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>>550943

“Welcome,” Liza shouts. She stands to your right, clad in gold-hemmed crimson armor, an elaborate mechanical device fixed firmly in the center of her back. Her hair is straight, faintly red. Her short stature beguiles her commanding presence and immense strength. Silence washes over the crowd as she calls out; slowly, they fall quiet to listen. “And my thanks to all of those who’ve elected to answer the call to arms.”

There’s a brief cheer, interrupting the silence, before someone in the crowd shouts in response, “What’s the plan?”

“The plan is as follows: we’re under the impression that the exiles originate in the magma chamber.” Liza nods. “Form groups—raids comprised of loose organizations of smaller parties. If you have friends, stay with them. Protect one another. We’ll be organizing teams of those who believe themselves capable to sweep and clear areas; others at the vanguard will keep the troglodytes from advancing, while the long ranged attackers can serve as additional area denial and ambush control.” A pause, before she turns to face you.

“Keep in mind the numbers at work here,” Called upon, you shout, leaning over the edge to address the crowd. Beneath your cloak – black and rusted gold – the rings of your gilded chain mail clink softly as you move. A half-circlet of the same color – Strife Memoriam – runs ear-to-ear across the back of your head. “Don’t let anyone die to kill one more Exile. There’s too many of them to trade one for one. Likewise, if a party falls under attack, those nearby should move to support. If we can, we’ll have the vanguard on rotation so no one’s taking too much damage at once.”

“Crafters and gatherers,” Florica says, oversized vermillion dress fluttering about her ankles. Her features are sharp; she wears a perpetual sly smile. “Either stick to the safest available areas if you’re combat ready, or form a second group and follow the main fighting force. You’ll get a shot at materials that are, as of now, in locales that are too dangerous to access.”

“We’ll be prepared to move out soon.” Liza shouts. “Before we go, though—I’d like any willing Artifact users in the crowd to come forward. I’ll be down shortly to speak with you.”

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>550960

She nods: a dismissive gesture, before the crowd below is taken once again by conversation. Satisfied, the three of you step back from the edge overlooking the staging area.

“You sure about this, Liza?” You ask quietly. “Seems like we’re keeping this whole cycle of fame and misfortune going.”

“We’ll need them to lead teams if they’re confident. We put all of these people in close proximity to each other, they’ll find kin – people they look up to, someone closer to the ground than a guild leader.” Liza says, turning to you as the crowd below shifts. “Plus, it gives us more information. You can’t possibly pretend you don’t want to know who the other big movers here are?”

“I guess.” You respond. There’s a few people coming out of the crowd, a loose assemblage in front of everyone else. “That must be them.”

“Looks good to me.” Liza says, turning to head downstairs. Florica follows closely behind her, and the two of them turn to you as they cross the threshold into the Observatory. “Coming?”

You raise a finger - hold on a sec - before bringing up your projected UI menu to investigate your contacts list; the thought of finding a party of your own hadn't really occurred to you.

> Smith, Liza, Vyx, Tatsumaki, Ayla, Aelriss, and Sulya are online.
> Vision, Donnel, and Nel are offline.

> “Can’t; I’ve got to get in touch with my own team.” Start sending messages and recruiting – you don’t even know who you’re going down there with.
> “Why not?”
> Other.

>>550987
>> “Why not?”

>>550987
>“Why not?”

>>550987
>> “Why not?”

>>550987
Thank you for returning in this dire hour.

>>550987
> “Why not?”

Dont know if im going to be on for the end of this, but to reiterate:

At the end of this, we need to make a name badge system of some form. Naming the nameless and giving them equel standing again should go some way to solving the unrest problems. Really we will also need a bag item that can contain the mcguffins everyone wants despite nameless being, normally, unable to carry them. Solve those two issues, and everyones on equel footing and we can start something on our terms to act as a unifying force, like a free company guild.

>>551169
Not doable, nameless can't use CGs at all. Finding a way to make bags of holding for them will mitigate dissent, but never eliminate it wholly.

>>551199
Yeah, but being able to carry them lets them claim CGs.

After that, we open a trusted forge station for the nameless to use which is operated by a named.
Named uses gems given by nameless to forge items requested, gives back to nameless. Impose simple gold tax.
Rotate out the forge worker to avoid mental fatigue from dealing with CGs all the time.
Its not perfect by any means, but if we can mitigate the majority of dissent then there is a good chance we can make shit meaningful for thm again, and that they'll help us instead of fueling power to freakshow.

>>551223
>gives back to nameless.
It's been a while but if memory serves the artifacts are character bound.

>>551244
Hmm. Then we really do need to find a way to remake the UI systems. So, after this, name plates, and a public group funded endevor to find a solution to the problem?

There might be a loophole somewhere we can wiggle through.

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Sorry about this turnaround time, I'm getting back into the rhythm.

>>551119
Darkest before dawn, anon.

>>551244
If Artifacts can be anything, it stands to reason that one could be designed for the explicit use of someone else. Recall Pandora's Box?

>>551387
"If artifacts can be anything"

UI manufactorium is a go.

>>551387
>Recall Pandora's Box?
Er... You're actually going to have to refresh me on that one, but you make a good point about lack of restrictions.

>>550943
To be honest I've mostly forgotten what events have led to this

>>551440
Theres political upheval, but right now we have an external threat (tm) to fight, so we can rally people into working together.

We need to stop the guild consolidation plan and form a council a la Log Horizon.

We need to resolve the nameless dispondancy and through that their support for freakshow, who are basically using them to acquire and consolidate lots of CGs in a pyramid rabble rouser scheme.

>* Strife Memoriam [[ 0 PP ]] - Inflict upon your foes the ceaseless artifacts of memory. With greater Celestial influence, transcend memory itself.
Was this the megaman artifact?

We are going to let everyone die to take their gems right?

>>551458
What does that artifact do in layman's terms?

>>551529
No, because then the trogs would murder us all.

This is armagedon. FIght and win together or die.

>>551458
>>551530
It was the Remember someone/thing and use it to fuck enemies up.

>>551529
Nah, too many enemies, and they'd spend CG to stay alive. Fight as one or die piecemeal.

>>551545
>>551541
>serious answer
Shaking my head

>>551552
problem is memes get too far out ahead if we don't.

>>551530

> [[ With Strife Memoriam, call upon the abilities of those you have faced in battle. ]]
> [[ Ascheritte, seek ever-stronger foes, and transcend memory itself. ]]
> [[ Seek Celestial Gems to expand the Artifact’s memory, and unlock new capabilities. ]]

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>>551022
>>551062
>>551094

“Well, it just dawned on me that I haven’t exactly resolved the issue of my party.” You shrug. “But I’ve got a few minutes.”

“You’re welcome to come with us, you know. I believe we’ve got room!” Florica says, singsong – Liza looks over, merely rolling her eyes. “Keep it in mind, is all I’m saying.”

You follow the girls through the Observatory. It’s been a while since you’ve seen this few people inside, honestly; since the first posts detailing its existence went live on the message boards after your raid, the place has been stacked wall-to-wall with people seizing advantage of the myriad facilities. Between alchemy laboratories, general stores, the basement forge and even the overworld simulation (useless to the public save for a breath of fresh air and some unique scenery), no stone has gone unturned – and not for a moment.

Now, almost all of that enormous population is outside, awaiting instructions – or at least a proper reason to spring into action. The fact that you were able to gather all of them for this is rather reassuring, though not necessarily to any particular end. You know now that in a time of need, you can trust the people of Averron to fall in line behind you and take up arms (assuming, that is, that you are able to provide the proper incentive, high-power demagogues such as Liza certainly contributing).

Now on the ground level, the three of you approach the loose assemblage of individuals standing out from the crowd – only three artifact users in a crowd this large, or at least only three willing to come forward. You suppose Liza did kind of put them on the spot.

“This it?” The foremost of them speaks up – a woman, certainly imposing and taller than even you, clad in full armor of stone and iron – in a deep, somewhat husky voice. You haven't spent a whole lot of time around the forums, but you think you might remember her picture from there. “There’s a lot of people here to lead – not that I’m not confident, but we can’t be the only ones, right?”

“The only Artifact users, perhaps not.” Florica says. “The only leaders, certainly not. As stated, we want these people as organized as comfortably as possible. Most will form groups with friends.”

“As many as possible under those that don’t will need to be under the watch of confident types, assuming we wish to maximize the effectiveness of this endeavor.” Liza adds. “And though we concern ourselves rather frequently with the ways this game likes to segregate us, it’s no surprise that the possession of a functional Artifact renders you a cut above the rest.”

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>551621

“Tell me something I don’t know.” The next of the three is a man in impractical, regal-looking attire, hair tied back. He extends a hand in your direction. “Name’s Crow – master of stealth and shadows. I’d say ‘just wait until you see me in action’, but you know how that goes. You’ve probably heard of me?”

“I doubt anyone here has heard of you, so quit showboating. This isn’t an exhibition.” The third looks relaxed, supremely unperturbed, wielding an enormous Eastern-looking sabre with no visible sheath. You get the sense that these three are solo players – it’s a familiar feeling, looking at the way they carry themselves. “Crimson Guardian, I assume you’re to tell us where we’re needed.”

“We’ll discuss the particulars in a moment.” Liza says, projecting her UI menu. “I’m opening a chat now. Your names? Crow, and who else?”

“Candrence.” says the armored woman.

“Kengo.” responds the sabre-wielder.

Your eyes snap to the crowd; the head of a towering scythe is visible above the forming groups as its holder pushes through in your direction. A woman with mottled grey skin and wild white hair – it’s Freya, Freakshow’s supposed new leader, approaching the six of you in broad daylight. “I just remembered, I’m an Artifact user. Is it too late to join the meeting?”

“How exactly do you forget something like that?” Kengo asks, raising an eyebrow.

“Oh, selective memory?” Freya smiles, briefly making eye contact with you before glancing at Liza and Candrence in sequence. “Forgive me – I might have been under the impression that with the Crimson Guardian in your midst, as well as this bounty hunter, you might have tried to do something unsavory. How could I be certain Liza wouldn’t, say, put everything aside to attack me directly, even in front of all of these people?”

“Is this your way of being friendly?” Florica asks. Liza, meanwhile, seems to be merely keeping herself under control: eyes closed, breathing deeply.

“Civil, certainly. I think I’ve done an excellent job so far. Made certain my policies are clear and well-known. It’ll be beneficial to all of us to work together in the good name of Averron. So,” she says, bringing an outstretched hand around to address everyone, “What’s the plan, Artifact users?”

Liza looks at her, teeth grit, preparing to speak. You doubt she’ll tolerate Freya’s presence.

> Interrupt. (Write-in.)
> Keep listening.
> Bail and let them sort it out – you’ve got business to handle.
> Other.

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>>551406
Then again, you are running with an 'if' statement. Even though the whole of the process through which Artifacts are made isn't explored...

>>551411
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/44363193/
It's entirely fair, as it was an event in a side-story rather than a properly major moment.

>>551649
It behooves us to try.

The longer this goes on, the more polarized this world will become. And I like the option of bringing back freinds.

>>551635
> Keep listening.
+
> Interrupt. (Write-in.)
Everytime someone goads someone, interupt with a pertinent question (if we can).

>>551635
>> Interrupt. (Write-in.)
Much like what was announced, the excpetion being those of us with artifacts are going to have to do a lot of the heavy lifting. We're more or less the best Averron has to offer, no matter how impolitic some of us are to each other. That means we're going to have to get along at LEAST until the Troglodytes are sealed. If the leaders and champions cannot get along, how will anyone else who looks to us for guidance? That said we're going to need to have a vague idea of what an artifact does, so we can coordinate better. While exact specifics would likely be great, I do not doubt all of us would rather play it close to the vest. I'd start but I just made mine and haven't used it, so I have very little idea what it does beyond remembering my foes.

>>551668
>>551635
Supporting

>>551668
>>551635
This

Reminder that we still haven't asked the fortune teller what happens to the UIs after we offer them to the altars or if there is some kind of reward for doing that.

> [[ PP: 0 / 0 (8) ]]
We have no choice but to invest into PP when we level up.

>>551635
> Bail and let them sort it out – you’ve got business to handle.
Glad you're back man. Unfortunately I'm still at work so I can't participate very easily

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>>551668
>>551677
>>551769

“First of all,” Liza says, stepping towards Freya. “You have no—“

“Liza?” You ask. “Can we try and get along for now – at least until the troglodytes are sealed?”

“Agreed.” Kengo says, glancing at you as if to size you up. “This mission is bound to fail if our supposed strongest are at one another’s throats for the duration.”

Liza exhales, shooting you a frustrated look before turning back to the group. “If the lot of you are truly confident, assemble groups by any means that foremost play to your strengths, including your preference of raids or smaller parties.”

“What if this rat tries to take advantage of the chaos?” Candrence asks, pointing a thumb at Freya. Supposedly, this woman’s a ‘bounty-hunter’ – looks like Freya now has two people denouncing her here, which pretty much just means more problems for you. “Gonna be a lot of people down there – she might just start offing dudes whenever she thinks no one’s looking.”

“You really think that lowly of me?” Freya asks, both hands braced around the haft of her scythe, bending forward to rest her weight on the weapon. “I’ve approached you with nothing but honesty, and—“

“You said raids and smaller parties, Liza?” You ask. “We know enough about the structure of things down there – should the different organizations be doing anything?”

“There’ll be a main fighting force, obviously: a rough organization should probably be forcing the way down toward the projected target location. Should be loose enough that injured front-liners can rotate inward to recover.” Liza says. “As we stated, those who want to take advantage of crafting and gathering should follow a distance behind this group; in terms of standard parties, though, we’ve got room for reconnaissance and outrunning, as well as keeping an eye out for ambushes and back patrols.”

“And I can’t help but expect the Seam to be serious trouble.” Florica adds. “I’m going to have to be down there to close it, but I’d really prefer to be in the company of some people who, well, mean business.”

“Understood.” You nod, unsure of where exactly you’re going to slot yourself into this plan.

“You need recon, I’m your man.” Crow says. “Well, you need anything, really, you can probably count on me, but – digression, right? I know some good Explorers in the crowd too – I’ll see if I can round up some people. We’ll keep contact, keep everyone informed, make it real.”

“I’ll lead a pack of any size.” Candrence says. “Stand someone behind me and I’ll make sure they live to do serious damage. I’d prefer not to fool around with anyone incapable, though; do you mind if I do some screening?”

> [[ Continued ]]

>>551635
>Interrupt. (Write-in.)
Ask Freya what she knows about the trogs. Resistances, any known patterns, etc. Treat her as a perfectly trustworthy character in matters like those.

Never ask her how other players are doing. Better to buddy up with the more leaderish Nameless anyway, Freakshow or not.

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>>552060

“Do what you have to.” Liza says.

“But try to be reasonable.” You add. “Make it as inclusive as you’re willing to get.”

“Fair.” The warrior folds her arms. “I’d rather this not be about publicity if it’s something we’ve got to get done, but I understand you’ve got an agenda to push.”

“That was unnecessary.” Liza scoffs at her – it’s particularly interesting to see her face off with someone who’s more than a head higher than she. “Almost all of Averron is here, you know; you can’t just ignore that.”

“Hey,” You interrupt again, “Do you think we might want to share what our Artifacts are capable of? It doesn’t have to be exact specifics, but it’ll certainly help with coordination.”

“Umbral Talisman.” Crow says, pointing to a chain around his neck. “I blend into shadows, and can weaponize them circumstantially. It’s pretty damn nifty, if I do say so myself; I’ll, like, sneak around and hide inside stuff…”

“I use a Celestial Bulwark to block attacks of all types with preternatural reflexes.” Candrence says. She points a finger at Freya accusingly. “Comes in handy dealing with ambush attacks, especially from this one’s rat pack.”

“My sword will destroy most anything.” Kengo says nonchalantly. “I’m very good at using it.”

“That’s it?” Crow asks, seemingly unimpressed.

“Trust me: it’s enough.” She responds.

“Okay, and what about you?” Crow looks in your direction.

“Well, I’m not sure.” You shrug. “I haven’t used it yet, so I don’t really know much about what it does – it’s based on remembering my enemies, so…”

“Great,” Crow responds, “Well, I’m sure that’s very useful. Those who forget history, and all.”

You’re not sure the adage is appropriate; Strife Memoriam will likely repeat it regardless of whether or not you remember.

“Freya?” Crow asks. “I’m sure you’d love to share?”

“She has the power of life drain. Undefeated in player-versus-player combat because of it.” Candrence hisses. “That’s in and outside the arena, mind you. It’s focused in her hand, so don’t let her touch you or you’ll regret it.”

“You know so much about me, love. I’m flattered.” Freya says, straightening up and pacing about her scythe. “You could have asked, instead of going through the trouble of researching…”

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>552080

“Pipe down.” Candrence continues, pointing at Liza and Florica. “As far as the two Guardians, I think everyone here probably knows something about them – Crimson Wings and the Arcana.”

"You got a lot of cash to blow on fortune tellings?" Crow asks. "Or just a lot of time to spend on the message boards?"

"Bounty hunting is pretty lucrative, and not a huge time investment." Freya gestures to Crow. "She gets to kill whoever she wants, and set her own hours."

"I said pipe down." Candrence says, pulling her shoulders back, chest puffed out as she wanders towards Freya to tower over her. "No one's listening to you anyway."

“Whatever, this is more information than I needed.” Kengo says. “I’ll defer to you in terms of my group’s assignment once I’m done organizing, Liza. As I said, we will go where we’re needed.”

“And I believe I’ll be taking a group—“ Freya begins.

“If I’m to tolerate you on this excursion, you’re going somewhere where I can see you, and you’re staying there.” Liza says.

“You’re really going to strong-arm me on this one, mm?” The silver-haired woman asks. “I’m a fellow guild leader, you know…”

“Ascheritte,” Florica intrudes, shaking her head with a sigh. “Do you have any preference of assignment?”

> “I’ve got some guys. We’ll figure something out.”
> “I’ll come with you – it sounds like you’re going to need me.”
> “I’ll grab some people from the crowd.”
> Other

>>552128
>> “I’ve got some guys. We’ll figure something out.”
>Honestly no real preferences, I prefer versatility to strict adherence to a style. whatever works.

>>552128
>“Pipe down.” Candrence continues, pointing at Liza and Florica.
Er, got the names mixed up here?

>>552128
> “I’ll grab some people from the crowd.”
we need to spread some jolly cooperation.

Also, some crafting friends would be nice.

>>552156
Actually nevermind, rereading it makes sense afterall

>BSO returns
>The happening begins

>>552128
>> “I’ve got some guys. We’ll figure something out.”
Time to bring in our friends. Hopefully we can fight alongside Smith

>>552128
> “I’ve got some guys. We’ll figure something out.”

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>>552148
>>552180
>>552274

“I’ve got some guys,” You respond, drawing out your UI menu. “We’ll figure something out.”

“Very well,” Florica says, subduing her voice to speak to you over the continued argument behind her. “I’ll contact you when things are wrapping up over here; it’ll take a bit of time, I think, for people to gather their forces.”

> [[ Contact Request: Florica ]]

“Thanks,” You respond. “I’ll try to be quick about it.”

> Smith, Liza, Vyx, Tatsumaki, Ayla, Aelriss, and Sulya are online.
> Vision, Donnel, and Nel are offline.

Looks like you’ve got a number of options in front of you. Vyx will most likely be traveling with an assemblage of Crimson Guardians, if not with Florica and Liza directly. Ayla will most likely be needed directly at the Seam once a clear path to it is revealed, though her position is likely at least slightly negotiable; you’d like to talk to her, at least, to see if you can do anything about the fact that she’s probably going to defect from the Alliance after all of this is over.

Tatsumaki is probably down for anything – you’ve never even seen the girl log off. Sulya is likely around here and could probably be talked into joining you, though her abilities aren’t particularly exceptional. Aelriss just logged back on, it seems; she seemed troubled after the raid, and it’s been a good while since you spoke with her – she probably has no idea any of this is even happening. Smith expressed interest in fighting alongside you again, too. He could certainly be an asset, though it’s likely that you’ve given him the impression that the two of you have more in common than you actually might; you don't want to call his trustworthiness into question, but...

> Message someone. (Write-in.)
> Other.

>>552413
>> Message someone. (Write-in.)
Tatsumaki, Aelriss Sulya and Smith

>>552413
>Tatsumaki
>You should go eat, brush teeth, etc. We're in for a long ride.

>Log out
>Go eat, brush teeth, etc. We're in for a long ride

>Message Smith about that money.

and I'm down with >>552425
as a party.

>>552441
>>552425
>>552413
Both sound reasonable.

>>552425
I'd rather not go with smith just in case he brings up that time where some retards voted to be a total edgelord when we first met him

>>552470
>that time where some retards voted to be a total edgelord when we first met him
I've completely forgotten, what happened?

>>552413

I'd rather join up with Liza's unit, but if we're going with our own squad my vote is for Tatsumaki, Ayla, and one of the other CG users. Maybe Crow?

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>>552425
>>552441

You have a seat on a low column, flanking a staircase outside the Observatory. Then, you produce your menu and begin messaging:

> [[ UI Messenger – Tatsumaki ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Tats
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Are you at the observatory?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Tats, you there?
> [[ Tatsumaki ]]: ?
> [[ Tatsumaki ]]: ya
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Everyone is meeting up for a big hunt. Are you in?
> [[ Tatsumaki ]]: ok!
> [[ Tatsumaki ]]: inv?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Give me a second.

That was easy.

> [[ UI Messenger – Aelriss ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Yo Ael
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Oh, hey.
> [[ Aelriss ]]: What’s going on? I just got back on and I’m suddenly surrounded by people.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Are you at the Observatory?
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Outside, I think?
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Fuck, I can’t even tell!
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Just walk towards the building. You can’t miss me.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I’ll explain in a sec.

Next!

> [[ UI Messenger – Sulya ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: You give Cardus the business for killing himself?
> [[ Sulya ]]: ( It felt wrong, so no. )
> [[ Sulya ]]: ( Need something? )
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: You know about the upcoming event, right? City-wide charge on the underground?
> [[ Sulya ]]: ( Yeah! I’m working on getting a party together now. )
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Well, so am I. Want to join up?
> [[ Sulya ]]: ( Got space for Cardus and Dorian? )
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Unsure, actually! I’ll get back to you in a sec.

One more on the list.

> [[ UI Messenger – Smith ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: If you’re around the Observatory I’m sure you know what’s going on?
> [[ Smith ]]: I heard you and the Crimson Guardians speaking, yes.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Well, I’m forming a party of my own to go down there. Staying loose.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Interested in joining?
> [[ Smith ]]: Somewhat.
> [[ Smith ]]: While frontline combat does sound rather glorious, I have no real desire for recognition.
> [[ Smith ]]: Likewise, there exists potential to earn an equally significant score without dirtying one’s own hands.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: That is?
> [[ Smith ]]: To put it crudely, people will likely die on this mission. It’s unavoidable.
> [[ Smith ]]: Thus, we’ll see the emergence of caches throughout the underground.
> [[ Smith ]]: Rare and unique sundries, Celestial Gems and credits notwithstanding.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Awfully cynical of you.
> [[ Smith ]]: I think it’s realistic.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Well, regardless, I didn’t take you for a vulture.
> [[ Smith ]]: I wouldn’t let such a golden opportunity pass! Besides, it’s merely a thought I had.
> [[ Smith ]]: I certainly don’t think of myself as a carrion feeder, but you and I have picked the bones of the fallen before.
> [[ Smith ]]: To our mutual benefit, no less!
> [[ Smith ]]: All that aside, I’m certainly not adverse to helping. My drone tech will be very useful if you plan to engage multiple enemies.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: One sec.

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>552833

“Aaagh.” From the direction you left earlier, Aelriss stumbles toward you, exasperated, looking nervously at the enormous crowd behind her. “What are you doing out here with all these people? I can't even hear myself think!”

“Long story, underground full of monsters, giant raid.” You respond, thumbing through the menu. “I’m sort of in charge. You know, the big man on campus and all. Sending you a forum post about it now.”

“You? In charge? Damn, I must have missed a lot.” She responds, shaking her head. “You been online all this time? I was seriously worn out after that raid.”

“Yeah. It’s not my fault things stay interesting.” You say. “Well, it might be.”

“So what’s going on now?” She asks.

“Thinking, give me a moment.” You respond, looking back over your contacts – you go ahead and shoot Tatsumaki a party invite. “I might have just put half of Averron’s population on hold.”

> [[ Current Party: Ascheritte, Tatsumaki ]]

> See if any of the other Artifact users want to join up with you.
> Invite Aelriss to your party.
> Invite Smith to your party.
> Have Sulya bring her team along - a party with some of the Writ Keepers doesn't sound terrible, even if Dorian is there.

>>552886
Before we decide does anyone remember if there is a party size limit?

>>552886
>> Invite Aelriss to your party.
> Have Sulya bring her team along - a party with some of the Writ Keepers doesn't sound terrible, even if Dorian is there.

>>552886
I see we haven't logged out or anything.

> Invite Aelriss to your party.
> Invite Smith to your party.
> Have Sulya bring her team along - a party with some of the Writ Keepers doesn't sound terrible, even if Dorian is there.
I kinda want the writ keepers' opinion on smith

I want to invite the Crow but he unfortunately he seems like a solo player.
>>552886
>> Invite Aelriss to your party.
>> Invite Smith to your party.
>> Have Sulya bring her team along - a party with some of the Writ Keepers doesn't sound terrible, even if Dorian is there.

>>552886
>See if Crow wants to join you as a scout.
> Invite Aelriss to your party.

>>552886
> Invite Aelriss to your party.
> Have Sulya bring her team along - a party with some of the Writ Keepers doesn't sound terrible, even if Dorian is there.

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>>552899

Typically, five makes a proper party; you’re not sure if this counts as a ‘dungeon’ but there’s nothing in particular that would stop you from expanding the group to a small raid (aside from having to split experience and loot more ways).

>>552914
>>552936

“Follow me?” You ask.

“I guess.” Aelriss responds.

You head back toward the crowd – Liza, Freya, and Candrence are still trying to sort themselves out – and maneuver around to get Crow’s attention.

“Crow,” You ask. “I’m forming a party, trying to keep my options open. Would you be interested in scouting for us?”

“Huh? Oh, yeah – sure, Scrapbook.” He says, nodding, before turning away from the other Artifact users. “Liza would probably want us to split up, but I’m sure she won’t mind if you need me. You’re lucky you got to me first, though! I’ve got some serious A-listers lined up that I wouldn’t mind rolling out with.”

He turns back to the other Artifact users for a mere moment, then shoots you a sincere look of please save me from these women.

> (A) Organize a party of - Ascheritte, Tatsumaki, Aelriss, Crow, Smith
> (B) Organize a party of - Ascheritte, Tatsumaki, Sulya, Dorian, Cardus
> (C) Expand to a small raid and invite all prospective members except Crow.
> (D) Expand to a small raid and invite all prospective members.

>>553015
>> (D) Expand to a small raid and invite all prospective members.
He seems like a bro

>>553015
>> (A) Organize a party of - Ascheritte, Tatsumaki, Aelriss, Crow, Smith
riiiight, 5 people. I guess let's keep this faction neutral?

>>553040
>>553015
Actually I like this other option more changing to
> (A) Organize a party of - Ascheritte, Tatsumaki, Aelriss, Crow, Smith

>>553015
(D) Expand to a small raid and invite all prospective members.

>>553015
>> (A) Organize a party of - Ascheritte, Tatsumaki, Aelriss, Crow, Smith

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>>553041
>>553057
>>553151'

Fiddling again with your UI, you begin sending invites, hearing the notifications from Crow and Aelriss nearby as they’re received.

> [[ UI Messenger – Group Chat ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the war.
> [[ Tatsumaki ]]: :D
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Ashe, you didn’t even ask if I wanted to come.
> [[ Aelriss ]]: I’m fine with it but.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Sorry, I got ahead of myself. Just assumed. Mile a minute, you know me.
> [[ Smith ]]: Hello, everyone.
> [[ Shadow Master Crow ]]: What’s up, everyone?

> [[ UI Messenger – Aelriss ]]
> [[ Aelriss ]]: There’s no one else in his guild I can’t believe it
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: What?
> [[ Aelriss ]]: He made his own guild so he could call himself Shadow Master oh god
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Ashe help me I’m dying

You look over – her face is totally red and she’s trying as hard as she can to look serious.

> [[ UI Messenger – Group Chat ]]
> [[ Ascheritte set the conversation topic to: BATTLE FOR THE EARTHSEA ]]
> [[ Aelriss ]]: oh god damnit you’re a nerd too
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Where do you think you are?
> [[ Smith ]]: Where are we meeting?
> [[ Shadow Master Crow ]]: We’re outside the observatory as of now. Want to chill on the ground floor?
> [[ Shadow Master Crow ]]: There’s like no one there. We can talk strats and stuff, give us some time before we head out.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Ael, set a waypoint?
> [[ Aelriss ]]: okay
> [[ Aelriss ]]: i'm fine just give me like a minute

> [[ Writing, please wait... ]]

>>553190
Aelriss is a cute.

>>553190
Crow and Aelriss a best

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Sorry - a little distracted. Going to take a quick break here so I can keep things going a while longer.

> [[ UI Messenger – Aelriss ]]
> [[ Aelriss ]]: I don’t want to laugh but holy shit this GUY
> [[ Aelriss ]]: LOOK AT HIM
> [[ Aelriss ]]: He’s CHECKING HIMSELF OUT ON THE PROFILE SCREEN
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Maybe he’s just organizing his inventory.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: …or something. Don’t be rude! He’s an Artifact user, you know.

The five of you rendezvous in a corner, at a table on the ground floor of the Observatory – Tatsumaki and Smith have been down exploring the hunting grounds, and are slowest to arrive as the others among you are already here. You mull over battle positions and the like; Crow is on scouting and reconnaissance, leaving you and Tats on the front lines and Aelriss offering support and crowd control with Smith.

“What now?” Crow asks. “We’ve all got everything taken care of?”

“I haven’t gone back over my inventory.” Aelriss says. “Might need to do some shopping.”

Tatsumaki looks at Ael, giving a nod in response.

“I should have most everything I need.” Smith says. “If anyone is in need of some change for consumables, I’ve plenty to spare.”

“What about you, Scrapbook?” Crow folds his arms, leaning back in his seat.

> “I handled most everything already – but I could look around the Observatory for a few.”
> “Might need to log for a little blt. We’ll meet back up before the raid starts.”
> Other

>>553349
Don't worry. You're still way faster than Soma.

>>553349
>> “Might need to log for a little blt. We’ll meet back up before the raid starts.”
Gotta make sure nothing IRL will stop us during the raid.

>>553359
That's like saying you run faster than a tetraplegic guy.

>>553349
>> “Might need to log for a little blt. We’ll meet back up before the raid starts.”
foood

>>553349
> “Might need to log for a little blt. We’ll meet back up before the raid starts.”

>>553349
>> “Might need to log for a little blt. We’ll meet back up before the raid starts.”
>Hour or two real time, but you know how fucky the interface is with real time to game time.

>>553349
> “Might need to log for a little blt. We’ll meet back up before the raid starts.”

Let's keep it quick. We know game time moves way differently than our time.

>>553349
> “Might need to log for a little blt. We’ll meet back up before the raid starts.”
+
> Other

Speech of hope. Were the only recognizable leader here not out for our own skin or power. We need to hammer the binding chain in passion and oratory.

>>553363
>>553394
>>553403
>>553420

“Might need to log for a bit.” You nod. “I’ve been online for a while. We’ll meet back up before the raid starts. Sound good to everyone?”

“Certainly,” Smith nods. “We’ll meet back up here in time. Do take care, then.”

You feel your form relax as you initiate the process of logging out, sinking lower into your seat.

> [[ BROKEN SKY ONLINE ]]
> [[ Disconnecting, please wait… ]]

Comforting darkness washes over you as you close Broken Sky Online.

You are suddenly aware of yourself, of the sensations of your body, much heavier and weaker than it is in the game – you feel a sort of ubiquitous malaise and you aren’t entirely sure why. It’s not a headache, nor do you feel sore or particularly nauseated; you merely feel wrong.

You’re in bed, having a hard time forming thoughts. You check your phone – no new messages. In fact, it’s not been very long at all: barely an hour, by your clock. How could you have done all of that in such a short time span?

It’s not even that late, now. You have to check to make sure it’s still the same day. Places are still open, if you wanted to go out for food, but you’ve got stuff here, and more responsibilities online soon. You close your eyes for another moment, hearing focusing down. It's quiet outside. Eric probably isn't here. You hear cars moving by on the street outside, and electronic music from some distant apartment, faintly rocking the foundation. You can hear your heart beating. Your ears ring.

Something nearby scurries out of sight; you think you can hear it scratching on the trim where the wall meets the floor. Some kind of insect? You thought this place was sprayed before you moved in. Or you might have just been imagining?

> Go brush your teeth.
> Look for food.
> Check the imageboards for information on BSO.
> Play Broken Sky Online.

>>553699
> Look for food.
Water, fruits such as bananas, apples, or oranges. Shit to clear your head. Hydrate thoroughly. Then,
>Wash our face or take a quick shower.

>>553699
> Look for food.
Bread+cheese.
Its boring as shit, but itll keep you going.
Then:
> Go brush your teeth.

>>553699
> Look for food.

>>553699
> Look for food.
Just eat something we have here real quick. Game time moves faster so we have to hurry

>>553699
> Look for food.
>Check the date

>>553699
>>553711
Gotta stay healthy. A shower will also clear our head. Supporting.

>>553699
>> Go brush your teeth.
>> Look for food.
hydrate

>>553699
>>553711
I'll support the healthy option as well.

>>553699
>> Go brush your teeth.
>> Look for food.
>> Check the imageboards for information on BSO.
All options

>>553699

You brush your teeth, briefly unfamiliar with the sight of yourself in the mirror. The room outside – your bedroom, nightstand, work desk – are visible in the reflected image. There: it scurries by again, right behind your bed! You’re certain…

You’re anchored for a moment to the sound of running water, and almost lose a few minutes staring at the faucet. You’re not sure what pace the game moves at. You can’t afford to waste time, and splash a handful of water into your face to snap out of it. You finish up in the bathroom, stalling for another second as you wander back outside to stare at the space where your bed meets the wall – small, aphotic – waiting for movement.

There’s nothing. You open the door to your room and cross the threshold into the apartment proper.

The lights are off. You navigate the darkness to the refrigerator, which bathes you and the rest of the kitchen in yellowish-white light. It’s uncomfortable, in the way it relaxes your eyes; you’ve spent all this time fixated, though mostly unaware, on an image full of blue, utterly washed out with it, so bright and sterile.

Bread, meat, cheese. You hash together a sandwich and gulp down a glass of water, pouring yourself a second before you begin working away at your meal.

It sounds like there’s a commotion outside, but any opportunity you’d have been interested in has since passed you by; what would you be doing, this time of night? You make sure the door is locked, double-checking the windows and window-shades.

> Write-in.
> Look for information online. (Write-in.)
> Play Broken Sky Online.

I was wondering when the bugs would start showing up.

>>553887
> Play Broken Sky Online.

>>553887
> Play Broken Sky Online.

>>553887
>Play Broken Sky Online.

So, whaddya guys think the plot twist will be? In game (MMORPG) and in quest?

>>553963
Isekai

>>553887
Check outside briefly to make sure our block isn't on fire, then

> Play Broken Sky Online.

>>553963
Reality is a simulation and BSO is the real world

>>553963
BSO is draining our life force to sustain its servers.

>>553887
>Don't think about Celestial Gems.
>Investigate the noise

More realistically, the game is causing rapid degeneration of our brain... neurons... cells.. functions. Not sure of the vernacular. If it's gone full soft sci-fi or even a hint of fantasy, then maybe our consciousness is being tied more deeply to the game world itself and while everything IG seems more realistic and vivid, we get the whole "what is reality, truly?" effect, whenever we log out.

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I gotta run.

For whoever who hasn't seen it yet.

>>554137
That's fucking atrocious

>>554143
finally, some feedback!

>>553887
>> Play Broken Sky Online.
>Make a mental note to actually SLEEP once this raid is done.

>>553983
this too

>>554137
This does not look good man. I gotta be blunt

>>554143
>>554175
Nah, I see what you mean. It'd be kinda hard to grab the guy who drew this though.

Into the void it goes....

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>>553905
>>553910
>>553911

A quick peek through the shades reveals all is well outside - nothing ablaze, anyway. There's people gathered around a car in the parking lot, windows down, music playing. It appears innocuous.

You don't think anything around here is your concern.

Wandering back into your room, you sit down, pulling the veil back over your eyes. Familiar blue, faintly stinging, somehow comforting. Leaning back, you welcome vertigo.

> [[ Calibrating, please wait… ]]
> [[ BROKEN SKY ONLINE ]]

Thick foliage around you, flanking either side of the clearing, obscures your vision. The mist is strange, affording a strange tactile sensation; thick and acrid, it rises up from the ground around you, stinging your nose and eyes, burning your skin.

The sky is strangely overcast, an off-green. You can’t see the sun through the clouds. As you pull yourself to your feet, an enormous shadow passes over you.

There’s movement nearby; rustling in the brush, and heavy breathing. You draw your sword, leaping into a fighting stance.

> [[ Overworld – î¤SY¦6ëþ™4©ÅÖ›„ &êTCŒ”ß // PvP Enabled ]]

”…ect the ones to herald their return...”

“What?” You ask, turning to the source of the voice. The observer stares at you from a distance down the loamy path, quilled guardian wholly obstructing your vision of the horizon.

”…though this world is not yet to their liking…”

White light like flame drips from glowing eyes, perfectly aligned. Shifting quills and hems of garments pour darkness upward, spilling and swirling to stain the very sky. Wind whistles hollowly through the trees, rattling chains as you observe the observer.

> ”Who are you?”
> Attack.
> Write-in.
> Log out.

>>554380
> ”Who are you?”
And who are you referring to?
If we can somehow activate our artifact right now that'd be nice, I bet this dude has some nice abilities

>>554380
>> ”Who are you?”
Activate our artifact.
I wonder if this is caused by the prophecy or our mysteryous skill. Maybe both.

>>554380
> ”Who are you?”
> "How did I get here?"
Stay in our fighting stance though
>>554413
I think it's probably our hidden skill

>>554380
> Attack.

I'm kinda curious about our artifact. If it like forcibly writes memories into our head it seems kinda dangerous for our IRL well being.

Also Aelriss is objectively best girl.

>>554491
We really just need to actually use it somehow, it's an interesting artifact but it sucks that we couldn't use it as soon as we made it since it hasn't recorded anything yet.

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>>554413
>>554389
>>554421

”…it is unexpected that one so frail and timid would fall among their ranks…”

“Who are you?” You ask, maintaining your stance.

”Among us are those who watched this place crumble. Amusing, then, that you wander forward as if there is something for you to do about it.” It steps forward, gaze fixated more clearly on you. ”Weak. Boorish. Insipid.”

You shake your head, feeling a buzzing from behind your ears. Strife Memoriam unfolds, a series of plaintive mechanical chirps and intrusive crackles reminiscent of Crimson Wings. The bright eye, a mirror reflecting the past, is as your third eye – in the center of your forehead, embedded within the circlet, an artifact of unknown might.

”…Oh?” It speaks without a mouth, words merely echoing from its core – droning, it coughs up something that you imagine is a laugh of pity. ”You have their blessing, too. So be it.”

With a flick of its arm, the observer cracks the chain like a whip, unleashing its companion. Quills of black ichor flare outwards as it rocks onto its front legs, unleashing a roar that fills your ears to the exclusion of all else. It is white noise – static, raw and powerful – that shakes the very earth beneath, the trees surrounding bending away to accommodate.

You stand your ground.

It springs toward you faster than you imagined such a creature could move, crossing the intervening distance as if pulled on ethereal strings, as if the world had forgotten its appropriate position and velocity and elected to substitute something that ‘sounded about right’.

It’s barely an instant, but you’re aware of all of the sensations – the air moving around you, the noise filling your ears – as it approaches.

> [[ 1d100 ]]

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>554535
ARTIFACT HYPE

Rolled 30 (1d100)

>>554535

Rolled 51 (1d100)

>>554535
Nat 1

Seems like we just met the BBEG

>>554564
He definitely seems like a precursor at least. Just like the Artificier we killed.

I wonder what we'll copy from this guy? Assuming that's how this artifact works.

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>>554545

> [[ 91 ]]

You think you remember.

In this world, you are stronger than you know. You are fast, and your body is light. You are capable of feats of agility and martial prowess that you or anyone in the real world could scarcely dream of achieving.

You imagine a time in which you moved faster than you ever had before to evade danger. You envisage it in your third eye and place yourself within.

The air ripples around the Guardian as it lurches toward you, and you’re away immediately, throwing yourself low and to the side, catching yourself in a roll that sends you running up the trunk of a twisted-and-leaned tree.

You can protect yourself from this thing, but you can’t get out of this mist – it’s burning your throat, choking you. You imagine it’s corroding your body, eating away at you on the inside, and on the outside, withering your armor and weapons. Minimize contact: go up, higher. The Guardian hits the ground skidding, knocking over so many trees and tearing through the brittle earth, a crater thirty feet long, fifteen across, ten deep, spilling ichor the whole way that dissipates in the air, attenuating into nothing.

It whirls around and spews oil – a constant, high-pressure stream of reeking tar – from its fanged mouth, cleaving through the foliage as it sweeps toward you. You run up the tree, launching yourself high into the air from the apex, the blast passing harmlessly under you as you twist in the air. You’ve dodged faster foes – the violet lightning of the rusted Artificer, the razor claws of his marbleized lover, the beams of sheer heat from his bejeweled guardian.

You are riding the momentum of your run, gaining height, rising above the mist. Now distant (far away, far below) the beast looks small, even in its enormity – and it does not appreciate this, content only to tower over its prey. It leaps back over the crater, landing approximately where you were when you moved to avoid it, then – looking upward – it leaps, massive human hands outstretched, sailing into the sky to meet you.

Your third eye burns.

You think you remember…

> Rust.
> Marble.
> Ruby.

>>554621
>> Ruby.
Other options are peasant-tier

>>554621
> Rust.
Fuck yeah, time to use boss-tier lightning magic

>>554621
> Ruby.
It is shiny.

>>554621
> Rust.
Raid boss purple lightning magic>mid boss lasers

>>554643
>>554621
Changing to
>Rust

>>554643
>>554668
You guys realize that were voting between the artficiers lightning magic, velikas claws, and the golems laser beam right? The material listed isn't actually relevant

>>554621
>> Rust.

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>>554653
>>554677
>>554693
>>554707

Rust.

A scene plays out in your mind, viewed from many angles simultaneously. Violet fire scorches the earth, felling trees and tearing the ground asunder. Reflected in the mirror-eye of Strife Memoriam, a vendetta lasting minutes, hours, years – is played back in a moment.

You feel a power unlike any other.

You need more – but first, you need release, to unleash your strength, and to see what you’re really capable of. Your empty hand is tingling. Your bones ache and burn – a vital infusion of Celestial power ripples through your body starting at the head – and every moment of it feels fantastic.

Your eyes widen as the Guardian grows larger beneath you, flying up faster than you could have hoped to leap. Your grin grows wider. You -laugh-. Kjorikos was careless! You are not!

The beast’s ascent is slowing, but so is yours. You’re ever so slightly out of reach, but beginning to fall, inches away from its crushing grip. Then, you stop. You steady yourself in the air, appearing as if crouched parallel to the ground, and watch it grope helplessly at the air beneath you as it tumbles back toward the earth.

Then you begin to fall. You streamline your body for a moment to accelerate, terminating in a forward roll which sends you hurtling toward the creature, arm raised high. Your empty hand is tingling – crackling – and you can’t take it anymore.

> [[ 1d100 ]]

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>554753

Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>554753
get fukt

Rolled 87 (1d100)

>>554753
Nat 1

>>554756
Fuck, what were the crit rules for this quest again?

>>554757
get hype

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>>554757

> [[ 95 ]]

Withering heat rises off your hand as you fall. You reach back to shape an inexorable lance from raw, amethyst lightning. It burns, held tightly in your gauntlet, light seeping from between your fingers.

You can’t hold it any longer. You cast it downward with fury befitting the mad Artificer. You are as a demigod of the storm, descending from the heavens to punish impudence. The clap of thunder, blasting the very leaves from the trees adjacent, heralds the arrival of your swift and terrible sword.

It is fixated on a target, and cannot be stopped. It pierces the beast’s side as it tumbles toward the ground, passing cleanly through, tracer-trail of wild plasma illustrating a clean and transient path from your hand to the ground, from one side of the Guardian’s body to the other.

It howls, ichor spraying from the wound, and crashes down, sending a plume of dust and broken earth skyward.

You pass into the cloud of smoke and land on one knee, a distance away from the new crater.

Black raindrops fall all around you as you rise, pitter-pattering on the leaves of ruined trees. Wind howls in the distance, and you hear the creaking of branches – torsional strain.

Your sword is in one hand, and you flex the fingers of the other, ancient flame gathering in your palm. With the hood of your cloak – rusted gold and bronze – so pulled over your head, one could be forgiven for mistaking you from a distance as Kjorikos or one of his adherents.

“I’m not done.” You say, and look over your shoulder. A distance behind you, through the withering cloud, the Observer’s eye flickers to life.

”Inadequate.”

Something stirs nearby. The Guardian still lives.

As the smoke clears, you glimpse the horizon, where green threads of light reach up from the earth into the darkening sky. You are surrounded by piercing howls – faint white orbs, burning, flicker to life in the distance, at the vanguard of many-mouthed silhouettes in the sky beyond.

The sound is blaring, droning, aggressive. It fills your ears – though still, you can hear the Observer’s chain as it rattles nearby.

You sheath your sword, lightning burning away in your other hand. You turn and walk unafraid into the darkness; you shut your eyes, and hear familiar voices beyond.

>>554842
God fucking damn. Our Artifact is fucking baller.

>>554850
I'm worried about our distinctly kjorikos-esque thoughts but yeah that was badass.

>>554842
to be honest, I wasn't expecting that the system would be so sporting as to give retroactive memory powers.

>>554876
This shit literally is reading our mind if this was real I'd be worried.

>>554876
Well it works off of our memories right?

>>554888
>>554889
I thought it would be "storing" memories, rather than "reading" straight from our mind.

So yes, I am a liiiiitle bit worried.

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>>554842
That's all for tonight! Archived. I turned out to be pretty tired after all and am currently not feeling super well - but expect another thread (probably on an upcoming weekday evening, but maybe sooner depending on how I feel) where Ascheritte and party will hopefully begin the battle to the Seam.

I'll be around for a while to answer questions, probably on a different device, and will probably get back in the habit of using the Ask page. The mandatory board shift is kind of a pain - certainly fucked up my plan a little bit - but it'll hopefully be a good thing in the long run if it doesn't kill Quests altogether. Regardless, I'm better than up and dying because of something like that, certainly better than starting drama over it, and I'm sorry I forgot that for such a long time.

Sorry about the slow turnarounds today, too - long dialogue sequences have always taken me for-fucking-ever to write, distractions (which are currently very frequent in my life and will be for the foreseeable future) notwithstanding: this thread happened to have a lot of those. Regardless, thanks to everyone for showing back up and sticking around; you guys are puttin' in the real work.

Oh, yeah. If you like fan stuff, the Titanpad is still around for discussion and theorycraft, and I comment pretty frequently:
https://titanpad.com/kZOMVYSrMv

>>554896
It probably alters our memories too. Why would you be worried about that?

>>554902
Are we going to find out what our secret skill is?

>>554902
How long does Kjorikos mode last?

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>>554910
A little bit! We'll be seeing more soon - but by activating it, Ashe will be able to draw from a temporary, nebulous resource to throw a couple of bolts and float for a little bit. I don't really want to give a whole lot away - hopefully soon we'll be learning a bit more about 'reallocating' and gaining additional memories to sling around.

>>554920
so what you're telling me is......Tats and Ael might mistake us for Kjorikos when we appear?

>>554902
Good to have you back.
Again.

So with bugs starting to show up and that dude getting hospitalized in the side story, are you gonna start ramping up the IRL happenings?
Are we going to get attacked by a shirtless dude with unexplained fire powers?

>>554920
How freaked out will people be once we tell what just happened?

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>>554922
Oops!

>>554925
There's a lot of old ideas of mine and ideas of friends that make up the heart of what BSO is - and then, of course, there's a lot of that in there too (in that way, I'm trying to explore concepts that I think deserve to be explored!) I love it all, of course - but obviously I want to depart from my inspirations (but also to invoke similar feelings - to create similar intrigue) and I'm still going through the very slow process of figuring out what exactly that's going to look like. How much goes on in real life is obviously directly related to how much time you guys spend outside the game - and I mean, our protagonist doesn't really have a whole lot going on for him right this minute.

>>554948
Guys! You'll never believe what just happened!

>>554977
How deep is this rabbit hole?

>>554977
The thing I like about Broken Sky Online is that there's so much raw potential, but it seems like from a quest standpoint, the only part that gets explored in any real detail are the "game" portions, even though obviously much more is going on. Sybil already doesn't feel like it's just a "game" anymore, yet they keep coming back for more. They can't help it. And it's ideas like that, the disorientation, the nausea, perhaps even a touch of horror, that I'd love to see more of, and it necessitates learning a little more about who the people are outside of the game for it to have any impact.

Then again, I also think it's interesting how certain characters might not think of themselves as being 'all that interesting' outside of the game, especially Roleplayers or people playing from a hospital bed. Their time online, for them, is basically just as important as their time offline. Maybe moreso.

>>555024
Well said anon.

>>554977
This guy my exact thoughts to words.

>>555024
I'm completely uniterested in the real life portion

>>555033
Stuff that happens IG is contextualized by what happens in real life. Because the stakes are (I assume) actually high, maybe not IF YOU DIE IN THE GAME YOU DIE FOR REAL but tangible, observing what happens outside the game is about as important as observations made IG. Admittedly, no matter what, a greater portion of the Quest will happen IG because fights and exploration just takes so much time to write, but inbetween raids we should be forum trawling, maybe start a flame war or two, spot the occasional shitpost from Anaximander, maybe call our parents and tell them we made it through high school without getting hooked on drugs only be taken down by VRMMOs like a punk.

>>555139
>but inbetween raids we should be forum trawling, maybe start a flame war or two, spot the occasional shitpost from Anaximander
I support that

So are all 3 of those memories usable with our artifact or is it just Kjorikos?