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>>34028344

HOLLOW SUN: 8.2%

http://pastebin.com/hhdb6X5t

RESEARCH:

[X] FALSEHOOD ARRAY
[X] RESEARCH: ASSAULT HARDSHELL
[X] DIRAC TRANSMITTER I
[X] MASS DRIVER
[X] SCRANDER PROPULSION SYSTEM

VOID ANCHORS:

ORIGINAL HIVE
THE TRIBUNAL
NARAKA
THE VAULT

HOLDING: 1

FLARE ORIOLE: 1

RED COMET GUIDE:

http://pastebin.com/LJAfQmXy

UPDATES:

- Armoury updated with entry for the ATHAME.
- Hollow Sun Guide corrected.

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>>34028356

STAGE: THE MANOR OF DUSK

Even now, the fires continue to burn. A twitching, ghostly radiance - The flickering flames of distant barrow-fires - illuminates the darkly carnivalesque streets of what was once Nara Dreamland; It is a very different place, now, a place through the mirror darkly - All twisting spires and winding roads, a profusion of liar-paths and fractured reflections.

"Where is the Red Joker?"

All paths lead to the Manor of Dusk.

If Iron Ogre was a thinking man, he'd be able to put words to what he can only dimly intuit; That the presence of so much death, so much horror, the flow of sheer unhinged panic, has somehow brought another face of the Red World to light - Like floodwaters draining from a valley, to reveal long-submerged ruins.

But he's only ever allowed himself to see the world in solid, concrete terms; Another battle, then another. Attack. Plunder. Onwards and ever-upwards, to victory.

He came to this place with five Players - The ones he could afford to lose. When the onyx doors of the looming Manor swung open, he forced them in one at a time; The first babbled insanely about a battle raging beneath a black moon - The second, of twin figures wandering across a beach of charred sand, in a place where acid waves lapped against the surf.

The head and torso of the third emerged, eventually - With his throat in Calcite Arrow's fist.

"Where is the Red Joker?"

The vast, empty square before the Manor of Dusk gleams with a profusion of mineral crystal - Shards slanting upwards at acute angles, like some secret crystal garden. Stone ambles across Iron Ogre's half-petrified form; Locked in place, steam vents from his joints, as his gaze locks with the blank mirror-shades of Calcite Arrow's visor. He's seen this Player before, in passing; The slashing leer of the Smiler crest riding high on one shoulder, a smile turned into a scream.

Another loose end.

(Continued)

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>>34028480

Calcite Arrow's hand flashes up, and cracks across Iron Ogre's horned helm. Static flickers across Ogre's sensors - Before Calcite draws back, the Joker's silver icon gripped in one fist.

"-That's for Bardiel," Calcite crackles, though the name means nothing to Iron Ogre. A Player's voice is filtered, drained of all emotion - But the barely-controlled rage that drives Calcite Arrow's every action, the urge to do violence - is something Ogre is intimately familiar with.

More than rage. Hatred.

Calcite hits him again, harder this time, a staticky hiss rasping from the mouthpiece of his helm. "And *that's* for the others, you son of a bitch." The bladed limbs of his curious longbow angles sharply, against the cables of Iron Ogre's neck - Myomer-fibre muscles bunching with the effort of *not* cutting.

"*Where's* the *Red-"

Iron Ogre shrugs. It is a tectonic motion, like a breaking wave - A wave that splinters the unnatural ossification that clings to his limbs, shattering and grinding against each other. His servoes growl, power cords tightening brutally-

And one great arm comes around like a battering ram, and backhands Calcite Arrow across the square.

"-And that's for starters." Iron Ogre rumbles, his fingers hooking hungrily into claws. His drillspikes accelerate to combat rotations, as he lumbers forward - He clenches his fist in a certain way, and secondary spikes extrude to bracket his fist as his eyes burn with endless smoke.

"You want the Red Joker? Best get in *line*."

(Continued)

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>>34028503

STAGE: THE DIADEM

In Hellebore's artificial paradise - In the memory of a perfect, endless summer morning - the air trembles. A low sound, on the very edge of perception, filters through the garden; a staticky blurt that fuzzes through your vision, on the heels of a sudden wave of disorientation.

Her brow furrows; a wisp of fragrant steam curling upwards from the tea service, Hellebore's lips pursing in thought. The brittle *clink* of cup against saucer lingers for the span of a brief moment...A soft sigh teased from her lips, her eyes distant, distracted.

The breeze picks up. Slim fingers trace the curve of her cheek, and brush stray strands of hair back from achingly blue eyes.

"...Time's up," she murmurs, almost to herself - Her limpid gaze meeting yours, holding it. A half-smile flits across Hellebore's lovely features, as she considers you; Even as the colour - Slowly but surely - begins to drain from the world, the rich green of the trees fading to brown.

Autumn.

"Joker..." Her voice is gentle, now, softly intimate - A mild curiosity to her words, as if speaking of nothing at all. Hellebore's hair - A darker shade of gold that Mio's - shimmers in the failing sunlight, her gown rustling in time to the slightest motion.

"...What will you do?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34028628
"What I must."
It's not a straight up lie and gets her off our back so we can try and think of another solution.

>>34028628
"Finish what my predecessor started. Kill the Red World."

"Anything you'd like me to tell Mio? She misses you."

>>34028628
"I think... I'll trust you. I'll make Mio queen. Not because she wants it, but because it's the right thing to do. God forgive me."

>>34028786
>"I think... I'll trust you. I'll make Mio queen. Not because she wants it, but because it's the right thing to do. God forgive me."
Pls no.

>>34028855
I'd rather one person go crazy than 200+ die or thousands die.

>>34028920
1. We haven't reached a consensus yet
2. Saying that it's the "right thing" is a lie. It's just the most efficient way.
3. The asking for forgiveness part is pure hypocrisy. It's also out of character for Joker

>>34028855
I'm for it.

>>34028985
There will never be a consensus.A plurality is the best that we'll ever get even once you take the samefagging into account. It IS the best way, since it's the most likely to get us what we want with the fewest downsides and the most upsides.

And yes, asking for forgiveness is entirely in character because we and Joker HATE what he's involved in.

>>34029067
I'm not.

>>34029067
>And yes, asking for forgiveness is entirely in character because we and Joker HATE what he's involved in.
Not that guy, but asking God for forgiveness is definitely not in Joker's character. He only ever apologizes to those he has wronged and has never regretted his choices. He acts because he has good intentions while making immoral choices. He doesn't consider himself to be a good person. Asking for forgiveness now is just strange.

>>34029096
That's fine. I'm in favor.

>>34028708
>"What I must."

Gets my vote.

>>34028708
This.

>>34029159
>never regretted his choices
I'm only posting this without a reaction image because I don't have one mocking enough. So many mistakes. So many regrets. So many failures.

>>34028708
Seems like the best option so far.

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>>34028708
>>34028725

Her lips curve in a smile. Such a strange smile; Compassionate and sad and gentle, blue eyes lowered in quiet understanding...

-But mirthless and cold and utterly without pity.

"Then go," Hellebore says, softly. "Do what you were made to do, Joker."

"-Make an end."

> "Anything you'd like me to tell Mio? She misses you."

Around you, the world goes to pieces. The garden, the table, the trees; They all dissolve, into swirling clouds of phage - Brilliant motes of light, glowing with a soft inner illumination. Hellebore half-turns, her form curving in a graceful arch - Her silhouette blurring at the edges, fading into the light; the glow that comes from everywhere and nowhere at once.

Her smile softens. There's a sorrow in her eyes, now - Something unguarded, vulnerable beyond belief. As the bright light engulfs her, you hear her voice, one final time - Over the growing haze of distortion, a sound that might be wings-

"Tell her-"

The light swells to fill your world.

"-I'm proud of her. And..."

"...I'll always love her. Always."

Oblivion.

Joker - Please take care of my daughter.

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

Dark. Not the absolute darkness of oblivion - The long, long fall - but the soothing absence of light.

Beneath your hands, against your cheek; Polished wood, worn smooth with the passage of years. The smell of old, fragrant paper - And a sweeter scent, like perfume, that lingers in the air.

You get your feet beneath you. Dark spots dance in your field of vision - The transition, this time, was a smooth one...But fatigue wraps you like a shroud, burning in your limbs, thundercloud dreams looming along the horizon of your mindscape. You're not sure where you are, or even when you are: A raw taste to your mouth, as you look down at your hands - And it seems strange, surreal, to actually see them...Not crimson gauntlets.

(Continued)

>>34029195
Those are the things the players regret. IC, Joker has never been shown to actually regret his own action.

>>34029222
Oh yes he has. Nara Dreamland. Natsumi. Bardiel. The original Zoauve, and Fuesil. And repeated like a chorus, Old Joker, Misericorde, and the final mercy.

Regret enough to drown the world.

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>>34029212

Where are you?

Before you; Reading tables, a row of them, the chairs neatly arrayed like silent sentinels. On either side - Shelves, laden with books: Well-thumbed, but kept spotless with care. It's quiet, here; A single door at each end of the...hall? Library?

-Yes. 'Library' is the best word.

...leading out to the corridor beyond. A series of pigeonholed shelves - Filled with crisp white cards, each one marked with neat, curving script - rests against the near wall, almost ghostly in the light.

[ ] Go through the door behind you.
[ ] Go through the door ahead.
[ ] Look around the place.
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

Evening OP. How was your week?

>>34029271
>[X] Look around the place.
>[X] Go through the door ahead.
Could we see if the Athame came over, like the Misericorde?

>>34028480
>>34028503

So calcite arrow survived.

>>34029271
>Look around the place.
>Go through the door ahead.

>>34029271
>[ x] Look around the place.

>>34029307
Not anymore.

>>34028344
Why would Iron Ogre send five Players to their deaths ? He's no coward. Why not go in himself ?

>>34029510

You can only enter the manor once. If he brought five guys with him, he could get the answer to five different questions.

>>34029408
Scratch that: every interlude the Hollow Sun status post updates with the location of the new VA and the holder is removed from the list. Looks like Ogre lost this battle.

>>34029540
Don't think so; I think he sends his newbies in to scout for him. The strong/worthy will survive and if they all die you know there's trouble.

>>34029540
Hm. Maybe a Stage guide would be useful too.

>>34029601
I've thought about it, but they don't repeat often enough for it to be useful, plus the characteristics are usually described at the start. Besides, I don't think Ogre knew about the questions, Vertigo Trisagion didn't know until we told him, Ogre hated him, and then Trisagion died.

Might be interesting to grill Steppenwulf on whatever his predecessor left him, though.

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>>34029300

(It's been a busy week. Fortunately, I've been able to keep up with things.)

>>34029300
>>34029319
>>34029380

> Could we see if the Athame came over, like the Misericorde?

You reach into the folds of your coat - The Misericode's crude hilt, wrapped in tape, never far from your questing fingers. But the Athame's spike is nowhere to be found...Not here, at least.

> Look around the place.

There's very little on the counter; A scatter of papers, some drawings done in a graceful hand - Flowers, a bird in flight, fish, all exquisitely rendered - and a leather-bound book marking down the time, in neat columns. The back room is locked; You turn the handle, and it doesn't give.

On the shelves: Mostly classical English literature, with weightier tomes on the lower shelves. Middlemarch, Portrait of a Lady, Vanity Fair, Cranford...Some with titles in their original French, indecipherable but graceful.

The boards creak, underfoot, as you pace over to the pigeonholes, selecting a card at random. Each one is marked with intricate patterns, curving and looping like ivy: You turn it over, and see -

> A Tale of Two Cities
> Charles Dickens
> Minami, 05-04

A record, then - Placeholders for the books that've been lent out.

> [X] Go through the door ahead.

The door ahead, thankfully, isn't locked. The handle turns; The hinges squeak, as you let yourself out. You find yourself in a long corridor, a winding staircase at either end - To your left is a series of doors, evenly-spaced, marked:

04-01. 04-02. 04-03...

-And onwards.

Ahead, the stairs groan. Someone's moving lightly, as if trying not to make any noise - A wan light bobbing, a vague shadow cast on the far wall as the tiny circle of illumination wavers.

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34029577
Ah great, and Arrow grabbed Ogre's Icon. That can't possibly bite us in the ass at all.

>>34029577

> Scratch that: every interlude the Hollow Sun status post updates with the location of the new VA and the holder is removed from the list. Looks like Ogre lost this battle.

(My apologies: To clarify, he failed to plant the Void Anchor successfully.)

>>34029681
>[x ] Free
Sneak up on the person and see what he/she is doing

>>34029681
Someone else up when they shouldn't be. We can hear then, so it's probably not Akira. Can we tell if they're coming up or down?

I say try standing still if they're approaching, or following at a distance if they're retreating. Don't follow them upstairs though, it'd be a real shame to make it through the Diadem and not get caught only to be caught in the real world.

>>34029699
I figured. And no way to tell if he lived or died until roll call. I shouldn't be so surprised, I never thought the Manor was a valid target.

>>34029681
Find somewhere to hide.

>>34029762
You mean "stand still behind cover" I'm sure.

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>>34029711
>>34029808

> Find somewhere to hide.

...That might be a little difficult, actually. You look around - There's hardly any cover, and the walls stolidly refuse to reveal any hidden alcoves or convenient crannies to duck inside.

There's the way you came, but - The distinctive squeal of the door's hinges would give you away. Still...There's a table, adorned with a tall vase and a series of faded brochures; hardly solid cover, but the best you can do. You kneel, drawing your coat a little closer...

-The boards underfoot creak. Not much, just a little.

> Stand still behind cover

You wait. The close darkness swaddles you, as your eyes adjust to the gloom; As if a grey radiance is seeping into the hallway, allowing you to make out shapes and silhouettes at last.

The stairs creak again, then stop as soft footfalls draw closer - The skittering light revealed to be the slender beam from a keychain flashlight, held loosely in a girl's hand. She's younger than you, soft green eyes sleepy; Slim fingers going to her lips, as she muffles a slight yawn - Pacing towards the library door, with exaggerated care...

She stops. The circle of light dances, settling a mere two meters away from you.

"...H, hello?" her voice is soft, half-worried, clearly wondering if she's seen something. Then, in a whisper - "Miya, is that you~?"

Another step closer. The boards creak again, louder this time - Your kneeling weight making the sound more pronounced, notably discordant.

[ ] Stay quiet.
[ ] "...Yes?"
[ ] "Uh. No...?"
[ ] Step out of cover.
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34030063
>[ x] Stay quiet.

>>34030063
>[X] Stay quiet.
So close to completing the stealth mission.

>>34030063
>Stay quiet.

Rolled 97 + 20

>>34030103
>>34030108
>>34030116

(One moment, rolling.)

>>34030156
Tell us that's our roll to hide and not her spot check.

Is this the first time the dice have rolled above 60?

>>34030156
>97
I suppose we don't need the Refractor Field after all.

>>34030171

(My sincerest apologies; It *is* her spot check. And, uh, I didn't think it'd be that high.)

You stay quiet. You wait, for what feels like an eternity, your pulse beginning to pound in your temples, holding yourself stock-still; Statue-still, ignoring the growing cramp in your legs, as her silhouette edges closer, black against grey...

You're so still, so stealthy, so absolutely quiet - Your breath burning in your lungs, as dust motes dance in the air - that she sighs, and moves as if to turn away...

-And it's a simple, stupid urge that undoes you.

Her dress rustles, faintly, the light dancing in a circle at her feet at she lets it fall to her side. "Really...They shouldn't put this *here*," she murmurs, reaching out to move the precariously-positioned vase-

The beam of light - Swaying slightly - brushes against your leg. You're not sure what gives you away, exactly - Some fluke, some stroke of absurdly bad luck - and in the utter silence that follows, you have just long enough to hope that she might pass by...

-A gasp.

The vase topples, and shatters magnificently against the ground; A sound like an entire cabinet of china forcefully toppled, porcelain shards spraying out in all directions, water pooling against the floorboards. The light pinions you, as you straighten instinctively-

"Oh-"

Those green eyes are very, very wide. She's trembling, fingers pressed to her lips - Surprise, then shock, blossoming across her features - That taut sound still echoing in the air.

"You're-"

She swallows, hard - Delicate features arrayed in utter disbelief.

"-You're a *man*-"

[ ] "-There's a perfectly reasonable explanation for all this."
[ ] "Miss, please calm down-"
[ ] "-Hang on a moment."
[ ] "Wait, where am I?"
[ ] "...Please don't scream."
[ ] Run like hell.
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34030191
"You sit so well that light avoids you."

Anyway, why didn't we check our cellphone after we transitioned? Would have told us the time, at the very least.

>>34030357
>"...Please don't scream."
>"-There's a perfectly reasonable explanation for all this."
Fucking autopilot

>>34030357
"I'm a champion."
If she knows what it means, she'll likely shut up due to fearing the Hyades. Which would allow us to give an explanation.
If she doesn't, she'll be stunned from confusion.

>>34030357
>[ ] Free
I...um...really wanted to see this library. But I never thought I'd find someone so beutiful here.

Try to look handsome but innocent.

>>34030420
>Fucking autopilot
How about:
"Don't you hate it when your autopilot does that?"

>>34030423
I'm pretty sure she'd just dismiss us as autistic.
Though, that might give us an excuse for being in a school library in the middle of the night.

>>34030457
But aren't all girls, aside from Mio, Simulation players in this area?
...Well, aside from the girls who are just visiting due to the event.

Then again...
"What the hell are you doing here?"

>>34030490
There's a chance we've just met Chiffon Doll or one of the other named Simulation players.

>>34030357
>And, uh, I didn't think it'd be that high
/tg/ dice ladies and gentlemen. Well, let's try something that actually worked for me.

"I used to be. And you're the first person to see me since I died. Do they still talk about the accidents?"

>>34030423
>>34030448
Ha ha, no.

>>34030443
...We've gotten Joker in enough trouble with those antics.

>>34030490
We'd probably then be forced to tell her which champion we are. Which would be a terrible idea.

>>34030526
>something that actually worked for me.
How in god's name did you convince someone you were a ghost?

>>34030522
Chiffon is Shino Funade, our guide to Seisin and Kazuya's current crush. She gave us her name in her first appearance.

>>34030578
Propensity towards grey clothing, speaking softly, being somewhere I wasn't supposed to be and a hell of a creepy ambiance. Mostly the last if I'm honest.

>>34030522
But we know Chiffon Doll's identity.

>>34030622
>Propensity towards grey clothing, speaking softly, being somewhere I wasn't supposed to be and a hell of a creepy ambiance. Mostly the last if I'm honest.
Social engineering at its finest.

I'm still in favor of the "fellow player" route.

>>34030622
Man, I really need to start re-reading the archive.

>>34030650
We can do that if she doesn't buy the ghost story; but with the Shroud coming down and this place being at the center of it, the circumstance bonus to bluff should be considerable.

We can ask her to deliver a message to our "little brother" to complete the deception and cover our tracks.

>>34030526
>>34030677
Well shit, I'm all for it. Been a while since we talked our way out of a situation.

>>34030701
We can't exactly blow our way out of the situation right now.

>>34030712
Well we could, but it'd likely end in us being arrested.

>>34030712
And telling her that Players have infiltrated the Diadem will completely RUIN any chances of our coming back.

>>34030723
...Depends on how attractive she finds us and how tired she is.

>>34030730
Does everyone know what the Diadem is and that this is its IRL equivalent?

>>34030420
>>34030443
>>34030526

> Try to look handsome but innocent.

You look at her, with a plea in your eyes - And you put every ounce of noble mute appeal into them that you know how, and that's considerable. You do your very, very best to look handsome, nay, *dashing* even-

> "-There's a perfectly reasonable explanation for all this."

Her eyes lower, behind long, long lashes - For one fleeting moment, you swear that she *smiled* at you, as she draws a deep breath...

> "...Please don't scream."

-And shakes her head, screaming.

You have to admit: For such a small girl, she has a incredible set of lungs.

"PERVERT! THERE'S A PERVERT ON THE LOOSE! SOMEONE HELP!!!"

The terrified, high-pitched wail makes your ears ring - The shriek echoing from the walls, like a siren. And she doesn't *stop*; Any longer, and your brain's going to start bleeding. But there's a twinkle in her eye, as she shrieks, even as her face screws up - The flush of exertion suffusing her, as her flashlight clatters to the ground at her feet.

...You can't help but get the feeling that she's *always* wanted to do this.

There's a commotion, downstairs. You hear a door slam, than another - And another. *More*. A confused babble of voices, as the girl takes a step back; Her slight shoulders lifting in a little shrug, as she sticks her tongue out at you.

"Nyaaaah ~ Oniichan's in trouble *now*~" she offers, in tones of distinct satisfaction - Flashing you a brief smirk, her gaze all innocence. Then, without pause, cupping her hands to her mouth-

"THE PERVERT'S HEREEEEEE~!!!"

-Shit.

It occurs to you, belatedly, that you might not actually be in the school. In fact, this place looks like - Yes, come to think of it, there's a distinct resemblance to...

...A dormitory.

[ ] Flee upstairs.
[ ] Flee downstairs.
[ ] RUN.
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34030771
>[ ] Flee upstairs.
Put a hand over the girl's mouth, grab her, flee. The direction is up to the othe votes

>>34030771
Wow what a cunt
>Flee downstairs.
We're just going to run into more people if we go upstairs.

>>34030798

> [ ] Flee upstairs.

Yeah, let's not add kidnapping to our list of crimes.

>>34030771
Go cold. "You know what happens to bad girls, right?" Reach out a hand for her face, enough so that her she realizes that she could have made the worst mistake of her life.

Then flick her nose. "SO not cute."

Book it upstairs, try and find Mio.

>>34030771
Do we know where Natsumi has her room? Or Mio?

But first we might try this:
"I will treat you to Charmant cake if you hide me."

>>34030771
Jump out the window.

>>34030806
>>34030869
We're on the 4th floor.

>>34030771

F

FLEE

RUN

FLY, YOU FOOLS

The girls are such bitches in this one.

>>34030874
Use the Carnifex.

>>34030828
Don't know much about girls I see. She's already planning to work finding Anon into a story that'll see almost every girl at Seisin buying her cake to hear the latest exaggeration.

>>34030744
>Does everyone know what the Diadem is and that this is its IRL equivalent?
Every Simulation Player, yeah.

>>34030881
This is the obligatory forced lighthearted episode before everything gets even worse than before. Read the line about "always wanting to do this". Just be glad OP's playing a critical dice bomb for humor.

>>34030892
That's even MORE likely to get Anon seriously hurt.

>>34030881
>The girls are such bitches in this one.
They are on autopilot whenever school gets boring. Imagine what this does to their education.
They probably found a way to smuggle anime into the Red and just love to follow the stereotypes.

...What if they made theatre plays with their player bodies?

>>34030892

I agree, we could use the extra speed and strength.

>>34030892
...Do you actually read what these items do? Vetoed.

>>34030892
>>34030905
Do you want us to end up crippled.

>>34030905
"Male pervert student pulls muscle after leaping twenty meters from girl's dorm to boy's dorm."

>>34030920
It was a joke, as everyone can see.
I do wonder if we'll ever use the Carnifex IRL, though.

>>34030828

I'll veto this, because I get the feeling she wants us to be caught and strung up.

>>34030936
She might be a selfifh, greedy girl with weak spots-possibly charmant cake...

But we don't have time to find out now.

>>34030971
Yeah, we need Mio and/or Natsumi.

Send a text to Natsumi.
"If you are hearing screams: Remember to kick my autopilot."

>>34030932
Pretty sure we did, when we got jumped by those Players after killing Ixion.

>>34030932
>It was a joke, as everyone can see.
Irony rarely translates well over the internet.

>>34030993
Natsumi's in the visitor dorms with everyone else who isn't a Seisin student.

>>34031004
Couldn't put it on before they kicked it away.

>>34031012
>Couldn't put it on before they kicked it away.
Yeah, the murdering was all skill.
...I wonder if physical training can counteract the Carnifex. After all, martial artists of certain schools learn subdue their instinctual aversion to utilization of their full muscle strength. And those don't hurt themselves.

>>34031058
Probably not; it's designed to disable the body's limiters. I don't think it matters if the limiters are passive or active.

>>34031058
>...I wonder if physical training can counteract the Carnifex
That would be nice. Not sure if we have time for that while there is a imminent risk of Apocalypse.

>>34031091
What I meant was that certain kinds of martial arts are identical to the Carnifexe's effect.

However, does the Carnifex have a bullet time effect IRL? I'd guess that it would burn through insane amounts of sugar, if it's really based on a biological process. We need a bottle of glucose pills with us at all times if we actually utilized it.

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>>34030828

(Natsumi's in the guest dormitory, as well as the rest of your classmates. You're not sure where Mio is, however.)

>>34030816

> "You know what happens to bad girls, right?"
> Then flick her nose. "SO not cute."

She flinches back, those mischiveous eyes going wide - Only to start, a yelp of surprise coaxed from her lips when you flick her nose. Her hands fly up to her face, her lips curving in a pout; the flush in her cheeks a shade pinker, now, a flash of delighted pique in her gaze.

And then, valiantly, you flee.

>>34030798
>>34030813
>>34030816

> Flee downstairs.

At the steps, you hesitate for the space of a second - Running up usually isn't a good idea, but you get the feeling that *downstairs* might be a bit too crowded at present. Instead, your coat flapping in your wake, you take the steps three at a time, bounding upstairs. The fifth floor looks promising - But no, the first doors are already opening, sleepy voices wondering aloud at the confusion-

One more floor, then. The sixth floor, and you're almost out of places to run. In a brief, frenzied instant, you note that there are *less* rooms here; The doors marked with faded VIP plaques, a service elevator next to the nearest door...

-You lunge for the button, but the electronic *beep* that follows isn't promising. There's a slot for a keycard, to the right of the lift - One that you *don't have*.

Downstairs. More footfalls, shouting voices - An odd mix of mock-fear and exhiliration, an excited chatter that filters up from below. You hammer the button one more time, for good measure; Reflecting, dimly, that this is how an animal feels right before it chews off it's own leg...

-As behind you, a door swings open.

(Continued)

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>>34031150

"...Is someone there?" the voice is familiar, somehow - Calm, dulcet, concerned. There's the low purr of a motorized wheelchair, the slight trundle of the wheels against the floor, as Shizuka peers out from her room, slim fingers curled against the edge of the door.

Her lips shape a soft "Oh-" as her gaze falls on you - Brief consternation flitting across her calm features, as the melange of confused sound draws closer.

Then:

"-You should probably come in."

There's a touch of amusement to her voice, now - You get the sense that she's trying *very* hard not to smile.

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34031150
>She flinches back, those mischiveous eyes going wide - Only to start, a yelp of surprise coaxed from her lips when you flick her nose. Her hands fly up to her face, her lips curving in a pout; the flush in her cheeks a shade pinker, now, a flash of delighted pique in her gaze.
Our swag works even during high school comedy shenanigans.

>>34031172
"I owe you a Charmant cake for this."

>>34031180

Remember, these girls don't get to see guys very often. Assuming they're not all lipstick lesbians, they'll be absolutely boy-crazy.

>>34031172
>"Oh kind benefactor, thank you for taking mercy on this unfortunate soul.

No, really, I appreciate it."

>>34031172
Sure, why not

>>34031172
"Any port in a storm. Thank you Madame President."

>>34031172
And now we will have a snark match.

>>34031201
She's in a wheelchair bro

>>34031247
"Autopilot?"
"Autopilot."

>>34031261
Ame wasn't.

>>34031264
Try to avoid giving the game away for free.

>>34031261
Like that's going to stop us.

>>34031261
She's also wearing only the top of her uniform.

>>34031323
Well, that's hardly fair.

>>34031330
When has this quest ever been fair in anything other than horrifying consequences?

>>34031323
In the picture she's also standing up. Assume she's in a modest nightgown, the pictures are approximations, not gospel.

>>34031351
When we tear through level 1 players like Michael Jackson at a Chuck E Cheese's.

>>34031366
Let a man dream, Wata.

>>34031366
Maybe she has a motorized wheeled invisible exoskeletton.

>>34031386
Can you explain this for Unclappers?

>>34031386
So is RJ now officially a Smooth Criminal?

>>34031420
He was always as suave as Tony Stark and as witty as Spiderman.
And he tends to steal invaluable objects. Like the entire Hollow Sun.

But Akira is smoother.

>>34031389
I never said anything about what may or may not have been under said nightgown.

>>34031406
Low level arcade with animatronic puppets and bad pizza. Popular with kids in the 90s thanks to slick advertising. Add Michael Jackson.

>>34031435
Joker is a thief of hearts.

>>34031465
>I never said anything about what may or may not have been under said nightgown.
/d/'s illness has infected my mind in a subtle way.

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>>34031480

LATER:

A gentle knock at the door - Brief, almost hesitant.

"-What's the matter?" Shizuka's voice is soft, cultured - Gentle consternation on her features, as she rubs lightly at her eyes. "...I heard a commotion..."

"Ah - Excuse us, Madame President." The girl's words are faintly embarrassed - "...Ame-chan saw...Well, I mean - There might be a pervert in the building. Did you - see anyone?"

"A pervert?" Concern shades Shizuka's words, her brow furrowing - "No - I haven't see anyone..." Her voice trails off. "-Did he do anything?"

"No, not that we know of - She didn't get a good look at his face..."

"Then, you might want to keep it down; Most of the girls are asleep." A wordless murmur of affirmation comes, in answer. "For now - Tell everyone to lock their doors. Keep looking...But quietly, please."

More nods.

"Good night, then." Shizuka's voice is gently but firmly dismissive; The chorus of - "Sorry for disturbing you~" shut off by the closing door - And the click of the bolt being drawn.

"Where did he go...?

"Let's try downstairs..."

The footsteps recede, as their voices fade into the distance.

Shizuka exhales, softly - Her fingertips drumming lightly against her knee. Her white shirt only accentuates her long, smooth legs; A blanket draped modestly across them, her wheelchair purring as it turns.

"-You can come out now," she says, and you unfurl from your prone position, behind the bed.

(Continued)

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>>34031465
>I never said anything about what may or may not have been under said nightgown.
But there is no point if it's not a shirt instead of a nightgown in the first place.
>>34031480
Goddamn.

>>34031219
>>34031208

> "Any port in a storm. Thank you Madame President."

Shizuka allows herself a slight smile - A soft sound, not quite a giggle, teased from her lips.

>>34031196

> "I owe you a Charmant cake for this."

"-Thank you, but that's not necessary," she says, in that same light tone of voice; The air of mild amusement lingering, her soft brown tresses rustling lightly against her long shirt. She adjusts the covering blanket, nimble fingers smoothing it down with well-practiced ease - Regarding you quietly, for the span of a few seconds; A considering, weighing light in her warm brown eyes.

At last, she sighs.

"Mio's room is on the second floor, you know," Shizuka says, her expression knowing - Faintly disapproving. "-I thought you'd have the sense to be more discreet..."

Her gaze meets you.

"'-Anon-kun.'"

[ ] "...What?"
[ ] "-I wasn't looking for her, actually."
[ ] "We...don't have that kind of relationship."
[ ] "You remembered my name. I'm surprised."
[ ] "-Sorry. It's all a misunderstanding."
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34031480
Ha

>>34031531
>"...What?"
>"-I wasn't looking for her, actually."

>>34031531
>[X] "You remembered my name. I'm surprised."
"Would you believe me if I said that wasn't why I was here?"

>>34031531
Pfffahahaha

>[X] "...What?"
>[X] "-Sorry. It's all a misunderstanding."
>[X] "I kind of ended up here on autopilot. Must have gotten lost in my thoughts again."

>>34031531
"I actually didn't want to be here. If you can believe that."

>>34031531
"Would you believe me if I said I honestly got totally lost?"

>>34031531
>[]"Am I right to assume that you won't believe even I tell you that I'm not here for that reason?"
>[ ] "You remembered my name. I'm surprised."

>>34031531
"...Do you *honestly* think so little of me? Or that I think so little of Mio?"

>>34031598
To be fair, she has every right to.

>>34031616
Eh, true enough. But still.

>>34031531
>[ x] "You remembered my name. I'm surprised."
>[x ] "The girl who caused this consternation might have a mean streak. You should keep an eye on her."

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> [X] "You remembered my name. I'm surprised."

"Well-" There's the faintest hesitation to Shizuka's words now, as she turns her head to the side. "...You *are* Naoya-kun's friend, after all. And besides-" the dulcet tones of amusement return, "-Mio has your photo on her phone."

She actually laughs, a low, sweet sound - "You look *very* peaceful when you're asleep, Anon-kun."

The moment of levity passes; Just long enough for you to consider that revelation, her hands folded demurely on her lap. Then, in a more serious tone - "...You're not actually in the clear yet, 'Anon-kun'. In fact; You were guilty the moment you entered the girl's dormitory..."

Shizuka touches a finger to her chin; "...I'm still wondering how you managed that. But - I'm giving you a chance to explain yourself, before I make a decision."

> "...What?"

The blank surprise in your voice makes her arch a slim eyebrow.

> "Would you believe me if I said I honestly got totally lost?"
> [X] "I kind of ended up here on autopilot. Must have gotten lost in my thoughts again."

"'Lost'-?" there's a dubious note to Shizuka's voice, now - Her brow furrowing. "So - You somehow wandered up to the school...*Then* to our dormitory - Past the doors...*And* stayed until long past midnight." She pauses, just long enough for the words to sink in - "...That's - *very* hard to believe, 'Anon-kun'."

> "-I wasn't looking for her, actually."

"Then...How *did* you get in?"

> "...Do you *honestly* think so little of me? Or that I think so little of Mio?"

A sigh. Shizuka's gaze goes to the dresser - Photographs, in decorative frames, neatly arrayed like toy soldiers. Absently, she lifts one from the stand; A freeze-frame image of herself, bundled up in winter clothing - Waving to the camera, as she leans against the railing.

(Continued)

>>34031819
Please be honest with Shizuka, at least about wanting to see the Diadem. If we lie, she'll know it.

>>34031819
Really have to wonder how our autopilot managed to sneak in.

>>34031819

"-I'm sure you have your reasons," she says - For a moment, as her gaze lingers on the photograph, it feels like her words aren't addressed to you. "...Everyone does. In our own mind, we're always right..."

Her voice trails off, as she glances over her shoulder.

"I think," she says carefully, "...that people can be *very* irresponsible - Especially a young woman who is very, very much in love." Shizuka doesn't quite colour, her words slow, measured - Almost thoughtful, weighing the frame in her hands for a moment longer, before she sets it down.

"Still-" More slowly, now. "...I'm glad that you're not taking advantage of her." A smile, one that doesn't touch her eyes - The amusement in her words modestly feigned. "-Don't you think that'd be the *worst*?"

Shizuka's fingers weave together, resting on her lap.

"At any rate...I don't think you're lying. Not really."

"...But-" And a considering note shades her voice "-You must admit, this *is* very unusual."

She purses her lips - Her gaze going to another photo; Herself again, younger this time, kneeling next to a friendly-looking Welsh Corgi. The photo is tattered at the edges - The dog's tongue lolling out, stubby legs folded beneath it as it sprawls on the carpet.

> [X] "The girl who caused this consternation might have a mean streak. You should keep an eye on her."

"Ame-chan? Yes, she can be a little excitable - But we all have our flaws." Shizuka's voice is a firm dismissial, turning her attention back to the topic at hand.

"So...If you weren't here to see Mio - What *were* you doing here?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34031856
You assume she knows.

Or that she would let us out of here alive if she did.

>>34031883
>What *were* you doing here?
"In the dormitory?
Nothing.

However, I was very curious about a more elevated place."

>>34031883
"I was dumped in this place by Hellebore"

>This is my suggestion. She's sharp enough to find out that we are a player. Disagree if you want.

>>34031819
>"'Lost'-?" there's a dubious note to Shizuka's voice, now - Her brow furrowing. "So - You somehow wandered up to the school...*Then* to our dormitory - Past the doors...*And* stayed until long past midnight." She pauses, just long enough for the words to sink in - "...That's - *very* hard to believe, 'Anon-kun'."
Man, our autopilot got mad skillz.

>>34031879
Chance.

>>34031883
"Chasing ghosts. The city is haunted, after all, and this school has so very many."

Just a random thought, but: "Does the word 'Pythia' mean anything to you?"

>>34031905
Not for free she doesn't get that.

>>34031918
Vetoed absolutely.

>>34031918
Please no.
>>34031883
Well, we were in the library. So clearly we were looking for something to read.

>>34031883
"Hiding in the library, I guess. I wanted to check out the records on an old acquaintance that used to go to this school."

>>34031943

Yeah, but this is the girl's dormitory. We aren't even supposed to be here in the first place.

>>34031918
Stop it, Near.

>>34031883
"I sometimes have this Russian streak.
You know how in Russia you can enter any territory legally as long as you aren't physically impeded?
Last time I just sold stuff to a few friends. This time I decided to go exploring."

>>34031965
That's completely nonsensical. The only part at all workable is the very last sentence.

(Gentlemen: Is there any consensus on how you'd like to respond? I normally wouldn't ask this, but most of the write-ins seem mutually exclusive.)

>>34031989
Wata's is the only one that doesn't have someone vetoing it or something like it.

>>34031989
Feeding her some vague bullshit like >>34031939 or >>34031948 seems like a good idea.

>>34031989
I'll withdraw my suggestion and go with Wata's.
Let's see if my hunch was wrong.

>>34032070

> "Chasing ghosts. The city is haunted, after all, and this school has so very many."

Shizuka gives you a quizzical look - As if uncertain whether you're joking. She decides to humour you, apparently:

"-It has a long history," she says; "...Even after the disaster - This was one of the only places to remain untouched. They called it a miracle, but..."

Her voice trails off.

> Just a random thought, but: "Does the word 'Pythia' mean anything to you?"

Shizuka's lips shape the word, mouthing it to herself - But then, very slowly, she shakes her head. "...Not that I know of," she says, at last; glancing at you sidelong. "-You're a strange person, Anon-kun."

> "Hiding in the library, I guess. I wanted to check out the records on an old acquaintance that used to go to this school."

"Really-?" Surprisingly, you detect a note of sudden interest in her voice - Her posture stiffening slightly, the full weight of Shizuka's attention returning. That's news to her; There's a sense of a momentary tension, as Shizuka's level gaze - very carefully - settles on you.

"...What's her name?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34032125
"Kotone Mikogami."

>>34032152
This

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>>34032152
This should be interesting.

>>34032152
Yes.

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>>34032152
>>34032184

> "Kotone Mikogami."

Her eyes narrow, ever-so-slightly; A soft sigh teased from her lips.

"...Two in the same week - What *are* the odds?" Shizuka murmurs, almost to herself; an odd new light to her eyes, as she draws herself up to her full height.

A slight shake of her head - Her voice becoming strident, clear, as if she's done this before; going over words she's already rehearsed.

"-If you were looking for the old chapel on the grounds...You should've asked me from the start. Didn't Naoya-kun already tell yo-" She pauses, catching herself. "...Never mind."

Shizuka touches her fingers to her temples, as if nursing a migraine.

"Yes, she was here. Mikogami-san commissioned a chapel in her name - It's behind the Maiden's Labyrinth, at the very edge of the school. You know..."

A slight catch to her voice.

"-Before."

A slow breath.

"...If it's like that, then I'll let things slide this time - As long as..." A hesitation. "-Well, as long as you can tell me one thing..."

Then; Quietly, until you have to strain to listen-

"W, when...When did you meet her?" Absently, Shizuka's hand comes up to cradle her cheek. "You know - The saint." There's a hushed, uncomfortable note to her voice, now - Something that might almost be awe. "...You don't have to tell me if you don't *want* to, but..."

"-What was she like?"

Her gaze descends, a hand stroking the blanket over her legs - A note of hope in Shizuka's voice, tentative.

"Could she..."

"-could she have healed me, too?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34032317
Now we know where the black path in the labyrinth leads.

Does anyone have an idea how to answer this? I don't think she'd accept the truth.

>>34032317
"...Yes. But not for free. You have to make a trade: your heart for your heart's desire, and that's a deal that can't ever make you happy."

>>34032317
"What I saw was a haunted child. One that bears a burden that no one should. Miracles weren't impossible for her, but the price wasn't worth it."
"I wonder if she could've lived a normal life without those miracles."

>>34032317
While we're at it, might as well answer the rest and ask a question.

"She was pretty, and kind. A lot like Mio; they'd have been sisters in a better world. When I met her she was afraid of what was happening through her, scared of hurting people. She said she hoped we'd never meet again, but she saved my life later anyway."

"May I ask who the other person asking about her was?"

>>34032317
>>34032481
Wait, Naoya was related to the Kotone stuff in some way?

>>34032507
He's from the orphanage originally. The same place Kotone was buried. The connection was always there, just not directly relevant.

>>34032525
Wonder if he'll call her Onee-chan if he sees her.

>>34032440

> "I wonder if she could've lived a normal life without those miracles."

"-What's so great about an ordinary life?"

Shizuka's voice is sharp, cutting - There's a bitterness to her words, a *snap* that comes from the heart. Entirely instinctive; almost a sneer. The bile in it is almost shocking...Until she closes her eyes, visibly composing herself.

Her fist trembles against the arms of her wheelchair.

"...What's so great about it?" she says, again - More softly this time. Her gaze is fixed on the long line of photographs - Of herself, walking, laughing, happy. They're clearly her cherished possessions, neatly snipped along one edge; A tremble to her voice, an instant of shakiness.

"-You think I *want* to live like this?"

Shizuka's nails rake against the side of her leg - They don't even twitch. A kind of desperate envy burns in her eyes.

"You already *had* your miracle, and you still-"

> "...Yes. But not for free. You have to make a trade: your heart for your heart's desire, and that's a deal that can't ever make you happy."

"What if I've already given that up?" Shizuka murmurs - "What if..."

She stops, abruptly. Carefully composing herself, taking slow breaths.

>>34032481

"-Get out."

Shizuka's voice is low, flat. Her throat works, her head down; for a moment, you think she might cry.

"...Just get out."

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34032573
Well, shit.

I knew that she wouldn't accept the truth. You talked about her spiritual icon like she was your best buddy.

>>34032573
"One man's trash is another man's treasure, Shizuka. Kotone got neither."

>>34032573
Does that mean she isn't one of the players at the school?

>>34032639

She probably means that she's crippled.

>>34032573

This is depressing. Can we just find Mio and cuddle her?

>>34032668
That will only end being even more depressing, so no.

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>>34032573
>her heart is because she just found out that her hero is also a mere mortal

>>34032553
He's older than Joker, Kotone is Joker's age. Kotone might call him onii-chan.

>>34032573
"Goodnight Madame President."

"Shizuka. I received no miracle from Kotone. There are other powers in this world besides hers."

>>34032668
Normally I'd be against it, but it's a shorter walk than back to the dorm. Second floor, get as much dreamless sleep as you can."

>>34032726

> "Second floor, get as much dreamless sleep as you can."

That might be a bad idea. We really, really shouldn't stay here. This is a GIRL'S DORM, we can't afford to push our luck

>>34032726
>He's older than Joker, Kotone is Joker's age. Kotone might call him onii-chan.
Kotone died ten years ago and was a student of Seisin back then. I doubt she's younger than Joker.

>>34032741
Like I said, normally I'd be against it, but one of the opening posts says Anon's so tired he's seeing spots. That's not conductive to sneaking out, plus four floors is easier than six floors, the entryway, the front door and crossing the rest of the school grounds.

>>34032726
>Normally I'd be against it, but it's a shorter walk than back to the dorm. Second floor, get as much dreamless sleep as you can."
Let's NOT do that and get away from this place as quickly as possible.

>>34032771
Then just make it clear to Mio that we really just need to sleep.

>>34032771
This will be really in bad taste after how our last meeting ended.

>>34032821
Yeah, agreed.

But we definitely do need our sleep. It's past midnight.

Does that mean that we missed something on our agenda?

>>34032766
I was referring to Naoya with the "him" there; Kotone is about Joker's own age, and would call Naoya "onii-chan". I suppose we don't know Kotone's age of death, but I don't think she was a Seisin student (at least the high school, we also don't know if Seisin is a multilevel school). IIRC the description said the body was tiny.

>>34032799
That was the idea.

>>34032668

No, that's an awful, awful idea. Leave Mio out of this, let's just sneak out of the place.

>>34032573
"I have killed to try and get a normal life back, and will probably kill a whole lot more. I'm scared of what each new day may bring, and the miracles I'll have to perform just to survive. Even when, or if, I live to see the end of all this insanity, the scar of it will haunt unto my dying breath...count your blessings."

>>34032832
The opposite, the plan was to go into the Diadem after midnight.

>>34032883
I think not.

>>34032832
>But we definitely do need our sleep. It's past midnight.
It's not like it will take hours to get to the guest dorm. Joker can probably brave this challenge. I don't think that the awkwardness caused by invading Mio's room and trying sleep there after being labeled as a pervert will be productive to either the relationship or sleep.

>>34032883
Veto.

>>34032891
Well, it's easier to sleep in a sweet embrace.
But that would be the dick move of dick moves right now.

Especially considering that Anon might seem a bit drunk from sleep deprivation when he enters her room.

>>34032910
>Well, it's easier to sleep in a sweet embrace.
Or might just end up giving him more PTSD-induced flashbacks now that he knows that he has to either sacrifice almost everyone in this dorm or force Mio world much more terrifying than her worst nightmares.

>>34032891
None of the students really thinks a pervert was around, they started a witchhunt because they're boy crazy and actually energetic under the pretenses.

>>34032910
No one is voting to sleep with her, just crash in her room. Literally walk in and pass out as soon as possible.

>>34032948
Or we tell Cybele to not eat anyone and start hunting Correctors with her to feed her essence manually.
The question is how much essence she *has* to get in order to manifest properly in the first place.

>>34032949
Context, Wata, context. Think of how awkward things will be after everything that transpired in the Labyrinth. We need to leave Mio alone for tonight, regardless of whether we're coming in to talk or just sleep like a rock.

>>34032948
Mio's presence has a calming effect on Joker so long as the Essence drain isn't in effect. Any PTSD effects would probably be a lot weaker near her than if he slept anywhere else.

>>34033005
Sorry, that's not me.

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>>34033033
Sorry, went full retard there.

Wow guys way to fuck up talking to wheelchair girl.

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>>34032637

Her lips press together, in a thin line - Resolutely, with a faint whirr of her chair's motors, Shizuka turns her back on you.

> "Goodnight Madame President."
> "Shizuka. I received no miracle from Kotone. There are other powers in this world besides hers."

"-I don't care," she says. Her eyes narrowed, her voice a low whisper. "I don't *care*. I have to believe *something*."

The door opens, without a sound, and you slip out. As it closes behind you, the last sight you see is a strange one; Shizuka's slender arms enfolding one of the old photographs, clutching it to her chest like something infinitely precious.

Her shoulders tremble, her head bowed - Lips moving silently, in what might be a prayer.

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

As always - Getting out is far, far easier than getting in. The initial flush of excitement has passed, the corridors emptied out; apparently, the students have taken Shizuka's words to heart. You're cautious, as you descend the steps, one level at a time - Once, you see the distant glow of flashlights, and wait 'till they pass.

There's a window left open, on the first floor. The cold night air that wafts in is as a cool as a benediction; You slip out, and let yourself drop to the grass below. You land well - The fall is short, but dizzying - dusting yourself off as you head for the hedge path in the distance, following the now-familiar route back to your dormitory.

-When the world goes red, one final time, you're barely surprised.

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

STAGE: ARCADIA

"-The conquering hero returns." Utopia Ruler's words are snide, punctuated by a flourish of his cane - His hands immaculately gloved, his coat of scales gleaming in the wyrd light as he stands amongst the tall stalks of wire-grass.

He checks his timepiece, the silver chain clinking - Then makes it vanish with a flick of his wrist, as the tall Player adjusts his top-hat.

(Continued)

I think the choice has already been made, but let's just get everything out in the open.

>Mio

>Hecate

>Cybele

One of these chicks has to be picked for the armor. It's probably gonna be our Waifu choice as well, so there's that. Below, I'll try and outline the good/bad of giving each the armor and the IC drives of each of them, starting with Cybele.

>Cybele
Practical Benefits:
-Is utterly loyal to Joker, giving her the suit will ensure the obedience of Chalice Queen
-Dat healing, mang
Practical Disadvantages:
-Will drain from living people while wearing the suit en masse.
-Will probably kill Mio and/or Hecate, given the chance.

IC Notes:
-We fucked her, so there's that.

>Hecate (personal fave)
Practical Advantages:
-Knowledge, has been just about everywhere in the Red World, knows alot about how it works
-Thief will not betray us out of affection for her (possibly)
-Knows how to use the fucking Nihl Sphere
-Already is emotionally attached to Joker
Practical Disadvantages:
-May feel 'betrayed' by all the rampant waifuing since then.
-May not remember much of anything
-Still has to kill people at random and drink their essence to survive

IC Notes:
-Taught Joker to love again.
-Best Grill

>Mio
Practical Advantages:
-WILL NOT KILL EVERYONE JUST USING THE CHALICE QUEEN SUIT
-LIKE, HOLY SHIT THIS IS A BIG DEAL
-Is deeply devoted to Joker emotionally
-Would still probably put out
-We kinda promised Hellebore
Practical Disadvantages:
-Little/no actual combat experience
-Has no knowledge of the Red World, and may not like us much for showing her

IC Notes:
-Current Object of affection
-Has already told us she's not really interested in more weirdness, might feel slighted by showing her

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>>34033171

"Past the stroke of midnight, too - When the coaches have turned back into pumpkins, and the footmen into rats." The ferrule of Utopia's wand-cane clicks against the ground, his black-buckle shoes polished to a mirror sheen.

"...And yet, I can't help but notice-" He tips his head back, his mirror-mask regarding the distant skies. "-the strange stars *still* circling through the skies of Lost Carcosa."

All levity leaves his voice.

"Please don't tell me that you *failed*, dear boy. The disappointment would break my heart."

His voice lowers.

"...And yours too, I'm sure."

[ ] "-All right. I won't tell you."
[ ] "...I have what you need." (Give him the Athame.)
[ ] "Not *now*, Utopia."
[ ] "Has anything changed?"
[ ] "You were waiting for me?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34033197

Oh fuck. Not you, I can't handle this right now.

>>34033197
>[x ] "Has anything changed?"
>[ x] "You were waiting for me?"

>>34033197
> "The Ghost of Hellebore interfered. I got what you want...but you'll have to pay for it. Dearly."

>>34033196
Anything I missed? To me, Mio seems like the best choice, though she might not take it well.

>>34033197
"Mixing your metaphors. And unless you're interested in how Kraken became the monster we know, you'll be disappointed to find we were wrong. The Diadem doesn't control the Black Moon, it services those in service to it. It's a glorified barracks."

>>34033221
I think not.

>>34033197
"What would you do if I told you that I could remove the Hyades curse from you?
Would still want to kill everyone?

But that's just hypothetical. I gained lots of knowledge. Like who the fuck Kraken is.
It's not possible to shut down the system. It's independant of this infrastructure."

By the way, guys, we might want to invest into some sensory upgrades for our future fight with Utopia Ruler.

>>34033288
>"What would you do if I told you that I could remove the Hyades curse from you?
Then he'd demand it and we'd lose the ability to decide where to apply the Athame. We're broadly agreed that it's either killing Alura or freeing Bishamon. Let's not mention anything about Hellebore or Rule Breaker.

>>34033288
>By the way, guys, we might want to invest into some sensory upgrades for our future fight with Utopia Ruler.

Would be nice if we could use the Hellions or Bits for some advanced triangulating array. (Yes, I know that is not currently a possible upgrade)

>>34033323
Actually, we could get the upgrade for summoning Virtues. Which have advanced sensory capabilities.
We'd just need to get their ECM suit upgraded.

>>34033317
>Rule Breaker
Where is Shirou when you need him?
It would solve all the problems.

>>34033332
Alternatively, the Falsehood Array might grant dedicated EWAR units.

>>34033332
Or we could buy the Argus upgrade that makes it an ECM, as well as the upgrade that boosts it with Cobalt power.

>>34033344
He's on fire like the rest of AC-Guy's life.

Terminus Scanner isn't marked as researched in the Hollow Sun Guide.

>>34033215

> [X] "Has anything changed?"
> [X] "You were waiting for me?"

"-But of course. I have, after all, invested considerable and effort in sending you on your way; I've awaited your return with bated breath."

He tips his top-hat to you.

"To answer your question: Yes. About an hour from your departure, the Diadem's field began to fluctuate - And, dear boy, you look like someone who's been through an *experience*."

>>34033255

> "Mixing your metaphors. And unless you're interested in how Kraken became the monster we know, you'll be disappointed to find we were wrong. The Diadem doesn't control the Black Moon, it services those in service to it. It's a glorified barracks."

If he had eyes, he'd be rolling them.

"Yes, yes - Very interesting, I'm sure. And utterly irrelevant, to our present predicament." Utopia makes a flicking gesture, with a spotless gloved hand - Dismissing your words with blithe disdain.

"-I may not have been clear...Perhaps small words and very large crayons would bridge the gap in communication." He plants his wand-cane at his feet - Both hands on the top, like a knight grounding a sword.

> "What would you do if I told you that I could remove the Hyades curse from you? Would you still want to kill everyone?"

Utopia sighs, exaggeratedly. He mimes pinching the bridge of his nose, as if to staunch a migraine.

"On general principle? Yes. As I've said before - At length - the very concept of the Hyades offend me. I've yet to see anything more distasteful..."

His voice trails off. His shoulders lift in an exquisite shrug.

"-And yet, one must make allowances. In extremis, I would indeed settle for a cure."

"Now." The curving mirror of his helm reflects your image imperfectly - Or perhaps the reflection is perfect, and it is the world that is distorted.

"Do. You. Have. It?" Utopia's cane taps against the ground with each word, as if he's spelling them out.

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34033247
You forgot that Cybele is crazy and thus not trustworthy, Hecate is dead or worse, and Mio's probably got some other inheritances from Hellebore we and she doesn't know about, if the significant-pause dialogue with Hellebore was any indication. I'd be worried about Manchurian Candidate stuff if it weren't all pointes at the Cardinal.

I broadly agree, Mio is the best choice, but it's going to be nasty.

>>34033439
"Not on me, no. But, it's a one-shot, and frankly there are others I'd prefer to put through it. Convince me that giving it to you will be more profitable."

>>34033455
>Cybele is crazy and thus not trustworthy
She's just isolated.
Her situation is basically Stockholm Syndrome towards Joker.

>>34033439
...I would like to just kill him right now. But we might need that Signal Booster beforehand.

>>34033439
If we give it to him we have to kill Bishamon.

"If I did I'd have said first thing. The Diadem was a bust."

>>34033476
Fucking vetoed.

>>34033455
Again, personally I would like to name Hecate. But that 'everyone will die if we don't choose Mio' thing is a real pisser. Hecate's in a coma on her way to becoming a Hyades. As I stated, Cybele will probably kill Mio and Hecate, given the chance.

>>34033487
It's nothing at all like Stockholm; do you even know what that is?

>>34033526
Someone captures you and your isolation causes you to see any act of kindness on their part as real kindness, causing you to take their side.

>>34033439
"We were wrong, Utopia. The Diadem is worthless to us."

>>34033439
"Afraid not, Utopia. You have invested resources and time into a plan that was going to fail from the start."

>>34033439
Do we want to fight Utopia Ruler now, or give him what he wants ?

>>34033507
>>34033579
>>34033590

> "If I did I'd have said first thing. The Diadem was a bust."
> "We were wrong, Utopia. The Diadem is worthless to us."
> "Afraid not, Utopia. You have invested resources and time into a plan that was going to fail from the start."

"-Well." Utopia takes the news without a change in expression - He doesn't *have* an expression, his mask a blank, faceless swirl reflecting everything and nothing - but he's oddly philosophical about it.

A sigh thrums from his mouthpiece, as his gloved hands smooth down his coat.

"I can't say that I'm not disappointed, dear boy. Still-" he adds, reflectively. "...Perhaps it *is* better this way. It was never my intention to take the main role, but...Some men have greatness thrust upon them."

He cants his head to the side - First one way, then the other.

"Joker-" Utopia says, all bland courtesy.

"-You realize, of course, that I have to kill you now?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>34033660
Does the limiter prevent us from simply punching him in the face?

>>34033673
Grab his cane with a Cobalt assisted move and break it over our leg.

>>34033673
Called it. Activate defenses and Argus, move.

>>34033673
"Can you?"

>>34033660
We're in Arcadia, the limiter should be in effect.

>>34033673
"Try and recall what happened to Malvolio, peacock. Know your place."

>>34033700
Have you read the last six or so episodes?

>>34033507
At this rate we have to kill Bishamon anyway.

Seriously, all avenues end with his death at this point. The only way out is to stop the Hyades' Game, which is the absolute primary reason that I am in support of that plan.

Of course, it doesn't seem like it's going to be that easy since we have no idea how to go about that. Maybe if we could get back inside, and shut down the simulation nexus, it'll remove all the girls from the Red and shut the whole thing down?

>>34033763

Or we could use the Athame on him. Just saying.

>>34033673
"You and everyone else in the Red.

It rarely goes well for them."

>>34033673
"Only one thing can take down the Red Joker, and you aren't it."

>>34033775
He's the honorful type.

>>34033763
I did advise going to the Nexus before the Panopticon. Oh well. We're going to have to either get creative with the Nihl Sphere or use the Athame. The Diadem is closed to us now.

>>34033742
I did, but it seems I have a little trouble focussing at the moment.

No powers, then. But I'm sure Utopia Ruler is going to cheat somehow

>>34033775
I don't think that's going to work. I mean, would you let Red Joker, a known Hyades' Champion, stab you? We wouldn't be able to tell him why, either. I don't think he trusts us that much.

Plus, it was stated that when the Athame is used, the champion will remember their Hyades fondly. That seems to me like it will backfire.

>>34033831
We're not fighting here. We'll be seeing him in the arena.

>>34033836
"Bishamon. Exec_Dictum: Freeze." If we're really paranoid we can use Fortress Mode to hide the deed.

>>34033673
"Utopia Ruler, Exec_Dictum: Forget"

>>34033930
Yeah, no.
Next you'll suggest "vegetable". Or "lobotomized".

>>34033930
Utopia Ruler, Exec_Dictum: Die

Pretty sure it actually doesn't work like that.

>>34033946
>>34033963
I was gonna go with Leave, but meh

>>34033742

"'Know your place?' My masters, are you mad?"

Utopia Ruler sounds more amused than hostile - But it's a false civility, something almost insolent in his poise as his voice goes flat, toneless.

"-And what place would that be, Joker?"

>>34033777
>>34033778
> "Can you?"

He does not quite smile; His helm is not made for it. But a low chuckle begins in the back of Utopia Ruler's speakers, a sound that echoes across the narrow distance.

>>34033675
>>34033690
>>34033700
>>34033930
>>34033963

The limiter is in effect - But you go for him anyway. Your autoreactive talons dig into the ground, myomer muscles bunching; And then comes the burst of acceleration, the lunge that drives you towards him, leading with your fists-

The swipe passes through his form like mist. And like mist, Utopia's form dissolves - A mirage, a phantom, curls of vapour swirling around you in a dull fog.

"Don't bother, Joker." His voice is all around you, coming from everywhere and nowhere at once. "Oh, I *could* kill you now..."

"-But what's about to happen is a lot more interesting."

And then all that remains are tendrils of mist dissolving in the pale moonlight - The slender spires of Arcadia mere black stalks against the orange glow of the horizon, sparks flying up like lost prayers into the bruised sky.

JOKER QUEST

EPISODE 102

TO BE CONTINUED

>>34033963
Technically it does, but he wouldn't just die. He would probably attempt to end his own life as quickly as possible, but I'm fairly sure it wouldn't last long enough for him to be successful. He might dive into Red Joker's line of fire, though.

>>34033974
For best results it needs to be a near-instantaneous command; the control only lasts so long.

Log-off (logoff?) might work.

>>34033992
I think we're up against Bishamon in the next round.

And I think he knows it.

>>34034010
Given what he just did, Solidify might be best.

>>34033992

(Gentlemen; I would love to continue, but it's extremely late on my end - And I have an early start tomorrow. I'll admit that this session took a very unexpected turn...Still, those are the vagaries of chance and the RNG.

As always, you've been a wonderful audience; Good night and God bless, and I hope to see you all again soon.

With this, we've finally moved on to Day 2 of the Festival; Progress!)

>>34033992
Shitshitshit
We definitely need to R&D us some measures to fuck people like him.

First would be Dirge Caster and Signal Booster.
But that's not enough. He's a trickster type.
We need AoE attacks and chain-hits.
Maybe something with lightning.

>>34034036
Sleep well, man.

>>34034036
>Progress
Hollow Sun charge!

Rest well. We players will be brainstorming countermeasures for this encounter.

>>34034044
I think we all know what the answer is.

SINGULARITY PROJECTOR

File: onecrazykerry.png (1.16 MB, 1080x1080)

1.16 MB PNG

>>34033992
>>34034036

Sneaky, slippery bastard.
That vanishing act certainly wasn't a stage effect or a log-out.

Nice run JQOP.

BTW, is it fitting that I hear Utopia Rule speaking in this BAMF's voice? Pic related.

>>34034025
For what he just did Carnifex 2 and the Disruptor Array would do it.

>>34034036
Thanks for running. Same time next week?

>>34034063
>Hollow Sun charge!
Looking forward to this.

>We players will be brainstorming countermeasures for this encounter.
I wouldn't bother. Don't bother planning for the last encounter.

>>34034089
>I wouldn't bother. Don't bother planning for the last encounter.
Pazuzu is likely a similar enemy.

>Disruptor Array
What exactly are you referring to? Tank equipment?

>>34034089

> Thanks for running. Same time next week?

Hopefully, I'll be able to run in the middle of the week. Fingers crossed.

>>34034101
>Pazuzu is likely a similar enemy.
Utopia is an illusionist/trickster. Pazuzu is a fucking wizard, having control over gravity and wind, as well as some minor reality-warping bullshit and probably a shitload of codebursts.

>>34034101
No, I mean, when you get into a fight you never want to base your entire combat plan around what happened last time. It's rarely the tricks you've seen that get you in trouble. Pazuzu will be his own thing that we can't possibly imagine; there's no telling what's coming from that direction.

And whoops, I meant the Dirge Caster. It's the same as the Virtue upgrade (accidentally conflated it with the Red Comet's own identical upgrade).

>>34034117
Nice to hear. Best of luck.

>>34034168
>No, I mean, when you get into a fight you never want to base your entire combat plan around what happened last time. It's rarely the tricks you've seen that get you in trouble.
His style is completely novel from what we are usually fighting. What I meant with planning is a general stock-up on things that work against tricksters in general.
Like the ECM suite and Signal Booster.

>>34034188
That's fine, but keep in mind that he's much, much stronger than his appearance suggests. It could very well turn into a full-on brawl. This is why I recommend such fun upgrades as Faust Impactors, Arc Chargers, and Koleos.

>>34034224
>Koleos
You have a guess as to its effect?

And the others are Hellion upgrades. Do you expect them to become the basis for new tech?

>>34034241
I think Koleos is Exec_Swarm related, but I don't have a great Hellion Relic track record. I'm mostly insanely curious.

The Faust Impactors is a direct Crisis Arm upgrade. Think of what the Cobalt Laser did to the Lucifer Bits. The Arc Charger could unlock a lightning related Scrander upgrade, or improve Volt's lightning gauntlets, and it also gives every Hellion a new weapon that doesn't require hands to use.

>>34034301
Well, the word "Koleos" means something like "sturdy hide". Armored beetles have that word in their Greek descriptions.
I'd guess that it's something defensive.

The Cobalt Laser was a direct tech unlock. Did we ever have instances of Hellion upgrades carrying over into our upgrade options?

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121 KB JPG

>>34034301
>The Faust Impactors is a direct Crisis Arm upgrade.
Big O's piston arms or pick related?

>>34034349
If it was literal, it would just make the pure non-gravimetric impact of our fists stronger.
...I just hope it doesn't lead to rocket fists. Those are silly even for the Red.

>>34034347
Advent Caster came straight from Gospel Relay. No direct item upgrades I admit, but Joker's Crisis Arm is nearly identical to the Crisis Arm wielded by the Cherubs. I'd be shocked if it didn't apply, though if it's a functionality change it should be a Foundry upgrade.

>>34034349
Closer to your pic. Unfortunately we're running with real robots, so no rocket punches.

>>34034366
A pile bunker could be cool though.

Especially if it's hidden. Red Joker's Right Hand is going to have a lot of tricks up it's sleeve.

>Why is his hand gold
>How did he catch my sword
>Why is there a hole in my torso
>What the fuck

>>34034416
>Why is there a hole in my torso
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlOoIMd9524

>>34034408
>>34034416
Maybe it could be a rocket-assisted punch... Wait, don't we already have rocket-assisted punches? Doesn't that happen when we cobalt boost?

We already punch with gravity. What other exotic force might this add?

What if the Faust Impactor gave us tech for Fuß Shin-breaker?

By the way, we need more upgrades for our legs.
We are hilariously top-heavy.

>>34034491
That's because our weapons are on the top half. A little extra leg armor would be nice though, considering what happened recently

>>34034536
That, or some knee-thrusters. Going to need some extra mobility on land.

>>34034552
Knee thrusters: Perfect for speed boosts, increasing flame size in MAXIMUM JOKER mode, as well as for covertly breaking the enemy's shin when he's focused on our clearly over-equipped upper body.

>>34034460
Ah, Big O, one of the few shows with a meta-centric plot that I actually liked.

>>34034461
I think we're taking extrapolation a bit far now. The Impactors will probably make the Arm hit much harder with no further changes on our end.

>>34034491
I think we need fewer shoulder equips, we have too many already. The Advent Caster would be best as a neck item, since it's supposed to interface with Joker's speaking system.

>>34034572
>The Impactors will probably make the Arm hit much harder with no further changes on our end.
If we didn't have Daegal, I'd just guess that they make us capable of using Crisis Arm without transforming our hands, in addition to a damage boost. But we already have that function now.

>>34028344
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YanjY9CsPDQ

>>34034572
>I think we need fewer shoulder equips, we have too many already. The Advent Caster would be best as a neck item, since it's supposed to interface with Joker's speaking system.
Maybe I should draw up a rough sketch of our equip positions.
Are our current missile racks permanent or do we summon them?

>>34034606
Daegal still requires an arm transformation. It's just the Gaunlet integrated the Arm and a Talon into itself, and he integrated the whole into Red Joker's right arm. So the same device now transforms into all three as necessary.

>>34034622
Built in to the shoulder now.

Also, a thought regarding the Chalice Queen and the other finalists

Where does Daegal fit in? If we can unlock the full capacity of that, we might not even need a Chalice Queen, which means we can safely shut the tournament down.

Current loadout:
- Four faction symbols (Cybele/Hellebore emblem, Tri-Star/Joker icons, Teleport Homer)
- One ring (Andvaranut, powers Power Transfer)
- One mask (Carnifex)
- At least two upgrades that thicken our musculatur and one that increases our armor, as well as the Carnifex upgrade that re-arranged our armor plates
- Three internally mounted items (Inertia Field, Sotto Voca, Emulator Module)
- Chest mounted Cobalt Booster

And now the meaty stuff:
Back:
- Scrander
- Hailfire Chaingun (on hardpoint)
- Arsenal Beacon

Shoulders:
- Assault Shroud
- Five interceptors
- Dual missile rack

Left arm:
- Sinistral
- Argus sensor
- One vulcan
- One axel grip

Right arm:
- Midas arm
- Vulcan & Axel

Hip hardpoints:
- Immolator
- Arc Gun

>>34034863

The Hailfire Chaingun seems to have this swing-out arm of it's own, sort of like War Machine's autocannon.

>>34034952
So it's both a back and a shoulder equip.
...How the fuck does it achieve its rest position on the back?

I really wish a drawfag would try to work this out.

>>34034863
I think I missed a bunch of stuff.
Like the Orthrus Crest.

We actually have four and a half icons.

>>34035003

A lot of the items are summoned when we need them, though. The Carnifex is something we put on, for example.

>>34035020
Actually, whenever we activate it, we get a description to the effect of "it snaps shut".
I interpreted it as having an articulated element that comes down when active.
It also makes sense, considering that it carries over into the real world. We have yet to see a summonable real world relic.

>>34035066

If you think about it, all of the Red Joker relics have a distinct theme. A Carnifex is an executioner's mask, and a Misericorde is a dagger used to put people out of their misery. Both are specifically items of ritual death.

>>34035090
...And I always thought that the Black Joker was supposed to incarnate death.

Does that mean that our weapons are not weapons, but tools for death? Is the armor supposed to summon the piece of equipment best suited to kill each individual foe that we deem unworthy of life?

>>34035139

Maybe the Red Joker's role is to be an executioner. The Black Joker doesn't actually seem to be death incarnate, but corrupt life. The weird copies of Bardiel and the Silencers are very much alive, but they're basically undead. Rust Kaiser also has incredible regeneration powers, but they corrupt him.

>>34035164
We really should have asked the Thief about the Silencers

>>34035164

Don't forget that Kotone is also technically an undead creature.

So it would mean that Red Joker is merciful destruction, the Black Joker is accursed life, and the White Joker is stasis, because of his ice powers.

Reminder to save Cybele no matter who we pick for Chalice Queen.

Secondary reminder that the Hellions still aren't fully pimped out and we'll never have enough charge to unlock/upgrade EVERYTHING the Hollow Sun offers.

>>34035203
...Yes, absolutely.
Thank fuck that our icon is about to become a communication device.

I like the idea of the Red Joker being the one who's supposed to have the perfect tool of death for every encounter.
It would make sense for an executioner.

Black Joker could be undeath.
But what is the White Joker?

I have a feeling that all three are supposed to fit together.

>>34035228
>because of his ice powers.
Where did you get from?
But I like your thinking.
Mercy in death. Suffering by clinging to life.

Does that mean that we should kill all the girls in the cradles, including Hecate?

>>34035232
>Reminder to save Cybele no matter who we pick for Chalice Queen.
I really wish we could do that. But considering the other guys here...

>>34035267

In the vision we had of Kotone, he was generating a field of extreme cold.

>>34035282
And another thing that I don't remember.
Man, my memory is full of holes.

>>34033196
Your forgot about Hecate

>Is vegetable/dead.

>>34035351

I think we may have to kill her.