recovery per night)
>Technological Level: Steam/Magic hybrid-based Transportation (Steampunk)
>Common Magic Style: Willed Magic, Formulaic Magic, Artifice Magic.
>Intelligent Races Known: Human (Magical Variant), Demon, Hapin (Rabbit-based), Goblin, Harpy.
>Local Rulership: N/A, Client location is an independent entity. School Board closest equivalent.
>Unique Notes: The Dragon Express is an independent and mobile location with no major obligation to any known nation, and has permission from all major nations to enter airspace/groundspace with certain restrictions.

(cont.)
>>
>>4108170

“...so there you go. Seems like a specialist school. A very relevant one, to boot,” you note, looking at Nura.

“If they have stuff like that, I wonder how they pull power sources,” Owlia muses. “...guess I’ll find out!”

“Just don’t get too distracted,” you idly warn. “Remember, we’re transporting things, so we’ll also need one of the ships…

“I’m thinking we bring Big Bertha!” Owlia says eagerly. When all she gets are strange looks, she clarifies. “I mean the carrier. I’ve been wanting to take that for a spin for a while!”

“Well, that aside…” you hazard. “Nura, you wouldn’t happen to have any gear you’d want to bring?”

She pauses, thinking. “Wellll...maybe a couple of things…”

“I’d suggest you get them,” you warn.

>Time for preparations. Anything from the store?
https://pastebin.com/R263U7Hp
>>
FIRST OF ALL
What's the look we want to have and how threatening do we want to look?

I'm guessing that a bodyguard of sorts, with maybe a B threat rank
>>
>>4108172
Don't think we'll need anything, but if I have to buy something then.

>Elite Soldier's Helmet

I guess Miranda can play the scary bodyguard/observer act.
>>
>>4108192
This.
maybe just take the super soldier get up we did back with mono's first mission. We're not gonna get motes for this one so no need to spend for Miranda.
>>
>>4108172
Get Nura a non-lethal option for combat, like a stun baton or the like.

Also, PICK UP OUR MANASTONE REVOLVER. It's been a while, and it'll look good on our hip for that 1930's adventurer chic.

I know it's unlikely, but I really hope Owlia's done some preliminary work on Sether Crystal ammo...
>>
>>4108203
i was thinking that one as well. maybe at least the chest, and the legs and get the aviator glasses plus our scarf as a bandana
>>
>>4108192
>Guardians of the Dragon Express
>Dragon Express
>>
BY THE WAY
we should pick up our stuff from the weapon-smiths and get everyone into the Meditation Room for mana-cost and social bonuses
>>
>>4108221
i guess?
>>
>>4108172
>>4108221
>>
>>4108221
Don't think he has finished our stitched-together weapon just yet, else he would have contacted us already.

+++ on getting everyone into the Meditation Room though.
>>
>>4108231
it's been like, five days or smth? we should at least pick up the rapier
>>
>>4108237
Oh yes, the rapier is needed then. Let's pick it up before leaving.
>>
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>>4108203
so, like this?
>>
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>>4108216
>>
>>4108241
replace the helmet for the aviator glasses and add the new scarf the we have as another head item(for our forehead) also add the mana shoes because we want our armor to be kinda fashionable(and extra mana is extra mana)
>>
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>>4108250
maybe we should use the ribbon wings for flight?
>>
We should get Nura to look plain as possible since she might be sneaking around (even with her "not easily seen" power) and avoid attention. She can be recon.

>>4108244
Ain't half of the items here we haven't bought yet, right? We can save the dragon girl set for when we try the "upgrade to A-rank" mission. Maybe.
>>
>>4108259
i'm pretty sure that the chest armor has a jet pack....i think.
>>
>>4108259
We can try the flight crystals instead.
we should also buy some parachutes just in case.
>>
>>4108269
we can take the fall. we also have our magical walls to hinder and negate the fall.
>>
>>4108267
no, our Ribbon Wings turned into a jet pack on minibot milk run
>>
>>4108274
i know, but i remember that the chest also had a jetpack when we took Mono on her milk run.
>>
>>4108273
Yeah Miranda can, but the other three would need some extra safety options. Just to be sure.
>>
>>4108276
can you find a reference?
>>
>>4108281
O&C come from a floating island world; they can handle themselves, but you are right with nura.
>>
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>>4108276
no mention of the jet pack in the pastebin either
>>
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>>4108172
Sooo...wings or no wings?
i vote for wings
>>4108284
>>4108281
O&C have 'Flight' listed as known techniques, but I'd like to leave the Flight Crystal with Nura.
>>
>>4108299
Yeah I'll vote for adding wings. Maybe we can look like the rocketeer
>>
>>4108301
then we need to change the chest armor for our jacket
>>
I may have to let this lie for tonight. Sleepy.
>>
>>4108305
good night boss!
>>
>>4108259
I'll support this list.
>>
...okay gonna post this before I come back to my senses, will also do it on Twitter.

I've been wanting to run a different quest for a while now, to be honest. Not that I dislike this one by any means, of course but I've had the urge to try my hand at something else. I'm not sure what, but if after this job MGFH took a break for me to run a different quest, would people dig that or no? Lemme know.
>>
>>4108387
sure, why not. i mean, its your quest and a break is better than a premature end.
>>
>>4108303
Nah, we can be an armored Rocketeer. As long as the wings turn into a jetpack I'm fine with what we have.

>>4108387
Depends on what kind of quest it is. But I'll check it out.
>>
>>4108387
A break is fine, so long as you promise to return to this one.
By the way, is it related to the April Fools Day thing you wanted to do last year?
>>
>>4108387
Not feeling it boss, but maybe if it's a short-term one or a one-shot. I play only this quest and none other.
>>
>>4108387
same as
>>4108422
desu, but do you. It would be nice to have something that didn't cross over with other quests, since I've skipped everything but artificer crossover.
>>
>>4108387
what >>4108392 said, yer' the boss.
>>
>>4108387
this:>>4108454

I wouldn't have found this quest without Artificer quest since I don't normally browse /qst/, and not interested in most quests when I do.
>>
>>4108387
I’d be willing to give it a shot. Any idea what sort of thing it’ll be?
>>
>>4108387
I mean, sure I'd play it.
>>
It might be a civ-lite (with a story focus, natch). I know full well a lot of people aren't into them, but I've wanted to try my hand at one for a while.

Also, just making sure, it's

>>4108259
that people want? or
>>4108299
with wings (top one)?
>>
>>4109405
>Wings
Become the Rocketeer
>>
>>4109405
Why not? It gave us limited flight last time.
>>
>>4109405
>>4109405
Wings work for me.
>>
>>4109405
sure, rocketeer.
>>
>>4109405
If people want the Rocketeer look,
>remove glasses
>replace with power soldiers AI headwear
>>
>>4109459
That would give us way too much Intimidation.
>>
Writing! Only one, maybe two posts tonight, just a heads up.
>>
>>4109464
Doesn't matter, we're acting as a body guard and Cy is the one doing the talking anyway.
>>
>>4109459
Agreed, especially since it also completes the set and gives bonuses to the rest of the other pieces.
>>
>>4109515
>>4109405
aw shit, you're right. rescinding my vote here>>4109447.
>>
>>4109515
Eh, it doesn't matter. since the one with the goggles won anyway.
>>
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saving it for posterity and that the anons can have a better understanding of what they are choosing.
>>
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>>4109547
i deleted that post because there was a mistake - anons asked for power armor and there was a jacket listed instead
>>
The four of you agree to split up to make equipment preparations and to meet back here, of course. You make your picks, largely of older equipment you’d bought already- no need to splurge if you’re mostly supervising. You also formally register yourself and the others for the job. It’ll split the take to near nothing, buuuut...well, you’ll see.

Just as you decide your ‘loadout’, you get a ring on your phone...checking it, you can see it’s the smith. “Hello?”

“Ey! Fixed up yer rapier, it’s good as new!” Grizzi’s rough voice rumbles out of the phone. “Me girl’s still working out your new crazy weapon, but reason bein’ she’s wantin’ to test some particulars out before she forks it back over. That alright?”

“Yeah, I’ll be there, sure.” Shouldn’t take too long…

When you arrive, you’re greeted by the both of them. “Hey, hey! Lookie there! Got yer Rapier all set an’ ready ta go!” He presents the weapon, and indeed- it looks much the same, maybe a bit thicker at the base, and clearly has some sort of metal added just on the edge. “Should be able to take a real poundin’, AND anythin’ you can dish out!”

“Fantastic,” you agree.

“An’ as I mentioned, yer sword...well, I dunno if I’d call it JUST a sword now, but it’s comin’ along,” Calla mentions. “Some issues with the weighting, though. Worried it might break if’n it hits in the wrong place. Not great fer what I’m trying to do with it.”

> “Can you tell me exactly what that is?”
> “It’s fine, I trust you with it. Just let me know when it’s done.”
> “Honestly, I’ll just take it now and we can call it field testing.”
> Other
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>>4109559
> “It’s fine, I trust you with it. Just let me know when it’s done.”
> “Can you tell me exactly what that is though?”
>>
>>4109559
> "So what'd you end up using out of what I gave you?"
> “It’s fine, I trust you with it. Just let me know when it’s done.”

Let's keep whatever she made a surprise for when it's ready.
>>
Clarification:

the 'Can you tell me...' option is 'tell me what you're making'.
>>
>>4109559
> “It’s fine, I trust you with it. Just let me know when it’s done.”
>>
>>4109559
> “It’s fine, I trust you with it. Just let me know when it’s done.”
>>
>>4109559
> “Can you tell me exactly what that is?”
> “It’s fine, I trust you with it. Just let me know when it’s done.”

Damn, its already hurting me that we won't be able to see this sword for almost a year.
>>
>>4109559
>> “It’s fine, I trust you with it. Just let me know when it’s done.”
>>
>>4109565
> “Oh, yeah, forgot to ask... did you see if this thing had a name to it?”
>>
>>4109559

You shake your head. “It’s fine, I trust you with it.” With the stabbing implement back in your possession, you nod. “Just let me know when it’s done.”

“Shouldn’t be TOO much longer. You about to head off?” she asks. You nod. “Then honestly, should be ready when ya get back, easy.”

Well, good to know. You’re looking forward to it- it’s clearly not some normal sword.

When you all reconvene, you’re surprised to see Nura in a skintight, black, leather-esque bodysuit that nonetheless appears to have padding in several areas- legs, arms, torso...seems like it might actually be worth something on defense. She’s also wearing a pair of work goggles- industrial, it seems, and from the looks of things they’re tricked out with a few extra things. Covering her up is a fluffy magenta overcoat, which seems to wear well on her. You can catch a flash of steel on her thighs underneath, as well; seems like she’s smart enough to bring something to defend herself. In her left hand is a large, steel suitcase; what’s in it you’re uncertain, but it does remind you that you need to suggest she gets a bag of holding. “Some of my tools,” she explains as she motions to the suitcase.

“Same here!” Owlia cheers. She’s, surprisingly, in full ‘engineer/scientist’ mode, having decided to forgo her powered armor entirely; instead she’s in a shirt and overalls, thick work gloves, and heavy boots. She still has her helmet, though, it seems for whatever reason, and a staff. “Since this is gonna be a transport mission, I’m gonna keep things light an’ all. Despite SOME PEOPLE worrying otherwise!” she glares slightly behind her at the approaching Cylica, who has a form-fitting suit on as well, although hers has a bit more of a traditional armor look to it. Very much like a dark knight.

“Sorry, but I’m NOT taking any chances with you, dear. Not when the briefing itself said that the area was dangerous,” she points out. “I’d rather you be safe and secure, and I really wish you’d wear your suit.”

“Look, I know how to take care of myself! It’s not like I’m not bringing it along!” she presses, frowning slightly. “I just want to take stock of the situation before I do!”

“Yes, but you don’t...gah, nevermind. That didn’t even sound right.” She sighs, shaking her head. “Are we ready to go or what?”

“Wait, I don’t what?” Owlia asks, both confusion and heat in her voice.

Cylica just waves her off. “Nothing, dear, I misspoke, I promise that.” She softens her face, locking eyes with her. “Just promise me you’ll be safe, hm? Stick close to me, right?”

“Okay, okay…” Owlia doesn’t look totally happy, but she acquiesces. “Let’s just get to the ship.”

Curious. You can see Nura looking between them curiously as well, but also not saying anything.

> Don’t say anything about it- they can work that out themselves. Time to go.
> Before you go, remind them that they DO need to work together for this.
> Other

(Last before leaving- for tonight and for the job.)
>>
>>4109592
>Don’t say anything about it- they can work that out themselves. Time to go.
>>
>>4109592
> Before you go, remind them that they DO need to work together for this.
>get everyone into the Meditation Room for social and mana bonuses
>>
>>4109596
Supporting.
>>
>>4109592
> Before you go, remind them that they DO need to work together for this.
>>4109596

Also, put one of our pistols on our belt if we're going for that Rocketeer look. Either the Manastone one or the K5 Bolt.
>>
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>>4109604
And of course I forgot the picture...
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>>4109592
Supporting >>4109596
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>>4109547
Why is intimidation bad? If we end up having to ride to the rescue, then with A++ intimidation we can win without a fight.
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>>4109596
>>4109592
Supporting.
>>
>>4109592
>>4109596
Supporting this.
I wonder if Cylica meant to say Owlia forgot to pack her armor to the bag despite claiming she did.

>>4109734
I remember Handler saying in the past that when stats get very high they can have unexpected results. I'm curious to see what each of the stats does when they go too high but anon probably doesn't want to deal with that.
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>>4109734
from the first thread:
>Note: Artificially dropping a rank past E CAN happen- basically there'll just be a counter of how many points you need to gain in that section to bring it back up to Baseline. It'll look like this: (Stat): E-1/2/3/4 You get the idea. There may be repercussions for this, though. Be careful.
<--and then there's the picrelated from the second job.

Going through E- to A+ is okay(ish), they have pros and cons. However, overloads (E-- and A++) count as straight up penalties.
Intimidation A- is high enough to scare off most folks anyway. In the past, due to our high Intimidation clients were wary or scared of us and people accused us of being harbingers of doom and called hit squads on us (like lizards from western world or driders from shadow war mission). I think it's fair to assume that with A++ folks would run screaming for guards at first glance wherever we go, enemies would bring bigger guns and our clients would enforce some stupid limitations in order to protect their image and reputation. They are an independent extra-national school, and an international scandal involving Enclave storm troopers is the last thing they need.
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>>4109592
>(Last before leaving- for tonight and for the job.)
>no mention of Rentals&Borrows
Does that mean that the nerds have picked their projects for us?
>>
Got invited to an after work thing. Exhausted. Will try to run tomorrow.
>>
Writing shortly! (Also might need to make a new thread...)
>>
Not related, but I have a dream the other day about an aquatic empire using whales as transports for their armies and VIPs.

The voice in my head at that time stated that the whales I was seeing were retinues for a single ambassador, and she was lucky enough to witness it the second time in all of her life. Weirdly enough, haven't thought about whales in literally years before that.
>>
>>4113296
Another thing, the whales were red, and had permanent grins like those depicted in cartoons.
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>>4113277
Might need to make a twitter post for the folks who skip the intersection stuff.
>>
>>4113296
Not related, but I had a dream where the setting was that this one Earth existed in a weaker area of dimensions so they could send people into parallel realities.

Which they did. For salvage.

Dimensional travel didn't work on Earth because something was eating them.

All parallel Earths are dead.

However a significant number of parallel universes got into space. Many as if in a desparate attempt to escape. Many with AI creations left behind. None of them recognizably human.

Auditory hallucinations, anxiety attacks associated with physical feelings of pressure, imminent feelings of doom (a real IRL medical condition, google it.) are commonly reported during salvage dives. Luckily, the first dives were solo and duo piloted spaceships. Otherwise people might never have figured out that the more people present the sooner they, too, were eaten and never returned.

Despite the inhuman and alien nature of recovered artifacts recovered, there was a clear theme of something driving Earths to their deaths. Something that had will and intent, that used it to hunt the remaining survivors to exctinction.

Anyways just like with any games I ever try to run the dream was 90% worldbuilding while travelling in a dive-ship with my dream brother (I don't have one) with third person perspectives of historical events in different universes being caught in a Cthulu-style war of some kind in each one.

We found a sattelite and took it back because it used unknown polymers in its construction, and appeared to be built by weaving polymer fibers together.
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>>4113296
>>4113303
>>4113406
Anons, you can go to /b/ or /x/ or blogspot for this shit.
This thread ain't your dream diary.
>>
>>4109592
>>4109596
>>4109598
>>4109604
>>4109623
>>4109735
>>4109739
You huff a bit. You don’t need this kind of discord right before a job. “Alright, before anything else, let’s be frank- we ARE a team. Whatever’s going on right now, we need to work together for this, alright?”

“Of course, of course…” Cylica dismisses. “It won’t be an issue.”

“Just to be safe, I think it’ll be a good idea to show you the use of a particular room that we use from time to time…” you decide.

The meditation room should prove to be useful...if Owlia can calm down enough to really utilize it.

Cylica seems to find it soothing, at least, and Nura seems to find it old hat. When you get out, however...Owlia seems...not lost, but perhaps a bit confused. “You alright?” you ask her once you’ve come back out.

She doesn’t even turn to look at you, instead going immediately towards Cylica and wrapping her arms around her from behind as you walk to the aircraft. “Yup. Sorry, hun.” You’re pretty sure that last bit was directed elsewhere...

Cylica just sighs. “Oh, it’s fine. I was being overdramatic. Come, let us be off, hm?”

Finally. As the lot of you clamber into ‘Big Bertha’, something comes to mind. “Right. Oh, Owlia, before I forget. What about your experimentals?”

“Oh!” She brightens a bit at that. “Since I’m coming along, I bought a couple of them myself. Transportal Plates version two, Levitation Crystals for everyone-” at that, she passes them out, “-the revitalization barrier, and the comms system. I don’t wanna bring Z1 on this one just yet, in case we damage something or someone we really don’t wanna.”

“Fair enough. Well, then…” “Sal? We’re set.”



…? “Sal? Where are you?”

“Oh! Sorry, dears! Just in the middle of something, was a bit distraaacted.” Huh. That’s not normal…

...but you don’t have any more time to think on it, as you’re blinked out of there, ship and all, the mission officially underway.

>JOB STARTED
>>
Alright, yeah, I'm making a new thread.
>>
We're live in a new thread!

>>4113541
>>4113541
>>4113541



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