>>4982139
“...w-well, look here!” he starts up, seemingly trying to find his nerve. “Alright, look, I knew something was fishy with her, sure. She’d been looking this way and that some times, like she was anxious to leave. I mean, more than might be expected. Like she had to go right THEN. Not like I cared TOO much, though. So long as she did her work, it didn’t matter much to me how she acted.” He grunts, shaking his head. “If she was a bit more on the ball none-a this likely would’ve happened.”

“Nonetheless, it did,” Alired points out. “So if you’d continue…”

Platty sighs. “Mmm...lesse here...look, when she stepped out ta get the part? Noticed she hung left outta here. Only for a second or two, though. Bolted back to the right in the right direction. before I had time to say anything.” Huh. Interesting… “Anywho, anythin’ else to ask me, or what?”

Alired seems to consider this. “Hmm...for now, I think it’s clear that she did indeed head towards Stage 3. The question now is ‘why’? She was clearly agitated about something.”

“Maybe she knew about the issues in Stage 3 and wanted to fix those quicker?” Emi shrugs. You doubt that.

Hmmm. You’re not sure if you have any questions to ask yourself.

“Regardless,” Alired starts, “We need to reinvestigate Stage 3, perhaps. Emi?” he turns to her. “Do you mind? I’d like to stay here and ask Mr. Platty another few questions.”

“On it!” she salutes. As for you…
>You’re also hoping to have a few more questions for him.
>You’ll go ahead and help Emi reinvestigate Stage 3.
>This might be as far as your assistance can really go…
>Other

>>4982140
>You’ll go ahead and help Emi reinvestigate Stage 3.
I don’t have any questions off the top of my head, and if there’s anything broken on Stage 3, we could use our gauntlets to help fix it.

>>4982140
>You’ll go ahead and help Emi reinvestigate Stage 3.
Ayy

>>4982143
Don't think our gauntlets will help. Whatever that is broken has long pass the 10 minutes mark, also remember the Int's magic dampening?

>>4982140
>You’ll go ahead and help Emi reinvestigate Stage 3.

>>4982140
>>You’re also hoping to have a few more questions for him.
What he said is not enough to let him off the hook

Writing!

>>4982140
>>4982143
>>4982150
>>4982163
“I’ll help her out,” you decide. Might be worth taking another look at things over there while he handles the questions. A look over at Emi has her shrug, and Alired doesn’t seem to complain, so you’re good to go, you suppose. You follow her out and back to the other stage, as she hums a wordless tune.

“Alright!” She says as you both step back in. “Sooo, we know she was here! The question is, is there anything here that we might’ve overlooked the first time?” She says as she looks over the place. “Doesn’t seem like there’s a whole lot here, so we’re gonna have to be extra careful. Probably a good idea to check the outer perimeter, too.” Hm. Alright, then. Might as well. “What do we check first that we haven’t already checked…?”

“Might as well just look everywhere,” you suggest. Not much is there, really. A couple of trash cans, some small debris…”...not that there’s much here. Anything we missed in the control room?”

Emi shrugs. “I doubt there’s anything much in the tiny drawers that were there, but…” Might as well, you mentally finish.

A few minutes go by as you both search every nook and cranny. There’s nothing new, though, aside from what seems to be a note from Xia on a company letter discussing Stage usage and schedules. Apparently, all three stages are slated to be used eventually, but only Stage 2 for the time being. Stages 1 and 3 were ‘undergoing maintenance’ and only authorized repairpeople or technicians should enter. Huh...that’s largely accurate to what you recall, but something yet bugs you.

A few more minutes, and Emi sighs. “Well, about as expected, but who knows? Maybe Red’s squeezed something out of the guy. Let’s get going.” Well, fine. As you both leave, you take a last look around- wait a second.

“Hold on.” A pause as you notice something in one of those trash cans that you saw earlier. Largely empty, save for a small piece of paper in it- and one that looks like a note. Considering this place generally wasn’t supposed to be used, you’d be surprised if trash remained from earlier in the day, meaning… “What’s this?”

Looking further, it’s what appears to be unused company paper. The name of the company is on the top-left as before. But it’s what’s on the back side that gives you pause. A note. Typed out.

After prep during off-hours. Stage 3. We should talk.

There is no signature. “Whoa!” Emi half yells. “Can’t believe I nearly missed that. The trash is so obvious!”

Yeah, kinda...but the question now is what to do with this. This is clearly why she was so agitated. But who’s the sender? And what was the subject?

You’re moving already as you speak. “We should…”

> ...take this back to Alired now. He’ll want to see it ASAP and can likely help with some insight.
> ...keep looking before we commit to anything. You mentioned looking around the studio exterior?
> Other

>>4982286
> ...keep looking before we commit to anything. You mentioned looking around the studio exterior?
> Any ideas on how we could check people’s handwriting discreetly?

>>4982286
>> ...keep looking before we commit to anything. You mentioned looking around the studio exterior?
>Send him a message in the meantime
We do have his number and Emi should have a way to contact him as well
>>4982288
It's typed out, not handwritten

>>4982286
>>4982289
+

>>4982289
Oh, well, in that case… is it printed from a computer, or typed from a typewriter?

>>4982288
Although just the fact that it's on a piece of paper should narrow down the list. From what the Director told us:
>He shrugs. “From what I was told? A combo of ‘authenticity’, whatever that means, and security. The sheer fact that natural paper’s hard to come by means that only certain people can get to it- if something gets leaked, it’s easier to trace than over digital transmission. Gets out to less people, too, and way easier to dispose of.”

>>4982286
>>4982289
Let's go with this.

What the heck are they doing? You aren't supposed to leave loose ends while doing espionage. First the thing at the library now this at the studio. Clearly they aren't cut out for this and should be pay-docked and their managers should hire some outgoers instead.

>>4982295
>>4982286
Might check this as well. If they use paper for 'authenticity' then they could have a typewriter as well. For a place that has to import all resources it'd be more practical to use laser printers or something. If paper is a luxury then so should be ink, maybe we can even guesstimate the time when it was typed out by how dry it is.
>Examine the note more thoroughly

>>4982308
I don't think these two cases are connected just because paper is involved

>>4982286
>>4982313
Yeah make a note or tell the investigators.

Writing!

>>4982286
>>4982288
>>4982289
>>4982293
>>4982308
>>4982313
>>4982449
“Right, no problem! I can give him a ring up.” Emi says easily. “Wanna go check the back while I do that?”

“Sounds like a plan.” At least you can do something like that while she deals with her partner. “I’ll be out back, then.”

As you leave, you can see her take out a phone. Good that she’s right on it.

Looking around the sides and out back, you find that there’s...well, not much. There’s a dumpster, filled with various recyclables and some waste- the Intersection hates to let anything go for real, and as a result, there’s not much in the way of permanent trash. Let’s see...there’s...well, there’s no real way to check for footprints here and now. You think, anyway. The Futuresight might have an option. As you run through searches on the thing for an analyzer program, you continue to take a look around. There’s nothing that sticks out to you…

But after a few minutes of searching (you can only guess that Emi’s having a long talk with Alired), you DO notice something disturbing.

Blood. No points for guessing whos it is. It’s not a lot- only a couple of drops, it seems. But it’s there, against the back right edge of the dumpster. Doesn’t look too old, either. Freshly dried. That’s already a major clue. But now, the question is why back here? ...well, the dumpster itself might have something in it to answer that. You kinda loathe dumpster diving, though. Maybe you can just get Emi to do it. It’s more her job than yours, sooo…

>Yeah, no, get Emi to do it. You’re not doing this for no pay.
>...they better at least say thank you for this.
>Other

>>4984739
>Yeah, no, get Emi to do it. You’re not doing this for no pay.
Do we have our bottomless bag with us? I guess we do, since we are carrying the Futuresight.
Anyway she has her gear on and we don't, so she's more suitable.
Don't want to ruin our beautiful hair now do we?

>>4984739
>>Yeah, no, get Emi to do it. You’re not doing this for no pay.

>>4984739
>Yeah, no, get Emi to do it. You’re not doing this for no pay.

>>4984739
>...they better at least say thank you for this.

>>4984747
No, just the FS and your phone.

>>4984757
What about Gartoum? Do we have his ring with us?

>>4984759
No.

>>4984739
>Yeah, no, get Emi to do it. You’re not doing this for no pay.
We might damage the evidence. Let the professional with equipment handle it.

>>4984739
>>Yeah, no, get Emi to do it. You’re not doing this for no pay.

>>4984739
>>4984747
>>4984748
>>4984751
>>4984817
>>4985724

...thinking about it, that’s a bit beyond your will. You’d rather just have Emi do it- it’s her job, not yours. Hopefully she’s just about done with- “Hey! Find anything?” Oh. Well, speak of the devil. At least that’s saved you a trip.

“Yeah,” you say as you check your FutureSight. Thermal imaging, print and dust pattern tracing...sounds about right. If it can work for fingerprinting, it can work for you, you suppose. “Check this out- bloodstains on the edge of the dumpster. They don’t look too old, either.”

“Whoa, seriously?” She quickly comes over to look, and grimaces. “Yeeaah, that’s not a good sign. Any hair or anything?” Ah. Good question. “And while it’s pretty obvious, probably a good idea to run a test on it just in case.” Also makes sense. Emi’s clearly not a one-trick pony, it seems.

“Might be a good idea to call Alired over after all once we’re done here,” you figure once you’ve taken a couple of pictures. “I’m wondering if there’s anything that might be in that dumpster.” You side eye Emi. “How good are you at dumpster diving?”

She grimaces, reeling back. “Really?! You’re gonna make a young girl like me go diving in the garbage?”

“This isn’t my case,” you point out. “I’m just trying to help here and there.”

“Soooo be helpful and maybe take this one for me?” she offers with a shit-eating grin. It fades once you meet it with your own blank look. “Uggggh. Fine, fine. Red’s gonna give me that look if he finds out I didn’t look everywhere anyway. But I ain’t going all the way down! If anything related to the crime happens to be in here, it’s more than likely to be near the top…” With that, she gives a small hop and dives in…

And in the meantime, you decide to run your scan. There just might be something there, if you’re lucky.

>Roll 1d20, best of three.

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4985823

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4985823

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4985823

Solid. Writing.

>>4985823
>>4985831
>>4985840
>>4985843
The scan takes only a minute or so as you listen to Emi grumble and shuffle around, but once the beep happens, she sticks her head out. “All I’m seeing are wrappers for fruit snacks and a bunch of busted up wood and stuff. What about you?”

“Actually…” you look carefully at the readouts. “According to this, there ARE footprints that have been made within the last 3 hours,” you say to your slight surprise. You pull the FS up and away, letting the camera feed track them as you follow them around. “Not counting ours that are obviously the most recent, there’s three sets of tracks. Two small sets, and one larger set.” You frown as you continue to follow them, and you admit a bit of surprise as you lift your sight to follow the trail. “The bigger set...leads across to Stage 2. But they don’t even go in front, it seems. They just stay behind the building from what I can see. And one of the smaller sets seem to trace the same path...only they’re coming behind Stage 2 to the front of Stage 3.” Hm. You have to double back for the last trail. “And the last seems to go back to the front of Stage 3 from near the dumpster.”

“That’s odd…” Emi mumbles to herself as she tries to puzzle it out.

“As for anything else,” you continue after checking the readouts, “...not sure. The blood will need more time.”

“Gotcha,” she says idly. “I think that’s more than enough to go back to Red with.” With that, she flipped back and headed off. You’re hoping that this comes to a head soon…

Fortunately, when he comes back with Emi, he seems to take the issue quite quickly. “Hmm...I see,” he said after you quickly tell him of the information that you’ve found. “That indeed helps the situation, considering what Platty and Mavara have informed us.”

“And what was that?” Emi asks. You notice that Nia and Platty both aren’t here.

“The fact that Mavara has been coming to late rehearsals.” Huh! That’s interesting. “It seems as though he’s been practicing rather vigorously on his own, specifically in the open Stage 3. And the individual he had to assist him...was Leona. Commendable, but in this situation, suspect.” Very, clearly. “And you stated a note was found, as well as this, now…” He almost has a grin on. “The picture is becoming clearer.”

“So, then do you know who did it?” you ask.

“Perhaps,” he says coyly. “Although, considering what you’ve shown me up until now, I confess my curiosity...that is, if you’d mind playing along. Have you made a deduction yourself?”

Huh. That’s putting you on the spot all of a sudden. “I thought that was your job to find this out.” Not that he hasn’t put work into it, but...

At least he doesn’t seem offended. “True, but humor me, if you would? What are your thoughts, considering all that you’re aware of at the moment? As a B-Ranked Outgoer, I mean. What is your theory?”

Hmph.

>I couldn’t tell you at the moment. Too many possibilities, sorry.
>Well… (What?)

>>4985974
Mavara is the largest one around here yes?

>>4985991
Yes, but Rush is not much smaller.

So before I post my really long recap, here's the location of the Equipment Storage itself.

>“Fascinating.” And by that you mean irrelevant. “So, where’s the Equipment Storage area?”

>He sighs. “Fiiine. Walk past Stage 5, hang a right, go down the alley, then a left, and it’s the big building on your left. Easy peasy.”

File: 109.jpg (49 KB, 1560x92)

49 KB JPG

>>4985974
>I couldn’t tell you at the moment. Too many possibilities, sorry.
This guy has his own partner to bounce his ideas off of.
>Describe what happened a bit earlier in Stage 2 between Mavara and Rush

File: doubt.png (380 KB, 635x356)

380 KB PNG

>>4985974
You know what, I'll take a quick shot in the dark here, the recap is way too long.


>>Well… (What?)

It's Nia. The culprit definitely has an accomplish and Mavara has a clear connection here, but I'm not sure yet.

As for Nia.
>She was here the whole time.
>She let out a suspicious slip

>“...uggggh, fine. But don't contact me unless it's important. Usually it's the other way around." A quick exchange later, and you have Nia's work contact. "Just don’t stay here too late,” she grumbles. “I don’t need more after-hours idiocy to cause me to stay later. I got out of the warlord business to NOT work as hard as managing planets, thank you!” With that unnecessary addition, she floats off, likely to home. Now with that cleared up, you decide to head off to Stage 2.

>She is the only suspect around who has enough authority and permission to use paper.
>She was more emotional than usual throughout the investigation.
>She redirected us to Platty to get him to become the prime suspect instead of her.
>She dropped more crumbs to Platty while investigating with us.
>She called the investigators themselves. Normally this would lower her suspicion rating.

>Something isn’t quite right here. “Hold on, Nia said something different.”

>The man frowns. “What, you callin’ Platty a liar?” THAT’S his name. You’d ran into him earlier- quite literally. “Look, she always ends up runnin’ off to do this or that; can’t hardly stay in one place, and it’s the most annoyin’ as piss thing. If’n you talked to her earlier today then that don’t mean nothin’.”

“No, I just talked to her maybe a few minutes ago, and she said she was supposed to be in here,” you explain. “AND that she was warned about that script- she said she’d be fired if she lost it. I can’t imagine that wouldn’t include being here to give it to me.”

>She has A LOT of connections and martial prowess so she should know how to blank out Leona without being found out.
>She also should have enough skill and permission to manually override the camera.
>She's also the first person to check the camera when we discovered the body.

I'm really tired of this Magicless Volunteer arc. It has very little to do with characters we actually care about and doesn't have a big impact on our main job. Yet we have to try because there's a risk of losing our sanity, but we're prohibited from using most of our abilities. I have a theory but then this paranoid anon is going to start throwing his crazy ideas based on nothing and I don't want to argue with that clown.
>>4986091
>It's Nia
jfc

>>4985974
>>4986091
As for Mavara, he's likely to be strong-armed into helping her. Primarily because she's a big shot in the business and his boss, and she can easily take him out as easily as Leona.

I'm mostly casting magic missle at the darkness here but from what I can gather this is my conclusion.

>>4986091
>She called the investigator in the first place
>She doesn't have a motive against Leona
>This execution is extremely messy and unprofessional - uncharacteristic of her
>Why would she execute this plan when she knew we were going to look for Leona?
Please don't tell me you're still pushing your theory of 'it was all done to blackmail Miranda'

>>4986123
That's the thing, we don't know her deeper connections to Leona. That's why I'm constantly pointing out that this is mostly a guess at the moment, because I haven't even gotten deep into the footprints and location assessment.
By the way I'm not the anon that you're referring to.

>>4986132
>this is mostly a guess at the moment
>actually pushes this as a vote anyway

>>4986100
Understandable. I'll break (really crack it only slightly) my usual rules a bit to say this, however: this is an optional event. I'd hoped to imply it with the options I occasionally threw out, but you can wash your hands of it and skip to the resolution. You have no real obligation to assist them. Think of it like a side quest.

>>4986138
Yes that's my vote. It's harmless anyway since Alired already has this, but if we got it right instead of just bowing out we can get a reward out of this sidequest perharps?
You're welcome to try other theories.

>>4986100
I mean, you could also just skip the arc until its over. I've done it when it's a mission that I'm not interested in, in order not to bring down everyone else.

also, I'll close this vote in 30 minutes. Trying to speed things up, but this is a vote that requires detail. Anything after that? No dice.

>>4986140
I saw the option to wash our hands away in this thread, but with lines like "But this case has threated both your payday, and your sanity, if worst comes to worst." literally in the OP it didn't look like a good course of action. And this is the only piece of action that we had the whole summer, there's no way we'd have ignored this and went to sleep in our trailer.

>>4985974
>>4986055
I'll add this
>It's not Nia

>>4985974
>>4986091
Why should we humor him in the first place? Especially when he uses cheap bait like 'I mean, you're an outgoer'.

>>4985974
I'll split the difference.
>I couldn’t tell you at the moment. I'm more the muscle when I'm on the job, anyways.

>>4985974
I'm leaning Mavara myself. I'm too smallbrain for this and Platty seems too obvious. The other anon's pointers on Nia go over my head but he's right that she checked the cams first
This is not our main strength, we're more of a puncher.

>>4986091
Another thing: actors also have access to paper - their scripts. Someone who worked for a long time could also get access to the printer. And I don't remember Mavara having a stunt double in the last movie, so he could know some tricks as well. I'm leaning on Mavara, I mentioned in the last thread that whoever Platty could be covering for would be running around the studio picking up loose pieces of evidence: the note was in the trash bin and the dumpster, while didn't have anything inside atm, had large footprints around it.
However, I don't think it's good enough to pin down it all on him. It could be that it was all three of them - Rush, Platty and Mavara, with varying degrees of responsibility.

>>4986223
>Another thing: actors also have access to paper - their scripts.
Normally, yeah, but I don't think we've gotten our script yet, and thus we don't know if its traditional paper or if it's digital. Also, the note was on company paper, which would be harder to get.

>>4986223
In all cases I do think Mavara is involved. It's just that I picked up too many flags from Nia herself.
I don't think actors can print papers themselves. Higher-ups definitely can but I haven't picked up a hint from Handler noting that actors can do it.

>>4986140
Murder mysteries like this tend to not fly well in quest format, but I do enjoy this change of pace. Not for too long though, we still have to get back to our pet bird.

>>4986233
We did get our script from the Director, it was on paper. We even questioned him about it.
And it happened three weeks ago IRL, so I'm not surprised that we've started mixing up and forgetting all the pieces of evidence at this point.

Alrighty, that's that. Writing.

>>4986248
I see a lot of anons leaning Mavara.

>>4986238
>Murder mysteries like this tend to not fly well in quest format
I think it could've, but the established characters that we care about are not here, the character we're playing not only isn't well fit for the role of the investigator but also prohibited from use of her usual methods. There was an option to bring Lori with us and we could've switched to her to use 'Fact or Fiction' ability, plus she's more knowledgeable about the Intersection (less time wasted on exposition), but hey, hindsight 20/20. Also the glacial speed of updates didn't help - easy to forget some events or connect clues if you have to wait for a week for the next update.

>>4986268
Also there's no reward for actually trying

>>4986268
Eh, I suggested bringing Lorelei in early back then precisely because of that, but another anon batted down my suggestion immediately. Didn't matter anyway since it was hinted that the investigator duo can somewhat detect lies.
I actually enjoy the expositions, I'm eager to learn more stuffs about the city.

>>4985974
>>4986055
>>4986091
>>4986107
>>4986174
>>4986201
After puzzling it over for a few moments, you end up simply shrugging. “Honestly, I couldn’t give you a detailed answer. Gut instinct at least says that Mavara has something to do with it, but beyond that…” you shake your head. “Whenever there’s a team effort, I tend to be the muscle for a reason, I guess.”

He huffs a bit, but you can see that some of the smile has left his face. “Well, perhaps I was expecting a bit much. Still, you and I DO share that opinion. I agree that Mavara was likely involved.” He folds his arms in consideration. “If not as the culprit, then at least as a collaborator. I would say the footprints are strong proof of that fact. As for the blood, that’ll easily be confirmed by a blood test. Emi, if you would?” She kneels down immediately, taking a small kit that reminds you of an empty makeup kit as she gathers the few drops. “After checking this against the hospital’s data, I expect a positive match.” Huh. That’d be pretty good.

Suddenly, Emi lights up. “Alrighty! Soooo...does that mean that I get to drive th-”

“No,” he says flatly, immediately killing her good mood. “It means we’re going to ask Mavara a few questions. The question, however, is where the individual in question is...”

“Think he went off towards his trailer, right? Miiight’ve been a better idea to keep an eye on him, but if he ran, that’d be as good as a confession, I think,” Emi opines. “Let’s go find him!” You can’t disagree with that- any of it- so off you all go.

As you pass by Stage 2, however, you notice Platty coming out of it. "Eh? Where you all headed to now?"

"The actors' trailers," Alired says simply. "We might have a few things to ask Mr. Mavara."

Platty just grits his teeth. "That so? Well, the place is gated off. I got access, though. Follow me."

"Wait, where's Ms. Nia and Mr. Rush?" Emi asks. "Thought they'd have wanted to get in on this."

"Nia's holdin' Rush's feet to the fire in the control room back there. They'll be along," he says.

You CAN hear a loud voice in there. Sounds like she's reading him the riot act. "Ah. Right, then."

He nods in agreement. "Mhm. Follow me, if ya please. Only got the one keycard."

>Roll 2d100, best of three.
>Other

Rolled 97, 14 = 111 (2d100)

>>4986382

Rolled 25, 51 = 76 (2d100)

>>4986382

Rolled 67, 61 = 128 (2d100)

>>4986382

Very impressive result, decent one.

Writing! Last one for tonight because sadly, work tomorrow.

>>4986382
>>4986389
>>4986398
>>4986401
The trailers, as you’re just now discovering as you cross the gated boundary into the lot, are rather impressive, being honest; double and one even triple-wide trailers! It’s practically its own neighborhood...and a small part of you is kinda cursing that you never actually took a look at your own. You hate to admit it, but it’s probably better than your actual apartment. Maybe you can spare some time...

However, it’s not so much that you completely lose track of your goal, and as you keep your eye on Platty, you can see that...well, you’re not entirely certain, but he does look a touch anxious. Moreso than you’ve seen out of him so far, that is. “Now, Mavara’s one o’ the bigger stars, so he gets the bigger trailer,” he explains to you all as you walk down the makeshift street. “There he is. On the left there.”

And oh boy, is it a big one. Double-wide, with sky blue siding, the place looks like an astounding home, really. You wouldn’t be surprised if he lived there most days. You really need to see your own…

“Usually he’s still up and about around now, so- ah.” He says that as the individual in question opens the doorway, and indeed, he’s coming outside- with a few sheets of paper, no less. His script? You can’t see from this distance, but he takes a look at the lot of you-

And you can see the panic in his eyes. An all too familiar look. That of the guilty, and trying to decide whether it’s worth the effort to run or not.

It’s that moment of hesitation that allows Alired to call out. “Mr. Mavara! Fortunate timing.” Emi bounds ahead chirping hellos- likely to dissuade him from running and looking more suspicious that he might appear to be. You wonder if Alired also saw it in his eyes… “We were hoping to talk with you about some possible theories of mine regarding the criminal.”

“...ah. Uh…” Hm. For an actor, he’s not great at keeping his cool.

“Something wrong, Mr. Mavara? You seem nervous. Unusually so for an actor.” Huh. Deja vu. Emi’s near him now, and you can see the predatory look on her face as she half turns to you, practically latching onto his arm as you all walk up. “There’s no need to fear, unless I suppose you’re in the middle of an act right now…” Blatant.

But it gets the desired effect, you think. “H-hey, I got nothing to do with anything!”

“That, I highly doubt,” he says easily. “We have confirmation that you paid a visit to somewhere you, frankly, had little reason to, this night. And so, we'd like to ask a few questions.”

(Continued tomorrow, hopefully.)

>>4986281
I thought your point was this wouldn't work in quest format in general. And I was talking about the option to bring her along at the start of the previous thread - nobody voted for that one.

>>4986140
I for one am enjoying this a lot. But timezones mean I rarely participate so I'm mostly just lurking the threads.

>>4986577

"Like what?" Mavara responds shakily.

“Stage 3,” he begins unceremoniously. “We found footprint remnants that only track with your size and direction,” he explains. “Mr. Rush, fortunately for him, was ruled out as their creator due to Platty’s own witnessing him in the timeframe allotted for the crime, as well as Ms. Nia.”

“You sure about that? Why on earth would I go there?” he asks harshly. “Stage’s 3’s a ghost house right now.”

“Indeed it is,” Alired explains. “Which is why it was the perfect spot to meet Miss Leona secretly.”

“W-what? This is insane. Heck, it’s slander! Or at least reckless accusations! Why would I even do that!?” Why indeed…

“A good question. And I’ll answer it.” Mavara almost seemed physically struck by that. “It’s because you wanted to talk to her.” Wait, so was he the one who wrote that? “About something personal.”

“The heck? That’s...I hardly know her!” he retorts. You’re honestly a bit shocked. Mavara seemed like an entirely fine guy when you met him back then, but this is...well, it’s almost like he’s a different person. “If I wanted to talk with her about her job or something, then I’d have just put in a complaint.”

“Fair enough. But was the subject matter truly your job?” He asks simply.

“What do you mean?” he asks worriedly. “What else IS there?”

“Simple. You had other matters to discuss with her. ROMANTIC matters,” he said simply. “Namely, the rekindled romance between her and Mr. Rush.”

“You…” you didn’t think he could blanche, but blanche he did. It’s not a good look. “...that isn’t…”

“It is,” he interjects. “In fact, it ‘is’ enough to say that you were very much NOT a fan of them attempting to make up. Is that true?”

“I…look, Ms. Nia can back me up! I didn’t have anything to do with anything! I was rehearsing!” Huh. That seems...a bit unlikely.

“Is that so?” Alired seems to think similarly. “Then, you wouldn’t mind if we call her?” He already has his phone out- and you’re reminded that they apparently know each other. It’s still a mystery as to HOW, though.

He quickly punches in her number, and there’s a moment of tense silence- before you hear a ringing tone in duplicate. For a moment, you’re confused, before- “Turn that off. I’m right here.”

(cont.)

>>4988011
You all turn to see a sight you didn’t expect; Nia, floating just off the ground with folded arms- and floating next to her in a pink aura is an unconscious Rush. Her glare is smoking, and the subtle aurora flashing across her sternum tells how miffed she is. “I expected better than this,” she says in a cold voice. “This kind of manipulation attempt is...so basic.”

“Huh?” Mavara seems confused, all of a sudden.

“Not you- I’m going to get to YOU later. I’m talking about Platty.” And she fixes her fiery gaze on the individual in question, who actually SHRINKS from his gaze. “HOW long have you been here? And you really, REALLY had the gall…” She grabs the floating Rush by the collar, in showcase and in threat. “...to think that a subliminal signal would work on ME. ME, of ALL PEOPLE?!” Wait, what?

“Hm. So THAT was the method he used…” Alired idly considers as you try to wrap your head around what just happened and what she just said. “I had my hypothesis, but I wasn’t certain yet. But that does explain a few things. As for the rest-” here he turns to Mavara; but you just recognize it before he does as the actor ELBOWS Emi in a sudden panic that takes her off guard, sending her sprawling to the ground as he takes off in a panicked run, to the yelling and shock of everyone else. Platty looks like he wants to as well- but he doesn’t make any attempt.

You...honestly? You’re speechless.

That’s a financially dead man. He’s running from an Authorized Investigator, on the Intersection like it’ll do any good. He’ll be in enforced debt for decades, if not centuries.

>...but you’re gonna chase after him anyway. You don’t have your powers here, but it’ll still look good to the brass.
>...he’ll be caught in good time. You REALLY want to figure out what the hell was going on here.
>Other

>>4988012
>...but you’re gonna chase after him anyway. You don’t have your powers here, but it’ll still look good to the brass.
I was gonna say that it's not worth the air and time since he's finished anyway, but ALWAYS confirm the kill. And this will also up our rating in Nia and the investigators' eyes.
We can always ask Alired/Nia for the whole truth of this case later, but every second wasted is time for Mavara to become more unpredictable. Rush and Platty are already taken care of, but Mavara has no one but us.

I remember that our power still work here no? Case in point is the roller derby match where we used Overchannel and Sticky Blast. They're dampened but usable, so if anyone vote to use them consider me in.

>>4988012
>...but you’re gonna chase after him anyway. You don’t have your powers here, but it’ll still look good to the brass.

>>4988030
So Platty was conspiring with Mavara after all and showed him how to use hologram controls and use subliminal signals to fuck around with someone's mind. It's likely that this unorthodox use of holograms caused glitches - that's why projectors in Stages 2 and 3 had problems with them. And since Mavara isn't as skillful as Platty it's likely he messed up and caused too much damage to Leona's brain. I'm not sure, but I think that they made a hologram Equipment Storage to make her think that she just conked out while working and planned to move her there from the start, and even when the plan didn't work out as they intended they still went with it. But this doesn't explain her weird behavior - maybe they have been using subliminal signals on her several times over the last 3 month?
>Roller Derby Match
We used 'sticky mana' that time, 'sticky blast' is a sticky bomb. I still don't get how our powers are supposed to work in the Intersection, there was a mention of some sort of fields or areas where the use of powers is allowed but I don't remember its name or when exactly it was mentioned.
>>4986382
I guess these 2d100s were Nia's and Rush's mental saving throws?

>>4988012
>>4988030
That reminds me.
>Activate Mental Barrier
Never hurts to be overprepared. Don't wanna get mindpunched near the finish line.
And yeah we used sticky mana back then.

>>4988012
>>4988063
Sure, we try that
>Activate Mental Barrier
I seriously regret asking the Director about the paper. It was a link to another case yet at least two anons tried to tie it to this one. Nia IS our lead for investigating the larger conspiracy but she clearly shouldn't be on the suspect list for this case.

>>4988012
>...but you’re gonna chase after him anyway. You don’t have your powers here, but it’ll still look good to the brass.
>Activate Mental Barrier

>>4988099
They were, yes.

Also, to clarify: The Intersection largely nulls or stabilizes powersets. Miranda and co. CANNOT do remotely the same things as she can out in the field. There are buildings and areas that are 'shielded' from this effect with specialized tools, however, allowing for people to draw on the majority of their powers as normal.

>>4988425
Was Roller Derby arena shielded from this effect? What about our HQ's training rooms?

>>4989047
Yes to both. In fact, I'm pretty sure I explicitly said that your training rooms have shielding.

Writing!

>>4988012
>>4988030
>>4988063
>>4988104
>>4988131
>>4988250
...Yeah, no, you’re chasing after him anyway. If anything, it might give you a nice thumbs up from the Investigator; generally they take a dim view of running for obvious reasons, and it’s just good exercise. You might not have your powers out in the open like this, but that doesn’t mean you can’t put up a good chase!

Which is why you take off maybe a second or two behind him- he’s not that far away thank goodness- considering his lead, it’d be worrying if he didn’t have a number of obstacles to weave around, and as he rounds a corner, you hear a yelp, and then rapid footsteps. He’s stumbled over something, and you push yourself even harder. As you round the corner yourself, you can see him dashing for the exit, the cause of the trip being some lawn ornaments- shining like miniature balls- or maybe planets in makeshift front concrete ‘lawn’.

>Roll 1d100, best of three.
>Other

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>4992723

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>4992723
No powers at all then.

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>4992723
Can't we just chuck the lawn balls at 'im?

>>4992739
Yes.

>>4992723
>>4992734
>>4992736
>>4992739
For a trained actor, he’s clearly not very athletic; or at least, you can tell that running for extended distances isn’t his strong suit. You, on the other hand, well...physical enhancements or not, you’re pretty sure you’d have been able to at least keep up with him. You’re honestly a bit surprised when you actually notice you’re GAINING ground on the bastard; he tries to trip you up by slamming the gates towards you as he makes a break for the actual film lot, but you’re a bit to limber for that- you swing around them and he takes off yet again.

Another moment as you’re nearly within tackling distance forces you to back off a bit as he’s quick to jump over a set of crates- no clue what’s in them- and just beyond that, he nearly slams into a massive hanging camera; likely set there in preparation for shooting. He just barely gets around it, as well as a table set out with various cups and small jugs- likely refreshment prep for shooting.

He tries to turn a corner, but nearly slips- this is your opportunity!

>Grab something and try to brain him to be certain.
>You just need one last burst of speed…
>Other

>>4994257
>Grab something and try to brain him to be certain.

>>4994257
>You just need one last burst of speed…
Pretty sure they don’t want the culprit to get brain damage before confessing to the crime.

>>4994257
>>You just need one last burst of speed…

>>4994257
>You just need one last burst of speed…
While I'm wholly against augmentations, they are useful for rare situations like this, when we don't have access to magic.

Writing!

File: zora botw.png (620 KB, 488x750)

620 KB PNG

>>4994257
>running for extended distances isn’t his strong suit
well, he's some sort of shark-man after all. His body is probably not built for that.
#75
>“Hey.” You quickly turn around to see a large, sharkfaced being with a black mask on. He’s dressed in similar leathers as you are, though he’s got some kind of symbol on his chest. “Said you were an Outgoer, right?” You nod. “Cool. I’m Mavara, I’m playin’ Letch, so I’m gonna be the guy who tosses ya in the aftermath.

>>4994257
>>4994276
>>4994280
>>4994288
You strain your muscles to put on one last burst of speed- you can tell he’s wearing out, but if he starts trying to get squirrely, then that’s all the worse for your own purposes…

You can hear him gasping for breath, and just as he’s about to throw himself into a doorway, you take the shot, lunging as best you can and throwing your own body into his to keep him from getting away. You can feel a dull pain on impact, and for a moment your sight jumbles up and down- but you have enough experience to recognize that you’ve tackled him, and you shift your body weight upon landing to do your best to get the big guy underneath you. You scramble for a chokehold, but it’s almost unnecessary- the groan he lets out tells you that he’s had enough, or at least is too hurt to continue the chase.

There’s a moment of quiet, the both of you laying there, and you can hear Nia’s indignant voice already. Seems like she wasn’t that far behind you…

“...went way too far…” he mutters. Yeah, he did, but you’re not going to badger him about it right now. You’re sure that it’ll all get out in the open sooner than later.

-----------

Nia is the first to arrive, but she’s shortly followed by Alired. Apparently, Emi’s staying back for whatever reason. “And so it’s come to this,” the investigator says as he levels a stern look at the actor. “But for whatever reason? Why did you do it?”

Mavara grunts, looking away as best he can- your arms are still around his throat. “I...it wasn’t nothin’ personal, just...we’d been doin’ damn good, and Rush is a good fella. I heard they’d broken up, and it was her fault, then all of a sudden she’s trying to hook back up with him? I wasn’t buyin’ it. And then for a while they’d been ruinin’ themselves tryin’ to run around with all this emotional crap, and I thought it was better if they just...went their separate ways. Platty agreed when I was complainin’ to him, and, well...we kinda set this up. Just some help to see that maybe it wasn’t worth it. Didn’t take quite as well as we’d hoped, though, so I figured I’d try something more direct.”

“But you disdained it enough to attack the young lady?” Alired asks cooly.

“Hey now, I didn’t attack no one!” Mavara says to your surprise. “I- that was just supposed to be a bit of a scare game; I’d just meet her behind the studio, talk some sense into ‘er! She’s the one what freaked out and slipped!” Huh? Slipped?! “So when she passed out, I panicked a bit, and, well...I knew she wasn’t supposed to be in Studio 3, so…”

“You brought her to the warehouse.” Alired confirms.

“I told Platty first, and he helped me with wiping the systems,” he admits. “I knew it was gonna be on me if anyone found out direct. Tried to clean things up as best we could, but...”

...you kinda want to slap him for such a stupid motive. In fact, you just might.

>Wait, you’ve got more questions. (What?)
>“So, what happens to them now? Tribunal or no?” You’d really rather not.
>Other

>>4994482
>"So, what happens to them now? Tribunal or no?” You’d really rather not.
Enough, this is so stupid. Especially when some anons jumped to conclusion that it was something bigger. What was going on with holoprojector then, if it all happened behind the dumpster?

>>4994492
I don't buy that she just slipped and conked herself out, her weird behavior and the time period which is missing from her memory seems too specific. BUT. This is no longer our business. It's investigators' job to sort this out.

>>4994482
>“So, what happens to them now? Tribunal or no?” You’d really rather not.
>"I'll be frank, just slipping doesn't result in months of memory lost. There's also her weird behavior."

I think I want to tap in a quick job to wash ourselves off after this. It has been long.

>>4994500
If it was just an accident they wouldn't try mindcontrolling their boss and coworkers.
Tbh I'm just mad that we wasted a month on a girl who slipped up and hit her head.

>>4994482
not buying it myself, so let's call them out >>4994505>>4994507

>>4994505
Miranda's too busy to go on missions at the moment: we still have to send kids back to Care House, pick up Pecker, participate in the Roller Derby and help Izumi's friend. And even if Mavara had a major role in the movie, the filming will go on - Nia said so, and Mavara was not necessary for every scene.
If we want to go on a mission then we should switch to another character. Although I strongly suggest doing a couple of things first before we do that - dump all the loot from the last job (still have to pick what are we giving to be researched, what to share with our team and what should be sold - should've done this right after the mission) and do a group training session (consider it a prep for the next mission). That way whoever we choose to switch to will be better prepared for the job. desu compared to other SES members Miranda has several times more techniques than them. At this point she should be teaching them instead of learning new techniques.

>>4994482
>>4994492
>>4994505
>>4994511
Not to mention, you’re not buying it- and from how Alired looks, neither does he. “So, what happens to them now?” you ask the man. “Tribunal or no?” You’d really rather not, but at this rate…

“Hmph. It’s unfortunate he’d try to lie to me so thoroughly. It appears as though a Tribunal will indeed have to be called.” You can tell by how the suspect- Mavara- stills, that he loathes such happening. “Unless he were to reveal all in custody before it happens...but he will have to be taken in, nonetheless.”

“Shit, shit shit shit- look, I-” he starts, but is quickly shushed by Nia.

“Oh, no you don’t! You had your shot to spill it here and now. Well, if you were worried about your career...DON’T be. There’ll be others, and your role can be...written around.” She says that so ominously it’s impressive. Even Alired looks at her askance briefly, before resuming his impressively neutral expression. “It seems like we’ll be in the market for another Technician, too.”

“Indeed. I suspect he has more to tell than it may seem at first glance.” Alired agrees.

“Yeah,” you agree. “I'll be frank, just slipping doesn't result in months of memory lost. There's also her weird behavior." And more besides, but you don’t think you’re interested in much else on this front.

“Xia’s gonna slap me around for this crap,” Nia grumbles. “But at this rate there’s too much going on.”

“Am I going to be expected to show up for this?” you ask up front as Alired steps up. He has a strange pair of cuffs with him. These are quickly slapped on him- and you’re quick to see what they’re for, as he seems to slump down almost immediately, as though boneless. Right. Quick debilitation.

“Unlikely, as you had little exposure to the crime, and we know who the culprits are. Your mental recollection will be unnecessary.” Oh...thank fuck. That was the last thing you wanted. He turns to Nia. “My apologies for not being able to resolve this quicker. However, I’m afraid that as far as Tribunal appearances go, YOU, on the other hand…”

To your surprise, instead of looking afraid, she just looks...frustrated. Annoyed, even. “Damnit.” She looks at Mavara, clearly frustrated and sad at how everything’s turned out. “I REALLY hope you start talking to the people in charge later,” she growls out. Mavara, for his part, just sighs. It almost seems like he can’t even talk right now.

(cont.)

>>4994593
“Well. With Emi having kept Platty dealt with...while the situation is not resolved, I think we can say that we’re done for the night,” he concludes. “Ms. Styles, I have to say, you’ve been surprisingly helpful. You were fully cooperative, proved willing to question falsities in the face of justice...you also have my thanks for moving as you did to detain this individual. It would’ve been troublesome were he to get much further. I’ll be sure to note your assistance in my report, as well as perhaps a bit of recompense.”

Wait, recompense? “How?”

He shrugs. “Well, financially, I’d presumed, but I suppose another minor token of my appreciation wouldn’t go amiss. Is there anything you’d been after?”

...huh. That wasn’t what you were expecting, but it COULD be very useful. He DID say ‘minor’, though, so probably best to not dream too big…

>Any suggestions?

>>4994594
>I'll call you later.
So we've completed all hidden objectives for this sidequest and now has a favor/contact with a high ranking investigator. This is worth it in the end I guess.
We aren't strapped for cash at the moment so let's just bag the favor imo.

>>4994594
>Any suggestions?
>There's an issue I'd like to discuss in private.
>I'll call you later.

>>4994631
I don't expect him to solve our problem with whoever was collecting data on smaller Outgoer groups, but it'd be nice if he could share a bit of info or give some advice.

>>4994633
This. Supportin

>>4994594
>>4994631
+

>>4994540
>>4994505
Miranda also owes Susie a favor and has to visit Guild of Shadow's HQ. And we still haven't rewarded Gartoum for his help in the last mission.

>>4994505
all of this has been comparatively small when you check the literal year long missions that we have done

Run will be attempted in about 2 hours or so. Late night run, that is.

>>4994594
>>4994621
>>4994631
>>4995030
It’s a bit of thinking, but you really only have one major issue that you’d like help with. How MUCH help he’ll be with it is...questionable. But, you might as well try it. “There’s something I’d like to discuss with you later, then, if that’s okay. In private.”

He raises an eyebrow at it, but nods. “Very well. If it’s a personal matter, then I’ll agree to it. I shouldn’t have to say that I’ll only agree to LEGAL favors, do I?”

“As far as I know, it’s entirely legal,” you say confidently. “I’ll call you about it.”

“Is that so? Alright then- as you say.” And with that, he lets the matter drop. The man is carted away, and Mavara doesn’t even try to fight, it seems. The will’s been utterly sapped out of him, seems like.

Only Nia’s left, and she’s just scowling. Without warning, she looks to you. “You never DID get your script, did you?” You shake your head, and she sighs in frustration. “This has all been a massive stupid mess. We’re gonna be delayed EVEN MORE because of this! We’re going to have to find some way to do what we can for filming while we try to rewrite as little as possible.”

Wait. “...so...I’m NOT getting my script tonight, then?”

“Get outta here.” Right, that’s a no. Fuck, this whole damn trip was...well, no. It wasn’t WORTHLESS, you suppose…

But you’re still annoyed.
-----------------

The day rises, and you’re still in a funk- which isn’t really great considering you have kids to feed and things to do. While the morning is filled with waffles and talks about what they want to do today, you notice that Tami seems to be playing with that yarn ball again. The little ox-puppet she has currently strung up with it is...well, she’s good at that, at least. Magic or no magic.

Harpsicorie seems a bit muted, and Noran and Mewla seem interested in something between them, whispering between mouthfuls (how that tiny fairy eats so much waffle, you aren’t sure). Before you can ask what, however, they turn to you. “Hey, can we go to the park today?” Noran asks. “Mewla wanted to meet some friends there.”

Harpsicorie seems to jerk at that, and turns to you as though to protest, but remains quiet ultimately. She doesn’t seem to be too torn up about it, though…

Tami almost seems entirely dismissive, although you can’t blame her- she’s practically trying to practice her puppeteering and eat at the same time- it’s the third time you’ve told her to knock it off. At any rate, while the park seems reasonable, there are other things to be done today- you're still waiting on that call from Susie, for example. And that's not all...

>Fine. You guess a park day is reasonable. You could use it.
>Actually, you were hoping to handle some business today. (What?)
>Harpsicorie, you looked like you wanted to say something.
>Other

>>5000398
>“You never DID get your script, did you?”
but we got a copy from the Director!

>>5000400
Did we? Huh. I thought I didn't put that in. Well, ignore that bit.

>>5000398
>>Harpsicorie, you looked like you wanted to say something.
>Send a message to our coworkers for an HQ meeting tomorrow
We still have to do something about our loot. Also these kids have been with us 4 days straight, no?
>>5000405
Yeah, then we asked him about paper and that's how it became an annoying red herring

>>5000398
>>5000407
This, time to take care of our loot and dumb the test results on the nerds.

Harp probably noticed we were missing for half of the night

>>5000428
because her bed is in Miranda's room while Tami's and Noran's are in the living room

>>5000407
They have, just about.

>>5000398
>>5000407
+

Writing!

>>5000398
>>5000407
>>5000419
>>5000447
“Well, let’s see…” you mutter as a response. You really need to go ahead and get some actual team business done. There’s a lot you need to get straight- not the least of which is all your spoils of war essentially gathering dust. You need to make use of those additions you got back in the day and start selling properly. Likely the other girls will have stuff they want to junk or sell off, too. So with that in mind, you fire off a general notification via FutureSight and standard cellphone, just to be safe; ‘All-Hands Meeting tomorrow morning; hardware maintenance and accounting.’ Should get the message across well enough.

And as for issues closer to you… “Harp.” she looks back at you in surprise, but she should’ve known this was coming by now. “You looked like you wanted to say something. What is it?”

Naturally, she almost looks scandalized, though Tami and the others look up in interest. “Oh. Uhhh, me? It’sss nothing,” she half-hisses. “I jussst...I wass kinda hopin’ that sssince Tami got help for her puppet thing...maaaybe I could get help with, um...whatever I was gonna do.” Her voice seemed to falter and wither down the end stretch there. “But I dunno for sure what I wanna do asss an Outgoer so maybe nevermind?” Ah, and now she’s trying to play it off.

“Well, heck, maybe we can do THAT at the park!” Noran suggests, to Mewla’s...well, you can’t tell, though you imagine by the lack of eager flying that she’s at least neutral about the idea.

Tami, on the other hand, seems all for it. “Ooh, yeah! We could try out trainin’ stuff for practice! Y’could figure out what you want, an’ that’d be cool!”

Well, then. Guess that’s something to do. Although now that that’s settled, there’s another question to be had. “Which park did you want to go to?”

At once they all look up. “There’s more than one?” they all ask in unison. Wow.

(cont.)

>>5000517
“Well...yeah,” you state. “I mean, they’re not all greenery and all that, but there’s a couple to choose from.”

“Oh.” Again, in unison. You’re kinda surprised. And vaguely weirded out. But, they were quick to explain that the park they’d been speaking of was:

>Ripside Play Park, an indoor youth sports focused park within the Festival District. It has several courts for various types of team games, a miniature playground for the babies, and most notably, an area for skating, skateboarding and similar sports. Why Mewla is meeting her friends HERE is a mystery, but this place is a popular choice for those that want to practice in just about whatever sport they wish, big or small.
>Lunaluna Memorial Park, a more traditional green park, named obviously in honor of Lunaluna Grace, who, no, isn’t dead. It’s mostly known for its honestly rather pretty arrangement of ‘Moonglow Buds’, flowers from her homeland that she had on her before she arrived. They’re unique and glow with a subtle light, as well as supposedly have a ‘dark-repelling power’ when not under the Intersection’s influence. It’s VERY illegal to try to snip them, though.
>Firelight Park, a second park that’s really not as big; it’s mostly concrete and meant to be for casual civilian exercise, with a running track, weight area, muscle ‘beach’ type area, and more. It’d be a decent place to train...well, for anyone not children, though you think there’s a kids’ area there as well. There’s also a pool, and a small indoor area for meetups and parties and whatnot.

>>5000518
>Lunaluna Memorial Park
I have a personal liking for serene places like these, also another chance to expand on another big name of the city. Have a slight hunch that random encounters here will be more interesting.

>>5000518
>Ripside Play Park

>>5000518
>>Lunaluna Memorial Park

>>5000518
>Lunaluna Memorial Park

Writing! To Lunaluna Park we go.

>>5000518
>>5000529
>>5000560
>>5000573
The park is fairly traditional in style, which makes sense enough, you figure. Lunaluna Grace was...well, you don’t know a ton about her, but what little you skimmed earlier makes it seem like she was very humanitarian (or whatever you call it when it’s not just humans involved). Struck you as more of a project person than an Outgoer, really, but apparently she was, is beloved all the same and got this neat park named after her for her efforts. From the looks of it, a reasonably sized statue, too. If the design is any accurate, she was more of a monk-ish, or maybe priestly or paladin type, in full robes, with a beaming smile and armor chest gear. Who knows what she’s up to nowadays, though- she, like many of the major oldies, is a bit of a recluse. You SWEAR you’d heard her name in some news piece or another, but what it was escapes you. At any rate, none of your issue right now.

“Alrighty, we’re here. I don’t think I need to warn you to keep out of the Moonglow Garden?” you ask; the area is gated off, you’d learned, but still fairly easily accessible to the public.

“Yes, ma’am!” they all say at once.

“Good. So, Noran, Mewla, you said you had somewhere to be, right?” You begin looking around, but if there’s any fairies around, they aren’t being conspicuous, though there’s a good number of parkgoers.

“Yup! Mewla said they’d be round abouts...over that way!” He points towards a small bump in the land near a picnic table; you don’t see anyone sitting or glowing on it or anything. “Said they’d be hanging on the hill!” Ah. That’d explain it.

“Aaaaand in the meantime, us two can start intense, super cool talks about what you wanna try ta do so you can be an Outgoer!” Tami cheers as she grabs Harp’s hand. “C’mon, I bet we can get a ton of inspiration if we walk around first!” Right. Considering how public this place is, you expect they’ll be alright if they split up, all things considered...but do you really want them to?

>Nope, nope, they’re staying together. End discussion. Everyone can hang about near the table near the fairies.
>Fine. So long as they all come back here, you’ll take a bit of a stroll around yourself.
>They can split up, you guess, but you’re at least sticking with (Noran and Mewla / Harp and Tami.)
>Other

>>5000648
>>Fine. So long as they all come back here, you’ll take a bit of a stroll around yourself.

>>5000648
>>Fine. So long as they all come back here, you’ll take a bit of a stroll around yourself.
We don't understand fairy language (even inside the Intersection, which is kinda weird) and it looks like Tami want to have a pep talk with Harp. Might as well spend some time relaxing after the events of this night.

>>5000648
>Fine. So long as they all come back here, you’ll take a bit of a stroll around yourself.
A monk type, unexpected with that kinda name. Maybe not a traditional one since she still uses armor, but some kind of battle cleric. I remember that she popped up when we were helping the kids out with their homework thing.

>>5000648
>They can split up, you guess, but you’re at least sticking with Harp and Tami.

Writing!

>>5000648
>>5000689
>>5000695
>>5000750
Well, all things considered, you might as well let ‘em do as they please. “Alright. I trust you all know the general rules. Don’t go too far, don’t talk to strangers, ‘cause they might sell you phony stuff, don’t start fights you can’t finish. We meet back here in about an hour?” A resounding chorus of ‘yes’ comes from them, and with that they split off to do as their little hearts desire. You, in the meantime, decide to take a stroll. Lunaluna Park was in one of the areas on the outskirts of the Learner’s District; between it and the Learner’s District, more in the general civilian suburban area between the primary district centers. The statue is the centerpiece, you think, though there’s a walking path that loops the majority of the park...might as well take a stroll and see what there is to see.

You can hear a number of people as well as light music off in the distance; sounds like there's some sort of event going on. There rarely isn't SOMEWHERE, you suppose.

>Roll 1d100, best of three.

Rolled 94 (1d100)

>>5001484

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>5001484

Rolled 47 (1d100)

>>5001484
Fortune smiles on us again

...huh. Well then.

Writing!

>>5001484
>>5001486
As you take a jog- a light one, more for keeping yourself moving at a decent pace than anything else- the sounds of commotion are getting louder as you get closer. Not only that, though- a few nice smells come across your senses as well. Seems like there’s a bit of a cookout happening, too. Hot dogs, you think at the very least, and probably much more besides.

As you round a bushy corner, the area comes into full view; on the grass is indeed a number of people of all sorts; most of them wearing some type of hood that makes you think ‘cult’ for a moment, but then it’s clear that it’s just a theme- there’s people wearing normal hoodies, caps, basically any headwear that could theoretically be called a ‘hood’. And as you suspected, there’s a number of grills working hard away at cooking a number of meats and other foods as they mingle and talk. What particularly catches your attention, however, is the person sitting in the center of it all- and it’s very obvious there’s a center, considering how the one person seems to have something of an invisible ‘barrier’ where precious fewer people seem to be risking getting closer to her, although she seems to be talking animatedly with a couple of them. But you have to admit, you weren’t expecting this. Not considering you just saw her figure in stone.

Guess your figuring on Lunaluna Grace being reclusive was a big fat non-truth. Considering she seems to be out here without issue. Whatever she’s discussing, she seems to be...well, ‘intense’ is the best word for it- you can’t quite read her expression otherwise, as she’s very calm-faced.

>...this is one of those opportunities that you can’t pass up. You have to at least say hi, right?
>...maybe you should just appreciate from the outside. This seems to be a specific community thing.
>Other

>>5001554
>...this is one of those opportunities that you can’t pass up. You have to at least say hi, right?
She's right there! Not just a regular A ranker, she's one of the crème de la crème. You don't get to meet those every day.

>>5001554
>...this is one of those opportunities that you can’t pass up. You have to at least say hi, right?
Time for some delicious (heh) networking

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>>5001554
>>...this is one of those opportunities that you can’t pass up. You have to at least say hi, right?
Miranda's jacket has a hood>>4982139, so if they offer to join we've got that part covered.

>>5001554
>...this is one of those opportunities that you can’t pass up. You have to at least say hi, right?
Got to ask her about her moon powers, seeing as Miranda has powers related to stars.

>>5001554
>>5001557
>>5001563
>>5001565
>>5001611
...you’d be an idiot to ignore this. She’s one of the big names- literally in the history books. NOT taking this chance, as rude as it might come off, would probably get you slapped by Lorelei. And maybe even a disappointed look from Izumi though you don’t think she’d actually say anything. No, you have to at least say hello. From one Outgoer to another, if nothing else, right? You’re admittedly a bit more concerned than you might be otherwise considering your lack of access to powers, but, then...she’s in the same boat, right?

No, no. Enough stalling. You take a deep breath, and begin the walk across the grass. It doesn’t seem like anyone notices- at first. But then you notice a few eyes starting to turn to you in curiosity. Of those, no one says anything for the moment, however; they seem as though they want to, but no one seems to be willing to take the plunge. People seem nervous, but no one stands in your way as you get closer. You can’t be sure of it, but as you break into the artificial no man’s land between the majority crowd and the living legend, you find yourself...well.

At a loss for words.

It’s in that moment she turns to you, gracefully cutting off the conversation with whoever she was talking with. When she locks eyes with you, you get a feeling of...power. It might just be you psyching yourself out, but you feel...less...in her presence. A dim part of you has to laugh at the irony considering she’s supposed to be all for the citizens, and yet you feel like you should be bowing or something. Another part of you is kinda disgusted you even have THAT feeling.

Nonetheless, she seems to smile easily, and with a wave of her hand, invites you forwards. “Hello there. You don’t look like a member of the fanclub.” Her voice is a rich tenor, with clear enunciation and power- regal, dare you say. “And I don’t think you’re just here for the food, hm?” Her lips twitch slightly, as though she didn’t want to laugh at her own joke. “Come. Sit down, since you made the walk over. You looked nervous.”

You're already moving- it's almost impossible to refuse an offer like that, but your mouth almost starts moving before you can register the fact...

>...sonofa...what DO you say?

That'll be it for now, give people time to think of questions and topics and whatnot. I'll resume tomorrow.

>>5001623
Oh boy, what's our opener?
Can't lose our spaghetti right at this moment, so don't ask about the weather.

>>5001623
>Sure, thanks for the offer. I'm Miranda.
I don't know much about cookout culture, same goes for religious feasts.

>>5001623
>"Just ...surprised, ma'am. It's not everyday you get to meet a living legend."
>"My thanks for the offer."
>introduce ourselves politely
>"Do you do events like this often?"
>inquire more about the Moonglow Buds. Ask about its' history/power/etc.

Now, she's a Lawful Good type, which tends to respond well to casual exchanges. But we're in the spotlight and a respected bigshot just invited us to sit down, so let's just sit down, be casual and polite but at least show a fair amount respect without going into the sweet-talk territory.
Conversing about the cookout itself and the flowers is a safe bet, she has high opinions of them and she isn't here for Outgoers' related business, so I don't think deep Outgoer topics are decent here. Let her express herself through those subjects and we can go from there.

>>5001623
this one>>5001789

>>5001623
switching to>>5001789

>>5001623
>>5001789
+
For some reason I imagine her looking like a bubbly redhead.

Writing shortly.

>>5002172
Close.

>>5001623
>>5001789
>>5001892
>>5002009
>>5002172
"Just ...surprised, ma'am.” You suppose that’s not the worst starter- explaining yourself. “It's not everyday you get to meet a living legend."

She chuckles lightly at that, her light pink hair falling around her as she shakes her head. “No, I suppose not. Although I don’t know if I’d call myself a legend, really.” She pats the ground to the side of her- seems she’s forewent the tables for a more old-school blanket to sit on.

You nod, and gingerly sit down, giving a non-verbal hello to the two, three people around her who are just watching you with surprise- and maybe a bit of suspicion, if you were being honest. "My thanks for the offer. I’m Miranda Styles. B-” Wait, shit. Normally it’d be etiquette to give your company and rank, but this is clearly informal and just a get together. Would she find it annoying if you did that? “-e that as it may, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Phew, that was a smooth recovery, you think. “Sorry if I interrupted anything.”

Fortunately, none of them seem to take offense directly, shaking their heads and assuring you didn’t intrude on anything important. Even if they’re lying, it’s polite. “Oh, don’t worry. We were just talking about some local news. You know how it is.” She seems utterly unphased. And given she didn’t inquire as to your own employment, you have to think you made the right choice in not formally introducing yourself this time. “This is Eric, Shawna, and Malora,” she introduces. You note their faces, but they seem largely normal, save the last, who looks to be a lizard/frog person...with surprisingly luscious blond hair. Neat. They all give quiet hellos back, but it’s clear their attention is largely on Ms. Grace. “And what you’ve stumbled on is just a little appreciation lunch and meetup. They planned all of it, every single part, and I’m rather grateful for their effort.” She turns to look at the trio in question, who seem to get rather bashfully humble at the praise thrown their way.

(cont.)

>>5002590
“It seems nice,” you admit. “Do you do events like this often?"

“Oh, no, no,” she demurrs. “This...well, I’m not normally in the public eye nowadays, and even for this they had to do some rather heavy cajoling!” She says it with a wry grin, but her dimpled cheeks give away the humor she finds in it, as opposed to annoyance or offense. “I knew I needed to get out a bit anyway, so eventually I stopped fighting myself about it and said yes to being their Guest of Honor. It helped that they decided to hold it at this park.”

“Right, your Moonglow Buds.” Quite the mystery, those. “I bet you’ve gotten a lot of questions about ‘em today, huh?”

“Oh, no, they’ve been rather polite about it!” she says. “I had a couple of people ask as first, but everything got resolved sooner than later.”

“No questions about the Buds then, got it,” you say clearly. Damn shame, though. You were hoping…

“Well, they’re something of a city secret,” she admits. “It was...an agreement, for letting me bring something so important to me here.” Her smile turns to something more sardonic- an expression you weren’t expecting on her. “But then again, Outgoers know a lot about making heavy deals, wouldn’t you say?”

Huh. Fair.

>...although, how’d she figure you were an Outgoer?
>You know, you aren’t the first big name I’ve met recently…
>So, what are your days like now?
>Other

>>5002591
>...although, how’d she figure you were an Outgoer?
>So, what are your days like now?

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>>5002591
>"Of course, should have known you've recognized me as an Outgoer already."
>So, what are your days like now?
Silly girl, top A listers should know their younger colleagues by presence alone.

And now I can't stop thinking that she looks like this but with a pink, long mane.

>>5002591
>...although, how’d she figure you were an Outgoer?
>You know, you aren’t the first big name I’ve met recently…
Mab talked to her about us, I'm guessing? I'd assume the A+'s keep in touch, at least the ones that weren't thrown outside, anyway.

>>5002616
A bit shorter and not as dead eyed, and add a metal chestplate and you're not too far off.

>>5002591
>...although, how’d she figure you were an Outgoer?
>So, what are your days like now?

Closing it in 5 minutes.

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>>5002621
Oh my.
Did what I could.

>>5002591
>>5002605
>>5002616
>>5002618
>>5002628
She’s not wrong, although… “How’d you figure I was an Outgoer?” You aren’t horribly surprised, to be honest, but you still kind of want to know.

She chuckles, but it’s a bit low and devoid of any actual mirth to be comfortable. Even the others look on in concern. “Oh, nothing major. You had the same ‘guarded’ approach most Outgoers have. Always carefully taking your surroundings into account; your eyes were flickering to everyone to make body and threat assessments. A light step, ready to backpedal or jump off at a twitch. Guarded engagement of conversation, letting me lead, sticking more to questions and leading statements than following up with compared experiences…” the smile slips off to be replaced by something more somber. “It’s an unfortunate result of experience in that lifestyle. People who’ve spent a large part of their lives in the military before coming here tend to have similarities, but it’s more pronounced.” Oh...huh. You never actually noticed. “That, and I think I recognize your name.”

“Well, I guess that makes- wait, what?” That last bit tripped you up. She RECOGNIZED you? “Why would you know me?” The others seem to be just as surprised, judging by how they’re looking at you.

To your surprise, she SHRUGS. “I wonder, myself. Can’t quite place it, but I know I’ve heard it somewhere.” She doesn’t look too torn up about that fact, though. “But, I’m sure it’ll come to me eventually.”

“...right.” Not sure what to do with that. “I guess that happens to everyone. Like at the store or something…” Why do you feel SO out of your depth? “...So, what are your days like now?”

She chuckles again, this time a bit more deeply her teeth actually showing as her lips involuntarily split in mirth. “Oh, nothing major. I sew a lot. There’s so many ways to make things, but I find that sewing is just so satisfying, for me. Making my own garments fulfills me. Aside from that, I also spend time occasionally privately tutoring, and sometimes assisting with food gathering.” Wait, she’s a Hunting Dog? Well, maybe just call her Gatherer or something. But huh. Didn’t expect that. Aside from that, little this and thats, I suppose. But, hey, enough about me. You have any hobbies, yourself?” Well, that’s not unanswerable, you suppose…

(cont.)

>>5002682
“I mean, I-I like to ride around I guess,” you hazard, shrugging. “I mean, I have a hoverbike, so…there’s that. And I guess I’m getting into Extreme Roller Derby?” you hazard. You did kinda decide to do more in it…

“Oh, that’s a bit rough for me, but I appreciate the effort those girls put into it!” she decides. “About the most activity I do nowadays is the occasional spar when I’m not helping bring food in. Helps keep me in shape, y’know. But, anything else you do?”

Why do you feel so damned nervous. Fuck.

Wait, the kids. Maybe you should mention the kids, she’d like that. Or would she get pissed since you kinda let them go run around and aren’t watching them? Fuck.

>Mention the kids, go for brownie points. Maybe insist they’re good kids, trustworthy, all that.
>You spar too! That’s safe! You can keep on that subject for a bit!
>You guess you’re a bit of a cook…? At least, you seem to know more recipes than most of your friends…
>Other

>>5002662
Neat!

>>5002683
>Mention the kids, go for brownie points. Maybe insist they’re good kids, trustworthy, all that.
>You spar too! That’s safe! You can keep on that subject for a bit!
Oh nononono, this is an opportunity to learn from one of the best. She does private turtor sessions, and her magic and ours should nearly match in theme too. Not gonna deny this one.

>>5002683
>You spar too! That’s safe! You can keep on that subject for a bit!
>You guess you’re a bit of a cook…? At least, you seem to know more recipes than most of your friends…
I have waited a while for a chance to spar with one of these celebs.

>>5002683
>>Mention the kids, although it's a new territory to me
>You spar too! That’s safe! You can keep on that subject for a bit!

>>5002683
>Mention the kids, go for brownie points. Maybe insist they’re good kids, trustworthy, all that.
>You spar too! That’s safe! You can keep on that subject for a bit!
>Talk a bit about watching bad or obscure movies and making fun of them with friends. Get really deep into it before realizing we're showing our nerd side.

>>5002683
>>5002701
Oh right, we do love shitty movies

>>5002683
>>5002701
Sure, let's nerd out a bit.

>>5002705
>>5002707
>Lunaluna ends up remembering Miranda when she remembers her role in Nightmare Run 3

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Thread #89
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/4004903/#p4029883

>7: Lunaluna Grace- Moon-based heroine. Caused public works to skyrocket and was a major public leader. First and Last Representative of the Common People for The Intersection before the position was decided unnecessary.

There you have it. She's very much friends the common folk.
She should have heard of the major shakeups going around.

I wonder why that position was deemed unnecessary?

>>5003602
This partly explains why she also does food gathering work in the current days. A model citizen indeed.

>>5003602
Either there are no more "common people" anymore, the term got so overinclusive that it meant nothing, tor something happened and they stopped being second class citizens.

Im putting my money on the last point

>>5002683
>Mention the kids, go for brownie points. Maybe insist they’re good kids, trustworthy, all that.
>You spar too! That’s safe! You can keep on that subject for a bit!

>>5002683
>>5002686
>>5002694
>>5002697
>>5002701
>>5004519
“Well, I mean…” Come on, there’s something- why are you her- kids! Right, duh! “I’m doing a bit of mentorship at the moment. With some kids from the Care House.”

She brightens up at that, clearly approving. “Oh! That sounds lovely! It’s always good to help guide the youth and expand their horizons. In what respect, might I ask?”

“Well...Outgoing, really.” Huh. Now that you say it to her, you’re kinda feeling self-conscious...strange. You can see her smile fade a bit, but you carry on. “Not like I’m bringing them on actual jobs- that’s WAY too dangerous, and they’re...well, they’re little little kids. Actual children, not just young-bodied. Right now I’m just kinda giving them basic ideas of what’s expected, doing some fitness training, working on any magic they might have, and kinda just letting them feel out what being an Outgoer might be like. I DID let them do a trial run a while ago, but that was only with holotech, and in the OTC on the lowest difficulty.” Aaaand now you’re rambling.

Fortunately, she doesn’t seem too offended, or amused. “Ahh. I see. I suppose it’d be good to make sure that children understand the dangers properly. I recall hearing that the Care House was planning to start basic Outgoer curriculums, so it’s good that some practical tutoring is being given.”

“Yeah, exactly! I don’t want them to jump into the deep end without knowing how to swim,” you agree. “I’m slowly trying to get them into combat lessons, but I’m taking it slow. I kinda just spar in my own time anyway, too, so you know how sometimes it can be hard to hold back, right?” At least, you hope that’s the case.

Fortunately, she nods. “Right...when I was younger, I was much more zealous, and quick to offend and strike out. It took a great deal to learn to calm myself and approach things with a more measured eye and mind. A valuable lesson, that.” She turns to Malora, with an amused twinkle in her eye. “One that could be taken by a couple of people present.”

Malora has the good grace to blush. “I mean...easier said than done…” she mutters.

To which Luna chuckles lightly. “Indeed. But if I might ask,” she continues, turning back to you, “when will you next be with your students?” It’s an innocent question, but…

“Well, they wanted to come here to meet some friends. I escorted them, and well, I trust them to be alone for a bit. Didn’t seem like they wanted me nearby for a while anyway,” you dismiss, keeping as confident as you dare.

“Hm. Are you sure they’ll be alright?” She seems concerned. “I can’t help but be concerned…”

Well, you suppose that’s understandable, but…

(cont.)

>>5007071
“It’s just as well anyway,” Eric pipes up. “We’re probably going to be wrapping up here soon and sojouring off to our next stop for the day.”

“Next stop?” you ask.

“Yeah- we planned on starting and ending the day here, but we have a pretty full schedule,” Shawna explains. “We’re going to be taking a tour of a few places Ms. Grace helped establish, and discuss some possible plans for civil improvement we can undertake independently.”

Huh. That DOES sound like a lot. “Then, where are you off to next?”

“Unfortunately, that’s being kept private,” Malora says as Lunaluna looks away bashfully. “We don’t want a ton of onlookers and paparazzi and all that waiting for us, so only the people in the club know the schedule.”

> “An important thing for an Outgoer is trust. I trust them to be fine for a bit longer to talk to you.”
> “It’s probably a good idea to get going then, and make sure they aren’t in TOO much trouble.”
> “No way me and my kids could join in, then? They’d probably love to pick your brain about stuff.”
> Other

>>5007072
>> “It’s probably a good idea to get going then, and make sure they aren’t in TOO much trouble.”
Harp and Tami are probably done talking right now and I kinda want to sneak a peek at Mewla's friends.

>>5007072
> “No way me and my kids could join in, then? They’d probably love to pick your brain about stuff.”
I can't see why we can't do both. They'd be ecstatic to meet someone who's in the history books and this opportunity doesn't come up everyday.
I think getting more uninvited people into this private outing is a little rude, but she should be fine with taking in more of the younger generation.

>>5007080
>I think getting more uninvited people into this private outing is a little rude
I think it's quite rude, both to Lunaluna and her fanclub and the kids. Noran and Mewla had plans for this park trip and Luna's admirers certainly had to pull some strings and ask favors to get some space all for themselves in several places.

>>5007080
I also don't see what are we getting out of it. She's not going to teach us anything when we've got to look after the kids, her followers aren't interested in us and Harp needs some attention right now. Looks like we're getting into something when we haven't dealt with the old stuff.

>>5007072
I'm fine with either options but can we get an autograph or something similar? if we part ways

>>5007072
> “No way me and my kids could join in, then? They’d probably love to pick your brain about stuff.”
>Also, ask Lunaluna if she'd ever visited the Care House before for Career Day, back when she was more active in her philanthropic days. She might have gotten a dedication placard somewhere that we missed when we had just arrived, if not a whole section of the place.

>>5007129
>>5007104
Oh, and an autograph as well, too.

>>5007072
>>5007129>>5007104
Count me in.

Hello, all! Writing now.

>>5007072
>>5007080
>>5007104
>>5007129
>>5007547
It’s a bit rude, no doubt, but there’s an opportunity here you can’t dismiss. “No way me and my kids could join in, then?” You try to make sure you don’t look too eager or hopeful. “They did a report about important Intersection figures not long ago for the Care House, and they’d probably love to pick your brain about stuff.”

She seems to give it some thought, while the other three around her seem pensive, expressions clearly unapproving, but unwilling to say so out loud in front of their idol while she’s still considering. “Hmm...welll...how many of them?” she asks tentatively.

“Four- One sheepgirl, one lamia, one human, and one fairy,” you explain.

“Oh. Hm. I don’t know why, but I was expecting more,” she admits. “I thought perhaps you were teaching a small class on the side when you mentioned mentoring.”

Part of you feels like you should be more shocked than you are. “Ah, no no no no...just a couple of kids, really. I- I’m not good for handling a whole class. Wouldn’t want to.”

“Really?” She seems surprised. “You struck me as an able disciplinarian and you seemed to have an idea for how to teach them...”

Right, you can see where this is going- time to re-rail the conversation. “Well, that’s something to think about later. Do you think you can tell them a few things yourself?”

“Hmm…” she turns to her fellows. “Do we have anything that might not be suitable for younger people?”

“I don’t believe so,” Malora responds.

That seems to have made up her mind. “Hmm...well, for a bit, I suppose would be fine. Do you think?”

“They might at least appreciate the first couple of stops,” Eric chimes in. “But I would suggest against bringing them for the full tour. Especially considering the, er, last two stops before the meeting.” Huh. That sounds curious.

“Ah, right. That might be a bit...much, for them.” But with that, she turns to you. “Alright, then. If you can get them and be back in about ten or so minutes, we’d be happy to have you along for a bit.”

“Great!” At least that’s something. “I’ll be back in a bit, then.” Now, you just have to find them. And remember to have them ask for autographs or something. They oughta like that! Now, Noran and Mewla should still be where they were, but as for Harp and Tami...that's a different story.

>Roll 1d100, best of three.

Rolled 78 (1d100)

>>5007953

Rolled 12 (1d100)

>>5007953

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>5007953

>>5007955
>>5007957
>>5007958
Oh thank god, I thought we were going to find the Moonglow field on fire.

>>5007953
>>5007955
>>5007957
>>5007958
Noran and Mewla, fortunately, are roughly where you left them, though oddly enough they seem to be distanced from the group of lights that’s the fairy collective. Noran, in particular, seems to have a frown on his face, as though disapproving of something. As you approach, they notice, but don’t seem to lift their spirits any. “Something wrong?” you ask.

“Eeehh...well, not with me, but Mewla’s been heated about some stuff just now,” he explains. “Ain’t tellin’ me what- I wasn’t near when she was talkin’ to ‘em.” Indeed, she seems to be flittering back and forth near him, but if she’s saying anything, you can’t hear it. “She just needs some time to cool off, I suspect. Likely they was talkin’ and said something she didn’t agree with.”

“Fair enough.” If it was a serious issue, you’d ask about it later, but other than that, you’re happy to let them work through such issues themselves. “However, I might have something for you all; I’d like to get the others first, though.”

“Oh!” That seems to brighten the kid up. “Hey, didja hear that! We got a surprise for us!” True to form, that seems to give pause to Mewla’s angry zipping around, and get her to focus. “C’mon, gotta go find the others, first!”

At least that was handled well enough! With that, though...you need to find the others.

Unfortunately, when you do...it’s not in the state that you thought they’d be in. It’s near the gates for the Moonglow fields, but from the looks of things, they’ve met up with another kid; a purple haired human, from first glance. Looks like a swordsman at a blush, judging from the scabbard- that’s empty, though. He doesn’t look much older than them either, but you know that’s never a certainty. He’s got a matching...it’s not a robe, but you forget what it’s called at the moment, just that it’s traditional. He’s talking rather sincerely to them, it seems like...but whatever it is, it has Tami furious, and Harp looking almost...chastised? Worried? Whatever it is, she’s shrinking back. That’s not good.

(cont.)

>>5008161
As you hurry closer, you can hear some of what he’s saying. “...so it’s no shame to re-consider. It’d be foolish, and...I think you need not dream such foolish dreams. You’re a being of consideration and gentle nature- you need not- ah.” That’s clearly him noticing you, as he turns his head in your direction. “We will have to continue this discussion-”

“Never!” Tami yells- wow, she’s REALLY pissed. “Howsabout you buzz off an’ NEVER talk to her again, okay?! She doesn’t NEED you, so stop buttin’ in her life!” A couple more steps, and she’d be right in the kid’s face. But she holds herself back, turning to you and pointing. “HEY! Ms. Miranda, can you tell ‘im to get lost an’ stop bothering us?!”

“No need,” he says before you can respond. “I’ll be taking my leave now. Harpsicorie, all I ask is that you reconsider. Let me protect you.” And ignoring the growling from Tami, he walks off in the other direction at a brisk pace, leaving Tami to drag herself and Harp to you. Harp looks...shaken, actually. “Stupid jerk…”

“Geez, what happened?” Noran asks worriedly. Even Mewla seems to have taken notice, buzzing around Harp worriedly.

“Nuthin’.” Tami grinds out. “Jus’ a stupid boy from school being stupid.”

"Didn't sound stupid ta' me..." Noran says quietly.

>You have to agree. Whatever this is, you'd like to know in case it happens again.
>You DID figure earlier you trusted them to resolve their own little issues. Suppose this is one of them.
>...maybe you should at least see who that kid was. Quietly.
>Other

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>>5008163
>You DID figure earlier you trusted them to resolve their own little issues. Suppose this is one of them.
We have more important matters than looking at a random kid that we're not acquainted with. This is one of those children's quarrels that will solve itself eventually.

>He’s got a matching...it’s not a robe, but you forget what it’s called at the moment, just that it’s traditional.
Hakama?

>>5008163
>You have to agree. Whatever this is, you'd like to know in case it happens again.

OOH, STORYTIME FOR KIDDOS! Might as well reminisce about Lysan and the summoner world...
>"Y'know, on a job where I was working as a summoned fighter in a contest for a teenaged magic student with more money than sense, I fought against another student who had a similar idea as that kid, that the person he liked needed to be defended, that he had to protect her out of a misplaced sense of nobility, while all he really did was inadvertently talk down her skills. Of course, I beat him and his summon, but not before telling him to let his crush choose her own battles like a grown woman. Sure enough, she ended up taking third place in the contest, beating him for the bronze."
>"The moral of that is, sometimes, you're going to have to show that you can take care of yourself to others, even those doing it out of a misplaced idea of kindness."
>Don't mention that they looked like they might have started dating afterwards...

>>5008163
Aww harpiscore has her first neckbeard following her
>>You DID figure earlier you trusted them to resolve their own little issues. Suppose this is one of them.
>later in the day you'll have a discussion in private with harp. From lamia to eternal teenage woman
We need to teach her how to deal with people like this, which basically boils down to kicking them in the crotch or harp siccing tami on them

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>>5008163
>>You have to agree. Whatever this is, you'd like to know in case it happens again.
>Ask what ideas for Harp the two of them came up with while we were away
Gotta know what exactly is the deal with that kid before judging if we can trust them to solve it by themselves or not. Ignoring it seems kinda neglectful, especially since we haven't addressed her problem with deciding what she wanted to do as an Outgoer yet, and I still think she noticed that we were missing for half the night>>5000433.
>>5008185 This is a good guess of what is going on between them, but I think it could be put in a better way. Also we didn't fight the student himself but his summon.

>>5008236
We tend to get distracted and forget to deal with stuff at hand - better to solve this here and now instead of putting this on hold.
>>5008163
So when can we pick up our 'permanence treated' stuff? We absolutely have to show that cool magic resistant robe to our nerds.

>>5008163
>>You have to agree. Whatever this is, you'd like to know in case it happens again.
>Ask what ideas for Harp the two of them came up with while we were away

>>5008163
>>5008185
>>5008236
>>5008565
You have to agree. “What he said. Whatever this is, I'd like to know in case it happens again.” You’d rather not have to interfere, but just in case there’s a line crossed...you’d at least want to know what the general issue is.

That said, it’s clear Tami is reluctant to put words to it, and Harp is completely silent, as is common. Well, not as common these days, but the fact that she’s backslid a bit tells you that the issue is serious enough to her. It’s a few moments of staring before she finally cracks. “It’s just Kin. He’s a stupid boy that thinks stupid boys like him need to do EVERYTHING for girls. An’ it was nice at first, an’ then he just kept buttin’ in! He doesn’t leave us alone!” Ah. Classic case of chivalry gone wrong. “I ‘unno what we’re gonna do about him! Harps is too nice to say anything, so he keeps thinkin’ she wants it and I’m just mean. But she doesn’t want it either, do you?” That last bit is directed towards Harp herself, who shakes her head no softly. “See?”

“Hm. Well, in that case, I’ve got two things for you,” you decide. “A surprise and a story. Follow me and I’ll tell the story while I take you to the surprise.”

It doesn’t take long before they fall in line, looking towards you in curiosity. “This happened...well, not terribly long ago, actually. On a job where I was working as a summoned fighter in a contest for a teenaged magic student with more money than sense, I fought against another student who had a similar idea as that kid; y’know, that the person he liked needed to be defended, and that he had to protect her out of a misplaced sense of nobility.”

“Yeah, that sounds like Kin,” Tami agrees.

“Right. He thought he was being polite and proper, while all he really did was inadvertently talk down her skills. Of course, since we were in the same competition, I beat him and his summon- but not before telling him to let his crush choose her own battles like a grown woman. He seemed a bit confused at first, but sure enough, she ended up taking third place in the contest by beating him for the bronze."

“So then he stopped botherin’ her?” Tami asks, and Harp seems curious as well.

"He certainly seemed humbled afterwards.” You aren’t really sure how it all ‘ended’, perse. “The moral of that little story, though, is that sometimes, you're going to have to show that you can take care of yourself to others, even if they’re doing it out of a misplaced idea of kindness."

“...so we gotta fight him?” Tami asks- and Harp seems shocked at that. "I jus' figured we'd pull some pranks on him an' get him to give up thataways."

To your surprise, it’s Noran that interjects first. “Naw, I don’t think she meant that. Jus’ that you haveta show ‘em up front that you can handle things on your own ‘stead of just tellin’ them. Iunno how you can do that, though...”

True...that’d be a hard question to answer. “Something to think about for next time when you meet him. But for now…”

(cont.)

>>5008881
“Oh yeah, Harp wantsta ask you something!” Tami quickly interjects. “We talked an’ talked about it and we got an idea for Outgoer-ing! Aaaaand Harp says she doesn’t know what kinda powers or nuthin’ she has, so...” She nudges Harp lightly, who slithers up a touch at her comment.

“Ummm...issss...you ssssaid a while ago it wassss okay if I wanted to work in a team, right? And the ssschool said if I wanted to try ssssomething...ssspecialist?” Ah, so that’s what she’s getting at. Geez, she’s nervous about this. “Then I needed to get the right ssstuff for it.”

Ah. “So, what specialist position are you looking at? They CAN be useful in squads, yeah.”

She squints in thought. “Uhhh...I can’t remember the word. Recon...sssomething…”

“Reconnaissance?” you finish. “That’s useful for sure. You never want to go into a situation blind if you can help it.”

“R-right...but they sssaid there was difference typesss…” Different types? “like... shock troops? But that sounds REALLY scary...they also said there was ‘tech-nic-cal’ scouts, and they ussse different things to look for them…” Hm. Shock Troops are right now, for sure. But a gearhead? Plausible. But then again...snake. It’s REALLY hard not to lean into the obvious, simply because you know she’d be good at it...if she got over her fears.

Hmmm...

>Push her towards the idea of a technical specialist. She can look through other's eyes and still help. It'll require some brainpower, though.
>Try to convince her that her natural talents aren't to be dismissed- getting first-hand data and being able to rapidly react to evolving issues is a boon that shouldn't be discounted.
>Might be better to put the issue on hold for now; you're not in a good space to think about it. Mind, Tami's looking like she'll be doing her own influencing if you don't...
>Other

>>5008899
>Other
Ask her if she wants to try out some of those positions first.
I think we have a contact or two at Dynamic Methods...

>>5008899
>>Try to convince her that her natural talents aren't to be dismissed- getting first-hand data and being able to rapidly react to evolving issues is a boon that shouldn't be discounted.
“Personally, Harpsi, I’d go with the one that fits with the talents you naturally have. You’re a born contortionist, dang good at making quick escapes and and a natural at quarterstaves and polearms. It’s make sense to work on that first and foremost, to train what you already know instinctually, and hone it to a razor point. That being said, this is only my suggestion, and I know you’d excel at whatever you’d put your mind on.”

>>5008899
>are right now

That's supposed to be 'are right out'.

>>5008899
>>5008909
>>5008919
These.

Writing!

>>5008899
>>5008909
>>5008919
>>5008928
You’re nearly back at the cookout- you can smell it still, and you suspect the kids can too, judging by how their heads are swiveling. Still, Harp is considering you closely, clearly interested in your response. You might as well do your best to answer. “Personally, Harpsi, I’d go with the one that fits with the talents you naturally have.” It’s really a matter of overthinking it, you believe. “You’re a born contortionist, dang good at making quick escapes and and a natural at quarterstaves and polearms. It makes sense to work on that first and foremost. You’d want to train what you already know instinctively, and hone it to a razor point.”

“Oh...hm.” She seems...a bit surprised, actually, but not dismayed, clearly taking your words to heart.

That’s good. “That being said, it’s only my suggestion. I know you’d excel at whatever you’d put your mind on.” Nothing like a bit of positive reinforcement for a kid, you suppose. “In fact, I might know some people you could talk to, if you wanted to ask about that kinda role.” Dynamic Methods would likely love to give a talk to this kid. She seems to be surprised, but although she considers, she doesn’t respond.

Ah, and here you are. “Speaking of. You lot are all still interested in famous Outgoers, right?”

“Yeah!” Tami says. “It’s pretty cool but we’ve just been busy.” They all nod at that...good to know.

“Well, then, you’ll get a kick out of who I met a few minutes ago.” You allow yourself a grin as you bring them to the cookout. At first they seem surprised...but those faces morph to awe as they see who’s in the center. “Girls, meet Lunaluna Grace. Ms. Grace, I’d like to introduce you to Harpsicorie, Tami Flaff, Noran, and Mewla.”

“Hello, all.” Her voice has an extra-gentle quality to it, you notice. Not patronizing, but at least a bit more...motherly, perhaps? “I’m very happy to meet you all. Welcome to our little outing; all of these people are my friends, and I hope I’ll be able to be friends with you, too!”

The way that they seem to be restraining themselves isn’t lost on you or her. You’re gonna have to be extra-mindful of them, looks like. “Stay close to me, and ASK before you do anything, okay?” Hopefully they can restrain themselves.

As the procession packs up (not everything, seems like they’ll be leaving a few people behind to keep their hold on the place), you wonder just where you’re off to first…

>It ends up being a small building in the Learner’s District, where a number of rather silent and dour teenagers and adults seem to be hanging around, both outside and inside.. There’s no sense of hostility, but it is a bit...muted.
>It’s a rather familiar library, actually...so, she helped set this place up? You didn’t know that. Maybe you can stop by and say hi to a couple of people...
> Turns out the Festival District, at what looks like a somewhat large corporate building...although you recognize the symbol up top as the one for the news. Huh.

>>5009067
>It ends up being a small building in the Learner’s District
I'm getting a real "Saving the Rec Center" vibe from this. Wonder if we can help save it with the power of breakdancing...

>>5009067
>It’s a rather familiar library, actually...so, she helped set this place up? You didn’t know that. Maybe you can stop by and say hi to a couple of people...

>>5009067
>It’s a rather familiar library, actually...so, she helped set this place up? You didn’t know that. Maybe you can stop by and say hi to a couple of people...
Hmm, when in doubt always go for familiar territories.
Or we can go for the bottom for maximum exposure. Top is too downer for this outing for me.

>>5009075
I think it's better to stick to familiar places, don't want them to get overwhelmed with their surroundings. Also we might get some help with handling them.

>>5002682
>“That, and I think I recognize your name.”
>“Well, I guess that makes- wait, what?” That last bit tripped you up. She RECOGNIZED you? “Why would you know me?” The others seem to be just as surprised, judging by how they’re looking at you.
...so what are the chances that she heard about us from Izumi?

>>5009067
>It’s a rather familiar library, actually...so, she helped set this place up? You didn’t know that. Maybe you can stop by and say hi to a couple of people...

Running in about 30 minutes!

>>5009067
>>5009075
>>5009076
>>5009205
It’s a familiar sight, actually- the big library that Izumi and her friend Delilah works in. You hadn’t know that this was somewhere she’d helped set up. The kids mention this as well; from what it sounds like, Luna had kept her involvement fairly low key, although she does admit to it. “I helped give this library its start- I felt that having a central repository of tangible knowledge would be important,” she explains. You’re not sure the kids all know what the big words mean, but you hope that context does the job enough. “I also added to it personally by sharing a number of books and other research materials I’d gained on my travels,” she explains. “It’s one of my most beloved works; I’m sure you’ve been here a few times already, right?”

“Yup!” Tami explains. “We came here for our project!”

“Ahh, yes. Your minder did explain that. Whom did you eventually do it on?” she asks. She doesn’t seem at all offended by the implication it wasn’t on her, at least. Not that the surrounding club members seem to be quite of the same mind…

“Ms. Mab Cortical,” Noran explains as you all head inside. “Was a touch frosty at first, but she turned out pretty neat!”

“Ah, yes,” Lunaluna nods in understand. “She can be rather taciturn at times- but she’s one of the greatest minds I’ve ever known. Not to mention, humble when you get down to it, as well.” Humble? Not what you’d have called her, talking to her. “I should drop by and say hello to her again- it’s been a while since we last spoke casually.” Huh. So she knows Mab? Wonder if you can find out more about her?

As you settle in, she begins talking about some of her favorite books- not fantasy, rather, but more poetic compilations, it seems, as well as some others. That gets a couple of the fanclub to ask about her favorites, and from there, it seems you're going to be subject to a bit of an impromptu poetry reading if you don't interject...

>Ask about her experiences with Mab.
>Ask her more about what she’s done for the library.
>Ask her about other A+ ranks she’s talked with.
>She can probably entertain them all for a bit while you slip off...
>Other

>>5009836
>>She can probably entertain them all for a bit while you slip off...

>>5009836
>Ask about her experiences with Mab.
>Ask her about other A+ ranks she’s talked with.
Mab's probably how she learned our name, and I'm kind of curious about her relationships with Fenrirus and Sulia.

>>5009836
>Ask about her experiences with Mab.

>>5009836
>Ask about her experiences with Mab.
>Ask her about other A+ ranks she’s talked with.
Yep, she's definitely in the know.

>>5009863
I really hope Izumi can at least get a sneak peek at Lunaluna - not letting her know that a celebrity was visiting is kinda a major dick move

>>5009943
>>5009836
I think she knows, this is a scheduled outing after all.

>>5009950
>>5007072
>“We don’t want a ton of onlookers and paparazzi and all that waiting for us, so only the people in the club know the schedule.”
If she was in "the club" she probably would've already been here from the start

>>5009952
>>5009836
Missed that, but yeah we should at least ping her on the phone.

Writing!

>>5009836
Seconding on messaging Izumi.

>>5009954
>>5009963
>>5009836
okay, let's at least message her

>>5009836
>>5009887
>>5009896
>>5009898
>>5009943
>>5009950
>>5009963
“So, what's your experience with Mab, then?” you’d rather not listen to poetry unless you absolutely HAVE to, and the idea that she could know a few things about the recluse is enticing. “I got the impression she was rather fiercely independent from the little time I had with her.”

“Oh, she is,” Lunaluna assures. “We worked on a few ideas together, such as refinements to the Outgoer Training Clinic, the curriculum for testing, as well as a few other small things, but generally she wasn’t too keen on collaborative works. I think that was less dislike for others as much as…” her expression grows downcast. “Distrust born from experience. But, that’s not my story to tell,” she demurrs. “She’d be rather frustrated if I did. Not to mention a couple of the others.”

“Others?” you inquire as you’re all sat down in a small conversation area. “Who all do you know?”

“Oh, several,” she admits, with the kids hanging on her every word, now. Seems they get just how major this is as you do. “Hearticle’s a good friend of mine, and I try to visit her every now and again. She should have a bit of work coming up, so it’d be good for me to visit her before hand. The poor dear gets nervous when I don’t. Suila’s quite a good friend of mine as well; when I spar with another, it’s usually with her.” At that, she looks you up and down, still with that soft smile. “You might like her, honestly. You remind me of her a bit- at least regarding her attitude. She has that same permanent frowny-face as you and yet still loves children. Of course, she’d have to agree to see you, however...” That drops the smile a bit. “But maybe one day. You’d have to pry her away from Fenrirus, however.”

“Why’s that?” you find yourself asking.

She chuckles. “Well...honestly, it’s not really ‘news’, since the rumors have been around forever, but they’re rather enamored of another. They value their privacy, of course, but I have it on authority they’re unconcerned about THAT leaking out. After all, there’s few that would bother them about it, right?” True...but it’s still something to note, you think. Two of the best actually together? It'd be talk for a while.

“Hey…” Tami starts to speak up, and you use that time to at least fire off a quick text. Izumi would be a big fan of Ms. Grace, and if nothing else, she deserves to know the lady’s here, even if it’d be rude to just barge in. “Didja know, um…” Tami pauses to think. “Ms. Flash lady?”

She blinks once in confusion. “I...beg your pardon?” And then a blush. “I- you wouldn’t mean Sunstreak, would you? I’m less than acquainted; but I’m not so certain they’re someone to take after…”

“No…” Tami says, considering. “The other Flash lady! I forget her name but it was somethin’ Flas-”

“Oh, Citrine Flash!” Lunaluna brightens, though only slightly. “Oh, a bit. A lovely girl, really. Although last I checked, she, er...well, she’s not available. Won’t be for a while.”

(cont.)

>>5010056
“Yeah?” You recall the girl herself saying something like that when you met her. “Huh.”

“But, again, not so much my place,” she dismisses. It’s then that a pair of club members come in, carrying a number of books. “Now then, if it’s stories that you want, then there are a few I can tell you-” you get a buzz on your phone- Izumi again? No, it’s a call. “Oh. Should you take that?”

It’s from Susie. “Probably,” you admit, getting up. “I’ll be right back.”

“Take your time,” she assures, and you step out to answer it.

“Hello?” you can only assume what this is for…

“It iz time,” comes the voice of Susie the Full Witch. “Your presenze is requested at Ze Guild of Shadows tomorrow evening. Ze task will be explained when you arrive. Do not be late.”

“Right, sure thing.” You’re not sure what else to say in this scenario, but...lot of things to be done.

“Alzo, dress lightly. And in somezing you will not miss.” Oh. That sounds FANTASTIC.

“Alright. See you then.” With that, the line goes dead. You’re about to walk back in, when you get a buzz. Izumi, presumably.

Although when you read the message...it’s not what you expected. You were expecting her to ask you to ask HER something or the like, maybe an autograph, or a piece of advice.

‘How long is she here for?’ That’s not what you were expecting.

‘Dunno,’ is your response. ‘She’s telling a story.’ A moment of waiting…

‘Can she stay here for about 1:30?’ You weren’t sure she was intended to stay that long…

‘Why?’ It seems odd. Why would she care...wait. ‘Something important?’

‘Maybe but want to try and notify.’ Huh. So...how would you go about keeping her like that without letting her walk out, is the question? Or maybe this will have to wait another day...

>Action?

>>5010074
what time is it now?

>>5010075
nevermind, misread 1:30 part

>>5010075
My guess is near past noon since they've just finished lunch.

>>5010082
Correct.

>>5010074
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/4929917/#p4937507

>“Your matter of zolving problems iz most direct, yes? Not zomething ze Guild is particularly fond of nor skilled in. In particular, zere is zomething I would like you to engage in on my be’alf.”

>“Alzo, dress lightly. And in somezing you will not miss.”

It's going to be a slime isn't it?
Make a note to call her again for further details later.

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>>5010074
During one of our visits to the Library we saw some new devices that could replicate stories from the books. If we convince them to try those out we can buy ourselves a lot of time - since it's new then it'd take some time to find and set them up but the result would probably impress everyone gathered here, so it'd not piss her fanclub off for staying here for so long.

>>5010094
If only some of the books that they've picked have been recorded in those cylinders then we can watch those while the others are being transferred into a new format. Unless the process takes too much time.

>>5010074
>>5010094
Let's try this out then.

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>>5010056
>Ms. Flash lady
>I- you wouldn’t mean Sunstreak would you?
...wasn't it 'Mr. Sunstreak'? what kind of exposure issues do they have?

>>5010074
>>5010094
+
Although judging from that thread they have their own section.

>>5010110
Considering Lunaluna's reaction I can only assume Sunstreak got the latter part of their name from doing exactly that, streaking.

>>5010074
>>5010094
>>5010108
>>5010268
So. This means you’ve got to figure out some method of getting them to hold off until Izumi can do...whatever it is she’s trying to do. You rack your brain for a possibility, any possibility that might last longer than a few minutes. But really, short of asking her to read it out loud or maybe put on a damn play, you don’t think it’ll take particularly long to…

...wait! A play! That’s it- or rather, a recreation. A brief snippet of conversation comes back to you unbidden; Delilah had mentioned that there was some sort of display technology that would allow certain books to be recreated in miniature- it sounded like it’d be bound to specific texts, though, so you’d have to see what might turn up. Poetry was unlikely, to tell the truth. At least, to YOU it doesn’t seem likely...but it’s worth a shot.

“Hey, so if you want them to really get into it…” you venture upon stepping back in. Hopefully, explaining it to them won’t be too hard of a sell. “There’s this new format I know they’ve been working on, and it might be more interesting to everyone involved- it’s pretty much a legit recreation of what the books read, only in visual, animated display. Pretty neat stuff.” You don’t actually KNOW that, since you’ve never tried it, but might as well sell it. “I know there’s a section for them- so if you can find it, maybe we could try it out?”

“Hmmm…” fortunately, she seems to be intrigued. “I suppose it might depend on how long it takes to find anything. But, I think we’ll start off with more traditional works, just in case.” She turns to two others- the ones that had brought the books in the first place. Picking up three, she gives the request. “Could you see if they have these three in that format? Thank you.”

Alright. Here’s hoping…

>Roll 1d100, best of three.

Rolled 11 (1d100)

>>5014137

Rolled 32 (1d100)

>>5014137

Rolled 53 (1d100)

>>5014137

Rolled 72 (1d100)

>>5014137

goddamit

Uuugh missed it by 20 secs. At least we didn't outright fail the check.

Dropped my trip. Also, some results.

>>5014137
>>5014140
>>5014144
>>5014145
While you hope and wait, you contact Izumi once again. ‘Trying to delay her. Not sure how long.’

‘Thanks.’ That’s about it. Well, at the very least, you’ve given it a shot- any more interference might get her suspicious. Nice though she may be, she’s got serious Outgoer instincts.

Unfortunately for you, it seems like there’s only a couple of books in the requested format- although they do seem to be the longer ones. So she begins with the printed media first- a collection of her favored poems, and she does a bit of a poetry reading session there, explaining why she likes them and the meaning behind them, including what she takes away from each one.

If you’re being honest? You’re...not really paying attention. Poetry readings are NOT your thing. Definitely Izumi’s, that...you think.

While normally you’d call the recognition of boredom on the kids’ faces fortunate, you’re trying to STALL her here, so when she ends the readings early and moves on to the more animated media, you’re a bit concerned- it’s only be about twenty minutes! But then the top of the tube opens, a green light spills out as though a hologram, and suddenly you’re staring at a soft, translucent man in a scientist’s garb and with a rather bushy beard. “Greetings! I thank you for reading this overview- it means much to myself, and my family. Now, my history with robotics is well known. For those that do not, however, I am Dr. Thaddeus Curl, and this is to record the history of my best, favored creation...and possibly friend. His name is Egon. And I hope that this tale will show you the depths of his heart, his soul- for indeed I believe he had a soul, robot or not- and the trials that he vanquished for the sake of his loved ones.”

Huh. That actually sounds kind of interesting.

That seems to be the case with the others as well; it seems Lunaluna liked this story because it impressed upon her the lesson that ‘even the most unexpected beings can have heart and soul, no matter what’. She hadn’t even known of mechanical beings before coming here, of course.

Suddenly, another buzz. It’s Izumi. ‘Thanks.’ Wait, it’s been a half hour? The book’s just ending! ‘Coming out now.’

It’s just then you hear Lunaluna gasp. “Oh dear! We’ve spent quite more time here than I thought. We’ll have to be off to the next stop, I’m afraid, so everyone, pack up quickly!” Damn. You hope that she gets here quickly…

“Ahh, beg pardon, ma’am?” Oh, there she is. That was quick… “Ms. Grace?”

She turns to Izumi, small smile and yet inquisitive look on her face. “Yes?”

“I beg your pardon. My name is Izumi Yayoi, I’m an Outgoer, but also a worker here. It’s in that capacity I’d like to ask you for a moment of your time. There’s been an issue with your extended checkout.” She hazards a very brief glance at you. Was that what this was about?

(cont.)

>>5014250

“Extended checkout?” And at THAT, Lunaluna Grace seems baffled. “I don’t recall checking out any books recently…”

“Ah.” Izumi keeps her face straight. “Well, it says here that a book was checked out in your name approximately two weeks ago, and was yet to be returned. Could you come with me to help resolve this issue?” Huh. That...sounds suspect. Also risky.

Luna nods quickly. “Of course! If something’s been checked out in my name without my permission…!” She seems actually annoyed at this, but you suppose you can’t blame her. With that, she marches off with Izumi quickly as everyone else stands in surprise.

“Who’d be that stupid to check something out under her name?” you hear someone ask. You’re wondering the same thing, but…

“Uhh...is somethin’ wrong?” Tami asks. Perceptive thing, really. “Should we go now?”

>Follow them. This DOES involve you, as annoying as she might find it.
>Leave them be and try to keep the kids calm. No need to fret yet.
>Probably a good idea to leave for now. You’ll get the after-action from Izumi later.
>Other

>>5014252
>Follow them. This DOES involve you, as annoying as she might find it.
This is just too juicy to be ignored.