You awake to the sound of sizzling bacon echoing out from the kitchen, it's delicious, fried smell rousing you from your slumber. You stretch out, arms reaching around where Elizabeth should be. It takes a moment to register, but you finally realize that Elizabeth is not next to you. You slowly lumber out of bed, expecting it to be Liz the one cooking breakfast. Instead, you take the dozen steps from the bedroom to the kitchen to see it is Jemma cooking, as a plate of freshly cooked scrambled eggs rests next to the stove, a cup of hot coffee next to it, as she begins to flip an omelet.

"... Jemma?"

"Michael!" She glances over at you, eyes going wide as the omelet flips up into the air. She barely reacts in time to catch the fried egg, cheeks flushing red. "Good God, put some clothes on!"

You glance down, brain only now replaying the previous days events out in your head, realizing you are only in your black silk boxers with Little Mac standing at attention.

"I could stand to see a bit more," Sarah says from behind you, a piece of bacon entering her mouth, eyes giving you a thorough look over.

"Sarah!"

"What? Don't tell me you don't want what he's rocking," she replies mid chew.

... Is she wearing one of your suits? Yeah, she is. Just what the hell happened while you were asleep?

> Flex/show off a bit
> Get dressed
> Flirt
> Reveal more
> Where's Liz?
> Other

>>37678728
>Flex/show off a bit
> Get dressed

File: mage quest resource document-1.pdf (4.31 MB, PDF)

4.31 MB PDF

> Meta Post

> Previous Quest: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/37531520/
> Quest Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=MtA%20Quest
> QM Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MageQM
> Previous Q&A Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/36531585/
> ask.fm link: http://ask.fm/MageQM

Resource document has been updated, Michael currently has 2 exp left over.

And no, that's not a typo/mistake on Liz's sheet.

>>37678728
> Flex/show off a bit
> Get dressed

>>37678794
>And no, that's not a typo/mistake on Liz's sheet.
she has time 6 now? That explains why she's not here right now, you need to do some spiritual journey thingy for that IIRC.

>>37678728
> Get dressed
> Where's Liz?

>>37678728
Huh, didn't expect to see this; not that I mind.

And of course, imma gonna have to go with
>flirt

>>37678843
You're supposed to do it BEFORE you become an archmaster. And the process involves burning willpower dots; I think she still have all of hers.

Also, half of the group here are now archmasters. This is a tad ridiculous.

>>37679164
>Also, half of the group here are now archmasters. This is a tad ridiculous.
our enemies seem to be archmasters, too.

>>37679208
I can't wait until we become archmasters too and start going on bullshit Exalted adventures.

>>37679164
To be fair, Elizabeth has been sitting on a bunch of exp for a while now, and in-game she's been debating on whether or not the risk of going for Archmaster was worth it.

With Tsukuyomi back in the picture however, it forced her hand that the benefits outweigh the risks.

Also, writing.

You can't help but flex, showing off your toned muscles and lean figure, barely a trace of fat on you. Jemma blushes even harder, and Sarah just drinks it all in.

"W... Will you PLEASE put some clothes on," Jemma stutters out, eyes barely trying to play at focusing on her omelet and not on you.

"Ok, ok, just teasing you guys." You head back into the bedroom and put on a loose t-shirt and some workout pants before heading back out, grabbing a plate to throw some scrambled eggs onto.

"Will Liz be joining us for breakfast," Sarah asks, her piercing gaze trying to burn the image of your nearly nude body into her mind as you pour yourself a cup of coffee.

"I thought she was the one who started breakfast, not you guys..." You look around, only now realizing that Liz is not anywhere in the room. Panic begins to set in as Sarah's eyes flash white, one hand waving around tedrils of Magic as the other continues to eat the bacon.

"She left the apartment 3 hours ago of her own free will," Sarah says, tendrils fading away.

"Where would she go?"

As if to answer you, a phone begins to ring. You almost go to reach for the main landline, before realizing that the ring tone is different. Realization dawns on you as you scurry back to your office, as the phone continues to ring. You click accept on the screen, shoving the phone up to your ear.

"Where's Liz," escapes from your lips before the person on the other end can even speak.

"At her Library," the robotic voice replies, as you can hear the smirk on the person's face.

"That's impossible, Tsukuyomi has the Library."

"Not THE Library, HER Library." The phone vibrates as the notification of a text message being received echoes in your ear. You look at the message, it giving an address. "Go to her, she is expecting you." At that, the line clicks dead.

"Michael?" You turn around, seeing Jemma standing in the doorway. "What's wrong?"

> I'm going after Liz, alone
> Liz is an idiot
> Liz is at Her Library
> Other

>>37679269
Hmm, interested in how she explains it to us...also for maximum wham value maybe you should have held off on that hint until in comes up in-game, then when we check her sheet we can see it was there all along. Oh well.

Don't forget the flirt.

>>37679314
>Liz is at Her Library
Jem should know what this means

>>37679314
>Liz is at Her Library

> I'm going after Liz, alone

>>37679314
> Liz is at Her Library and that fucking all-knowing archmaster is on the loose again

>>37679325
I thought about not saying anything until it came up in-quest, but didn't want to have people read it, go, "wtf Liz's sheet bugged out" and me having to go, "uhh.... yeah... it bugged out.... heh heh heh..."

>>37679430
so, what can 6 dots in something do?

>>37679457
In oWoD at least, 6 dots was when your broken, god-like powers started in just about every splat.

>>37679457
That I will not comment on until it comes up in the quest. But consider this anon: at Time 5, she can briefly pause Time itself. Time 6 lets her do even more fiddling with Time.

>>37679314
> I'm going after Liz, alone

>>37679486
can she travel back in time?

>>37679507
Yes. At the speed of regular time.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZknFhQftrug

>>37679507
With time 5 you basically already have savestates.

Why does nobody wants to summon a dragon? Come on, that would be fun.

Writing.

"Elizabeth's at Her Library," you mutter out as you set the phone back down on your desk. It never seems to run out of power, no matter how long you leave it on.

"What? Why would she go back to the Library after Tsukuyomi took it from her!? That's suicide!" She goes to leave, but you grab her.

"No, she's at HER Library, not THE Library." You let go of Jemma and grab your wallet and keys, heading into the bedroom to slip on a pair of running shoes. "I'm going after her, alone."

"Michael, no, you can't. Let us help." She goes to follow you but you turn and stop her.

"Jemma, please. I can't explain everything right now, but there's this fucking all-knowing Archmaster that's been calling us ever since I Awoke, offering tidbits of information and remarks of congradulation after everything we've done." You turn the door handle and step out into the hallway as Sarah looks on in mind curiousity. "When we get back, I'll explain everything."

Jemma stands there for a moment before acquiescing. "Everything Michael. Friends don't keep secrets from each other."

Now there's a word you never expected her to say. She's always been a guarded person, locking herself away from anyone, not wanting to be harmed again after how she betrayed Sarah. Now, she thinks you're friends...?

"We're not friends, Jemma." You look back at her as she gives you a questioning stare. "We're family." Before she can even respond you sprint away, chasing after the woman you love.

> [1/2]

> [2/2]

You click the engine off outside the small house, a good hour long drive north of the city proper. It's in a small, secluded area with many run-down houses dotting the street, most with 'For Sale' signs posted outside them. You slowly walk up the cracked pathway, hand gripping the rusted door handle of the thick, paint-chipped door. It clicks open, the loud creak of old wood filling the rooms inside.

"Hello Michael," Elizabeth says from inside, out of view as the pulled curtains block almost every ray out the mid-morning light from outside.

> Are you ok?
> What were you thinking, going out alone!
> What is this place?
> Other

>>37679811
>> Are you ok?

>>37679797
Oh shit I just realized, the voice in the phone is Liz traveling back in time/sending messages back.

>>37679811
> Are you ok?
> What were you thinking, going out alone!

File: JFJ4S.gif (138 KB, 584x247)

138 KB GIF

>>37679822
FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU~

>>37679811
>Are you ok?

>>37679811
>Elizabeth says from inside, out of view as the pulled curtains block almost every ray out the mid-morning light from outside.
Let's not do anything hasty and be sure that it's really her and not an eldritch horror with her voice.

I really wish I hadn't voted to come alone now.

Suddenly, a thought: where's Zzzzzz'kula, or whatever her name is? Where's the stone? Did we give it to some kind of political mage party? Was it the Council?

>>37679926
The stone was given to the Thyrsus Mages you rescued, and that's all you know of it. Michael does not know where it is now, who possesses it, or if Zz'kula is banished, cleansed, or freed.

Writing.

>>37679457
Hang on, I'm digging up my copy of Imperial Mysteries

File: archmaster_1.png (274 KB, 694x917)

274 KB PNG

>>37679457
>>37679507
>>37680265

Pulled all relevant text

File: archmaster_2.png (131 KB, 356x866)

131 KB PNG

>>37680328

File: archmaster_3.png (11 KB, 355x79)

11 KB PNG

>>37680346

File: archmaster_4.png (351 KB, 734x925)

351 KB PNG

>>37680362
Hope this clears it up a little.

You turn on your Spirit Sight, as even if you can't see her in this dim light, you can still see her soul to make sure it's still her and not someone or something else. And indeed, as you enter the house and turn left into the living room, you confirm it is Elizabeth standing there, her multicolored soul twinkling brightly at you. In fact, it seems even brighter than before...

"Are you ok," you ask her, slowly walking up to her.

"I'm sorry for making you worry," she says, stepping forward and hugging you, her raven black hair getting into your mouth. "But this was something I needed to do alone." Wait... Raven black hair? You reach up and grab onto it, and indeed it is hers, not a wig or dyed. She looks over, touching it herself. "Interesting... I haven't had this hair color since I was four..."

"What were you thinking, going out alone! You know Tsukuyomi is after you, not to mention Lord knows how many other Mages!"

"I'm sorry, but I needed to do this." She pulls away slightly, looking up at you with her sapphire blue eyes. "You remember how I told you Archmasters are made?"

"Yeah, they cross the Abyss a second time, reaching a new level of mastery over their Craft and possibly even Sign themselves to a new Tower..." Realization dawns as she nods her head.

> [1/2]

> [2/2]

"I was so afraid Michael... Afraid of losing you, of losing myself to this power. I've seen what it does to people; how it corrupts them, makes them lose sight of the people and things they hold most dear. But with Tsukuyomi's return, it made me realize something." She reaches up with her hands, pulling your head down slightly to hers. "I've always been afraid. Ever since I Awoke all those years ago, I've been afraid of this power. But you have always done what is right, to the best of your ability. You've faced things, creatures and spirits and Death itself, and you don't let fear control your life. You push onward, always looking forward, hitting your limits, and breaking past them at every turn." She kisses you deeply, as you feel the tears stream down her face. "I won't let fear rule my life anymore."

You hold onto her tight, kissing her again, as your souls dance together in an unsung melody, all sense of time leaving you, as you wish this moment could last forever. But all too soon she breaks the kiss, pulling back and letting go of you.

"I crossed over again, so I could stop running from my fear and face it head on like you. Thank you, Michael, for being my guiding light." She sniffles a bit, wiping the tear streaks off her face. "Now, lets go deal with Tsukuyomi."

"Ok, but how?"

"By doing what you do best," she grins back at you, her clenched fist slamming into her open palm. "Let's beat some sense into her."

> Ok, but how?
> We're gonna need more people to help out with that
> Are you sure? Sounds suicidal to me...
> Our Good Samaritan called, led me to you
> Other

>>37680451
>> Our Good Samaritan called, led me to you

>>37680431
>We're gonna need more people to help out with that
Jemma and Sarah will probably help. Having a second archmaster should help a lot.

>>37680451
> Are you sure? Sounds suicidal to me...
> Our Good Samaritan called, led me to you
> We're gonna need more people to help out with that

>>37680451
This>>37680486

>>37680451
Let's get more people.

Also:
"Did you by any chance use your time magic to leave all those recording on the phone? Because there's another one."

>>37680543
>"Did you by any chance use your time magic to leave all those recording on the phone? Because there's another one."
she probably didn't yet

>>37680551
Well, she could look forward in her own future, right? It may be very important if it was really she who left all those recordings. It's not like it's some act of hubris, she'll just look up that one particular thing.

>>37680593
we don't need to remind her, we already got the message which means she's going to send the message in the future no matter what we do.

>>37680733
That's... reasonable, I guess. Though wouldn't asking her disrupt this timeline and create a new one?

Writing.

"Well, if you think we can pull it off, ok. But let's get some more people first; pretty sure Jemma and Sarah will tag along for this too," you say to her as she grabs onto your hand.

"Wait. Before we go, there's something I need to show you." At that, she pulls you along down some stairs into the basement, her free hand guiding a flashlight she brought along with her in her purse. She reaches up and pulls on a dangling string, and slowly a yellow bulb clicks to life, revealing a small study with about 100 books scattered about on several desks, tables, and bookshelves. "Before I took possession of the Library in the city, this was where I did all my research on the various Paths and Towers. Now, most of this research is a bit outdated, but..." She flips through some of the books, dust clouds billowing out from around her. "Ahh, here." She hands you a rather dusty book, finger pointing to a particular page contained in the book. "I'd theorized that there were not 5 Paths, but rather 45 Paths, as that is how many permeatations and combinations you can have with the 10 Arcanum."

You read the section, recognizing her handwritting immediately. It details more about how certain Paths are more likely than another, as the 5 main Paths seem to relate in some fashion to the person's personality and core belief system. However, certain other ideals might also contain new, hidden Paths for other potential Mages to walk. One of the more likely ones she theorized are so called 'holy warriors,' ones who have a strong moral, legal, or personal code of conduct and are willing to fight and defend those beliefs and the right for people to believe in whatever they desire.

"That's why you're special, Michael; your Path confirms my theory. There aren't just 5 Paths, there's more that lie somewhere in the Supernal Realm, waiting for those special few who can Awaken and answer their Call to Action."

> Why me?
> How big of a deal is this?
> Let's focus on Tsukuyomi
> Other

>>37681100
>Why me?

>>37681100
> Why me?
> How big of a deal is this?

>>37681100
Yep, that's us, paladins.

>"What else can you tell me about my tower?"

Writing.

"But why me?" You're almost surprised those words escaped from your mouth, but that thought's been crawling about in your mind for some time now. "I never asked to be a Mage... I just wanted to do the right thing."

"And your soul knew that you couldn't do the right thing without having access to the Supernal Realm." She gently holds onto your hand as you slam the book shut. "You are a just man, Michael Santos. You know when to spare the rod, and when to lash out with it. You've saved me, brought a rogue Mage to justice, saved the world and Sarah's soul. Now you have the opportunity to help me right my wrongs, and even deliver justice to me if you deem fit. I have faith that you'll do the right thing."

Faith... That word again. It brings forth images of Christ on the Cross, the Holy Trinity, and all that balogna you were taught as a kid. You thought the real world stomped out all your faith in Man, instead you focused on ensuring Justice was delivered to those who deserved it. You worked hard for it, studied law, even wanted to be a District Attourney... But then you met her, and realized that justice isn't just about the rulings in the courtroom. It's the little things that happen everyday. People are wronged in one fashion or another, but you could help them out in some way, to make their lives better, and restore their Faith in humanity.

> [1/2]

> [2/2]

You grin, realizing only now how that sounds like something a Paladin would do. You'd given D&D a try in college, but never could wrap your head around the rules of the system. But the idea of a man who was given divine blessings to go forth and do Good in the land stirred forth that desire for justice in you.

"Thanks, hun." you give her a quick kiss on the lips, handing the book back to her. "I have to imagine that this revelation is a pretty big deal."

"It would debunk pretty much every major belief in the Paths that Mages have today. For Tsukuyomi, that should be something that any true Free Council member would want the other Orders to know. But she went to kill you first, and not me... Why?"

> What if she's not Free Council anymore?
> Maybe because I tried to knock her block off?
> Other

>>37681760
>What if she's not Free Council anymore?

That'd be my guess anyway. Trucking with vampires, creating titles within her Assembly, passing down instruction instead of openning the floor to debate. Heirarchy Strengthens The Lie, at least as far as the Free Council are concerned.

Though, honestly, I can't say I condone Liz's actions m'self.

>>37681760
Maybe she is the demons? Maybe she wants all the power for herself? Maybe she's in that secret group who want to understand the workings of the Awakening process and force it upon the world? Or maybe she's not in the Free Council anymore.

Actually, can't Liz just call someone there and check it? You know, like the police officer's badge number. Also, what are Tsukuyomi's arcana? She was Liz's mentor after all, she must know at least some of them.

>>37681760
> What if she's not Free Council anymore?
Liz DID mention Tsukiyomi and the others were starting to stray from their original path pretty harshly.

>>37681760

It is the council that's looking for Liz, iirc, so she must still have some influence over them if she's not a member.

>>37682081
It may not have been an overt change. And really, whether or not she was in good with the higher ups at the time, the Council can't very well let someone bump off esteemed members and take one of their Lore Houses without reprisal.

Tsukiyomi wasn't the only one Liz attacked, just the only one to survive (somehow).

>>37681760
>What if she's not Free Council anymore?

Writing.

"Hmm... Well, what if she's not Free Council any more?"

"What're you talking about? She can't just take a Mage's Library - even an old Lore House like the one I had control over - without their approval." She sets the book back down, motioning for you to walk up the stairs with her.

"I dunno, I thought all the Mages were pretty chill with each other, even if they had different opinions of how to go about with keeping themselves in power." You bump into the back of Elizabeth, your face burying itself into her butt. "Hey!" You'll save that action for later.

"They're Seers... They're Seers!" She turns around, hands grasping your head and giving you a big, wet kiss on your forehead. "Of course! How could I have been so stupid!?" She lambers up the stairs, old wood creaking under her hurried footsteps, as you scramble up after her.

"What're Seers? Liz?" She pulls you out onto the cracked pathway, locking the door behind you.

"They're Seers Michael!" She starts twirling around, her new, raven black hair twirling with her. "Oh God, we might just get out of this alive yet!" She hurries over to your car. "Come on, we've got no time to waste!"

At that, you just wave your arms about in frustration, hands slapping your sides. "What're Seers!?" You hurry over, hopping into the driver's side and starting up the car. You pull out onto the road as Liz begins to fiddle with her phone.

"There's always been rumors of a group of people who actively DIDN'T want to help Sleepers Awaken to the Supernal Realm, as more people with our Power could threaten their leaders who reside in the Supernal Realm. The closest analogy would be something like a mindless zealot, who follows the orders of their leader in hopes of being rewarded with some great boon, even if they have no reason to do so."

> [1/2]

> [2/2]

"So... They're brainwashed?"

"No, they do this of their own free will. Supposedly these Seers of the Throne are insanely good at working their way into the various Orders, trying to corrupt them from within and convert more followers over to their side. If there's one thing that all the Orders would hate, it's the revelation of a Seer in their midst."

> Ok, so how do we turn this to our advantage?
> So... She's a Seer, do we just call the Veil on her?
> Other

>>37682891
> Ok, so how do we turn this to our advantage?

> Ok, so how do we turn this to our advantage?

>>37682891
>Ok, let's just call the Council and they'll handle her

>>37682891
>Ok, so how do we turn this to our advantage?

Writing.

"Ok, so how do we turn this to our advantage?" You begin heading back into the city, hoping to make it back in time for lunch as your stomach grumbles, as you barely had more than two bites of the scrambled eggs before leaving after Liz.

"Well, supposedly the Seers have an item called the Profane Urim, which lets them take control of particularly weak-willed humans and control them from far away in the safety of their pylons." She starts fiddling with her phone, sending a message to someone.

"Pylons?"

"Their word for a place that they can call a base of operations. Sort of like a secret lair."

"No moon bases I hope," you grin to her. At that, she shrugs. "... Seriously? They could have a literal moon base? How're we supposed to get up there?"

"One thing at a time, let's just get home for now." She looks down at her phone as it vibrates upon receiving a message. She reads it once over, a sly smile creeping up her face. "So Jemma says you accidentally showed off Little Mac to her and Sarah?"

"I'd rather not talk about it," you mutter back to her, face turning red. "I forgot they were there, and thought you were making breakfast."

"Oh, and you were going to surprise me with some morning wood?" Her hand reaches over, gently caressing Michael's inner thigh. "Well, once we get some alone time I'll have to get my daily amount of protein."

You can't help grinning like a dumb idiot, trying hard to focus on the road.

> [1/2]

> [2/2]

"So, lemme get this straight..." Diana looks up from the notes Elizabeth scribbled out for her. "You want me to somehow design a device that can track down a Profane Urim, something that supposedly doesn't exist, so we can track it back to Tsukuyomi and fight her in her home base, where she has home field advantage?"

"And we want you to bring along whatever Imbued items you have that'll let us resist any sort of mind control attempt." Elizabeth continues to scribble out various notes, hands working faster than you've seen her work in quite some time, as it seems that her body is struggling to keep up with the speed of her mind. "Come on, you like a challenge, don't you?"

At that, Diana can't help but shrug and nod in approval. "It would be interesting to get my hands on one of those things, see if I can't reverse engineer it or figure out how it works... Ok, I'll be at my shop if you need me." She turns to leave your office, where you and Liz are working on various things, before stopping. "And Liz?"

"Yes?"

"I like the hair, makes you look younger." She pokes her tongue out in a playful tease before leaving.

"We really owe her a lot," you say to Elizabeth. "I'm not looking forward to repaying those debts to her... Both literally and figuratively."

"We'll make it work. Also, phone."

"Huh?" Not even half a second later the landline phone rings, as she points to it. You tentatively pick it up, head shaking in disapproval. "This better not become a habit of yours."

"Michael!" It's Joseph. Fuck! You had work today!

> Shit man, I'm sorry
> Yes Joseph?
> No habla Engles
> Other

File: withtimecomessadness.gif (367 KB, 300x157)

367 KB GIF

>>37683979
>I'll have to get my daily amount of protein
Why must you tease us like this when you're never writing smut again?

>>37684002
> No habla Engles

>>37684002
"Hey, Joseph, what's up? Sorry, I've hit a bicycle on the way to work We have a car, don't we? Otherwise it's the other way around.. So much paperwork here, sorry for not calling you."

> Shit man, I'm sorry
"Had a bit of an emergency."

>>37684002
>Shit man, I'm sorry


>She reads it once over, a sly smile creeping up her face. "So Jemma says you accidentally showed off Little Mac to her and Sarah?"
Is that really urgent news that Jemma had to share immediately?

>>37684097
Just because I might not write any more smut, doesn't mean another anon could. My hope is these little teases help them out a bit.

Besides, I thought my smut was mediocre at best.

>>37684176
No way man. It was pretty good to me.

>>37684154
Liz texted Jemma, saying she was ok and that you were bringing her home. Jemma replied, "That's good... So you know your husband flashed me and Sarah this morning? I'd prefer it if you could get him to keep it in his pants."

>>37684176
It hit the spot nicely. Mage sex is not exactly an easy niche to fill.

>>37684211
>I'd prefer it if you could get him to keep it in his pants
>not sure if lying or just in denial

>>37684264
It's meta knowledge, plus I answered this on the ask.fm, but she's bi with a decently strong preference towards women.

>>37684002

> Shit man, I'm sorry

>>37684384
why did she blush, then?

You briefly consider slipping into your Spanish accent and replying in Spanish, but you rather like having a job. "Shit man, I'm sorry. I got hung up at home, I'm heading into work now."

"What? No, never mind that. Listen, I dunno what you did or found out on Henry, but last night was the best night I've had in months. Take the rest of the week off as thanks."

"... But Joseph, it's Friday."

"Enjoy the three day weekend then; we'll have a lot to do once you get back in on Monday. It seems the Trimonti corp is trying to offload their purchases recently to some other corporation. I dunno the specifics just yet, but it sounds like they were just testing the waters to see what they could buy, and now the big dogs are coming into town."

That doesn't sound good at all, especially if this other corporation is one that Tsukuyomi has control over. "Well, if you need me for anything, just give me a call. And go ahead and forward whatever paperwork you have on this new corporation, I'll get caught up to speed over the weekend."

"Will do." At that, you hang up the phone, where Liz is waiting for you to speak.

> Tsukuyomi's still buying up land
> Just Joseph thanking me for what happened with Henry
> It's work, nothing major
> Other

>>37684669
>Tsukuyomi's still buying up land

>>37684650
Michael's a pretty hunky man, and she can still appreciate his looks and compliment him on them. She blushed more-so out of embarrassment at seeing his morning erection poke through his boxers than anything else, as he carried himself well with having it just hang free (even if he wasn't even aware of it being out in the open).

>>37684650
Michael's kind of hot, even if annoying.
Blushes are involuntary responses, but correlation =/= causation. Could have been reminding her of a former lover or an underwear model.

>>37684669
>Tsukuyomi's still buying up land
>Joseph thanking me for what happened with Henry

>>37684669
> Tsukuyomi's still buying up land
> Just Joseph thanking me for what happened with Henry

>>37684669
>Tsukuyomi's still buying up land
And that could mean that there's some kind of giant fucking blood magic ritual is in place. Remember those blood drives? How about we try to mark them on the map like we did a while ago.

>>37684897
>How about we try to mark them on the map like we did a while ago.
didn't we already try that?

>>37684908
I don't remember. Did we found anything?

>>37684922
don't think so

>>37684669
> Tsukuyomi's still buying up land

>>37684908
>>37684922
>>37684938
We marked the property acquisitions, but the blood drives fell by the wayside.

>>37685034
I don't think the same plot device will be used so soon again, but we should probably still check.

Writing.

"It was Joseph, thanking me for what happened with Henry," you say to her. "Though he did pass along one tidbit of information; Tsukuyomi is still buying up land."

At that, she scowls. "I don't know why she's so obsessed with it. None of the buildings or blood drive locations link together for a ritual of some kind, at least not one I'm familiar with." She pulls the map out with the locations marked off on it and passes it off to you. "Feel free to double-check my work, or see if Sarah or Jemma can figure it out."

> Investigate it yourself (5d10, Investigation + Wits)
> Let Jemma and Sarah handle it first
> Ask her about something else (write-in)
> Other

Rolled 7, 8, 6, 5, 2 = 28 (5d10)

>>37685399
> Investigate it yourself (5d10, Investigation + Wits)

Rolled 4, 3, 8, 1, 6 = 22 (5d10)

>>37685399
>Investigate it yourself (5d10, Investigation + Wits)
We were good at this before, let's do this again.

Rolled 10, 7, 2, 6, 10 = 35 (5d10)

>>37685399
> Investigate it yourself (5d10, Investigation + Wits)
>Ask her about something else (write-in)
Couldn't future!you send us back the information on what Tsukuyomi is planning?

Rolled 9, 7, 2, 6, 8 = 32 (5d10)

>>37685399

>>37685483
Clearly we end up not needing it. It'd be like parents giving their kids all the answers instead of letting them learn for themselves. Some lessons should be avoided, but this isn't one of them.

Writing.

Rolled 9, 2, 1, 1, 9 = 22 (5d10)

>>37685399
>>37686015
>Investigate it yourself (5d10, Investigation + Wits)
5th roll

You analyze the map, trying to discern the reasoning of why Tsukuyomi's buying up these buildings, but you struggle to come up with anything. You can't discern any pattern or a ritual circle of some kind, and the vampires were just illusions.

"Wait... the vampires."

"What about them?"

"Well, we fought real ones in your office back at the Lore House; the rain of blood and guts and body parts is rather hard to fake. But when we ran into Tsukuyomi she illusioned up that entire force. So does that mean that some of these buildings are for the vampires, and that there is a real Althena Trimonti? What if Tsukuyomi used the vampires just to get back at you and regain control of the Library?"

At that, she pauses. "Hmm... It's certainly a possibility, especially if we are to operate under the assumption that she is a Seer. And it would be something I could see her doing... How do you feel about meeting with the real Althena Trimonti?"

> And what, do a sort of, 'enemy of my enemy is my friend' deal?
> The fewer unknown quantities, the better
> Fuck the vampires, we'll deal with them after Tsukuyomi
> Other

>>37686229
>And what, do a sort of, 'enemy of my enemy is my friend' deal?

>inb4 vampire haters

>>37686229
> The fewer unknown quantities, the better

>>37686229
>The fewer unknown quantities, the better
Then we could make a real contract. The less uncontrolled vamps in the city the better. Of course, we, with our werewolf friends, should get the best conditions. Otherwise our minitaure sun friends are going to do the talking.

>>37686229
>The fewer unknown quantities, the better
the last time we negotiated with vampires, we almost all died. Logic dictates that this time it will go better.

>>37686229
>> And what, do a sort of, 'enemy of my enemy is my friend' deal?

i think this would work beter in the long run and lets us know one more of the big players in the city.

>>37686229
> The fewer unknown quantities, the better

Eating dinner, when I come back I will post the next scene, should be 20-25 minutes.

"I'd rather not have to deal with the unknown variable of vampires," you say to her. "Maybe after we finish up with Tsukuyomi we can politely talk to them and see if they will be civil in either our suggestions or..." You crack your knuckles as you squeeze your fist tight. "Hints."

"Fair enough."

The rest of the day goes by with little incident, as Elizabeth continues working in your office as you are left to sit and wait, a feeling you rather dislike. So instead you don some workout clothes and head out to the gym down the hall to get a good, healthy sweat going. Inside you see Jemma, hair bundled together in a ponytail with a similar thought process as you, as she begins to get some reps in on the punching bag.

"Keep your shoulders in close," you say to her as you head over to the bag. "Helps protect your core body from anyone trying to throw a counter."

"Thanks," she says, a slight thud from her fist hitting the bag. "Care to hold the bag for a bit? Just trying to work off some frustration."

> Sure (stay silent and let her punch)
> Sure (chit-chat with her while she punches)
> I'm gonna lift some weights first, sorry
> Flirt
> Other

wait, I thought "The fewer unknown quantities, the better" was a vote for meeting the vampires. Talk with them so they stop being an unknown quantity.

>>37687582
Me too.

>>37687582
Option 1 was to meet with them. Option 2 is to wait because they are an unknown element, but consider it after you get more info. on what Tsukuyomi is up to or she is dealt with. Option 3 was no, deal with them after Tsukuyomi.

>>37687390
> Sure (chit-chat with her while she punches)

>>37687390
>> Sure (chit-chat with her while she punches)
> Flirt

>>37687390
>> Sure (chit-chat with her while she punches)

>>37687390
>Sure (chit-chat with her while she punches)

I'm really tempted to flirt, but we have WoG that our flirting is annoying her

>>37687390
> Sure (chit-chat with her while she punches)
Well, hopefully we can pull this off without the vampires' help.

>>37687957
Option 2 just meant that it's not something you would have done right away (that's what Option 1 was). You can still try to meet with them, you just get this little slice of life with Jemma now.

Also, writing.

"Sure." You strech out a bit, flexing your muscles for her to try adn enjoy, before grabbing the bag and leanning into it a bit, providing a sturdy object for her to punch into. She throws out a few test punches to make sure you're in a comfortable position, and then a flurry of blows assault the bag. "Little frustrated there, huh?"

"Yeah. Haven't had any action in months and with taking care of Sarah it's not exactly a stable home for me to bring a person into." She pauses for a moment, looking at you. "She's slowly getting better, but she has her bad days every now and then too... Thankfully she's pretty stable with you guys. Probably thinks of you as our new parents."

"Yeah, well I don't think any daughter should lust after their father, real or imaginary," you reply to her mid-punch.

"Speaking of, I don't mind if you walk around shirtless, but just make sure your fly's not open or something like that, I don't appreciate a man waving his junk in my face." She throws a hard punch and you slide back a couple inches.

"Yeah, sorry for this morning. I was still half-asleep and didn't realize I was hanging loose."

"It's ok." She throws a few more punches, pauses mid-swing, then stops. "You know Sarah doesn't actually want to bang you, right?"

> [1/2]

> [2/2]

At that, you raise an eyebrow. "Really? With how many innuendos she makes?"

"It's her way of coping; if she's uncomfortable, then why not make everyone else uncomfortable? The Acamoth really did a number on her from a sexual standpoint. It took me nearly a month before she agreed to let Garen give her a medical checkup. Physically, she's mostly ok. But the piece of shit basically fried her pleasure centers. She can't get aroused at all, even after Garen healed the injuries inflicted upon her there."

"That's... Wow, I'm sorry."

She shrugs, putting on her mask of a brave face. "Nothing I can do about it now. All I can do is try and help her get better from a mental health standpoint." She begins to throw a couple more punches before stopping again. "Did you really mean what you said earlier today? Us being family, I mean."

> Yes, I'm a man of my word
> Do you not want us to be family?
> Well...
> Flirt
> Other

>>37688685
>> Yes, I'm a man of my word
>> Do you not want us to be family?

>>37688685
> Yes, I'm a man of my word
> Do you not want us to be family?

Liz was practically her adoptive mother anyways.

>>37688685
> Yes, I'm a man of my word. Why, do you not want us to be family?"

>>37687390
Seriously guys? Flirt.

>>37688685
> Yes, I'm a man of my word
> Do you not want us to be family?


>>37689461
we just told her she's like family for us and you want to flirt?

"Yes... Why, do you not want us to be family?"

"No, it's just... My adoptive parents passed away about a year before I met you, and I'd just given up on the thought of ever having a family again. But with Sarah back, and after everything Liz and you have done..." She stops punching, and begins to unwrap the bindings on her hands, head hanging low as she tries to hide the tears welling up in her eyes. "Thank you, Michael."

You lift up her head, wiping the tear away. "Sorry, you had a fleck of dust on your cheek, it was annoying me."

She grins, as the tears slowly get used to keep her eyes hydrated. "Thanks for helping me work off some frustration. Shall I return the favor?"

You nod, swapping places with her. "If you would be so kind." She agrees, and after a couple moments you start building up a healthy sweat, as the thudding of skin on leather echoes out in the gym.

A good 15 minutes pass in relative silence before you stop punching the bag, wiping your brow of the sweat on it. "Thanks." You glance over at the wall, seeing it be just before 4 pm. "I suppose we should go back and start cooking dinner."

"Yeah, I'm starting to get a bit hungry myself." Together, you two head back to the apartment. The rest of the evening passes by with little incident, as the four of you spend the night talking, laughing, and enjoying each others company. Finally as midnight approaches, Jemma and Sarah leave, assured that you and Elizabeth will be ok for one night alone.

> [1/2]

> [2/2]
"I had fun tonight," Elizabeth says, gathering up the empty wine glasses and rinsing them out at the sink. "I know we probably shouldn't be doing this, but no matter how hectic things get, these little moments of peace and fun should be things we savor."

"I couldn't agree more." You give her a quick peck on the cheek, arms gently wrapping around her stomach and waist. "Do you feel up to a bit more fun, Mrs. Santos," as you begin to kiss along her neck, hands starting to slowly remove her dress.

She leans back into you, setting the glasses down in the sink, grinding her butt up against your groin. "Mmm.... Go get ready, let me finish these up real quick."

You slowly untangle yourself from her, not wanting to risk breaking any of the glasses, and scurry off to bed, quickly removing your garments as you go. Not 30 seconds later she enters the bedroom, also fully nude. "Please be gentle," she teases as she slowly saunters over, raven black hair draped over her cleavage. "It's my first time."

> Quest End

5 exp gained.

I'm looking to run it again either this Friday or the upcoming Monday. Everything from here-on out is meta discussion.

Glad we finally got the upgrades out of the way. I'm sad we couldn't get more brawl, but this will work just as well.

>>37689800
Agreed. I don't mind you guys sitting/saving on exp. when you're going for a particular goal (like us going to Gnosis 3 relatively early on). But for almost 5 threads people were waffling between options and couldn't agree on something out of fear of spending the exp. wrong.

Unless you guys truly try to troll and spend it on something that you've rarely/never used up to this point in time, your decision is probably not going to be a bad one.

>>37689733
Thank you OP.


Personally, i think we should start using Shape Spirit to build up an army. Maybe create a locus to help feed them as well or something. What do you guys think?

>>37690023
we should get a familiar before we start building a spirit army.

>>37690063
Oh, that's right. Weren't get gonna get a badass hawk or eagle familiar at some point?

>>37690157
wasn't there a fox spirit, too?

The options were a wind spirit if you went for a 3 dot Familiar.

The 4 dot Familiar options were a fox spirit and a hawk spirit.

>>37690234
Guess we know what we'll be saving up for next. ow much XP will we need for a 4-dot familiar?

>>37690234
What would it take to convince a 5 dot spirit?

>>37690289
20 exp, as its 5 exp per dot in a Merit.

>>37690317
You'd need to find one that wanted to become a familiar first and foremost. You've met a couple 5 dot spirits but none that would want to become one.

>>37690417
soo, sidequest time? How much better would a five dot familiar be compared to a four dot one? Can familiars grow in power, either naturally or by using spirit magic?

>>37690487
You can take a smaller dot spirit and power it up with them getting exp or using spirit magic, but using magic on them requires a ton of trust, as if you mess up it could kill them.

A five dot familiar would be similar to a PC in terms of their stats and points available to them if memory serves me.

>>37690674
Yeah, Familiars are 3 to 4 dots. A 5 dot Familiar would basically be a Retainer.

>>37690893
Sooo, ghost samurai. Sounds cool.