[a / b / c / d / e / f / g / gif / h / hr / k / m / o / p / r / s / t / u / v / vg / w / wg] [i / ic] [r9k] [cm / hm / y] [3 / adv / an / cgl / ck / co / diy / fa / fit / hc / int / jp / lit / mlp / mu / n / po / pol / sci / soc / sp / tg / toy / trv / tv / vp / x] [rs] [status / ? / @] [Settings] [Home]
Board:  
Settings   Home
4chan
/qst/ - Quests


File: Izumi Yayoi.jpg (113 KB, 886x902)
113 KB
113 KB JPG
You are Izumi Yayoi.

After a week of little happening, which some would call a blessing, you’d wound up at Ai’s restaurant. While you certainly appreciate the food, it’s tinged with a bit of bitterness, as much as you hate to admit it. It’s not like you to mope about, but you’re not yet inclined to head out on a job at the moment. In a flaring desire for some companionship, you’d decided to invite Miranda and Lorelei along, but they’d both declined, more or less. To be exact, they’d said they’d ‘get there if we’re able to,’ but as they were both doing acting classes and first runs with that movie, they might not show up for a while- and you’d insisted that if they were too mentally worn from the day’s schedule, they shouldn’t worry overmuch. It wouldn’t be good to have all THREE of you in some sort of negative mood.

The one who WASN’T, however, was Ai. Ever the kinds proprietress, she’d gotten wind of yet another visit of yours and had offered you some pork buns on the house. It was very appreciated of her, but you couldn’t help but remember what Miranda had let you know about her a while back. Just what was causing her trouble? Ai was the sort to not worry you over her own issues willingly, so you’d have to approach this in a particular fashion to get what you wanted out of her. A part of you feels particularly guilty for thinking of this like how’d you approach an interrogation for a job.

It’s a slow period for her, it seems, so Ai’s mostly doing the server work herself. The way she looks at you makes it clear she thinks YOU’RE the one with the troubles, not her. But frankly, your issues aren’t so much compared to hers, you feel…

“Not feeling so well?” she asks as she returns from delivering some ramune to two of the few guests in here. “Is there anyone you want to talk about?”

----------------------
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Magical%20Girl%20For%20Hire%20Quest
General Pastebin: http://pastebin.com/u/MGFHQHandler
MGFH Spreadsheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1H43OFoxE9QyMgIqBg_YdPO7IPn7_ES6iST7Xnv9Ou7Q/edit#gid=0
Character Details: http://pastebin.com/9J70gqM2
FAQ: http://pastebin.com/8unLWUjF
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MGFHandler
Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/Q5Q1MR92
-----------------------

>...well, you could maybe say something, you guess. Maybe she’ll be interested in relating?
> “I’ll be fine. Honestly, I’m more concerned about you. Is there anything I can help you with?”
> “Ai...level with me. Your restaurant is going through some issues, isn’t it?”
>Other
>>
>>5075063
>>...well, you could maybe say something, you guess. Maybe she’ll be interested in relating?
>>
>>5075063
>...well, you could maybe say something, you guess. Maybe she’ll be interested in relating?
>>
>>5075063
>...well, you could maybe say something, you guess. Maybe she’ll be interested in relating?
>>
Writing!
>>
>>5075063
>>5075067
>>5075069
>>5075080
You let out a light sigh. You’re uncertain how best to approach the issue, but perhaps she’d at least be a bit more open if you were to share some of your own woes, light though they may be. “It’s nothing too major at the moment...although, I suppose that ‘at the moment’ is the key part of the phrase. Really, it’s more a matter of feeling...well, not tired, but at the very least a touch...off kilter, as it were.”

“Off-kilter?” she repeats.

“Like there’s a great deal that I’ve gotten used to, and now all of it’s changing at once. I’m doing my best to muddle through it, but oftentimes I just feel like I’m...waiting. Walking in place. At least, for the last week or two.” Granted, it’s not necessarily because of your job, or jobs rather. It’s just...it seems like so much is going on in the background, and you feel like you should be doing more. Yet Miranda seems dedicated to doing this largely by herself for whatever reason. Not that you can tell her, perse.

“Well...perhaps there’s something else that you can use to take your mind off it?” Ai suggests. “When I’m feeling troubled, I like to either play ping-pong, or maybe do some living artistry.” Ah, right. It’s essentially painting in 3d space. Very amazing pieces when you have the knack for it, but it takes specialized equipment. “I’m sure you have a hobby like that, right?”

“Well...not really,” you admit. “There’s things I like to do, but none of them are quite like that.”

“That’s fine! As long as it’s something that soothes you! I was going to do some art myself later today, if you want to come with me!” she offers. That...might be your opportunity.

“Why so?” you ask idly.

She blushes a bit. “Well...don’t tell anyone, but on the business side of things, the restaurant’s been having some issues. Nothing major, but you know how competitive things can be!”

“Really?” you ask in surprise. “You usually get decent traffic. What’s happened?”

“Oh, nothing you need to worry about,” she dismisses, as you suspected. “Just some business quarreling. You know how it is with competition.”

Quarreling? What does she mean by that? “How long has this been going on?” you ask.

“Oh, for a number of months now,” she sighs. “Some smear campaigns and all that. It’s just been a little rougher than normal, but I know I can handle it! I just need to make sure that my food is better than Jiro’s no matter what!” ...hm.

>Ask her about more information on this ‘Jiro’. Whatever they’re doing, they’re messing with your friend.
>You’ll keep quiet. Maybe investigate on your own for once. She DID mention taking your mind off of things.
>Other
>>
>>5075207
>Ask her about more information on this ‘Jiro’. Whatever they’re doing, they’re messing with your friend.
No other choices here.
>>
>>5075207
>Ask her about more information on this ‘Jiro’. Whatever they’re doing, they’re messing with your friend.
>>
>>5075207
>Ask her about more information on this ‘Jiro’. Whatever they’re doing, they’re messing with your friend.
>>
>>5075207
>>5075212
>>5075217
>>5075221
“Jiro?” You ask. “Who’s this?”

She flinches, as though she didn’t mean to let that slip, or maybe forgot that you weren’t up to date. “O-oh, no one important, just some new guy that showed up recently. A couple months ago. He’s trying to do the usual thing of muscling me out, has a number of big names showing up. Really making waves. I don’t know why he’s so against me, but it doesn’t matter!”

That’s...concerning, to say the least. “And he’s smearing you? How?”

“Oh, well…” she blushes. “Maybe ‘smear’ is a strong word. It’s more like...he’s saying that he can be trusted for good food more than smaller places?” Her grin is shaky and not really sincere. “He’s even asked me to work for him, but...well, this is my dream, and my afterlife! I’m not going to surrender to anyone!” Well...she seems determined, at least. But it is kinda concerning. “I’ve been thinking about seeing what he’s doing, but I don’t want to go in there, either. He might take it the wrong way!”

“You mean he might accuse you of spying?” you question.

“Or he might think I really DO want to work for him!” she corrects. Ah. Fair enough. “So aside from stuff online, I can’t really figure out how to get to him!”

“Well,” you start, “I could-”

“Oh, nonono! I don’t want you to do that for me! Especially if he figures it out!” she says. True, you can kind of understand that, but still…

> ...you’ll just have to be careful about doing it. He wouldn’t really go that far, would he?
> Fine...but you’ll keep a very careful eye on this new guy and his restaurant.
> That shouldn’t matter! You’ll march in there yourself and see what he’s all about.
> Other
>>
>>5075291
>> ...you’ll just have to be careful about doing it. He wouldn’t really go that far, would he?
Well, if Izumi can't visit his place, we could ask Miranda. Since she promised to help but couldn't do it today, maybe she could visit Jiro's place when she's not busy.
>>
>>5075291
> ...you’ll just have to be careful about doing it. He wouldn’t really go that far, would he?
I want to take a hint out of Miranda's playbook, but we can just do this >>5075294
>>
>>5075301
Hm? What hint?
>>
>>5075291
> ...you’ll just have to be careful about doing it. He wouldn’t really go that far, would he?
Funny thing Miranda's even busier when she's not working.
>>
>>5075308
You know, being as subtle as a brick and just talk to him about the problem directly. If he's near reasonable in anyway we can reach a solution.
>>
>>5075312
Oh... Has Izumi ever been blunt about something?
>>
>>5075317
Nope as far as I can remember, but she hasn't encountered anyone messing with her close friends in the Intersection before.
>>
>>5075317
>>5075325
Though she doesn't seem to be one for cloak & dagger work I can imagine she atleast knows what tact is. Besides there is nothing stopping us from taking this to the boss herself, I'm sure Miranda can stop herself from doing anything too stupid in the Intersection
>>
Writing!
>>
>>5075291
>>5075294
>>5075301
>>5075309
Well, you can understand why she wouldn’t want to, even if she hadn’t just said it… but this is your friend you’re talking about. That just means that you’ll just have to be careful about doing it. He wouldn’t really go that far to try and trace you, would he? Well, you’ll have time to consider that later. “Alright, then. “I won’t try anything on your behalf. But still, if it gets too much, please let me know,” you insist. “I’ll not hold anything back in the defense of a friend.”

“I appreciate that,” she says gratefully. “It’ll just be a bit of a rougher time for a while, but I’m sure that I can win over the people’s hearts through their stomachs!” Ah, this girl.

For the time being, you’ll let it go, you suppose…but you’re going to do SOMETHING about it. The question here is just wha-

“Heyyyyy! We’re not too late!” Oh! That’ll be Lorelei, and you turn to see Miranda’s with her, too. Lorelei looks quite satisfied, while Miranda looks…well, herself. The former waves easily and before long, are both plopped down next to you.

From there, the conversation is far more casual- Lorelei seems to be having a great time with the acting classes, though apparently she was told that she ‘really doesn’t seem to need them’. Miranda apparently was…less praised, though she at least seems not angry about them. You’ll call that a plus. They’ve both stated that principal shooting starts tomorrow. You’re happy for them, really. “It’s oddly different than on a job,” Miranda says, though she’s not sounding too annoyed by it. “They say they want you to be ‘real’, but every time I try to be real they tell me to up my volume or exaggerate my movements or something. It’s not really ‘realistic’ at all. Kinda a shame. I was hoping it’d help on jobs.”

(cont.)
>>
>>5077536
“It will!” Lorelei insists. “You just gotta figure out how much to dial it up and down when ya need to. Basics help, though!”

Miranda just shrugs. “Well, at least YOU’RE doing alright to them,” she says.

“That’s because I practically act like, all the time!” she chirps. “I know what I’m doing, inside and out!” Hopefully she doesn’t ACTUALLY mean all the time…

“So, what’s your role again?” you ask casually.

She laughs. “Turns out, what they wanted me for was really essentially comic relief. Like, I mean, I’m a baddie? But the whole thing is that I’m supposed to be the egotistical inept sort. Like, I’m the weirdo rando that keeps showing up at the worst possible time to screw it up for the actual bad guys. They already got me this goofy-ass jacket and chain and all, too.”

That’s…well, you could see that. “Interesting.”

“What about you, though?” Lorelei turns it back on you. “I know you said you did that thing with the little girl, but you getting up to anything else this week or are you kinda just enjoyin’ doin’ nothing?”

“I’m not doing nothing,” you note. “I still have my job at the library!”

“So nothing,” she teases as Ai drops her rice balls off, heading to the back. You're alone. For now.

>Mention the issues with Ai, and that you'd like help to see what's happening.
>No, you'll not bother them with this- you'll handle it yourself for now.
>Other
>>
>>5077537
>>Mention the issues with Ai, and that you'd like help to see what's happening.
>>
>>5077537
>Mention the issues with Ai, and that you'd like help to see what's happening.
>>
>>5077537
>Mention the issues with Ai, and that you'd like help to see what's happening.
>>
>>5077537
>Mention the issues with Ai, and that you'd like help to see what's happening.
>>
TGAs are done. Writing shortly.
>>
>>5077537
>>5077540
>>5077547
>>5077689
>>5078475
You sigh. “Well, I might be doing something soon,” you say carefully, preparing to gauge their reactions. “Ai’s been having some business trouble…”

“Oh, you’re not taking on a THIRD job, are you?” Lorelei groans out. Even Miranda looks put out at that.

“What? No!” you quickly dismiss. Even you have your limits. “But I was thinking about investigating the situation,” you admit. “It seems she has a competitor that’s targeting her in particular. Said his name was Jiro.”

At that, Lorelei and Miranda perk up a bit. “ ‘Jiro’s Divine Palace’?” Lorelei asks.

That’s unexpected. “You’ve heard of it?” Though considering Lorelei, maybe…

“Yup,” she confirms. “They were just talkin’ about the place like, yesterday over at the studio. Ms. Nia was saying that the atmosphere is good but she hated the service. Could choose from personalized plates or just non-stop food like a steakhouse.” Interesting. Wonder why both?

“What about the food?” you ask. She waves her hand back and forth.

“Passable, she said, but I think the girl’s just got expensive tastes. You haven’t seen her chompers, but she’s for SURE carnivorous,” Lorelei explains.

“I looked up the menu,” Miranda contributes.. Too fancy for my tastes anyway.”

Hm. “Well, that’s a concern,” you admit. “I was hoping to get into the place.”

Lorelei chuckles. “What, you want to be like, a spy?” Says the spy.

“More or less. I suppose the question is ‘how to get in’, then? Well, I suppose that might be easier answered if perhaps I could have help…” you look to them meaningfully.

“...help how?” Miranda asks carefully.

Ah, that IS the question, isn’t it? Well, you can think of several options…

> “If I could perhaps get a bit of a loan…” It’d put you in their debt, but you want to make sure you’re there for a while. You can look at your own pace and make sure that nothing’s out of sorts- or if it is, exactly what.
> "Maybe one of you would like to come with me? Split the bill?" You'll have to pick one, though you're pretty sure the other will be out of it. Just one of them might be enough and give you a lot of intel on what's going on there.
>“Well, there’s no reason not for us to have a bit of a splurging session, is there? And we’ve been making a few waves, right?” Going as the senior trio of Silver Eye Solutions and the most public, you might be able to get some first class treatment and look at everything on offer.
> Other
>>
>>5080149
>> "Maybe one of you would like to come with me? Split the bill?" You'll have to pick one, though you're pretty sure the other will be out of it. Just one of them might be enough and give you a lot of intel on what's going on there.
>>
>>5080149
>“Well, there’s no reason not for us to have a bit of a splurging session, is there? And we’ve been making a few waves, right?” Going as the senior trio of Silver Eye Solutions and the most public, you might be able to get some first class treatment and look at everything on offer.
Let's make a scene then.
>>
>>5080149
>“Well, there’s no reason not for us to have a bit of a splurging session, is there? And we’ve been making a few waves, right?”
>>
>>5080155
Wait, this option suggests that Izumi will only send one of her friends there (but wouldn't go there herself) and she'd cover half of the motes spent while they collect intel, right? Because just a few posts ago Ai warned that Jiro could catch on if Izumi went there and we voted for 'we'll be careful' option>>5075291. I especially don't get why would we try to make a scene then.
>>
>>5080149
>“Well, there’s no reason not for us to have a bit of a splurging session, is there? And we’ve been making a few waves, right?”
>>
>>5080149
> "Maybe one of you would like to come with me? Split the bill?" You'll have to pick one, though you're pretty sure the other will be out of it. Just one of them might be enough and give you a lot of intel on what's going on there.
I don't think making a scene or splurging would be a good idea.
>>
>>5080149
>>5080156
Switching to
> "Maybe one of you would like to come with me? Split the bill?" You'll have to pick one, though you're pretty sure the other will be out of it. Just one of them might be enough and give you a lot of intel on what's going on there.
Voting for Miranda for this.
>>
Meanwhile:

> "Hey, whoa, what's this? Who're you?"

> "Me, my dude? Considerin' where you are, I'm yer best friend in the world right now! You can call me Nome. A pleasure!"

> "Hm? Whaddya mean? T.P.O, you seeing this?"

> "Indeed I am. She has the appearance of a local."

> "Ha. Nice bot. An' what I MEAN is that you're in my neck of the Groovin' Woods- an' normally I'd be peeved about that, but considering you an' me are after the same thing, I might be willing to help you two out."

> "Wait...you're trying to fight off the Dark Rhythm, too?"

> "That appears to be the case, Mr. Beat."

> "Hey, the program's got the right of it! You really think I'm all for lettin' this trouble in the Background go? If we don't stop 'em from plantin' all those Mute Crystals, no one's gonna be able to carry a tune ever again! TOTAL tone deafness? Not on my watch."

> "I would suggest an alliance, Mr. Beat. I understand I may still be a new acquaintance, however..."

> "No, no, you're right. Alright, Ms. Nome. If you can help..."

> "Well, as it just so happens, you an' your smart little pink helper showed up at the right time! There's a crystal not too far from here..."

Writing.
>>
>>5080149
>>5081207
>>5081122
>>5080155

“Well, perhaps it might be a good show if one of you came with me for a dinner. Maybe split the bill? We’d be able to see how it is at a reasonable pace, and we probably wouldn’t turn too many heads. Just friends having a nice night out,” you decide. Anything else would likely either not allow you to take the breadth of the place in, and much more would give you likely a bit too much attention. At least, you hope you’re not being arrogant when you say that.

The two of them consider it for a moment. Miranda in particular huffs. “I’m not a fan of the expense, but…well, friends and all that. You know what I mean.” You do. She’d point out anything clearly amiss, and you know she’d at least have an appreciation for the craft, considering her cooking skill. Still, you can tell she’s not entirely onboard with this. She’s already got her plate full, and as good as she is, she’s not perfect…

Lorelei just shrugs. “Hey, no prob with me, either! I gotcher back!” Right…she might have a unique perspective on things, but she’s Lorelei. With her experience, you’re positive that she’ll be able to spot ANYTHING amiss. The issue is that she might also cause…unexpected consequences, whether she means to or not, and whether the result is positive or not. Again- it IS Lorelei.

>Miranda
>Lorelei
>>
>>5081401
>Lorelei
>>
>>5081401
>>Miranda
>>
>>5081401
>Miranda
Hey, she brought herself into this last time.
>>
>>5081401
>Lorelei
>"I'm not saying no to shenanigans Lori, just saying be absolutely certain it won't come back to bite Ai. Jiro sounds like he's taken notice of her, and not in a good way."
>>
I'll have a longer run tomorrow. Ideally, we'd get this whole bit done in a single run. Practically, that's not likely happening. But hey, who knows? Maybe tomorrow I'll finally get used to not trying to force massive posts.
>>
>>5081401
>>5081411
This then.
I like Lorelei less but she was undeniably effective every time we brought her.
>>
Writing shortly. Lorelei it is.
>>
>>5081401
>>5081404
>>5081411
>>5081429
“Then Lorelei, do you mind?” you ask. You think that she’ll appreciate the food well enough…in her own way. You swear you see Miranda sag in relief a bit, too- which further assures you that you made the right decision when she nods. “Thank you. Hopefully we’ll just have a nice dinner, we’ll see what’s going on with her competition, and maybe give some suggestions for improvement.” You’d really rather not learn that something was particularly amiss.

Lorelei laughs. “Hey, always up for free food!” Just as you thought.

“Well, you two have fun with that,” Miranda says easily. “I need some me time after all this crap.”

“What crap besides-” you start, but she gives you a look that has you abandon the thought. It’s not a mean look, but a clearly exasperated one. Either way, you get the picture.

“Hey, no prob,” Lorelei insists. “So it’s a date tomorrow?” You’d rather not phrase it like that, but… “I’ll be there!”

You just hope this all works out.

—--------

This place is very…purple. That’s the first thing you notice. The second is that it’s two stories. That’s unusual, you think. The third is that there’s a coat check. You realize that it’s a high-class place; have for a while. You’d dressed into a proper suit and slacks for this; Lorelei was in a rather lovely sundress and even a hat. But you didn’t think it was quite like this. Chandeliers of nice, plain crystals hanging from gold pipes. A massive, three tiered water fountain in the center. A statue, even! Of a man, long haired, and elven, in a rich suit.

You both have been seated, and Lorelei’s already digging into a rather admittedly nice-looking lamb shank with potatoes. You stuck with some pot stickers to start. Tasty, but not surprising. Not as good as Ai’s, but decent.

"So. See anything odd yet?" you ask her. Lorelei blinks, looking back to you.

>Roll 1d100, best of 3
>>
Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>5082289
>>
Rolled 87 (1d100)

>>5082289
>>
Rolled 84 (1d100)

>>5082289
>>
>>5082289
Seems all of these errands have finally been getting to our antisocial butterfly. Also damn Lori's sharp.
>>
>>5082289
>>5082290
>>5082292
>>5082300
She grins, as she whispers. “A couple things. The second floor seems like it’s got the big boys and girls.” She nods to the balcony above- it’s small, but clearly placed there intentionally to let them see other people below. “Quieter, saw a couple familiar faces.”

“Who?” you ask.

“Remember those two jerkwads that tried to cheat you out before at that showcase?” she asks, and you mutter a confirmation. You do indeed. Claudi and Nero. So, they’re patrons, huh? Interesting. “Yeah, them two. They’re at the edge. Wouldn’t be surprised if they saw us already, but when I noticed them they weren’t facing us.”

So. A rankers only at the top there, maybe? Or possibly specifically VIPs… “Good to know. Anyone else?”

“A few other suits. I’m pretty sure one of them is a major name in Flashpoint, but don’t quote me on that. That’s just me and talking to Kane.” Kane? That name sounds familiar…darn, you hope she doesn’t- “Flashpoint chick. Four of us went drinking, but I don’t think ‘Randa was entirely in her friendlier phase yet. We text.” Ah. “Anywho, I’m thinking that’s the big spot for bigger folks,” she deduces. “I’m wondering if there’s anyone we might be able to see coming out of there besides them.” She pauses. “Actually, thinking about it, they might be good choices in general anyway. We KNOW we’ve got something over them,” she admits. “Going for the surefire could be good if they don’t try to screw us over.”

“What could they even do to us?” you ask. You’ve never been great at this subterfuge, but the way she shakes her head makes you think the answer is ‘more than you’d guess’. So maybe it’s better to hold out. Though you’re worried about people wondering what’s taking you all, meal-wise.

> Maybe we could talk to Kane more? She might know something.
> No, it’s good as it is. Let’s see if anyone interesting looking shows up.
> Those twins are probably our best bet, risks or not.
> Other
>>
>>5082388
> Maybe we could talk to Kane more? She might know something.
After this much time those two still sours my tongue. Better go with a familiar face methinks.
Amanda's rank is unknown to us isn't it?
>>
>>5082388
>Maybe we could talk to Kane more? She might know something.
>>5082393
I think she was C rank, but she was powerful enough for Miranda to sense her aura across the building during the mission where we had to pretend to be a summon for some silly rich kid.
Also Prima was present during that drunken night out with Amanda.
>>
>>5082388
> Maybe we could talk to Kane more? She might know something.
>>
>>5082388
> Maybe we could talk to Kane more? She might know something.

>>5082403
>I think she was C rank, but she was powerful enough for Miranda to sense her aura across the building during the mission where we had to pretend to be a summon for some silly rich kid.
From what I remember, she had some sort of dimentional zipper ability that helped her travel?Man, those were good memories, us trying to get that nerdlinger into some semblance of shape and hanging out with mothmilf...
>>
Kane it is. Writing!
>>
>>5082388
>>5082393
>>5082403
>>5082418
>>5082426
Thinking about it, if you want to play it sagely, maybe Kane’s the better option. You’d rather not deal with THOSE two again. Though the incident was past, you can’t deny a curl of annoyance at their names spool inside you. And waiting could end up with you being too suspicious. “I think it’d be best for us to leave before much longer,” you decide. “Maybe we can talk to Ms. Kane again instead.”

“Hmm…not a bad idea,” Lorelei considers. “She might be able to slip up some info without it being too obvious. I know she’s up for promotion to B Rank. Might be feeling froggy.”

“Oh, I’ll have to remember to congratulate her.” That’s a good idea- with a friendly source, you should be able to see if there’s anything particularly unusual about this place. In the meantime, you still have a partially full plate, and you can at least take the time to look around while you eat. You’ll have to remember to get some meat buns, and probably some of those noodles- Ai was proud of her noodles, and you know she won’t stand to be second best when it comes to THOSE.

The dishes come, and…well, you’re still unconvinced that they’re Ai’s equals, but that might be bias…

“...is it just me or does everything have, like…the SLIGHTEST aftertaste of vegetable oil?” Lorelei says with a mild grimace. “It’s not just me, right?” No, it’s not just her. This kind of cuisine is delicate, and it’s clear- at least, to you- that he’s not showing the requisite love and timing for his dishes. Well, it’s likely staffed by chefs more than just him, but still…

And that’s when you feel like someone has eyes on you. You have to resist turning, but you manage it, and instead look to Lorelei, who’s also gone silent, though she motionless flick of her eyes tells you she knows as well, and may actually see the person in question. There’s a few moments of you two passively eating, before Lorelei slackens a bit. “Guy in a suit. Matched the decor. Wasn’t the guy in the statue, but I bet they’re under the same roof. Wasn’t just us he was watching, though. Was scanning the room. Stopped on a couple others, too.”

“That’s fair,” you decide. “In that case, we need to-”

“Coming back out,” she says quietly, and you both return to your meals. A few seconds later, a man passes you both- purple and gold suit, slicked back silver hair. He’s got glasses, which makes you think of a bouncer, but he nonetheless seems to ignore you as you track him out the corner of your eye. He proceeds up the stairs leading to the second floor.

About a minute later, you notice the twins look towards someone you can’t see. Claudi seems to scowl briefly, while Nero just languidly gets up. Claudi follows, and they both vanish. “The twins are leaving,” you note to Lorelei.

(cont.)
>>
>>5082494


…ten minutes. How long would it take them?

After twenty, you’re a bit alarmed. They STILL haven’t come down yet. “Huh. That’s ultra weird,” Lorelei admits. “Let’s bail, we can talk about this later. I’m getting the not-good tingles, and considering this is at home, I’m worried.” You can’t blame her. Although, the bill…

“Yikes, 3 Large Motes?” Lorelei gawps. It wasn’t THAT much more food! Although Lorelei seems to have been the major cause… “Good thing we’re splitting it.”

Right.

>1.5 Large Motes lost!

You both fortunately exit without any issues, and Lorelei’s quick to begin texting. It’s not long before she gets a response. “Told her where we were and tried to describe the guy. She says that she’s pretty sure that it’s a guy by the name of Torbo Gran, and that he helps coordinate Flashpoint Divisions. So yeah, big player. Says she can come over to talk more tomorrow if we want her to.”

“Right, then.” Looks like you’ve got your next task. “You’ll be with me for that, then?”

“Sure- but it’ll have to be after filming.” Oh, yeah…

>Switch to Miranda- Time to start shooting! Movies, that is.
>Keep as Izumi- This restaurant business is rough.
>>
>>5082496
>>Keep as Izumi- This restaurant business is rough.
I want to go on a mission soon and Miranda is way too busy right now. Have we ever done a full paladin run?
>>
>>5082426
>From what I remember, she had some sort of dimentional zipper ability that helped her travel?
yeah, she had something like that
>>
>>5082499
Also I think we're onto something here that's relevant to Miranda's investigation. iirc Lorelei at some point mentioned a rumor that a weird group of silver-haired individuals were making waves in the Intersection, one of the twins from the movie studio is involved>>5080149, and the Interdiction twins were mentioned in the documents which Delilah found in the Library - maybe they were here to investigate as well.
But that's just a theory. A GAME THEORY!
>>
>>5082496
>Keep as Izumi- This restaurant business is rough.
I'm worried that the favor Miranda earned from the investigator might time out but I'm enjoying this too much to switch over yet.
>>
>>5082496
>Keep as Izumi- This restaurant business is rough.
I suggest switching to Miranda when the investigator's favor is at deadline. Or when we meet Lunaluna again.
On the other note, I'd love to take the new Sunscorch out for a ride. So aye for a short job but nay as Izumi from me, sorry.
>>
>>5082512
>iirc Lorelei at some point mentioned a rumor that a weird group of silver-haired individuals were making waves in the Intersection
Can you link this one?
>>
>>5082578
suptg isn't working so I can't link it right now, but I think it happened somewhere before we informed the Knights Resplendent
>>
>>5082496
>Keep as Izumi- This restaurant business is rough.
>>5082582
Use archived.moe
>>
File: thread 91 the greys.jpg (184 KB, 1634x643)
184 KB
184 KB JPG
>>5082512
>>5082578
>>5082582
okay, figured how to get to the archives and found out I got a few things wrong (it was Lawrence, not Lorelei), but here it is
>>
>>5082676
http://thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2020/4076277/#p4106613
>>
>>5082496
>>5082499
>>5082516
>>5082524
>>5082675
You’d left it to Lorelei to arrange the situation- and as a result the day was mostly a bit of nerves, meditation, and a few katas to keep warm at first. Afterwards…well, the Ranged Training Area had finally finished construction- and what was at first a humble warehouse is, by your estimation, a clear and worthwhile headquarters. While it is still very much ‘open floor’ at the center, it’s definitely gotten more…details, perhaps is the word? Mind, it still falls well short of the OTC’s offerings, and likely not much related to the personal centers at any of the major companies. But it’s quite satisfactory now. At the moment, the range is empty, and it’s here you’ve found yourself for the past hour- largely shooting targets at the range. Pistol ammunition was no great difficulty to conjure- bullets are money, so you’d made due with shaping your mana for this. Even if you didn’t technically have to reload, the familiar sounds of the gun’s machinery at work is…relaxing, in a way.

The *pop pop pop* of target impacts is satisfying enough, and from a 30 meter range your aim is largely impeccable. For a moment, you put the gun down, making sure it’s safety is on, magazine out, dechambered. Just in case. Should you try another weapon, or…

“Hey!” Hm? You turn to see Owlia, of all people, entering the range. She’s got…something in her hand. Ah, looks like that collapsible wand of hers. “Mind a shootin’ buddy?”

Owlia was a…strange one. To say the least. However, despite her occasional social faux-pas (or more accurately complete dismissal of social norms), she wasn’t bad company. “By all means.”

“Neato! I’ve been making some improvements and need to do some testing on the tensile strain of the frame relative to the output.” You’re pretty sure you know what she meant.

(cont.)
>>
>>5084838
Some time passes with only the sounds of firing between the two of you. A quick glance at her lane shows you that she’s surprisingly accurate- not nearly as much as you, but she’s hitting the target more often than not, and her blasts, being much larger than bullets, still have a surprisingly fast travel time. Nothing near bullets, but it’s unlikely that anything not superhuman could dodge them without lead time. After a bit, however, she stops, frowning at her piece. “...that’s not great. Residual build up is too fast. I need another way to dissipate the heat…” You can understand THAT, at least- overheating is a common problem to be avoided in many weapons.

“What’s the rate of fire so far?” you ask out of curiosity. You hadn’t been paying that close attention.

“At the best, just a shot per second. It’s not meant to be quick firing,” she admits. “But it IS supposed to last longer.” She blinks, then seems to look harder at you, grinning. “Say, you’re all gun-happy. Feel like provindin’ some critique maybe?”

“Ah.” You can understand that. Taking a glance at the clock, you realize that Lorelei and Miss Kane should be around in about an hour. You WERE hoping to tidy up and maybe get a few chores done…maybe do some investigation of your own before they showed up.

>Agree to help with her testing. It shouldn’t take TOO long, right?
>Refuse, you already have a friend to help, and it’s a bit more immediate.
>Other
>>
>>5084839
>>Agree to help with her testing. It shouldn’t take TOO long, right?
>Set an alarm on your phone to be sure you won't be late for the meeting
>>
>>5084839
>>5084848
Supporting.
>>
>>5084839
>>5084848
Yeah have a reminder.
>>
>>5084839
Can Izumi regulate how much power her conjured ammo has (to create slower sub-sonic loads for example)? Or change the shape of the projectile? Can she conjure attachments for her weapons (handles, muzzle devices or bayonets for guns, handguards or extra pointy bits for melee)?
>>
File: Spoiler Image (69 KB, 498x499)
69 KB
69 KB JPG
>>5086226
*not handles, grips
>>
hey...is this inspired by Magical Girl Noir, by any chance?
>>
>>5086678
It's completely OG. I read both and can say for sure that they're not even close to being similar - this has a lot more SoL in it and much lower stakes overall. It's a slow burn but worth it.
>>
>>5086832
Ahh, thanks. By the way, is Magical Girl Noir still on indefinite hiatus?
>>
>>5086877
It's still on a hiatus unfortunately.
>>
Writing shortly!

>>5086226
Yes to all factors, but it's usually just more efficient to stick to ammunition.

>>5086678
As others have said, nope. Truth be told? Never actually read that quest.

I DO miss the Magical Girl boom period of questing, though. Great times, those.
>>
>>5084839
>>5084848
>>5084888
>>5084927
“...alright,” you decide after some consideration. Ideally, it wouldn’t take too long, and you’re curious as to what might come of this. But you DO have a prior engagement, so… “Just let me set a reminder,” you state as you set your cell phone to alert you when time was encroaching. “And we can see just what you might be able to do with this.”

You never quite got used to her grin.

The inner workings of wands and the sort weren’t your forte, but you found yourself impressed at her explanations- at least when she remembered to dumb down the terminology and explain it more. It’s times like this that you remember that Owlia is actually extremely intelligent when she bothers to exercise the talent- she just seems to lack a social filter entirely. Still, details on what she’s expecting from the device are quick to come.

A multi-tool, essentially; something not unlike what could be found in stores- apparently she’d visited Lorenzo’s and Kowalski, and came to find that neither of them had ready access to a ‘multispec variable wand. Y’know, for blasting, freezing, burning, can opening, stabbing, brushing your teeth…’
How she managed to pack all that in a 1-foot-three inch long wand, you weren’t sure. You’d taken it through its paces a bit, though, and you were surprised that it, at least somewhat, managed to do all functions advertised. Except the toothbrush thing- you weren’t going to test that. At the end of it all…

“Okay! Survey time!” she says as you hand the device back. Its silver finish is only slightly marred by the heat thanks to the uneven surfaces to allow various tools to rest within. “So, tell me- what was the biggest thing you liked about it?” You’re aware that how you respond will probably directly influence the direction she goes with this thing…

> “You really did manage to cram a lot of utility tools in there. I’m impressed.”
> “I thought the ability to switch firing states so quickly was rather nice. It provides a lot of options in combat.”
> “It’s surprisingly solid for what it is. Feels good in the hand and makes a decent close combat tool.”
> Other
>>
File: Stupefy!.gif (1.37 MB, 500x207)
1.37 MB
1.37 MB GIF
>>5087183
> “I thought the ability to switch firing states so quickly was rather nice. It provides a lot of options in combat.”
A shame it can't stun, but I'd take reliability over utility.
>>
>>5087191
I mean, I really, really wish it could stun as well, but it's already working well enough - adding more modes would make the overheating issue worse. Meaning that it could be used less often, which would be especially bad in combat.
>>
>>5087183
>>5087191
>Does it really need a tooth-brush mode?
>>
>>5087183
> “It’s surprisingly solid for what it is. Feels good in the hand and makes a decent close combat tool.”
> "Have you considered switching out the toothbrush function for a dremel attachment?"
>>
File: file.png (994 KB, 640x830)
994 KB
994 KB PNG
>>5087183
>>5087220
>>5087232
> "Maybe you should separate it into different models instead. One for combat purposes and the other for utility. There will be much more wiggle room that way. "
There's only so much you can cram into the wand before all the tools' efficiency drops. In fact, judging from the heat buildup, it's already crossing that line. It's way better to just create another canvas instead.

I like that she's in the process of making a Gish weapon. Maybe this will convince Miranda to finally try out a wand.
>>
>>5087183
>>5087274
Good idea
>>
>>5087274
Personally, I've always thought that the Baron's Rapier Miranda got from our quest with the Knights of the New Moon would be the closest she ever got to a wand. It powers up her magical attacks, and she can use it in melee just as well.

Was thinking about a request to change the name of the rapier to Duelist's Wand, actually...
>>
>>5087183
>>5087274
Sure
>>5087232
Do they even know what that is?
>>
Writing in about an hour!
>>
>>5087183
>>5087232
>>5087274
>>5088157
You have to admit, there’s positives to be had here. “It’s surprisingly solid for what it is. Feels good in the hand and makes a decent close combat tool.” You’re not sure if you could see yourself using it regularly, but it’s at the very least viable. Although, there is one bit that you’re somewhat concerned about. “Does it really need a toothbrush attachment, though? I feel like that’s a bit…extraneous.”

She pauses for a moment, seeming to consider the statement- and then she pops herself on the head. “Oh, DUH. You’d need toothpast for that to be worth much! I wonder if I can fit a-”

“No, nonono!” you quickly interject. You do NOT want her getting the exact opposite idea. “I’m sayin that perhaps you might be better served splitting the combat functions and utilities into two separate wands. That way you have more wiggle room in terms of what to include.”

“Wellllll, sure I COULD do that,” she acknowledges, “but that means that you’d have to carry a whole ‘nother wand with you! The whole GOAL was for this baby to be a one-stop shop for keeping you alive and out of trouble!”

…right. Not looking to give up on the concept so quickly, then. “In that case, what about…” Hmmm…something that’s useful, might not take up a ton of space, and has a number of options…ah! “...a rotary tool? Perhaps with customizable attachments?”

The way her eyes light you, you think you’ve hit on a winner. “Izumi you mad genius.” You’re not gonna respond to that one. “BUT. We’re not done yet. Every good inventor needs to know the good and the bad,” she insists. “I know it has a bad overheating issue, but what else about it sucks? Like, especially the worst thing! Don’t be afraid, hit me with everything you got!”

Hm. Well, now that she mentioned it…while there were a couple of issues you had with it, the worst thing you found with the device was clearly-

>You found the switching speed to be grossly lacking. It took several seconds to readjust when it came to different elements, which you find unacceptable.
>The range was horrid. It seems like crystal made shots, put through this, don’t seem to hold together as well at longer ranges- past 20 meters and you distinctly noticed fall off. Nasty.
>When opening, the compartments for the non-projectile tools caused some sighting issues. You’re good enough that it didn’t throw you off, but it’s a real point of concern.
>Other
>>
>>5090571
>The range was horrid. It seems like crystal made shots, put through this, don’t seem to hold together as well at longer ranges- past 20 meters and you distinctly noticed fall off. Nasty.
>>
>>5090571
>The range was horrid. It seems like crystal made shots, put through this, don’t seem to hold together as well at longer ranges- past 20 meters and you distinctly noticed fall off. Nasty.
>suggest increasing the speed of the projectiles as well.
So I wanted to make it faster at switching first, but she shouldn't have any businesses at the front line anyway, so she can take her time. Now the second, that's much more versatile.
However, a longer range without better reliability isn't appealing at all, so let's fix that too.
>>
>>5090571
>>5090587
Supporting.
If this pushes the wand into longer ranges does it still need melee tools?
>>
>>5090571
>>5090606
Riiiight, since it needs several seconds to switch. That's like several centuries in skirmishes, time she can't afford to waste if caught in a melee.
>>
>>5090571
>The range was horrid.
>>
>>5090606
>>5090616
It can be used as a melee weapon
>Y’know, for blasting, freezing, burning, can opening, stabbing, brushing your teeth…’
>>
>>5090571
>>5090583
>>5090587
>>5090606
>>5090619
You shake your head. “The range is atrocious. 20 meters before severe falloff of speed and damage potential is just nasty. Unacceptable, really.”

She frowns at that. “Really? I mean, I’d figured it was fine considering the close range capabilities-”

You cut her off there. “If something is made to shoot, it needs to be the best at shooting. I enjoy close combat, but it’s always smarter to fight at a range your opponent cannot as effectively. Generally, that’s at much longer than 20 meters. The fact that it takes too long to switch is a problem, but it’s only a bad one with that kind of lacking effective range. You need to find a way to keep falloff from happening. Probably work out some way to increase the projectile speed, as well.”

She folds her arms, considering. “Thaaaaat would make it more a designated marksman kinda thing, or even a sniper, wouldn’t it?”

“Considering the other issues with it, that’s probably the best you’re going to get,” you tell her plainly. “Having some resources for survival or an emergency engagement isn’t a bad thing, by any means, but you have to have your primary effective range locked down first and foremost. The fact that all your other tools are so slow means that for optimum usage, you’re best to engage from a long distance. Trust me- up the effective range.”

“Mmmm…alright, I’ll keep that in mind,” she says with a surprisingly sober nod. “It’s just such a shame, I had been hoping to have the variability much more at will.” And then she pauses. “Although…maybe if I were to adjust it so that the overflow energy spent from the condensing process were retained in some manner for the next shot…but that’d ruin the cooling even more wouldn’t it…no, no, not if perhaps I could do something with the frost crystal, maybe a secondary…” and with that, she wanders off, lost in thought. You wonder what she’ll come up with thanks to your suggestion…

Well, it’ll likely be useful, at least. As you check your phone, you smile. 45 minutes left. Lovely. Won’t let you get everything done, but getting some cleaning finished should be doable…

You wonder how filming went for those two.

Roll 2d100, best of three.
>>
Rolled 8, 9 = 17 (2d100)

>>5090749
>>
Rolled 47, 52 = 99 (2d100)

>>5090749
>>
Rolled 84, 44 = 128 (2d100)

>>5090749
>“Thaaaaat would make it more a designated marksman kinda thing, or even a sniper, wouldn’t it?”
it would be if we were asking for it to have an effective range close to a kilometer.
>>
>84, 52
Damn those lessons are actually helping.
>>
So it seems! Writing.
>>
>>5090749
>>5090756
>>5090759
>>5090766
When Lorelei saunters in, you’re not surprised. Kane is right behind her, and Miranda as well. Although you’re a bit surprised to see MIRANDA of all people strutting a bit. Well, perhaps that’s a bit heavy of a term. She’s not preening or anything. But she’s got a small smile on her face and she seems happy enough. “Went well?” you venture.

“Sure did!” Lorelei cheers. “I wasn’t given a whole lot for today, so they mostly just put me through some practice runs, but ‘Randa did great!” she insists.

Miranda just shrugs, but you can tell she’s feeling good about it. “They said I got the tone just right. I guess I’m not gonna complain.”

“She’s totally being modest,” Lorelei says, grinning. “But yeah, it’s pretty great. We’re gonna be turnin’ heads during our big scene together!”

“Oh?” you ask as Kane makes a noise in surprise. “You have one?”

“Yeah, long story short it’s like the one time in the movie I’m actually a threat. It’s gonna be great,” she insists. “BUT. We’re not here for that. We’re here for YOU,” she continues, motioning to Kane, who seems to jump a bit being put on the spot, but quickly recovers. “Kaney, spill the beans on the big guy.”

“R-right…so, first of all, the only reason I’m even saying anything is because well…no one really LIKES Gran?” She explains. Like, he came in a bit ago, but he got to his position REALLY fast, even though no one really knows his whole body of work. He SAYS he was a champion gladiator back where he was, and he was good in business, but he never accepts any requests to spar, and anything else gets stonewalled. Not to mention most days we just see him walking around. Like, he’s probably the most outwardly shady guy in Flashpoint so a lot of folks don’t trust him. Except the higher ups, anyway.” And you all know those are the important ones. “So, I’m not surprised to see him at that restaurant. He’s got an ego. Anything else you want to know? I mean, I’m not a total gossip, so I don’t know everything, but…” she trails off, but you get the idea.

Hmmm. What to ask Amanda Kane?

>Pick two.

>Does he seem to know a lot of people?
>Has he notably abused his authority with anyone?
>Does he slack off a lot, then?
>Has anyone else tried to look into him?
>Other
>>
>>5090873
>>Has he notably abused his authority with anyone?
>>Does he seem to know a lot of people? - Anyone with gray hair?
>>
>>5090873
>Has he notably abused his authority with anyone?
>Does he seem to know a lot of people? - Anyone with gray hair?
>>
>>5090873
>Has he notably abused his authority with anyone?
> Does he seem to know a lot of people? - Anyone with gray hair in particular?
>>
>>5090873
>>5090879
>>5090892
>>5090898
“Has he notably abused his authority with anyone?” you find yourself asking. He doesn’t seem like the nicest of people. “Caused much conflict?”

She grimaces. “Yeah, can’t say he hasn’t. It’s kinda an open secret he’s got preferred teams and stuff, but since they get the job done, no one can really raise a stink without getting on his bad side. But he always seems to reserve the real juicy jobs for the same three teams.”

“And those are?” Miranda prompts.

“Team 5, Second Division, Team 7, Fourth Division, and Team 8, Sixth Division.” And then her face shifts into something you can only call disgust. “ESPECIALLY Team 8. And everyone knows that’s just because they're three of the hottest girls in Flashpoint. They’re not even THAT good- I can operate rings around them even on my WORST day. They’re just, like…stupid lucky.” She pauses, letting it sink in. “No, seriously, like STUPIDLY lucky. The only decent one is Isabella, and she’s still not that strong, or fast, or crafty, or anything. She just knows a lot of rando trivia and some math.” Well, that might work depending on the job…but you can see she doesn’t really care to talk about them much.

“Weeelll, does he seem to know a lot of people?” Lorelei leads on. “Say, anyone with gray hair in particular?”

She pauses to think on it. “Well, I don’t see him all that much, myself. He likes to talk about his connections now and then- he loves mentioning his ties in the crafting industry, but I can’t say I’ve ever seen him with anyone with grey hair.”

Drat. Perhaps this is a bit of a dead end, then. You’re not sure how best this would help Ai and her restaurant anyway…although perhaps there’s a tie between it and this weirdness that’s been happening elsewhere lately. If THAT is the case- and you can’t deny that there’s a possibility- then it WOULD be prudent to follow that and see if it can’t be linked back to Jiro’s restaurant. The question is, how to get eyes on him?

>Ask her if she can try to keep a closer eye on Gran herself. It’s likely the safest way for you three.
>Ask her about the possibility of a subcontract, like what you did with Dynamic Methods. That might get you a personal opportunity if you work it right.
>No, no, you’ve got other paths you can follow. This one is already too risky, and you’ve gotten enough info from her.
>Other
>>
>>5090984
>>Ask her about the possibility of a subcontract, like what you did with Dynamic Methods. That might get you a personal opportunity if you work it right.
I really want to go on a job, it's been six months since we've finished the last one.
>>
>>5090984
>Ask her about the possibility of a subcontract, like what you did with Dynamic Methods. That might get you a personal opportunity if you work it right.
>"How are they "lucky"? Is it one of their team members' powers?"
Flashpoint specializes in delivery and retrieval, and Izumi here happens to be our resident speedster.

I REALLY want to do a job with Miranda to test out the Sunscorch though. Perhaps we can do a tag team to shorten it while stretching out some muscles - Izumi can focus on the looting while Miranda toasts people and be a terror.
>>
>>5091031
Well, in case if it won't be possible for Miranda and Izumi to go together - think of it as an opportunity to test out Extreme Tension and Shape Weapon techniques.
>>
>>5091036
Yeah, but I want to get the rust off of our best guns while testing all the those things out, and at the same time digging deeper into this subplot. A lot of work will be done with just a job.
Miranda should be finishing a portion of her acting soon, and I bet she's eager.
>>
>>5090984
>Ask her about the possibility of a subcontract, like what you did with Dynamic Methods. That might get you a personal opportunity if you work it right.
>>
Running in about two hours. I got time today.
>>
>>5091320
Nice
>>
>>5090984
>>5091010
>>5091031
>>5091151
A thought hits you as you consider this issue. Trying to get her close to him all of a sudden and out of the blue might cause…well, more than one issue. It could come off as suspicious, and trying to do it slowly would probably take more time than is feasible. There has to be another way of getting his attention, and possibly in a fashion that could get you face time with him personally.

It’s not the most elegant solution, you think, but you at least have an idea… “Do you think it’d be possible to get a subcontract with Flashpoint?” you ask her.

At that, everyone else in the room jerks in surprise, looking at you. “Hold on now, what?” Kane asks in surprise. “Really?!”

“Yes,” you confirm, before looking at Miranda. This feels like deja vu, for some reason… “Would this interfere horribly with your shooting schedule?”

“Yes and no,” your leader confirms. “I have it written in my contract that my Outgoer assignments take priority. I DO have to make a ‘good faith effort to accomplish all outstanding contracts with all due speed’, and they implied penalties, so chances are I’d have to push the matter. But aside from that, there weren't a ton of restrictions. So really, it’s up to me.”

“Ditto,” Lorelei confirms. “Probably better sooner than later if that has to happen, honestly. They’ve still got a lot of scenes without us they can film.”

Kane looks…nervous. “I-I mean, I guess I could ASK. Say you three might be looking for a subcontract around him and see what happens?” She looks around at you all again. “IS it going to be all three of you?”

> “No, just me.” You don’t want to interrupt their business.
> “Myself and…Lorelei, if Miranda’s okay with it?” She’s a good friend, and if it’s like Flashpoint’s usual stuff, you’d rather someone sneaky about.
> “Myself and…Miranda, if you don’t mind, Lorelei?” Miranda’s rational. Level-headed. Efficient. She’d be quite helpful no matter the type of job.
> “Yes, all three of us.” The more the merrier, and you like to think that when firing on all cylinders, you three are near unstoppable.
>>
>>5091437
> “Myself and…Miranda, if you don’t mind, Lorelei?” Miranda’s rational. Level-headed. Efficient. She’d be quite helpful no matter the type of job.
As said before. Dunno if Lorelei got tagged yet in the restaurant, but Miranda is less suspicious because she never went there.
>>
>>5091437
> “Myself and…Miranda, if you don’t mind, Lorelei?” Miranda’s rational. Level-headed. Efficient. She’d be quite helpful no matter the type of job.
>>
>>5091437
> “Myself and…Miranda, if you don’t mind, Lorelei?” Miranda’s rational. Level-headed. Efficient. She’d be quite helpful no matter the type of job.
>>
>>5091437
> “Myself and…Miranda, if you don’t mind, Lorelei?” Miranda’s rational. Level-headed. Efficient. She’d be quite helpful no matter the type of job.
Woo!
>>
>>5091488
Well, this ties in with Miranda's promise to help Ai. 'Friends and all that.'
>>
Writing!
>>
>>5091437
>>5091447
>>5091470
>>5091488
>>5091490
“I think it would be best to mention myself, and…” you pause, considering for a moment. But it doesn’t take too long to decide. After all, she’d promised. “Miranda, if you don’t mind, Lorelei?”

“Naaah,” she shrugs. “Maybe I can get a few things done for me while you’re out.”

“Well, I’m not even sure if they’ll say yes!” Kane warns. “And even then, it might be that he’ll never actually talk to you. Not to mention this isn’t like a small operation like you guys are- we get assigned jobs, we don’t get to pick and choose.”

“No, we used to get assigned jobs, too,” you assure. “Sal is just easygoing.”

“Sides’,” Lorelei chimes in, “I’m sure if you float the name Silver Eye Solutions in front of him, he’ll perk up. IF he’s got anything to do with what we’re thinking of, that is.” She’s got a point. You don’t think he’ll reveal anything, of course, but he might see it as an opportunity. For what, you don’t know.

“I get the suspicion he’ll go for it,” opines Miranda. “Call it a hunch. We’ll wait for your response.” At least she’s got no objections for going with you.

With that, after trading contact information, the ‘meeting’ is adjourned for lack of anything further to discuss. You, for your part, decided to finish cleaning up.

(cont.)
>>
>>5091608
The very next day, you get an email with a job listing along with a simple line of text.

>“He bit. You have two options.”

>Recommended Outgoers: 2-3
>Recommended Competencies: Mechanical Racing, Mechanical Repair, Sabotage, Subterfuge, Vehicular Combat.
>Recommended Level: B-A
>Acknowledged Risks: Civilian Casualties, Infrastructure Damage.
>Technological Specification Examples: Antigravity, Plasma-based power sources, Microchip Data Relay.
>Estimated Job Completion Time: 2.5 Weeks Local Time
>Noted Direct Opposition? No
>Personalized Posting: Normally I wouldn’t be spending so much on mechanics, but this is quite literally a race for the planet! I was told that you lot can outrun anything, so I need the absolute best in mechanics to know how to keep our gear up to snuff, prevent any sabotage- and, maybe, deal some damage to the opposition. We’re talking major, country-long races, so you need to be able to keep up! Apprentices NOT wanted.

>Riders Added: Designated Role (Pit Crew/Mechanic/Substitute Racer)
>Total Offered Payment: 60 Large Motes

Mechanical duties, huh? It’d almost require you to ask for Owlia’s help. You’re not sure HOW skilled she is in that aspect of technology, but she’s been sinking her teeth into everything, so you’re sure she’s got SOME knowledge about it. Either way, it sounds interesting- and the prize is the planet’s safety? You can certainly understand that, and it sounds worthwhile.

As for the other one…

>Recommended Outgoers: 1-2
>Recommended Competencies: Subterfuge, Stealth, Hand to Hand Combat, Vehicular Driving, Magic Detection
>Recommended Level: B-A
>Acknowledged Risks: Infrastructure Casualties.
>Technological Specification Examples: Steam-based Vehicles/Devices, Powder-based projectile weapons.
>Estimated Job Completion Time: One Week Local Time (Variable)
>Noted Direct Opposition? Yes
>What kind?
>Personalized Posting: My business has been entirely above board. It’s meant well, for certain! However, fate just loves to kick me when I’m down. Not only is there a vicious fog that’s settled down near everywhere and causing some good, respectable people and beasts to devolve into slavering, feral idiots, but there’ve been peddlers of so-called ‘cures’ that have been making the problem worse! That makes my job harder- I HAVE a cure. Or at least, part of one. I don’t have the resources to make the catalyst here. But I know who does. Take it to her- to them. They can fix this! At least, the insanity. The Fog itself will take more work…
>Riders Added: Designated Role (Courier)
>Total Offered Payment: 32 Large Motes

Oh dear. Hmmm…that sounds…dangerous. You’re not sure what it’ll take to get it delivered if you DO choose it, but it also sounds rather threatening. It’ll take careful traveling and a lot of effort, it sounds like.
>>
>>5091611
>Courier
Plenty of targets to test Miranda's flamethrower technique on, and her familiars could be useful for that 'Magic Detection' thing
>>
>>5091611
…I think you forgot the mission names, Boss.

Regardless, I choose the courier job. We might not be couriers exactly, but we’re definitely not racers or pit crew, even with Miranda’s gauntlets.
>>
>>5091631

Nope, Flashpoint's Proprietary UI doesn't bother with mission names. Too many to bother with.

I DID forget the ID numbers, however.
>>
File: file.png (3.47 MB, 2560x1811)
3.47 MB
3.47 MB PNG
>>5091611
Second one, Courier job.

You're dangling Bloodborne in front of us and expect us NOT to take it?
>>
>>5091611
We'll be delivery gals.
>>
>>5091634
Must be nice, being so high up in the ranks that you don't even have the time to name your missions...

>>5091638
Thank god I've been stocking up on Bloodborne fan sequel trick weapons!

Also, we should ask if either Owlia or the Coven might be interested in getting samples of goofy gas for research, or anything else they'd be interested in.

Wonder if Miranda can use this mission to gain inspiration to create a few new scenes for the movie.
>>
Gonna give it another hour just for thoroughness' sake. I usually like to wait a bit on job votes anyway. And like people have said, it's been a while.
>>
>>5091611
>>5091618
>>5091638
>>5091643
You take some time to consult with Miranda, but ultimately, the decision is made due to the time involved.

‘We’ll take the courier job’, you respond.

‘Cool. Remember this a subcontract so you go with someone on our team.’ …you think for a moment you’d forgotten about that. ‘Don’t worry about the pay split we’ll work that out when you get here. Prob going with a C rank since there’s not many big names available rn. Don’t think they’ll let you go alone cause that means you can claim you got it without them’ Ah. Also true.

‘Can’t be you?’ you ask immediately.

‘Probs not but I can request’ is the response. ‘Not my call.’ Right, of course. ‘Expect formal inquest in a few hours.’

‘Will do.’ Alright, that’s part of it. Now, you just need to prepare. As is often the case, wardrobe is going to be important, and so it’s first on your list. You have a couple of outfits that might work for such a locale…

> Store is Open. Available Motes:

>Izumi: 64.67
>Miranda: 100.25
>Spreadsheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1H43OFoxE9QyMgIqBg_YdPO7IPn7_ES6iST7Xnv9Ou7Q

Alternatively, choose from a premade set:

>Wandering Warrior: This set is martially focused and meant to project your power and poise. Let opponents underestimate you at their peril.

>Stats:
-Intimidation: B
-Humor: D
-Otherworldly: C
-Hotheadedness:C-
-Plainness:C
—--------------------------

>Amaterasu: By your spirit, you will flush out all wickedness! Even your mere presence will cause those of wicked hearts to flee, no doubt.

>Stats:

-Intimidation: C
-Humor: C
-Otherworldly: B+
-Hotheadedness: B
-Plainness: E
—-----------------------------
>Middling Merchant: Not your usual methods, but sometimes you need to be less conspicuous. Their eyes will glaze over your with nary a care…

>Stats:
-Intimidation: D
-Humor: B
-Otherworldly: E
-Hotheadedness: C-
-Plainness: A
—----------------------------

>Darkwatch: To dance on the razor’s edge of darkness…that’s what this says to you. You’ve used this outfit relatively recently, but it may hold well here.

>Stats:
-Intimidation: B
-Humor: D
-Otherworldly: C+
-Hotheadedness: C-
-Plainness: D-
>>
>>5091827
Damn it, of course they'd send someone over. Now it has become an escort mission.

Whatever happens, I think we should take a look at the nerds' Rental and Borrow again. That invisibility plate will come in handy.
>>
>>5091827
>Amaterasu
The job mentions stealth, but I think this would be fun to play with. And fire/ sun affinity wouldn't hurt in this setting. Unless anyone has custom set-ups I'll vote for this.
>>
I miiiight just let this rock for the rest of the day. Let people consider it.
>>
>>5091847
Is there a limit on how many things we can borrow from O&C?
>>
>>5091850
3, I believe was the limit last time. If it wasn't, 3 is the limit this time.
>>
>>5091827
>Amaterasu

>>5091836
I'm thinking we take the Mana Extractor, see if we can pull out some of whatever is making the locals crazy. Oh, and the TransPortal Plates, especially if we're going to make a return trip.

Other than that, shame we sold off all our flintlocks, but see if we can nab the Manastone Revolver back. Might work if we claim it's an advanced prototype spell pistol.
>>
File: file.png (11 KB, 724x122)
11 KB
11 KB PNG
>>5091852
So I checked the previous job.
Is 3 normal items + 2 Crystals still appliable?
http://thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2020/4362744/#p4399181
>>
>>5091854
Oh, yeah, almost forgot, since we're going to Bloodborne-land next, Miranda should probably stop by Prianna's Perfect Permanency and pick up her Holy Moonlight Sword equivalent before the next mission.
>>
>>5091858
Fast on the snips Anon
>>
>>5091858
In the interests of consistency, sure.
>>
File: outfits.jpg (148 KB, 1214x630)
148 KB
148 KB JPG
>>5091827
Going to suggest these somewhat matching costumes for our gals. The one for Miranda has items with interesting enchantments that could gel together. The one for Izumi turned out quite pricey, but think of it as an investment - the Divine Shoes are great, Wings would help in combat and during the travel as well and the Pleasant Necklace might help in her future jobs.
Also having matching outfits that are opposite in theme is cute. They both got fire swords as well!
>>
>>5091827
>>5091862
Right, Miranda should probably pick up her treated stuff and borrow Lorelei's Mana Dampener that we bought for the last crossover (Izumi has her own). Judging by the job description we might have to deal with Magic Detection.
I figure voting on what to borrow from Owlia and which HQ rooms should we use would be after this post?
>>
File: file.png (393 KB, 566x800)
393 KB
393 KB PNG
>>5091827
Normally I'm keen on staying small for this but >>5091874 is really thematic and I don't want to see customs like that go to waste, so supporting. Both getups have wings even.

Anyhow, voting for these borrows:
>Mana Extractor (for sucking out the spooky bits, in case Pecker becomes a picky eater)
>TransPortal Plates
>Protection Sigil Plate (even more protection against magic), can be swapped for Vanishing Plate.

>2x Shield Crystals
>1x Assault Crystals.
Pick up all of our treated stuffs blah blah blah. Miranda should borrow Lori's damp too if she's able.

This job will be a short one, only lasting a week. So I vote for the Physical Combat Training Area instead of the usual Meditation Room. There will be a lot of close-quartered brawling.
>>
>>5091874
>>5091884

We could have Maranda buy the Warrior of light set and keep Izumi on Amaterasu. I think they would still match with a light heroic theme. More importantly maybe is we would only need to have Maranda pay out 8 motes for;

Sun Warrior's Top 4
Genie-ish Leggings 4

Instead of having Izumi buying a whole new outfit on her tight budget.
>>
>>5091827
>>5091884
Switching to
>Miranda on Seer
>Izumi on Amaterasu
That's my final vote I think. Still thematic enough and doesn't kill Izumi's wallet. Although I do feel like she should invest in a pair of Divine Shoes.
>>
>>5091890
desu Izumi kept mentioning her problem with funds and I assumed that she would have around 20 Lotes or less on her. But instead she has whopping SIXTY! That's more than Miranda had at the very start of the quest. I think we have some room here.
>>
>>5091899
*wiggle room
>>
>>5091827
>Middling Merchant

This one seems to suit the courier job. Being an unsuspecting merchant would fit in rather well for someone meant to deliver goods right?
>>
>>5091827
>Middling Merchant
>Seer Miranda
But modify it so it resembles Middling Doctor/Nurse instead.
>>
Thinking about it, I'm really liking the idea of both girls having wings.
>>
>>5091933
3-D mobility is always good, but if it comes at the cost of large wings I'm against it.
>>
>>5091827
as much as I like the light/dark theme idea, the job is just to deliver some goods. the job also states that they would like stealth and subterfuge as recommended competencies.
So I'll go with
>Izumi: middling merchant for stealth
>Miranda: seer outfit for distraction and intimidation


If the light/dark theme wins, remember to get:
> the vanishing plate
>sigil transportal plate pair
>Assault crystals
and
>Miranda borrows Lori's mana dampener necklace
>>
>>5091827
Finally some action!
>Middling Merchant
>Seer
I like this more, we don't need two giant attractions.
Voting for the portal plates, vanishing plate, extractor and some assault/shield crystals.

Other anons raised some good points about Izumi needing some 3D mobility. She might be faster but Miranda can fly and walk on air with barriers.
>>
>>5091854
>>5091862
I don't think Handler would rip off Bloodborne one-for-one. Flintlocks could be greatly outdated, replaced with percussion locks and breechloaders.
There was also a requirement for Vehicular Driving skills, so we might have to ride in a steam-powered car. Since it's a job with time restrictions, I figure there could be relatively fast ones resembling steam cars that were contemporaries of the early combustion engine vehicles.
>>
File: Webley-Fosbery_Handgun.jpg (173 KB, 1024x597)
173 KB
173 KB JPG
>>5091827
A few questions about Izumi's inventory:
Since they're made of her mana, do weapons, ammo and attachments conjured with Shape Weapon technique glow or not?
Is there anything special about Izumi's guns or her other weapons that we couldn't know from Miranda's perspective?
Are the automatic pistols in her inventory different models or are they the same? Izumi has mentioned once that she preferred not to mix technology too much, and something like pic related or this (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mateba_Autorevolver) might both fit and look outlandish at the same time in many settings. Automatic revolvers technically count as an 'automatic pistols' and models of revolvers and slide pistols exist that use the same caliber ammo.
How is the Heavy Assault Rifle that she bought for MGR crossover different from her old Assault Rifle? Is it just a term for 'battle rifle' and just uses full-size rifle ammo? Or is it a specialized CQB gun that fires bigger slower bullets that can punch through cover (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIQ7LodSFiI&ab_channel=DemolitionRanch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jN-uybi9_jg&t=78s&ab_channel=LazarevTactical)? Or something like Doomguy's heavy machinegun (https://doom.fandom.com/wiki/Heavy_Assault_Rifle)?
Back in thread #75 Izumi and Prima completed an HQ-Task for Minus-One Company and we got rewarded with an armory for our base. Did they get Minus-One brand weapon as well? What is it and who has it?
>>
>>5091827
Are we voting only for outfits right now? We're not leaving immediately after this, right?
>>
>>5094254
From the looks of things it's general prep - outfits and R&D borrows. I feel like next post will be a vote on the room to use.
>>
>>5091969
desu Ribbon Wings don't turn into wings all the time - they became a jet-pack in post-apoc mecha and flying school fuel delivery missions. Looks like it'll be a magitech/steampunk setting, so it could be a fancy flying cloak or a rocket pack.
But since the Merchant set is winning and we still want 3-D mobility, let's go with:
>Vanishing Sigil Plates x2
>Sigil TransPortal Plate Pair
>Levitation Crystals x2
>>5091854
>>5092367
Also Izumi could lend Miranda one of the Clockwork Carbines that we've snatched during Artificer crossover and the boss-girl has a fancy uber-crossbow as well
and now she can become Marvelous Chester https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxX3fqFfQow&ab_channel=ZullietheWitch
>>
>>5094268
Maybe before using the rooms can we finally do something for Gartoum? We haven't got to looking for summoner/shadow services to reward/update Gart. And does Pecker have a cage or bed to sleep on? We'll have to leave a bowl full of mana crystals before Miranda leaves.
>>
>>5094467
I thought we'd be taking Pecker with us? He'd help us with mana detection.
Also what can we even do for Gartoum? We had an opportunity when we visited Guild of Shadows' HQ, but I have no idea what to ask.
>>
>>5094467
>>5094469
We're taking him with us. Pecker is much more magically sensitive than Miranda (he was sniffing out and disabling illusions left and right near the last stretch of the Dragongirl job). If things get too hot he can just hide in the bag for a while, no biggy.
>>
>>5094254
Correct. There's still time for prep after this, including weapons purchasing and any other stuff you want to do for the day. Remember, this is a subcontract, so you have to head to Flashpoint HQ.

(Semi-spoilers because it'll be in the next update: you have a day to prepare.)
>>
>>5094454
Wish we could have asked Mono if we could have borrowed her grenade launcher for some Vietnam convoy action before she went on her mission.

Ah well, we'll just have to do some on-site procurement, then...
>>
>>5094608
Hope this won't disappoint Handler, since this is the first job in half a year even though it will be shorter than usual (the only move you can make to break this is to have our Flashpoint escort be exceptionally bad or unfitting desu).
>>
We'll see. Oh, and obviously I'll be taking the weekend off. At any rate, writing in about an hour and a half.
>>
File: magiblast.png (215 KB, 950x1243)
215 KB
215 KB PNG
>>5095073
You're sayin this as if we'd complete it in a week or two of real time. There were missions that took only a few days in-character to complete but lasted a couple of months IRL: the one where we pretended to be a summon, mecha post-apocalypse one, the Mafia job and basically every crossover mission.
>>5094789
There's no restrictions to use magic in this mission, so I don't see why we should restrain and limit ourselves by using setting-specific weapons like that when we have magi-blasts.
>>
>>5095125
While that's true that magic would be more effective, I do think that Jago would appreciate a handheld cannon as a souvenir, plus, y'know, inspiration for the movie.

That's assuming we can loot one for free, mind. Not gonna suggest we buy one.
>>
>>5095125
Nice combo potential.
I've been imagining that looking into leg channeling can eventually lead to actual flight instead of just jumps.
>>
>>5095125
>pic
Can Izumi channel through her legs? Never seen her do anything like that before. I like the idea though, we can give that a try when we get a training session. It appears to be more practical than the One-inch punch.
>>
Alright, starting writing. Seems like it's

>Middling Merchant
for Izumi, and

>Seer
for Miranda?

If so, I'll progress to proper weapons' purchasing.

Also wow they're gonna look a pair.

Furthermore, this was not (only) inspired by Bloodborne. There's more than a couple other games that inspired this, too...
>>
File: Air Shift Techninque.jpg (114 KB, 1502x267)
114 KB
114 KB JPG
>>5095194
We did get 'Air Shift' technique during the shadow war mission + Miranda learned flamethrower technique, so maybe she can learn how to actually fly without wearing Ribbon Wings or using Owlia's Levitation Crystals
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SoFlqIaDJ8U&ab_channel=GravityIndustries
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtvCnZqZnxc&ab_channel=GravityIndustries
>>5095198
>Can Izumi channel through her legs?
Miranda has taught her the Low-Quickening technique but I don't know if she can cast offensive spells through her legs.
>>
File: null-4.jpg (387 KB, 1920x1080)
387 KB
387 KB JPG
>>5095205
There's nothing to see here but a wanderer from a foreign region and her eldritch companion.
>>
>>5095205
Sure, like Sekiro.
>>5095211
Ahh, I remembered being able to avoid terrain debuffs but I forgot or missed that. True flight is within our grasp!
>>
File: Steamboy (2004).gif (4.34 MB, 482x249)
4.34 MB
4.34 MB GIF
>>5095205
Have you seen Steamboy by any chance?
>>
File: Marvelous_chester_art.jpg (235 KB, 1000x1448)
235 KB
235 KB JPG
>>5095211
>Also wow they're gonna look a pair.
they sure will
>>
>>5091827
>>5095205
As you take the time to consider what you’ll be wearing, you indeed get a message from Flashpoint- a formal inquiry as to availability and request for a subcontract with them for a ‘Courier assignment of great importance.’ You roll your eyes at the puffery, but respect it in a weird way. ‘If’ you accept, they want you (and one other ‘of respectable trust and skill’) there tomorrow, bright and early. You confirm, and return to your wardrobe dilemma.

If you want to something to arrive safely, without fear of molestation by rabble-rousers or even worrisome monsters, the best weapon is to not be a target in the first place. All you need is a plain vest, perhaps some glasses, not even a hat- a simple headscarf should do fine here. Finish it with a simple and plain dress and some flat, but easy to move in beige shoes, and all’s well.

You’re certain that Miranda will come up with something worthwhile on her own, though you know she’ll probably come to the same conclusion if perhaps down a different road. While she always proclaimed she didn’t mind ‘easy’ jobs, or ones with a lack of combat, she never seemed to really complain about it when they happened…

Well, you’ll leave that be for now. Considering the location and situation, you’re also going to need to make sure you have proper armaments; you don’t think that it’ll be such a situation that automatic weapons will be…well, you might be able to use them in secret, but very much not in the open where anyone can see. That just begs for trouble. No, best to either procure on site or see what can be acquired. That clockwork carbine that you held onto might work quite well here, actually…

>...but best see what’s on sale anyway. (Weapon’s shopping.)
>...and that should take care of you quite nicely- now for ‘accessories’. (Move on to Owlia’s R&D.)
>...and really, that’s all you need, barring some last minute mental preparation. (Choose an HQ Bonus)
>...and you should be good to go. Best to take it easy today, considering tomorrow is likely to be hard.
>>
>>5095251
Is this when we vote for ALL of these things?
>>
>>5095256
No, there's going to b-

Actually, it would save some time if you did, huh? I hate doing multiple votes in one post because I'm always worried it'll get too cluttered. But I guess we can try it out if you want.
>>
>>5095251
>>...but best see what’s on sale anyway. (Weapon’s shopping.)
Could you please answer these questions>>5092367? Or can we vote on what kinds of weapons she actually has? We know what weapons she already has from the list you made from Artificer crossover but those simple terms that were used for Izumi's tools of trade aren't very descriptive.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Kj00CtC5_cYWFCmRqc3h68q-OdQwCui3dgxQDbordEQ/edit
>>
>>5095260
Oh, right.

-Yes, anything made with Shape Mana glows slightly. Think of it like a hard-light construct.

-Not particularly. What's there is there.

-They're a pair and look identical. I actually had Borderlands in mind when concepting them.

-Higher caliber rounds, smaller magazine size, slightly slower rate of fire than an assault rifle.

-I never mentioned that? Oof. Izumi was meant to get a directed energy weapon, a bolt thrower in the vein of Unreal Tournament's Shock Rifle. Prima...unfortunately, I forget. I want to say it was some sort of needler-esque weapon.
>>
>>5095251
Right, I'm going for these borrows.

>Vanishing Sigil Plate
>Sigil TransPortal Plate Pair
>Mana Extractor
I'd want the anti-magic plate as well, but I'm not sure Pecker can handle eldritch mana.
> 2x Levitation Crystals, 1x Assault Crystal

>Physical Combat Training Area
Slugger-fests are expected.

And, just to be sure, pay a visit to the weapon shop as well.
>...but best see what’s on sale anyway. (Weapon’s shopping.)
>>
File: tracers.png (59 KB, 500x375)
59 KB
59 KB PNG
>>5095269
Welp, there goes the idea of creating silencers and sub-sonic ammo with Shape Weapon. And every conjured round is a tracer too.
>>
>>5095251
Is the turret repaired?
>>
>>5095285
Should be by now.
>>
>>5095251
since we're doing everything at once
Owlia's R&D:
>>Vanishing Sigil Plates x2
>>Sigil TransPortal Plate Pair
>>Levitation Crystals x2
HQ Bonus:
>Physical Combat Training Area - spar with Miranda
Izumi might need some practice with her new toys that she's been gifted (the Flame Scimitar made by Artificer MC and Razor Shield from Miranda's dragon-girl mission), and Miranda could take some sword-fighting lessons.
Also for those who don't know - we have a Community Item Pool now. Check SES Headquarters sheet in the docs.
>Borrow Draining Combat Knife
>Take the Clockwork Turret
>>
>>5095251
>>5095258
Okay, then...

>...but best see what’s on sale anyway. (Weapon’s shopping.)

>R&D
>Sigil TransPortal Plate Pair
>Mana Extractor
>Multiversal Comms
>2 Shield Shards

>HQ Bonus
>Physical Combat Training Area

Take the Clockwork Turret, the Clockwork Carbine, the Manastone Pistol (for Miranda), and the Draining Knife.
>>
>>5095251
In case we can take two invis plates copies I'm going with >>5095288, else >>5095278
. Take the turret, knife and Lori's mana dampener.
>>
>>5095251
>>5095278
In addition
>Take the Clockwork Turret, the Clockwork Carbine, the Manastone Pistol, and the Draining Knife.
Tag Miranda to borrow Lorelei's dampener too.
>>
>>5095251
>>5095260
>>5095288
>Grab Manastone Pistols for yourself and Miranda and Elemental Stones for them
>Tag Miranda to borrow Lorelei's dampener too.
Unless they've been taken apart by our researchers. Kinda want to grab manastone shotguns instead but they're not as practical. And Clockwork Carbines are already in Izumi's inventory.
I hope we're taking Miranda to shop with us, she needs a regular gun with no magic enhancements - for magic-resistant enemies or jobs where we're prohibited from using magic. Also, since we'll be dealing with dangerous fog we might have to buy Divine Respirator for Izumi.
>>
>>5095251
Probably a small thing but it will be good if the weapon shop has some good, new selections. Miranda can use something mundane but reliable like >>5095530 stated.
>>
Writing! Let's at least get this done before the holiday weekend.
>>
>>5095251
>>5095278
>>5095530
>>5095300
…but it’s probably best to see what’s on sale anyway, you ultimately decide. That said, looking at the situation, you can at least wager what would be good for you in terms of borrowing from your erstwhile friend and inventor.

>Vanishing Sigil Plate
>Sigil TransPortal Plate Pair
>Mana Extractor

...aaaand a couple of those levitation crystals as well, just in case. On Miranda’s recommendation, you request an assault shard from her as well- it’s thrown over as she’s too busy working on that wand- or rather a revision of it, from what you can tell. Cylica’s busy with…something, you’re not sure what, with that Seither material. It’s all swirling in some sort of device of hers…but that’s little concern to you.

With the experimental devices (and recording tool) stashed away, you decide to get armed. That Clockwork Carbine gun and the turret should be fine- you can see it’s finally repaired, and you’re glad for it. You’ll need to ask Lorelei for the Manastone Pistol- though you don’t see why she wouldn’t accept- and the Draining Combat Knife is plucked from the community chest. Handy.

Thinking about it, maybe you’ll need to ask them both a few things, really…

(Cont.)
>>
>>5096249
—-------

“So why are we here again?” Miranda asks as you both stand in from of Kowalski’s later that day.

“You need something a bit more…appropriate,” you insist.

“I thought we already had clockwork weapons,” she notes. “Wouldn’t those be appropriate enough?”

“Yes, but would you really only carry one weapon with you into combat?” You both know the answer to that, which makes her reluctance even more illogical. “We won’t be long, just come on.”

“Fiiine,” she says as you both head in.

Kowalski’s never without the proper goods, of course, and without a problem, he brings you to the ‘Steamworks’ section. “Weapons like this ain’t uncommon, but they’re kinda for a particular audience, if’n ya ask me,” he opines. “Almost like to think they’re more reliable, some folks. Even if you can’t get near the rate of fire or caliber outta them.”

There’s a few that do indeed catch your eye…

> ‘Twin Devils’ .38 Pistol Pair: This pair of gold and silver long barrel pistols are…well, gaudy, to be sure, but they pack a punch, by all accounts.
Cost: 2 Lotes

> Crankfire Pistol: A double barrelled pistol backed by a strange wheeled design. It doesn’t actually seem to need a crank, at least, but it more reminds you of a sawed-off shotgun than anything else, even if it IS clearly smaller. Kowalski promises that it ‘hits like a frictionless truck’ and can work with multiple bullet sizes.
> Cost: 4 Lotes

>’King’s Shot’ Sniper Rifle: A mechanical sniper rifle, if with a lot of metal engravings on it and clearly meant for high society. Nonetheless, it’s effective range is a little over a mile- approximately 1.2.
>Cost: 2.5 Lotes

>’Old Sea’ Clockwork Rifle: This rifle was handcrafted, and seems to be capable of more than firing bullets; in fact, it seems to be able to double as a harpoon or grappling hook gun. Comes with said attachments included.
> 4 Lotes
>>
File: Card_Print_RootingArrows.png (2.14 MB, 2550x3300)
2.14 MB
2.14 MB PNG
>>5096251
> ‘Twin Devils’ .38 Pistol Pair
> Crankfire Pistol

The Twins for us, Crankfire for Miranda.

Should also check if there's any specialty arrows and crossbow bolts for sale. Also, Miranda should check and see if the Manastone Pistol could use Seither crystals as ammo.
>>
>> 5096251
Izumi should already have a sniper rifle, right?
>>
>>5096251
Honestly, Miranda already has Golden Crossbow and that fancy 'Wonderland' coilgun that we've never used for long ranges - and no-one is supposed to see you anyway when you shoot from such distances. Harpoon gun is something that could find use only in missions where magic is restricted - her sticky mana makes it redundant otherwise. And .38 doesn't sound that powerful to me - it's almost 9mm. Same arguments mostly apply to Izumi.
The only interesting piece is Crankfire Pistol, but...
>Check out another gun section. Something more mundane.
Revolver or lever-action stuff should be able to pack a punch while looking authentic.
>>
>>5096258
Yes, she has a sniper rifle - used it a few times during Mono's first group mission. And the way snipers operate, you wouldn't be able to tell what kind of gun they actually have.
>>
File: Colt_Revolving_Rifle.jpg (22 KB, 600x445)
22 KB
22 KB JPG
>>5096264
Shotguns, rifles and pistols exist for both types of action. And they wouldn't be locked into steampunk settings only.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcanic_Repeating_Arms
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MTs255
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mateba_Autorevolver
>>
>>5096258
As stated, she does.
>>
>>5096264
>>5096280
And another reason why I don't want Clockwork guns - they cost more motes
>>
>>5096280
Our weapons change shape and style to fit the world. Could just let them hang on our belt when we arrive to let them adapt, if they don't have any social stats on them.
>>
>>5096289
iirc they don't, only our clothes do
>>
>>5096288
I'm not seeing anything about clockwork guns from that. Are you confusing them with magic guns? Besides, we absolutely can afford it.

>>5096290
The rapier changed during the Shining Hears mission to fit our bug alien look, but that was a while ago, admittedly.
>>
>>5096295
>I'm not seeing anything about clockwork guns from that. Are you confusing them with magic guns? Besides, we absolutely can afford it.
It says that normal stuff cost around 1 L - dirt cheap, sensible and not restricted to a single specific setting. Clockwork guns listed here cost more, and the pistol pair's description doesn't even say if they are single-shot or not.
>The rapier changed during the Shining Hears mission to fit our bug alien look, but that was a while ago, admittedly.
>You look to your side, where you had placed the baron’s rapier- and that’s when you realize that it seems to be stuck to the side of you. You’re entirely undamaged, but the rapier itself is stuck to your body, as though it’s a part of you, or perhaps was velcroed on. You detach it will little fanfare, and display it to him. “For objects such as this.”
It doesn't say that the weapon itself has changed shape though.
>>
>>5096302
They're six shot.
>>
>>5096305
Do our weapons change their shape and style to fit the world?
>>
>>5096305
I think he means the firing action, like are they double action or single action.

Anyways, do weapons still change to fit the missions, or is that old canon?
>>
>>5096308
>>5096309

No, they are as is if treated/bought from the Intersection.

>>5096309
Oh. Full disclosure, I know jack and shit about real-world guns. I basically am researching this in real time and I'm rather lost, to be honest.
>>
>>5096309
>>5096305
the description was just 'long barrelled pistol pair'. It wasn't clear if they were single-shot muzzle-loaders, lever-action pistols or revolvers of some sort.
>>
>>5096316
Sorry for giving you shit, but it's kinda odd considering one of the main girls is a gun-nut who's told Miranda's ears off about different bullet types at one point.
>>
>>5096319
No, it's fair, I'm just saying in the interest of full disclosure. I have a general idea about guns and how they work, but the particulars of gun makeup and whatnot are completely alien to me.
>>
>>5096316
>>5096321
>I basically am researching this in real time and I'm rather lost, to be honest.
No problem. Most of my firearm awareness is through cultural osmosis through videogames and movies. Single action revolvers require you to pull back the hammer before you're able to fire, while double actions automatically recock so you don't have to.

So, going off by the mention of them being six shot, the Twin Devils are probably western style double action revolvers.
>>
>>5096324
that means we're paying 1 Lote per revolver. We might find something in larger caliber for the same price without overpaying for the gold/silver plating. Also automatic revolvers is a concept that existed for over a century - they automatically recock the hammer AND cycle the drum.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zk-UCHsyTh4&ab_channel=RoyalArmouries
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDVVUmr3lcQ&ab_channel=LifeSizePotato
>>
>>5096324
I suppose? The idea was 'old-timey revolvers with some bling and a bit extra'. Because as I said, I didn't really DO standard guns. Like, that'd just be a general list with some Mote (not Lote) prices, I'd wager. Like, as an example, your run of the mill Colt Single Action Army (Or as I know it 'That Gun That Revolver Ocelot Likes') would cost, like, 10 motes. An AK would cost about 20.
>>
>>5096367
Also, Izumi's standard 'Assault Rifle'? It's just an M16 but I couldn't think of the actual name at the time.
>>
File: on-fire-cowboy.gif (1.27 MB, 498x295)
1.27 MB
1.27 MB GIF
>>5096324
>>5096367
To be fair, there's no indications that they would be double action. Usually people think of single action revolvers when wild west is mentioned. Fanning looks cool.
>>
>>5096251
by the way, we ended up voting for Physical Combat Training Area instead of the Meditation Room - but we don't know actual manacost for Izumi's techniques.
>>
>>5096251
Well let's see what we have here.

> Crankfire Pistol
For Miranda. My small pet peeve is that she lacks a reliable non-magical ranged option without resorting to expensive Faemetal bolts or rocket launchers (the latter of which comes with its own set of limitations). This one is a great middle ground, and it's small and one-handed, so you can use your other hand for anything else.

>’Old Sea’ Clockwork Rifle
There's our 3D mobility for Izumi. Grappling hook guns aren't generally mass-produced because how tough it is to make reliable. But this one is handcrafted so the creator should know what he's doing.
This will also enable unconventional plays like hooking something while dragging it off using Extreme Tension. Most things will just fumble from my guess.
It also appears to have more room for customization, based on the description.
>>
File: Clockwork Carbines.jpg (132 KB, 1583x521)
132 KB
132 KB JPG
>>5096429
>non-magical ranged option
She can have one of Izumi's Clockwork Carbines, she has two of them. Also we've bought some regular bolts for her crossbow as well.
#107
The rest of the day is similar. Your shopping spree takes you to various stores as you restock on Moleworm Mines, get a simple long-range scope and bolts for the crossbow, restore your Mana Crystals, and look into getting weapons and items treated- after finding a different permanency treatment store.
>>
>>5096436
Oh, well the more the merrier I guess. The Crankfire for sturdier/slower targets (like the bears from Nura's debut mission).
>>
>>5096449
I still think we should see the 'standard' guns he has >>5096264 - they should be dirt cheap according to Handler >>5096367
We came here for a reliable mundane weapon, just like before MGR crossover - are we going to make the same mistake and buy some freaky overpriced gizmo that we're never going to use? The pistol pair is literally ten times more expensive than regular revolvers due to silver/gold plating on them, there's nothing else special about them.
>>
>>5096429
>>5096457
also the Levitation Crystals should provide greater 3D mobility, 4 Lotes is too much for very specific unconventional plays
>>
>>5096462
You'll be surprised at how effective it is if we ever get to use it.
What are our missing niches again? I can only think of conventional flamethrowers for torching things the old way and elemental nades, frost ones, if we're really looking for modern/mundane weapons.
>>
>>5096477
>You'll be surprised at how effective it is if we ever get to use it.
I doubt it. It's probably going to end up in the community pool after this mission. Was hoping to find something for close quarters since we already had carbines for medium range and other stuff for long range.
Both Miranda and Izumi have fire-spewing swords that could be used as flamethrowers, and our nerds promised to start working on specialized grenades soon. But if we really want those grenades now then we could buy them.
The mission has mentioned dangerous for, so I think Izumi should get a better respirator.
>>
File: unnamed.png (82 KB, 300x225)
82 KB
82 KB PNG
>>5096488
>close range
Like a Quad-Barrel Shotgun perhaps?
>>
File: Famars Rombo.jpg (632 KB, 1000x742)
632 KB
632 KB JPG
>>5096493
it'd probably be cheaper and more sensible than the weird cranked gun or clockwork harpoon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QTeyPe0UGY&ab_channel=ForgottenWeapons
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOotpWhTJMw&ab_channel=ChrisEger
>>
>>5096503
>>5096493
and by that I mean 'Yes'.
>>
>>5096503
It's decided then. We want the best automatic shotgun they have. Like the Russian Overkill's Schwarzer Zwerg.
https://youtu.be/COssAX7ycsc?t=289

Conventional quad-barrels suffers from slow fire speed (and the fact that no mortals can widstand the recoil of automatic shotguns). That is not the case with our ladies.
>>
File: ks 23.webm (1.34 MB, 640x360)
1.34 MB
1.34 MB WEBM
>>5096512
We still have to fit in the setting. BUT, I just remembered that some grenade launchers have special shotgun rounds (the example in the video is the opposite case - shotgun that could shoot grenades). I've mentioned shotgun revolvers before, but grenade launchers are also a thing - probably even more well known than the former.
...Have you played Ion Fury by any chance? https://youtu.be/BD3VURPE55w?t=22
>>
>>5096251
Not impressed with these selections Boss.
>>5096523
Honest feelings here, I don't care much about blending in. Izumi's potential as a sweeper is unexplored with her bullet enhancement so let's give her the best dakka money can buy, as an end of the year gift. We need some guns that only superhumans can use with the appropriate stopping power.
>>
File: 12 gauge buckshot.png (709 KB, 1284x1023)
709 KB
709 KB PNG
>>5096600
>>5096523
>>5096512
I mean, even if we don't want to blend in, I don't know what kind of system can autoload four shotgun barrels at the same time. There was a mythical 3-barrel revolver, but it used rather small bullets: https://newatlas.com/triple-barrel-revolver-surfaces/22523/. I think it might've been an inspiration for the 'Loverboy' revolver from the linked youtube vidio at 0:14 here >>5096523 (fan-made 3D model: https://www.artstation.com/artwork/w6PR9X).
...Actually, Victorian Era lasted until 1901 - by that time not only lever-, pump- and bolt-action guns and singe/double action revolvers existed, but first automatic weapons as well (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xzui69YPgBs&ab_channel=WEAPONSFROMGAMES). I think we're somewhat in the clear to use Izumi's self-loading pistols, they started showing up right at the end of Victorian Era (FN M1900 and Colt M1900).
And semi-auto shotguns should be in the clear as well. Doesn't sound as exciting as full-auto, but those are designed for specific powder loads to cycle properly, limiting them to 12/70 (2-3/4") and 12/79 (3") shells. Super-magnum 12/89 (3-1/2") shells could store almost twice as much pellets as the regular 12/70. For comparison:
#4 buckshot 3-1/2" (12/89) 54 pellets
#4 buckshot 3" (12/76) 41 pellets
#4 buckshot 2-3/4" (12/70) 21-28 (27) pellets
00 buckshot 3-1/2" (12/89) 15-18 pellets
00 buckshot 3" (12/76) 12-15 pellets
00 buckshot 2-3/4" (12/70) 8-9 pellets
0000 buckshot 3-1/2" (12/89) 14 pellets
0000 buckshot 3" (12/76) 10 pellets
0000 buckshot 2-3/4" (12/70) 8 pellets
Although to for big game hunting slugs are used instead of buckshot. Rifled barrels work best with them, an attachable rifled choke for smoothbore barrel could work as well (if not as effective). The downside of rifled barrels is that shooting pellets from them would spin those pellets and make the shot less concentrated: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnpjrRvFTLw&ab_channel=Iraqveteran8888. But damn, slugs can do some mean things:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NynJOLt4eTY&ab_channel=TAOFLEDERMAUS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrwDP4ht1RE&ab_channel=TAOFLEDERMAUS
>>
File: cartridge comparison.jpg (792 KB, 3074x1296)
792 KB
792 KB JPG
>>5100330
Wanted to add something about revolvers and lever-action guns but too tired right now, so I'll just dump some links. In general, to fit in steam-punk setting we could just do a paint-job on one of these things and we'd be good to go.
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/RSh-12 (antimateriel revolver with armor-piercing ammo, same caliber as this beast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jN-uybi9_jg&t=562s&ab_channel=LazarevTactical)
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/Magnum_Research_BFR (The Big Iron in 45-70 Gov't)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pfeifer_Zeliska_.600_Nitro_Express_revolver (Elephant Gun caliber https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmOpdZZ1F2U&t=32s&ab_channel=DjStib1)
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/Mateba_Autorevolver (has six-shot .454 casull version) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sI7TYYlxLiQ&ab_channel=PhoenixPhart (unloaded in one second)
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson_Model_500 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOzyqiT1FFA&ab_channel=JerryMiculek-ProShooter)
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson_Model_460 (same bullet and case diameter as .454 casull) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sx3AQFvwwRg&ab_channel=JerryMiculek-ProShooter
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/Winchester_Model_1887 (Comes in variety of ammuntion types, most notably 45-70 and 50-110 - big game and elephant gun round respectively; could be shortened, 'Mare's Leg'-style)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5dve7vAY9I&ab_channel=Iraqveteran8888
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yxxmyp7ynGI&ab_channel=CostaLudus
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFLXjfiklnQ&ab_channel=Leverguns50
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/MTs255 (comes in 12/70 and 12/76, smoothbore and rifled barrel versions) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixhP1FW6GUU&ab_channel=Tigerfield
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/Remington_Model_1100 (could pick something like this)
>>
Run begins in 90 minutes. That is, an hour and a half.
>>
Also, at this point, I'm kinda just feeling done with this whole 'what gun to pick' debate. Generally as long as it's not an assault rifle or anything futuristic it'll probably be fine, I'd like to think?
>>
>>5100455
To me it seems like a style question rather than gameplay most of the time. I think style is pretty important, but there are often enough people in here with better ideas than me. And if you just want to take it over for the sake of the game then go ahead.
>>
>>5100455
I think going with the mundane but not really route like what >>5096600 suggested selves fine. There are also the whole shelf of goods another anon just posted.
>>
>>5100473
Yeah, that's what I was leaning towards. Including the list posted here. >>5100348
>>
>>5100476
Is this a vote prompt?
>>
>>5100499
No, I'm just about finished writing the prompt- I'm just gonna give you a bucket of options that include it, though. General gun types.
>>
>>5096251
Hm…they’re all interesting, but nothing absolutely VITAL…really, this decision is proving harder than you expected. You’re not sure what’s really most NECESSARY in this particular case. While Miranda seems to look over some sort of tuba-like grenade launcher (have to warn her to not), you’re more curious about more normal weapons. Or at least, things that aren’t going to cause a ton of issue to purchase and replace.

It’s not long before you notice there’s a number of variety packs on sale for the more mundane stuff:

>Rifle Corps Pack: A 5 pack of classic, single shot rifles that have been assured to be easy to reload. 30 Motes.

>Gunslinger Pack: A 5 pack of six-shooters, clearly intended for frontier action and similar situations which require a rapid response. 20 Motes.

>Handcannon Pack: A set of large, single shot pistols meant for stopping power. 25 Motes

>Alternately, choose from >>5100348 list and you'll be given an estimate.

>Gah, none of these are what you’re looking for. You’ll rely on your own armaments after all.
>>
And I'm not mad at anyone but myself, but this is the last we're dealing with this- if there's no consensus, then I honestly, humbly apologize for wasting everyone's time, and I'll be sure to never bother with shopping for ordinary guns again to prevent this from happening any more, but we're moving on after this vote.
>>
>>5100525
>Two auto-revolvers in .454 casull for Izumi
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/Mateba_Autorevolver
>Revolver Shotgun with rifled barrel for Miranda, slugs and a speed-loader if he can find it
http://www.imfdb.org/wiki/MTs255
Wonder if we could get some Faemetal slugs one day https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIP6EQpeeFI&ab_channel=TAOFLEDERMAUS
>>
>>5100525
Sorry for the trouble, I didn't know normal stuffs are troublesome to you.
>>5100527
These are exotic enough that they can be considered fantasy. +1. Give the shotty to Izumi though, she lacks oomph.
>>
>>5100533
So two revolvers + shotty? Or are we skippin the revolvers?
>>
>>5100534
Guns akimbo is cool but not as practical. An automatic super-shotgun takes advantage of Izumi's bullet generation nicely and gives her good sweeping potential. I'd ditch the pistols.
>>
>>5100538
Mm, sure, we can go with that. She probably can make it smoothbore or rifled on a whim with Shape Weapon technique, allowing to use both buckshot or slugs effectively without trade-offs.
>>
>>5100538
Personally, I can go with giving Izumi a shotgun, and having Miranda go with a .454 revolver in one hand and the manastone one in the other. Or just switching between the two for whichever situation comes up. That alright?
>>
>>5100525
>>5100548
>>5100556
Why not have two shotguns as well as the revolvers? They are within our financial means.
I'm fine with whatever, still want a grappling hook though. Then again we can buy a more specialized one without all the gimmicks.
>>
I was about to start writing, but then two posts happened. I'll just give it an even hour, so, locking in 20 minutes or until clear consensus.
>>
>>5100525
>>5100560
Let's go with this then
>>
>>5100560
I'm down shrugs. Let's get this over with
>>
File: ruger_super_redhawk.jpg (251 KB, 1280x960)
251 KB
251 KB JPG
>>5100562
Sorry about throwing you off like that, I only just noticed that you updated, and wanted to get my two cents in.

>>5100560
I'm fine with this.

So, how was your Christmas, anons?
>>
>>5100572
It could have been better, but thanks for asking!
>>
>>5100572
Not an anon, but I went ice skating. Wasn't great, got a pinched nerve out of it, but it's something to do off my bucket list. Everything aside that was nice enough, though!
>>
So, last check- two essentially very high-caliber revolvers, and two very heavy-duty revolver shotguns?

If that's the case, writing. Next stop, Flashpoint HQ.
>>
>>5100589
Both types automatic but correct.
>>
File: file.png (47 KB, 240x171)
47 KB
47 KB PNG
I want that Tuba launcher too.
>>
File: tuba_gunner.jpg (70 KB, 525x640)
70 KB
70 KB JPG
>>5100602
How much of a discount can we get on it if we buy the matching armor?
>>
>>5100525
>>5100527
>>5100560
>>5100563
>>5100565
>>5100572
Eventually, what you settle on is fairly simple, if useful fare: two high caliber auto-revolvers, and two heavy duty revolver shotguns. They’re very much intended to be for the stopping power- you don’t suspect there’ll be hordes of beasts in this scenario, but if needed, you want something with a heck of a lot of punch- for yourself and Miranda.

The total comes out to 25 Motes, nothing to worry about. Miranda seems to have moved from that strange tuba-grenade launcher thing to a one handed variant, but after strong consideration, decided against it. After that, you’d decided that it was best to get a move on- you’re not going to get anywhere mulling about things here. Ideally, you’ll get more intel at their HQ before you’re sent on the job.

Miranda only grumbles slightly as you leave, fortunately.

—---------

The next morning, you find yourselves in Flashpoint HQ again- there’s a funky new car smell this time. You recall the large, dark furred minotauress in that business suit as well as you walk up to the center reception desk. “Howdy! What might be the nature of yer visit?”

“We’re Silver Eye Solutions, here on a subcontract assignment,” Miranda states.

There’s a few moments as the tauress searches the database, but she eventually smiles and nods. “Right you are! You’ll wanna head on up ta the second floor; yer expected in room 222.”

Right. You should get a move on, then…

The area is…well, honestly, it still has that strange calmness that you weren’t expecting from a company all about moving fast. You know there’s a track, but maybe they just understand a proper balance?

You’re at the room before you can think much more on it, and Miranda opens the door…to reveal what looks like a mechanic’s garage. There’s at least twenty vehicles in here, of all shapes and sizes- from mopeds to high performance cars. None of them are being worked on at the moment, however, all of them resting as there’s several employees milling about. Before you can start asking who to talk to, however, you’re greeted by…well, you honestly can’t make them out- they’re in a helmet, red and white racing suit, and goggles, and they look bald. “Howdy!” He greets you cheerfully. “Name’s Rip! You the trio on subcontract? Silver Eyes?”

“That’s us,” you affirm.

“Great! Follow me, I’m the Lead Runner here - or I guess Team Leader, formally. Y’know, for our little crew. Pleasure to meetcha! So, you got the basic deets, right?”

“We did,” Miranda notes.

“Awesome! So, we need to get you set up with one of ours. She’s a good egg, a bit overeager, but we think this is up her alley. Name’s Holly, but she likes to be called Zipper. Dunno why, I like Holly just fine. Anyway, any questions ‘fore the meet and greet? We like to move quick on jobs, so we’re just saying hi, getting you kitted up, and shipping out ASAP!”

>None.
>Actually…(what?)
>>
>>5100670
>Actually…
>"Is a return trip back to the client expected for this mission, and is there a bonus for getting back there under a certain amount of time?"
TransPortal Plates, don't fail us now.
>>
>>5100670
>>5100681
We'll have a meeting with the client too for another round of questions so if we're asking any on this side it should be about whatever businesses that are on this side (our teammate, procedures on payment, etc.)
Supporting though.
>>
>>5100670
>>5100681
>>
>>5100670
Let's dash, nothing else to do here.
>>
Writing. One more question.
>>
>>5100670
>>5100681
>>5100690
>>5100696
>>5100697
“I suppose just one or two,” you admit. "Is a return trip back to the client expected for this mission?”

He pauses. “Y’know, the assignment didn’t much say about that. I’m bettin’ naw. Leastways they’re supposed to say so.”

Hm. Well, that neatly cuts out the question about a bonus, though it wouldn’t have been much to worry about for you anyway. Miranda doesn’t seem to have anything to say about it, at least.

You’re both led to the far end of the garage, where you can hear at least one person working on something, a drill going off in stops and starts. “Holl- Zipper? You good? Got your ridin’ buddies here!” You find yourself in front of what can only be described as an ATV of sorts- ‘of sorts’ because it’s incredibly LARGE for an ATV, clearly the size of a family van. You’re not sure what kinda rider is expected on this thing, but you can’t really see anyone but a giant riding it like ATVs are meant to.

The drill sound stops, and a green helmet pops out from underneath- also wearing goggles. You suppose it’s just good safety. “Yeah yeah?” She wheels herself out from underneath the thing, showing herself also in a jumpsuit- but this one also a forest green. It’s then that she takes off the goggles- her eyes are pitch black, save for a bit on the outer edges. That, plus the canines her grin gives off are…intimidating, to say the least.

(cont.)
>>
>>5100770
And then she takes off her helmet, and her head explodes in green, almost like a prickly bur. “Heya~! Call me Zipper!”

Well, not literally, but HOW she was stuffing all that hair underneath that helmet is impressive. That had to be compression magic inlaid in those things. But, that’s a question for later as you look down at her slightly. “Hello there,” you greet after Miranda gives you a glance. “I’m Izumi Yayoi, and this is my partner, Miranda Styles.”

“Hey there,” Miranda offers, even extending a handshake. The girl meets it- and quite vigorously, either blind to or choosing to ignore the annoyance the rapid handshake put into her expression. “...right. We’re leaving right after this?”

“Well, we need ta make sure you’re fitted up for the job first!” Rip says with a laugh. “

“If it’s weapons, we’re pretty confident on that front,” Miranda insists.

Rip shakes his head. “Even so, lil’ Holly-”

“Zipper.”

“-lil Zipper needs ta gear up herself. Y’don’t haveta worry about it if’n ya don’t wanna, but we got decent gear, I’d say!

“I’ve got my own stuff, dontcha worry!” Zipper assures as she heads through a door on the back wall. “Won’t be but a minute or two!”

Indeed it’s not even that- she changes FAST. When she gets out, she’s dressed…much differently. Her racing suit’s been exchanged for what looks like a dark green brown trench coat, hanging down to her knees, a vest, and to your surprise, hot pants. You’re unsure how wise that is, even with the long boots. Around her waist is some sort of oversized padlock front and center serving as a belt buckle- without a belt. Goodness knows what THAT’S supposed to mean.

On her back is a small backpack, to boot. You don’t know what’s in it, obviously, but it’s got a lot of pockets, clearly. “Ready to go!”

In short order, you’re brought to what’s labeled as the ‘Dispersion Hall’ apparently; a massive hall, segmented into small divides have a number of circular raises on them; transporter plates, it seems. Outgoers are constantly going to and from them, from what you can see- appearing in small flashes of light, and disappearing in the same. The machine at work, you suppose.

You’re brought to an empty one, and the three of you, kitted out, dressed up, and mentally focused, stand tall.

“Move quick and move sure, ladies!” Rip says as he taps something on his FutureSight. “Good luck out there!”

And with a flash, you’re gone.

JOB STARTED
>>
Finally. Job proper starts tomorrow morning. And before anyone says anything about the 'kitted up' part kinda getting wandered past, I realized I genuinely didn't have anything in mind that Flashpoint would give out to you that don't already have an equivalent or better of. Their big thing is vehicles and similar stuff. Personal combat tools less so.

Anyway, see you all tomorrow! Be ready.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhGZkdODoDM
>>
>>5100789
>Be ready.
Already am.
>>
Writing shortly. I hate to admit this but I'm not feeling 100%. It's not too bad right now but if it gets worse I'll leave off.
>>
>>5100786
When the light clears, you find yourself in a…well, you’re honestly not entirely certain WHERE this is, for once. It looks like the inside of a dilapidated shack; there’s a primitive boiler in one corner, rusted and unusable, but the rest of the ‘house’ (and you use that term graciously) is wooden and stone, clearly aged and full of cobwebs. You’re in what could be charitably called a ‘bedroom’, you think, considering the torn up mattress in the corner to your left.

“Wow, what a dump,” Holly- or Zipper you suppose- opines. “This is a pretty trash setup. Where’s the client?” Her dress hasn’t changed much- her goggles are bigger on her face, and she’s got a bit more flash to her jacket and boots, but she seems to have chosen the right outfit to fit in without worry.

You, on the other hand, have to adjust your (non-corrective) glasses as you check yourself. A simple blue vest, bonnet hat, and grey skirt along with a satchel that is your Bag. Perfectly plain.

“I think that paper pinned to the wall might have a clue.” Miranda steps forwards, and you can’t help but raise an eyebrow at what SHE’S turned herself into, though. Something…elsewhere, no doubt about that. Her face…isn’t. Something covered by an alabaster-white mask with a star motif on it, without any indicator of eyeholes. You know she can still see though, obviously. Her dress is flowing, thin looking, and gives off an ethereal blue sheen that contrasts spectacularly with the gold accents. You can even see the subtle twinkling of stars on the inside of it, and the leggings she has are similarly celestial in pattern, with her shoes completing the star motif and allowing her flashes of red to break things up. “It seems too new.” Even her voice has a hollow ring to it that suggests inhumanity.

“...really went for the gusto, huh?” Zipper murmurs.

Miranda ignores her as she takes a closer look at the note. “Lesse here… ‘Terribly sorry. Can’t stay out long. No other safe spot around here. Need to defend laboratory. Head north. Look for three smokestacks after large bird statue. Probably gunfire. Come around the back. Stay safe.’” She pauses only briefly. “Crap. Let’s move.”

You don't waste time talking as you draw your sword, Zipper draws two pistols, and Miranda draws a blade, the three of you racing out into what seems to be a deserted plot of land on the edges of a town- and you can already hear the baying and roaring of beasts as you make your way under a hazy and ill-light evening.

>Roll 1d10, best of three.
>>
Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>5101452
>>
>>5101463
...huh. Alrighty then. Quite the start.

...guess I'll be writing. If anyone else wants to check in, would be nice.
>>
Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>5101452
Fast start then.
>>
File: HYAAAAA.jpg (50 KB, 600x500)
50 KB
50 KB JPG
>>5101463
>Miranda's face under her mask right now.
>>
Oh, shit, did we remember to bring Pecker with us in our bag?
>>
>>5101452
>>5101483
>>5101465
>>
>>5101483
He's sleeping. And by that I mean yes.
>>
>>5101452
>>
>>5101452
>>5101463
>>5101466
As you dart through the streets, you take careful note of the surroundings. The town is clearly on the bigger side, and yet…it seems almost abandoned. You suppose that’s only to be expected, but it’s never not eerie. Wagons and trams that should be filled with people, toys left forgotten on the sidewalk… the skeletons and dried blood in places such things shouldn’t be.

It all paints a grim and heartless picture, and that only drives you to move faster. You can see stores broken into, places of battle and of last stands. For a moment, you wonder just what was it that caused this.

And then you see the bird statue in the distance, and get your answer.

People, arguably undead…a mass of them, in tattered clothes, and hunched over. Bulbous and thick with some sort of purple pus and ichor that gives them a monstrous visage. Several of them turn around; their eyes are rich with fever, the bright purple glow in them unnatural, unwanted. Several have pitchforks. Some even with armor and a sword- soldiers fallen in the line of duty, now forced to this ignoble end.

Several of them lean back in fear- for a moment you’re wondering just what about you causes that- but you’re quick to remember Miranda, who leaps in immediately; a single swing of her flaming sword is enough to clear out a trio of them standing too close to each other. Two gunshots ring out as well, splattering two larger ones next to her immediately; the stone is quickly soaked with purple pus and blood.

Well, you suppose you need to get in on this as well.

You throw out a pair of magi-blasts to the nearest two, and pick up the pace as your sword sings. One, two, three, four- they’re all rid of their heads as you dash past them, a feather on the wind with a sharpened edge.

The bodies fall, and there will be many more to join them shortly.

(cont.)
>>
>>5101522
The fight is without trouble, fortunately, as you continue to make your way forwards; it only takes a jump to see the smokestacks in question, and you’re quick to point your fellows in the proper direction- it only makes it easier when you begin to hear gunfire, just as the note said. Rapid reports, uneven. Meaning multiple people. Two, at least.

As you turn onto the next street, you finally manage to see the laboratory…or rather, the factory, since that’s what it looks to be at first glance. A two story building, with three smokestacks high and still belching smoke; a concrete stronghold. Out of two of the higher window doors you can see two people doing their level best to rain down gunfire on the hordes at the door; what looks to be well over a dozen slavering ex-humans, and now, a multitude of strange, four legged beasts that look all too much like bloated, mutated wolves with a split upper lip and two tails. They’re all charging, attempting to climb the walls or break down the (thankfully) heavy iron doors that bar them access. Several bodies fall as you get closer, even, and judging by the multitude of fallen bodies that are already there, they’d been doing this for a bit now.

>Charge into the morass and thin the herd- there’s clearly no time to waste!
>Head in through the back as informed; they have this well in hand, it seems.
>Other
>>
>>5101526
>Charge into the morass and thin the herd- there’s clearly no time to waste!
>>
>>5101526
>Charge into the morass and thin the herd- there’s clearly no time to waste!
Just have Miranda glue a bunch of the zombies to the ground while she's standing on a barrier platform. That'll help.
>>
>>5101526
>Charge into the morass and thin the herd- there’s clearly no time to waste!
>>
>>5101526
>Charge into the morass and thin the herd- there’s clearly no time to waste!
>>
>>5101526
And here I thought we came overprepared for a simple delivery mission.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DA2E771-XU0&ab_channel=RunningWithScissors
>>
>>5101526
>>5101535
>>5101539
>>5101543
>>5101623
There’s no other option- plain though you may look, your personality cannot turn from this. Fortunately, it seems that your allies think similarly. Maybe not for the same reasons, but neither do they oppose you heading straight for the assailing group.

They don’t seem to notice you at all, which works for your purposes as you begin to slice away. You doubt many of them even realize what’s become of them as their heads and other body parts slough away due to your efforts. Zipper remains at distance, plugging away and adding to the cacophony of bullets. Miranda on the other hand, they seem to notice quite quickly, and almost seem to scatter immediately upon viewing her with burning sword in hand and blood on her mind.

It’s a simple task, fortunately, and one quickly ended as the remainder scatter and flee- none worth chasing at the moment, not when-

*ping* Something ricochets off of Miranda’s mask, causing Zipper to jump, and you have to look up in shock at the attempted assasination. Of the two shooters, it seems that the younger of them- a small boy in a flat cap and with a large scar around his cheek- was the one to fire the shot. Honestly, he doesn’t look a day over 10, and if you weren’t surprised and a touch offended at the attempt, you’d praise him for his marksmanship.

Miranda, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to even think that as she looks up at him. “Mind asking why you did that?” she growls out. Her hollow voice doesn’t help matters.

The older looking one, who looks well into his teens and has a scar across the nose, squints his eyes at the group, before something seems to pull him back. “Off, off with you! That’s our last an’ most expensive hope you’re likely shooting at!” Comes the voice. “Round the back!” Odd, he didn’t even come out to check…

Still, you proceed onwards anyway, going around to the back of the building- and it’s there that, though the chain-link fence, you can see a carriage- sort of. It seems almost like a self-propelled one, at least, judging by the various tubes and exhaust coming out of it. You’d hesitate to call it a car, personally, so ‘self-propelled carriage’ it is.

You easily hop the fence, and you’re just in time to see one of the factory doors open, and out steps an older man in full medieval labwear- a thick leather apron, rubber gloves and a full body suit, along with goggles, as well as a cap that barely hides his rough, greying hair.

“My kinda style,” Zipper quips.

(cont.)
>>
>>5101663
He doesn’t respond to that. In fact, the first thing he does is whip out what looks to be a modified pistol, aiming it squarely for- oh. Miranda.

“Right, so. Jus’ makin’ sure. You’re the contractors?” He grinds out. His voice is rough and hoarse, it seems- like he’s used to yelling more than just talking.

“Yup yup,” Zipper says easily, shrugging. “Including Ms. Creeptacular here.” Hey. “Probably gonna wanna put that away before you’re in breach of it and you screw all this up, though.”

There’s a pause…and he hmph’s, holstering the gun. “Hasn’t attacked me yet an’ that’s more than I can say for any of those other creatures. Fine. C’mon in, an’ don’t touch anything without my say so.” He turns away, and begins talking as you follow. “I ain’t gonna bore you with the particulars. Jus’ know that you need to take my formula to Avion City. Needs two parts, an’ I can’t make part of it here. They can.”

You can see that the factory floor has been repurposed greatly- a number of vials and tools and booths all seeming to have different things going on that you couldn’t begin to guess at. “City ain’t much better than the towns. Dead an’ gone and nothin’ but desperate stragglers and the Wracked.”

“Wracked?” Zipper asks.

“Those things you just scattered, ya dafty!” he grumbles. “S’what they’re called, round here. But that’s no concern. They’re dangerous at day. Moreso at night. Fog rolls in harder then.” He glares at Zipper. “Don’t be caught out after dark. In fact, you’re stayin’ the night here for morning. Not given’ ya the formula until then. So if ya got any questions, you best ask ‘em now.”

You’re sure both Zipper and Miranda might, but do YOU?

>Any questions?
>None; you’ll learn a bit more about this place in other fashion.
>>
>>5101666
> "Could you tell us a bit about this disease? Where does it come from, and how does it infect people?
> "Will we be making a return trip back here once we make the delivery?"
> "Do you have any patents we could test on? We have some of our own equipment that might help with a cure."
> Miranda: "How long has the kid's been handling a rifle? Was a pretty good shot."
>>
>>5101666
nice trips
>>5101685
supporting
>>
>>5101666
>>5101685
>ask about the time limit, what happens after one week
>"What are our current countermeasures against the fog?"
I bet the cure makes the beast and the fog takes away the mind. So there could be some intelligent monsters out there.
>>
>>5101666
>>5101685
Of course I forgot another question...

> "Do you have any samples of this Fog you mentioned? Is there any way to condense it into a liquid or container?"
>>
Writing!
>>
>>5101666
>ask about possible opposing factions
That question list is getting longer
>>
>>5101666
>>5101685
>>5101687
>>5101693
“Actually…” you speak up, and the man actually jumps slightly, as though just now noticing you. "Could you tell us a bit about this disease? Where does it come from, and how does it infect people?

He pauses for a moment, looking at you. Squinting, he huffs, turning away. “It’s bad. Takes a man in but a night. Dunno where it came from, just know that you breath it in fer too long and you’re a dead man walkin’. Or woman, don’t much matter. By th’ time you get the purple veins, already too late.”

“So there are no countermeasures?” you follow up.

“Don’t be IN the damn Fog!” he barks out. There’s alright fog, the usual grey stuff, an’ there’s the Fog. Th’ Fog is purple an’ it’s dense, shows up without warning, an' bad. The only ‘countermeasures’ is what I’ve managed to think up, elseways you wouldn’t be here! Leastways, far as I know. Now then…”

"How do we confirm delivery?” Zipper asks. “We coming back this way?”

“Nope,” is the response. “They’ll send a radio signal after seven days if you’ve got there safely or not, and I’ll get that.”

“Is there a reason for the week time limit?” you ask again. This time, you notice a scowl on his face.

“Why? Don’t think ya can make it?” He snorts. “Jus’ get there. That thing out back oughta be well enough to getcha to the city at least, unless you’re more talk than action.”

Hmph. You can see Miranda start towards him- but Zipper and yourself hold a hand out to prevent her. You’ll just have to get the formula there as requested.

You open your mouth to ask another question- but you’re interrupted by another voice. “Mr. Page! Mr. Page!” you turn around to see that kid that shot at Miranda, coming down a set of steps in the distance. She clearly recognizes him, as when he finally drops down, he immediately shuts up, backing up. Miranda doesn’t seem to say anything, though, simply turning back to the man, who’s looking at the boy with annoyed curiosity.

“Well? Speak up!” he barks.

“I-I…was just makin’ sure that alla th’ Wracked were gone…” he intimates, clearly scared of Miranda.

“Good. Keep on watch. An’ tell Rayleigh that if he falls asleep again on guard then he gets half meals for the next week.” With that, he turns away again. “You two- three, sorry- can look around. There’s a kitchen in the next couple rooms over thataway,” he notes, pointing past where the kid was. “Otherwise, beds upstairs. We got spares these days.”

There’s a few rooms to look around; seems like he’s in no mood to share what they are, though. Likely aren’t too secretive.

“I’m gonna take a looksee at that jalopy out back,” Zipper says easily. “Just for funsies!”

Miranda shrugs before looking your way. “I’m going to take a look around this place. You?”

> "I think I'll join you, actually."
> "I want to try and get a few more answers out of Mr. Page."
> "I'm curious about the vehicle we'll be traveling in, actually..."
> Other
>>
>>5101830
> "I want to try and get a few more answers out of Mr. Page."
Any chance we could switch over to Miranda's POV during the quest?
>>
>>5101830
>"I'm curious about the vehicle we'll be traveling in, actually..."
Time to learn more about our new partner. And the vehicle, in case if something happens to her and we'll have to drive it by ourselves.
>>
>>5101840
Yes.

And on this point, yeah I gotta tap out. Check Twitter or here for how I'm feeling tomorrow.
>>
File: Yahargul HunterA.png (1.15 MB, 1032x1600)
1.15 MB
1.15 MB PNG
>>5101853
Night, boss. Hope you're feeling better tomorrow.
>>
>He pauses for a moment, looking at you. Squinting, he huffs, turning away. “It’s bad. Takes a man in but a night. Dunno where it came from, just know that you breath it in fer too long and you’re a dead man walkin’. Or woman, don’t much matter. By th’ time you get the purple veins, already too late.”
Really should had bought another respirator or two.
>>
>>5101862
Our girls already have them, although Izumi's is not as fancy.
>>
>>5101872
Saw it. I wonder if Miranda's gauntlets work with diseases then.
>>
>>5101830
> "I want to try and get a few more answers out of Mr. Page."
Our driver shouldn't have any problems, let's get on with this.
>>
>>5101874
Maybe for the initial infection if we get heal it under 15 minutes, but I'm hoping the Mana Extractor would be able to pull out the disease when we use it on one of those non-zombies. Or perhaps a flux wave directed to wherever the bile is hiding in the body...
>>
>>5101882
I think that'd be possible only if the disease is only magical in nature.
>>
>>5101894
*purely magical
>>
File: file.png (2.07 MB, 1506x1152)
2.07 MB
2.07 MB PNG
Something extremely important.

We completely forgot to prep our meals! We just went into a disease-infested operating area without any decent munchies.
>>
I'm not feeling the best but if I can I'll run within the next hourish. Get you lot rolling properly.
>>
It didn't take. Writing now, though.
>>
>>5101830
>>5101840
>>5101875

You give it some thought, but you eventually decide that you still have business with your client. “I was hoping to try and get a few more answers out of Mr. Page."

Miranda just snorts, but nods. “Suit yourself, then. Good luck.” With that, she turns away and heads off in the direction of the stairs; you notice the kid from earlier dart away in clear fear. Poor boy. She’s really not that bad at all…

With that done, you follow Mr. Page into another room; from what you can see, it’s intended to be some sort of production bay, with basic conveyor belts and whatnot. You notice there’s a number of unfinished constructs here- some sorts of boxy machines that you can’t really tell, though you suppose they’re either cars of some fashion or washing machines. “Mr. Page?”

“Ge-!” he jumps, turning around in surprise, before scowling. “Land sakes, girl! Quiet as a mouse, you are. Didn’t even notice you.” That was kinda the intention, true, but… “What’re you after here? Your crazy thingamabob ask you to fetch her something?”

“What? No,” you say in surprise. “I was just hoping to ask a couple more questions…”

He raises an eyebrow. “Why? You’re not the one what’s gonna be doin’ the heavy lifting.” That’s…very incorrect. “I dunno what a scholar, or whatever you are, is doin’ here, but frankly, so long as you don’t cause any trouble to the porter and whatever the hells the other one is actin’ as guard, I’ve not much mind for anything unimportant.” With that, he fixes you with a stare. “So is it or ain’t it?”

> “...it’s not THAT important, I suppose.” You’d rather not get him mad at you. It’s not entirely your gig, after all.
> “I have to insist.” You’ll make him listen, like it or not. (What to ask?)
> Other
>>
Well? What did you want to ask him?
>>
>>5102860
>ask about notable factions that we should look out for
>ask for ways to contact after we leave
>"Is the disease purely magical in nature? If it is..."
>"Hyponethically, what happens if we discover an alternate cure?"
>>
>>5102860
This >>5102887
> "You're familiar enough with the term "hiding in plain sight", Mr. Page? Think of this as a form of camouflage, with my mystical friend acting as both distraction and bait."
> "Could you tell us a bit about this disease? Where does it come from, and how does it infect people?
> "Do you have any afflicted that you use for testing cures on and gathering samples? If you have one that you're willing to let me test some equipment on, I might be able to help narrow down the search for a cure."
> "Do you have any samples of this Fog you mentioned? Is there any way to condense it into a liquid or container?"
> "If you're going to remain here, and we're not making a return trip back to you, who will be giving us our payment?"
>>
>>5102860
this >>5102887, but drop the last question. he's paying to deliver *his* cure, not someone else's
>>5091611
>Not only is there a vicious fog that’s settled down near everywhere and causing some good, respectable people and beasts to devolve into slavering, feral idiots, but there’ve been peddlers of so-called ‘cures’ that have been making the problem worse! That makes my job harder- I HAVE a cure. Or at least, part of one.
>>
>>5102860
>>5102887
>>5102892
+
Don't have any questions myself
>>
File: 1533306838940.jpg (39 KB, 639x484)
39 KB
39 KB JPG
>>5102892
>just remembered we already asked the "tell us more about this disease" question
>>
Writing. Plainness is a bit of a bitch, though...
>>
>>5102922
Forgot your trip. And opt this out if it's redundant>>5102919
>>
>>5102922
Should have gone with something similar to what Miranda had in MafiaWorld. High Plainness, high Intimidation, enough to be ignored until we need to get down to brass tacks.
>>
Aah, I can feel Izumi's pain already. Sneaking around? It's not my fault everybody else walks like a t-rex with an elephant on its back.
>>
>>5102860
>>5102887
>>5102892
>>5102893
>>5102899
“I have to insist,” you continue on, ignoring his huff. “Is there any organized resistance we’ll have to avoid? Notable factions or the sort that we should look out for?”

“Doubt it,” he says bluntly. “If anything organized has come out of this hellscape and doesn’t want this fixed I’d be surprised.”

Ah. “Alright. In that case, how do we contact you after we leave?”

“You don’t,” he grunts. “I’m not here for casual conversation. You either make it there alive or you don’t. Not much my concern what happens in between. If it’s pay you’re worried about, the other end’ll have it.”

"Right…” you pause, considering, then resume just as he opens his mouth. “Is the disease purely magical in nature? If it is..."

“If it is we’re screwed; magic ain’t been heard of for ages,” he grumps, wandering over to a table with various liquids in vials and some other tools. “S’at all?”

"Well, I was just wondering, because hypothetically, what happens if we discover an alternate cure?"

“HA!” The laugh isn’t mirthful. “Then I’d crack you upside the head for one-upping me, missy. Now look here.” And he fixes you with an annoyed eye. “Iunno where or why you’re askin’ so many dang questions- and don’tchu tell me ‘because I asked’, I was talkin’ to the folks that looked like they could run up an’ down a set of stairs without wheezin’.” You have to school your face into neutrality after THAT one. “Whatever YOU do, I don’t care so long as you help get that shipment over. Get it?”

(cont.)
>>
>>5103008
Okay, this…is a touch more frustrating than expected. "I feel as though I need to correct something. You're familiar enough with the term "hiding in plain sight", Mr. Page?” He grunts, now giving you a side eye. “Think of this as a form of camouflage, with my mystical friend acting as both distraction and bait."

He pauses. A sniff as he clears his throat. “Why ya need camouflage when you’re jus’ talkin’ to folks? Camouflage is meant ta hide somethin’.”

Ah. “Well, I’m quite capable in a fight. Either way, I was wondering about possibly finding some way to experiment with this Fog for a cure, so-”

“So? You fightin’ other people? Wracked might go for the flashiest first but they’ll hit anyone.” He sniffs, turning and spitting phlegm into a nearby wastebucket. “Look here, lassie, I’m just wantin’ my formula delivered. This point, I’ll take- did take whoever. Even if’n they’re some manner of thing from the beyond, their handler and a girl what’s got secrets to keep an’ no one ta look at ‘er, apparently. So tells you what.” He grabs a vial of…something green, peering at it intently. “Keep yer nose clean. Let your pals do what I paid ‘em for. An’ you can ask all the experimental questions you like to the folks on the other end AFTER you’ve delivered it. Me? I ain’t one for sharin’ the shit I had to go through, if’n you don’t mind, miss. Now, mind leavin' me be? Go bother the kids if you're a mind for askin' questions.”

…Hm. Right, then.

>You'll do just that. Where are those kids?
>Gah. Might as well just see the amenities. There was a kitchen, correct?
>Maybe you'll go out and make sure nothing gets near this place for a bit. Work out some frustration.
>Other
>>
>>5103010
>Maybe you'll go out and make sure nothing gets near this place for a bit. Work out some frustration.
...yep. Maybe use our FutureSight on a few of them to see what the whole deal is.
>>
>>5103010
>Maybe you'll go out and make sure nothing gets near this place for a bit. Work out some frustration.
>Switch to Miranda
I'm curious on how people will react.
>>
File: starseer.jpg (69 KB, 1011x296)
69 KB
69 KB JPG
>>5103010
>>5103030
I'm curious how all these enchantments work as well
>>
>>5103030
Wait, so is this for Izumi going out, or did you believe this was for Miranda?
>>
>>5103069
I think it's the former.
>>
>>5103010
>>5103030
It's time
>>
Very tired. gonna sleep.

Miranda The Great Young One in the AM. Come up with a name for her or not iunno.
>>
>>5103115
>Starseer Veritas
Or just Vera
>>
File: file.png (359 KB, 843x440)
359 KB
359 KB PNG
>>5103152
>>5103115
No names, just a title for that Moon Presence feel.
>>
Hope our jalopy is up to the task https://youtu.be/pw2Tm9o6fiQ?t=817
>>
File: file.png (313 KB, 450x1000)
313 KB
313 KB PNG
>>5103115
How many "Be Not Afraid"s are we going to drop?

I'm picturing our tag-along looking like Lash from Advance War, but greener and with strange eyes.
>>
>>5103152
+1, even most spooky eldritch horrors in Bloodborne have names to distinguish themselves by.
>>
Writing shortly if anyone's here. I figure New Years has people doing stuff.
>>
>>5103631
HeUazLBs here. Just finished dinner with the family, and I need a distraction before they force me to wash dishes, despite having made the meal, the ungrateful turds.

How’s everyone else’s New Years Eve going?
>>
>>5103010
>>5103025
>>5103030
>>5103046
>>5103084
>You are now Miranda.

You have no idea how you got roped into this. Well, no, you do.

Izumi did Izumi things and you caved. Kinda volunteered, really. Not sure what brough- okay, no, that’s also a lie.

Really, might as well stop pretending you’re not trying to be a better friend, it’d just cause MORE trouble at this rate. You find yourself looking out the window at the open street below- just where the kids were before you came in. You can see Izumi power walk out of there; looks annoyed. Wonder if the old guy said something she didn’t like? Stress isn’t the best look on her, being honest.

Although considering the boy across from you that looks like he’s about to piss himself from fear and the teenager that looks like he wants to put a bullet in you next to him, you can’t say either of you exactly have a monopoly on stress. They haven’t said a word to you since you came up here. That doesn't mean you can't read, them, though. Both of them, to you, have strong, grey auras around them, emanating like smoke. You think that means fear, but you're not entirely certain.

Eventually, though, the silence is a bit too annoying for you. “...how long?” you ask. Your voice has a weird metallic warble to it, and though you can see just fine, you were a bit surprised that the image you present is eyeless. Talk about something from beyond.

Somewhat expectedly, the child jumps at the question, and the teen just squints harder, leaning back. “How long WHAT?” he asks, his voice still high with youth, but tempered with anger and suspicion.

You motion to the boy. “How long has he had that weapon? He has good aim.” Really, that was a crack straight to the temple. If you weren’t armored that’d stung like hell.

The boy flinches, and shivers, but stammers out a quiet: “Uhhh…s-six, uh, six months?” Huh. Not bad.

You just nod in recognition, and look out again. You haven’t seen any of that ‘purple fog’, but hopefully Izumi doesn’t go trying to test things on that front.

It’s then that the teenager speaks up, still frowning. “...you look kinda like the thing that ate my brother. You try ta eat us too an’ I’ll give ya more holes than used corkwood.” The way he’s leaning back suggests his bite’s worse than his bark, but something about him twigs at you, and the way his face is pinched…something flashes in the back of your mind, and you have an idea of what his little story is.

> (Intimidation) "That sounds like a threat. How prepared are you to follow through on that?"
> (Empathy) "...missing him is understandable. Especially considering his sacrifice. Do not blame yourself. Warring against these things takes more than muscle."
> “…good. Keep that attitude. It’s useful to survive.”
> “Oh? What’d this thing look like, then?” You’re curious.
> “You two aren’t related, then?” You’d wondered about that.
> Other
>>
>>5103718
>> (Empathy) "...missing him is understandable. Especially considering his sacrifice. Do not blame yourself. Warring against these things takes more than muscle.”
> “Why do you think I dress like this? Even a starving predator can realize which creatures are poisonous, or are more trouble then they’re worth trying to eat.”
>>
>>5103718
>"It wouldn't work."
> “Oh? What’d this thing look like, then?” You’re curious.
> (Empathy) "...missing him is understandable. Especially considering his sacrifice. Do not blame yourself. Warring against these things takes more than muscle.”
Blunt as always Miranda. Try to at least give it a more flowery oomph.
>>
>>5103718
>> (Empathy) "...missing him is understandable. Especially considering his sacrifice. Do not blame yourself. Warring against these things takes more than muscle."
>> “…good. Keep that attitude. It’s useful to survive.”
>> “Oh? What’d this thing look like, then?” You’re curious.
>>
>>5103718
>>5103769
>>
>>5103754
Actually, let me just change a couple of words on my write in and add in another choice…
> “Why do you think I appear like this? Even a starving beast can realize which creatures are poisonous, or are more trouble then they’re worth trying to eat.”
> “Oh? What’d this thing look like, then?” You’re curious.
>>
>>5103718
>>5103784
Missclicked, meant to support this>>5103780
>>
>>5103718
>>5103769
Going with this.
And Happy New Year Handler!
>>
Writing!
>>
>>5103718
>>5103769
>>5103780
>>5103799
>>5103800
You…it’s hard to describe. While you can’t say you feel direct SYMPATHY for the boy, you at least get an understanding of what he’s feeling. You suppose it’s that situation that lets you speak as you do. "...missing him is understandable. Especially considering his sacrifice.” He jumps, and he’s clearly about to ask how you know- but you’re not giving him the chance. “Do not blame yourself. Warring against these things takes more than muscle."

There’s a silence, as he looks away from you, and the boy is looking between you two concernedly. “...I know,” he grumbles. “...but it still hurts. I still don’t want that to happen to anyone ever again. I’ll get rid of anything that might.”

Well, he’s got a bold goal, but you suppose you can respect that, and you nod to show it. “…good. Keep that attitude. It’s useful to survive.”

A bit more silence, before something else piques your interest. “What did this thing look like, then?” You’re curious, and who knows- if anything like it shows up on the road, you’d rather know about it in advance.

His aura flares a rich blue…sadness? Yeah. You can kinda vaguely get it. He doesn’t want to talk about it. “Is it too much?”

A touch of red, now. “No!” Anger, then. “I just…” he sighs. “It had a lot of tentacles. Like you. And it didn’t have a face. Like you. It was really big and glittered, though. And it had…” he pauses, trying to collect himself. “...a lot of teeth. Where its head was kinda split. Into four. Wasn’t any way out…” He trails off, the red and blue fading into grey. Besides him, a lighter blue takes over the boy, who runs over to console him.

Might not get much more out of either of them.

>Might as well see what Zipper is doing. She’s been out there for a bit, now.
>You should go make sure Izumi isn’t causing much trouble. And you could use a walk yourself.
>Maybe you should try to console them? Somehow?
>...wonder what the kitchen’s got in store.
>Other
>>
>>5103924
>Maybe you should try to console them? Somehow?
Maybe talk about a monster from on of our old jobs. That weird demon-disease inside of the artificer in one of the crossover missions, maybe?
>Perhaps challenge the kids to a sharpshooting game? See if you can find any leftover Wracked they can snipe at, or maybe who can get the most headshots.
>>
>>5103924
>You should go make sure Izumi isn’t causing much trouble. And you could use a walk yourself.
Well, I don't see the point of befriending these kids. They'll be with the client defending this lab and we won't be seeing them much once we hit the road, if ever again.
>>
>>5103924
>You should go make sure Izumi isn’t causing much trouble. And you could use a walk yourself.
>>
>>5103924
>You should go make sure Izumi isn’t causing much trouble. And you could use a walk yourself.
>>
Taking care of those kids in the Intersection really has changed Miranda. Now she goes to find kids to talk to even while on a job.
>>
>>5103924
>>5103972
>>5103978
>>5104026
With a sigh, you leave them be. Like as not you’ll not see them again. In the meantime, you should go make sure Izumi isn’t causing much trouble. And you could use a walk yourself.

It’s not much to speak of, really- the town is…poor. There’s structures and everything, mind. Just everything is very run-down and bombed out looking. This normal, light fog doesn’t help visibility, though; especially with the light fading; you’d gotten here in the afternoon, and it seems like the sun sets quickly around these parts. You suppose it won’t be a long walk, then.

You’re pretty sure you’ve taken a wrong turn at some point- namely because there in the distance, just coming into view thanks to the fog, are a number of creatures, of the zomboid and probably-demonic variety milling about as you turn a corner. You notice a couple of new types here, as well- one of them being a shriveled, almost skeletal thing, shirtless, with bulging eyes, a hawkish nose, whisper-thin hair, and a small pair of extra arms on its abdomen. It’s almost literally perched upon a nearby merchant stall, watching carefully over the much more imposing newcomer in front of what looks like a house's steps: an immensely large, literally gut-busting fellow, stomach bloated, distended, and literally breaking his skin, full of purple pus and little hair.

With clear relish it’s chowing down on…what looks like a dog. WAS a dog, anyway. Unmutated, too. Part of you wonders where its owner ran off to. A number of more ‘normal’ humans turned Wracked are milling nearby, clearly trying to get at the meal- every time one gets too close, however, the brute swats them away. It doesn’t seem to bother some of the others, though.

However, the creature stops suddenly, looking into the air much like the dog it’s been consuming. Within a moment it turns to you, as does its little menagerie.

It’s here you notice something interesting. The ‘lessers’, the ones that still look vaguely human, and the mutant dogs? As soon as they make eye contact with you, they seem to shrink back, howling and screaming, but clearly barking in retreat. All save for the strange watcher Wracked, which seems...well, you think scared? You can tell its fear, but it's not running.

The big guy? Not so much. He roars with impunity, sounding his challenge without fear, and with great, thudding steps, runs- well, no, more like walks briskly- towards you.

>...might as well have a bit of fun. (How to execute this thing?)
>You'd love to mess around, but you really need to find Izumi. (Move on.)
>Other
>>
>>5104151
>...might as well have a bit of fun.
Tear its jaw off with an uppercut. See how well fatty can eat without it.
>>
>>5104169
Actually, I almost forgot. Launch a few shots of sticky mana at the watcher before it can scarper off. Not going to let any scouts get any info back to whoever is responsible.
>>
>>5104151
So what's the mana regen rate in this world?
>>
>>5104175
Honestly, feels fairly low. You'll have to gauge/test it yourself for anything more exact at the moment.
>>
>>5104151
>...might as well have a bit of fun.
>Catch the watcher with Mana Tether, fling it at the brute and Sunscorch them both
>>
>>5104151
>You'd love to mess around, but you really need to find Izumi. (Move on.)
Unless there's a clear reward here it's best to move on.
>>5104175
>“If it is we’re screwed; magic ain’t been heard of for ages,”
It's likely slight to near none.
>>
>>5104181
Then our girls would need to set up both of their Mana Condensers tonight
>>
>>5104151
>>5104184
actually, yeah, no reason to waste use mana now
>>5104185
going with this
>>
>>5104196
>>5104185
I dunno, I don't like the looks of the thin one. Couldn't we just shoot him with a bullet before we go?
>>
>>5104151
>>5104202
Sure, but no more than a volley. With how high-profile our guise is, it's just a matter of time before an alpha/sentient type shows up for a parley.
>>
Writing.
>>
>>5104151
>>5104185
>>5104196
At first, you think to test yourself out as well as its durability; several ideas for something fun and thorough come to mind. However, that’s when a phrase rings in your head: ‘If it is we’re screwed; magic ain’t been heard of for ages.’

That’s not a good indicator of a lot of ambient magic. Meaning you’re going to have to play frugal with it here. With that in mind, might be best to just move around him.

Naturally, it’s not at all an issue- his lumbering gait can’t hope to catch your movements, and you’re quick to avoid his clumsy swing. You quickly make space between you two, and you decide to press on- you strongly doubt he has the remaining intelligence to track you down- and even if he does, he’s clearly incapable of actually acting on it fast enough.

Although, that reedy one that’s giving you the stinkeye- with very BIG eyes to boot- he’s not one you’re curious about. Which is why you meet his bulging eyes with a magiblast straight through them. You’re a bit surprised when he get thrown back, smoking a bit, but still clearly alive. A couple more do it, and still you have more than enough space between you and the big eye to casually jump away as you continue looking for Izumi.

Hmm…where might she be? Really, you wager you’d probably be able to find her via the battle cries and whatnot.

>Roll 1d20, best of three.

(Ending tonight, Happy New Year all!)
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>5104318
Happy New Year! Thanks for running!
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>5104318
Happy New Year, Handler!

>>5104320
Way to welcome in 2022, anon!
>>
Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>5104318
A toast.
>>
>>5104318
Wait... I just realized something.

How could Miranda have recalled what Page told Izumi when she was off checking out the safehouse?
>>
>>5104387
I'm going to assume it's either leggings or coat's enchantments working as advertised>>5103046
>>
Hey, do we still have the ability to summon creatures we corrupted from the "My Agent in the Shadows" mission, or was it only for that job?

Come to think of it, what about that Cloak of Shadow? Could give it to Izumi to raise her intimidation a bit if we still have it.
>>
>>5105205
We've asked this question at the end of that mission - the pin and cloak work only in Shadow King's world, they lose their special properties outside of it.
>>
...I just realized. Our nerds have upgraded Murmur Stones a while ago - we're supposed to be able to see each other's location via FutureSight.
>>
File: Hooters.jpg (83 KB, 1569x294)
83 KB
83 KB JPG
>>5105361
This is from thread #76, and we got the news that the project has been finished in thread #95.
>>
>>5105352
So the powers only work there, got it... But we do have them, right? Kinda hoping we can cobble together an off brand Eileen the Crow cosplay for Izumi to offset the high humor.
>>
>>5105361
>>5105374
>>5104318
Take notes.
>>
>>5105361
I just had another thought myself...

We have that spymaster's mirror, right? We could just look through it to see Izumi's location.

Only problem is the blood price to use it. But it doesn't mention we can't use other people's blood, right? Or zombie blood, either.
>>
>>5105644
Why would we do that instead of using FutureSight as a radar to locate her murmur stone?
If you're looking for applications for our fancy mirror - we could use it to see from Pecker's or Gartoum's perspective for scouting or spying.
>>
>>5105666
Well, Lucifer, to see how it works, for one. Gotta do that eventually. And that it'd give us an excuse to fight a monster, which I was hoping we'd get to soon...
>>
>>5105405
So far only our client has anything bad to say about her outfit, don't mind the old p̶r̶o̶f̶i̶t̶e̶e̶r̶ miser.
>>5105687
We've seen how it works in the last mission - spied on the heroes' party leader, got intel, got busted by their handler fairy and kinda forced them to rush to the objective without a plan where they met their doom.
>>
Writing in about an hour!
>>
>>5105405
No I disagree. Have you thought about the advantage we can have when it comes to dealing with enemies and scouting? I don't get the thing people have against plainess, it helped Izumi with the shadow queen mission.
Plus I like how Zip here is the middle ground between Miranda and Izumi, it's funny.
>>
>>5104318
>>5104320
>>5104343
Just as you figured, it’s not much further at all before you find her- surrounded by Wracked of human origin, dog-beasts, something much more…skeletal, too. She doesn’t seem remotely worried, however; her sword next to her and patiently waiting for something. The first one to step forwards.

It’s one of the bigger ones- not as big as the one you just passed, but still chubby. Arms outstretched, gait stomping, mouth wide-

-which is removed, as well as his head, in mere moments.

The rest of them fall similarly, an impressively quick and thorough flashing of steel and splashing of blood as Izumi does her work where no prying eyes can see; a meek looking merchant with steel in her eyes is not an image that leaves the common person lightly. Or at least, you’re presuming that. You don’t think you ACTUALLY know.

By the time she’s done, she has quite the amount of purple on her blade; and very little on her person. “Feeling better yet?” you ask.

She doesn’t act surprised- you suspect she knew you’ve been there for a while now. “Yes. It was just a bit of consternation,” she says with a sigh. “I’ll be fine. This place is all too dead, however.”

“Yeah,” you admit. “Not sure why those guys are still here. Don’t think anyone else is.”

“I saw a couple,” she admits, to your surprise. “They stay locked in most days, from what I can tell. The creatures aren’t smart enough anymore to break down doors to look inside, it seems. Not unless they see someone in them or going in them.” Huh. Good to know. “I did my best to provide them a measure of peace tonight, though I wish I could do more.” She looks to the sky, as the evening begins to fade into proper darkness. “Shall we return?”

—------------

When you get back, Zipper is waiting on the both of you with a look on her face that suggests ill ideas. “So! This bucket here is supposed to be what we drive to the city,” she explains. “And it kinda sucks. Fuel capacity is junk and will need a refuel like, every 30 miles. Asked for a map, got a map. There’s at least two towns between us and Avion City, three if we go a bit off the track. We can fuel up there. This thing isn’t much in the way of defense, either, though the professor at least saw to adding some plating so it doesn’t blow over in a stiff breeze,” she complains. “Overall, we’re gonna have to be sure to not jostle it or the formula too much. We break either and we’re pretty screwed. Any questions?”

“...that was very sudden,” Izumi says primly. “We just got here.”

“Yeah, that’s how I do things,” she admits shamelessly. "Again. Questions?"

> "Question..." (What?)
> "No. Let's see what the kitchen has before we knock off for the night."
> Other
>>
>>5106733
>"What's stopping us from dumping the formula into a bottomless bag?"
>>
>>5106733
>”What’s it use for fuel? Could we carry it in a hyperspace bags without it causing a mess?”
>”How many zombies do you think it can withstand? How about a fat one twice the size of normal people and three times as wide?”
>”Any flat surfaces available to glue a sentry turret on top?”
>>
>>5106765
Gah, just remembered another question:
>”So, how fast do you think you can get this boat to go? Faster than those mutated dogs?
>>
>>5106733
Knowing the top speed of the thing would be good.
>>5106777

But I don't have any. Our major problem will be time constraints I think. And maybe outrunning the fog.
>>
>>5106733
>"What's stopping us from dumping the formula into a bottomless bag?"
>”Any flat surfaces available to glue a sentry turret on top?”
+>>5106777
She's a mechanic. I bet if we get her some scraps she can give the car some upgrades, unless it IS the formula.
>>
>>5106791
>Unless it IS the formula
That's a twist I haven't seen before.
I'm glad you're running over the holiday break by the way Handler, it gives me something to look forward to.
>>
>>5106733
>>5106751
>>5106765
>>5106791

“...soooo, what's stopping us from dumping the formula into a bottomless bag?" you opine. Seemed like the simplest solution to any fragility issues.

“Frankly? Nothin’, ‘cept for the fact that it’s in a barrel.” What. “Yup,” she continues, seeing the looks on your faces. “Asked about it while you two were out, said he had poured it all in a lined barrel ‘cause glass was too fragile and they needed a ton of it if it worked. Can still bust open, though, so we still need to be careful.”

Great. Lovely. Fantastic. You look over the vehicle yourself for a moment. It’s…well, it’s at least roofed. Rounded top, no real space for a turret like you were kinda hoping. Enclosed, at least, though the sides and roof seem welded on aftermarket style with little in the way of windows save for the front. The sides are essentially grills to look (and possibly shoot) out of. There’s also clear metal plating on the lower sides; slipshot in any situation with good firearms at best, but this world seems to not have such, so it might actually provide something in the way of defense. Or at least, it would if there wasn’t so many pipes and pieces on the outside. ”Fine. What’s this thing use for fuel? I want to make sure it doesn’t kill on us in the middle of nowhere.”

“It shouldn’t need more than regular water. From what I can tell, there’s a reaction agent in there, but from what the Doc told me, it’s mostly to give the thing some kick.”

You raise an eyebrow. “What kind of kick?”

“Honestly? Not shabby if what the kid told me is right. For a steamer this thing can hit about 50 kilometers an hour in a little under 10 seconds. Just under double that with the kicker. Not the worst get up and go for something like this, and kinda puts the distance into perspective considerin’ this is expected to take us about a week. Well, that and the mileage, which is what ACTUALLY sucks donk. Because sure it can move decently fast for an oldie, but good luck with refueling. We’re gonna have to drive below top speed and be careful to make the fuel last through our stops.”

Hm… ”How many zombies do you think it can withstand?”

She shakes her head. “From what I’ve seen? Not that many before this sucker tilts over. Probably ten or a dozen at a glance.”

“How about a fat one twice the size of normal people and three times as wide?” You continue.

“HA!” Something like that? Two or three sounds like it’d be enough to ruin our day,” she guesses.

"That's...rather unfortunate." Izumi opines. "No wonder they called us."

"Yeah, there's way worse out there than what we just saw, apparently," Zipper says idly. "I'm expecting SOMETHING to swoop out of the air on us at some point."

"Don't jinx it," you complain. Something howls in the distance- time to get inside. "Let's get some food and get to bed." Trip starts tomorrow, and you're not looking to make a late start of it.

>Day 1: Morning.

>Roll 1d100. Best of three.
>>
Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>5106959
>>
Rolled 39 (1d100)

>>5106959
>>
Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>5106959
>>
File: file.png (559 KB, 962x684)
559 KB
559 KB PNG
>>5106959
We kartin'.

Did he give us enough local cash to refuel?
>>
>>5107012
I doubt it, knowing how we usually go. Unless...

...I'm thinking there's a decent chance he doesn't trust us enough to not abscond with the cure, the "car", and the gas money, so he gave it to one of the kids. Meaning one of them is coming along as a guide.
>>
>>5107019
>>5107012
I mean, we have a Courier with us. We can trade stuff now, like all these trinkets from previous jobs. Just don't sell anything with potent magic or high-tech.
>>
>>5107021
Chances are that Zippo would ask for a cut, and a decent portion of our stuff is magic, which might raise questions. Probably should keep an eye and ear open for crazed hunters and/or trappers so we can loot the bodies and weapons, and see what’s considered valuable in this world.
>>
>>5107045
That would be a dick move, and we don't know anything about our new partner yet.
>>
>>5107055
She WOULD be selling it on our behalf as an independent middleman. That’s probably the worst case scenario though. Chances are she’ll be too busy with tending to the jalopy to bother.
>>
>>5107066
She's not 'independent middleman', this is a joint mission. We can haggle the price with the locals by ourselves, she only needs to authorize the deal. That cut you're talking about is nothing compared to the payout from completing the mission.
And why does everyone assume that this is a compete bloodborne ripoff setting?
>>
>>5106959
There's something else.
>have Miranda and Izumi set up both of their Mana Condensers
There's also Miranda's orb, dunno if we need it though.
>>
>>5106959
>>5107308
supporting, completely forgot about that.
>>
>>5106961
That'll do it.
>>
>>5107074
>And why does everyone assume that this is a compete bloodborne ripoff setting?
Because Bloodborne’s the closest point of comparison so far at the beginning of this mission. I’m expecting a few more to pop up while traveling in the car (Fury Road-esque steam car raiders, maybe?), and possibly a few on foot if we have to scavenge for fuel or parts (Dying Light zombie slaughtering combined with a few Monster Hunter mutant beasts, most likely).
>>
>>5106959
>>5107308
This one.
>>
>>5107556
I mean, the most popular stories set in this time period and in similar atmosphere were about vampires, lycanthropes, witches and other ghosties and ghoulies as their own thing, long before Bloodborne. And Lovecraftian horror is basically it's own separate subgenre.
Bloodborne is not the only game set in Victorian era with steam-punk gizmos as well:
-Sunless Skies/Sea https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeh0KXqOQPU&ab_channel=MandaloreGaming https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KazOQBDQhRg&ab_channel=MandaloreGaming
-Dishonored series had witches, plague and Weepers
-Arcanum has a massive bestiary of fantasy creatures https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXAPdwOza9U&ab_channel=SsethTzeentach
-The Order: 1886 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FK8dgzW0o8&ab_channel=PlayStation
But do we really have to talk about tropes and references al the time?
>>
>>5108305
>I mean, the most popular stories set in this time period and in similar atmosphere were about vampires, lycanthropes, witches and other ghosties and ghoulies as their own thing, long before Bloodborne.
Yeah, pretty much. Thing is, Bloodborne's basically an unapologetic stew of Frankenstein, Dracula, and the Lovecraft Mythos, enough that it's a decent enough shorthand nowadays for other settings that mix those particular tropes with Victorian stylings. So basically, it's not the progenitor, but the trendsetter, and thus the one setting that a lot of people are familiar with, including me.

>Bloodborne is not the only game set in Victorian era with steam-punk gizmos as well
That's true, but it's gameplay (and probably Dishonored, I dunno, the only Arkane Studio game I played was Prey 2017, and I fell off it hard after finding the survivors is a pretty close fit to what our usual missions are like, other than how we usually are taking orders from someone else.

>But do we really have to talk about tropes and references al the time?
It passes the time between updates, and /qst/ is a pretty slow board... even internet arguments can be better than just waiting, sometimes.
>>
Writing! Sorry, had to play catch up with work and it's been a bit stressful.
>>
>>5106959
>>5106961
>>5106966
>>5106969
“Alright, got everything?” Zipper asks as you finish loading everything into the vehicle. “Rations, ammo, the actual formula?”

You give a glance at the massive barrel in the back seat. “Pretty sure we got that last one,” you say flatly.

“Just makin’ sure,” she notes. “You’d be surprised how many people forget the thing they’re s’posed to be bringing in the first place.”

“We’ve got all the food we need,” Izumi says as she comes out of the building. “I made certain to fix more than a few sandwiches, and the kitchen had some MREs I got the good doctor to spare us.” Huh. That last bit almost sounded annoyed. “Aside from that, I fixed up some general boxes this morning, and if need be, we should be able to survive otherwise. I doubt it’d be a good idea to hunt in this environment.”

“No kiddin’!” Zipper laughs. “Alrighty, then, looks like we’re good to go!”

“Word o’ warnin’ to you lot,” Mr. Page says, walking out with his ever present scowl fixed. “Some folk by all rights took to this like it was the end of the world proper. Every man for hisself. You don’t get taken in by any weepy eyes now, hear? Like as not they’ll try ta kill ya just for the fact you got a ride.”

Good to know. You glance at Izumi, who merely nods in understanding as well. Zipper just grins.

“Alrighty, last call, allll aboard!” Cute.

(Cont)
>>
>>5110471

The time passes in seeming quiet for the first couple of hours. No issues getting out of town, and the road, although simple, is flattened well enough for it to be obvious that it’s a common road. Nothing like a proper highway. The fog, though much thinner now, is still present, and it lends the quiet a touch of worry to it, as well.

You can hear warbling of strange creatures, and every so often you’ll pass a stumbling Wracked human, or a grotesque beast along the side of the road. None of them seem to attack you so far, but you suspect that’ll change in due time. Not to mention…

“Geez. Everything’s been giving me the heebie-jeebies since we set out,” Zipper says as she drives. She’s doing as she said, keeping the car well below maximum speed to conserve fuel. “I swear we’ve had at least three times something nearly charged at us. You been seein’ ‘em? The big rhino lookin’ things?”

“Yup,” you admit. Indeed, they’re most reminiscent of rhinos… if said rhinos had six horns and four eyes and far too many teeth for its head. “I’m not sure what’s keeping them away.”

Traveling through some rather hilly area, however, that’s when you all spot something in the distance on one of said hills. Zipper squints. “Hol’ up…the hell is that? Looks like a...farmhouse?”

“More like a plantation house, but I’m more concerned about the blockade in front of it,” Izumi opines.

Sure enough, as the trees thin a bit, there’s a blockade wall made of pointy and dangerous scrap that stretches the entire road and a bit behind it, and clear (if ramshackle) guardhouses nearby. At first glance, the ‘guardhouses’ look empty, but you can see someone- or at least a body- in one of them. You REALLY don’t trust this thing to get through the blockade, and driving around it is a no go due to the trees that would do just as much.

The area is incredibly quiet at the moment.

>Stop the car. Might as well investigate and see.
>No time for this crap. Blow the barricade and be on your way.
>Other
>>
>>5110473
>Stop the car. Might as well investigate and see.
This is probably an ambush, but I've been dying for some fighting. Set the turret up for protection and bring out the rapier.
>>
>>5110473
>Stop the car. Might as well investigate and see.
>Set up the turret.
>Get Izumi to scout out with her sniper rifle.
>>
>>5110473
>Stop the car. Might as well investigate and see.
Both of our girls have sniper rifles, we can take a look from the distance. And if it's not possible with the fog - Izumi can use the Vanishing Sigil Plate and zip in, report and dash out.
Also what about our Mana Condensers?
>>
>>5110480
>>5110473
We set up our condensers off-screen, right?
>>
>>5110481
Yeah, more or less. You'll equip them if you leave the car.
>>
>>5110480
Are you suggesting the one shot anti-magic sniper rifle, or the golden crossbow? Because I think the crossbow might be a bit quieter, if larger.

Actually, did we ever get normal, non-faemetal ammo for the crossbow?
>>
>>5110491
We did, even got a scope attachment iirc.
>>
>>5110491
I was suggesting to use the anti-magic rifle's scope, just to look over the place from the distance without shooting. We also forgot to buy regular ammo for it.
>Actually, did we ever get normal, non-faemetal ammo for the crossbow?
We did, and we also bought a scope for it as well.
>>
>>5110495
Weird, I was under the impression that the coilgun gave the ammo it's anti-magical properties. Looking at the spreadsheet, doesn't look like there's anything about the scope on both being anything special, either.

Actually, we all forgot to both smell and listen for foes. We should probably get on that.
>>
>>5110501
desu I already forgot how the coilgun was supposed to work, only remember that the ammo was quite pricey. We never used that gun because we don't usually operate from such distances (unless we have to Nebula Buster something big).
>>
>>5110504
>>5110501
Found it. Thread #95
>Alice Arms ‘Wonderland’ Heavy Sniper-Rifle: Tried and tested in field conditions time and again, this heavy-duty sniper rifle uses coilgun technology and specially crafted, magic-absorbant bullets to generate enough punch to tear through most magic defenses impossibly quick.
>Magazine: 1 Round (10 Bullets)
>Cost: 9 Lotes

>After careful consideration...well, you don’t really have many options, obviously, so might as well get the strongest thing you can. You’re not great with sniper rifles, but it’ll have to do. You decide it’s probably good to get more bullets as well, just to be safe. They’re an extra 2 Lotes, but likely worth it.
>>
>>5110473
>Stop the car. Might as well investigate and see.
>Set up turret, scout with scope
Miranda can take point, she has more tools to sense stuffs at close range. And most will think twice before engaging cause' of the getup's stats, unlike Izumi's high plainess/low intimidation.
>>
>>5110572
Both of our girls have Power Sense and Hearing Boost.

...Actually, what can our new partner do at all? We still know jack about her skillset. Do we have to babysit her the entire mission?
>>
>>5110653
She's C-ranked and from Flashpoint, so there won't be anything spectacular combat-wise. From the looks of it, she can handle a gun or two and knows waaaay more about vehicles than our gals. An extra set of eyes at least.
>>
>>5110473
Supporting >>5110480

>>5110572
what makes you think they won't shoot Miranda on sight? Or try to kill all of us immediately? Just because they'll be affected by the intimidation and otherworldly doesn't mean that they won't try to attack us out of fear. It happened just earlier this mission. that's just begging for them to shoot the car and I'd rather not have stray bullets or whatever reaching the car, even if it's armored. I'd rather use the advantage of rank A plainess + invisibility plate to sneak and scout or lower the enemies' guards for less potential car damage. Plus Izumi is faster than Miranda and has better danger/power sense.
>>
File: Sidonia-No-Kishi.jpg (503 KB, 1680x1050)
503 KB
503 KB JPG
>>5110804
Maybe >>5110572 thought that Miranda would be the one using the invisibility plate? But we all know that she's awful at stealth.
>>
File: Becoming A Magical Girl.png (1.58 MB, 2546x1792)
1.58 MB
1.58 MB PNG
>>5111268
Although to be frank the majority of the players are awful at doing stuff stealthy as well.
>Bum-rushed a big loud mutant bug in a dungeon during Nura's milk run and ended up mentally scarring everyone except Miranda
>Ditched the effort to quietly shank the Drogan Fortress tiny garrison and sabotage the armories to make exfiltration easier and instead barreled through the remaining floors
>Forgot about the new night vision technique and went up close to an expedition camp instead of spying from a distance with FutureSight (it can record sound as well) and got conked out
>ThE bLeAcH iN tHe SpAgHetTi
>>
>>5111268
>>5110804
Personally I'd rather Miranda goes (less chance of sidequest shenanigans), but we could bring out Pecker instead to have him scout. He's even less conspicuous than Izumi.
>>
>>5111272
Anon, Pecker can't talk and report to us and he's also a slow fat shiny crystal pigeon. He can't scout and he's not inconspicuous at all. We just need to send Izumi while she's using the invisibility plate, it's that simple.
>>
>>5111275
Fine, Gartoum can do it. He's a shadow creature, he's good with stealth, he can protect himself and communicate what he sees to us, and Izumi can remain with the car to protect it with us.
>>
>>5111279
Anon, you can't be any more stealthy than going invisible, why are you making these suboptimal suggestions?
I know it's been too long since the last job and we're all starved for action and carnage but do we really have to look for trouble or avoid sidequests on our first day of this job? What if the sidequest actually involves a fun fight or challenge (if it is a sidequest after all and we'll vote to accept it instead of zooming through)?

I kinda regret changing my vote and not going ham on that brute and then rolling a 20 to miss Izumi's fight.
>>
>>5110473
Well if anyone else doesn't object, I'm voting to send in one of us with the invis plate with the others on overwatch. If it can't be recharged, I vote to send in Gartoum instead.
>>
>>5111283
>Anon, you can't be any more stealthy than going invisible
The plate still uses mana, remember? Meanwhile, Gartoum, provided he doesn't use any magic or shapeshifting, doesn't.
>>
>>5111285
Yeah, that's the way to do it! The plate works on user's mana and since even Jago could use it for a while then our girls can too.
>>
>>5111287
We have mana condensers and crystals for a reason. It shouldn't take much of it anyway since in the world where we got sigils from 'regular' humans were able to use them.
>>
>>5111318
Look, sending in a sentient shadow who can meld into shadows, can communicate mentally through his ring without being overheard by enemies, and who can squeeze through small spaces in a foggy, poorly lit plantation house just seems like a better choice to me, particularly when Gartoum can use those same shadows to teleport a bandit or survivor back to us, or just to Shadow Shark them to death. That's just how I'm seeing it: more options, less mana cost.
>>
>>5111338
Knew I missed something.
>more options, *potentially less mana cost.
>>
>>5110473
>>5111285
Changing to sending Gartoum then. I don't even remember when we last used the invis plate, but I think it has an upkeep no matter how small. I do know however that Gartoum doesn't take any mana. And what >>5111338 said.
>>
>>5110471
I want to add to my vote >>5110804 to use Gartoum.
I agree with the other anons, he has way better sneaking abilities than the three girls. The girls don't even have to get out of the car, so that's a plus.
>>
>>5111393
>>5111346
>>5111338
Alright, but don't forget that Gartoum is using his own mana for all his tricks and might run out of juice for the rest of the day.
I might add that a solid shadow construct would stick out when the fog disperses the light and blurs out the regular shadows, but that would be just as noticable as a human-shaped hole in the fog created by an invisible magical girl.
>>
Starting a new thread in a bit. Been out for most of the day.
>>
NEW THREAD
>>5113819
>>5113819
>>5113819



Delete Post: [File Only] Style:
[Disable Mobile View / Use Desktop Site]

[Enable Mobile View / Use Mobile Site]

All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective parties. Images uploaded are the responsibility of the Poster. Comments are owned by the Poster.