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File: Miranda Styles 92.png (340 KB, 577x894)
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Unlike most other jobs, you don’t see what things look like immediately as the light in your eyes clears up. That’s due to being inside of a plane, though, duh. Still, there’s at least buildings outside the windows that show that you’re at least on the ground, so that’s something. Part of you was worried that you’d just...show up mid-air or something, like how Dynamic Methods had that one time.

But, if nothing else, with how everyone’s looking around cautiously, you’re pretty sure you’re in the clear, so you’re the first to speak. “Alright, everyone on me. Let’s go meet the clients…”

With that, the girls form up on you, and you open the door- to be hit with a light burst of wind as you step out into the sunshine. A very low hum meets your ears as you walk out onto the steel flooring, a number of buildings in the distance, all sharing the same metallic brick red coloring. You can see a clear dome atop one in the distance- some greenery within, and you wonder if that’s a greenhouse.

“Uhhh...so...are we...in the sky?” Nura asks. Sure enough, you look to either side- although a surprising ways off, it’s clear that those clouds are closer to being level with you than being *above*.

“Hoho! That you are!” an old, yet jolly voice rings out behind you. You quickly swivel to see an older, somewhat heavyset man in some simple, brown and black robes step out from behind the plane itself. He’s got a thick, full, beard with his hair- seems he’s lucky enough that despite both still greying, he’s retained his locks. He walks with a cane, and greets the lot of you with a crinkly, yet warm smile. “Beg your pardon for the surprise- seems like the summoning got us a bit turned around! I’m Head Magister Lambert, and I welcome you to the Dragon Express!”

Welcome back to Magical Girl For Hire!
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Magical%20Girl%20For%20Hire%20Quest
General Pastebin: http://pastebin.com/u/MGFHQHandler
Character Details: http://pastebin.com/9J70gqM2
FAQ: http://pastebin.com/8unLWUjF
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MGFHandler
Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/Q5Q1MR92
>>
>>4113541
“Whoa…” Owlia breathes as she looks around. Her outfit hasn’t changed at all, and neither has Cylica’s, a similar astonished look on her face. Nura is simply baffled in general, her outfit roughly the same as well. You think you’re the only one with any major differences; your glasses are more rounded, more coke-bottle, and your gloves are a touch thicker, but still fairly thin compared to your compatriots. Your torso and leggings have shifted to something more steampunk, with a number of small, pivoting pipes to allow for articulation, and don’t look nearly so high tech. A quick check of your back shows that the wings are something closer to a rocket pack, though the actual ‘wings’ seem to still be there, and more for steering than flapping. The scarf flows well around you, and you think it’s a bit thicker and longer as well- enough to cover up the lower half of your face easily. Kind of a hazard, but you’ll worry about that later. Your shoes are thicker, too. More sneakers than anything else. “This is a pretty big airship…” she mumbles.

“Aha, well, that may be because technically, it’s multiple!” he says cheerily. “The Dragon Express is, in truth, a caravan of numerous airships, all strung together for ease of access between our students.” He steps forwards to extend his hand- any fear in him is completely unnoticeable. “Now, I take it you’re here to assist us in our little transportation issue. Who might I have the honor of speaking to?”

“Oh!” Owlia blinks. “Serval, hi!” Serval? Really? “Pleasure ta meetcha!”

Cylica simply cocks an eyebrow. “Mm.” You’re not sure what that means. “Cyrene. Greetings.”

“Ah. Aria, if you don’t mind…” Seems like Nura gets the picture, at least.

“And you, young lady?” he prompts with a smile and a nod.

“Zinna,” you decide on after a moment. First thing that pops up to you. “And…”

> “I’m just here to supervise them.” You’ll be taking a backseat, after all. You meant it, from end to end.
> “I’d like to know just what we’re transporting.” You’re going to at least give them a bit of guidance here and there…
> "Can you give a full rundown of the situation?" Might be best to take the reigns until you actually get all the information...
> Other
>>
>>4113575
> “I’m just here to supervise them.” You’ll be taking a backseat, after all. You meant it, from end to end.
> Signal the others to lead the talk.
>>
>>4113575
> “I’d like to know just what we’re transporting.” You’re going to at least give them a bit of guidance here and there…
>>
>>4113541
Might want to put the loot list with the pastebin stuff, along with the new item graph thing someone came up with. Anyone got that, by the way?

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

>>4113575
> “I’d like to know just what we’re transporting.” You’re going to at least give them a bit of guidance here and there…
>>
>>4113575
> “I’d like to know just what we’re transporting.” You’re going to at least give them a bit of guidance here and there…
>Signal Cylica to lead the talk next
>>
>>4113602
They are still unofficial though
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1H43OFoxE9QyMgIqBg_YdPO7IPn7_ES6iST7Xnv9Ou7Q/edit?usp=drivesdk
>>
>>4113611
>>4113602
Not anymore! Made copies.

Please still keep up to date on these, though. I'll probably miss more than one thing.
>>
>>4113575
> “I’d like to know just what we’re transporting.” You’re going to at least give them a bit of guidance here and there…
> Signal the others to lead the talk.
>>
>>4113615
Of course
>>
>>4113575
>> “I’d like to know just what we’re transporting.” You’re going to at least give them a bit of guidance here and there…
>>
We'll nudge them here and there...

Writing!
>>
>>4113575
>>4113597
>>4113602
>>4113607
>>4113616
>>4113629
“...I’d like to know just what we’re transporting,” you finish. You’ll nudge them here and there, but this is largely their show- you give a pointed glance back towards them, Cylica in particular, to indicate that. “Just to be sure. You said it was fuel?”

“Oh, of course, of course! If you don’t mind following me- this wind is getting a touch stiff.” He proceeds to hobble towards the nearest door- seems to mostly be a service entrance. As you get in and proceed down a few stairs, he starts talking. “Right, right. So, to put it simply, we here are quite in need of fuel to keep ourselves moving about the world. Best way for our young mages, artificers, and whatnot to gain experience, after all! It’s called ‘Ivonium’; it’s commonly used for great feats of magic as well as fuel, incidentally. Named for its glossy, white color, it’s something of a prize amongst magical sorts. And what’s more, it only forms in certain areas; extremely hot and magically abundant areas, where it tends to show up in liquid form, or deep, deeep in the earth, where it can be found in a crystallized form.” Owlia’s eyes light up at that, before he keeps talking. “However, one of our more...rambunctious students and her friends went on a bit of an...unauthorized excursion recently. They’re all safe and sound- but she reported back sightings of what I can only presume to be large volumes of liquid Ivonium among the landmasses they ventured across. Big as one of our pools, she claimed. Now, Ivonium in its raw states is...a touch volatile. It can warp processed magic if you’re not careful, and it can be toxic to ingest or touch for too long if one if not of the right constitution. So it is not an easy task to gather the fuel.” Hm. So that’s another reason why they couldn’t find anyone, most likely…

“Do you have a method to do so, then?” Cylica asks. “Or will we have to develop one ourselves?”

He sighs as he comes to what’s labed the 3rd floor. Opening the door, you can see a large walkway, very securely walled off by glass walls towards the outside, giving a nice view, but keeping people secure. There’s a few younger children milling around, many in traditional wizardish robes, although they’re at least at a reasonable length and don’t drape. Several turn to look at your procession in surprise, though others seem to not notice. “Yes, although it’s a touch...limited. Normally, Ivonium is not found in such quantities. If she’s at all accurate, then we’ll need to make certain it can be gathered in a reasonable time frame. We're remodeling some gathering tools in order to assist with that. But they'll take a minute or two...”

(cont.)
>>
>>4113702
“So...you DON’T want us to leave immediately?” Owlia asks.

He has the good grace to blush. “I’m afraid your punctuality, while certainly admirable, inadvertently reflects a touch poorly on us. We should have the necessary adjustments made to our tools in a day or two. Honestly, it’s partially why we requested you to have your own transport. We have a very particular flight plan- and it’s not easily diverted or delayed, I’m afraid.” He sighs. “The joys of international politics…” he mumbles, clearly sarcastic.

“So what do we even do right now?” Owlia follows up. “Just...hang out for a bit?”

He strokes his beard as he considers. “Well, you could familiarize yourselves with our general protocols for fuel gathering; those shouldn’t change. But they also shouldn’t take more than a couple of hours. I could also send someone to show you around a bit, perhaps to your temporary housing, or you could feel free to enjoy our Express’s wonderful open features at your leisure.”

> Anything else to ask right now?
> “In that case, you three try not to break anything. I’m up for the grand tour.”
> “Figuring out the do’s and don'ts sounds like a good idea.”
>>
>>4113704
> “In that case, you three try not to break anything. I’m up for the grand tour.”
> "So it sounds like this whole operation is independent from any government. How exactly are you able to keep anyone from getting any ideas to bring you into their fold?"

We should probably keep an eye out for the armory, maybe get a new toy for the job.
>>
>>4113704
> Anything else to ask right now?
>who else might come looking for Ivonium? Any competitors or other people of ill intent?
>what else can you tell us about that area? Any other dangers?
> “In that case, you three try not to break anything. I’m up for the grand tour.”
>>
>>4113720
Supporting.
>>
A few more questions, it seems. Writing!
>>
>>4113704
Supporting >>4113720

>magical petroleum
Oh man who's the USA in this world...
>>
>>4113704
>What is the nature of Ivorium's toxicity?
Is this like the Seither mana overflow? I would hope not in a world with 4000 mana per day regen. Gotta be some sorcerers around in this universe. Though if it is, we can just handle the stuff with limited risk. I'd expect it's toxicity is in it's mana "warp"ing properties.
>>
just though about this, but if this is a test run to test those three, should we change our control from miranda to one of the three others? Maybe Cylica(since she's the most 'leader' type person amongst the three?)?
>>
>>4113786
bugger, I went backlog diving for terminology for too long and missed the call.
>>
>>4113851
All in due time. Barely just got here.
>>
>>4113575

> “I’m just here to supervise them.” You’ll be taking a backseat, after all. You meant it, from end to end.
>>
>>4113704
> Anything else to ask right now?

Since we're here, let him know we're willing to help out maybe with some other things in exchange for tech and info.

It's a good deal, normally we're MUCH more expensive than the trainees.

We can agree to not disseminate proprietary tech in their world, so no worries there.

> What do you specialize in?

> Blowing shit up.

> . . . . uhhhhh . . . . .


> Got any mountains that are in the way? I could pop one off quick for you.
>>
>>4113889
Pretty sure popping one off at... pretty much any target would get our client in international hot water.
>>
>>4113704
>>4113720
>>4113725
>>4113796
“Couple more questions, if only to sate my own curiosity,” you find yourself asking. Might as well give Nura an understanding of the standard plays. “Who else might come looking for Ivonium? Any competitors or other people of ill intent?”

“Oh! Well, I’m not entirely certain, to be honest,” he admits. “They noticed only some locals nearby. If this was known or not before...well, they DID state they informed some of the locals due to their adventure, but otherwise, well...it’s technically within the Republic of Vinse, in Polaca. They’d try to gather this up were they to hear about it, I’ve no doubt, despite our rights to do so as agreed upon…” He shakes his head. “Nevertheless, I’d hope that the only real concerns you have are the local wildlife.”

Hm. That doesn’t sound great. “Oh yeah? What kind of dangers are there?” The lot of you walk past a large area where it seems several would-be mages are playing some sort of game involving one side launching earthen discs at the other, who’s shooting water at them. Seems interesting.

Lambert notices as well, and smiles briefly before answering. “The island chain they were in is known for both its astounding beaches, AND its particularly dangerous wildlife in certain parts of the islands,” he admits. “Many of them have natural magical ability, such as the Red Bambalos and its enfeebling ability, or the Dakra and its water manipulation. Several of the islands in particular, such as Lonta, is feared for its scalding hot mud traps. Natural sinkholes of boiling dirt- simply nasty if you’ve not the Earth magic skill to deal with it,” he insists. “One of the most feared beasts in all the world makes its home on those islands- the Tyrant Lorazard.” Well, that sounds ominous. “The few locals that live on the chain don’t even get near the island that it’s on- the ‘Broken Island’ Jarma. However...” he looks at you knowingly.

“Lemme guess, that’s where the most Ivorium is?” she asks.

He nods. “Just so. All the more reason we’d rather you not be there for longer than possible. In fact, we’d rather you not be there at all, but we ARE facing something of an issue in that regard…”

“Gotcha.” You think you’ve heard about enough, and with that, you turn to the trio. “In that case, you three, gather more information as best as possible- and try not to break anything. I think I’m going to take him up on that offer for the grand tour.”

Lambert beams. “Oh? Lovely! Come, we’ll go to my office, and I can call one of my fellows- Jennifer, I think you’ll like her. She’s a rather good-natured lass; you might get along well. She teaches the Basics of Mystic Defense. Should be off-duty right now, though, likely tinkering about in her room...”

Well, at least there's some down time before things kick off.

>Pick someone to follow:

>Owlia
>Cylica
>Nura
>>
Resuming tomorrow afternoon.
>>
>>4113943
>Nura
Just like last time when we follow Mono's perspective.
>>
>>4113943
>Cylica
I'm curious how it is to live in Cylica's shoes, and how she sees Miranda! She might even be the weakest of the group at the moment and that sounds interesting.
>>
>>4113943
>Cylica

She seems the most likely to take a leadership role.
>>
>>4113943
>Cylica
>>
>>4113943
>Owlia
>>
>>4113943
>Nura
>>
>>4113943
>Cylica
Hopefully we can switch perspectives when Nura to is doing some recon.

Handler, don't forget to add Nura to the agent info pastebin, as well as her abilities.
>>
>>4113796
As I imagined them, Usalia/Teravina are basically 'NA+Western Europe/ Eastern Europe+South America- but with Tesla electric inventions and magic.'

The Republic of Vinse is more or less an independent Hawaii mixed with New Zealand with less modern day issues, and Polaca is based off of the Philippines/SE Asia. Ju-Na is Japan if it had a continent more or less the size of Australia. And not islands.
>>
>>4113978
heh, nice to know we're gonna be having a trip to the magical equivalent of my country or Indonesia.
>>
>>4113943
>Cylica
Probs her forst, maybe later for Nura
>>
So we're playing as the Imperious One. Interdasting.

Writing, will begin shortly.
>>
>>4113943
>>4113955
>>4113957
>>4113958
>>4113976
>>4114056
>You are now Cylica.

Well, that’s rather rude of her. Just sashays off to do as she pleases, hm? Doesn’t even have the good grace to stay around- just going to wander off in the midst of duty, then? It’s unbecoming of her.

Then again, since taking that rather...questionable deal, you’d admitted that she was largely professional up until now, so you have to admit that just makes this all the more annoying. The one good thing, at least, is that it means you don’t have to watch your words quite so much, perhaps. However…

...that oversized orange tart is still with you. Well, FINE, perhaps ‘tart’ is a bit much...barely. That ‘meditation room’ gave you a bit of time to cool off. Perhaps it’s simply within her nature instead of a conscious response to flirt. That’d be more understandable, if just as unallowed. Regardless, you’ll have to keep an eye on her. Sweetheart your Owlia is, she’s unlikely to recognize her amorous attempts without crystals being involved.

Nonetheless, it’s clear you’re supposed to act as the leader of your troupe for this outing, and so you shall. Really, though. Fly there, acquire this liquid resource, fly back, done. As simplistic as your life’s become, this’ll hardly be an issue, craven beasts be damned. First thing’s first…

> “Show us where the tools to collect this Ivonium are; we’ll have to familiarize ourselves with them rapidly, so may as well do so now.”
> “I trust that we shall be paid in accordance to the contract promptly, correct? Would you mind providing veracity of such, correct?”
> “Exactly where are we to bring the substance upon collection? Is there a permanent storage area groundside, or are we to fly it up here somehow?”
> Other
>>
>>4115127
> “Exactly where are we to bring the substance upon collection? Is there a permanent storage area groundside, or are we to fly it up here somehow?”
> “Show us where the tools to collect this Ivonium are; we’ll have to familiarize ourselves with them rapidly, so may as well do so now.”
>>
>>4115127
> “Show us where the tools to collect this Ivonium are; we’ll have to familiarize ourselves with them rapidly, so may as well do so now.”
>>
>>4115127
This>>4115133
>>
>>4115127
>“Show us where the tools to collect this Ivonium are; we’ll have to familiarize ourselves with them rapidly, so may as well do so now.”
>>
> “Show us where the tools to collect this Ivonium are; we’ll have to familiarize ourselves with them rapidly, so may as well do so now.”
>>
>>4115133
Supporting.
>>
Writing!
>>
Hmmm, we will need to rectify these unmatched gears. I'm surprised Cylica haven't talked to Nura about what's right and what's out of the line. I guess she's not that confrontational?
>>
Well looks like Handler passed out again.
>>
>>4115375
More or less.

>>4115133
>>4115139
>>4115145
>>4115151
>>4115155
>>4115161
Might as well ask the important questions, as he places a call through some sort of horn device. “Exactly where are we to bring the substance upon collection?” you inquire. “Is there a permanent storage area groundside, or are we to fly it up here somehow?”

“Ah, of course! Well, we have an area for that, fortunately. Come, let me show you.” With that, he leads you off, and shows you away. The clouds are moving slowly, and you realize that there’s a great number of ‘cabins’ in front of you as well. An impressive setup, really. You can’t think of anything as big even back home…

“Rather astonishing, isn’t it?” Ah. Seems he noticed. “The Dragon Express has been around for centuries. Many say it’s a modern wonder. We’re truly fortunate to have inherited it, and to continue to spread its mission throughout the world.

“What mission is that?” Nura asks curiously.

He smiles and nods, the question expected. “The Dragon Express is dedicated to the furthering of mystical knowledge and ability, unbound by borders or legislature. We are devoted wholly to bringing up mages capable of changing and protecting the world, and all who live on it.”

Hmph. Cute. If obviously rather naive. Sooner or later, SOMEONE is going to get the idea to use their power for more...personal reasons. But, it’s not any of your concern at the moment. You’ll let him believe his silly ideals for now.

You’re eventually brought lower, and you find yourself in the front of what seems to be six massive steel vats, each as big as a maybe a house itself, of what you can just notice is viscous fluid, judging from the small window. The first two are visibly filled- but the rest don’t seem to be so, from what you can see from this angle. “This here is the Ivonium basin for this section,” Lambert announces. “You’ll be bringing the fuel from there, to the landing pad, and we’ll bring it here- we have a service elevator that’ll help you out there.”

(cont.)
>>
>>4115393

That’s at least a bit of help. “I see. Well. It seems like we’ll have our work cut out for us, if it should be enough to fill these.”

“I have to wonder how we’re expected to bring enough back, though. We’re gonna be making a LOT of trips…” Nura notes with a bit of concern.

“It seems so,” Lambert admits. “We normally gain it in crystallized form; it generally results in us having to ‘melt’ it down, and we lose a deal of it in the process, it seems. Finding it in a naturally liquid form is rare, but welcome. This’ll be a great boon for us if it’s as much as they claim.”

“Then show us where the tools to collect this Ivonium are,” you continue. “We’ll have to familiarize ourselves with them rapidly, so may as well do so now.”

“Certainly. Although...if you don’t mind, I AM a bit on the elderly side.” He smiles. “I hope you don’t mind if I get someone a bit more...qualified to show you just what these things are and how to use them.”

“I suppose that’ll be acceptable,” you decide. “So, then. Who’ll be showing us?”

He smiles. “A friend of mine, his name is Alexandre. Quite the intelligent fellow. You’ll like him.”

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

“Well well! Aren’t you quite the lookers! And we have these lovely ladies helping with our little fuel problem? I’m honored!” Alexandre is...something, to be sure. Something -annoying-. His long blond hair is just preventing you from seeing his eyes consistently, and his purple and black shirt and jeans just bring to mind someone ready to go out to party, not work. And that grin of his. An idiotic phlianderer, no doubt. “I’m sure you’re all interested in our Ivonium Retrievers, so I’ll give you the rundown of how to operate them on a general level; and afterwards...perhaps I can tell you more about their features over lunch?” He flashes a megawatt grin, and you’re both angered and impressed at his sheer brazenness.

> “We’d prefer to keep things direct and professional, thank you. Just show us how to use the devices.”
> “I should warn you to cease your foolish attempts at flirting. Not only are they weak, they are completely wasted on us in particular.”
> “Owlia, I would suggest perhaps we not. We’re quite intelligent enough to figure it out on our own.” Nura can be a floozy if she wants, but you? No.
> Other
>>
>>4115398
> “I’d prefer to keep things direct and professional, thank you. Just show us how to use the devices.”
Hopefully he'll get the hint, plus it gives Nura some leeway to flirt with him for information gathering.
>>
>>4115398
> “We’d prefer to keep things direct and professional, thank you. Just show us how to use the devices.”
>>
>>4115398
>“We’d prefer to keep things direct and professional, thank you. Just show us how to use the devices.”
>>
>>4115398
> “We’d prefer to keep things direct and professional, thank you. Just show us how to use the devices.”
Real name slippage on the third option.
>>
>>4115424
Right, sorry.
>>
Unrelated, but what was Jago's reaction to the nerd's new assistant bot?
>>
>>4115437
It's been a while, but I remember he rated both Prima and the tap dancing oujo's bot on a one to ten scale. I wonder how he'd rate the new bot?
>>
>>4115398
> “Owlia, I would suggest perhaps we not. We’re quite intelligent enough to figure it out on our own.” Nura can be a floozy if she wants, but you? No.

Now I'm curious about who or what they inherited the Dragon Express from.
>>
>>4115398
Well, regardless, you’re not interested in giving him any reason to keep up the idiocy. “We’d prefer to keep things direct and professional, thank you.” You fix him with the hardest stare. “Just show us how to use the devices.”

He smiles lightly, and shrugs, shaking his head, but clearly not wholly deterred. “Alright, alright. As you say. Follow me, and I’ll tell you all about it.” You do so, and you’re lead to an area further in the bowels of the ship with a number of large, vacuum-like devices in various states of disrepair. There are several smaller, backpack sized ones- the bigger ones seem to be more the size of a crate themselves. There’s a myriad of people working on building them, and in one corner of the room, the whirring of tests sounds out as they’re put through their paces. “This is where the magic happens,” he says with a smile. “Now, these devices might LOOK simple, but when you’re dealing with Ivonium, you have to be quite methodical and careful. Can’t just go slurping it up.” He chuckles at the imagery for whatever reason. “No, you’ve got to be careful to collect it at a specific rate or lower, else you risk a reaction, and you can’t collect too MUCH at one time without letting it stabilize first.”

Well, that sounded annoying, but nothing too worrisome. “And these will be what are doing the collecting?”

“Yup!” he confirms. “Now, since most of our big Retrievers aren’t quiiiite ready yet, we’ll get you started on the smaller ones. There’s certain ways to set the things up, depending on where you are and how much you plan on loading in. So lemme give you the rundown…”

In general, it’s, while not the hardest thing you’ve ever learned, surprisingly specific. The intake rate can only be so high, you can’t just dip the nozzle in, it should be only partially submerged, you have to take a twenty minute break per gallon you take in, etc etc...running the numbers...you realize that this is going to be more of a hassle than you thought. After about an hour or so of explanation and practice, however, it seems like you’re done here. “...and that’s the basics of it! Any questions?”

Well, not of how to operate the device, at least...looking at Owlia and Nura, neither of them seem to have issue, either. “If not, then...well, I’d say you’re likely free for the rest of the day. Now, lunch is upon us, and I’d love to get to know you better- so if you’re hungry, I can lead you towards this car’s lunchroom. I’m sure you’ll love what we have available.”

> Mm. You ARE feeling a bit peckish, but having to deal with this man…gah. “Very well.”
> “Actually, I’d like to know about our lodging situation. Were you informed?”
> “I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
> Other

(Done for tonight.)
>>
>>4115510
> “I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
LOSE THIS CREEPO
>>
>>4115510
>> “I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
>>
>>4115510
> “I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
Make him walk us around the place for a while, then ditch him when we finish the tour and he tries to ask us out to lunch again.
>>
>>4115510
welp, there goes my idea of simply throwing a bag of holding into the pool and let it suck all the ivonium straight away.

> “I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
>>
>>4115510
>> “I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
Wonder if we can do it faster with the Mana Condenser - Miranda's model was advertised to stabilize mana faster or something like that. Need to do something with the Seither gas stored in it though.
>>
>>4115510
> “I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
>>
>>4115527
Hey, if the cargo plane we brought with us uses magic as fuel, maybe we could use the seither to make the engine burn more fuel to go faster, like how nitrous oxide is used to make cars go faster?

Or how video games interpret how it's used, anyway...
>>
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>>4115534
I was thinking of using it to boost our training efforts - namely for the flying technique. Together with the jet pack we'd get as many training wheels as possible.
>>
>>4115510
>“I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
>>
>>4115510
>>“I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”
>> Other
dudemans is like big irritating. Could we like, look both ways, then fuck with his memory out of spite? Feels like a Cylica thing to do, also he'd probably leave us alone after that
>>
>>4116252
This is a terrible idea and I support it.
>>
I'm sorry, but jesus christ they're pulling me in all directions all of a sudden. I'm mentally burnt. I'll update folks on Twitter when runs will happen if it's before the weekend.
>>
>>4118941
Oof, that sucks, man. Hope work calms down for you soon.
>>
>>4118941
take care of yourself boss.
>>
>>4118941
It's all good. Best of luck!
>>
Sooo... Any ideas for side activities for this mission? Like trading stuff now that we have a team of couriers. Finding some crystalized Ivonium or aircraft components. Have Miranda try the local cuisines. Training?
>>
>>4122458
I personally think going on a memoey-changing rampage withe Cylica would be pretty dope, but I don't imagine mindwiping random people into giving us riches would even work for transmission into motes.

"Miranda, rocketeer gourmet" quest would also be pretty fun, having her living it up in the background was one of my favorite elements of Mono's trial run mission.
>>
>>4122458
I want to spar with Nura to get some rust off her first.
>>
>>4122573
I would back this.

Also brushing up Miranda's piloting skills.
>>
>>4122458
Train our flight skills -either our personal ones or the piloting ones-
Scan EVERYTHING. Who knows what we can find.
>>
>>4122458
>Souvenir hunting for the whole team.
A nice Mauser-style pistol and a Tommy Gun for Miranda to complete her Rocketman getup, leather aviation helmet and goggles plus a big club-like wrench for Owlia, and a pair of machine guns to be placed on a chin mount of the transport. Not sure what Cylica and Nura should get, I’ll probably get an idea later in the quest...

>Side expedition to a nearby temple ruin.
I’m getting an Indiana Jones vibe to the job, so why not? Maybe the local ancient tribes used to go there to offer sacrifice to their gods, either with gold and produce, or even possibly with mortal lives. There might be artifacts submerged deep in the lake of Ivonium, or some sort of creature living in it that we’d have to fight. And that’s not even getting to the possibility of fighting the local Nazi variant for control of the site.
>>
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>>4122622
> Not getting an actual mini rocket launcher added to it
>>
>>4122694
No, see, the rocket pods will be attached under the wings, which'll be firing crystal enhanced explosives derived from that grenade launcher ammo we got from the Artificer Crossover...
>>
>>4122458
How about trying to see if we can save fuel for our transportation by using Cy's portal or teleportation plate. We go to the fuel source, we have Cy and Nura transfer the resources via portal while Miranda guards the carrier and Owlia goes to check/research on the area.

Also:
>there might be a chance that other countries also has researchers poking around the area (we can steal their stuff or whatever)
>Maybe there's environmental activists trying to protest
>A shady org that's using the fuel for something
>>
Gah. Sorry, had to deal with some family get together organization stuff.

Writing now!
>>
You’d...really rather not spend more time around this fellow than is necessary. Time for an expeditious retreat. “I think we’ll take a look around before we do that. I’d like to see more of this place.”

“Ah, of course.” He smiles beatifically, and you immediately get an inkling of concern. “Our campus is like none other! I’m sure you’ll be rather surprised at the breadth and depth of our facilities!” And his smile grows a bit wider. “Perhaps we can have a bit of a tour of them, and afterwards-”

“Oy! Quit hittin’ on them girls and help me out, willya?” A wiry, green...human-thing (you forget what they’re called) working on the underside of one of the devices yells at him from across the room, and you privately thank the mechanic for his interference. “I need some help stringing these wires in ‘fore you go on lunch and go mackin’!”

His face falls a bit, but there’s still a grin on it. “Ahh. Alas, maybe you can get started and I’ll catch up, hmm?”

Yeah, no. “We’ll be off, then.”

“Of course. Be right there!” he calls to his comrade, and he thankfully, blessedly, finally leaves you alone. You and Owlia quickly take your leave, and you’re just as quick to turn to your beloved. “Right, then. Now that we’ve escaped THAT, the question now is where to being our OWN little ‘tour’.” You’ve no doubt that you can glean some interesting information if you play your cards right. “It may be best to see what other information we can gather around the surrounding environs for our mission…” you muse.

“Right, but how we gonna do that?” Owlia asks.

“Why not just ask the kids that went there?” Nura asks, causing you to jump- you’d honestly forgotten she was present. “No better source than...well, the source. Unless they’re having lessons right now...” She seems unsure, now that she mentions it.

“Maaaybe we could go ask a faculty member?” Owlia suggests. “There’s gotta be SOMEONE around that knows the score.”

Also an option. Then there’s simply going to the library- a setup like this is bound to have one. It’d likely take a deal of time just to find the relevant information, however...not that that’s entirely a bad thing in this situation.

> “We’ll simply go to the source- the young students that encountered it in the first place. If they’re in class...so be it.”
> “I suppose asking someone a bit more mature would be the quickest way to garner information…”
> “There’s undoubtedly a library somewhere hereabouts. That’ll have all the information we need and then some.”
> Other
>>
>>4128023
> “There’s undoubtedly a library somewhere hereabouts. That’ll have all the information we need and then some.”

Human interaction is not this teams first response.
>>
>>4128023
> “We’ll simply go to the source- the young students that encountered it in the first place. If they’re in class...so be it.”

>>4128031
And that’s exactly why we should do it, for potential shenanigans.
>>
>>4128023
>We’ll simply go to the source- the young students that encountered it in the first place. If they’re in class...so be it
>>
>>4128023
> “I suppose asking someone a bit more mature would be the quickest way to garner information…”
>>
>>4128023
>We’ll simply go to the source- the young students that encountered it in the first place. If they’re in class...so be it
Cy, try to be nice to Nura.

>>4128036
I support awkward and funny shenanigans featuring the haughty ex-ruler
>>
>>4128023
We shall interrogate these mage trainees at once. Writing!
>>
This will be fun with nura at hand.
>>
>>4128023
>>4128036
>>4128041
>>4128063
“No, no.” You’ve decided. You’re going to need accurate information- not intelligence that could be well outdated. Even IF Nura was the one that suggested it, you can’t deny that it’s the most reliable source of information you have access to at the moment. “I SUPPOSE we’ll simply go to the source- the young students that encountered it in the first place. If they’re in class...so be it.” This is far more important, and with that resolve in your heart you set out. “Now, we simply need to ascertain the identities of the wayward youths, and then find them. Considering it sounded like they’d become somewhat infamous, I doubt it’ll take very long to find them...”

Indeed, it took the better part of an hour to identify and locate them; although the group was well known (they apparently had a reputation that caused them to be nicknamed the ‘Wild Cards’), they were two cars over, apparently. The teacher that you’d talked to mentioned something about having them ‘cool off for a while in mandatory extracurricular study’. You’d managed to find the car, and it seems as though it’s something of a punishment; the area is notably less bright and colorful on the inside, and the hallways have simple iron doors with windows inside; there you see smatterings of children silently reading or otherwise doing little of importance, but otherwise carefully watched over by adults. Not a full room in sight. Now, you just need to- aha!

Room 308, and inside it, you can see a quintet of young kids dressed in the requisite mage robes sitting in a circle and talking to each other- the large rabbit fellow that was supposed to be watching them is well asleep, the incompetent. Two young human girls, one with short pink hair and the other long and silver, with the pink one the most animated of them. A short, but demonic-horned looking young boy picking his teeth and looking annoyed, alongside a fat, yet oddly young and large looking goblin boy himself, busy stuffing his rotund face on a packet of small cakes. There’s also a yellow-feathered harpy girl giggling at something you can’t hear.

Well, no time like the present. You have things to do.

By the time Nura starts asking something you’re not paying attention to, you’ve already thrown the door open, the bang rattling the frame. “Attention!” At once the five of them jump, looking at you in shock. The rabbitfellow stirs briefly, but returns to sleep, whiskers wiggling. Well, good. Less hassle. “Are you five the ones known as the ‘Wild Cards?’”

(cont.)
>>
>>4128193
The silver-haired girl immediately droops. “Oh dear, what are we being punished for now? I was under the impression that we’d been disciplined already…” Odd. She has an air of propriety around her...bah, nonsense. She wouldn’t be here if that was the case.

“Aw, yer not being punished!” Owlia quickly asserts. “Just wanna ask you some questions…”

“Tch. Sounds ominous to me…” the demon boy grunts out.

“We promise,” Nura says with an easy smile, with the demon-boy blinking in surprise as she slinks to the forefront and that bodysuit making itself quite known. How utterly shameless. “It’s to do with your little outing, but...not in a bad way. In fact, you can help out the school real well if you’re willing to tell us a few things…”

You can already see the demon boy’s mouth open and close in surprise as the rest of them eye you carefully. Ugh.

>Roll 5d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 4, 7, 11, 4, 12 = 38 (5d20)

>>4128194
Roll!
>>
Rolled 12, 7, 16, 6, 1 = 42 (5d20)

>>4128194
>>
Rolled 10, 20, 1, 20, 13 = 64 (5d20)

>>4128194
>>
>>4128206
wew
>>
>>4128206
Thank me later lads, and Nura is helpful as predicted.
>>
There are two individuals smitten with Nura right now.

And one who's in denial.

Writing.
>>
and that's how someone discovered that she is bi.
>>
>>4128252
/U/boats, in a magical girl setting?

Honestly I'd be surprised if we encountered a straight character romance outside of a crossover.
>>
>>4128194
As much as you hate to admit it, Nura’s...Nura-ness was enough to at least garner their interest, which ultimately lead to her tempting them out of the classroom (the demon boy called it ‘detention’, which you suppose makes sense), and towards a more private area- and by that you mean really just an empty room.

There’s a round of introductions- the pinkette cautiously introduces herself as Maya. The silverette is Vira Lamont; she even does a little curtesy, and you can appreciate the respect...if it were aimed towards you and not that horned harlot ally of yours! At any rate, the demon boy curtly introduces himself as Kirona, and to your utter unsurprise he has a difficult time meeting Nura’s gaze- THAT, at least, is understandable considering the similarities. Young boys will be such.

What isn’t is how the fat goblin child Pokka, tries to sidle right up to her, wagging his eyebrows. She even has the nerve to LAUGH at it, like he made a joke! You’re about to admonish the both of them when the harpy girl gently places a wing in front of Pokka and drags him back, introducing herself as Flit at the same time. She, at least, also seems a bit confused about all of this.

Well...at least you can talk with them now. “Now then,” you start after you all introduce yourselves as well, “Do you mind telling us just how you found that massive quantity of fuel? We’re hoping to acquire it for the Dragon Express itself.”

“Really?” Kirona asks in surprise. “Huh...I heard that the Head Magister was going to do something about it, but I didn’t think...well, I guess it makes sense.”

“Yup!” Nura cheerfully confirms. “We’re going to to be venturing down there on his behalf. So anything about any dangers, like the environment or other things like that? It’d be REALLY helpful, wouldn’t you agree?” She leans on the desk a bit, and your can’t help but give a slight glare; you’re better trained than to let it last longer than a second, though- business comes first.

The quintet look at each other. Maya is the first to speak. “Right...so, it was underground...at the Republic of Vinse, in Polaca. There’s this chain of ancient caverns called the Trials of the Faithless. Mostly just old ruins… or at least we thought.” Maya grimaces. “We just wanted to get a cool artifact for a school assignment while we were around there…”

(cont.)
>>
>>4128356
“I TOLD her it’d be foolish,” Vira states imperiously. “Of course, it’s only natural that it’d be better to have professionals only down there, regardless of our skill.” She gives a petulant glare at Maya. “YOU’RE the one that taught me that talent can only go so far, after all.”

“I know…” she murmurs. “Sorry…”

Vira just sighs. “So long as you know.”

“Cawww, it wasn’t THAT bad...I think…” Flit says uncertainly. “I mean, there were a lot of monsters...and those weird guys in masks...and the poison. But we did alright!”

“It was rough,” Kirona agrees. “But keeping on to explain that, we found ourselves going into the first cavern in high spirits; it’s on the biggest and most populated island- Tatun. It’s practically a tourist spot, so we figured it wouldn’t be a big deal.

“But it was super cool!” Pokka interrupts. “Turns out there was a section deep inside that no one had explored yet, and…”

And so, the story began. A lot of it was fluff and puff, but what you wound up paying the most attention to was:

One: the weird ‘men in masks’ they encountered- they sounded like by FAR the most eminent threat, despite their few numbers. Apparently, no one had any idea who or what they were, just that they were down all but the last ruin (out of three) they went into. They were sighted carrying wands, and none of the kids wanted to risk an encounter, so they managed to sneak past them.

Two: the supposed ‘weird looking monsters’ coated with Ivonium that they’d never seen or heard of before. They were called ‘scary’ by all present, and ‘something not quite normal’. They witnessed one of the beasts (that Maya and Vira described as being (giant, blue, slimy, and with too many eyes) getting destroyed by a single spell from one of the masked men.

Three: the fact that they’d managed to do this over three islands (apparently very close together, though, admittedly), with no one being the wiser until they’d nearly been left behind and had to be rescued by faculty from a large, bipedal, Ivonium-coated Black Raxous, a giant, carnivorous lizard like creature bigger than a house and extremely vicious and territorial.

It’s good information, but the question is- how can you utilize it? Aside from general defense, that is. It sounds like you’ll need to prepare for this in ways you haven’t already…

>Well, you’ll worry about that more tomorrow. This is YOUR job now, so YOU’LL handle it. Time to find your sleeping quarters.
>Hm. This may not bode well. As much as you hate to concede the point, Miranda may need to intervene.
>Other
>>
>>4128363
>Hm. This may not bode well. As much as you hate to concede the point, Miranda may need to intervene.
Hey esteemed leader, do you want to punch some goo-covered dinosaurs?
>>
>>4128363
>Well, you’ll worry about that more tomorrow. This is YOUR job now, so YOU’LL handle it. Time to find your sleeping quarters.
>>
>>4128363
>>Hm. This may not bode well. As much as you hate to concede the point, Miranda may need to intervene.
She IS the punchiest one out of the team.
>>
Random insight into my creative process (hah) for making prompts:

Sometimes I basically come up with an RPG story and mentally chart it out until I hit a point where I go 'okay, and while the heroes are doing that, Miranda and company can step in and handle this issue off to the side...'

and that's how I come up with a few of these settings/prompts. For this, Miranda and co. are basically coming in after the main party finished their second dungeon sequence. Y'know, the part where you're getting used to the game and now you're introduced to the main villains but still don't know a ton about them.
>>
>>4128363
>Hm. This may not bode well. As much as you hate to concede the point, Miranda may need to intervene.
Miranda is the strongest in our party( despite Cy's ego, she knows it) so she kills while the other three get the magic fuel.
Maybe it's a good idea to use portal plates and Cy's portal skill while extracting the resources.
>>
>>4128363
>Well, you’ll worry about that more tomorrow. This is YOUR job now, so YOU’LL handle it. Time to find your sleeping quarters.
I want to see our nerd brigade in action
>>
>>4128363
>Hm. This may not bode well. As much as you hate to concede the point, Miranda may need to intervene.
>>
>>4128392
So we're the competent side characters?
Are we competent enough to down the final boss and steal their loot before the main party does?
>>
>>4128398
Yes, but you're not getting paid for that.
>>
>>4128344
>Izumi's date
>Mafia bosses - the client and the target
>Summon job kids
>Cook Boy
>>
Alright, seems like we're playing it safe and notifying the Big Guns. Gun. Fist.

Miranda.

Writing.
>>
>>4128363
>Other

Invade everyones minds for more info!
>>
>>4128427
Nah we save that for the men in masks.
>>
>>4128480
How do we know who they are without mind raping everyone they could be?
>>
>>4128363
>>4128372
>>4128384
>>4128395
>>4128397
You let out an annoyed sigh. Really, this initially SOUNDED like a rather simple retrieval job. Alas, it seems as though that’s not to be- in which case, you’ll need more firepower than what you have, sadly. Especially if any of those beasts, or masked men come calling. “Well, this is frustrating,” you murmur.

“W-why?” Maya asks. “What’s wrong? You won’t be able to get it?”

“No, we’ll be able to get it,” Owlia says with a wry grin. Seems like she’s figured on the same course of action- of course she did, she’s lovely like that, quick to catch on when she cares to. “Just we’re gonna have to do something we didn’t want to in order to. Gotta call our boss.”

“Wait, they aren’t with you?” Kirona asks in surprise.

“No, they’re here,” Nura confirms. “But this was kind of supposed to help me out with learning a few things, and she didn’t want to get directly involved unless she absolutely had to. And, well…”

“It appears as though it’ll be smarter for her to indeed be involved,” you finish. “Considering she’s by far the most experienced and powerful of us. She’ll be a bit annoyed, but likely understand.” She always struck you as a bit reluctant, but more growing into leadership. Likely never had many others to worry about, unlike yourself.

“Might as well get it over with sooner than later, then…” Owlia says, getting up. The rest of you do so as well, and after bidding the kids goodbye (and Nura promising a certain duo to visit them tomorrow, much to your annoyance), you all set off to find just where the heck your ‘leader’ went. Although...hm. Ah, of course. The communication stone. “Hello? Are you there, dear leader? Hello?”

“...hm?” she sounds distracted. “What is it? Kinda busy.”

“Is it important?” You find yourself asking with a touch of annoyance. “Because it’s about the job.”

“...oh. Alright, alright. Fire away. What’s the issue?” Well, at least she understands that.

“Things might be a bit more concerning than we anticipated. We’ve gotten word that there may be...undesirables in the area of operations. We’ll have to talk more about it in private.” You’d rather not spout likely classified information to anyone that’s nearby. “We were mayhaps considering asking you to lend more direct support.”

There’s a short groan that comes from the crystal, before she clicks her tongue. “Figures. Alright, inform me before we turn in for the night. There’s a curfew up here, I’ve learned. You’ve got leave to do whatever until then. Out.”

The light on the murmur stone shuts off, and you let out a sigh. “Well, then...lunch, perhaps?”

(Will resume tomorrow- off work.)
>>
>>4128562
Night, boss. Enjoy your day off!
>>
>>4128562
What was Miranda doing when Cyl called her?
>>
>>4128601
Probably deciding which color of umbrella to stick in her martini based off what she did when she was mentoring Mono.
>>
>>4129354
Doesn't seem she can do the same this time.
>>
Not gonna lie, I lost track of time. I thought it was earlier in the day than it is.

Writing!
>>
>>4130032
>I thought it was earlier in the day than it is.
Daylight Savings?
>>
>>4128562
Everyone agrees, and fortunately it doesn’t take much to locate the lunchroom- it’s a car over from where you appeared.

The lunch hall itself is massive, essentially taking up the entire car’s space; it’s three separate floors, each with their own eateries, and an utterly massive variety of foods to choose from- you idly inquired about it, and it seems that the students often do ‘combat training’ on the ground, and the beasts they kill are made sure to be put to use. At the very least, they’re not wasteful.

It doesn’t take very long, however, before you notice that as you sit down to eat, you have the eyes of a great number of students, many of them clearly surprised by your regal countenance, no doubt. Tongues are wagging and whispers abound near you.

“Seems like we’re popular,” Nura mutters with a grin. “Wonder why that is.”

“...I thought it was ‘cause we don’t look familiar,” Owlia says simply. “Am I wrong?”

Before you can say anything to correct her, you notice someone- several someones, in fact- coming up out the corner of your eye; two young boys and a girl, both in those purple robes, and both looking rather shy. One of the boys looks demonic in nature, but the other two seem human.

There’s a moment where both you and them lock eyes- and neither seem to care to be the first to speak, the human boy’s eyes darting away, much to the annoyance of the girl. “Uhhh...hi.”

“...Hi?” Owlia says confusedly. “Is thereeeee...something you wanted to say, or ask, or…?”

“I uh…” whatever it is, he can’t seem to spit it out- and with a groan, the girl speaks up for him.

“They wants to know if all three of you are friends and for how long!” she says bluntly, to his clear horror.

Ah.

> “...I don’t see how it’s any business of yours.” You despise people that are just nosy like that- when they aren’t Owlia, at least.
> Bah. You have no time to entertain these children. “We AREN’T friends. Serval is very dear to me, but the other is a business associate at most.”
> “If I said ‘yes’, and ‘long enough’, would you leave us alone?” It’s a lie, naturally, but hopefully you can just nip it in the bud.
> Other

>>4130049
I'm going to say yes.
>>
>>4130175
> Other

"The THREE of us? No."

> Posessively put an arm around Owlia. Stare downs for everyone else. Two for Nura.
>>
>>4130179
>>4130175
Like.

Start and end the staredown with Nura.
>>
>>4130175
> “If I said ‘yes’, and ‘long enough’, would you leave us alone?” It’s a lie, naturally, but hopefully you can just nip it in the bud.

>>4130179
>>4130180
Yeah no, fuck off. We're not irresponsible enough to cause a scene and make an enemy out of a teammate in the progress. Miranda would be mad.
>>
>>4130175
>“If I said ‘yes’, and ‘long enough’, would you leave us alone?” It’s a lie, naturally, but hopefully you can just nip it in the bud.

yeah bud. Cylica is arrogant and maybe an asshat, but knows how to handle herself around jealousy. maybe
>>
>>4130175
>> “...I don’t see how it’s any business of yours.” You despise people that are just nosy like that- when they aren’t Owlia, at least.

I imagine this line was used when the two of them first met (Cyl and Owl), gotta get a good antagonism going before approaching Cylica about relationships.
>>
>>4130175
>Why would you like to know that? Does it have to do with your other friend?
Maybe it's rare for demons to hang out with humans?
>>
>>4130175
>“If I said ‘yes’, and ‘long enough’, would you leave us alone?” It’s a lie, naturally, but hopefully you can just nip it in the bud
>>
>>4130183
Well... Maybe... Emperor Cylica was a bit on the manic and mind controlly end of the spectrum before we forget.
>>
>>4130192
>cylica
>manic
What
>>
>>4130175
> “If I said ‘yes’, and ‘long enough’, would you leave us alone?” It’s a lie, naturally, but hopefully you can just nip it in the bud.
>>
>>4130192
not really. the only reason she went crazy on us is because we called her biggest spell mediocre
>>
>>4130183
Lol. Cecilia is already touchy about Nura and doesn't like the kids much.

It's a very normal jealous reaction, and what with everyone acting thirsty AF I see Cylica not staying passive for long.

But that's fine, I know not everyone can roleplay characters acting less than perfect.
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4130192
>>4130188
>>4130183

See these guys get it, even if they voted differently. Also, getting Miranda mad has never intimidated Cylica. She might be concerned about causing problems mission wise, but arguably making her position with Owlia clearly and dominantly could be considered preventing future problems with people crossing her lines.

Especially Nura, who has been thoroughly established as irritating Cylica.
>>
>>4130203
Yeah but the other thing that flips Cylica's reverse scale is her relationship with Owlia. The Yandere is strong within this one.
>>
>>4130175
>>4130183
>>4130188
>>4130191
>>4130197
You just sigh and give him an annoyed look. You don’t know why he’s bothered to ask you something so inane, although you suspect it has something to do with the demon-boy that’s been given eyes between Nura and yourself. What, is he dazzled by your beauty? Sorry, but you’re taken. “If I said ‘yes’, and ‘long enough’, would you leave us alone?”

It’s a lie. Owlia is your beloved girlfriend, and Nura is a superfluous new hire. But ideally, if you confirm their obvious suspicions, they’ll be satisfied and GO AWAY.

You don’t miss the surprised look Nura and Owlia give you, nor do you miss the smug smile the girl gives her compatriots. “See!” she crows. “Toldja! Now you two need to stop worrying so much and just BE FRIENDS. No one up HERE cares, and anyone down THERE that cares is just a butthead. Now let’s GO!”

The demon-boy barely gets a ‘Wait, but-’ out before he and his friend are forcibly grabbed by the wrists by their friend and dragged off. Hopefully, that’ll be the end of it.

You turn back to your food- some kind of oven-baked fowl, when you get the feeling you’re being stared at. Again. You lift your head- surprise surprise, it’s Nura, looking at you like she just bumped into you and saw someone she wasn’t expecting. “What?” you grumble.

“...were you being honest?” Nura asks quietly. There’s no accusation in her voice, no heat. Although you swear there’s the slightest bit of hope there. Pah.

You’re about to answer- and then Owlia has to open her adorable, yet occasionally misguided mouth. “Weeelll, not like honeycakes here to lie unless it’s something she really wants! If she doesn't like you, she’ll tell you!” She actually sidles up to you, nuzzling on your cheek for a moment- and the warmth she shares automatically makes you want to break out into a small smile. She’s such an eager and well-meaning dear, really... “But when she does like someone...she just shows it differently, don’tcha?” That last part was directed to you, and... Gah. Her eyes…why is she so...so good to you, you wonder? Good and so VERY awkward at times to deal with...

> “...'Honeycakes'?” You’ll just...dodge it for now. No need to rock the boat so early.
> “Well...I suppose you could say that...in a sense.” Being a team member should count enough, right?
> “I...ah. Hm.” Drat. You don't want to lie to her, no...but you may have been placed into a verbal impasse.
> Other
>>
>>4130264
> “I...ah. Hm.” Drat. You don't want to lie to her, no...but you may have been placed into a verbal impasse.
> "We'll have to talk later Aria. There are ... some things that can be out of line, and we have to establish where that line is."
>>
>>4130264
Support>>4130270
>>
>>4130270
Let's do this shall we?
>>
>>4130264

> “I...ah. Hm.” Drat. You don't want to lie to her, no...but you may have been placed into a verbal impasse.

Can't break our bejeweled love's heart by contradicting her. We can lay down the law in private, the law of "touch her and you're a vegetable".
>>
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>>4130270
>>4130264
I'll support this. Although I still want glaring.

Now we've let a child unleash the unholy smug. We have a responsibility to make someone pay for the smugging we caused.
>>
Gah, sorry. Done for tonight- had to make lunch for work tomorrow.

Will post/resume tomorrow, come hell or high water, though.
>>
>>4130264
>>4130270
+1
>>
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Totally unrelated, but i feel this is how the intersection looks like.
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>>4131415
Like a well lit Commorragh!
>>
>>4131415
Interesting. Wonder where you got that from.

Writing!
>>
>>4130264
You open your mouth before you realize the folly of continuing that course of action right now. “I...ah.” You quickly snap it shut, before fixing her with a less-than-perfect smile. You’re hoping she doesn’t notice- or at least doesn’t question it outright. “Ah. Hm.Hmhm. You don't want to lie to her, no...but you may have been placed into a verbal impasse. Although...perhaps you can adjust the situation- and settle your nerves about a particular subject in the same breath.
"On that topic, Aria?” She looks a bit surprised, but nods. “We'll have to talk later. Not that your...conduct lacks its uses, but there are... some things that can be out of line, and we have to establish where that line is." Ah, yes, perfect. That sounds rather innocent, and indeed, as a leader you need to establish boundaries- rules of engagement, as it were. “I hope you don’t mind, it’ll be a short talk.”

For a second, you can see her eyes flit from you to Owlia, and her expression shifts near imperceptibly- although you feel more *smug* radiating off her even when she doesn’t show it. “Sure thing. It’ll be good to keep things defined.”

“Hey, don’t leave me outta...whatever this is!” Owlia complains. “I wanna know!”

Nura just chuckles lightly. “Don’t worry, I’m pretty sure you already know.” Aggravating, really. Mayhaps that talk needs to be sooner than later. But for now, you’ll just finish your meal. Never a good thing to let food go to waste.

---------

>Continue with Cylica
>Switch back to Miranda
>>
>>4131791
>Continue with Cylica
>>
>>4131791
>Continue with Cylica
Good thing Nura isn't that oblivious.
>>
>>4131791
>Switch back to Miranda
>>
>>4131791
>Continue with Cylica
>>
>>4131791
>>Switch back to Miranda
>>
>>4131676
oh, they are from bionicle.
>>4131791
>Continue with Cylica
>>
and a bump map of the whole thing.
>>
Staying the course. Writing.
>>
>>4131791
>>4131794
>>4131796
>>4131805
>>4131814

The day continues onwards- many of the kids file out roughly at the same time, presumably for further classes. There’s a decent size number of them that don’t, however; maybe their hours are different. Regardless, before long the three of you finish your meals and make for the exits as well. Might as well see what else this place has to offer- you’ve overheard much, as has the others. Physical training, magical construction, history...

“So, I wanna see just how they’re teachin’ artificin’!” Owlia says. “I wanna compare notes to what I know already. Think they’ll let us sit in on a class?”

“I’m more curious as to their methods in general magic,” Nura says from behind you both. “Some of those kids sounded rather excited, and at least two of them were saying something about an ‘open field day’, whatever that is.”

“Ooh, yeah! That’d be neat, too. I’ve been FASCINATED with this whole ‘natural magic’ thing, so that’d be cool, too!” she agrees. “Maybe I can pick up something new!”

“Hm.” Well, it’s not a poor idea to at least spend some time seeing just what kind of opposition you might face. Forewarned is forearmed and all. But really...children. Their grubby little hands and snotty attitudes and all that is a hard thing to deal with. Miranda’s little pet projects are one story- she’s training them more or less, and they at least knew enough to steer clear of her. But these...ugh. You’re going to be utterly uncomfortable if you do it, you just know it.

But...but dearest Owlia looks so EXCITED, and were you to part from them, you’d feel utterly guilty, without a doubt.

>...go to the Artificing class.
>...go to the Magic Basics class.
>No, no. As much as you hate to, you’ve had your fill for today.
>Other
>>
>>4131943
>...go to the Artificing class.
And comment on sub-par performances.
>>
>>4131943
>...go to the Magic Basics class.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4131943
Givin' this a coin flip
1- Artificing
2- Magic Basics
>>
>>4131943
>magic basics
Open field day looks interesting, we might learn something new.
>>
>>4131943
>...go to the Magic Basics class.
>>
>>4131943
>No, no. As much as you hate to, you’ve had your fill for today.
Time to go to the bar. The juice bar, that is.
>>
Out of curiosity, Handler, did Owlia and Cylica ever talk to each other about kids? As in, having them?
>>
>>4132008

Hahahahahahahaha no.
Cylica is terrified of the concept and Owlia just plain hasn't thought about it.
>>
Ah, dropped my trip. Anyway, writing.
>>
>>4132018
What about making them . . . Out of crystals?
>>
>>4131943
>>4131959
>>4131978
>>4131988
Sighing, you figure it’s probably better that, if you’re going to submit yourself to these little monsters, you’d be better off doing it where THEY’RE the only threat. Love her though you do, you can’t deny Owlia gets...excitable when it comes to crystals and engineering. And the last thing you want is MORE attention on you for any reason whatsoever. “Very well. I suppose we can peruse just how they utilize magic on a basic level here. I’ve no doubt it’ll be an...enlightening experience.” You can’t help but sneak a look at the area where Owlia’s gem lay- although currently hidden by the position of her goggles somewhat, it’s still there. Forever embedded in her forehead, and the nasty scar tissue surrounding it showing the price she paid. The thin skin itself noticeably tints whenever she exerted herself, and it’s a thing that always gives you fits, benign or not. Certainly, the power gained from it was respectable, however. In fact, if Owlia’s calculations were accurate, she only had room to grow, considering the gem itself was, by her own admission (and Cylica’s discreet studies) underpowered to prevent physical strain and overload initially.

It didn’t really make you any more comfortable, but the issue as it is is past. No use in fretting about what could have been.

“Let’s see…” it takes you only a bit of time, ingenuity, and Nura simply approaching a child and asking, but before long you manage to make your way to a large double door- apparently a lecture hall, judging by the sign. So, they’re holding it here?

When you enter, much to the confusion of a number of students, you merely stand off to the side. Nura leans over the nearby railing, gaining a number of...interested parties. Resisting the urge to roll your eyes, you simply keep Owlia from waving too much in excitement.

“Ah, pardon me?” The lilting voice comes from the teacher- a short, purple haired, bespectacled lady in a rather large sweater. You can barely make out her hands. Why would she wear something so inefficient? “Are you, er, lost? I, uh, need to teach this class, so if you are, I can…”

“Ah, no.” you state as you hold eye contact- she’s clearly not the most self-assured of teachers; her body language tells the tale there- too much shuffling, too little eye contact. Easy to roll over. “We’re merely interested in sitting in. We’ve come to fulfill a very important duty on behalf of your Head Magister, and he’s permitted us to browse the facilities as we see fit until then. We thought it prudent to observe the teachings of the fabled Dragon Express in person.”

“Ah, er...well...as long as you don’t interrupt, I suppose…but I’ll have to check with the Head Magister. I-I can do that soon, actually.” She turns to the gathered students, and speaks in a (somewhat) louder voice. “As it was said earlier in the week, today will be an Open Field Day- so we’ll be going to the Practice Yards now. So, single file, please…”

(cont.)
>>
>>4132169

The Practice Yards, as the name implies, turn out to be a massive, semi-outdoor area about the size of a football field, with natural grass and trees transplanted, and an IMMENSE, clear window to the outside for sunlight- or ambiance, perhaps. There are a number of training dummies set out, as well, alongside several other tools you’re uncertain of the purpose of- a tall metal pole with a ball on the top, middle, and bottom, amongst other things. “Now, then, we’ll continue on last week’s lesson- you’ve learned how to channel your mana and form it into basic being. Not to mention, everyone should understand their elemental affinities by now- Water, Earth, Fire, Air, Light, or Shadow. What you need to do now is understand how to direct it, give it form and purpose. This is the first step towards learning the advanced elements, as well.” She stretches out her hand, and there’s a blur in her hands, that slowly forms into a thin lance of ice over the next few seconds, before she hurls it off into the direction of one of the dummies- it shakes and is left with a thin coating of ice on the torso, but none the worse for wear, to the quiet awe of the gathered students. “For now, I’ll explain and demonstrate the theory behind it, then we’ll put it into practice with a basic focusing and targeting exercise...”

The explanation she gives is...not what you’re used to, and you’ve honestly half a mind to correct her on several points- but the other half properly points out that this isn’t your old world by any means; you might be able to utilize your magic here, but you’re the odd one out, not them. Owlia and Nura both seem to be fully into the lesson, Nura especially, with a bit of a ‘hmmm’ here, an ‘oooh’ there.

“Oh hooo…” ...really, they ALL sound like moans, and it’s frustrating. You’re not the only one to notice, either- a good third of the class seems to be ensorceled by her mere presence- last you checked, she WASN’T an actual succubus, damnit!

Unfortunately, they aren’t the only ones to notice- you’re fully about to rein her in when the teacher speaks abruptly towards you three. “Er, excuse me.” There’s a thin smile on her face, but the look in her eyes is...odd. “Considering you’re doing a-a bit of an impromptu audit, I was hoping that you, ah, might perhaps be willing to help me with a bit of a demonstration of magical execution- if you don’t mind. It’s nothing harmful, though, don’t worry.”

> “Oh, no, no, we’re merely here to watch. We wouldn’t dream of interfering with the lesson.” And you don’t want to learn that that look is about...
> “Well...if you insist, I suppose we can provide our aid.” Not to mention, look aside, you kind of want to show these children how it’s done.
> Other

(Done for tonight!)
>>
>>4132171
>“Well...if you insist, I suppose we can provide our aid.” Not to mention, look aside, you kind of want to show these children how it’s done.
Thanks for running!
>>
>>4132171
>“Well...if you insist, I suppose we can provide our aid.” Not to mention, look aside, you kind of want to show these children how it’s done.
>>
>>4132171
> “Well...if you insist, I suppose we can provide our aid.” Not to mention, look aside, you kind of want to show these children how it’s done.
>>
>>4132171
>“Well...if you insist, I suppose we can provide our aid.” Not to mention, look aside, you kind of want to show these children how it’s done.
>>
>>4132171
>“Well...if you insist, I suppose we can provide our aid.” Not to mention, look aside, you kind of want to show these children how it’s done.

bout to flick the pompous bitch switch like these kids have never seen in their LIVES.
>>
>>4132171
> Other

Scan her brain.
>>
>>4132171
>>4132659
Huzzah! Unorthodox!
Support.
>>
>>4132171
>>4132659
What's she after exactly?
>>
>>4132171
>“Well...if you insist, I suppose we can provide our aid.” Not to mention, look aside, you kind of want to show these children how it’s done.
>>
>>4132659
>>4132988
What the hell? Not only its completely stupid, but it risks the mission.
>>
>>4133560
Pfff. She'll never know, Cylica is a pro.

Also the teacher clearly has an agenda asking us to participate.

There's a conspiracy afoot, trust no-one! Especially nobody connected to the students who saw the conspirators on their trip!
>>
>>4133598
>Also the teacher clearly has an agenda asking us to participate.
well, duh. we barged in, demanded to see her classes and nura is making sexual noises. of course the teacher has it against us.
>>
>>4133598
First, deep mind-diving isn't instant and is very noticeable.

Second, keep it up and you're a That Guy.
>>
>>4132171
>>4132659
Interesting option.
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4132171
>>4132189
>>4132228
>>4132265
>>4132466
>>4132546
You’re admittedly curious as to just what she wants you to do, and you don’t think she’d be so foolish as to try to do anything untowards in the name of education. At least, you’d HOPE she’s not so crass behind that mousey exterior. “Well...if you insist, I suppose we can provide our aid.” Not to mention, look aside, you kind of want to show these children how it’s done. They all seem frightfully willing to follow orders or gape at the slightest hint of power. And so you step up, Owlia following quickly behind you. “What will be needed of us?” Ah, Nura’s here, too.

“Wellll…just stay there. I want to demonstrate something.” With a slightly less devious smile, she turns to her gathered students. “Now, with what I just informed you of in mind, can anyone remind me- what are the Three Primary Rules of Conjuring?” A number of hands go up.

“Always know your spell!” One girl says.

“What you start, you finish,” a boy says.

“Take responsibility for your spells.” A third boy finishes.

“Excellent! Now, with all those, and what we just went over, what that means is that, once you’ve conjured a spell, you want to commit to it. Mana Backlash isn’t fun, and it takes an advanced study to be able to modify a spell on the fly. It’s not hard to adjust the parameters of a spell, like how strong you want the spell to be if you have the spare mana, but if you want to, for example, Exchange a Frost Sphere into a Frost Wind...” saying that, she conjures a large snowball, and then, after it’s about a basketball’s size, it starts sloughing off towards the three of you; you’re surprised that although the wind is a bit biting, it’s not horribly cold, at least. “It takes a lot of effort and spare mana. Tell me, you three, was it all that cold?”

“Not really,” Owlia admits. “I guess that’s the point?”

(cont.)
>>
>>4133700
“Yes,” she notes. “It generally results in a weakening of the new spell you’re attempting to execute because you need to reform the magic into something your and it aren’t prepared for, even if it’s the same element. There’s a few magisters out there that can mitigate the mana loss, but they’re few and far between. Some elements are more forgiving with this than others; for example, fire, which is why it’s so popular as a battle element. Earth is one of the hardest to Exchange spells with. It’s also why the advanced nature of these elements are so difficult to use at a high level, such as Lightning, which is a duality of Air and Fire, or Nature, which is Earth and Water: you need great control over both elements, and its usage is essentially a constant Exchange that provides great power at the cost of sheer control. So you MUST be cautious! Here, I’ll...one moment.” She looks at the three of you. “Tell me, if you can do magic, what are your elements?”

Nura’s the first to speak. “Shadow.” She says no more of it.

“I guesss...Iunno.” Owlia shrugs. “Kinda Light, I s’pose? Or maybe Fire...”

Well. Funny she should mention Lightning…

>You’ll be subtle yet fierce. Static and sparks should show the answer to the question well enough.
>Go grand as a ruler should! Advanced nature, is it? Well, you’ve MASTERED Lightning, and aren’t afraid to show such!
>(Meditation Room) Your power is not a toy, nor will you treat it as one. A simple but pointed demonstration should suffice.
>Other
>>
>>4133703
>>(Meditation Room) Your power is not a toy, nor will you treat it as one. A simple but pointed demonstration should suffice.
Gotta go for that bonus option.
>>
>>4133703
>(Meditation Room) Your power is not a toy, nor will you treat it as one. A simple but pointed demonstration should suffice.
Pointed as in showing off a bit?
>>
>>4133703
>(Meditation Room) Your power is not a toy, nor will you treat it as one. A simple but pointed demonstration should suffice.
Let's not cause a scene
>>
>>4133703
>(Meditation Room) Your power is not a toy, nor will you treat it as one. A simple but pointed demonstration should suffice.
>>
>>4133703
>(Meditation Room) Your power is not a toy, nor will you treat it as one. A simple but pointed demonstration should suffice.
>>
>>4133703
>Go grand as a ruler should! Advanced nature, is it? Well, you’ve MASTERED Lightning, and aren’t afraid to show such!

It's the most fun choice, and APPARENTLY we're "safe" here.
>>
>>4133607
I never said it had to be deep mind diving. We could just skim surface thoughts. Tune in to radio Teacher, not try to hack her brain.

But anyways I'm just having fun proposing the crazy part of her that apparently nobody else wants to. Y'all got some solid groupthink here, like obviously (Meditation Room) is gonna win the vote here so I'm not worried about a joking bad idea suddenly being taken and run with.

> THAT guy

Oh /tg/ references I've missed you so.
>>
>>4133703
>(Meditation Room) Your power is not a toy, nor will you treat it as one. A simple but pointed demonstration should suffice.
>>
Writing! We are focused and respectable usually.
>>
>>4133703
>>4133705
>>4133707
>>4133708
>>4133711
>>4133712
>>4133719
A part of you wants to do more; to show off to them like none other. After all, you ARE royalty…

But another, calmer part of you carefully folds that desire up, places it in a box, and pushes it away. No, you’re not going to grandstand. Not here and now. There’s no major reason for it. Your power is not a toy, nor will you treat it as one. A simple but pointed demonstration should suffice. “My primary capability, as a matter of fact…” A concentrated bolt of lightning, purple and bright, arcs from one hand to the other in a crackling, sustained bloom, and the students are vocal in their surprise and shock. You even hear a little ‘oh’ of surprise from the teacher herself. “...is lightning.” You end the arc, and look to her, then the awestruck students. “And yes, it took me a number of years to master this technique. But the payoff has been well worth it.”

“O-oh!” Whatever the teacher thought of you before...well, you’d like to think that she’s changed her opinion, if slightly. “Well, I never expected that...but, er. Yes, I’d love to talk with you more about that later, but we should get to the live practice now! Everyone, we’ll be doing some basic conjuring and shaping drills, and we’ll focus on using the training dummies for practice. If the majority of you perform well enough, we might do something a bit more fun!” That gets the kids murmuring about what they might do, but a hand goes up before long. “Yes?”

“Can we ask the ladies for help if we need it?” One guy asks.

“Hmm...well...it IS rare we get these elements nearby...do you mind?” she asks, turning to you.

“Nah!” Owlia’s quick to answer, as always. “Oh, and name’s Serval!”

“Aria,” Nura introduces herself with a bit of a bow. “And I’d be happy to help teach the children.”

“Cyrene,” you mutter. And you’re still REALLY not the biggest fan of kids. But, well...you DID want to show them how it’s done. “And very well.”

“Oh, great! And, ah, yes, I’m Jessibelle, and I’m one of the Magic Basics teachers, of course!” Ah, now you have a name to it all, at least. With that, she turns to the group. “Alriiight, let’s get everyone arranged by element…”

(cont.)
>>
>>4133773
The training begins in earnest, with many kids essentially turning it into a free period with occasional training- talking in little groups, looking this way and that before its their turn- everyone’s got two minutes to try before having to get to the back of the line. You note that the Light and Shadow users are, as Jessibelle vaguely indicated before, rather scarce compared to everyone else. Nura seems to be being as gentle as possible with them, talking with them intently before letting them fire off their attempt, all with a beaming smile on her face and a happily twitching tail...that perhaps is attracting a bit too much wrong attention as she leans over to pat one young girl on the head for her technique hitting the target.

Owlia seems to at least be having fun, though you suspect her advice is less ‘advice’ and more ‘general pep talking’. Not that the students seem to mind- if anything they seem to be having fun talking with her. You’ll never get how she can stand these things, though…

As for yourself…well, you’d used the occasional crystal for Fire and Wind magics, so it’s not like you knew nothing about it...

>Still, you’ll keep it to simple advice around those groups. You’d rather not have them hanging on your every word.
>You’ll at least point out when they clearly did something wrong regarding aiming or something else esoteric.
>If this is an elite school, you’ll treat them as such- anything that WAS clearly incorrect from what you heard and what you know will be critiqued.
>Other
>>
>>4133776
>You’ll at least point out when they clearly did something wrong regarding aiming or something else esoteric.
>>
>>4133776
>You’ll at least point out when they clearly did something wrong regarding aiming or something else esoteric.
Critiquing spellworks on a plane based on the knowledge you got from another is a little harsh.
>>
>>4133776
>You’ll at least point out when they clearly did something wrong regarding aiming or something else esoteric.
>>
>>4133776
>You’ll at least point out when they clearly did something wrong regarding aiming or something else esoteric.

While Cylica might not like kids very much, I’d assume she’d dislike seeing mistakes enough to point them out and correct them, if rather brusquely.
>>
>>4133776
>If this is an elite school, you’ll treat them as such- anything that WAS clearly incorrect from what you heard and what you know will be critiqued.
>>
>>4133776
>You’ll at least point out when they clearly did something wrong regarding aiming or something else esoteric.
>>
Writing!
>>
>Nura: shadow
>Owlia: light+fire
>Cylica: lightning+shadow
so Miranda's element is light + a bit of fire/electricity then?
>>
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>>4133842
Light+FIST
>>
>>4133776
>>4133787
>>4133788
>>4133794
>>4133800
>>4133814

Well, to be entirely fair about it, it’s just not smart to waltz into a place where the rules are new to you and you only have second-hand information. No, it takes observation, study, repetition, to be able to categorically make determinations as to faults in execution of any given technique. That said, there ARE some things that, as far as you’ve observed, are generally good practice, or at least applicable no matter the situation or magic type. You’ll at least point out when they clearly did something wrong regarding aiming or something else esoteric.

“You’re overcompensating; you’re guiding the spell, don’t let it guide you.” The boy nods, and pulls his arm back again- a fireball is his goal. You’ve made a few yourself thanks to some of Cylica’s Fireblast Crystals...perhaps you should ask her about making those again. She hadn’t really bothered with any of her more particular crystals in quite some time, even well before you...left. In fact, she hasn’t had much time with her crystals at all- if there’s one thing you can most CERTAINLY fault Miranda on, it’s pushing all this research work onto the poor girl without thought for her own good! She’s just too excitable to say no...although, if nothing else, it’s clear Miranda at least had the good sense to recognize that. She’ll be in a far better position with Nura on the team- even if it makes you slightly angry just admitting such. “Fire is innately wild. If you’ve ever seen a torch, imagine that, but more spherical. I’ve found it helps.”

“Right…” The next shot is still a bit off, but at least it hit the target. Satisfied, he moves on when time is called, and the next student steps up.

Overall, it’s not...blindingly horrible. There are whiners, and suckups, and those that try too hard and risk burning more than the target...but by the end of it you’ve developed what you believe is at least a healthy respect from the children, even if you’re clearly not their favorite; that honor goes to Nura by far, though Owlia comes in a respectable second at the end of the hour and a half of practice.

As for yourself, well. It’s not a bad feeling...but you’d still rather leave as soon as possible; ugh, all these grabbing hands and noisy mouths...pass. That said...you DID gain a bit of inspiration from the day’s talks and how some of these kids tried to approach the matter. Nothing now, just a theoretical technique, but...perhaps something to keep in mind.

>(Theoretical Technique) Violet Garden- An electromagnetic field that can disrupt nearby electronics and hinder movement, using Cylica's staff as a catalyst. The more mana poured into the attack, the more painful the field is.
-----------------

(cont.)
>>
>>4133905
It’s then that Jessibelle walks up to the lot of you as her class is rounding up, preparing them for the ‘extra game’, as they did indeed manage to beat her expectations. “H-hey! I, uh...well, you three did well! I contacted the Head Magister just to be safe, and he- he was rather pleased you were willing to help out! Apparently someone else was doing the same; I think your leader?”

You raise an eyebrow at that. “Really?” Had Miranda not had enough of playing caretaker already?

“Y-yeah! Apparently she held an impromptu seminar on, er, physical self-defense in, well, physical education class. The gym teacher called it ‘enlightening and disturbing’.” Ah. Well then. “So, now I’m hoping to teach them a bit of how to use it defensively as well. See that pole with the orbs on it?” She points towards the large one you saw earlier. “There’s a game some mages play, where the goal is to fire the proper magic element into the balls when they light up a particular color, so-”

“Aaaactually,” Owlia says sheepishly. “Could we put a pin on that? I’m kinda starting to feel a bit yawny.”

“Oh! Uh, alright, no problem. Do you know where you’re staying?” Jessibelle asks.

“Afraid not,” Nura tsks. “We should really go and find out, shouldn’t we?”

“Well said.” you agree. You’re not going to refuse them if they actually want to leave, too. “It’s been an interesting experience, Ms. Jessibelle.”

“Likewise!” she offers with a handshake.
-----------------------------

“Rooms?” Miranda asks from the stone after you’d taken it out again to ask her. “Right, we’re three cabins north of here, actually. We’ll be staying in several of the vacant faculty dorms.” She gives a floor and several numbers, but admits that the choice between them is up to you. She says she'll just take whatever's left, which is fine by you.

At least there’s proper living quarters...you've still got some time before nightfall, but you are feeling a bit winded- not like you weren't on your feet a bit before coming here, but...

"Dibs!" Owlia quickly calls on the room on the left once you've arrived. You're not sure why- you're fairly certain they're all the same...

Regardless, you foll-

"Heeey." Ah. Her. "So, you wanted to have a talk, right? Care to do it once we settle in?"

Hmph. Indeed. Time to nip this in the bud. "Very well. This room will suffice." You point at a room further down the hall. "Shall we?"

"Right." And so as you walk down the hall, you begin piecing together exactly how you're going to put this...

>How to put this...?

(Done for tonight.)
>>
>>4133905
>(Theoretical Technique) Violet Garden- An electromagnetic field that can disrupt nearby electronics and hinder movement, using Cylica's staff as a catalyst. The more mana poured into the attack, the more painful the field is.

Is this the beginning of Lightning Field proposed so long ago?
>>
>'enlightening and disturbing'
Was Miranda punching things during that class?
>>
>>4133913
>"We are co-workers. I do not hate you, but you have mannerisms that annoy me. I would appreciate if you were to act more professionally around me and my Partner. To put it simply, stop trying to flirt with us, we're not interested in sharing."
Miranda was probably describing the effects of solid blows to the joints... and other vital areas.
>>
>>4133913
>"First things first, what do you think of our dear leader, me and Owlia so far?"
>"I admit, your brand of social handling has it's uses, but there is someone who I need you to behave yourself around. Can you guess who that is?"
>"To put it bluntly, you're at best a business associate as of now. But prove yourself, Nura Qahtan, and maybe we can be ...friends."
>>4133937
She literally has never flirted with any of the team members since her introduction if you read carefully.
>>
>>4133913
This >>4133951, and add that we have nothing against her appearance or upbringing if she was worried about that racial thing.
>>
>>4133951
>But prove yourself, Nura Qahtan, and maybe we can be ...friends.
Did Cy admit that she considers Miranda as a friend by the way? I thought she just begrudgingly respects her as a leader
>>
>>4133951
I'd say she's been provocative. She hasn't come on to anyone outright with words sure, but she hasn't exactly been innocent in action. Her conduct was a potential sticking point with the socially aware pair at the interview.
I'm alright cutting everything past talking about professionalism from my quote, everything after is superfluous.
I also assume we're not using her real name for the talk, so Handler should remember to edit the name in your submission appropriately.
>>
>>4133951
Supporting.
BUT project the last statement directly into her mind to avoid leaking real names. That also drives the point in deeper and looks way cooler.
>>
>>4134046
that would only make nura tattle on us, or worse, quit
>>
>>4134046
Nonono, no mind tricks on other employees unless they ask.
>>
>>4133951
Supporting this though I believe there's no need to put it that bluntly.

>>4134046
No, just talk normally and use the fake names we have for the mission.
>>
>>4133937
>>4133913
Supporting this.
>>
>>4133937
I would prefer this, I don't think Cylica wants to mince words with Nura, direct, no-nonsense.
Perhaps mention that her mannerisms almost got someone else her job? Would Cylica go that low? Maybe.
>>
>>4133913
>>4133951
+
>>
Writing shortly.
>>
>>4133913
>>4133951
>>4133962
>>4133962
>>4134046
>>4134669
As you close the door, you decide to begin in a less confrontational way. Get her talking a bit first. "Right. First things first, what do you think of our dear leader, me and Owlia so far?"

She shrugs, although she has a small smile on her face. “Ms. Mirand-”

“Zinna, please,” you correct. “Rules are rules.”

She doesn’t seem offended at the correction, at least. “Oh, right. Well, Ms. Zinna seems nice enough...although I’m wondering what she went off to do in the meantime.”

Probably slack off, but that’s neither here nor there. “She’s proven capable enough, and more than willing to stick her neck out for her compatriots, for good or ill,” you inform. “You’d do well to respect her, despite her...diminutive size.”

She snickers. “Oh, don’t worry. I know size doesn’t ALWAYS matter.” Her tail twitches, and your eye does the same. “Anyway, Owlia’s pretty fun to hang around! She’s so...energetic and peppy! It’s cute! I can see why you like her so much.”

Hm. You’ll get back to that in a moment. “And me?”

Her grin turns a bit more flat, a bit more sardonic. “Honestly? I’ve got no problems with you. Guessing that might not be entirely mutual, buuuuut…” Ah. So she’s indeed recognized. Good. That makes this easier.

Still, the fact that you need to have this conversation in the first place...you can’t help but let out a huff. "I admit, your brand of social handling has its uses, but for all your...practice of the art, there is someone who I need you to behave yourself around. Can you guess who that is?"

She gives a light snort of amusement. “Oh, come now. I’m a lot of things, but I’m not a homewrecker.”

“And yet you can’t resist holding the sledgehammer,” you find yourself saying heatedly. “And so here we are…!”

She pauses a bit, a sudden timidity crossing her face for a moment...but only for a moment, as before long she’s got that confident and vaguely sultry look back on her face, though it is tinged with some confusion. “I have to admit, I’m not certain what precisely bought this on, but I guess I don’t really need to know, huh? Either way, I won’t seduce your girl, I swear it.” She holds up a hand in oath. “We’ll just be friends...and maaaybe all three of us can head out one night? As friends?” She ventures.

(cont.)
>>
>>4137278
You fix her with the flattest stare you can pull out. "To put it bluntly, you're at best a business associate as of now. I don’t see that changing in the near future.” You pause, not caring for her downcast reaction as you look around the room. “You might as well claim this room. With that, I believe I’ve said my piece.” Considering she says nothing else, you figure it best to let her stew over the topic. Although...you find yourself stopping at the door as you consider a bit of an olive branch. Although it’s not exactly for you. “...but prove yourself, Nura Qahtan, and maybe we can be...friends."

You leave before she can answer you back. You’re not even sure if that was sincere, but...well, it might not have been an entire lie, at least. After all, she DOES work in crystals, and seems to know them fairly well.

She can’t be ALL bad.

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

The next morning...you suddenly hear a blaring alarm, echoing throughout the area. You find yourself waking up to screams, and a glowing light flashing, along with some sort of intercom system yelling about staying calm and moving to designated defensive areas...what’s going on?

>Miranda
>Owlia
>Nura
>Remain with Cylica
>>
>>4137280
>Miranda
Time to fix this security breach.
>>
>>4137280
>>Miranda
>>
>>4137280
>Miranda
>>
>>4137280
>Miranda
Punch things that get in the way of job payment

>diminutive size
I keep forgetting Miranda is really short, especially when you compare her to Cy, Owlia and Nura. What a womanlet haha.
>>
>>4137280
>Miranda
>>
>>4137319
She also has height insecurity, one of the reasons why she constantly notes people's heights. She's also short enough to be mistaken for a kid in the mafia job.
>>
>>4137280
>Miranda
>>
Back to it.

Writing!
>>
>>4137280
>>4137282
>>4137290
>>4137296
>>4137319
>>4137321
>>4137326

>You are once again Miranda.

Well, whatever it is, you’re clearly going to need to resolve it before you take off for your ACTUAL job. Which is annoying, but necessary. You’re quick to throw your gear on, and you burst out of your room; it seems as though the others are similarly alert- good. No need to waste time in waking anyone. “To the top,” you say, and fortunately they fall in line behind you as you storm out of the hall, weaving through the fleeing students and faculty.

When you burst open the door, you’re greeted to the alarm growing ever louder, and you can see various people running to and fro- and a lot of people looking up at the sky, many of them mages, flinging fireballs, icicles, spears of light; the whole sky is practically a fireworks show, and all of it’s aimed at…

...Oh. Ohhhhh.

The utterly massive flock of feathered beasts swoop and soar around the Dragon Express- one of them makes a low dive towards the deck, its red and purple wingspan wide enough to blot out the sunlight for a moment. And it’s just one of many. “What the FUCK is THIS?!” You can’t help but shout as its pronged tail whips past; these things seemed seriously vicious.

“Southern Crayloks!” someone in a faculty robe shouts. “They’re in the middle of their migration pattern- but they came early! They’re big and mean so we’ve got to scare them off!” He turns from you to toss another fireball at one of the smaller Crayloks; it screeches on impact, breaking off its attempted dive, but notably it stays in the air.

...Well. Shit. This could get hairy.

>Action!

>Roll 3d20. Best of three
>>
>>4137377
Y’know what? Let’s try out that precursor missile pack we got during the Artificer Crossover.
>>
Rolled 8, 12, 2 = 22 (3d20)

>>4137377
>Rapier time
>use magiblasts
Maybe we can see Owlia's new power beam?
>>
Rolled 9, 18, 7 = 34 (3d20)

>>4137377
Time for some ol' fashion Magiwave, with the rapier.
>>
Rolled 10, 3, 19 = 32 (3d20)

>>4137381
>>4137377
>forgot to roll again
Ugh...
>>
>>4137377
>>4137381
Oh right, give it to Nura since she doesn't have anything ranged and heavy
>>
>>4137384
Supporting some rapier-charged Magiwaves, we can use this moment to test if the upgrade is noticeable too.
>>
Wait do we have to kill these beasts? Otherwise we should have used sun flare to scare them off or something.
>>
>>4137387
We didn’t check to see if Nura knows how to use a pistol, much less a missile launcher.
>>
>>4137399
Lethal force is faster, and with them being so high up the sky I doubt a Flare is effective.
>>
>>4137399
I mean, they're throwing full power magic at them. But if we only need to spook them then we can fly up close using our crystal and Flux Wave them.
>>
>>4137377
> Releas a Power Stink!

Can we reverse our ability to smell danger and instead make others smell how dangerous we are?

I suppose "intimidation aura" would be a better phrase but I like "Power Stink" better.

Alternatively - work on our fireworks spell. It's flashy, it's big, it's low cost, and it doesn't do much damage. Just what the doctor ordered. We could practice making it hotter too, fuck up the thermals and create turbulance pockets to disrupt their flying.

Light flash would probably work well too, flying blind is very disorientating.
>>
>>4137417
I would prefer to avoid using flux wave near flying mechanical objects just in case they stop flying also.
>>
>>4137417
Anon, I* don't think we should use Flux Wave near magical appliances or an entire brigade of mages, who are also our allies.
>>
>>4137424
>>4137422
I meant "fly up to the creatures" - they are far enough to safely chuck AoE spells
>>
>>4137424
Fireworks? We can get some practice in, and it'll fuck up their flying ability from heat generated turbulence as well as be disorientating while also low-cost in regards for mana.

Also it won't disclose our true capabilities, or risk friendly fire, or pull excessive aggro.
>>
>>4137377
>>4137429
Yeah, Fireworks sound like a better idea. Still need to use the Rapier since it's an underpowered and underdeveloped technique.
I'll switch to this.
>>
>>4137428
Then we might as well toss up a Nebula Buster to scare them off.

Anyways. If we use "Burning Aura" on our hands and then shoot "Sparkling Fireworks" from there we can probably increase the heat significantly.

This is a fairly safe situation to use it in, and at 350 mana it's a steal of a deal.

Alternatively, we could use shocking touch + sparkly fireworks. Since SF is a bunch of small mana bubbles spraying out then "popping" if we can use mana that's already been electrified to form the bubbles we should get a discount tazer effect. Electrical spasms in muscles are probably really bad during flight
>>
>>4137377
Please add "Power Stink" to "Experimental Techniques"?
>>
...Seems like there's a frank discussion, plus I'm kinda tired anyway. Will resume tomorrow.
>>
>>4137441
Please, no.
>>
>>4137441
>>
>>4137487
Aw, come on. Think how useful the ability to overwhelm people's senses with our power would be.

It's not my fault Miranda focused on oalfactory as her sense for danger.
>>
>>4137377
>>4137439
>use "Burning Aura" on our hands and then shoot "Sparkling Fireworks" from there
Supporting this.
Burning aura as in Energy Channel? Supporting either way though.
>>
>>4137742
Yeah pretty much.
>>
>>4137491
>Think how useful the ability to overwhelm people's senses with our power would be.
We have three of those already. They’re called Fireworks, Flare and Flux Wave, and Flux Wave doesn’t rely on any of the five senses.
>>
>>4137763
Yeah but Fireworks is offensive and harmful, Flare is limited to line of sight and brief, and Flux wave is indiscriminately damaging and difficult.

Whereas a Power Stink could be used diplomatically or against sub-sentient creatures without all the highly visible and destructive options of the other three.
>>
>>4137763
Like this mission and the Mecha mission, we can't use Flux wave around Mana equipment.

Flare is neutralized by sunglasses or turning your head.

Power Stink could paralyze people with fear, or warn off dangerous animals without alerting other forces, and while it's a smell it's a magical effect related to power levels that Miranda interprets as a smell not a literal smell.

It'll probably go nowhere but why do you hate fun Anon. Can't hurt to have the idea kicking around if there comes a time when it's worth pursuing. Is it because of the name?
>>
>>4137785
Fireworks doesn’t hurt people, anon. It’s also cheap in mana cost. It should be easy enough to modify to deafen/stun foes.

Also, yeah, the name isn’t good. Personally, I’d rework the concept to be less about “smell” and more about either inflicting physical nausea or straight up causing a panic reaction to foes.
>>
>>4137804
But I like that it has a bad and unladylike name.
>>
>>4137816
You ain't getting any votes from me at least with a name like that, something vanilla like "Fear Aura" I can do however.
>>
>>4137785
>>4137763
there's already a theoretical version of Directed Flux Wave that is not that indiscriminate - maybe we should work on that in the down time instead of adding yet another half-baked technique, especially if it already serves the same purpose. And yeah, the name is terrible.
>>
File: Directed Flux Wave.png (60 KB, 1636x413)
60 KB
60 KB PNG
>>4137920
forgot the pic
from #67
>>
>>4137920
Yeah, except SF should be effective even if we don't succeed without risk of failure affecting our allies. It also won't reveal our Flux Wave ability to any enemies.

Additionally, learning to modulate the mana in SF will make learning to direct our Flux Wave into specific mana easier as well. After all, changing the mana frequency after it leaves our hands is far more difficult than using one single frequency.

Actually, Sparkly Fireworks is probably our best bet for a directed Flux attack. Instead of having to learn to remain connected to the mana and continue cycling the frequency rapidly, while remaining focused enough to control the mana despite paradoxically relaxing our control on it (which is how Miranda rapidly shifts frequency) the way SF works

> A showy technique that causes a lot of pieces of unfocused mana to erupt from your hand in a shower of sparkles, or at times small balls of mana that pop into the same.

Means that if we can have those tiny mana balls pop at slightly different times we can replicate the same mechanism of being surrounded by rapidly changing mana frequencies by changing the frequency of the tiny mana balls as they're generated. We can shift our frequency in a more focused pattern allowing us to retain more control of it, since the inconsistent duration of the mana balls would give the randomness the makes FW effective and the AOE nature of SF would make it effective even with reduced fine control over aiming and such.
>>
>>4137920
TL;DR "Sparkly Fireworks" is really a subset of Mana Control which we need to be better at before we can reall pull off more complex techniques like a Directed Flux.
>>
>>4138183
Why are you guys thinking that I want to flux wave right here right now - I said 'in the down time'.
>>
>>4138644
Cause we're debating on what to do right now.

Although I do think combining Flux Wave with Sparkly Fireworks is a good way to create a flux effect. Maybe it'll work even better because people will be dealing with multiple mana waves that are erratic instead of just rapidly cycling.
>>
>>4138184
Miranda's already experienced enough to start working on this technique, what are you talking about? This 'stinky' technique is an absolutely new concept that she has no prior experience with, no way it would be easier to learn than modifying the Flux Wave.
>>
>>4138651
>Use Rapier, throw Fireworks, maybe use Energy Channel if it helps
>If not scary enough - throw magiblasts
>>
>>4138667
Supporting.
I just realized we're not going full lethal yet, so Magiwaves are out.
>>
>>4139034
I mean, fireballs and ice spears and similar damage type spells are being used, maybe these mages are just not accustomed to non elemental damage type spells.
I would wager a nebula would scatter and or murder the flock pretty handily.
Flux wave, we might have trouble getting into the flock or far enough away from the train to pull it off and also get back in a timely fashion. also, all the aoe spells being flung in that general direction, make the prospect a little undesirable.
I figure a bit of a culling with magiwaves will spook the flock, fireworks I don't see doing any more than these fireballs, they seem fairly resistant to the mage spells and the lights and sparkles are being ignored.
I think we want to aim for body and head shots, if they land on the ship because we tore a wing up and they can't fly we might end up with an environmentalist getting up in our business.
>>
>>4138667
Gonna throw my vote to this. If the fireworks are not effective we're blasting them.
>>
>>4139298
You ever run your finger through a candle vs. holding your hand over the flame?

The thing about the SF is that it stays in one place, deterring the flock from approaching it because SHITS ON FIRE, YO. Second, the concentrated heat will cause turbulance above the ship, the rising air will make it difficult for them to fly and land the on the ship.

Our job isn't to kill the flock, it's to protect the ship. If this is a migration, then there are probably too many to really kill effectively resulting in us having to wait for them to pass us or for us to be able to get out of their migration path regardless of how many we kill.

Might as well just make them avoid the ship instead.

No real worries about them attacking from under the ship, the high ground is 10x more important in aerial combat than on the ground.
>>
>>4139443
You bring up an interesting point, our job, should we charge for helping with the birds? They didn't hire us for this, and we DID bring 4 people, reducing our cut.
>>
>>4139813
I mean. If there's a bounty on the birds yeah that changes things.

Otherwise we can just focus on defending the ship as a courtesy because we aren't dicks and happen to be here.

Maybe get the Owlia, Nura, and Cylica to join the attack while we focus on defending.
>>
what if we make Cylica spook the birds with her mental powers?
>>
Writing shortly. Seems like Sparkling Fireworks is the general idea.
>>
>>4140539
+ energy field
>>
>>4137377
“Protect the Express!” you quickly shout. “Spread out, and make sure none of these chickens get a claw on anyone, clear!?”

“Roger!” “Yup yup!” “As you say.” The confirmations come quick and readily, with Owlia and Cylica both quickly taking to the air to duel with the birds more directly. Although you briefly look to Nura as you’re concerned about her long-range capabilities, she seems to have her own ideas as she runs towards a group of casters, firing streams of magic into the sky. Ah, right. She can do support magic. You’ll have to ask about that a bit more later. For now, though…

You drag out your rapier. Time to test this thing out.

Pointing the tip towards the sky, you quickly start calling the sparks of mana up through you and pushing them through it- you don’t want to kill many of these things- could cause a disaster if they were to collapse onto the Express itself and damage and infrastructure. Better to simply frighten them off- even if it’ll take more than usual, judging by how well they’ve been shrugging off the magic thrown their way so far.

As you release, you’re expecting bright sparks to fire off, preferably at decent velocity and high enough to hit the swooping fiends, and ideal pop and crackle to the point that they get spooked.

What you get is a rapid-fire, burst-like, caocophany of fireworks, almost magi-blasts in and of themselves, that rocket up and off and burst like flash bombs in the middle of the massive flock. If this was all one big fireworks show, you were doing an entire section yourself, somehow. It’s not the easiest thing, either- you can feel your rapier wobbling a bit. It’s not the power of the mana, however, it’s you. That kind of imbalance to get the popping and flash effect on so many so rapidly is hard to intentionally keep going, regardless of physical strength.

That said, it seems to be doing the job well enough- the loud noises and bright lights along with the occasional impact does seem to be warding them off. In the distance, you can see two dark spots darting around the flock, small dots occasionally coming from them as they flit around the various bird things, and indeed, the flock seemed to be more focused on getting rid of the two on that end than attacking the Express. They’re still around the general area, though...

Off in Nura’s direction seems to be a bit less good- you can see that there were at least two casualties of the birds, due to their corpses having fallen onto the ship, just as you feared. You’re not sure about the personnel casualties, but...there’s notably less birds, but there’s also less firepower going up.

>Continue to focus on your area, clear it out to make them run, and hope that the rest follow suit.
>You’re going to backup Owlia and Cylica- take advantage of their distractive efforts, and maybe get them out of trouble.
>The birds over on Nura’s side must be scared. Maybe you can deliver the knockout punch and convince them to not even try.
>Other
>>
>>4140636
>Continue to focus on your area, clear it out to make them run, and hope that the rest follow suit.
Keep focusing on our side, not gonna spoonfeed our girls this early.
>>
>>4140636
>>The birds over on Nura’s side must be scared. Maybe you can deliver the knockout punch and convince them to not even try.
>>
>>4140636
>Continue to focus on your area, clear it out to make them run, and hope that the rest follow suit.
>>
>>4140636
>Continue to focus on your area, clear it out to make them run, and hope that the rest follow suit.
>>
>>4140636
>Continue to focus on your area, clear it out to make them run, and hope that the rest follow suit.
>>
Priorities. Writing!
>>
By the way, we have a fifth member on our team, in case things turn really bad.
>>
>>4140636
>>4140640
>>4140647
>>4140664
>>4140685
You’re not going to worry about them just yet- this is supposed to be their thing, so you’ll leave them to solve it best they can and not worry. Besides, not like you’re getting paid for this specifically...although it might be an issue if damages make them think they can get out of paying as much.

The spray continues, and it feels like it’s been nearly an hour before, finally, at last, the birds seem to get the picture, slowly but surely peeling off bit by bit after realizing that this assault is of no use.

Even with the rapier, you’d burned through a surprising amount of mana, actually- although the results are well worth it.

“Heeey!” You look up to see Owlia and Cylica landing- there’s some tears in their clothes here and there, but they don’t seem much worse for wear...actually, scratch that. Owlia’s got some kind of sore spot on her forehead, close to her crystal. Cylica has a bruise or two on her face as well, and she doesn’t look happy about it, constantly poking at it. “We’re back! Looks like we scared ‘em all off, huh?”

“Seems so,” you agree, turning in the direction Nura went. The bodies of two Crayloks are still there near the next car, and there’s a group of people surrounding them. “Let’s see what the damage is over there.”

Arriving shortly at the scene, you notice a number of people discussing the situation- and it doesn’t take long to find Nura amongst them (somewhat, she’s still a bit of a distance from the main group), looking over things with a grimace. “Report, if you please,” you say as you jog up to her.

She jumps a bit, before nodding. “Right...so basically, I headed over here to reinforce them; figured I’d give them a boost with my own magic. They approved, and it seemed like it was going well...someone casted something called Stone Drill, and well, seems like it was aimed a bit hastily. It went straight through the thing, causing it to crash down and hit at least seven people.”

“Dead?” you ask bluntly as you notice the hole in its chest. Might end up spinning it as her fault, if so...

“No,” she says to your private relief. “But they did have to be taken to the infirmary immediately. I don’t know how they’re doing now.”

“And the second one?” you ask.

“Seems like that was less our fault than two Crayloks getting in each other’s way. It crash landed after wrecking a, uh...I think they called it an observatory room. We put it down before it could go back up.”

“Understood.” Alright, then. For now, the thing to do is…

>Keep away from this as best as possible. We helped, let’s get out of here. Likely they’ll be dealing with cleanup and be worrying too much to confront us if they even want to.
>Get in front of it. Talk to the Head Magister, mention the danger, see if we can’t get anything for our help, maybe.
>Play to their compassion a bit. We’ll help with the cleanup a little, maybe make them think nice of us. Might get some social capital out of it.
>Other
>>
>>4140845
>Get in front of it. Talk to the Head Magister, mention the danger, see if we can’t get anything for our help, maybe.
>>
>>4140845
>Get in front of it. Talk to the Head Magister, mention the danger, see if we can’t get anything for our help, maybe.

See if these nerds have an armory they'd be willing to open up to us.
>>
>>4140845
>Get in front of it. Talk to the Head Magister, mention the danger, see if we can’t get anything for our help, maybe.
>Ask Nura more about her magic - what spells exactly does she have?
>>
>>4140636
>Get in front of it. Talk to the Head Magister, mention the danger, see if we can’t get anything for our help, maybe.
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4140728
Gartoum?

Goddamnit. I keep missing votes.
>>
>>4140845
>>4140849
>>4140855
>>4140863
>>4140863
>>4140900
“Get in front of it.” you decide. “Talk to the Head Magister, mention the danger, see if we can’t get anything for our help, maybe.”

It’s not exactly difficult to do that- you practically run into the Head Magister as he’s on his way to look at the damage. “Ah! Oh, good to see you.”

“Likewise,” you respond. “We were just looking for you. I’m sure you were informed of the dangers?”

“Oh, of course!” he says with only a little indignance. “Took part in some of the defense myself. Nasty things, those birds. Carnivores, they are, as you might’ve guessed. Simply vicious. They don’t usually cross our path, however; they normally don’t migrate until the weather gets a touch colder around here. Unfortunate that they were so early.”

“Yeah. Caused a lot of trouble, it seems.” You look back to Owlia and Cylica, both with their clear injuries. “We ended up deciding that defending ourselves was the best course of action. While successful, that turned out a bit dangerous, as you can see.”

“Just a couple of bumps and bruises,” Owlia shrugs. “Nothing too big.”

“Still big enough to potentially be an issue,” you point out. “So!” you turn around, fixing him with a look. “We were wondering, that, considering recent events…”

> “You might look into adding on a bit extra to our paycheck. I think if you’ll talk around, you’ll find that we were rather helpful.”
> “You might be willing to throw a few extra tools our way. I imagine you’ve got something like an armory on board, right?”
> “We might be allowed a bit of pampering for this. I’m sure you have some high-class facilities somewhere on this tub.”
> Other

(done for tonight.)
>>
>>4141014
> “You might be willing to throw a few extra tools our way. I imagine you’ve got something like an armory on board, right?”
>>
>>4141014
> “You might be willing to throw a few extra tools our way. I imagine you’ve got something like an armory on board, right?”
Thanks for running
>>
>>4141014
> “You might be willing to throw a few extra tools our way. I imagine you’ve got something like an armory on board, right?”
Nightnight. Maybe we can get some permanent donations from their armoury.
>>
>>4141014
> “You might be willing to throw a few extra tools our way. I imagine you’ve got something like an armory on board, right?”

Toys for the techies.
>>
>>4140845
> She jumps a bit, before nodding. “Right...so basically, I headed over here to reinforce them; figured I’d give them a boost with my own magic. They approved, and it seemed like it was going well...someone casted something called Stone Drill, and well, seems like it was aimed a bit hastily. It went straight through the thing, causing it to crash down and hit at least seven people.”

We know there's some sort of conspiracy happening. "Never attribute to incompetence what can be explained by enemy action".

We should at least investigate who cast Stone Drill and was responsible even if it wasn't intentional.
>>
>>4141068
you are one fond of conspiracies, aren't you?
>We should at least investigate who cast Stone Drill and was responsible even if it wasn't intentional.
It doesn't concern us, therefore we don't intervene.
>>
>>4141068
Yeah, nah, you're jumping at shadows. How does any of this relate to a random island cult?
>>
>>4141014
> “You might be willing to throw a few extra tools our way. I imagine you’ve got something like an armory on board, right?
Hopefully these nerds got some firepower on board...

Also, off topic, but after seeing how Fireworks looks like being channeled through the rapier, I kinda want to see how Sticky Mana would do...
>>
>>4141085
>>4141073
The cult that ran into the students?

No witnesses is SOP for spooky cults. On top of that, whatever the cult was involved in might be related to the students trip. So they aren't just witnesses, but potential competitors.

Hence the higher risk plans of using dangerous natural hazards like the flock to drive away or kill people in the area.
>>
>>4142412
Dude, you're just making shit up at this point.
>>
>>4142412
>>4142433
The stone drill is not evidence alone, as they have no experience being buffed by Nura and could easily misjudge things. The ideas about the flock being set off early might hold merit however, as the path and timing are BOTH set since however many years ago specifically to avoid this situation, and are part of some political accords. Most importantly, even if the students did get away, traces of their time there could have been found, and traced back to the SDE. We might not have much time, but just in case we should have our stealth expert (Nura), or a certain ring-bound shadow, have a little lookie-loo in on the person later after everyone disbands.
>>
>>4142493
So you're saying that someone MIGHT've known that these birds would come early, they knew that they will be boosted by a stranger at the right time and place, knew how to gauge that boost to shoot down birds with intention to make them fall on top of themselves, and that they are connected to the cult no one's ever heard about before from a different country? No, I'm not buying that. If someone wanted to sabotage the express they would've tried something else. This made up conspiracy is full of shit. The kids said that they've not been detected by these cultists, no one noticed that they were there, even the faculty personnel, until they've encountered an ivonium beast.
And what does any of this migration stuff have to do with our mission? We could've done nothing at all since protecting the Express technically isn't a part of our contract.
>>
>>4142532
1. Someone might have CAUSED the birds to fly early. How? I don't fucking know, maybe a big explosion scaring the shit out of them? Like with that Ivonium stuff?
2. No, nobody would have predicted early that they would be boosted, that's dumb and nobody's saying that. Taken advantage of a chance occurrence? Absolutely possible. Also possibly just an accident, but we don't know.
3. These people are supposed to be highly trained and intelligent. This is a SHOOL ffs. Dropping a bird like that onto the train is subpar performance, if not on purpose.
4. If nobody's heard of the cult then nobody knows if someone's a member in secret. Or publicly, and nobody realizes because NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT THE CULT.
5. Who's to say they didn't do something else? THIS COULD BE A DISTRACTION.
6. Calling a conspiracy full of shit does nothing for an argument, and neither does your misunderstanding of anything and everything written thus far.
7. They weren't SPOTTED. Unexplained tracks, burns, warping in the stone, CORPSES which would have been eaten probably if killed by another monster, and any other number of things could be detected WELL after the kids left. Then the tracks and information they gather could point to the SDE.
8. We helped because we wanted to get side job money. Which you would KNOW if you payed attention to anything outside of what Handler puts up. Plus if it had been too much for them and the SDE fell, then nobody would be paying us and we'd have to go home.
>>
>>4142884
you are seeing thing where there are none, anon. Most of the points you said can be attributed to normal incompetence, not some super secret illuminati club that for some reason infiltrated the school because who knows why.
>>
>>4142532
The kids are running around telling strange mercenaries about the cult. Also, just because they don't think they were detected doesn't mean they actually weren't. Letting the scout escape to discover who sent them there is a very common tactic, especially when they're clearly underpowered students. What a coincidence that they should be investigating places important to the cult, almost unbelievable. It's not unlikely that the cult has some contacts in the university as well.

The flock is migrating out of season, abnormally.

That stone drill was possibly an accident, but if the birds were stimulated to attack the ship then it would only make sense to have someone on board it to co-ordinate. Accidentally having the birds fall on the ship is a great way to avoid suspicion.

And even if it wasn't a cultist, the person responsible should be found because they caused the deaths of several people. Like, an inquiry after an accident like this is normal so that future repeats can be avoided.

Meanwhile we're on the ship anyways, and we have a mindhacker and a shadow ghost. Why not take precautions and investigate?
>>
>>4142890
One time is an accident, twice is a coincidence, three times is enemy action.

We have three abnormal events here. A known cult presence, abnormal behaviour of wildlife, and deaths caused by friendly fire.

That's three.
>>
>>4142890
Yes they can. But just leaving it up to chance is stupid when we have the time and ability to CHECK. I've never said that all HAPPENED, just that it is POSSIBLE.
If we look into things nothing turns up, then YAY! No grand conspiracy to fuck everything up! One less complication! But if something shows up to support the possibility then we'd be way better off I think.
>>
>>4142895
>One time is an accident, twice is a coincidence, three times is enemy action.
that applies to the same event. Not three different things.
>A known cult presence
one that got discovered when they found the ivonium cache. which definitely was not so long ago
>abnormal behaviour of wildlife
That happens all the time, but even if it was an enemy action, it could be part of a foreign nation that wants some leverage with the school, not this mysterious group.
>deaths caused by friendly fire.
Implying that doesn't happen in real life. friendly fire kills are incredibly common in warfare. and it stands to reason that the panicked students that have little to no experience spellcasting in a live combat scenario will fuck up.
>>
>>4142915
And friendly fire is always investigated to make sure it's friendly.

> Abnormal animal changes happen all the time

But how often do they happen to people traveling towards an area with known cult activity, specifically the ship carrying witnesses to said activity?

I don't understand your response about the cult. I mean, yes?

> But these are three different events

Three different abnormal events on the same mission, to the same people.
>>
>>4142933
>But how often do they happen to people traveling towards an area with known cult activity, specifically the ship carrying witnesses to said activity?
situations like that happen rather often. the nukes had to change targets because that same day one city was covered with fog.

>Three different abnormal events on the same mission, to the same people.
Only one of them is abnormal and its the weird bird migration. Finding the cult is a coincidence and the friendly fire is incompetence due to the students being students and most of the teachers not being active combatants.
>>
>>4142996
> A cult being found by students investigating ruins is normal

> Friendly fire incident during an abnormal attack is normal, not that it wouldn't need to be investigated anyways.

Why are you so opposed to investigating things. Are you a Chinese Official dealing with a disease outbreak or something?
>>
>>4143183
> A cult being found by students investigating ruins is normal
for us, yes .also, you're the only one seriously calling them a cult.

> Friendly fire incident during an abnormal attack is normal, not that it wouldn't need to be investigated anyways.
yes, and it falls upon the school to investigate that. we literally aren't paid to do that job.

>Why are you so opposed to investigating things. Are you a Chinese Official dealing with a disease outbreak or something?
Calm down anon chan and don't try to compare things that are completely unrelated to each other. our job is to secure the fuel, not launch an investigation and unless we get paid more for that, we won't lift a finger.
>>
>>4143225
> you're the only one seriously calling them a cult.

A bunch of weird men in masks with ivorium covered monsters, found at a huge and hugely valuable deposit of ivorium? Sounds pretty cultish to me.

Not getting paid for investigating is a good argument, but since it seems to be involved in securing the fuel not getting ambushed by maked men with monster back-up is a good enough reason IMO.

Besides, we can sell info after we find it if we do, and it's not like we have anything else to do with our time while we're travelling.
>>
>>4143236
>A bunch of weird men in masks with ivorium covered monsters, found at a huge and hugely valuable deposit of ivorium? Sounds pretty cultish to me.

Have you considered them just being tribal guardians?
>>
>>4143236
you're still assuming that this group managed to infiltrate the school in the amount of time that it took the school to hire us and then decided to launch birds against us instead of using their supposed infiltrators to sabotage the floating structures or some other attack that would hinder the recollection process. i find that extremely hard to believe.
>>
>>4143260

I mean. How do we know they hadn't already infiltrated the school to research the ivorium deposit using the same info the students did?

And it makes sense they would already have some sort of control for restricting access to it in a non-obviously mechanical sabotage way.

I mean. Assuming they wanted to keep the location secret and not suddenly be dealing with military forces.

I am assuming a massive amount of resources can't be quickly or easily moved discretely.
>>
>>4143267
because what you're saying requires more and more mental gymnastics that get more ridiculous every time.
>>
>All of this just because some guy took a bad shot on a fast moving target from a long distance
>>
>>4142893
>And even if it wasn't a cultist, the person responsible should be found because they caused the deaths of several people.
Anon, nobody died. Read this again >>4140845
>>
...Armory it is.

Writing!
>>
>>4113611
>>4113615
Added some notes on Gartoum in the spreadsheet doc. Also added notes on Miranda's techniques because some stuff was missing from pastebins, though I'm not sure if I should be doing that.
>>
>>4143273
No. It doesn't. You're just not thinking about this as us jumping into a world with things ALREADY HAPPENING. The church didn't start brainwashing only AFTER we arrived in that medieval job, that was happening DECADES before at least.
The worst part is that I'VE READ STEAM DRAGON EXPRESS. I could tell you about it, but I'm not going to, to avoid metagaming. But keep in mind that Handler likes to run with cinematic rules, there IS something else happening. ALWAYS.
>>
>>4143787
do it mate. the idea of the doc to be public is that everyone can add the stuff that somebody else misses.
>>
>>4141014
“...You might be willing to throw a few extra tools our way. I imagine you’ve got something like an armory on board, right?” You’re not exactly hurting for weaponry, but you can’t say the same thing for your allies. Nura at least should have something automatic…

“Aye…” He doesn’t seem exactly eager to admit that, but admit it he does. “It’s not a thing we normally allow our students to partake in, but we have one. I, er...must say that many of our tools are highly magical in nature, and so some can be particularly...unintuitive to utilize without proper training, however.”

“You said some, but what about others?” you press.

At that, he sighs, and then nods. “Very well, very well...I’ll have someone show you to the armory in short order, and I’ll permit one object per individual but I’m afraid I must be off. There’s much to do about this issue- I understand there were injured amidst an incident during the fight. If you’ll excuse me?” He moves to get past you, and you let him. You’re looking forward to seeing what can be dug up…

“Right, here you go…” Another goblinoid is the one to show you the way; he seems a bit wary of the lot of you, but he’s at least doing his job. “Just be careful.” With that, he opens the heavy steel door; behind it is practically a warehouse full of various crates, many with labels on them. “Most of what we got here are wands, staffs, things o’ that nature. Got a few spare Artifices, some weird junk, an’ some dangerous junk, y’know? Basically anythin’ with a red label, we REALLY don’t wanna touch.” ah. Made sense. With that, you all take a look around, to decide what you wanted to claim for your own...

>Check the boxes of staves and wands first. Not your bag, but Nura seems to side eye them…
>Check the Artifice tools first. Bound to be something in there that can help, right?
>Hm...wonder if there’s a way to get him to spill on the ‘dangerous stuff’...
>Other
>>
>>4143789
Don't get too antsy if you've read the inspiration. It's just that- inspiration. Not that universe.

I legit forgot the name of the damn thing when I came up with this and was too lazy to check because 'I'm pretty sure I forgot it, so no way the ACTUAL name is Dragon Express.' Imagine my shock and frustration when nope, I just aped the name entirely subconsciously.
>>
>>4143794
>Hm...wonder if there’s a way to get him to spill on the ‘dangerous stuff’...
Hey cylica, we have a job for you
>>
>>4143794
>Hm...wonder if there’s a way to get him to spill on the ‘dangerous stuff’...
Nura, work your magic on him. A brush or two there.
>>
>>4143794
>check the boxes for Nura
>Hm...wonder if there’s a way to get him to spill on the ‘dangerous stuff’...
Anon who keeps suggesting using Cy's mind rewrite it's your time to shine.
>use mind rewrite
>After getting what we want we use it again to "adjust his memories"
>>
>>4143794
This sounds interesting>>4143811
>>
>>4143794
>Check the Artifice tools first. Bound to be something in there that can help, right?

See if there's any guns there that are water cooled in there. Might be a good way to smuggle out some ivorium... If there aren't any, let's try to get something automatic, like a magic tommygun or the local equivalent.

>>4143787
>No Idea. Probably just a funny way of saying "I pretend to swim and then I drag some poor sod through the shadow"

I'd assumed he was doing something like what this gun does.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MktPVfMrFmg
>>
>>4143794
>Other

Get Gartoum to count as a person!

>Hm...wonder if there’s a way to get him to spill on the ‘dangerous stuff’...

Ship full of nerds? Get our own hypernerd to talk to them! Hit them with Owlia to get them warmed up with some tech talk, then have Nura get interested and flirty so they say more than they should! Meanwhile try to keep Cylica from exploding.
>>
>>4143811
That's immoral and not a bad idea. But maybe we can do something more subtle like >>4143830 and get Cylica to "nudge" them a little while they're enthused and confused.
>>
>>4143794
>Hm...wonder if there’s a way to get him to spill on the ‘dangerous stuff’...
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4143794
Hmph. Well, obviously the ‘dangerous’ stuff is likely where the real juice is, so to speak. You don’t think you’ll have much to worry about on that front, but you’d at least like to see what’s under those lids...but the way he’s looking at you all, you have the idea that he’s not going to be eager to just let you peek in.

It’s for that reason that you silently motion to your cohorts to gather around, a few rows over, just out of his peripheral vision, you’re pretty sure. Not that he can’t see you, but staying somewhere not quite next to the target keeps things from being too suspicious. “So. Anyone else interested in those red-marked crates?”

“I confess I was curious, yes…” Cylica whispers.

“So how we gonna get ‘em?” Owlia asks.

“Well…”

> “Nura, do you think can you distract him? Heavily?”
> “Cylica, if there’s a distraction, think you can...adjust a couple of things upstairs?”
> “Considering what we’re here for, we might be able to talk him down…”
> Other
>>
>>4143855
> “Cylica, if there’s a distraction, think you can...adjust a couple of things upstairs?”
We need to be thorough
>>
>>4143855
>Other
"Nura, Cylica, I think it's time you girls work together to produce some magic. Think of it as practice."
>>
>>4143858
This may produce some hilarious results.
Supportin'.
>>
>>4143855
>"Nura, Cylica, I think it's time you girls work together to produce some magic. Think of it as practice."
>>
>>4143855
Oh right, Nura can boost magic and stuff
Switching to >>4143858
>>
>>4143858
Aw crap, real name slippage again. Sorry about that.

>"Aria, Cyrene, I think it's time you girls work together to produce some magic. Think of it as practice."
>>
Your eyes flit between Cylica and Nura, as a rather interesting plan comes to the fore. You can barely stop a small grin as you figure this might kill two birds with one stone.

"Aria, Cyrene, I think it's time you girls work together to produce some magic. Think of it as practice." The two of them are a bit confused at first, but then you outline the plan…

Cylica’s stare is one of revulsion. “RE-really?!” You resist a look over your shoulder to see if he was particularly concerned about that sudden outburst. No vocal curiosity yet, at least, so that’s good. Still, Cylica lowers her voice afterwards. “You really want me to inflict THAT kind of thinking on someone? Willingly?”

“...well, I think it’s a good idea.” Nura hazards. Owlia just blushes as Cylica gives the demoness a flat stare.

“Well, of course you think it’s good, you-” she cuts herself off, the rest of the statement getting blown through her nose in frustration. “Fine, fine, as it will.” Her voice is clipped. “Then go over and do your…’thing’.” She makes it sound as though ‘thing’ meant something else entirely. “I don’t need to be too close, but he should NOT be looking over here.”

“Sure thing!” she winks (causing Cylica to shudder a bit) before sashaying over towards the tall goblin faculty member. “Sooo, remind me,” she ask in a lower tone of voice as she wraps an arm around him- he visibly stiffens, eyes flickering between her, her...assets...and you all as you ‘disperse’ again around the room. Cylica surreptitiously walking past him. “What do you do here again?”

You wonder if he suspects anything considering the sudden come-on, but he’s not complaining. “O-oh, well, I run a lot of maintenance; y-y’know, make sure everything’s ship-shape. Ahaha...uh, that- that wasn’t meant to be a pun.”

“Aw, don’t worry, I thought it was clever!” She sidles up to him just a bit more. “So, basically, since I’m kinda new to the whole group, they’re gonna pick out something for me, which meeeans I get some time to talk with you!” Oh, that’s good. “So, I wager you’re good with your hands?” She levels a look you could pour on a waffle, and you can see Cylica trying to not...retch or strangle her, you’re not sure which. Regardless, she grips her staff (tightly) in both hands, breathes deeply, and before long you can see a purple mist coming out of her staff...and gently attaching to his head- not that he seems to know.

Now it’s just a question of how long she can sustain it- and if all the ‘memories’ take.

>Stopping here for tonight, but it's a roll, 1d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4143940
hmm
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4143940
Here goes
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4143940
>>
>>4143940
Lol. Cylica is fine with mind-rape but disgusted by Nura's flirting.

Is it because of jealousy that her sexuality is even better at manipulating minds (men mostly but also some women) than Cylicas magic is?
>>
>>4144299
Also probably because Nura is demon spawn. Even in their own universe Tieflings are outcasts/super special snowflakes
>>
>>4143940
A quick reminder that we REALLY aughta not be stealing from the client. So long as we're just oggling this shouldn't be bad, but don't let greed get the better of you guys. We're basically immortal, and we find artifacts in the course of our job, no need to start pissing off Sal.
>>
>>4144406
Yeah, but if they try to weasel out of paying then we know where to find this stuff. Plus leaving little notes on how to safely handle some of it would be amusing to me.
>>
>>4144432
so long as the wizard college doesn't have a way to find out someone got mind whammied.
>>
>>4144406
The Principal allowed 'one object per person' and the goblino technically said 'we don't want (to touch) red marked stuff', not 'you can't have it'.
>>
>>4143792
>>4143787
I was concerned because it feels like I'm taking over Handler's pastebin at this point, but alright.
Added stuff for the rest of the team.
>>
>>4144691
Technically this is true.

Verbal contracts are contracts. If anything, Sal would be disappointed if we didn't gank the good stuff.
>>
...Welp.

Guess who suddenly finds themselves with a surprising amount of free time thanks to a sudden case of 'closing down the building where I work thanks to you-know-what'?

Run will start after I get something to eat, but for a while it'll be like old times...maybe.
>>
>>4144702
Like old times... but with the Sword of Damocles hanging above our heads.
>>
>>4144693
well, the original idea was that. handler was doing too much on his side and its way easier for the anon hivemind to keep most things up to date.
>>
>>4144728
>hivemind
Ahahahhahahaha
>>
>>4144702
Ha! I knew you would be impacted eventually, my place got halted way back before it hit the USA. Now we can be out-of-work buddies.
>>
...Sorry, I legit got blindsided by work contacting me, ironically enough. Apparently I'm working from home in the near future. Somehow.

Ah well. Writing!
>>
>>4143940
>>4143941
>>4143941
>>4143950
>>4143954

Fortunately, it seems like her skill is in fact all it’s cracked up to be. His eyes are half-lidded (though you’re not sure if it’s due to Nura or Cylica’s influence), and he seems to be more receptive to Nura’s wiles by the second. “It’s so amazing how you manage to keep all of this organized,” she croons. “You must be pretty smart!”

“W-well, not just anyone can get a job on the Express…” he demurs. Nura just giggles, and Cylica scowls. She says nothing, however, simply continuing to hold him steady.

“So you’re EXTRA special!” Nura continues. “Does that mean you can get into places other people can’t?”

“Aha, yeah!” he says, a bit more confidently. “There’s a lot of materials and machinery on this ship not everyone can get to, and I’m one of th’ few that have permission. I know a lot more about this tub than even a lot of faculty!”

“Wow! So you know about everything in here, I bet!” Finally, she’s starting to work on him…

“Yeah, just about! I usually have to keep inventory, so I kinda gotta know what’s in here, right?” he grins. Seems like Cylica is giving him a bit of a confidence boost somehow. If she can use that right…

“Oh, yeah! That makes sense, especially for the dangerous stuff. I bet you’ve got some stories, huh?” She actually wraps her tail around him, leaning even closer as her grin does her devilish heritage credit. “Dangerous things take a dangerous guy to handle, I bet…”

“Oh ho ho, yeah, yeah...a lot of the stuff in those red crates are basically contraband,” he says foolishly, posturing a bit as he brushes off pretend lint off his shirt. “Buncha illegal Ivonium weapons, some dead magic artifacts, that kinda thing. Sweetheart like yourself shouldn’t worry your pretty face none, though- I’ve got it under control.” He grins and pats her hand as he says it, as you consider that information.

>Roll 1d18, best of three.

> See if she can’t milk more information out of him.
> Keep him fully distracted while you go sniff things out personally.
> Other
>>
Rolled 11 (1d18)

>>4145051
> See if she can’t milk more information out of him.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d18)

>>4145051
> Keep him fully distracted while you go sniff things out personally.
"Owlia, keep an eye on them. Make sure to notify me if something interesting comes up."
>>
Rolled 18 (1d18)

>>4145051
>> See if she can’t milk more information out of him.
>>
Rolled 9 (1d18)

>>4145051
> See if she can’t milk more information out of him.
with any luck, he himself will allow us to give us the weapons
"you know, we can do you a favor and take away those terrible and dangerous things from your hands"
>>
>>4145051
>
“Oh ho ho, yeah, yeah...a lot of the stuff in those red crates are basically contraband,” he says foolishly, posturing a bit as he brushes off pretend lint off his shirt. “Buncha illegal Ivonium weapons, some dead magic artifacts, that kinda thing.
>>
>>4145057
Wow they're good at this.
>>
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>>4145057
>>
>>4145057
Impressive.
>>
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>>4145061
the poor dudes has both of his heads attacked at the same time. there is no way he could have survived such assault.
>>
>>4145051
> Keep him fully distracted while you go sniff things out personally.
Just scan it with FutureSight
>>
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>>4145061
>>4145065
>>4145069
>>
So, digging deeper. Writing!
>>
>>4145087
Ratcheting the paranoia up from 11 to 13 now.

MULTIPLE CONSPIRACIES.
>>
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>>4145259
>>
>>4145051
>>4145054
>>4145055
>>4145057
You make the motion to ‘keep it rolling’ as Nura surreptitiously looks over his shoulder at you. Cylica looks back to see much the same, and she silently turns back around to refocus. Owlia, you can tell from a glance, is already looking back towards the red-labeled boxes, and is already sidling back that way.

“That’s SO good to hear,” Nura says without missing a beat as she refocuses on him. “I bet you’re so good at handling things...”

“A few things, yeah,” he says nonchalantly. “One of the spookier things in there is this weird external arm thing. Like, you put them on and it injects you with some Ivonium-based compound. Gives you some crazy power, but makes you go nuts. I heard that the guy who wore it took like, five of our top teachers to take down, and it wasn’t easy.” He shudders. “Real bad news.”

“Really? Yeah, that’s scary…” and that might be actually true, judging by her tone. “You really ARE brave to even touch something like that.”

“It’s my job, yeah,” he agrees. “But it’s worth it, for sure. Another scary bit was this weird device where- well, we’re still not sure what it does exactly. But we found it on a student excursion, too. One of the kids ran across this weird disk-thing, and next thing you know, he’s yelling like he caught fire. Hadn’t, though; turns out it was something messing with his skin. Stretching it, molding it...we aren’t sure what was up with it, but we’re pretty sure it’s Dead Magic. Took a lot of healing to fix him up, but the kid was never really fit for magic after that. Poor thing. Next to that, the next thing we found was some kind of Ivonium corruption gun...” He shakes his head. “Less said about THAT, the better.”

Interesting, all of that. But for what good…?

>Indicate you’re looking for something specific, subject-wise. (What?)
>Those items should be good. See if you can’t ask to borrow some of them.
>Well, none of those sound particularly useful to you. If it’s all like this, might be worth just leaving well enough alone.
>Other
>>
>>4145293
>Those items should be good. See if you can’t ask to borrow some of them.
Both for research, and blackmail material.
>>
>>4145293
>>Those items should be good. See if you can’t ask to borrow some of them.
Grab the arm and the gun. The disk sounds a bit too fleshwarp-y for my liking, although we could tell the Head Magister we'd be willing to help test or research them.
>>
>>4145293
>Those items should be good. See if you can’t ask to borrow some of them.
>>
>>4145293
>Those items should be good. See if you can’t ask to borrow some of them.
Arm is good at least
>>
We should ask where the kid who picked up the disk is right now, he certainly has some juicy bits to tell.
>>
>>4145293
>Those items should be good. See if you can’t ask to borrow some of them.
>The arm and the gun
>>
>>4145335
FUCK, I forgot about that. Supportin'
>>
>>4145335
Agreed.
>>
>>4145293
>Those items should be good. See if you can’t ask to borrow some of them.
>>
Writing, incidentally.
>>
>>4145293
>Those items should be good. See if you can’t ask to borrow some of them.

Messing with his skin? Like it was trying to coat it in Ivonium? LIKE THE MONSTERS?!?!?!

Let's put it on Gartoum and see what happens.
>>
>>4145335
Do we really need to mess with the disk? The only body horror related stuff we have is the biotech ailen armor (which is soooo faaar in the research queue) and maybe the experimental healing barrier we have with us, maybe. It was already mentioned that there's too much stuff to research by multiple characters.
The Ivonium gun and arm at least have some similarities with Seither stuff and are already related with crystals.
>>
>>4145370
Anon, can you tone it down, seriously? You've been constantly sperging out this entire thread.
>>
>>4145371
We're not getting the disk judging by the votes, and we're meeting the kid to catch side-quests.
And don't care about him too much, he's the resident shitposting clown.
>>
>>4145371
Yeah, personally, I think we should let them keep the disk, although I'd like to take a look at it with our FutureSight first, just to see what it's deal is, and how the Express should properly handle it. Not use it, mind, just enough to figure out what going on with it.
>>
>>4145373
No.

No I cannot.

Especially now that we're actually finding more links in

the Conspiracy.
>>
>>4145293
Hm...those first two sound reasonable enough. Worth looking into, at any rate. You give a quick nod to Nura again, and hold up two your index and ring fingers while mouthing ‘ask him for them’.

She seems to get the idea, at least. “Yeah, maybe not. But my friends are pretty good with figuring out weapons...maybe they can do something about it- or at least dispose of it properly, maybe?” She hazards. “I mean, they sound sooo scary to really be near…”

“Yeah, it’s kinda mind-bending when you realize how much dangerous stuff is in these aisles,” he admits. “Takes a careful hand to keep them all secure. And really, I shouldn’t tell you this, but that corruption gun I mentioned? Don’t wanna say anything about it, but I’ve heard tell it’s not the only one- we just took to destroying the others we found and we kept this one and some smashed parts for reference. Iiiii’d rather not have it around, myself. But, gotta do whatcha gotta do.”

“So maaaybe we could take them off your hands? I mean, we’re professionals, after all! We keep on the move, too, so no one would know where to find them or anything else if they learned you had all this dangerous stuff here!” she offers with a smile. “It’d help you out bunches, I think! And I think I’d feel sooo good about helping you out...” Her tail snakes around his legs, and you can hear a hot breath from him inadvertently.

“Well…” he pauses as he considers it, even through the haze of Cylica’s mental manipulation. “I guess these things are pretty safe in your friends’ hands...you ARE working for us, after all.”

“Oh, we promise! We’ll never let anyone on the whole planet ever touch them again!” she swears. “The gun OR the arm thing! Although I certainly wouldn’t mind touching YOUR arms…” she flirts, hugging one close to her in a very...particular area.

The goblin blushes hard, but doesn’t refute it. “Y-yeah...a-anyway! Sure, yeah, follow me. I’ll show you where they are- but don’t tell anyone else yet...they might not like it even if it’s the best decision to get rid of ‘em…”

Finally. Although not at all vital, they could come in handy. As for what next to do…

>Keep to yourselves; you’ll be looked for in due time once everything’s ready for takeoff.
>Might be good to talk more to the Head Magister, see if anything changes.
>Other

(Done for tonight.)
>>
>>4145422
>Keep to yourselves; you’ll be looked for in due time once everything’s ready for takeoff.
poor goblin. he got blueballled and mind controlled hard (heh).
>>
>>4145422
>Might be good to talk more to the Head Magister, see if anything changes.
>Scan the new stuff with your FutureSight for more details
>>
>>4145428
we can do the scan in the safety of our rooms
>>
>>4145431
The vote is what to do for the rest of the day, not what to do right now at this exact moment.
>>
>>4145422
>Might be good to talk more to the Head Magister, see if anything changes.
And yeah, FutureSight the heck out of the tools.
>>
>>4145432
i don't think we'll do a full skip, but sure, lets scan them when we get away from prying eyes.
>>
>>4145422
Now that I think about it, maybe we should keep to ourselves and talk about the security stuff with Cylica (we did vote to get Miranda involved) and ask Nura more about her techniques and other skills.
>>4145428
Switching the first bit to
>Keep to yourselves; you’ll be looked for in due time once everything’s ready for takeoff.
>>
>(Elsewhere)

>Sssssoooooo, bosses...what's the verdict?

>Da 'verdict' is that this whole rigmarole ain't normal. Even for US.

>Quite. This is...I believe most of the limited folk would call it 'distressing'. Possibly 'worrisome'.

>It's those so-called 'liiimited' folk that DO seem to be the cause of this...partially, at least.

>Well, if'n our intel is right, this ain't gonna end well if we leave well enough 'lone. Someone gotta step up. Can't just handle things direct, else...

>Indeed. A...'civil disagreement' such as this may lead to far worse than a fine. This will need to be...subtle.

>Yap. Gotta work through the lil' folk, someone is, if they wanna put the kibosh on these antics.

>And you think it's us? How bold.

>Eh, this rate? Gotta fight fire with fire. An' the best kinda firestarter is a spark, not a torch, yeah? We's a spark in most of tha' other's eyes. Neat, but nothin' too much ta worry 'bout. Key 'ere is ta change that subtle enough so that folks can't tell afore everythin' goes up in flames.

>Yes, yes. As you say. Although I do insist caution, here. With the accused and their...other, should they find out, things may just get dangerous for us. After all, speaking of flames...what's the phrase, again? Ah, yes...

>...the Flaaaaames of Passion. Quiiiiiite frightening, no?

>Yeah. Alrighty, then. We keep low for now. Jus' keep building up slow an' steady like we have been. We'll figure out more later on. Alright, you mugs, back to da grind!

>Ahaaaaaaa...sir, it IS just me...

>I know it's just you, ya mug! Get outta here!

>Ohohohoho...

>...

>...Dat guy's a pain sometimes, I swear. 'Least he's a solid 'and- even if he DOES got summa the gaudiest glasses I've evah seen...
>>
>>4145422
>Keep to yourselves; you’ll be looked for in due time once everything’s ready for takeoff.
>>4145466
Lemme guess, the groups responsible for Intersection's recent shake-up don't want any more unpowered folks in their properties. So they executed a power move and pushed in more policies, mostly favorable to them and either kick out the normal people or re-appropriate them, in a way that's unknown to us.

>At last, though, she’s done with her tale, and you’re somewhat unceremoniously ushered out of her domain. Although, when she pushes you out, she leans in, whispering something you’re sure only you can hear.

>“Watch yourself, Styles. Don’t start asking TOO many questions unless you want to be the answer.” With that, she shoves you all out, and slams the door behind her.

>unless you want to BE the answer

Pay attention to Mab Corticle's warning.
>>
>>4145422
>>4145474
And supporting scanning our (currently) temporal loot when we're away from prying eyes.
>>
Alright, writing shortly. Will finish up on this and then make a new thread.

...or maybe I'll just make a new thread outright.
>>
After acquiring the devices you’d asked for, there was little purpose in sticking around in the air-train’s (or at least that’s as close as you figured you’d get to describing what it was) storage/armory. Cylica surreptitiously releasing her hold on the poor sap after you’d left was done in a snap, with Nura slyly promising to visit him ‘later’ to ‘have fun’ while he was still a bit discombobulated. She didn’t really specify what kind of fun, but judging by the glare Cylica gave, it was pretty obvious. Owlia just blushed a bit, but said nothing.

At any rate, you had some new gear; and now you were going to largely lay low and keep to yourselves, you’d decided, after that had happened; didn’t want the guy to start second-guessing himself if he saw you all around. Besides, there was something else you wanted to do before you took off…

But first, something very important. Breakfast.

“Sooo...I have to admit, I’ve never had this,” Nura says idly as she pokes at the eggy bread. She’d focused on the sausage links instead, downing a decent number of them before daring to try the main dish. “Is it good?”

“It’s pretty good,” you say, already downing your third slice. Not really much room to talk.

Owlia and Cylica had opted for loaded omelettes.

Seems like yourself and the student body wouldn’t be bothering each other today…

“Umm…” Damnit, you brought that one on yourself. “Pardon me?” You turn to see who dared- oh. Huh. You remember this one. Prissy young thing, you’d thought yesterday. Lot of curls in her red hair, frilly dress. Kinda short, but she at least listened during your impromptu lecture the other day. Didn’t exactly mean to do it, but the guy doing it was just...ugh. Too soft. Mages use magic, but there’s no reason they can’t beat someone down old-fashioned ways, either.

Or at the least, crack a few easy joints. “Hm?” You might as well humor her real quick.

“Sorry to interrupt you, but I was just...I meant to ask you the other day- about using torque to pop someone’s elbow out of their socket; you, uh...I was wondering. If you managed to grip someone but didn’t manage to twist enough for a clean separation, would that mean you resort to more lateral movement, or would that result in a-”

“Hey!” Suddenly, a nearby voice calls out to the girl. “Don’t interrupt the guest teacher’s breakfast! She’ll have time later, right?”

“Oh? Er, will you be coming back today?” the first girl asks, eyes wide. “I thought your lecture was very unique and enlightening. A lot of the class thought so, too!”

> “No, no, I’m not. It’s better I just tell you now...” Well, you might as well get this over with now before you sequester yourself.
> “Well...huh. Didn’t think I was popular.” Seriously. You had kinda presumed they were just afraid of punishment if they DIDN’T listen. “Maybe.”
> ...eh. You have some time. And it’s just one class. Still can hole up for the rest of it before and after. “I guess. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions this time.”
> Other
>>
>>4148293
>> ...eh. You have some time. And it’s just one class. Still can hole up for the rest of it before and after. “I guess. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions this time.”
Teaching nerds the fine arts of street fighting? Yes, please.
>>
>>4148293
> ...eh. You have some time. And it’s just one class. Still can hole up for the rest of it before and after. “I guess. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions this time.”
Hopefully this will inspire some of them to go INT/STR hybrid.
>>
>>4148293
>> ...eh. You have some time. And it’s just one class. Still can hole up for the rest of it before and after. “I guess. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions this time.”
>>
>>4148293
> ...eh. You have some time. And it’s just one class. Still can hole up for the rest of it before and after. “I guess. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions this time.”
okay, just one
>>
>>4148293
> ...eh. You have some time. And it’s just one class. Still can hole up for the rest of it before and after. “I guess. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions this time.”
>>
So, what do you guys think should be the lesson? I was thinking we MIGHT teach them our Sticky Mana spell, it's a pretty good utility spell in and out of combat, especially for emergency repairs or a last ditch attempt to keep them from falling off the airship.

Other than that, maybe show them how to properly fight with knives? Pressure points and how to utilize them?
>>
>>4148293
> ...eh. You have some time. And it’s just one class. Still can hole up for the rest of it before and after. “I guess. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions this time.”
A chunni and her heart has a s soft spot for the kids. Now we know why she has so few friends. Miranda should have been a teacher instead
>>
NEW THREAD

>>4148358
>>4148358
>>4148358

>>4148362
That DOES seem to have become a recurring trait of hers in and out of mission, hasn't it? I hadn't expected that starting out, but it's a fascinating development.



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