>>4592567
>You're a lot more lethargic all of a sudden. Unless you slug back a bunch of water- like, way more than anyone normal- you kinda very clearly lost a step.

>>4592567
>>You're a lot more lethargic all of a sudden. Unless you slug back a bunch of water- like, way more than anyone normal- you kinda very clearly lost a step.

CRAPPIT I'M CRYING TEARS OF JOY!!

Very excited to see what's in store.

>>4592567
>You swear you're starting to get a sickly hue all the time...almost green. Hard to really avoid. And your hair's getting outta control, like it grows back almost as soon as you cut it...
I'll go with this because it will lead to ostracization. Which might lead to us resorting to crime.
I haven't seen an evil / villain quest in a while

Yeah, don't expect this to follow Mutant Quest beat for beat, folks! Warington ain't Konigsburg. Though in my head they aren't too horribly far from each other.

And locked and writing.

>>4592567
anything to know if one hasn't followed Mutant!Quest beforehand?

>>4592620

Mutant!Quest QM here to enlighten people with no prior experience of Mutant!Quest:

Premise is copy-pasted from the /qtg/:

>Dafuq is Mutant!Quest?

Following a Mass Empowering Event via particle accelerator explosion, the MC finds herself imbued with awesome fish-girl powers... which would be a lot more awesome if said powers didn't include horror hunger.

We make friends, battle enemy mutants, and make lots of JoJo references, all-the-while dabbing on a multi-billion dollar lab operation whenever we deem fit (cause it's for the greater good!).

>Where does Mutant!Quest occur?

In the shining city of Konigsburg, New Jersey-- an illustrious place known for its innovation, culture, and beauty, and draconian hold on all forms of media.

Konigsburg is also home to FutureLabs. With some of the largest research and development facilities located along the eastern seaboard, FutureLabs is America's beacon of all things science and home to many of the great minds that have helped in the construction of the particle accelerator.

And said particle accelerator happened to also have an effect on the MC of this thread. Though, since this is set in a completely different city, you really don't need too much knowledge of the original Mutant!Quest. All you need to know is haha particle accelerator go blam.

This has been my TED talk.

>>4592567
>You're a lot more lethargic all of a sudden. Unless you slug back a bunch of water- like, way more than anyone normal- you kinda very clearly lost a step.

>>4592629
HEP accident, as good of a source of powers as any
I take it.

I just wish I wasn't an eurofag who's stuck in a loop of never being present for the most important scenes and not bothering too much with reading up in the morning until I am out of the loop for a quest.
Though I stay optimistic and try to always follow new quests.

>>4592582
>>4592585
Your dad had, blessedly, been on a snack run at the time of the accident, and he'd avoided the worst of it, though he'd apparently been shocked and dismayed- aaaand might've sprained an ankle in the process of freaking out.

Your dad was stupid lucky, and FutureLabs had good insurance. He didn't seem to have any issues. You?

You're absolutely parched, half the time. You were never a massive water drinker, but hell, you've seen the light since then.

Your dad didn't seem to question it, and your mom and sister were glad you were drinking healthier...but that's only because they only saw the single jug you put in the fridge for excuse purposes.

They didn't see the additional five jugs you bought weekly and kept in your room. Nor did they see the plants on the windowsill (and in a corner of your room, and maybe on the nightstand) that you kept nowadays because you'd gotten weirdly sensitive about the lack of plant life in there.

You'd found just being out in the sun more enticing than anything else in recent memory, to boot. Not just laying out there, mind, but doing thing. Being active. It was like you got energy just from that. You'd found yourself running faster, jumping higher, and lasting longer than you'd ever had before. Hell, you might be able to actually do sports at this rate! Well, if you kept up the aqua intake. Because if you didn't...well, you didn't get sickly, but more like you didn't want to do aaaaanything, ever. Took a real effort to even just get out of bed. But, at least you could, and at least you could go about your day without anyone looking at you funny.

Well, so long as you hid the vines. Those were a problem that you were still learning to solve. They were high up on your arm, coming out of your skin(?) near your pits, so at the least they were easy to hide (if perhaps make people think you had thick shoulders), and you'd found yourself with control over them, no less! They were tough, wiry, and, in ONE cool positive, were plenty capably of hauling your ass up, down, and all around if you so pleased.

Swinging was a must. And there were enough high places in the city (not to mention half-done construction projects) that one could swing themselves silly pretty much as they liked. That and, well, the whole 'plant sense and forced growth' thing. Not that you could do a lot WITH it, yet...

It was weird- you'd never been super big on plants, though your mom had crammed a decent amount of facts into your head by sheer osmosis. You didn't think 'plant sense' was ever a factor, though. It's not overwhelming, at least- more like the feeling you get when a bunch of people are around you.

It's while you're hanging out in the city park, though, that you get a call. And the ID causes you to sigh, but, you'd better answer anyway. "Yello?"

"DUDE!?" The voice asks. It's high pitched, male, and constantly sounds stressed, AKA Jamie AKA The First Of Only Two Real Friends You Have In This City.

(1/2)

>>4592660
"No one here by that name." Really, he needs to learn to calm it down...

“Oh, for- you know what, nevermind! Man, listen, where ARE you? Did you forget about the concert entirely or what?!”

...Oh. Ohhhhhh. Damn, right. There was a nightclub concert around mid-city that you, Jamie, and your Second Friend, Max, were wanting to go to. Fury of Sound, some of the best EDM you'd ever listened to. But Max had to cancel- came down sick. Meaning it'd just be you and them...and then the explosion and powers and all that. You'd completely forgotten. “Dang, dude, sorry.”

“Sorry nothing! Just get here, man! They're almost finished the first set of the night!” Damn. You're going to have to move fast...and with traffic being what it is...

...well, nothing's faster that slipping across the skyline, if you're careful about it. You know where to go, you just need to make sure you're topped off...

>Roll 1d100. Best of three.

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>4592690

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>4592690

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>4592690

Not great, but not bad. Writing!

>>4592700
rolling great even here I see

File: Spoiler Image (120 KB, 239x300)

120 KB GIF

>>4592660
>the additional five jugs you bought weekly
is this some third world country? We can drink from the tap, it's cheaper AND reduces plastic usage

>swinging through the skyline
so we got the powers of >pic related

>>4592717

Murican here. Tap water tastes like metallic shit, and bottled water’s not that expensive.

Jug water master race.

>>4592690
>>4592693
>>4592699
>>4592700
You're not too GREAT at the swinging thing, but you try your best. It's still worse down on the streets, from what you can see, and hopping the rooftops is more than worth it. You can see a lot of folks near and far, hanging out regardless...it's like the explosion and subsequent mutations along the city limits never happened. People in Warington are good at ignoring misfortune, you think. Or at least moving past it, whichever. You'd heard there were a handful out there kinda like you, maybe more. Hadn't gotten in touch with anyone, though, and you weren't sure you wanted to. But, something to think about for later. You've got music to enjoy.

It's still later than you'd hope by the time you get a few blocks from the nightclub and drop in an alleyway. It takes only a bit to get in by now, and you can hear the beats thumping as you enter.

“Jeez, what took you?” Jamie cries out as he appears from out of nowhere. His stringy blonde hair is frazzled as always. Really, helps the 'practically an engineering genius' thing he has going on, but not great for clubbing. “They're over half done!”

“Sorry, sorry! Just got caught up in...Iunno, issues.” You hadn't told him about the mutations yet. You're pretty sure he's not going to be offended or scared, but...there's just something about the idea that makes you nervous. “C'mon, let's get in there and have some fun!”

“Yeah, yeah...” At least he's smiling as he says it.

It's about halfway through the second set when you're hanging back at the bar, enjoying a glass of water- it was dry, at least, even if the entry limit was 18. Jamie had finally decided to hit the dance floor, and you'd let him to it. Not that it mattered. You'd discovered early on that alcohol was a no-go: it messed with your body something beyond fierce. Meh. You weren't supposed to be drinking anyway...ugh.

It's during these thoughts that you hear a voice to your side. “Hey.” It's soft. Female. Kinda flirty, even. You turn to see a young woman seating herself next to you. She's really rocking the whole purple scheme, too. Purple haltertop, with a matching jacket, shorts, and shoes. Her purple-pink hair's just as outstanding, and she has a glimmer in her eye that's something else. “You okay? Look like you got some heavy stuff on your mind.”

“Do I?” You chuckle mirthlessly. You're not surprised, although someone just walking up and calling you out on it is kinda awkward. Even if she IS cute. “Eh, I guess. Personal growing up junk, I guess.”

“Hey, need an ear?” she asks more seriously. “I mean, it IS my club. Least I can do is make sure everyone's having a good time.” She holds her hand out. “Call me Mindy.”

(1/2)

>>4592801
Hm...well. “Kyle. Nice to meetcha.” you take her hand- and to your surprise, you can feel something in it. A note? Did she just slip you her number out of nowhere? “Hey, so...” You begin to open your mouth but, well...what do you say to that?”

“Just when you want to talk. One to one.” She winks. “Most folks aren't big on spilling their guts in public, right?” Ha...well, then.

But before you can respond, it's then that you see her eyes widen a bit, looking behind you, and she gets up. “Hey, ring me up later, kay? I promise it'll all be fine.” She smiles that soft smile again, and she quickly heads off to, as you turn around to follow her strut, meet up with two...rather formally dressed individuals at the door- one guy, one girl. They glance at you briefly, but she quickly diverts their attention before she leads them out of the door and outside. You can see an expression of concern on her face as she practically pushes them out, however.

That...seemed weird.

>Maybe you should follow her...
>...nah, it's none of your business. Enjoy the rest of the concert.
>You should tell Jamie. He's gonna FLIP at this.
>Write-In

>>4592807
>>Maybe you should follow her...

>>4592807
>Maybe you should follow her...

>>4592807
>You should tell Jamie. He's gonna FLIP at this.

Writing!

>>4592807

>Maybe you should follow her...

>>4592807
>>You should tell Jamie. He's gonna FLIP at this.
>>Write-In
>>4592819
>>4592829
>>4592902
Egh...this doesn't seem great. Folks dressed like that usually don't mean much good in places like this. You don't think there's much in the way of organized crime around here, but...well, you could be wrong. And you're not stupid, you're not going to try to interfere directly...maybe just take a video of some attempted extortion or something, right? Yeah.

You decide to wait a minute or two before heading out yourself- you're just glad you're stamped so you can get back in. Now, which way did they...ah. Voices. Just behind the alley, seems like. Good.

“...know that this is an urgent situation. We know there's more mutants walking the streets HERE, too. And this isn't Konigsburg. The media is far less under control, and there's already stories and rumors spiraling out of control. FutureLabs' good name and future rests on this situation being DEALT WITH. We're doing our best to downplay things still, but if-”

“Relax, for chrissakes,” Mindy mutters. “I know the stakes, but how about you let me do the thing you asked me to do, huh? If any more 'dangerous mutants' ping on my radar, I'll let you know, first thing. I have before, haven't I?” Wait, what?

“Yes, but your output has slowed,” the woman mentions. “We just thought you might need a reminder that this deal also keeps YOU safe and running your club in peace, as we agreed.” Wait, so then...she's an informant?

“And is that ALL this little visit is about?” she asks. “ 'Cause if that's it, you can leave.”

“Just keep your eyes open, hm?” The lady responds. Suddenly, a ringing sounds out in the alleyway. For a moment, you panic that it's yours, but you quickly hear a beep, and the lady answers. “Hello? ...mhm...oh? Where is it? ...Ah...alright...alright, we'll be there. McGruder out.” Another beep. “Well, that's our cue. Seems we might have one nearby. Now, off you go...”

She huffs, but leaves, and you have to make certain to get away before they notice you...

The rest of the concert is...muted, in a way, for you. You can barely remember the rest of it, and your walk home with Jamie was quieter than normal with the thoughts swirling through your head.

When you get home, however...you can't help but stare at the phone number in your hand. Now that you know what she's doing...is it even safe? She doesn't seem to exactly be on the level...but that might just be her covering her bases.

>Call her.
>Don't call her.

>>4592961
Ignore the top bit/option, I overcopied.

>>4592961
>Don't call her.

>>4592961
>>Don't call her.

Never trust a thot.

>>4592961
>call her from a phone booth or burner phone

>>4592987
supporting

>>4592987

changing to this.

Writing.

>>4592961
>>4592987
>>4592991
>>4593001
Hmmm...you're not sure what's going on here, but you at the least don't want to risk her getting your number and her not being on the level. You might be able to do something else, though...

“Hello?” Burner phones help. It's a bit pricey for someone with only a part time job, but the security is helpful. You'd gotten it the next day. Thank goodness for weekends. “Uh, this is Kyle. From last night?”

“Oh!” She seems surprised. “I, uh, huh. Part of me was wondering...but, uh, nevermind. Hey, glad you did! And, well...I'll admit that part of the reason that I approached you was something...well, you've got some privacy, right?”

“...yeeess..?” That wasn't creepy at all.

“Right, sorry. Look, so...I'll be up front. I kinda approached you because...you're a mutant, right? Well, I'm one, too.” You can imagine you'd have been WAY more shocked if you hadn't been wondering about that since your little eavesdropping session last night.

“No way?!” you fake regardless. Don't want her to get too suspicious. “How'd you figure that out?”

She lets out a small laugh. “I can kinda tell. Just a vibe I get- AS my power. And, well. I'm trying to reach out to mutants, y'know? On the sly. I wanna give them kind of a hideaway from all the worry and stress. Just a place to hang with other mutants. There's a couple rules to follow, but aside from that, well...you want it, you got it. Whaddya say?”

...Thaaat seems suspect. But it WOULD be nice to not have to worry about exposing your arms in public...and chug all you need without people looking at you too weird. If she's up front about it, that is. But then again...maybe you can confront her about it since you're on a burner. Would be good to know if there was someone out there you needed to keep away from- and maybe YOU'D have to be the one warning people, if worst came to worst. Not to mention, just out and out saying this seems...risky. What if someone who wasn't for it all ended up knowing her big secret?

>Agree, see what she has to say.
>Disagree, you're not taking the risk.
>Ask her about what you saw last night.
>Other.

>>4593110
>Ask her about the people who contacted her at the party
Let's not give away that we sneaked yet, let's just ask if she knows them and etc

>>4593110
Can we beat around the bush and allude to last night while still leaving ourselves plausible deniability?
If not, I say flat out decline. We can just tell people we have a medical condition, which we technically do.

>>4593110
>>Ask her about what you saw last night.

>>4593118
>>4593110

Also would like to incorporate this into my choice

Cool. Writing!

>>4593110
>>4593115
>>4593118
>>4593119
>>4593120
“Welll...I mean, maybe? I guess I'm just kinda wondering about it all, y'know? Like, there's a lot I've gotta worry about. Beyond the, uh...mutual stuff, I mean. And y'know, I thought about calling last night after the concert, but you seemed kinda busy...”

“Oh, nah,” she quickly dismisses. “Just caught me at a bad time, is all.”

“You sure? They seemed like they were important,” you fire back.

“Nah, not really,” she lies. “Just some folks for, y'know, financial insurance help. Showed up all of a sudden, yeah, but we've known each other for a bit, so yeah. Nothing you need to worry about. But don't worry, they aren't gonna know about US. Heck, less mutants they know about the better.” She has a joking cadence for that last bit, but the lower tone she said it in makes you wonder... "But hey, I get it's a risk. So tell you what- how about we just meet and talk for now? It's still daylight out, it's kinda hot, meet me at Granger's? The fast food place downtown, if you can get there."

Hm. She's hiding it from you. Question is, why? She doesn't sound like she's really endorsing them, but...

>Sounds fair. See you soon.
>Nah, it's fine. Where's the hideaway?
>Other

>>4593233

>Nah, it's fine. Where's the hideaway.

I feel like we should scout this hideaway before we actually go INTO it so we don't get caught in a honeypot. Real sneaky though just in case.

Do we have enough control of our powers to camouflage ourselves with ivy or something of the sort?

>>4593254

You can sprout flowers and grass over your body, but it feels REALLY REALLY awkward and it's hard to shed off.

>>4593258

Wait. So the roots grow into our body?

Neat.

>>4593233
>Nah, it's fine. Where's the hideaway?
I don't want to talk to this sketchy ho in person. I feel like the safehouse is an obvious trap, but it can't hurt to know where it is.

I'll continue this tomorrow. Kinda tired. It's just a start, though!

>>4593328
>>4592753

I might have to second this dude. Water where I am isn't much better.

Is it like that in more industrialized places?

>>4593321

Great start! Definitely hyped for what comes next!

>>4593328
I'm Murican and tap water also tastes fine to me.

>>4593321
Cheers OP, thanks for running!

>>4593233
>Sounds fair. See you soon.

>>4593233
>Be honest.
>"Look, I followed you yesterday and I heard you talking to those goons, and... well, I got myself a burner phone just to call you, so you don't know who I am, but I know who you are. But, to be honest, I don't want to go into knowing someone with a blackmail of mutantualy assured destruction, but I got to save my own ass here, you know?"

>>4593233
>>4593254
>>4593307
Thinking about it, you might as well. She seems like she's trying really hard to convince you, and either that's suspect or she really is that hopeful. Either way...well, you can at least try to scope out the place. If it seems too sketchy, you can just noshow and claim something came up, maybe. That's if you even see her again- burner phone and all. “Nah, it's fine. So where's this hideaway at?”

A sigh comes through. “Oh, thank goodness. Hey, don't worry, it'll be great. You'll find it right on 138th South Rockton Street.” Huh. That's not far from the club at all, you think. “Look for the big red bricked building. And it's open any time, just ask for the 'Midnight M Special' – doesn't matter the time of day. I'll see you there soon? Maybe tomorrow afternoon?”

Might as well. “Yeah, that'll work. Later.” The phone goes dead, and you find yourself wondering just what you've gotten into. Here's hoping...

The next day, reaching the place isn't hard- you've got time, and you don't want to look too conspicuous. But it's kinda easy to notice as you round the corner carefully; there's a red bricked building, just as she says. It's pretty nondescript, but you easily notice that Mindy's casually sitting on the stoop, waiting. Still in pink, but it's more casual- a tank top and jeans. Huh. Two other kids- one a mohawked boy, the other a much plainer looking brunette girl- both walk past her, and they give each other a quick wave as they pass, heading into the building.

Well...nothing too obvious at first blush, at least. But you're not sure if you want to keep going-

-but then she seems to shift and turns towards you, and you dart out of sight as soon as she starts moving. Crap, did she see you? You hope not...

>Roll 1d20. Best of three.

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4594542

File: b8d61991d108a110ca24f187a(...).jpg (31 KB, 600x600)

31 KB JPG

>>4594546

Crap. I think I accidentally brought the Gnoll Quest luck here boys.

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4594542
hello anon

>>4594542

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4594567
forgot my roll somehow

>>4594542
>>4594546
>>4594550
>>4594571
It's a tense few minutes, but...nothing. No call out, no approaching steps...but you're still not going to peek out too soon. After about 5 or so minutes, at least, you feel more confident. A check out sees her gone. Maybe she headed inside?

Heck, maybe you should? You inch closer, and closer...and, well. You're inside before you realize. The place is very...velvet. Soft lights. And some tables? And the smell of food...wait, is this a restaurant? It didn't look like it from the outside...

There's a receptionist/cashier to your right. Young, and with spiky hair, but has a very pop punk style to her- even has the gum chewing thing going on. “Hey! Welcome to Minder's! What'll you have?”

“...Midnight M Special,” you say casually, and her eyes sparkle.

“Ooh! Gotcha. Newbie, huh?” She chews harder and blows a bigger bubble than you'd ever seen- before sucking it back in easily before she stands up and comes around the desk. “Call me Gummy Bear. Glad to have ya!”

You take the hand proffered. “Name's Kyle, and same, I guess. So, I got this invite...”

“Yeah, right? Follow me.” She motions you towards a back door; and after a turn down the hall away from the kitchen, heads down, then- knocks on a space on the wall twice, before turning what looks like a burnt out candle holder.

You're only partially surprised at the reveal of a set of stairs heading down behind a false wall. “After you!”

“So, what are you here for?” she asks idly.

“What do you mean?” you respond. “I thought this was just a hangout.”

“Huh? I mean, we do that, but, nah. We do more. Outreach, protection, that sorta thing.” she shrugs. “Helps keep the new mutant community all on one keel, keeps people from freaking out about possible attacks and whatnot.” Huh. Interesting.

You can already hear people near the bottom of the stairs.

>Huh. Mindy didn't say anything about that...
>So what do you do? Just man the front?
>How many people does she have here?
>Write-In

>>4594686
>How many people does she have here?

>>4594686
>>How many people does she have here?
>>Huh. Mindy didn't say anything about that...

>>4594686
>So what do you do? Just man the front?
>Huh. Mindy didn't say anything about that...

>>4594686
>>4594692
>>4594697
>>4594706
“So how many people are here?” you ask.

She shrugs. “Eh, not too many, about a good two dozen or so, though I know there's more out there.”

Two dozen? That doesn't seem like a lot... “Well, I'm just asking because Mindy didn't say anything about-”

“Heeeey!” you're interrupted by someone- a guy with strangely blue hair. He hauls himself off a rather plush couch nearby, now that you turn to look at him. The room itself looks pretty furnished; even has carpeting and some old school arcade games in the corner- and it's a pretty big room. “Gummy gums, who you got there?” He's tall, lanky, and doesn't seem like he's got much a care in the world. With a pale face that nonetheless is crinkled with amusement, he saunters up to you casually. “Sup, dude?”

“Hey, Shivers. Got a newbie here, just needs to know what's what. Figured we'd get him settled in,” she explains. “Newbie- Kyle? This is Shivers. Shivers, Kyle.”

“Pft, 'Kyle'? Haven't thought about your Midname yet, huh?” He asks amusedly.

Not that you'd ever heard that term. “Midname? Like middle name?”

“Nah, nah, MIDname. Mutant Identification. Like a codename so if anyone suspect or, uh, 'disapprovin' comes lookin' for us they don't get to track us down by name. What, you think my name's actually 'Shivers'?”

“...point,” you admit. “So, you just...come up with one?”

“Yeah! We do a buncha stuff, so it's probably better to do it sooner than later. Like, I can drop temperature of stuff. So, 'Shivers'. Get it?” He shrugs. “Not the most creative, but usually it's good to have something easy to remember or snappy.”

“It's up to you, though,” another voice comes- and this one you recognize. You turn around to see Mindy, smiling and looking you up and down. “Glad to see you made it. I'd just headed upstairs to get a couple things done real quick. Just got in?”

“Yeah,” you acknowledge. “Took a bit to find it, but here I am.”

She nods, and walks past you to plop down on the nearby couch. “Glad to have ya. Gummy tell you what we do here aside from hang out?”

“Yeah, something about outreach and protection,” you admit.

“Bingo. I think you'd be a big help if you wanted to,” she says easily as she leans back. “Don't haveta make up your mind just now, though. Take some time, enjoy yourself. We got drinks!”

“Uh, just water for me, thanks...” you wave off as you try to settle down. Maybe this won't be horrible? Knock on wood?

The next few days are...well, pretty alright. You get to know a couple new people- Gummy Bear's skill is plasticity. She can 'bounce' and hop like nothing else, electricity doesn't hurt her as much, and in general she can soak damage like nothing else. Shivers is obviously cool in more ways than one, as he said. He's very much a steady ear despite his lazy attitude, and he kinda reminds you of an opposite Jaime. The two that'd came in before you? Twins(!) Deja and Vu, both with limited audio-visual perception manipulation- scary but cool.

(1/2)

>>4594765
You're not asked to do much of anything, no, but on occasion Gummy Bear will pop in, and mention...something. Some sort of code, like 'Code Orange down on Ackers', or 'Fat Lip out at the park,' and one or two will leave for an hour or so, then come back. You'd thought the latter was a mutant, but no, just a term. You had no clue what happened out there, but they didn't bring it up and you didn't really feel it was right to ask.

But, it's one afternoon after you're chilling from school a couple weeks later that Mindy herself pops her head in. “Hey, we got a- oh. Only one in here, huh?” Mindy frowns. “Well...hm. Think you can help a gal out? I got wind there's an issue going on near Red Hill. Mind coming with me to check it out?”

That wasn't expected. And Red Hill wasn't very far. “Issue? What could I do?”

“An outreach and protection thing,” she said, shrugging. “Some guys being stupid. I'm pretty sure I can handle it, but I just need you to stand there and kinda be an example piece, okay? Think you can do me a solid?”

>I suppose so. Why not, right?
>I dunno. Didn't really sign up for this.
>Write-In

>>4594767
>>I dunno. Didn't really sign up for this.

>>4594767
>>I dunno. Didn't really sign up for this.

>>4594767
>I dunno. Didn't really sign up for this.
hmmmmMMMMM

>>4594767
>I suppose so. Why not, right?

>>4594767
>>4594770
>>4594777
>>4594778
Being honest? That sounds nerve-wracking. Sure, you could end up looking super cool...but it could also be incredibly painful if something went wrong. Still, before you can think more on it, the words are out of your mouth: “I dunno. Didn't really sign up for this...”

Fortunately, she doesn't seem to take much offense- though you can see her lips pull down. “Alright, was just hoping. In that case, please, as soon as anyone else comes in, if I'm not back in like, a half hour, tell them there's a Blue Markup at Red Hill, please?”

“Yeah, sure thing.” You can do that much, at least...

She leaves without much else fanfare, and you, blessedly, return to seeing if you can beat your high score in Galaxy Runner. Classics never die for a reason.

About thirty minutes later, you hear a knocking and the door open- it's Gummy Bear. “Yo, dude. Just you in here?”

“Yup. Mindy came by just about a half-hour ago, though. Said there was a, uh... 'Blue Markup at Red Hill' and sounded like she wanted backup.”

And then Gummy's eyes goggle for a second, like you'd told her something bad. “What?! Ah, shit...alright, I'm going. Stay here and if anyone asks, tell them the same!”

“Wait, hold on, what's so-” Nope. She's out the door. Geez, she's fast when she wants to be. You do catch her racing out the door and rounding a corner in record time, headed towards Red Hill as her legs extend, almost using them like springs to get up to higher ground. She seemed a lot more concerned about the issue than Mindy did. You kinda hope nothing bad's happening...

...although that rumble that just sounded in the distance doesn't sound good at all.

>Try to catch up to her. If this is bad, well...you kinda don't want that on your conscience.
>Keep out of this. None of your business. Whatever happens, happens.
>You should at least maybe head to the area, keep tabs on it- maybe without getting involved if your lucky.
>Write-In

>>4595810
>Try to catch up to her. If this is bad, well...you kinda don't want that on your conscience.

>>4595810
>You should at least maybe head to the area, keep tabs on it- maybe without getting involved if your lucky.

I'm a bit late for a proper run, but I'll try and be back much earlier tomorrow.

>>4595810
>You should at least maybe head to the area, keep tabs on it- maybe without getting involved if your lucky.

>>4595810
>>You should at least maybe head to the area, keep tabs on it- maybe without getting involved if your lucky.

>>4595810
>You should at least maybe head to the area, keep tabs on it- maybe without getting involved if your lucky.

Writing!

>>4595810
>>4595819
>>4595956
>>4596255
>>4596294
Eegh...might as well try to do something about it. If nothing else you can at least make sure things don't get too insane out there. You could probably do SOMETHING. If only keeping tabs on things. “Can't believe I'm doing this...”

Your approach is well warranted when you arrive there- there's a massive plume of smoke that goes up nearby after some travel, along with a shout of what you're pretty sure is pain nearby. You race forward, and you quickly see the source- a building that seems to be on fire?! There's a massive amount of smoke curling from the place- it looks like a two story...you're not sure what it is, but it's some sort of business building.

A body flies out of the smoke, and yeah, that's pain alright- on the part of Mindy, from the looks of it.

You're quick to race over to her as she slams into a wall. “Ugghg...”

“You okay?” you ask immediately.

“I'm...I'll be okay. Arson...wrecking...” She takes a deep breath, before slumping down. “Gonna be...bad if they...”

She's interrupted when suddenly a burst of air comes up and you can see a figure coming out. It's...masked, you think. No, not masked, just...covered. You can barely tell they're human just by it, judging by all the chitin. Makes you think of a bug...a very tall and lithe bug.

A couple more bursts, and more bug(?) people- with wings?! Flying!? What's going on here...? They look like...two of them have big beetle-like shells on their backs, one a moth's wings, one a bee's coloration and some sharp looking shoulders...and one, the leader, maybe? You can't place that one at all. Hercules Beetle, maybe?

A massive, stretchy hand reaches out of the gloom, and before you can blink, manages to grab one of them bodily...and then the bug-person begins to fly up, twist around...something slimes out of their before rubberhand – Gummi Bear, you're pretty sure- has to let go. You can see...something...in their hand, but you can't make it out...

And then they race off- flying through the night, and you can see Gummi limping out of the building. Half of her clothes are burnt off, and she's looking bloody and a bit worse for wear. "Shit, shit, shit...we need to get out of here...like, now!" But she stumbles, and drops to a knee. "Shit..."

And that's when you see vans, racing up to the scene. Black, unmarked. Not police. And they don't look friendly.

>Roll 1d100, best of three! Independent from your choice here.

>Help Mindy. She's the leader of whatever this is, and seems to have a clue, Gummi'll be fine.
>Help Gummi. She's in better shape and you've got a better chance of getting away with her.
>Write-In

Rolled 100 (1d100)

>>4596805

>>Help Mindy. She's the leader of whatever this is, and seems to have a clue, Gummi'll be fine.

LUCKLUCKLUCKLUCKLUCK

>>4596840
...

...

how

File: c6f.png (374 KB, 600x624)

374 KB PNG

>>4596843
>>4596840

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>4596805
>Help Mindy. She's the leader of whatever this is, and seems to have a clue, Gummi'll be fine.
>>4596840
holy shit anon
>>4596843
good bless, OP

Rolled 69 (1d100)

>>4596840
>>Help Mindy. She's the leader of whatever this is, and seems to have a clue, Gummi'll be fine.
o shit

>>4596840
>100
>>4596863
>69

blessed dice

Yeah, I'll write and hopefully not take nearly as long.

>>4596805
>>4596840
>>4596858
>>4596863
>>4596863
You're practically moving on instinct now; you scoop up the fallen Mindy and immediately throw a vine towards an outcropped lamppost- it's enough to get you moving, and with Mindy slung over your shoulder (thank you, super strength) you haul yourselves up and towards the roof of the small building across the street. Gummy's a nice girl, and she's capable of getting up, you think. Hopefully she'll be able to get away, herself.

You manage to practically throw the pair of you across roofs, through alleyways, trying not to jostle her too much. If you're going to lose them, going straight back to the hideout would be idiotic. Now, where to go...?

You're struggling to consider where to go, when you hear a cough. “Ugghh...where...?”

“Trying to get away,” you quickly respond. “Glad you're up. You know anywhere to go that isn't obvious?”

“...Southside...” she mutters. “the old tracks...”

Ah. You know where that is. A couple years ago the trains got an overhaul, and part of it was making some new track above where the old ones used to be. Thanks to budget issues, the old tracks never got filled in, though. They've been abandoned to 'we'll get around to it eventually' limbo for City Hall since. Few head down there anymore- not even homeless; it's too torn up and prone to flooding.

It'll work for you for now, though.


You manage to get there, and for now it doesn't seem like anyone managed to track you. Which is good. No rain, thank goodness- place is relatively dry. You manage to find a decently clean place to lay her- she doesn't seem like she's too busted up, but you have no clue about internal injuries. “Thanks...” she breathes out. “Just...lemme settle myself...I'll...heal up fine.” She takes her time to breath in deeply, and you swear you can see a subtle pink hue in her skin now- something glowing, not natural. Still, in the quiet and gloom, you're wondering now just what's going on here, even as she does something to herself to recover.

After a few minutes, she seems a bit more put together. “Right...sorry about that. But thanks. I'll be okay for...well, for a little bit.” She yawns deeply. “Aaaugh...gonna nod off soon, though...that always takes it outta me...”

Right...well, you've got a few things on your mind...but what to ask.

>What ARE her powers exactly?
>Who were those weird bug people?
>What were you trying to protect?
>There were some black vans coming...Gummi Bear was still there.
>Write-In

>>4596920
>>Who were those weird bug people?
>There were some black vans coming...Gummi Bear was still there.

>>4596920
>There were some black vans coming...Gummi Bear was still there.
>What were you trying to protect?

>>4596923
+1

>>4596920
>Who were those weird bug people?
>What were you trying to protect?
Eventually we should probably reveal that we know more is going on here, from our eavesdropping.

OP?

>>4596920
>>4596923
>>4596952
>>4596970
>>4597066

“Okay, then, first question,” you start off quickly. “Who were those weird bug people?”

She groans. “Not sure...think they were...some kinda mutant supremacist group. Called themselves...The Hive...losers.” She tries to laugh, but it comes out as a yawn instead; she's fading fast. “Took...data...” Okay, good, but-

“Hey, look, there were some black vans coming...Gummi Bear was still there,” you admit. “I dunno if she made it out...”

“Damn...FutureLabs...” she manages to slur out, and your heart skips a beat. What'd they want?! “Dunwantus...walkinnn...” But you can't get anymore out of her- she's out like a light. You even try and give her a few light slaps just to check. Nope. Out cold.

Damn. Alright, then. You've got to figure out what to do with her. And you've got to be quiet about it. Maybe you could just chill out here overnight? It's not exactly your preferred option, but it'll be quiet for certain. Then again, you might be able to bring her home if you're lucky. Your sister is usually out and your pop's likely going to be stuck in his work. Mom's off on another one of her long distance jobs- Helena Parris's ecological mission stops for no one. Except her kids when they're sick.

Either way, you're not sure you can just go back to the hideout...can you? Judging from some of the social media from your phone...huh, no. Seems like no one got a real good look at anything or anyone. Too much chaos, too much shakycam and partial shots for the few that dared to try and film. You might've gotten real lucky there...

Still, you need to make a decision.

>Call Jamie to make an excuse for you. You'll owe him one for camping out here.
>Try your luck going back to the hideout. It's the safest place for her, really.
>Maybe your house? It's not empty, but it's not like you haven't snuck in and out before...
>Write-In

(Was just busy, is all.)

>>4599493
>>Call Jamie to make an excuse for you. You'll owe him one for camping out here.

>>4599493
>Call Jamie to make an excuse for you. You'll owe him one for camping out here.
If you're busy for multiple days, it'd be great if you could give a heads up. I've been burned on too many one-thread quests.

>>4599533
Fair. I'm not one to quit so easily, at least.

>>4599493
>Try your luck going back to the hideout. It's the safest place for her, really.

>>4599493
>>4599501
>>4599501
>>4599533
Gah. No, it's probably best you called Jamie. He's the best (also only) guy you know who'd reliably take you at your word and make up an alibi for you regardless of the reason. He's just like that. Even though he'll probably try to grill you up and down about it later. “Hello?”

Right, well...here goes. “Hey, I need you to do me a big favor...”


...Alright. You have to help with his English paper, you're buying him the next 5 releases of the Galactica Girls comic book, and you're helping him redo some work on some arcade sticks he wants to fix up, but you have your alibi. According to you and him, he'd dragged you over to help with some drone project and you'd crashed there overnight.

The rest of the day was basically you getting to-go boxes of Chinese food and a burger. You dunno how hungry she'll be when she wakes up, but just in case. Fortunately, no one seems to want to take shelter here tonight, either, and you have a pretty quiet night.

Come morning, however, you hear a familiar voice. “Hellooooo? Anyone down here?” Huh? No way...

“Gummy? That you?” your voice bounces around, but that DOES sound familiar. And sure enough, the stretching girl comes into view in short order- her shirt's a little torn up, but she doesn't actually look much the worse for wear- though she lets out a sigh of relief that literally causes her to sag. “Oh thank goodness. I was just going to ask if any hobos had seen you or her, but I'll take the genuine article any day.”

“How'd you get away from the vans?” you ask.

“Adrenaline and miscommunication, mostly,” she admits. “Had to stay on the run for most of the day and a lot of the night, but...I made it. And so did you two, looks like.” She spares Mindy a concerned look. “Although maybe I should be making sure of that...”

“She used some kinda healing power earlier...” you mention.

“Oh, good,” Gummy notes. “Then she should be alright. At least...for now.”

“What happened back there?” you ask. “I asked earlier and only got something about The Hive, they took some data, and FutureLabs...”

She nods, solemnly. “Right...okay, so...might as well be honest since you were right there. Look, FutureLabs isn't keen on mutants roaming around. It's...it's really not the best look for them. And we'd gotten word that they'd been trying for a big, well...purge, sorta. A lot of mutants have been arrested or taken in under the pretense of them being dangerous or trying to 'cure' them. Running a big con game to get them under their control. But they're lying.”

...Oh. Oh shit. “Lying? Lying how?”

(1/2)

>>4599664
“Dunno,” she admits, to your immense disappointment. “We only had a little insider info before our source went quiet. But we know that they're not being treated well behind FutureLabs' walls. Might be tortured...might be worse.” Her voice is grave. “But they ain't our friends. And what just got stolen was proof. Accidental proof, I think. But proof nonetheless.”

“Wait, what?” But then... “Why'd those bug guys steal it, then? Are they planning on showing it?”

She shakes her head. “Nah...not from what I heard them say.”

Weird. “And what was that?”

“That they'd 'have control' with it,” she explains. “I think...I think they might try to use it as blackmail or something. For what, I don't know, but it's nothing good. We've got to stop them, AND deal with FutureLabs, somehow.” And she looks at you with a grim smile. “And I dunno if anyone caught us on video...but I know they're gonna be on the lookout now. Especially for anyone with plant powers.

Well, shit.

"On the plus side, they still have no clue where our hideout is!" she tries to cheerfully explain (and fails). "On the downside, they're gonna be real pissy whenever we show our faces, so we're gonna have to be way more careful. That includes you."

Well, maybe you can just hole up in your house with your mom and dad and maybe- wait.

Your dad. Your dad that works AT FUTURELABS.

Shit. Gonna have to be REAL careful about that...but is he really involved with this? You can't imagine your fun-loving, scatterbrained dad being an evil scientist...he's a goofy scientist! Still... "I'll try."

"It also means we're gonna have to step our game up of keeping the peace between mutants," she furthers. "I hate to say it, but things might be getting a bit more tense around here..." she sighs. "You might wanna take up some kinda self-defense classes or something. Just to be safe."

Well...shit.

Then again, you always dug boxing...

(2/3 Misjudged one's length, sorry.)

>>4599666
The next couple of months were...distressing, to say the least. It seemed as though whatever was happening, that issue had been the lynchpin. Several more mutant attacks, many defended by mutants, others by normal folks, and all of them stressful. The streets weren't nearly as safe to walk as they used to be, and you'd actually decided to follow Gummy's advice on taking up fighting classes. The cheapest was a boxing school ran by a guy who claimed himself to be a former Golden Glove contender...not that he ever specified beyond that. Still, the workout was good fun, and keeping up with your studies online proved oddly easier. Maybe the increased blood flow or something? Either way, as the days and weeks went on after that, you'd...

>Kept to yourself and your family. They wanted to handle the whole protect the city thing, they could do that themselves.
>Tried to help out here and there with the whole 'keeping the city from going nuts' thing. You kinda felt guilty about before, anyway...
>Focused specifically on any FutureLabs incidents, nothing else. You just wanted them not hurting innocent people.
>Focused specifically on finding out anything about these 'Hive' creeps. They're the key to all this, so if you can nail THEM to the wall...
>Write-In

>>4599667
>Focused specifically on finding out anything about these 'Hive' creeps. They're the key to all this, so if you can nail THEM to the wall...

>>4599667
>>Focused specifically on any FutureLabs incidents, nothing else. You just wanted them not hurting innocent people.

>>4599667
>Focused specifically on any FutureLabs incidents, nothing else. You just wanted them not hurting innocent people.

>>4599667
>Focused specifically on finding out anything about these 'Hive' creeps. They're the key to all this, so if you can nail THEM to the wall...

>>4599667
>4599667

>>4600283
>>4599667

>Focused specifically on any FutureLabs incidents, nothing else. You just wanted them not hurting innocent people.
>Focused specifically on finding out anything about these 'Hive' creeps. They're the key to all this, so if you can nail THEM to the wall...

Back, and tied. I can work with this, but giving about a half hour to let anyone else chime in while I eat.

>>4599667
>Focused specifically on finding out anything about these 'Hive' creeps. They're the key to all this, so if you can nail THEM to the wall...

Gonna try to figure out how to squash these bugs, then.

Writing!

>>4599667
>>4599674
>>4600272
>>4600291
>>4600490
Tried to focus on finding out anything about these 'Hive' creeps. While they could deal with playing hero between other mutants and FutureLabs, you're more worried about them, since they seemed to be instigators of the whole thing. At least, that's how it looked to you. The way they acted and how FutureLabs was right behind them, and all.

In between online classes, you'd done web searches, talked to friends, and generally tried to dig up what you could. Jamie was another big help here (in between you doing your owed work for him), if only because his natural attitude made him believe you pretty quickly that you suspected something was off with them- without explaining why. “Right, so here's what I've managed to dig up- and it's more solid than the aliens thing, I PROMISE.” ...yeah, he tends to follow a lot of stupid theories, to be honest. You're just glad he's slow to actually ACT on anything. Loves to 'know', haaaates to 'do'. “So, if you look up the history of FutureLabs, you'll see that they've been big on that particle thing for a while, yeah? There's a rumor that there might be something MORE happening. Something real messed up. And these Hive guys? On the payroll. They're FutureLabs' cleaners.”

You cock an eyebrow. “Iiinteresting. Then why'd they steal from a FutureLabs contracted building?”

“To throw off the trail!” he exclaims. “It's a false flag op!” He pauses. “Well, might be! Either way, point is they're under orders is what the ol' tea leaves are saying.” Is he even using that saying right? Regardless...it's something. You know they've been messing around with assaults on certain mutants here and there- Mindy's group seemed to try to aid in corralling them...hit and miss, though.

Which is where you came in. “Thanks.”

“That's not all, though,” he says excitedly. “I did some plotting and checked any and all video I could get my hands on. There's a trend in escape direction, too.”

“Oh?” THAT sounds important. “Where to?”

“Northwest of the city,” he says. “They almost always flee in that direction. They might have a base of operations there.”

Well, then. That's interesting... “Nice.”

“Yeah! I'm not sure if anyone knows yet, but I'm thinking this plus a bit more will make for a SWEET tip to the cops. There's reward money for this kinda thing, y'know?” Although he frowns. “But then again, might not be the best idea since they got the local head honcho of FutureLabs backing it.”

(1/2)

>>4600700
“Wait, is there?” You hadn't heard that...then again, you weren't the most devoted news watcher...

“Yup.” He types a name in, and shows you a picture. “Alice McGruder, Chief Director of Warington's FutureLabs operations.” She's a platinum blonde (talk about defying stereotypes), with a slime, sharp face, a set of square glasses and piercing green eyes in her director's suit. She's on a stage, speaking out of a podium. “This just happened a few days ago. I think you were trying to study for that exam.”

“Ladies and gentlemen,” she begins, and her voice is smooth and with a calming tenor, and slight accent. “I stand before you today to reassure you of the safety and security of your people. Tirelessly, our FutureLabs Security Operatives, with the permission of your fair mayor, have been working around the clock to locate any unfortunate souls taken by mutation, and have been unceasingly devoted to determining the cause of such issues and remedying them. The road is and will be harsh. Long. But we can and will persevere. Already we have made great strides in such work, and we will have more to say soon. But know that we ARE looking out for humanity's best interests. We are currently offering a cash reward of $2,000 for any verifiable tip that leads to the arrest of any dangerous mutant individuals in the area. We-”

The image freezes as he pauses it there. “Bam. A lot of people are suspect, though. They don't have the best track record right now.”

"So...what do we do?" and ain't THAT the question.

He shrugs. "Iunno. I'mma hold onto this info for a bit. Why'd you want to know about it, anyway?" Ah. NOW he asks.

"Safety, really," you say, and in a way it's true...

...he just won't know that you're going to be taking a few late evening walks for a while. Around the northwest part of the city, that is.

>Roll 1d100, best of three.

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>4600703

Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>4600703

Rolled 52 (1d100)

>>4600703
the plot thickens

Writing!

>>4600703
>>4600706
>>4600716
>>4600732
The place is starting to get familiar. You'd been roaming around the northwest section of the place for a week or two, now. Nothing Hive related, unfortunately, but you'd seen that the place commonly considered the 'rich people' part of town had just as much of a mutant issue as anywhere else. Possibly more. You'd decided to check around and to your surprise, the place seemed like one of the harder hit areas. Guess it made for a tempting target. FutureLabs also seemed to have a presence around here, too- you'd seen their vans more than once and was forced to scurry away.

That's never not annoying.

Tonight seems like it's not going to be much different, however. At least, that's what you figure after you alight on a rooftop and take out your water bottle. No one chitinous to spot, at least. You'd occasionally tried your hand at the whole 'saving folks' thing, particularly when those damn black vans came around, but it really wasn't your major bag. You've got a goal in mind, and you're focused on accomplishing it.

Which is why when at first you hear a stranger's yell nearby- before suddenly being cut off- you don't think it's anything, related to you...but, eh. You're right there. You can at least take a peek.

It's maybe a roofhop and a peek down into an alley- a very clean one, being honest. But it's also where you see someone with some rather...eccentric air. He's got a rather nice looking suit jacket and strange leather pants, but his undershirt is more of a mesh thing. Really doesn't match well. His hair is slicked back and red, but the worst is his eyes...smoking and dark, from your perspective. Creepy. So's the hand that's covering the, judging by the pantsuit, businesswoman's mouth as she shivers in fear. “Now, now...probably best you stay quiet. After all, can't have anyone worrying about our little...meeting.”

Great. Someone being extra creepy. Now, how are you going to...

“Now, about my little collection...” Huh? “Let's not beat around the bush. You have something that my buggy friends are quite interested in, soo...if you don't mind...” Bugs? Is this Hive related?

The woman shakes her head, clearly frightened. But you can tell he's not going to take that for an answer. Indeed, his eyes start lighting up, and you have to make a decision.

>Vine up the girl and start running. You're not one for a fight, not now.
>Nope, you're going to drop this loser. You don't want him being creepy later on to YOU.
>It'd be cruel, but...leave it alone, see if maybe he leads you somewhere else.
>Write-In

(I really thought I'd posted, sorry.)

>>4602142
>It'd be cruel, but...leave it alone, see if maybe he leads you somewhere else.

>>4602142
>>Nope, you're going to drop this loser. You don't want him being creepy later on to YOU.

We'll cream this guy's clock and interrogate him

>>4602142
>Nope, you're going to drop this loser. You don't want him being creepy later on to YOU.

Writing!

>>4602142
>>4602149
>>4602236
Hmm...yeah, no. Creepy is as creepy does, and creepy is still creepy. You wouldn't want him creepin' on you, so down he will go. Besides, been a bit since you've had a proper brawl...if it even comes down to that, anyway. You've built up some decent muscle the past few months, not to mention the vines and whatnot are good for you, too. Now, you just need to make sure he doesn't sense anything wrong before you get the chance to jump him...

Your vines thicken, grown, and slither down. Hopefully the lady'll be fine...

>Roll 1d100, best of three for surprising a creepo.

Rolled 89 (1d100)

>>4602314

Strangle and wrangle em!

Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>4602314
now seems like a good time to ask about crit policy

>>4602349
Okay, so how I'm thinking I'm going to work crits actually? A bit different. Negative crits don't override, but positive crits do. However, negative crits will always add an extra complication to the situation. For this, negative crits are anywhere from 1-10. I think that's fair without ruining people's day.

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>4602314

>>4602315
He creeps, but we creep better.

>>4602370
Sounds interesting. Near impossible to truly negative crit, but extra complications will be fairly frequent. Positive crits are still just nat 100?

>>4602397
Mhm.

>>4602314
>>4602315
>>4602349
>>4602371
You've been practicing more than boxing, after all- something like this shouldn't be too much of an issue- and indeed, while he's able to look up in time, that doesn't mean he's able to MOVE in time. Before he can appreciably react, he's tangled head and shoulders in a mass of strong vines- even his mouth's covered before he can say much. Grand. Now, you don't have much in the way of identity security, but you at least have a sort of mask to help. It's not really much more than a latex 'treant' mask you'd gotten shipped from a Halloween store, but it hides your eyes and most of your face, which is pretty important.

Now, you don't want to say anything that'd give you away, but you can see that the lady is clearly shocked. She's quick to realize her good fortune, however, and she sprints away as he struggles against his bonds. Really glad that apparently the dude can't go intangible or anything like that- you were kinda worried that'd be the case. But as the lady sprints away, he can't do anything but-

-tug VERY hard, apparently; your balance is lost, and you nearly fall over the railing as he tries to force his captor down. Geez, this guy's stronger than he looks...!

But no, you're going to deal with him on YOUR terms. Which is why you set your other arm and vines steady, and rappel down to land in front of him. His eyes are red and smoke's coming out of the few places that are open, but it's unfocused, raw. You've got him where you want him for now- but that might not be for very long.

And then he lashes out with a smokey foot, and that causes you to have to jump aside as a blast of said smoke lashes at where you just were, your bindings coming frayed! Shit, he's serious about this now- you've got to act fast!

>Take the chance while you can and laying into him with a few speedy jabs.
>Lash up his legs, fast! You can't let him keep trying to kick your head off!
>It'll probably snap them outright, but a good solid slam ought to ring his bell!
>Write-In

>>4602533
>Lash up his legs, fast! You can't let him keep trying to kick your head off!

>>4602533
>>It'll probably snap them outright, but a good solid slam ought to ring his bell!

This guy seems like the punchable type.

>>4602533
>It'll probably snap them outright, but a good solid slam ought to ring his bell!

>>4602533
>It'll probably snap them outright, but a good solid slam ought to ring his bell!

>>4602533
>It'll probably snap them outright, but a good solid slam ought to ring his bell!

>>4602533
>It'll probably snap them outright, but a good solid slam ought to ring his bell!

We can just regrow them, we're vine man.

>>4602533
>>4602555
>>4602568
>>4602787
>>4602807
>>4602939
You don't have a lot of time to act, and at any rate, you're not one to keep things going too long- you want to get this done and dusted ASAP. Meaning that this is gonna hurt. For him, anyway.

He barely has time to squeal as you pivot, spin once, slinging him around, and hurl him into the ground. Most mutants you've noticed seem to have some level of increased durability, so you're not exceptionally worried about hurting him too severely. When he lands with a smokey thud, the impact snapping the vines entirely, the groan and swearing tells you he's at least still conscious. Enough to stir and try to get loose, anyway.

You don't have much inclination to let him, however, which is why you pin him to the ground, courtesy of sticking your arms in and growing some nice, strong roots to hold him- especially around the throat. You're starting to get a bit parched, really... “I've got questions,” you rasp a bit. Not intentional, but it'll help. “You've got answers.” You tear off the vine covering his mouth, and...

“Who the fuck?! What the fuck was that for?” He half-yells. “You just butt into everyone's business on the regular?”

“No, now shut up and listen.” You tighten your grip. “No points for guessing what happens if you don't. Now...”

>Ask who that was that he was trying to mug and what for.
>Ask just why is he working for The Hive?
>Ask what kinds of rumors he's heard around FutureLabs.
>Write-In

>>4603513
>>Ask who that was that he was trying to mug and what for.

She had something the Hive wanted, didn't she?

>>4603518
+1

>>4603513
>Ask just why is he working for The Hive?

Asking about who the heck. Writing!

>>4603513
>>4603518
>>4603525

“So. Who was that you were trying to put the moves on? Putting and failing, I should note.” Alright, probably not the best way to put it, but you can't help it sometimes. “Sounded like you wanted something she wasn't willing to give.”

“Tch. Like I'm telling you,” your captive snarks. “Not unless you got a wallet you're willing to open.”

Huh. Interesting response. “You're getting paid off?”

“You say that like there's any other reason I'd pal around with those creepy crawlies,” he scoffs.

“Right...so, you're not really friends with them then,” you muse. That'll make it harder to convince him.

“No duh. So like I said, unless you're gonna splash some cash, you might as well- ghlk!”

“I COULD just leave you here for the cops. Or for FutureLabs,” you note. “I'm sure you've heard the rumors...”

“...asshole,” he mutters. “Her name's Jenna Langston. And it's just a flash drive, hell. Don't even know what's on it, just that she's got it and they want it. Not even a big deal, nothin' to do with your ass. Hell, probably better they get it than she keep it.” Huh. Flash drive? Well, he's not wrong in that whatever's on it has to be good. But in The Hive's hands? “Now let me up and leave me the hell alone! I need to get that damn thing so I can get paid!”

You don't know if that's the best idea, all things considered. That said, you can hear some sort of siren...and it's coming closer.

>Leave him here anyway as a distraction. Those roots won't die for a few hours. You can go after the lady in the meantime.
>Let him up- FutureLabs won't be long in claiming him if the police or anyone else get their hands on him.
>Write-In

>>4603656
>Let him up- FutureLabs won't be long in claiming him if the police or anyone else get their hands on him.
don't want a free gift to them and the guy was just a common thief

>>4603656
>>Let him up- FutureLabs won't be long in claiming him if the police or anyone else get their hands on him.

Gonna go ahead with this. Writing!

>>4603656
>>Let him up- FutureLabs won't be long in claiming him if the police or anyone else get their hands on him.

>>4603656
>Let him up- FutureLabs won't be long in claiming him if the police or anyone else get their hands on him.

>>4603656
>>4603664
>>4603668
>>4603812
>>4603819
Bah. You don't like the idea of FutureLabs getting their hands on anyone else. You're not really that kind of person, honestly. Who knows what they'd do to him.

The roots split and slip away, and the creep shoots up. “Geez, make a guy sweat, whydontcha!? Iunno what the hell you're askin' for, but you better keep an eye out, pal.” The 'pal' is so sarcastically said it nearly hurts. “Especially since they're gonna be asking for a REASON I couldn't get the goods.”

“Better that than FutureLabs getting another mutant in their hands,” you say begrudgingly. You're REALLY not looking forwards to the attention. “But if I catch you doing this kinda thing again-”

“You can try, green thumb!” He taunts as he darts off. You need to do the same, too, as the sirens are getting closer. The police won't find any mutants nearby tonight.

Still, you at least have a name. Jenna Langston. Although you take a look around, you surprisingly can't seem to find her anywhere near. It wasn't that long ago she ran off. Maybe she lives nearby? Or maybe she found somewhere to duck into or something. Either way, she's not on the streets.

...You have no idea if that's good or bad, at this rate. But she's being targeted, so you're going to have to keep an eye out.

The rest of the night is relatively peaceful- nothing about The Hive, and you need to get to bed soon enough.

(1/2)

>>4603829
The next few days are similar- without the smoky creep's appearance, mind. There's a few more stories going on about various mutant happenings, a lot of worry and talking head programs you more or less ignore. Some lauding of how FutureLabs is handling it, how the city is divided at best on how to deal with mutants, blah blah blah. Not exactly safe to show yourself to the public, you could say. But in the meantime, there's Mindy's group still out there, 'fighting the good fight', apparently. You hadn't spoken with them since the incident, but it might be worth heading back to see, sometime.

Your mom's made it back, which is nice. You don't spend much time with her as it is, so it's nice to see her again. She was out for an early morning grocery run. Jessica, your sister, had gone with. Your dad's been...well, if you're being honest, he's been at home a lot more. Still employed, he assures you, just something about being reassigned to a project that's not ready for him yet. “In fact,” he says with a bit more of a smile one day at breakfast, “I know we haven't spent much time as a family recently. So I'm thinking we all head out one day! Remember the zoo? You used to love that place. That or the Aquarium, or maybe even that play place you used to like...what was it called?”

“Yodel's?” you half laugh. “Dad, I haven't been there since I was like, twelve!”

“Aw, you loved the pizza, though!” he grins. Your dad... “And I know Jessica's been feeling like we could use some 'refreshment as a family', in her words. So, anyway, I was thinking we'd let you pick the place!”

Huh...well, that sounds nice of him! Let's see...

>You'd heard there was a showcase at the art museum tomorrow that kinda might be neat. One of those interactive exhibit things, something about make your own 3d ink art, among others. Sounded cool, anyway.
>You DID like the aquarium back in the day. Why not relive some old times? You hope they still have that dolphin show...that was always the highlight, honestly.
>The zoo WAS always fun when you were younger. And they HAD revamped it. Your mom works there on occasion. Could maybe get you some choice closeups...

Done for the night. I'll be back tomorrow! Hopefully early!

>>4603830
>>The zoo WAS always fun when you were younger. And they HAD revamped it. Your mom works there on occasion. Could maybe get you some choice closeups...

>>4603830
>You'd heard there was a showcase at the art museum tomorrow that kinda might be neat. One of those interactive exhibit things, something about make your own 3d ink art, among others. Sounded cool, anyway.

>>4603830
>The zoo WAS always fun when you were younger. And they HAD revamped it. Your mom works there on occasion. Could maybe get you some choice closeups...

>>4603830
>You DID like the aquarium back in the day. Why not relive some old times? You hope they still have that dolphin show...that was always the highlight, honestly.

Writing shortly! Also decided on a tripcode.

>>4603830
>>4603836
>>4603844
“Well...I do like the zoo, yeah. In fact, didn't they just finish with a lot of work on it?” you note. It was always a childhood thing of yours. You loved looking at the animals and even petting some on occasion. Suppose you got that from your mom, really.

“Yup!” He seems happy. “Just finished some new reptile enclosures, and a few more besides! Supposed to be as close to their natural habitats as possible. Even had new feeding stations and all that stuff- but your mom would be able to answer better than me.” Yeah, considering she's worked there on and off, you don't doubt it.

A day later, you find yourself in the car, next to your sister, who's only somewhat pouting. Apparently, she'd been hoping to find herself in the museum. “For inspiration,” she'd said, although she refused to elaborate for what.

Your mom was more than happy- she hadn't been by the zoo in a while, and in her words? “It'll be good to make sure they actually kept to my recommendations and didn't try to cut corners again.” Bold, your mom is.

After arriving, you're pleased to see the place is as busy as ever. There's young children practically dragging their parents around, young adults enjoying the exhibits...it's nice. Makes you feel like you were a child again.

The big cats were always fun to watch, especially when feeding time came. And the peacocks were always entertaining. You never were sure why you liked them so much, but you did! They were colorful and funny looking. Still are, when you get around to them.

Overall, it's about an hour before you all decide to take a rest. Even Jessica seems to be enjoying herself- or at least she enjoyed the birds. “Well, I've been having a great time,” your mom admits with a wide smile. “What about you all?”

“It's been great, hun,” Dad comments. “I'm just glad that I missed getting spit on...” Yeeeaah, he'd had a close encounter with a llama. Your dad could be nimble when he was desperate.

“It's been okay,” Jessica admits. “I heard there was a show going on later?”

Your mom's eyes light up. “Oh, yeah! In the amphitheater! Do you want to go? I might be able to get us backstage- with all the animals.” She waggles her eyebrows, which just looks weird, but you're not going to say anything to that.

Instead, you just agree. “Sure!”

“Guess it's decided, then,” your dad cheers. “When is it?”

“Should be starting in about thirty minutes,” she notes. “We should get going, get some good seats.”

This is gonna be great. You hope, anyway. Nothing worse than a boring show.

>Roll 1d100, best of three.

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>4604414
I hope this isn't an ambush roll or secret attack

Rolled 10 (1d100)

>>4604414

ANIMAL MUTANTS LETS FUCKING GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

>>4604437

oh crap.

Gonna go ahead and write.

Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>4604414
>>4604428
>>4604437
>>4604552
Ultimately, the show is...well, it was probably pretty good when you were younger. The animals were still cool to see, for sure. Buuuuut...

...well, maybe your childhood is being seen through rose-tinted glasses. There's a lot less action going on than you thought- it's mostly showing off various animals like falcons- although that IS cool. There's a moment where a child is brought on stage and shown a real life gator- stuck in a pond, mind, and assured he won't leave and is docile. The kid actually tries to waddle to it, clearly to pet it- only to get grabbed by the host VERY quickly and informed to PLEASE not do that.

It's otherwise...unfortunately kinda dull. You'd kinda hoped for better.

...and that's when you hear a massive cacophony- and the man pauses to put his hand to his communicator in his ear. His eyes widen, and suddenly he speaks up in a loud voice. “Er, alright, everyone, unfortunately, there's been a bit of an issue- we're going to have to cut the show short.” There's a multitude of groans, but he keeps going. “We apologize, but I have to ask everyone to PLEASE leave the arena quickly and in an orderly-”

A sudden rumble cuts him off, and a number of animal cries go up as shouts of surprise and panic begin rising.

“Oh no...” your mom voices lowly.

“Come on, kids, hurry up,” your dad insists, getting up as the masses begin to move. “We don't want to be here right now is my guess.”

There's a sudden scream, as the gator in the pond suddenly thrashes violently, and the host himself scrambles to get away while a pair of handlers prepare to try to corral the thing...

And then all hell breaks loose. Your mother's quick to turn towards the back door near the exit, however. "There's an underground exit this way!" she says to you all quickly. "Follow me!"

No time to argue the point, really.

Thanks to that, and her honorary keycard that she still has, you quickly manage to dip past the confused throng into a door that's all but invisible in the pandemonium- makes sense considering it was intended for internal use only.

Here, at least, there's a moment of respite- for you, at least. Your mother's quick to try and storm off elsewhere, as in her own words "We need answers, and I know who can give them!"

"For what?!" Jessica yells. "Mom, quit the crusader act for once and let's get OUT of here!"

She looks back with determination. Your mom's never been exactly shy about a confrontation. "Baby, honey, I love you, but you can't just let this kind of thing go! Not when you have the opportunity to help!"

"And you think you do!?" she asks incredulously.

"I can try!" She reaches out, kisses Jessica and you on the forehead, dad on the lips. "You three follow the hallway right- that'll take you to a employee exit!" and she immediately turns left and sprints. She's got that kinda life in her.

"Mom..." Jessica grits her teeth, clearly conflicted.

>Follow Mom.
>Escape with Dad and Jessica.

>>4606003

>Follow Mom

>>4606003
>Follow Mom.
I have the slight impression this has mutant finger on it

Writing!

>>4606003
>>4606019
>>4606021
Well...you're not going to just let her run off, damnit! “Wait, mom, hold on!”

“What?!” Jessica yells. “Why are you-!”

“Come on, hun, we need to get going!” your dad sudden yells. Seems like he's not going to argue your decision as he drags her away. You appreciate that. After all, you've got a pretty solid idea as to what might be causing this- at least in a general manner.

You catch up with her quickly enough, and she simply smiles, and says 'this way!'.

Where she leads you to is some sort of nerve center, clearly beneath the zoo itself. It's white-walled, and surrounded by monitors and camera. Sitting down at one of them with a computer and trying to relay orders is an older man, darker-skinned with a salt and pepper haired, and a thick, full beard. “Helena?” he asks in surprise. “What are-”

“No time, Jacob, what's happening?!” she interrupts. “There's some kind of mass breakout event, I recognize the signs- what happened to protocol?”

He hurriedly shakes his head in stress. “Well, hard to follow protocol when the source is actively controlling just about our entire reptile collective and then some!” At hers (and yours) gaping mouths, he points towards one of the monitors. On it is a scaled person, young by your estimate- around thirteen, fourteen maybe? Got a shredded denim jacket and he's riding on the back a of a Geez, right in the middle of puberty and all that junk. He's riding on the back of a rhino, strumming on an acoustic guitar, and looks utterly unbothered by the chaos, as he's surrounded by a mass of snakes, lizards, and other scaled beasts that seem to flock around him, causing chaos, but otherwise aren't bothering him. Is the rhino actually affected by him or does it just not care...? Whatever, point is- he's clearly the source of the issue. “But how?!” you ask.

“My guess is mutant powers,” is the answer. “He just showed up, broke into the zoo. Started releasing all the animals, but the reptiles in particular seem to have an affinity for him. We're down several officers, and everyone's tied up trying to get the public out of there!”

(1/2)

>>4606283

“You haven't called for FutureLabs or the police!?” Your mom asks incredulously.

“Of course! But they're a ways away due to troubles on the west side- we're on our own until then!” Oh, crap. “We need to-”

“You need to get the other scientists and zoologists organized and out of here- look, I know the procedures, I'll try to help. Where's a-” She's tossed another keycard wordlessly. “Thanks.” With that, she turns to you. “Honey, stay here, stay-”

“I'm not just letting you go out there alone!” you protest. Even though you'll have to figure out how to-

“-then can you help direct traffic out?” You're tossed a employee jacket. “Stay safe, but I trust you.” Wow. You, uh... weren't expecting that. “Don't play hero, okay?” Another kiss on the cheek, and she points you in one direction- before she heads down another.

...sorry, mom. Might have to. You're glad you keep that mask on you...

>Head straight to the source. You're not going to let that wannabe album cover strum much longer...
>They're right in that keeping folks safe is the priority here. He can play all he wants- until you're done, anyway.
>Write-In

>>4606286
>>Head straight to the source. You're not going to let that wannabe album cover strum much longer...

We stop the maestro, we stop the chaos

>>4606286
>They're right in that keeping folks safe is the priority here. He can play all he wants- until you're done, anyway.

>>4606286
>They're right in that keeping folks safe is the priority here. He can play all he wants- until you're done, anyway.

>>4606286
>They're right in that keeping folks safe is the priority here. He can play all he wants- until you're done, anyway.

Writing later today. Been a bit less than 100% healthy, but still trying to get at it!

>>4606286
>>4606316
>>4606340
>>4607561
Alright, your mom and the guy have a point. It's better for everyone's safety if you can help clear the area of people, that'll give you much more room to work with taking down the leader. And the best way to do that, you think- is to help keep the rampaging animals from doing too much TOO the fleeing citizens. You can't corral the whole damn, zoo, though...might have to pick and choose just where you're going to have to focus on. Most of these beasts are following the man like the Pied Piper, so maybe-

“Yo!” you look back in surprise to see none other than Gummi Bear slingshotting herself over a building- and with her is another individual holding onto her back- male this time, but with his long blonde hair, magician's costume, and star-shaped mask, you've never seen him before. “Look who it is!”

“Hey!” you can't say you're unhappy to see her. “Came to help?”

“You got it!” she cheers. “What's the situation?”

“Animals on parade!” you yell. “Led by a guy who looks like he should be on an indie rock album cover on a rhino! I'm trying to get people to safety!”

“Then we'll take over getting the ringleader under control for now!” she yells. And with that, they swoop off. Even so, you know you don't have a lot of time- chances are that with confirmed mutants in the area, FutureLabs is going to be on the scene in short order.

You take off, doing your best to shout down and direct individuals to the gates- as well as making sure that any roaming snakes or worse seek to bite unwary or slow fleeing citizens.

>Roll 1d100, best of three for action!

Rolled 100 (1d100)

>>4608401

File: tfw nat 100.jpg (78 KB, 770x800)

78 KB JPG

>>4608405

WEW. IT HAPPENED AGAIN.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFjE5A4UAJI

Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>4608401
>>4608405
might as well start writing OP

...what the fuck.

I mean yeah, but. What the fuck.

>>4608412
Holy shit he did it again

Rolled 57 (1d100)

>>4608401
>>4608405
sure hope I don't get a nat 1

>>4608401
>>4608405
>>4608417
>>4608470
Fortunately, animals are animals, and they're not too intelligent, especially with their instincts being somewhat overridden. Your mask doesn't really look all that nice, but luckily it's not even remotely the issue here- seeing you sweep away snakes with your vines, throw up thick blinding bushes and spiny, entangling vines to block the march of komodo dragons, and at one point fending off a mass of large, and clearly hungry and possessed crocodiles and alligators with just plain misdirection and corraling (along with a healthy dose of bark skin protection) helps. That's more than enough to get people to listen to you, and after some time playing clean up, you've gotten a solid number of people directed and out safely- enough at least that you're seeing good gaps in between people.

Now might be a good time to go helping Gummi and the other person, whoever that was. Fortunately, it's not hard to locate where they are- on occasion you've seen Gummi take to the air or something loud happening.

When you reach them, it's clear that whoever this kid is isn't in the best mood; his big pet rhino seems to be fighting a lot on his behalf- and he's also called a few other big animals to the brawl, judging by the pair of bears and the tigers he's got with him as he plays a a few licks. Sharp-taloned eagles fly above him, divebombing whenever one of them gets to close to him. Seems like it's recent, though- Gummi doesn't look too out of sorts, and neither does star mask person as they both try to move around the beasts- seems like the bears are mostly for defense, while the tigers are the ones they're really being attacked by. Although it's weird- you'd think some tigers wouldn't be enough for a stretchy girl like Gummi, but...they seem to be oddly fast and strong. Star face has some sort of glow in their hands, but that's all you see for now.

Might as well take advantage, then...

Which is when you dive in, slamming your hands to the ground. A massive root system jumps forth- it's surprisingly easy to feel for and connect to in a zoo- growing and surging towards the indie singer; he hears the slam, but pretty much anything that uses legs stumbles, falls, and is bound by the exploding form of nature's wrath. He himself just...glares?

And strums but once- and once is enough to get just about every available nearby beast's eyes on YOU.

>That's fine. You've got thick skin. Very thick skin. You can hold them off.
>Go STRAIGHT for the wannabe Pied Piper and try to tangle him up, too.
>Time to play tag and you're it! You'll at least give Gummi and her friend some time...
>Write-In

>>4608630
>Time to play tag and you're it! You'll at least give Gummi and her friend some time...

>>4608630
>That's fine. You've got thick skin. Very thick skin. You can hold them off.
I am wood, stupid

>>4608630
>>Time to play tag and you're it! You'll at least give Gummi and her friend some time...

>>4608630
>Time to play tag and you're it! You'll at least give Gummi and her friend some time...

>>4608630
>>4608636
>>4608860
>>4609176
Right then! You're pretty sure they've got some kind of plan, and you're not really one to try to interrupt. You might be able to help out nonetheless, though...considering so many of these beasts are eyeing you, well...

You give another vine lash at them to really rile them up, but that's all that's needed before the mass of scales and slithering and sharp teeth surges towards you.

For a moment you're scared as all getout. The next, you're...still scared as all getout, but you're also running like hell and trying to keep ahead of diving birds using bark-thick armor out of your skin, vines to keep to as much high ground as possible, and NOT accidentally stick any extended limbs into the mass of potentially venomous creatures that are clamoring for your blood. The roaring doesn't slow you down any, either. You REALLY would rather not test your defenses against those sharp claws. You just need to make sure you can hold their attention for long enough for the ladies to do their work.

You wind up darting between buildings, ducking to avoid a mass of snakes that FALL from out of nowhere- gods they're coming out of the walls, practically! Way too creepy.

It doesn't help that you can't exactly hurt too many of these creatures- zoo property and all!

>Roll 1d100, best of three!

>Maybe you can trap a lot of them? It'd take a TON out of you, though, to try and shape wood to THAT extent...
>You're just going to have to keep running for as long as you can stand it!
>Maybe you should try to at least drop a few of them- that'll likely cause them to scatter- and be less of a cohesive threat.
>Write-In

Rolled 38 (1d100)

>>4609609
>Maybe you can trap a lot of them? It'd take a TON out of you, though, to try and shape wood to THAT extent...
time for the lucky third 100

Rolled 50 (1d100)

>>4609609
>>Maybe you can trap a lot of them? It'd take a TON out of you, though, to try and shape wood to THAT extent...

File: scared_monke.jpg (6 KB, 268x188)

6 KB JPG

>>4609616

shit. where are those 100s?
Let's hope we chugged a lot beforehand

Gonna go ahead and write.

One more roll missing

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>4609758

Don't count this. I'm just curious to know what the third roll would've been

File: like_wow.jpg (633 KB, 1487x2107)

633 KB JPG

>>4609764

>tfw

>>4609764
This anon is lying. You must count this roll as best of 3.

>>4609764
why didn't you roll earlier, siren ? anyway of course it's gonna be counted, because it's the third one

>>4610066

Tbh I thought someone would roll the third dice before the call.

Sprout if you wanna count that 83 be my guest

>>4609609
>>4609609
>>4609612
>>4609616
>>4609764
Well, crap. There's not really much else you can do in this case- they'll circle back around if you leave too early, but then again there's also the whole possibility of reinforcements. You need to find a way to take the majority of them off the gameboard...

And the only immediate option to you is...well, it's not gonna be pleasant. Making tough enough wood traps isn't going to be fun, but it's the only thing you can think of that has even a chance of working and keeping you in decent shape to help out...if it works. You won't be able to be nice and separate them, though, so hopefully...well, there won't be too many animal bodies.

First up, all these damn SNAKES. You don't have to think long for that one- you quickly pivot to a small grouping of trees nearby, and press, focusing...

The wood is reluctant to listen, but listen it does. It warps, combines, and you're already sweating. You have to hurry this up!

Fortunately, in the next few seconds, it's a decent enough upside down bowl trap. It's immensely large wide, almost the size of a small building itself, with big, high curved sides, easy enough to get in via the small gap you left open-

-and the rampaging reptiles and beasts DO indeed pile in like a flood, almost as beautiful as the image is terrifying.

Luckily, it's also hard to get OUT, as you quickly prove when you leap and swing out the OTHER gap, closing the gaps via growth and trapping them in. It's crude, blobby, and likely more than a few will have dodged the snare, but it's not like you had a whole lot of time to waste.

You QUICKLY grab for a bottle of water and start chugging on the go- it's not pleasant, but you seem to have caught a solid number of them. There's more stragglers than you'd hoped, but you can at least keep ahead of them for now.

...just have to fight off this headache as you head back to the battleground. And this dry feeling...

You manage it, but what you come back to is a (literally) giant worry.

Both Gummi and Star kid (whatever their name is) look a bit more beat up, Gummi in particular having a hole in the jacket she's wearing. Guitar boy on the other hand looks fine, but is apparently down to his heaviest hitter- which is in fact a damn elephant, and he's standing on top of it like he's king of the world. “End of the day, you guys? Are poseurs,” the kid says, his voice, soft, raspy, but clearly malicious.

Great, though, he doesn't see you. Maybe-

He strums again- and GEEZ, that's a loud one! It makes you cringe and cover your ears with a yell, but the elephant trumpets as well, and THAT doesn't help at all, either. You can barely notice the others as a roar comes in the distance...crap.

>Try to wrap up the kid before things get a bit TOO nutty. You'll have to hope the girls can deal with the rampaging elephant.
>You can bind the elephant, you think...but it'll leave you wiped, and the ladies will have to take over from there...
>Write-In

>>4610582
>>Try to wrap up the kid before things get a bit TOO nutty. You'll have to hope the girls can deal with the rampaging elephant.

Best option if we don't wanna look sus when we get back with our folks

I really need to start running at a regular time.

>>4610582
>Try to wrap up the kid before things get a bit TOO nutty. You'll have to hope the girls can deal with the rampaging elephant.

>>4610582
>Try to wrap up the kid before things get a bit TOO nutty. You'll have to hope the girls can deal with the rampaging elephant.

>>4610582
>Try to wrap up the kid before things get a bit TOO nutty. You'll have to hope the girls can deal with the rampaging elephant.

Writing!

>>4610582
>>4610594
>>4610727
>>4610753
>>4610754
Well, you don't have much time, and this act's gone bad. Time for this hack to get the hook.

You have to draw so much energy you feel like you're going to faint, but...no, not yet. You've still got enough in the tank to at least get him out of the picture, and as your vines surge forward, you're privately happy to see he doesn't even notice you.

What that means is that he's practically yanked off the pachyderm as it rumbles forwards, completely forgetting its (temporary) master in exchange for its own rage.

You've managed to bind the guy, but as he hits the ground hard, you let out a deep sigh- there's not much else you can muster up as you slump to the ground, and it's hard to even hear the guy's yelling at you.

Everything starts to get hazy...and you can barely see a large hand reaching for you before you black out.

By the time you wake up, however...you're...in some sort of alley? And you're being looked over by Gummi Bear, to boot. “Hey,” she says kind of softly. “You alright?”

“Gah...I'll live...need water,” you cough out. She's quick to hand you a water bottle, to which you nod gratefully.

“Glad I remembered your whole deal about that,” she admits. “Although is that a new mask?”

“Cleaned it,” you say as you take another swig. It's quiet, though you can still hear a lot of clamoring outside.

“Gotcha. Well, we managed to get the elephant under control,” she concedes, “and the guy controlling it, thanks to you. You did great out there! Had to get you away, though,” she admits. “FutureLabs and police showed up and started interrogating everyone. Wasn't safe.” She motions around, and you finally notice the familiar coloration... “Yup. You're back in the safehouse.”

“...ah.” Not much else you can say to that. “So...” you start to get up, but she's quick to hold you- not to mention you're already feeling dizzy again.

“Whoa, now. You're not doing so hot, obviously. Maybe you should chill here until you're back on your feet without tripping over them, huh?” Gah...she's got a point, but...your parents are going to be apoplectic about you going missing.

>No, you need to leave, even if you're half-dead from exhaustion. Should call a cab, if nothing else.
>You should at least try to let them know you're okay, you think...but they're going to be worried regardless if you don't elaborate.
>You hate it, but you should at least wait to talk until you're feeling better, otherwise they'll ask WAY too many questions.
>Write-In

>>4611154

>You hate it, but you should at least wait to talk until you're feeling better, otherwise they'll ask WAY too many questions.

>>4611154
>You hate it, but you should at least wait to talk until you're feeling better, otherwise they'll ask WAY too many questions.

Writing anywho.

>>4611154
>>4611157
>>4611161
You don't like the idea of leaving your family in the dark, but if you're being honest, you know full well that with how you feel and sound, you're going to be grilled by all family members. It's probably not the best thing to just leave them twisting in the wind for a day, but...

“Yeah, probably,” you admit. “Thanks again.”

“No prob,” she dismisses. “You basically gave us all the openings we needed to corral that big lug.”

“And what about the ringleader?” you ask. Did he get-

“FutureLabs got him,” she frowns. “We'd barely gotten the elephant settled proper before they'd showed up. Ended up fleeing with you, kinda like I said earlier.” Right. You'd mostly left any criminal mutants for the police or FutureLabs if they were nearby and you'd decided to bother, but you didn't really 'turn them in', so to speak. Not with those rumors of what FutureLabs is doing to them. “But, don't worry about that for now. We'll handle the fallout.”

“Right...fallout?” You'd have thought that was a good showing for mutants, frankly.

“There's always fallout,” she responds sadly. “Don't worry yourself over it. We'll talk later.” With that, she leaves you be, alone with your thoughts.

A couple hours later, you get a phone call- you hadn't bothered to look at it yet, and when you do, you can see that there's a crack in it. Not a full one, thank goodness, but it's noticable, which is gonna be annoying. It's your sister, too, according to ID. Unfortunately, while you're glad she's likely okay after all that, you're still in no shape to answer.

You do get a text from her as well. 'Hope you're safe. Please come home soon.' Huh...that's sweet.

It's the most of rest of the day as you fight through a pounding headache, sometimes nodding off, but eventually you manage to down enough water and get enough rest to feel up to getting up, checking your phone again. Odd, though. No one's here in the building...

There's a message you missed, apparently- from Jamie, no less. 'Hey, you okay out there?! Things got crazy! Hello!?'

Oh, boy. Not great. But... '?? Crazy how?' you need to respond.

'Oh thank god I was worried,' is the quick response. 'Was different attacks all at the same time. Zoo, Museum, Aquarium. People in a panic. Need to lay low. Come by when you can.'

...Yikes. Well...you're okay, now. You need to get home first and foremost...

(1/2)

>>4611956
It's not too long of a trip, thank goodness. You can see the car in the driveway, so that's good, everyone's likely home. Although you're pretty sure you know how you're going to be greeted. Giving a sigh, you steel yourself. “Mom? Dad? Sis? I'm-”

“Oh, my baby!!!” And suddenly crushing hugs. Yup, you kinda figured that. “What on earth happened?! You wouldn't answer and you've been gone since that strange mutant boy attacked!” Your mom's a worrywart...even if it IS justified this time.

“My goodness, that was scary...” your dad agrees. “What happened to you?” Jessica just remains quiet.

You shake your head and shrug. “Phone broke for a bit, and after helping get people out, I kinda ran for it myself. Got lost in the shuffle, and I needed a place to recharge it and see what happened to it.” You can spot the problem as soon as the lie leaves your lips, but to your surprise, Jessica still remains quiet.

And so your mom and pop sigh. “Alright, but really, try to get home earlier! We were out of our minds looking for you!” she says.

“I will,” you concede. “Thanks for worrying, though.”

“Oh, we always will,” your dad assures.

“...Fine,” your sister speaks up. “Just don't freak us out again.” Sighing, she turns away. “I'm gonna chill in my room until I can't anymore.”

Well...that's that for now, at least. Now...

>You're gonna do a bit of training. You need to make sure you can pull something like that without passing out again.
>You're going to let yourself recover a bit. Take a couple of days to enjoy life and your family, with all this.
>Maybe you should look into whatever it is Jamie's got going on. He did say 'whenever' and all...
>Write-In

>>4611957
>>You're gonna do a bit of training. You need to make sure you can pull something like that without passing out again.
>Maybe you should look into whatever it is Jamie's got going on. He did say 'whenever' and all...

can we do two for one?

>>4611966
Have to roll for it.

>>4612012

I trust the die.

>>4612018
>>4612012

Wait, you mean 1d100 or 1d2?

>>4612020
1d100.

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>4612042

Oookay here goes.

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>4611957
>You're gonna do a bit of training. You need to make sure you can pull something like that without passing out again.
>>4612042

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>4612042
Looks like Siren has the Blessing of Mutant!Quest QMing

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12 KB GIF

>>4612093

is acually luck-powered mutant

>>4611957
>>4611966
>>4612050
>>4612073
>>4612093
Well...all things considered, you've really got to work on your stamina...or whatever it is that plants might have that helps them grow faster. You really don't want to try and do something like that again without a bit more practice under your belt.

That's why, one day, you're finally giving the hideout an honest visit. Gummi's manning the counter as usual; which reminds me- you've really got to ask why a restaurant as a front... “Yo. Glad you came back. Doing alright?” She seems...tired.

“Yeah,” you admit. “Mostly. Anyone actually eating in here?”

She chuckles. “Nah, but it's not like we don't get customers, actually. They're just usually night owls or stuff like that since we're open late. Our official hours don't actually start for a few more. This is just us being nice to 'other folks'.”

Ah. That makes sense. “Gotcha. Well...I was actually kinda hoping if there was anyone out there that might be cool with helping me out a bit...train some stuff up, I guess. Figure out more about how I tick.”

“Ohh?” Her eyes gleam a little. “So, you want that kinda help? Well...yeah, I know some folks, but we're kinda busy these days, but I think we can fit you in- eventually.” She's got a small grin on her face, so you're not sure whether she's being cheeky or serious, but...

> “Alright. Then I guess I'll check in when I can.” Might as well do what you can on your own.
> “Wait, how are you all busy? Especially considering you're...well, here?”
> Ask if everyone's alright from before. Seemed rough.
> Write-In

(Will resume tomorrow about 11 AM PST!)

>>4612284
>> “Wait, how are you all busy? Especially considering you're...well, here?”

after above gets answered...

>> “I'll check in when I can.” Might as well do what you can on your own.

>>4612284
> Ask if everyone's alright from before. Seemed rough.

Orrr maybe later. But writing!

>>4612284
>>4612286
>>4612298
Hold on, something's off about that. “So wait, how are you all busy, considering you're...well, here?”

She grins. “I'm here to keep base running. Most everyone else is out and about trying to handle all the craziness that's come from the sudden influx of crazyheads. Feels like we're living in a real-life comic book now, but it ain't as fun as some thought it might be...”

“No kidding.” You'd heard that there were a number of individuals causing trouble- mostly thefts and whatnot, nothing horrible vile as no one wanted increased military or cop presence, but the increased crime is still worrying. “Glad you guys are trying to do something.”

“Eh...well, could be going better,” she admits. “A lot of us are getting' ran around by all of this, buuuut...we're at least doing something, like you said. So thanks.” She grins, and you find yourself kinda glad for it, too. “Not like it's gonna get any easier in the future, but we gotta help out some way in keeping things sane, right?”

Can't deny that. “Basically. Everyone from before alright?”

“Eh. In a way. I'm all good. Starbright's been kinda in a funk, but otherwise okay. Mindy's been tearing her hair out trying to figure out what's going on, but so far so bad,” she explains. “Starting to get a little worried, really. ”

Huh. That's curious. “For her or for the situation?”

“Both,” she says easily.

> “Why's she so invested in this aside from the obvious?”
> “I'm busy, but maybe I can help out sometimes.”
> “Why not just lay low until some of the heat dies down?”
> Write-In

>>4613192

> “Why's she so invested in this aside from the obvious?”

>>4613192
> “Why not just lay low until some of the heat dies down?”

Can't help people if you get captured or killed

>>4613192
>“Why's she so invested in this aside from the obvious?”

Huh. I might have to put this on hold. I can't really avoid the issue right now, unfortunately.

>>4614364

NP OP. Patience is the name of the board.

>>4614364
Thanks for letting us know OP.

>>4614364
holding down the fort

File: 577094A3-9825-49A4-8B9E-9(...).gif (1.48 MB, 365x206)

1.48 MB GIF

>>4614364

Don’t forget to archive senpai

Right, will do. Also, will try to run this weekend.