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>>35038805

HOLLOW SUN: 80.6% (UPDATED)

http://pastebin.com/ddVJ0qQK

RESEARCH:

[X] MASS DRIVER
[X] INDUCTION BLASTERS
[X] DISINTEGRATOR CANNON
[X] MACHINE CANNON
[X] MICRO-SCALE SUSPENSORS
[X] POSITRON LANCE
[X] DISTORTION CANNON
[X] REACTIVE PLATING
[X] RESEARCH: HELIOS MATRIX

RESEARCH COMPLETE:

[X] RESEARCH: ASSAULT HARDSHELL
[X] DIRAC TRANSMITTER I
[X] SOLARIS CHARGING MATRIX I

VOID ANCHORS:

ORIGINAL HIVE
THE TRIBUNAL
NARAKA
THE VAULT
TUSITA

HOLDING: 1

RED COMET GUIDE:

http://pastebin.com/LJAfQmXy

UPDATES:

- Throne-class Hardshells unlocked.
- Distortion Halo added to the Vault.
- FIRMWARE UPGRADE, NEUTRONIUM REFINERY, CORE PROCESSOR, ASSIMILATION FACILITY and INTEGRATION PROTOCOLS added to Hollow Sun Upgrades.
- MICROCOMPACT FUSION REACTOR, STORM-GLOAM and KINESIS REGULATOR added to Hellion Upgrades.
- VEHICLE BAY II unlocked.

>>35038808
Fuck. I want all of those Hollow Sun upgrades.
Maybe just the Core Processor or Assimilation Facility for now, both of those bolster our forces.

Evening OP. Things all right with your family?

>>35038808
>UPDATES
Well. This changes things. Wow, the Vehicle Bay took no time at all.

I'd like to suggest the Assimilation Facility and the Advent Caster. Then we should pick one of the base model upgrades, or the Choir Beacon.

>>35038808
I can see forever. I'll third >>35038851 and >>35038884

Will converted Correctors get the Hellion upgrades? Or their own thing?

>>35038851
>>35038884

Hey guys, lets hold off on buying stuff for a little bit - remmeber, the apocalypse is TODAY

We got a fairly bit tip that the smilers are going to make a move on Mio, and launch their plan the next in-game day - so we need to be in damage control mode.

This means research may not pay off in time before we have to fire the sun.

>>35038884

Not in the mood for Vehicles any more?

That raptor is looking sexier than ever, and the tactical uplink does what we need a C&C vehicle to do

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>>35038948
If that was the case then JQOP wouldn't be giving us more upgrades.

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>>35038972

No, he's always been the kind to give us rope to hang ourselves with.

>>35038948
It's not, actually. We ARE going to see the beginning of the end, but we'll have the Sun for a while yet.

If you want to abuse meta, the appearance of the Assimilation Facility suggests that there's some time yet. If you trust OP, you shouldn't expect him to introduce gameplay elements that would screw us over at the last minute. Plot elements are their own thing. I'm with Hyde on this one.

>>35038963
Desperately want it. But it's a Foundry item, and there are things that will pay off in the longer term.

Looking at the Thrones, aren't they exactly what Argent made his special unit into? I'm tempted to get the Distortion Halo just to piss Armaros off.

INTERLUDE:

STAGE: TIR NA NÓG

Underfoot - Desolation.

Black iron sand, stirred into a moaning dirge by gale-force winds. The bloody crimson glow of magma, sullen radiance illuminating the understand of heavy grey clouds, flickering with the rotation that threatens a storm.

VENOM STINGER reels back, as Iron Ogre's fist takes him in the gut. Emerald carapace cracks, beneath the blunt force of the blow - He hurls an arm out, and his iridescent buckler splinters beneath the great sweep of a pitch-black axe, shivering into a thousand jewelled fragments. At Stinger's back, the desert hums with death - Somewhere out there amongst the churning sands, the only light coming from the hell-glow of the lava below and from their weapons themselves.

Flares of energy crackle and spit, with each clash - Stingblade against hammer, poinard against bastard sword, sword against sword - shrieking down the length in a fizzle of sparks.

Stinger blade against iron pauldron.

Iron fist into helmet - Again, and again.

The last moment of the fight play themselves out with the deadly inevitability of attrition, and Venom Stinger has never felt further for home. When Iron Ogre's maul cracks into his knee, the joint gives - Coming apart in a mad whirl of spalling and armor fragments, the stingblade spilling from a spasming hand as Venom's blasters still spit futile pulses of acid green light against Iron Ogre's hide-

He has his hands up. "Wait-" Stinger manages - his voice a clotted rasp through ruined speakers. "*Wai*-"

But it is Iron Ogre's scythe that answers him, in a brief, blurring sweep-

And all of him becomes nothing at all.

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

This particular corner of the Cultural Festival is - at a glance - less crowded, less noisy, than the rest...Less populated, too, and it isn't hard to see why.

(Continued)

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>>35039055

After all, the appeal of student plays and performances can't really be compared to the appeal of the rows of food stalls and amusements and rides outside the designated area...

-Still, it's traditional. The winner of the Drama component's decided by voting - You can't help feel that makes for a rather lopsided system, but every little bit helps.

"Anon-kun, this way~!"

...Mio's enthusiasm seems undampened, at any rate. She's been all smiles since the brief sojourn at the fortune-teller's, almost determinedly so: Her expression thoughtful, at times, as if considering something...Gone as quickly as it'd come, beneath her good cheer - Until you can't help but wonder if you imagined it.

Past the raised archway of the delineated area, the noise seems to recede, somewhat - The booths set in die-straight, orderly lines, each one marked in a school's colors like the banners of opposing armies.

Mio's waiting for you to catch up, her hands clasped behind her back. She can't help but smile, winsome and oddly excited, the hem of her skirt rustling as she turns back to you.

"-I can't believe it's tomorrow..." she says, with a low sigh. "Today's already the second day of the Festival...It's all happening so fast." For a moment, Mio looks almost crestfallen - There's something vulnerable in her expression, almost wounded, her green eyes going distant as she gazes as the ranks of stalls.

[ ] "-Are you going to miss it?"
[ ] "Time flies when you're having fun."
[ ] "...You're really looking forward to this, aren't you?"
[ ] "Cheer up. There's still one day left to go, isn't there?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35038908

(It'd be their own thing, actually.)

>>35038884

(Yep, things are all right. It was quite a scare, though.)

>>35039134

how much did we tell her from what we wanted to at the end of the thread, jqop?

>>35039134
>"-Are you going to miss it?"
>"Cheer up. There's still one day left to go, isn't there?"

>>35039134
>[ ] "Time flies when you're having fun."

You know, it would be so dirty if we could somehow steal Kraken's Corrector controlling ability and combine it with the Assimilator. Then we'd just keep marching Correctors into it and get free Hellions forever.

>>35039150

We're waiting 'till later to tell her.

>>35039134
>[x] "Cheer up. There's still one day left to go, isn't there?"

>>35039134
>[X] "Time flies when you're having fun."
"I wonder if they'll do it again in ten years? We should come back if they do."
"I'm trying to remember if I came to the last one. Went to a lot of festivals with Kazu and Na-chan when we were kids, and this is one of the biggest, yet somehow I can't bring it to mind."

>>35039145
Very glad to hear.

>>35039158
Not Hellions; Hellionized Correctors. They'd have their own upgrade tree and everything.

So, Assimilation Facility sound good to people? We can argue the rest for the rest of the thread. Wata, you wanted the Advent Caster for that two sentence thing, right?

>>35039195
I think so. There's a lot of interest, at least.

And it's a good plan. Pair it with more Leukocyte upgrades and it will make for a very bad time for people we fight en masse.

>>35039165

THERE IS NO LATER. THIS IS OUR LAST CHANCE. SHARE BASIC INFO LIKE AUTOPILOT, OR STAYING CLOSE TOMOROW

>>35039224
Chill the fuck out. Seriously, all you're doing is making people not want to do it out of spite.

>>35039222
I just wanted muh motorcycle mang.

>>35039246
We're still getting it. We lose nothing, least of all the opportunity to use it, by getting other things this thread.

Besides the Ophanim, what are you interested in getting?

>>35039150

(It's a direct continuation from the last thread.)

>>35039153
>>35039158

> [X] "Time flies when you're having fun."

Mio makes a low sound of affirmation - Her gaze warmer, now, as it settles on you. She colors - Just a little - and nods, the faint, sweet flush to her cheeks returning.

> [X] "-Are you going to miss it?"

"...A little," she admits. "Not just the Festival itself, I mean...Before, when we were preparing for it - Everyone was so excited. Just looking forward to it - All those busy, bustling days...It's kind of lonely, now that it's actually here..."

There's an odd melancholy to her voice.

"-Our second year's almost over...It'd be time for exams, after that - Then the third one..." she shakes her head, lightly, slim fingers coming up to brush stray strands of blonde hair back from her cheeks. "Sometimes, I wish time would stop moving...That things could just - just stay the way they are, for a little while longer..."

> "Cheer up. There's still one day left to go, isn't there?"

Her brows knit, her gaze lowered. For a moment, Mio looks troubled...But then her expression eases, with a sidelong glance at you - A glance that lingers, an odd mix of hope and trepidation.

She nods, and goes quiet.

> "I'm trying to remember if I came to the last one. Went to a lot of festivals with Kazu and Na-chan when we were kids, and this is one of the biggest, yet somehow I can't bring it to mind."

"Ah, really? It's the same for me, too - I *think* I was here before, but..." her words trail off, into a thoughtful silence. "-it's hard to remember, sometimes. Still, this feels nostaglic, somehow..."

Her voice goes distant, and you wondering what she's remembering.

> "I wonder if they'll do it again in ten years? We should come back if they do."

She blinks, surprised - "I suppose so, but...Ten *years*. That's a long time..."

(Continued)

Hang on, OP, what does this mean?
>(10% regeneration per round - Except in Burst Mode.)

Does the regen not work during Carnifex II?

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>>35039318

> Does the regen not work during Carnifex II?

(Yes. It's a game balance issue - Also, allowing the Cobalt Booster to regenerate during Carnifex II would effectively double your time available, when it's meant to be time-limited. I'll likely to re-examine it for a future upgrade, however.)

"-But..." and there's a kind of earnest sweetness to her words, now - "...If Anon-kun promises to escort me then, too - I'll definently come back."

While that's a nice sentiment, you're not sure if-

"Aaah, that was a joke~!" Mio says, a little flustered - and, only half-audible, in a small voice-

"...though if you did promise, I wouldn't mind..."

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

"-This is the place? Wow..."

Your school's festival stall is...Well, it's actually pretty impressive, to tell the truth. There's a very professional look to it, even the glossy pamphlets detailing the program; There's this razor-sharp divide between 'worth reading' and 'embarassing', and you're happy to say that this is on the right side of that division...

But it's the art that's especially impressive. You recognize the haunting vistas being depicted, though the effect is a little less striking in the full light of day - Still a little eerie, however. Some of the images strike an odd chord of familiarity; The skeletal structure of a great ship, a figure staring up in awe at a graceful silhouette, beneath the light of a full moon...

As you'd expect, Yui's at the front of the booth - She has her game face on, answering the occasional questions from passer-bys...Always concluding with a brief but heartfelt - "Please support us tomorrow." each time they move past. You can't blame her; While this was supposed to be in shifts, you can tell she really wants to make this a success...As well as the others she's press-ganged into making the rounds for her, of course.

(You drew the long straw. Your luck, it seems, is turning in your favor.)

(Continued)

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>>35039394

There's a lull, as Mio approaches; It's not that crowded here, except for the occasional curious 'tourist' - Yui's gaze fastens on Mio, a flicker of surprise passing across the Class Rep's features-

"Mio?" she says, sounding momentarily puzzled - Her eyes flitting past her, then settling on you. Something like realization dawns on her face; Yui's brow furrowing, lightly, her gaze downcast as her lips press together in a line...But she rallies, magnificently, managing a polite smile as she dips her head in a little bow.

"...Thank you for your help, earlier," Yui says - Just a little stiffly, looking anywhere but at you. "We really appreciate your-"

"N-no, that's all right~!" Mio cuts in, hastily - "-That's...Ummm, that was just my job. It's a little embarassing when you say it like that..." she's earnest, almost painfully so, her flush growing deeper - "...I'm just - You're working a lot harder than I am. I was looking around the festival-"

"...with Anon-kun?"

You wince. Mio doesn't seem to notice.

"-with Anon. I think it's really interesting, that's all..."

Mio glances over her shoulder, in your direction - She looks like she's hoping for support. You can't help but notice how Yui's *also* looking - Her expression as calm as ever, but somehow colder than usual...It's enough to make your blood run cold.

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35039499
Yep.

Look her in the eye and nod. We've already said everything that needs to be.

>>35039555
To her, yes. Mio has no idea that she's running into a minefield.

>>35039499
Nod at Yui.

Talking at times like these is likely to cause irreparable damage.

Try to drag Mio away?

>>35039499
Ummm I think my phone is ringing, I need to get this

>>35039590
A fair point. Meet Yui's eyes and make sure she sees Anon break contact to smile at Mio.

We'll have to mention that Yui asked Anon out once we're away.

>>35039596
I say no, there's no avoiding this.

>>35039629
>there's no avoiding this.
Yes there is, by pretending you getting a phone call.

>>35039652
No, because it doesn't change what she knows. Avoiding this was possible if we'd chosen to not to come to the booth; the only thing that dodging does now if make Anon out to be a coward.

>>35039666
>the only thing that dodging does now if make Anon out to be a coward.
And avoid a crazy bitch who hates us. Also so what if anon is branded a coward, I bet your the death before dishonour type of faggot

>>35039694
Or you know, not acting ashamed of our girlfriend in front of someone we dumped. Gotta stand by your decisions. Anon can't just run away from a problem just because she's mad.

>>35039555
>>35039595
>>35039629

You...nod?

You look away, but you can still feel Yui's gaze boring into you. When you smile at Mio - which she takes to be an 'it's all right', presumably - Yui's eyes narrow, fractionally, and you can almost feel the temperature drop.

"-memorized all the lines, and..."

"...It's nice of him to accompany you," the Class Rep says, calmly. Mio falters, at that - Puzzlement flickers in her eyes, momentary wrong-footed.

"R-right," she says, then - with the touch of a blush - "...Anon-kun's really nice..."

Fabric rustles, as Yui folds her arms together before her - Just a slight shift, nothing more. "-Ah, is that so?" she murmurs, almost to herself. "I'm glad he's such a gentleman."

"Um..."

It's dawning on Mio that's something's not quite right here. A faintly harried expression crosses her face, as she moves to say-

"Mio-chan, how long have you known Anon-kun?" Yui's asking, now, in that smooth, unhurried - almost casual - voice that's a bit like a closing vice. It makes you feel a bit like an animal in a trap, just before it chews off it's own leg.

"I - Ah - a few months ago?" Mio's distinctly rattled, now, her eyes darting from side-to-side; There's this whole other conversation going on beneath the surface, one you're oddly glad not to be privy to. Then, the riposte-

"Yui, I'm surprised that you know him. Kazuya-kun and Natsumi-chan are his best friends, but...he's never mentioned you before."

-You note the first spots of color in Yui's cheeks, now.

This might just be bad.

(Continued)

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>>35039694
>Yui
>crazy
>hates Anon
What.

>>35039757
MIO YOU FOOL

>>35039757
PICK UP YOUR PHONE AND PRETEND ITS RINGING

>>35039757
Oh come on, that's Natsuru level denseness. Of course Yui's catty, we actually brought our girlfriend to visit, days after we told her we would not escort Yui since we were with her already.

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>>35039757

"Mmmn." Yui's fingers intertwine, lightly - "A popular person like you...I'm glad you remembered their names." Her gaze meets Mio's, for a long, acutely uncomfortable moment - Holding it steadily, as Mio goes red, then pale.

"I'm sorry to impose on your free time - Amane-chan and Funade-chan are busy enough. But since Shizuka assigned you to our class...They'll just have to bear it, I suppose. I'm sure they'll understand."

There's a soft hiss of indrawn breath-

Now might be a good time to step in.

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35039932
>>35039757

God damn. I can actually feel my balls recede a little at the burns they're exchanging.

>>35039914
>>35039932
"Mio, why don't you go ahead and see Asuna? I'm sure she'll be thrilled to hear how much you like the play. Yui and I need to finish a conversation we started two days ago."

Once she's gone:

"It hurts, doesn't it? To see the one you love with someone else. I am sorry I do not reciprocate your feelings, and that I underestimated their depth. I wouldn't have come if I had thought it would cause you pain. But she is not at fault for what I told you. If you have a problem with what happened, then take it up with me, and not her.

"That was petty, Yui. I thought you were better than that."

>>35039932
I actually kind of want to see it play out, but I think it'd be best to move on to Asuna.

>>35040009

That's a tad melodramatic. How about just telling her to ease up a little?

>>35040009
>"That was petty, Yui. I thought you were better than that."
Jeeeeeeeeeeeesus.

Agreed, though.

>>35040009
>"It hurts, doesn't it? To see the one you love with someone else. I am sorry I do not reciprocate your feelings, and that I underestimated their depth. I wouldn't have come if I had thought it would cause you pain. But she is not at fault for what I told you. If you have a problem with what happened, then take it up with me, and not her.
Holy shit, Wata.
NO.

"Sorry, I couldn't keep Mio away from here.
I won't tell you to not be angry and I understand what you feel, but I do not enjoy seeing my girlfriend bullied. She already went through enough."

>>35040048
>ease up a little
"Hey, yo, bitch. I just killed your dog and murdered your parents.
Take it easy, will ya?"

For researches, I'd say that we definitely need to get Dirac Transmitter 2.

Also, Firmware upgrade seems really interesting. I wonder if it will add better AI to our vehicles.

I really love all of those new Hollow Sun upgrades.

Personally, I would like to unlock Koleos or Echo Regalia, to find out what they do.

>>35040133
Vehicle AI is completely separate.

>>35040148
Vehicle AI upgrades are based on Hellion AI, from what I remember.
Same as Sword Bits.

It might add a lvl 4 upgrade.

>>35040179
Not according to the guide it isn't.

>>35040009

> "Mio, why don't you go ahead and see Asuna? I'm sure she'll be thrilled to hear how much you like the play. Yui and I need to finish a conversation we started two days ago."

The look Mio gives you is infinitely grateful, as she brushes past Yui - she doesn't look back, as she vanishes into the depths of the booth, safely out of line of sight...And earshot. She's probably just glad for any excuse to get away, now.

> "That was petty, Yui. I thought you were better than that."

For a moment, Yui's silent - She's standing perfectly still, composed...But the slight tremble to her fingers, to her voice, gives it away.

"...It's your fault," she murmurs - Not like an accusation, but like a whisper, one you weren't meant to hear at all. She exhales, sharply - Biting her lip, her brow furrowing in agitation. "I thought...I thought I was, too, but-"

Yui can't look at you. Her hands part, her fingers biting into her palms - Her eyes a little red at the edges, a hitch to her breath.

"...I didn't think - I thought I wouldn't be this upset, but..."

>>35040094

> "Sorry, I couldn't keep Mio away from here.
> "I won't tell you to not be angry and I understand what you feel, but I do not enjoy seeing my girlfriend bullied. She already went through enough."

And Yui echoes, faintly-

"...your *girlfriend*-"

Her throat works. She swallows, hard - Her hands rising again, hugging herself in an oddly defensive gesture. Now, more than anything, she just sounds hurt.

"-I see," Yui says, and it's an effort - Her throat tightening, gaze going inward as she withdraws onto herself. With an abrupt gesture, she swipes at her eyes, shaking her head - Long hair swaying in her wake.

"Anon-kun, you..."

She catches herself, starts again.

(Continued)

>>35040212

"I - know I shouldn't be angry. I know you told me honestly, but..."

When her gaze meets yours, her eyes are moist, shining with almost-tears.

"I...really hate you for this. It - really hurts to feel like this..." A hand presses lightly to her breast, her fingers curling against her chest. The reserve in Yui's voice keeps her voice low, acutely aware of her surroundings even as she speaks - It's a mercy that no-one is watching.

"...I wish I was more upset at you, but..."

She looks back, at where Mio's vanished to.

"-I can accept it, but...It feels like - I want to take it out on her, somehow. Isn't that - Isn't that awful?" Yui's barely-audible, now, her voice wavering between hurt and wan realization. "...I don't even know - when I became that kind of person..."

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35040231
>[x ] Free
(I'll paraphrase it) "It's not awful to think that. I'm sorry that you are upset. I hope that we still can be friends"

>>35040231
"The pain is how you know it was real, Yui. When did it start? What happened to make you notice me?"

"You're not to blame for how you feel. But try not to hate Mio. You both deserve better."

>>35040289

Yeah, but just the latter. Talk about reopening old wounds.

>>35040289
>The pain is how you know it was real, Yui.
Oh come on, everyone here must have read/heard that line thousands of times. Even Yui would probably laugh if she heard it.

>>35040331
Maybe, but I'm curious and trying to figure out where the first point of contact was. Just about the last chance here.

>>35040344
I'd actually never heard anything to that effect until last month, so...

>>35040231
>Isn't that - Isn't that awful?"
"It's natural. That's how these things go - Either you are infinitely happy or you feel the urge to murder people.
You aren't a bad person for having feelings, as long as you aren't controlled by them. I have seen people who acted purely on emotions and ended up even more hurt."

>>35040289
>"The pain is how you know it was real, Yui. When did it start? What happened to make you notice me?"
Dude, we are navigating a minefield and you are suggesting to go the YOLO route.
That's the worst question you could ask. The best decision is to keep this short. A few words that help her not hate herself and then we are off.
She needs time alone. Not telling us her life story.

>>35040380
If you're okay with not trying to figure out how to stop Anon from opening routes every time he talks with a girl... Otherwise I'm with him.

>>35040331
>>35040380
You guys DO realize this is the last chance to ask, right? Any other time and it's not appropriate.

>>35040464

Do we even want to know? What would be the point? We could have picked this girl, but we didn't. Let's move on.

>>35040380
This

>>35040473
To bring a proper close to it. To understand her better. To understand Anon better. For her closure. There are reasons it's worth asking, at least.

>>35040380

Let's not, and say we did. This is already painfully awkward.

>>35040502
I would argue in favor of that if we knew her on a personal basis.
But our only interaction with her is basically on a professional level.

>>35040514
That's exactly it. We need to close the loop with Yui, not the stuco pres.

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>>35040284

> (I'll paraphrase it) "It's not awful to think that. I'm sorry that you are upset. I hope that we still can be friends"

Yui smiles, faintly. It's wan, forced, her voice carefully measured - "...I'm not sure," she says, her expression troubled. "-It's...difficult, now. Being around you - It still hurts." Then, wonderingly: "It's...Anon-kun, it's strange. Even after being rejected...My feelings still haven't changed."

She lowers her gaze, staring at the tabletop. Absently, she shuffles the pamphlets and the other papers before her, as if trying to distract herself from the conversation at hand.

> "You're not to blame for how you feel. But try not to hate Mio. You both deserve better."

"Was I..."

In a low voice:

"...I really was terrible to her. Anon-kun...Please tell her that I'm sorry for that." Yui looks away - Perhaps a little ashamed, now, her head lowered. "-I didn't mean to..."

She leaves the rest unsaid. You don't think she could force the words of an apology, right now.

>>35040364

> "You aren't a bad person for having feelings, as long as you aren't controlled by them. I have seen people who acted purely on emotions and ended up even more hurt."

The sound she makes surprises you - An abrupt little laugh, honest but troubled.

"-Even now, you're saying such strange things," Yui murmurs, almost fondly. "Anon-kun...You're still such a confusing person."

Her gaze turns inwards. "But...It makes sense to you, doesn't it? The way you're easy with people...The way you're comfortable with yourself - The way you seem so *sure* about everything, when you take everyone just as they are...It's very easy to like."

The faintest flush lingers in her cheeks.

"Only - That's all there is, isn't there? Beneath that charm - You don't actually think about what you're doing. It's just - To you, it's the easiest thing in the world."

(Continued)

>>35040608

A shuddering breath, slow, longing.

"I wanted - I wanted to know how that felt. Anon-kun...Sometimes, you can really be the *worst*. You mean what you say, but...You make people think they're *important* to you. Or..." and almost thoughtfully, now: "-do you just tell them what they want to hear?"

"I thought - With you, I could move beyond myself. Become more honest abo-"

She stops, mid-sentence. The blush lingers, as she exhales slowly - waiting for it to fade.

"But...That's over, now. Except - I never had a chance in the first place, did I?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35040656
"I call it like I see it. And you never needed me to change yourself; you were doing just fine at the arcade."

"Take care Yui. It really was nice."

>>35040608

Good god, look at that girl's body. That explains the sex scene.

>>35040656
"Actually, you seem pretty honest to me right now.
Maybe you are already right on track.

I don't like the people around me to suffer. I already saw and produced enough of that."

>>35040733
Good god, no.

>>35040719
It's all about the forehead

>>35040810

(Gentlemen, my apologies: I lost the connection for a moment. Writing now.)

>>35040702

> "I call it like I see it. And you never needed me to change yourself; you were doing just fine at the arcade."
> "Take care Yui. It really was nice."

"Ah-" Surprise flits across her cool features - Not an epiphany, but a belated realization; Her hushed inhalation accentuating the gasp, her eyes widening slightly-

>>35040733

> "Maybe you are already right on track.

Is she? It's hard to tell - But there's something that defies definition, something new in her gaze, in the furrowed of her brow.

"...Maybe," Yui says, low, soft. "-Maybe."

Behind her, the curtains - Strategically positioned to give the small room in the back a modicium of privacy - rustle, then part, as Mio emerges. Asuna's with her: She doesn't look well. A little pale, a little peaky...The stress of the day might be getting to her, but the smile she exchanges with Mio is heartfelt enough.

"-Asuna-chan, thank you," Mio is saying; She's holding something - A small notebook, the binding cracked - to her chest, a sincere note of appreciation in her voice. Then, doubtfully: "...Is this really okay?"

A slight nod from Asuna reassures her - "-It is. Really. I'm - I'm just glad you like it..."

Asuna's words waver as she glances in your direction - But her smile lingers, a little pained, but honest - without a wince, as Mio hurries to your side. Mio glances back at Yui, dubiously...But whatever she sees makes her pause, for the space of a second - Her most recent acquisition clutched against her bosom, like a newfound treasure.

"Anon-kun...Can we go now?"

[ ] "Sure."
[ ] "Actually, I think Yui has something to tell you."
[ ] "-What's that?"
[ ] "If everything's all right here."
[ ] Talk to Asuna.

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35040960
>[X] "Sure."
Mouth "Thank you" at Asuna and leave.

Then:
>[X] "-What's that?"
"Yui wanted to apologize."

>>35040960
>[ ] "Sure."
>[ ] "If everything's all right here."

>>35040960
>"Sure."
>"-What's that?"

>>35040997
>"Yui wanted to apologize."
Don't make her apologise to her face, this is hard enough on her without that. If she wants to do it she can, we'd just be a dick forcing her to say it

>>35041034
That's why I said to tell her after we left.

> [X] "Sure."
> Mouth "Thank you" at Asuna and leave.

Asuna starts - She's still a little nervous around you, and it shows. But she relaxes enough to acknowledge your words, with a brief nod...Though her eyes are hooded, behind her glasses. She does, however, muster up a wave - Mostly to Mio, though her gaze rests on you for a moment longer.

> [X] "Sure."
> [X] "If everything's all right here."

"-We'll manage," Yui says, firmly - Allowing herself a slight smile. "After all...It's just a few more hours, anyway. So, please don't worry."

There's a finality in her words - As if she means rather more than that. Mio's already turning away, anxious to leave...But you catch the message directed at you.

The wind picks up. The bright pennants flutter in the late afternoon sun, the sky shading from blue to velvet. This late in the year, night comes early; there might only be a few hours of good light left.

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

"...Is she always like that?" Mio's voice is low, tentative, her mood dampened by the events of before; She's pensive, her feet making no sound as they pad lightly against the ground.

It's quiet, where you are; Moving away from the festival, towards the raised hedges of the Maiden's Labyrinth. The garden is still beautiful - Not as bewitchingly, eerily beautiful as last night, but still a genuine vision - as you thread between the rosebushes and the paths, the fountain shedding glimmering droplets that glisten like gems.

"Anon-kun...She was so - so *horrible* all of a sudden - I just wanted to -"

> "Yui wanted to apologize."

She stops in her tracks.

(Continued)

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>>35041226

"-Really?" It's low, soft. Mio's expression wavers - A complex melange of emotions chasing each other across her features. "...I didn't think she would." She still sounds faintly dubious, as if doubting the veracity of it.

"I'm...not sure I understood everything, but - I felt bad for her, somehow. Just a little, but still..."

Her voice trails off. "-But still," Mio finishes. "...Even if she's sorry - I'm not sure that makes it all right."

> [X] "-What's that?"

Mio's fingers brush against the binding of the little book.

"This? It's the play's liner notes." A touch of awe enters her voice - "...Asuna's really smart - The way she thinks can be a bit scary sometimes. But to let me read this...It feels like something really special." She holds it a little closer.

"I've always wanted to write something like that...But I'm always too embarrassed. That's the difference between us-" A laugh, slow and self-depreciating. "...I can really be a coward, when it comes to things..."

Then, as she goes quiet:

"-Anon-kun. Why me?"

The surrusation of the water is the only sound in the garden, in the space between her words.

"...I don't really get it, but - Yui likes you, doesn't she? And-" avoiding your gaze, now - "Asuna, too." Mio's hands clasp together before her - Her fingers white against the binding of the notebook.

"But even so, you still..."

"-you still k-kissed me..."

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35040960
>"Anon-kun...Can we go now?"

[ ] "Actually, I think Yui has something to tell you."
Give yui a look, but don't actually SAY that - maybe she'll do it on our own.

You know, if we wanted to tell people about the apocalypse tomorrow, maybe do something about it, all it would take is opening asuna's notebook in front of the seer, the school president, and the hyades jesus.
Like the opportunity we haven now.

And...crap, asuna. Well you guys wanted to avoid her last time, and she's here now! wata, deploy your best WORDS.

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>>35041273
Because our first choice died.

>>35041273
"Because I like you" then kiss her

>>35041289

Yes. YES. Amazing.

>>35041273
"Because you were the one who lightened up my days after I lost an important person.
And maybe because I see a bit of myself in you. People sometimes attack you for no reason, just as they do with me."

>>35041273
"-you still k-kissed me..."

[ ] Free

"Ssh! er." Lean a bit closer. "I'm not embarrased to hear you say it, but my school's totally going to be jealous that I'm with such a beautiful girl."

Pause. Give her a slightly mischevous look.

Put our hand on the notebook, and ask "Do you -really- want to know why? How I know the right thing to do all the time?"
If she gives a slight inkling of a yes - let HER decide - open the notebook up to a..... Prophetic, Important page.

>>35041289
We can't tell her that

>>35041289
Speak for yourself.

>>35041320
Hence why there were no quotation marks.

>>35041320
He was obviously talking on a meta-level.

>>35041273
"Lots of reasons. But what it comes down to is that I like you." Tilt her chin up and kiss her.

>>35041280
Bit late dude.

>>35041289
/v/ is over there, Adachi.

>>35041329
>>35041333
And I'll say it again, speak for yourselves.

>>35041319

I agree with the first part, but stop trying to force PLOT into everything. It is incredibly autistic.

>>35041337
>"Lots of reasons. But what it comes down to is that I like you." Tilt her chin up and kiss her.

RIGHT here in front of asuna and yui?

Do you REALLY want to rub it in?

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Can we not kiss her right before telling her that the apocalypse is tomorrow? Feels like it's in really bad taste.

>>35041353

And you need to stop avoiding it before she dies.

>>35041358
M8, did you skip over all the non-dialogue portion of the posts?

>>35041364
I don't think it's in bad taste, as it isn't our first kiss.
All kisses now are just signs of affection.

>>35041358

(Just to clarify, you're not in front of them at present. My apologies, I should have been clearer: You're some distance away from the festival, in the gardens.)

>>35041358
Dude, we're in the Maiden's Labyrinth.

>>35041366
Not that guy, but are you an idiot? We already agreed last time that we would bring her to Kotone's chapel in the garden at the end of the day and then talk.
Until then, we're trying to enjoy the date.

>>35041364
You're right, Anonymous. We should pretend to kiss her but then whisper in her ear that she actually has the ability to turn into a cool robot but doing so will kill all of her classmates but we're not really bothered either way, however, it means we won't be able to free one of our friends from being brainwashed which is kind of shit we suppose but if she wants to be a cool robot we can just off him.

>>35041369
Timing has a lot to do with things like these. Kissing her when she's still unsure of out feelings, right before we're about to drop the biggest bomb she's ever seen? Not in good taste, no matter how you look at it.

>>35041381
You know, that's the "holy shit autism" BAD END that I'd love to see in a what-if.

>anon outs himself as full spergy autist mecha otaku with full disregard for human life

>>35041381
Oh, right, we'd also have to mention that we're the coolest robot and actually over 100 years old (mentally)

>>35041273

Kiss her.

>>35041393
>Bad end
>Implying
It turns out that Mio thinks robots are really cool too and we go onto wreck cunts as cool robots and avert the apocalypse but we don't buff up the shroud because that would mean that there would be fewer cool robots which would be pretty shit

>>35041412
>Smilers become cannon fodder and Argent is BBEG

>>35041390
I actually don't think we're going to tell her about the Red, even at the chapel. We had an all-real social thread last time, getting two is pretty rare.

We do have to prepare her for tomorrow. I think I have an idea, if the I'm right about the suggestions OP's been dropping about her hairdec. A bit of secret Nihl charge and teaching her the right name and she's got a protector.

>>35041428
Don't see why, there's still millions of Correctors. And the whole other world full of them.

>>35041458
We still have to deal with all Simulation Players dying, though.

>>35041488
It's just the deaths of hundreds of highschool girls. Doesn't really affect us.

>>35041503
I like this quest better when the sociopath isn't here.

>>35041513
I like this quest better when people pick up on sarcasm.

>>35041488
Isn't that what making a real person Chalice Queen is supposed to solve?

>>35041525
Not exactly. My memory is pretty shit so I might be wrong, but it just means she doesn't constantly have to be fed Essence. Maybe? Or it's both and she's built up enough of it to power the thing herself.

>>35041525
Yes, but how are we then going to deal with Mio's mindbreak after she becomes a Chalice Queen without knowing anything?

>>35041523
Shocking news: When people have a history of anonymously acting like shit, people get called out when they act like shit.

>>35041544
With our dick, just like we did with Cybele.

>>35041547
No need to get so mad about it.

>>35041566
I was being sarcastic you foof.

>>35041574
Damn, calm down.

>>35041543
Checking the episode guide, the armor needs a lot of Essence, and dead people can't make Essence of their own. Hyades get the needed Essence by draining all of the simulation bodies, while Mio's been prepared with Essence for the last six years. So not only is she free from needing a sudden sharp infusion, she also can sustain it herself.

>>35041544
By keeping her alive, I would think.

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>>35041300
>>35041319
>>35041337
>>35041404

> Lean a bit closer. "I'm not embarrased to hear you say it, but my school's totally going to be jealous that I'm with such a beautiful girl."
> "Lots of reasons. But what it comes down to is that I like you." Tilt her chin up and kiss her.

The soft, muted gasp that begins in the very core of her being, that builds into a pulse of heat beneath her skin-

This time, when her lips meet yours, the kiss is slower - Less heated, more heartfelt - as Mio's eyes half-close, a gentle murmur teased from her silky throat. The warm contact lingers, close enough to feel the blush to her cheeks; her hands coming up, lightly, to rest against your chest. It's a delicate, almost fleeting contact - a questing, an echo of before...

She draws back, with immense reluctance - A breathless, faintly scandalized:

"Anon-kun, not *here*-" as if only just aware of where she is...But that sweet, secret smile lingers, her hair shimmering in the fading light.

"See - I'm embarrassed all over again..." Mio says - her words belied by the simple joy in her voice, her hands at her sides again. "-when you say it like *that*-"

"But-"

"...It makes me really happy. Really, really happy..."

(Continued)

>>35041598
>By keeping her alive, I would think.
And thus I have lost any and all reason to care about romancing Mio.

>>35041598
>By keeping her alive, I would think.
She still has to fight inescapable fights.

Also, what is your intention for Cybele? Athame?
I will not support any route that causes unnecessary suffering on Cybele's side. She doesn't deserve it, especially after her sacrifice.

>>35041609
I'm sorry, we're you asking a serious question? Because I honestly wasn't sure if you were serious or shitposting.

>>35041648
Don't bother, it's really obvious that he's looking for any excuse to bitch and moan.

>>35041648
He pretty obviousy was asking how the fuck you expect Mio to handle something that basically amounts to betrayal.
Chalice Queen has a whole lot of responsibility. Among it, the need to kill players.

>>35041665
Just throw her into a Corrector hive. It worked for us.

>>35041683
>the more Joker likes you, the harsher he trains you
Haze will suddenly feel very happy that we only exploded his arm.

>>35041645
Depends entirely. Do we fight Bishamon or get Alura in melee range? They get the knife. If we somehow avoid them until we pull Hellebore's armor from the vault, then yes absolutely.

>>35041665
You know, I don't think she would. The Chalice Queen is the next step up from the handler class. I don't think the system is set up for them to come into a 1v1 battle. If anything it'd be like Pythia: summon a champion (Joker), provide significant support, reap most of the Essence.

>>35041726
>You know, I don't think she would. The Chalice Queen is the next step up from the handler class. I don't think the system is set up for them to come into a 1v1 battle. If anything it'd be like Pythia: summon a champion (Joker), provide significant support, reap most of the Essence.
She would still be the girlfriend of the most notorious murderer in the Red World.

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>>35041602

A burst of sound makes her start - Distant cheers, applause, from the Festival grounds. A cloud of balloons loft into the sky, like a flock of multicolored birds; Milling, swirling, ascending in a cascade of bright colors and silver strings.

She takes your hand in both of her own, with sudden animation - And Mio laughs, happy as a little girl.

"Come on~" she says, and her bright voice is an invitation - "Anon-kun, the Chapel's this way - I wanted to show it to you; just the two of us." A light tug coaxes you forward, like a child's game - Her slim fingers cool against yours, interwining, caressing, as her golden hair sways against her cheek in a most becoming gesture.

It's not far. The companionable silence - The pleasant discomfort of her touch - makes the brief journey along the winding marble path almost a formality; The small chapel's steeple looming above the hedge maze, like a spire.

The white marble path brings you right to the stately double-doors - It's a modest place, unpreposing, designed with the same European aesthetic as the rest of the school...But rather more recent. Some care has been taken to keep the grey stone unblemished; There's no name, just a simple cross-and-star at the arch.

"-This is one of the school's secrets," Mio says - Her voice a little hushed, now, her footfalls echoing against the brief flight of marble steps. There's a familiarity to her movement, as she sets a hand against the door; Despite it's size, it moves with no evident effort, swinging inwards without a sound...

"I've never seen anyone here befo-"

"Oh-"

You're not alone.

(Continued)

>>35041744
AND SHE DIES

>>35041458
>We do have to prepare her for tomorrow. I think I have an idea, if the I'm right about the suggestions OP's been dropping about her hairdec. A bit of secret Nihl charge and teaching her the right name and she's got a protector.

Well, keep in mind she's protected by correctors, and kraken controls correctors. It might not be enough

>>35041883
Hellebore made a distinction between Correctors and Cryptids when we talked to her. I really wish we'd had a bit longer in the Diadem, it could have explained so much.

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>>35041744

There are two people in the chapel - And that term is to be used loosely.

The first is Naoya Shiga, standing in profile. The late afternoon sunlight - golden rays, filtered through stained-glass windows - illuminates him. His expression is pensive, a little sad, his level gaze resting on the altarpiece; It's late in the day, but he looks as fresh as night frost.

The other is not a man at all.

There is a box - A great metal box with a sloped front - partly like a throne, and partly like an iron casket. Except - You can hear a low hum of internal systems as it turns, slowly - quite a odds with its vast weight, making nearly no sound at all.

"-And who might this be?"

It is the box that speaks, first. The voice is rather different from what you'd expect - Coming from a thing like that, it should be a tone-dead growl, a rasp. Instead...It's cultured, kindly - faintly crackly from static - tired, but well-bred. Familiar, somehow, and recently too...

"My apologies, Fuma-san." Naoya's wrong-footed, but he recovers quickly - There's a note of contrition to his voice, contrition and mild surprise. "They're friends of mine - Though I must say, I didn't expect to see them here." He gestures, to encompass the two of you.

"Mr. Sawamura, this is Mio Asagi-" His gaze moves to you. "...and this is Anon. I don't believe you've been introduced."

[ ] "...Who is this?"
[ ] "What is this?"
[ ] "What are you doing here?"
[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35041934
>"...Who is this?"
>"What are you doing here?"

>>35041934
>[ ] Free
"No, we haven't. I"m Anon-kun. Who's your friend?"

>>35041907
>>35041934
"The president of the Tokisaka Foundation? Then you're to thank for putting the festival on."
>[X] "What are you doing here?"

Wasn't her surname Saeki?

>>35041934
>Sawamura

.... where have we heard this name before. Hospital? Grave? Fuck i forget.

Fools to the rescue.
>> "Please welcome our sponsor; Mr. Fuma Sawamura, Advisor to the Tokisaka Foundation.
http://archive.moe/tg/thread/32522541/#32523755

Oh shit niggas. its the FOUNDER

>>35041981
Mikogami was the founder. This is his successor. ...Maybe in more than one way. Hm.

>>35041934
"If I'm not mistaken, you're Fuma Sawamura, the main sponsor behind this whole event."

>>35041980

(You're right - My apologies, that was an error.)

>>35041980
>>35041994
Why am I now thinking of Hargreave?
Does America have to handle a Ceph invasion and nanosuit operations while Japan has the Red World going on?

>>35042001
Oh good, so it's not brain problems. On my end. Sorry, OP.

Leave it; there's something funny about Naoya not knowing her real name.

>>35042009
They've probably got their own Red World, if [C] is still the major inspiration for the setting.

>>35042009
The Red World is a worldwide system. America deals with this shit too.

>>35042018
>They've probably got their own Red World, if [C] is still the major inspiration for the setting.
Yeah, but I was just interpolating from the existence of someone who's kept alive by a machine like that.

>>35042029
Now I really want to know what kind of players the Americans have.
...What if the American version is White and has the White Joker or something like that?

>>35042036

dat's racist.

>>35042029
iirc it's city-by-city, according to Trisagion's book.

>>35042036
We still don't know much about the Joker system at all. Could be that every Joker has a predefined role. Could be luck of the draw. Could be too that the Jokers are unique to this system. No way for us to know.

>>35042036
>America
>White
The White Joker would have to be from the last bastion of whiteness left, Australia.

>>35042040
>American version of Smilers is literally the Klu Klux Klan

>>35042062
>America has the Black Joker
>A sassy black woman who hunts down the Klan

...I shouldn't continue or I'll go against the current party line.

>>35042060
How would you even tell the Red World apart from the Outback?

Wait, I know, in the Red World only half the environments are actively trying to kill you.

>>35042055
>iirc it's city-by-city, according to Trisagion's book.
To be more accurate, the Red forms wherever a dense human population exists.

>>35042076
I would imagine the fact that you're a robot while in it would be a dead giveaway.

>>35042076
>Australian players go into the Red to relax

>>35042080
Been a while since I read the relevant part of the quest, wasn't there some shit about architecture specifically?

>>35042092
Maybe only the Japanese are robots.
The Germans are office utensils.
Russians are strong animals like bears.
Australians are deadly animals like scorpions.
Americans are humanoid, with diverse skin color and gender ratio and lots of guns. Their avatars are designed after concepts like vigilantism, taxes and anarchy.

>>35042107
I don't even remember getting that kind of infodump.
When did it happen? After the Trisagion encounter?

>>35042121
Make all those stereotypes considerably more offensive and you have /int/ - the quest.

>>35042107
I remember that too. Doesn't happen in every city, there's something to do with the flow of energy through it. Kinda like a neophyte's understanding of feng shui, I guess.

>>35042146
Think it might have been before then, around the time we first learned about the book.

>>35042146
Real early. Single digit threads. Comes up again in places with Argent and with Trisagion.

>>35042151
It's not offensive when you only see it through a local lense.
It only becomes offensive when the plot goes global and you suddenly realize that every single Red is actually just a huge blackface MMO.

>>35041994
>Mikogami was the founder. This is his successor. ...Maybe in more than one way. Hm.

Pazuzu at last?

So, research since we're closing in on the end of the thread. Is there an interest in the stuff we talked about at the start? We wanted to roboticize Correctors, get the Advent Caster and that leaves us with 20 charge. What do we spend it on?

>>35042237
Considering the NIHL, Pazuzu might have IRL powers.
We might be fucked in that case.

>>35042255
Of course he has IRL powers, he controls a multibillion ¥ corporation/foundation. He can screw the rules with money.

>>35042253
The remaining 20% can be used for the last Hellion models.

Also, why Advent Caster when we can get Dirac Transmitter 2?

>>35042269
I meant more along the line of reality fucking.

>>35041980
>>35041997

> "The president of the Tokisaka Foundation? Then you're to thank for putting the festival on."
> "If I'm not mistaken, you're Fuma Sawamura, the main sponsor behind this whole event."

A low, staticky chuckle issues from the box's speakers. The faceless surface is intimidating, but it is looking at you anyway - There are recesses that might be sensor pods or cameras, rotating slightly the way a man would turn his head.

"-You know me, then." the box replies. "Indeed I am - It is a pleasure to make your acquitance."

A thready breath parts Mio's lips.

"There's...a *person* in there?" she marvels, faintly - sounding fascinated and appalled at once. "That's..."

Naoya clears his throat, with a measured cough. "Mr. Sawamura suffers from a degenerative condition," he says, a note of apology in his voice.

"-A fact not commonly known," the box adds - and Naoya nods, deferring to the speaker. "As he's said. The life-support system gives him a measure of mobility, and sustains his vital processes..."

"...At the cost of being trapped in a box," the box finishes, dryly. Sarcasm doesn't translate well, over speakers - But Sawamura might be a master. "I am acutely aware of what I am, Shiga. And I have accepted that."

Naoya appears to consider this, for a moment - His expression accordingly contrite. Despite the unusual - almost surreal - form of the other speaker, they seem comfortable with one another: Not casual, but there's a kind of mutual familiarity between them.

A low, subliminal hum thrums in the aisle, as the box trundles forward. You're not sure what kind of propulsion system it uses, but it's a sophisticated one, almost silent.

"I'm aware that my appearance can be disconcerting," comes the voice again. "My apologies, young lady." That whirr again, of lenses refocusing. "-I didn't mean to startle you."

(Continued)

>>35042304
>A low, subliminal hum thrums in the aisle, as the box trundles forward. You're not sure what kind of propulsion system it uses, but it's a sophisticated one, almost silent.

Yup, this i where the cradles came from

>>35042283
Stealth codeburts, ordering Hellions, and the magic words most basic configuration.

>>35042283
It's a truism, but the rich really do live in different worlds. I mean, this guy's in a mobile coffin-throne.

>>35042319
>ordering Hellions
But wouldn't Hellion AI then make more sense than the robot correctors?

>>35042304
Urge... to... enter red... intensifies....

We might have found our Zuzu and our Kraken.

>>35042304
This seems so high-tech that it might as well be based on Red World tech.

>>35042332
Stay on this side. Pazuzu isn't a champion, remember?

>>35042326
Not necessarily, because this also works as a form of resource denial.

>>35042349
We should use it on Kraken's horse if we get the chance.

>>35042332
He's polite for now. Let's see what info he has.

>>35042359
....How about Kraken himself? They're probably lobotomized in the process.

>>35042283
>The remaining 20% can be used for the last Hellion models.
All right, which one? There's two left, the Destroyers and the Tempests.

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>>35042442
We should unlock the most trustworthy class first.
Also, we should probably start producing some hardshells.

"No-" Mio's voice is hushed; "It's just-"

She reaches out. Her hand rests lightly on the sloped front of the dark metal.

"...I'm sorry," she says. Her voice wavers, and you can hear the note of instinctive pity in it - Her expression downcast. "I didn't know-"

There's a pause, a pause that could mean anything. But then comes the faint whirr of servoes, an a sound that might be a chuckle.

"-So this is the girl, Shiga." the box's kindly voice - if anything - sounds almost fond; A kind of fond but exhausted amusement, an indulgent father with a favorite son. "I believe I understand, now."

Naoya - he actually looks embarrassed, for a moment. But pleasantly so.

Mio looks up, at that - a little puzzled, her head canting slightly to the side.

"What do yo-"

"Just a private jest, young lady," the box says. "-Pay it no mind."

"I am confident that Shiga will tell you - In his own time."

> [X] "What are you doing here?"

"Paying our respects." Naoya's voice is low, almost reverent. "It's been a while since our last visit." He looks away. "-And I'm sorry for that."

"It is the nature of things," the box agrees. "It was my intention to arrange a private visit, but..." If it had hands, it would gesture. "-this seemed most expedient."

(Continued)

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>>35042483
NTR is great when you're the one doing the NTRing.

>>35042463
Best and most trustworthy.

>>35042494
They're talking about sticking someone (probably Kotone) in her body.

>>35042483

"Even now, I continue to believe-"

And then awful, strangled sounds come over the speakers. Thick, clotted - An eruption of noise so abrupt, so jarring, Mio flinches away - Backing up so suddenly, she nearly collides with you.

"Is he...Is he all right?" she says, alarmed - But Naoya's already on one knee, moving with an ease borne of long practice. There's a panel on the side of the box, one that he manipulates - Slowly, the terrible sounds ease. A rasp returns in its absence.

From the box:

"Shiga - How long...?"

"-Just a spasm," he says. "No change - But don't exert yourself."

"Very well." For long moments, the only sound in the chapel is the rasping surrusation of Sawamura's faltering breath, until it eases to something approaching normal.

Then, in the leaden tones of true exhaustion:

"-Anon. Mio." the box's voice is hoarse, just this side of audible. "...Are you enjoying the Festival?"

[ ] Free

YOU HAVE CONTROL

>>35042551
Then we'll NTR Mio and the Black Joker.

>>35042562
>[ ] Free

".... I think i enjoy your company more than the festival. Wanna go?"

>>35041744
>"-This is one of the school's secrets," Mio says - Her voice a little hushed, now, her footfalls echoing against the brief flight of marble steps. There's a familiarity to her movement, as she sets a hand against the door; Despite it's size, it moves with no evident effort, swinging inwards without a sound...

May as well go where she wanted to show us.

>>35042562
"Didn't you have something you wanted to show me?"

>>35042562
"I'm sure this event is something I'll remember fondly for the rest of my life."

>>35042562

>>35042562
>[ ] Free
Yeah, lets bust this joint, find someplace private, and let her talk - she's CLEARLY trying to hold something/pretend everything's alright, but her feelings of impending doom that she talked about last thread are obviously getting worse - OR everyone's on autopilot, and we're seeing this side of megeara taking a bite out of pazuzu.

Nihl spheres are tricky, after all, and he DID get the tape recorder back - which allows stealth operations in the red.

>>35042562
>"...Are you enjoying the Festival?"
"The stands are rather... Unique.
We really have some interesting personalities among the students."

>>35042562
"I could do without a lot of the behind the scenes stuff. But I like most of the people I've met, and it's a nice reminder of the way things should be. It's been good." Catch Mio's hand.

File: abandon thread 4 ryouma.gif (2.55 MB, 350x197)

2.55 MB GIF

>>35042648
Watashiwa, i'm leaving you in charge of executing your idea of Giving Mio Control so she doesn't accidentally the whole world.

Thread, this is your reminder that
> Naoya and Sawamura are Kraken and Pazuzu
> They plan on kidnapping and ritually sacrificing mio and her years of accumulated essence to ruin the world
> They're doing it tomorrow, probably in the middle of the night, with a mercenary/gangster kidnapping by our favorite red world bomberman
> Mio has about 8 hours to live
> Smilers are literally going to cover the world in Black Joker Goo, which infects the real side when The Veil is down
>Argent still thinks his plan to restore the Veil is going to work after this happens
> Its also likely we will be involved in the final hyades championship match, while we aren't there to escort mio. Need to get the tristars to run damage control.

Stop being jealous kotonofags who want her to die, and start doing damage control.

Let mio bring shit up, look at the notebook, and ask us questions about shit - and don't just brush her off.

I cannot think of a better time to do this, when she's scared shitless about mysterious church encounters, having a sense of doom about the world ending, and at the culmination of the date.

It was nice, but we need to get our Serious Business Hat on.

Also don't forget about doing things like pre-emptive strikes on enfer, exec_rending the apocalypse plan from people, the Secret Gift from the shootout last thread, or the possibility of just straight up punking pazuzu right now - if we can snag the nihl spere and run away, we'll be in a place to help derail their shit.

>>35042584

> ".... I think i enjoy your company more than the festival. Wanna go?"

Naoya closes his eyes, for a moment. You get the feeling that he's trying - with an act of supreme will - not to sigh.

A weak chuckle issues from the box's innards. "Perhaps another time," it answers.

>>35042607
>>35042636

"Good. That is...good."

The voice is slower, now. Drifting, slipping into an exhausted slumber.

>>35042648

> Catch Mio's hand.

Mio stiffens - She tenses, slightly, her lips shaping an 'O' of surprise; there's something startled, almost guilty, in her expression as she glances sharply to the side-

"Shiga...you have - quite a trial...ahead..."

Then silence. The dopplering machine sound builds, as - soundlessly, and without apparent effort - the casket begins to move. It slides forward, across the ground - as serenely as a skater across ice, towards the doors.

Without haste, Naoya follows - There might be the slightest hesitancy to his stride, but he keeps pace with the retreating coffin smoothly, without haste. You detect the faintest hint of an expression, perhaps a twitch of his lips...

-Mio's hand slips from yours. She colors, again, as he turns.

"Saeki-chan," Naoya says, almost formally. Then: "-Anon."

"I'll see you again tomorrow."

Then he's gone, the doors swinging open - close - silently behind him. The pause lingers, motes of dust dancing in the still air-

"Look," Mio says - Her voice is low, hushed. "Anon-kun, *look*-"

And as the sun dips below the horizon, as the last rays of light flood through the stained-glass of the windows, the view beyond turns red...

As for a single, perfect moment - Briefly glimpsed, like a fantastic and fading memory beyond the confines of the chapel - you see the alien spires of Arcadia.

JOKER QUEST

EPISODE 107

TO BE CONTINUED

>>35042839

(Gentlemen; My sincerest apologies, but it's extremely late on my end. I'd love to continue, but the quality of my writing would likely suffer beyond this point.

Before I turn in for the night, is there a consensus as to research?)

>>35042562>>35042839
>>35042851


Quick question for next time, JQOP: Can we get artifact modules for the abruption jets and/or lucifer bits? A hellion AI module for those would own - unless its built in already.

Also would it be possible to get a.... Standby Mode for the lucifer bits? Where they consume less meter (maybe half?) but don't turn off or lose charge?

>>35042851
>Before I turn in for the night, is there a consensus as to research?)
One Hellion research - I think Destroyers was the idea.
As well as the Advent Caster and a Hollow Sun upgrade.
I was in favor of the firmware, but the others wanted the corrector collection thing.

>>35042851
Assimilation Facility, and either the Advent Caster or the Firmware Upgrade (can we rename this the Platinum Upgrade? Getting NV vibes). And then the Mastemas, I think.

>>35042839

Can you clarify the Teleport Homer in the hollow sun page?

Can we summon a hellion for 40% cost NOW? Or do we have to pay that to unlock the ability to use it later?

Do the 'bigger' hellion summon upgrades include the lesser one?
Like, would getting the 50% chayot-class summon also include the smaller hellion types of, Cherubim, Virtue, and Basic?

>>35042899
The price you see in the HS guide is the price to modify the Homer. So it's 40% HS charge for a basic model, and 45 for a Virtue.

The price in Cobalt is unlisted.

>>35042839

Also I kind of want the guardian AI's for our vehicles, but it seems like something we should buy once, and be able to copy to other vehicles/drones - or at least copy cheaper.

>>35042935
That's really unfortunate. I was hoping it'd just be based on the 'size' of the wormhole to deploy it.

>>35042865

> Also would it be possible to get a.... Standby Mode for the Lucifer bits? Where they consume less meter (maybe half?) but don't turn off or lose charge?

(Recall them to your armor, when they're primed. Beyond the initial investment, they don't use Meter than way. Though they do lose charge when not being fired, back to Level 2.)

>>35042899

(Pay for it. And no, each class has to be purchased individually.)

>>35042891

HOLLOW SUN: 0.6%

> [X] ASSIMILATION FACILITY
> [X] FIRMWARE UPGRADE
> [X] RESEARCH: SUPERHEAVY CHASSIS

(That should be everything. Good night and God bless, gentlemen. I hope to see you again soon.)

>>35042851
>Before I turn in for the night, is there a consensus as to research?)

I want it all, JQOP. The tasty facilities, the awesome vehicles, all the guns we'll never get to use, pimped out upgrades. Alas, good night.

>>35042965
>(Recall them to your armor, when they're primed. Beyond the initial investment, they don't use Meter than way. Though they do lose charge when not being fired, back to Level 2.)

Am I reading this right in that.... a lucifer bit takes 4% to charge up, and 4% the next turn when it reaches level 2 and start firing?
And if boosted, charges faster? So we could spend 8%(ish) to charge it to 2 and launch in one turn?

>>35042989

It also makes the bits more powerful. There's this magma effect on them if Cobalt Boosted.

>>35042989

(Yes, effectively.)

Night OP, thanks for running.

>>35042960
Notice how the vehicle upgrades are separate from other vehicles, even when identical? For the Raptor and Ophanim, they're Foundry upgrades, which means the Hollow Sun produces a specific modification for the vehicle on the spot. The Red Comet is on a completely different level. It gets full research upgrades which cost less only because they have a time component.

For the AIs at least, it's a completely different system for each vehicle, with different controls, capabilities and purpose. Creating an set of protocols for one doesn't do much to prepare you to do the same for the others.

>>35042989
What would happen is we pay Cobalt booster IN ADDITION to the meter cost to increase the charge speed. I don't think it lets us skip the no-firing phase, but it might let the bits go from activated to full power in two turns rather than three.

>>35043118

(To clarify, the time it takes to charge can vary, depending on conditions. You spend 4% for each round they're active.

It's not 8% to Level 2 - Unless you're relying solely on Cobalt Booster - but it'd be 4% Meter, 4% Cobalt Booster for each turn spent charging or active.)

>>35043090
Not... necessarily. Fire is an energy type of its own, with low armor penetration. Enfer would laugh at the boosted Lucifer Bits, but the unboosted ones would threaten him.

>>35043249
A good point. Although Enfer probably knoes how to deal with the Lucifer Bits quickly.

I wonder what caused the new upgrade options.
Neutronium mine is obvious, but are the others the result of the Throne research?
Should we have gone for the Thrones from the get-go?

>>35043638
Let's not spend too much effort on hindsight, and focus on the coming Apocalypse. We got the research eventually, and that may be what matters.

>ZINNIA:

>A glass flower of surpassing beauty and craftsmanship, this complex crystal bloom - milky-white at the petals - is gradually turning a pale violet.

So, the name apparently doesn't have much meaning.
I wonder if this thing works like the crystal trap and brings us into the Red once it's fully violet.
It might activate on Mio right when she's supposed to be snatched away.

>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinnia

>>35043772
It's supposed to go to Cybele, so I doubt it.

>>35044241
Wishful thinking would be that it could bring Cybele into the Real.

>>35043772

In the language of flowers, it could mean 'Lasting Affection' or 'Goodness'.

>>35044262

Sure, because that would be a great outcome. Let's give the crazy girl a way into our world, that's going to work out well for everyone. It's about 50-50 whether she murders Mio or starts eating souls.

>>35044939
>Let's give the crazy girl a way into our world, that's going to work out well for everyone

>let's shit on the person who got trapped in total isolation through no fault of her own
Do you also propose prosecuting victims of Stockholm's if they get attached to their hostage takers?

>>35045215
To be fair, it's been flat out stated that helping Cybele leads to some very serious consequences.

>>35045215

If they help their captors commit crimes, yes.

>>35047320
And if they protect their captor with deadly force?

>>35047552

It's another kind of crime, but it's still a crime. In all fairness, pretty much every Player has done horribly reprehensible things.

>>35047608
That's why I'm annoyed that everyone is blaming Cybele. She isn't exactly in control of her situation.

>>35048266
It's because we don't want her eating all the students, which will happen if we help her win the tournament.

>>35039055
Fooking brutal m8 It's Ogre has been going on a rampage

Im Scared

So will we ever upgrade the Cherubim? There's a lot of guns that could be slapped on to It that would probably absolutely fuck something's day up to next week

>>35049017
It makes me wonder, are ALL of the Hyades champions physically present at the festival? Has nobody noticed numerous people just mysteriously dying in the middle of the events?

>>35049136

Someone's pointed out that the deaths are simply not happening on the grounds. It seems not all the champions have been called, or Kraken would be here too.

Is Naoya Kraken? I highly doubt so, for some reason. His personality doesn't match at all.

>>35049136
They probably aren't all here maybe a small minority otherwise this would be shitty festival with the constant "accident" related deaths

ORRR everybody is too busy eating cotton candy and having fun to give a fuck

>>35049182
Didn't we meet Kracken in a club? Or am I insane.

I think Naoya might be that guy who's been looking for us in the Red

>>35049231

That guy is lame. He couldn't even beat Iron Ogre.

>>35049231
The Iron Ogre prologue in this thread seems to imply that guy got the shit killed out of him.

>>35049205
>ORRR everybody is too busy eating cotton candy and having fun to give a fuck

"Hey, doesn't this cotton candy taste kinda... coppery?"

>>35049080
I want to, especially since it seems that they're not handheld, meaning every weapon we give them can be used simultaneously. AND on top of thay there's the bit about adapting Cherub weapons for general use...

>>35049136
Kraken isn't. We also know that Alura is cooking up something nasty. Combine with the lack of deaths and you get awful thoughts.

>>35049272

That was Calcite Arrow. This guy is most likely a Hyades champion. Calcite seems to be looking for payback for Bardiel, of all people.

We already know that Naoya isn't a player, however.

>>35049244
To be fair Ogrebro ain't kill him neither which is odd
Also
>Implying anything can stop the unstoppable force of Its Ogre

>>35049317
I know. Considering the fact that Iron Ogre is still alive means that Calcite Arrow is most likely dead.

>>35049347

Arrow is alive. He was last seen fighting Volt Regios.

>>35049372
Man being Volt is suffering all he wants to do is chill and kill monsters with his bros and us.

Instead he gets lone hunts and an obsessive giant asshole

>>35049372
There's something going on there. When we first saw Arrow he was a stone cold sniper, not a howling avenger. And Iron Ogre is all about the taunting, but here he didn't say a word. Something is wrong here.

>>35049372
Damn, I got Volt and Ogre confused. I always picture them both as big bruisers.

>>35049469

Volt is the bruiser of the Tri-Stars. Bishamon is the all-rounder, and Tyrian is the weedy science guy who isn't good in a fight. Ogre seems to have this very brutal intelligence when it comes to leading.

>>35049466
>Ogre

He's probably really pissed off about something so the Time for games is Ogre.jpg

>Arrow
His husbando was killed