>>760264
After what felt like to you a long period of running around playing pretend with some freshman Magical Girl squad, you’d taken a few days off yet again. Sal’s been blessedly silent for the past three days, which is both fantastic and concerning, and earlier today you’d decided to do yourself a favor and rarity, and pop down to a massage parlor to work out a few kinks that’d been growing in your back. It’d been...rather heavenly, to tell the truth. So much so that you have to admit, you’ve been in a surprisingly good mood ever since.

At the moment you’re kinda just meandering around town, considering maybe getting something to eat, or looking into getting one or two of those swords of yours treated- it’d be expensive, but you can afford it now, if you like. Heck, you kinda feel like maybe just ringing up one of the girls and saying hi or something. Today’s been good so far. There's a number of things you could probably do at the moment- so long as they didn't drain your finances. Have to keep some in reserve since dues.

It's never the same date for anyone else. Everyone has their own specific 'due date' where either the Ingenious pluck out a percent of their payment- with adequate warning, to be fair- or they're summoned to 'the Chambers'. It was basically, according to folks you'd heard talk about it, a near pitch black room (some say it's not a room at all, it's another dimension) with an effigy of the Ingenious, where people late or underpaying on dues could plead their case to the Ingenious. If they accepted the reasoning, then you got a reprieve, and some extra tacked onto your next due date. If they didn't...

...yeah.

But! You don't have to worry about that- never had to, in fact. Something you thank your lucky stars about. And it seems that won't be changing any time soon, thank goodness! Thirty-eight motes would be more than enough to satisfy your dues, and if you were doing your mental math right, you'd still have a solid amount left over for whatever you wanted! And speaking of that...

>See about picking up a snack.
>Look into weapons treatment.
>Just ring up one of the girls, maybe do some casual hanging.
>Other

>>760309
Why the fuck would you start a thread before finishing the opening posts?

>>760309
>you’ve been in a surprisingly good mood
well, that's not going to last long

>Just ring up one of the girls, maybe do some casual hanging.

>>760309
>See about picking up a snack.

>>760309
>>Just ring up one of the girls, maybe do some casual hanging.

Writing. See what's up.

Weren't we going to look for treated tech items like thermoptic camouflage, IR/UV goggles, and other such goodies that can operate independent of magic and so will work on practically every world?

>>760309
Yeah, you’re in a nice enough mood. Maybe see what the other two are up to. You know Izumi’s been back and forth with that library job of hers- can’t be that fast-paced, but it’s still a job she has to focus on nowadays. Wonder if you could stop by or not Lorelei, for all you know, might already be out and about. Well, might as well see.

A few rings gets you Izumi- she doesn’t seem to sound up to much at the moment, however- in fact, she sounds like she’s either just woken up or is just about to go to sleep. Wonder what the cause of that was- likely offbeat hours again. That library is all-hours. There’s not a whole lot of talking from her, but that’s fine. Lorelei, on the other hand, seems peppy and up as always. “Heeeey! How’s tricks?”

“Goes fine, Lorelei. A lot better than I was a couple weeks ago, anyway.” You pass by a few stores selling snacks and candies as you start walking into the Eatery District. “I was actually wondering if you wanted to hang out for a bit, really. I’m feeling good.”

To your surprise, Lorelei doesn’t answer immediately. That in itself is enough to cause you a mild bit of concern. However, when she speaks, she’s got all her pep. “Sure! I could do with something to take my mind off of things! But, uhh...you wanna head over? Meet me here?” Hm. That wasn’t the best sign, but sure, you’ll take it. She’s done just as much for you, if you’re being fair.

“Sure thing. I’ll be there.” Wonder what was up.

When you arrive, you hear a lot of scuffling- and when you knock on the door you hear a slight yelp of surprise. “Just a sec!” you hear her call out, and a minute later she’s at the door. She looks...fine, actually. Not sure what you were expecting, entirely. About the only thing is that she looks a bit rustled in the hair. But she’s still got that winning smile on, and she appears perfectly fine by all body language tells. “Heeeeey! Sooo, just a heads up, can’t really afford anything major right now, but howsabout a girl’s night in?”

Hoo, your mental alarm bells are going off. But with how she looks, it seems like it might just be a false alarm this time.

>Anything troubling you?
>Sure, I guess.
>Sure you can’t come out? I’ll comp.
>Other

>>760485
You still can. Not remotely too late.

>>760493
>>Anything troubling you?

How fuckin broke are you, woman!?

>>760493
>>Anything troubling you?

>>760493
>Other
"Let's go looking for a tech dealer; I want some tech items for my next mission, and you can always browse."

>>760493
> Anything troubling you?

>>760493
Your instincts rarely lead you wrong, and so you decide to trust them again. “Anything troubling you?” you ask quickly. To her credit, she just looks at you calmly, instead of startling or freaking out or anything like that, the only signal that you hit on something being the slight downward turn of her mouth. “I’m just asking out of concern,” you add. It was odd saying that, but you kinda liked being able to.

She hems and haws for a bit, then sighs. “Yeah, sorta. I’m not too thick in the soup just yet, but I’m starting to get worried. My cash is starting to run low- can’t really set myself up with any new gear for jobs for a bit either, considering I still need to hand over next period’s dues.” She shrugs and sighs, as you both walk in and you plop yourself on her couch. “Honestly, it’s my fault. I need to stop spending so much time in the Festival District...I’m such a sucker for all the bright lights and sounds and beautiful people…”

“I’m pretty sure anyone could’ve told you that,” you quip. She chuckles good-naturedly as she fixes you both some juice. “So, that’s why you’re hoping we have a stay-in?”

“Yeah, I need to keep things real tight until I can find another job, but I’m pretty sure it’ll happen sooner than later!” She downs her drink as if it were a shot glass. At least her optimism was still intact- and to be fair, she did get a higher volume of jobs than Izumi did, despite her lower success rate if only because she managed to get so many side gigs done. It was a strange give and take...but chances are something would be tossed her way eventually. “Although I waaaaassss wondering…” And then she fixes you with the biggest puppydog stare. “If a certain SOMEONE would be willing to bring me along on their next job, I’d be suuuuper grateful…”

You blink. “Don’t stretch your words out like that, you remind me of Sal. And…”

> “Fine. Even split.”
> “You’ve really gotta handle this yourself.”
> “Fine, but we split the take sixty-forty.”
> Other

>>760599
> “Fine, but we split the take sixty-forty.”

>>760599
>"Fine, Even split."

Lorelei does the side-quests for bonus money while we focus on the main quest? Seems like a recipe for success (or horrific failure), but nonetheless it sounds like fun!

>>760599
> “Fine. Even split.”

We're already made so this is fine.

>Other
I get dibs on any cool gear we get to bring home.

>>760599
>> “Fine. Even split.”

>>760599
>“Fine. Even split.”

>>760599
Well it depends on whether the contract allows it. If it does
> we split the take sixty-forty

>>760599
>“Fine, but we split the take sixty-forty.”
Bitch can get her own job or take the short stick. She got her own fool self into trouble, it's not Miranda's duty to unfuck her finances.

Split it down the line. Writing!

>>760599
>> “Fine, but we split the take sixty-forty.”
If she doesn't like it, she can haggle.

>>760599
“...Fine. We split it down the middle, though, fifty-fifty.” It was kind of annoying that she’d gotten herself into this situation, but...meh. She sounds at least like she recognized she screwed up. Might as well give her a shot at redeeming herself. “You’re not getting a- gah!”

She’s already hugging you, and yikes, she has a surprisingly strong grip. “Thankyouthankyouthankyou! Oh, you’re the best of the best!”

“Maybe, but can you loosen up a bit?” you manage to squeeze out.

“Oh, right!” She quickly lets you go, and you can actually breathe again. “So, let’s get to it! Izumi told me that you’ve got a neat new little toy, right? Can I see?” You just give her a look, which she just grins back at you for. But at last, you just take out the FutureSight. “Oooooooo! Is it as fancy as I keep hearing?”

You nod. “Yup. Pretty handy, this thing. Anyway, let’s see what we’ve got available…” Some jobs were explicitly one person only, but some others didn’t mind if they got more than one. Of course, rule was if you brought an extra, you were responsible for them, and matters of payment would be between you and your plus one. Which, frankly, you were fine with. After a bit of filtering, you come up with a list of currently available jobs. There...aren’t too many at the moment worth your time, but you eventually find a couple worth taking more than a second glance at that could work with what you’ve got going.

"Ooh...dang, most of these look nice!" Lorelei spouts. She might not be entirely wrong...

>Crime lord seeks capable assassins to eliminate planetary hero. Must be discreet. Hero may be under protection.
>Riders Added: Collateral Damage Minimization.
>Estimated Profit: 16 Motes

>Talent Agency seeks physical sabotage and social destruction of rival Idol Magical Girl unit.
>Riders Added: Selective Targeting
>Estimated Profit: 9 Motes

>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'. Quote: “No Greenhorns.” Long-term contract potential.
>Riders Added: None.
>Estimated Profit: 14 Motes

>Government organization seeks deniable assets to exterminate rogue agents.
>Riders Added: None
>Estimated Profit: 12 Motes

>Highly skilled guards needed to defend headquarters from repeated outside threats. Elimination bonuses available.
>Riders Added: None
>Estimated Profit: 8 Motes + 2 Motes per major adversary eliminated.

Hm. Some interesting choices. Kinda surprised at the payouts- but then again, you DID explicitly filter for jobs that'd take multiple people...

>What's your choice?

>Crime lord seeks capable assassins to eliminate planetary hero. Must be discreet. Hero may be under protection.
>Riders Added: Collateral Damage Minimization.
>Estimated Profit: 16 Motes
Evilicious, and it pays the best.

>>760823
>Highly skilled guards needed to defend headquarters from repeated outside threats. Elimination bonuses available.
>Riders Added: None
>Estimated Profit: 8 Motes + 2 Motes per major adversary eliminated.
Something that is less likely to have side jobs for her to get distracted with would be good, as we'll have to be responsible for her.

>>760835
...'Evilicious' sounds like a lollipop flavor or something.

>>760853
It probably is. Shaped like a dick or something.

>>760823
>>Crime lord seeks capable assassins to eliminate planetary hero. Must be discreet. Hero may be under protection.
>>Riders Added: Collateral Damage Minimization.
>>Estimated Profit: 16 Motes

Money money money

She needs it, and we might later.

>>760823
>>Government organization seeks deniable assets to exterminate rogue agents.
>>Riders Added: None
>>Estimated Profit: 12 Motes

Not steering you towards any one in particular, but I would recommend that you take into account more than the 'primary' price when voting. Consider other possible reasons like chance of side jobs, possible speed of completion/ease, and other factors.

If you have and still like your vote anyway, IGNORE THIS ENTIRELY.

Also, since this determines the next arc, this vote will last for a bit, just in case.

>>760823
>>Government organization seeks deniable assets to exterminate rogue agents.

>>760823

>Talent Agency seeks physical sabotage and social destruction of rival Idol Magical Girl unit.
>Riders Added: Selective Targeting
>Estimated Profit: 9 Motes
Holy shit MAGICAL IDOL GIRL COMBAT and we can go something else than intimidation this time

>>760823
>>Highly skilled guards needed to defend headquarters from repeated outside threats. Elimination bonuses available.
>>Riders Added: None
>>Estimated Profit: 8 Motes + 2 Motes per major adversary eliminated.

Aww, no one wants to Wild West it up?

>>760823
>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'. Quote: “No Greenhorns.” Long-term contract potential.
>Riders Added: None.
>Estimated Profit: 14 Motes

What is the frontier? Who knows. But there's likely lots of stuff to kill and/or lots of people interested in it, so with Lorelei's help we can try to run a couple of side missions as well.

Well, it might not BE the wild west.

Nah it is SPOILERS.

>>760823
>Government organization seeks deniable assets to exterminate rogue agents
Straightforward hunt and kill job, no riders. We can pretty much cut loose.

>>760823
>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'. Quote: “No Greenhorns.” Long-term contract potential.
I don't like that it'll likely take a long time, but it seems to be the one with the most opportunity for side-jobs, and by having a second agent to handle secondary and tertiary objectives, does seem to provide the chance for most profit.

>>760823
>>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'. Quote: “No Greenhorns.” Long-term contract potential.
>>Riders Added: None.
>>Estimated Profit: 14 Motes

>>760823
>>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'. Quote: “No Greenhorns.” Long-term contract potential.
>>Riders Added: None.
>>Estimated Profit: 14 Motes

All i'm hearing is "Side job" central.

>>760823
>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'

We monster hunter now

>>760823
>>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'.
Side-quest rich enviroment will be fine as we are bringing Lorelei

>>760823
>>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'. Quote: “No Greenhorns.” Long-term contract potential.
>>Riders Added: None.
>>Estimated Profit: 14 Motes

And it's DECIDED.

So. Who here's played Wild ARMS? And Monster Hunter? And Asura's Wrath? And probably a couple of others I forget.

>>760823
>>Organization seeks assistance in 'taming the unruly frontier'. Quote: “No Greenhorns.” Long-term contract potential.
>>Riders Added: None.
>>Estimated Profit: 14 Motes

this sounds like the most fun and safest of all

>>761209
All of the above

And all of them.

>>761209
I loved Wild ARMs 1 and 2. Didn't really get to finish 3, and the TV series was alright but nothing awesome.

>>761209
Oh and handler, when will we go to collect our pay from the girls in the first mission? They should have scraped something together with their part time jobs by now, yea?

>>761252
Don't worry, all in good time.

There's more than one reason I mentioned dues coming up.

>>761209
None of the above.

>>760823
It takes you some time to figure them out- you and Lorelei eventually start discussing each one, with possible issues, pros, cons, etc. There’s a surprising amount you can get out of simple descriptions. That said, there are some things you just can’t figure out until you get there. Nonetheless, you eventually come to a conclusion.

“Well, guess we’re headed to the frontier. Wherever that is,” you note. “You said you don’t have any money for new gear, so do you have anything workable on you already?” You’re not buying her equipment. Your generosity has a limit, after all. “It sounds like we’re going to be doing a lot of fighting, so come dressed to take a punch, is my suggestion.”

“Oh, don’t you worry. I’ve got a couple of old things I can put on,” she dismisses. “I’ll be just fine. So, got any prep you need to make or are you good to go right here? Because if you are, just wait here and I’ll be out in a jiffy.”

>No, I need to get some things looked into before we go…(what?)
>I just have a bit of adjustment to do. Come by my place in a few minutes. (Equipment Time)
>Other

>>761287
> equipment time

>>761287
>>I just have a bit of adjustment to do. Come by my place in a few minutes. (Equipment Time)

>>761287
>I just have a bit of adjustment to do. Come by my place in a few minutes. (Equipment Time)
Less fucking Otherworldly and Intimidation this time, I think.

>>761287
>>I just have a bit of adjustment to do. Come by my place in a few minutes. (Equipment Time)
>Less fucking Otherworldly and Intimidation this time, I think.

>>761287
>>I just have a bit of adjustment to do. Come by my place in a few minutes. (Equipment Time)

>>761287
>>I just have a bit of adjustment to do. Come by my place in a few minutes. (Equipment Time)

>>761287
>>I just have a bit of adjustment to do. Come by my place in a few minutes.

>>761307
Sorry about that. Let's crank up something else this time.

Alrighty, straight to equipment list it is. Writing.

>>761344
What ought we to raise for the Wild West? Hothead? I don't see any benefit from raising Plainness, and Humor might possibly end up doing more harm than good when paired with our naturally high Intimidation.

>>761389
i think we only need to drop our outerworldlyness to about a D or C, and maybe move our intimidation to an A- or B

>>761389
I was actually considering plainness, thinking that it could be social camouflage. Maybe it mutes the visual effects of our gear which may make acquiring and wearing real camo easier.

>>761401
That would be 3-5 ranks off of Otherworldly and 2-4 ranks off Intimidation, unless I'm doing my math wrong.

The thing is that, apart from the Baron's Rapier, I recall most (if not all) equipment working by raising one stat at the expense of another - which means that we'll need to pick some stat or stats to be raised even as we drop Otherworldly and Intimidation.

>>761428
Just remember that we can simply unequip stuff too, they're not clothes.
If there are good pieces in the shopping list I'm sure we can go with a Spartan outfit.

I'm entirely against spending double digit motes.

>>761437
If we're looking to save motes, I don't see anything wrong with simply unequipping the Rapier, Brooch and Cape - giving us +3 Hothead, +2 Plainness, -2 Intimidation and -5 Otherworldly.

>>761447
It's a real shame that Miranda is such a natural at this business, can't go shopping with the other girls because cool gear cramps her style.

>>761287

You shake your head. “I’ve got some adjustments to make to my own gear. Just come by in a few minutes, I’ll be ready by then.” She nods, and you head out. You have to think on this one. Last job, you had gone in expecting to really weird them out- and you did.

Whether that was a good or bad thing...eh, that was debatable.

As you get back and peruse the items, you can’t help but wonder exactly how Lorelei’s going to go...well, it’s out of your hands at the moment. Although you’re fairly confident that however she chooses to make herself look, you can work with it. Now, let’s see…how to work this...

Equipment Shop List: http://pastebin.com/R263U7Hp

Baseline Stats:

Intimidation: B
Humor: D-
Otherworldly: E
Hothead: C
Plainness: D

Current Stats:

Intimidation: A+
Humor: D-
Otherworldly: B-
Hothead: E
Plainness: E

Current Gear:

Miranda's Jacket [Intimidation +1/Plainness -1]

Third Eye Brooch (Otherworldly +3 / Hothead -3)

Noble's Cape (Intimidation +2 / Plainness -2)

Glowing Headband (Otherworldly +1 / Hothead -2)

Weapons: Baron's Rapier ( Otherworldly +2)

>YOU HAVE 38 MOTES.

I have to admit, I'm interested to see how you guys go this time. And if you decide to buy anything new. I won't hesitate to say you guys came within ONE VOTE of job failure last time. But you pulled it out, which was amazing.

>>761473
My vote is for Flamebringer Sword and Blank T-Shirt. The latter is cheap enough so we can keep this job profitable, and it brings down our intimidation to reasonable levels.

>>761473
- Third Eye Brooch (Otherworldly +3 / Hothead -3)
- Noble's Cape (Intimidation +2 / Plainness -2)
- Baron's Rapier ( Otherworldly +2)
+ Flamebringer Sword

>>761473
>Unequip Rapier
>Unequip Brooch
>Unequip Cape

>Buy Amped Knuckle Dusters

>>761482
When we ignored Jackknife by the garage?

>>761531
>>761545
Where are you finding the stats for flamebringer? I cannot see it anywhere

>>761473
we should drop the brooch and the rapier. that should leave us in a reasonable level

>>761473
>Buy nothing, because I am cheap.
>Unequip Third Eye Brooch, Noble's Cape and Glowing Headband.

Gives us a net +5 Hothead, +2 Plainness, -2 Intimidation, -4 Otherworldly, which should, I think, bring our stats to:
>Intimidation: A-
>Humor: D-
>Otherworldly: D+
>Hothead: C-
>Plainness: D-

>>761482
We going to get a review of your thoughts and our decisions in that mission any time? Surely there must have been quite a few things that didn't go to plan.

>>761531
>T-shirt

Are you including the loss of stats from unequipping Miranda's Jacket here? Isn't it fine to just unequip the jacket?

>>761551
When you Buster'd Jackknife. If you hadn't given Ribbit that last piece of the puzzle to put together, she'd have not felt confident enough in her theory to speak out, Shimmer would've pulled them, and you'd have been forced to accept a job failure.

>>761557
Yeah, sure. Maybe not immediately right this second, but probably between runs proper. Maybe after I call this run done for today, even.

>>761551
I can't, actually. I don't think the second interlude thread (Where we geared up for the last mission) got archived. I think it was +1 intimidation booster though.

>>761578
It got archived, but it's under Starborn Quest #14. Someone felt like being cheeky.

No-one wants the cowpoke boots?

>>761582
Ah... That'll do it...

>>761578
I believe it was +1 Intimidation / +1 Otherworldly? Seems a bit counter-productive towards reducing those stats, if that's what we're going for.

>>761557
Hm, With Intimidation at A- and Plainness at D- Lorelei will have to be the party face, and her baseline is that of a joker. We're going to be like that brother duo in those old spaghetti western comedies. I forget what the movies were called.

Not sure what she puts on but we might want to lower intimidation a little actually. It's a wild west frontier and if we look too menacing everyone will shoot at us assuming there's a bounty or plain old just want to bag a bandit because that's what any respectable gunslinger should do.

I suggest
>Clear Sunglasses
>(Plainness +2 / Intimidation -2)
>Price: 2 Motes

or

>Flip Stilletos
>(Humor +1 / Plainness +1 / Intimidation -2)

and scrap the knuckle dusters I put in >>761551

>>761597
Yeah, now that you mention it. But it does have noticeable utility (gives us a less magic-intensive combat option, can melt through steel beams), unlike most of our other equipment which will transform on site.

>>761600
Pretty sure A- is still pretty high.

>Rogue's Cape (+1 Otherworldly / +1 Intimidation / -1 Hothead)
and/or
>Hunter's Longcoat (Intimidation +1 / Humor -1)

could be nice

>>761600
I got it, Trinity and Bambino! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z800MQ0mesA

I mean I really wouldn't mind getting up to this kind of hijinks /at all/, on second thought.

>>761619
Could get both. Stilettos don't have a price listed though. Why's that Handler?

>>761600
Isn't low Plainness better for being a face, since higher Plainness means people are less likely to give you the time of day?

Intimidation being a little lower might be a good idea. Considering >>761616's point, swapping the Rapier for the Flamebringer would bring us to:
>Intimidation: B+
>Humor: D-
>Otherworldly: C-
>Hothead: C-
>Plainness: D-
I'd then be inclined to find something to reduce our Otherworldly in line with our Humor and Plainness.

>>761638
Because I'm a derp. Refresh.

>>761646
Ah, I wasn't really intending to steal the face role, only make us more Normal so that our mere presence won't flub everything up. It would be fun to let Lorelei take charge don't you think?
I felt that increasing our plainness was the least volatile option since it is already so low.

>>761646
I'm mostly OK with these stats. Would like hothead higher though.
>Red Striped Sneakers give Hothead +1 / Otherworldy -1 for one mote.

>>761665
Lorelei is the talky person who gets the jobs, we're the competent one who can focus and actually complete them properly.

Okay, so. Seems like we're unequipping the Brooch, Cape, Headband, and Rapier? And replacing them with the Flamebringer and something else?

>>761665
Given that B- Otherworldly had us look like a literal alien last time, I imagine the upper D / lower C range is the point at which it starts making a significantly noticeable difference, so keeping it down to the D range might be best.

>>761679
That was actually just what I was about to post. Should bring us to:
>Intimidation: B+
>Humor: D-
>Otherworldly: D+
>Hothead: C
>Plainness: D-

Someone double-check my maths please, I don't trust myself.

>>761679
>>761702
I'm going to support this

>>761683
Yeah. Like I said, I want to tone down the intimidation so that we only look competent instead of scaring the pants off of people.

>>761683
No, Lorelei is the somewhat-forgettable, talky jokester who no one takes seriously - her highest stats are Humor and Plainness.

That means that we can be the blatantly-noticeable, intimidating, quick-tempered brawler, who everyone pointedly keeps in their field of vision and treads lightly around, while Lorelei robs them blind.

We can also be the bad cop to her good cop, if necessary.

>>761741
So long as we're the Paid Cop, who cares?

>>761750
You mean, paid robocop.

Okay, so

>Unequip Brooch, Cap, Headband, Rapier.
>Equip Flambringer
>Buy Red Striped Sneakers

?

I'm trying to piece everything together.

>>761766
I say yes to that.

>>761765
We'll be whatever you want, so long as it's in the contract.

>>761766
Sounds fine to me. Will that actually give us the posted stats, or have I fucked up the math?

>>761784
Iiiiii'm getting >>761557 stats, only Hothead as C+.

Like, did I/you forget to buy something? You seemed to waffle over it >>761600 there, but I wasn't sure. THAT'LL bring things to

W/ Sunglasses:

Intim: B
Hum: D-
Other: D+
Hot:C+
Plain: D-

>>761870
I would love to find a way to increase Plain while lowering Hothead

>>761870
This is fine,

File: eye.jpg (57 KB, 488x218)

57 KB JPG

>>761842
Yeah, I thought I'd fucked up somewhere.

>>761870
This would be fine. How much would this cost?

>>761782
Can we be a Zeppelin customised to store and launch aircraft?

>>761883
Would
>Rogue's Cape (+1 Otherworldly / +1 Intimidation / -1 Hothead)
>Worker's Gloves (Plainness +1 / Hothead -1)
put us too high on otherwoldly?

>>761883
There's some gloves you can wear.

>Worker's Gloves
>(Plainness +1 / Hothead -1)
>Price: 1 Mote


>>761898
Glasses and Sneakers would cost 3 motes total. You're mostly unequipping stuff, which costs nothing.

Gonna go ahead and run with >>761870 - this has been a long bit!

Writing.

>>761870
Oh this looks better to my eyes, will be my final vote.

It is past 3am now so I need to sleep, it's up to you guys but that there are stats I'm happy with, what we end up buying to reach them wont bother me terribly.

It seems like the decision is one of the harder ones- if only because you don’t want to risk a repeat of what nearly happened before, and the fact that Lorelei may not be quite what you’re expecting. However, you do manage to come to a decision- you take off a couple of things, buy a couple of nice sneakers and maybe some glasses for that disarming effect. Well, somewhat disarming- you still want to be taken seriously, after all.

>YOU HAVE 35 MOTES REMAINING.

Nonetheless, you’re relatively satisfied for now. Now you’re just waiting for Lorelei. Strangely enough, you’re not too frustrated about getting pulled into a job. You can say you’ve had a decent relaxation period. Didn’t need to get too soft too soon.

There’s soon a knocking, and you open the door. “Heeeey! Whatcha think?”

Lorelei’s dressed in what seems to be some sort of...flared leather pants, a bright pink blouse with frilled cuffs, a pair of nice, shined shoes, rounded glasses, and a...feather boa? Well, not a large one, but yeah. That was a feather boa. “You look...interesting.” is all you can say. But then you notice something a bit new. She’s got a plethora of knives strapped to her person- at LEAST five on each side of her legs.

>Lorelei’s Stats for this mission:

>Intimidation: C-
>Humor: B+
>Otherworldly: E
>Hothead: E+
>Plainness: D+

She nods. “Yeah, you’re not looking too shabby yourself!” She steps in with all the flair of a diva. “Soooo, you ready to rock and roll?”

You nod, and take her hand as you punch in the confirmation. Soon enough... [“i]Weeeelllll, got a new gig, I see? And with sweeeeet Lori, too? Well, allllllrighty then! They’ve been hoping for a response for a little while, sooooo...best of luck, girls!”

There’s a tingle, a flash, and here you go.


JOB STARTED

>>762133
DAMNIT HER PLAINNESS IS C+ I DIDN'T NOTICE.

>>762133
This time, when you flash open, you find yourself...on some sort of stone platform. But not like before. This one is red rock, and clearly naturally made, not carved or anything. And from the looks of things, you’re on some kind of plateau. You can barely see a city in the distance...or probably just a town. But that’s not what’s got your attention right now. No, what’s got your attention are the four men in white suits all pointing swords, muskets, other various weaponry at you.

Lorelei right next to you seems just as startled. “Uhhhh…did we fail before we even start?”

“Buhahahaha!” That was to your left. You turn slowly so as to not startle anyone, and you see what appears to be an older man, salt and pepper hair, pale skin, slightly wrinkled face, and thin glasses, all in a very fancy pinstripe suit and hat with a feather in it, and not at all looking like he should belong out here. “You’ll have to forgive the rough introduction, ladies.” His raspy tenor seems surprisingly playful. “We just weren’t quite sure what might be showin’ up, y’understand? Had a bit of bad luck as of late.” He nods to the men to lower their weapons, which they do. “But to answer you, young lady, no, you have not failed. Allow me to introduce myself.”

He sweeps his hat off his head (revealing a fairly respectable head of hair) and bows with a flourish. “I am Theodore Cain, owner of Cain Rails, Incorporated, and I believe you two and myself have some job details to discuss. If you would follow me?” You both nod, and do so as he begins walking. It’s only now that you notice your own clothing- plain boots, along with a rough leather jacket and vest. Your sword is still in its sheath, under your jacket, and you realize that you as well have glasses on- although they’ve been changed to thin, oval frames. Lorelei has on TIGHT black leather pants, and her shoes appear to have mostly stayed the same- although they look more weighty. Her glasses are also thick, coke bottle glasses, and the feather boa is a long, pink scarf that flows in the wind. Her shirt is an open partway, cowgirl flannel shirt- the type with the swoops and swirl designs around the collar. Fascinating.

“Gotta admit, the clothes are incredible,” Lorelei stage whispers as you’re led off the small plateau, followed by the other men.

Angus laughs, clearly overhearing. “Why thank you, m’am! I do my best to remain in style, as do my associates. Never too dangerous to look one’s best, after all. And who might I have the pleasure of speaking to?” He turns around and offers his hand. “I was under the impression that I’d only be talking to a single lady, although I did say the more the merrier, so…”

“You can call me Grace, sir!” Huh.

And then he turns to you. “And what of you? I take it you’re not much of the speaking sort?”

> “Call me Glory.” It kinda fits. Grace and Glory rolls off the tongue.
> Just grunt and shake your head.
> Other

Done for now! We'll keep this going tomorrow, ideally.

>>762416
>> “Call me Glory.” It kinda fits. Grace and Glory rolls off the tongue.

>>762416
>> “Call me Glory.” It kinda fits. Grace and Glory rolls off the tongue.

>>762416
>“Call me Glory.” It kinda fits. Grace and Glory rolls off the tongue.
We were already pretty close to playing the strong silent type last time, let's see if we can be a little more sociable here.

>>762416
>“Call me Glory.” It kinda fits. Grace and Glory rolls off the tongue.

>> “Call me Glory.” It kinda fits. Grace and Glory rolls off the tongue.

>>762416
> “Call me Glory.” It kinda fits. Grace and Glory rolls off the tongue.

Fucking hell, you guys forget to buy thermoptic camo and night-vision goggles.
What the fuck were you thinking?

>>762416
>Other
"Name's Glory."
Keep it taciturn.

>>762416

You just shrug. “Call me Glory.” The name rolls of the tongue well enough, and...well, it was kinda the first thing you thought of. Still made sense, at least. You take the proffered hand as well- the man’s got a sure grip.

He smiles. “Grace n’ Glory, then! A surely named pair, I daresay! Especially because in these tryin’ times, we could all use a bit o’ grace, in order to keeping strivin’ for more glory.” He chuckles, and you reach a old fashioned stagecoach caravan at the foot of the plateau. Naturally, you end up in the largest one- suitable for at least six people.

He climbs in after you both, and seats himself opposite of you, two of the large men on side of him. “Now then, I suppose we should get to the meat o’ things. Now, as you may have gleaned from my introduction, I am a wealthy man. And I got this way by not only revolutionizing transportation, but by pioneering great technologies. One of those technologies is something I am trying very mightily to introduce to these lands out here. There’s a problem, however!” He leans forwards. “Beasts. Beasts and unruly men roam these lands, m’dears. Monstrous animals what would chomp you in two as soon as look at you! Men that’d prefer to leave you to your own fate than help a fellow out. Nasty folk.” He shudders.

“Oh, I can’t imagine!” Lorelei says in a shocked gasp. “Would folks really be not willin’ to help out a neighbor?”

Theodore scoffs. “Why, a great number of towns across this frontier are like that- out for themselves n’ no one else. Wretched places.” Then he smiles. “But ol' Theodore Angus Cain is no quitter. What I need is good folk that’ll help me bring all this land to heel. Better for me n’ my products, better for travelers, better for everyone!” He spreads his hands wide in excitement. “Of course, there’s resistance- folk afraid of change, or just maybe aren’t wantin’ to risk my handsome face around the ladies, eheheheh…”

The men chuckle with him, as does Lorelei, who gives a girlish giggle. You didn’t think it was funny. “...but, and I’ve told ‘em this, they’ll wither an’ die out without my interjection. I’ve tried diplomacy, dears.” He sighs. “And diplomacy has failed. They’ve taken to physical altercation now- I’ve lost several good men from just as many ruffians as animals.” He shakes his head. “But, I’m leadin’ you on. What’ll be your job is to help clean this land- both of wild beasts and weak-hearted folk both. You’ll be paid handsomely for your troubles, of course.”

“Well, now, that sounds right nice!” Lorelei muses. “P’haps a bit long in the tooth, but I daresay it sounds like somethin’ we can handle, right, Glory?”

>Sounds fine. Where and when do we start?
>I’ve a question…(what?)

>>764426
>>Sounds fine. Where and when do we start?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DD_NCM_RJs

>>764426
>I’ve a question…(what?)
Anything specific we should watch out for?

>>764449
supporting

>>764449
sure

No need to raise your hands here, just ask if you have a question.

Writing.

Are we not going to ask about what exactly these technologies he's pioneered are, to get a heads-up if we can expect any differences from standard Wild West tech levels?

Also, Miranda may or may not have a liking for talking shop about tech.

>>764426
“I’m just wondering if there’s anything out there we need to keep an eye out for,” you note. It sounded like this guy had plenty of enemies. “Just in case someone gets particularly ornery, or something happens that might delay us.”

“Ah, fair question!” he nods. “Indeed, there are a couple of issues out there that may be worth warning about- although I can safely said I know of no one specifically out for my blood- simply the usual disgruntled masses. The normal roaming beasts are one thing, but there are large and fierce monsters out there- the Garran, the Bellicose Dragon, several others that tend to roam the planes. Dangerous, fierce, but rarely do they approach towns- that’s not my concern. My concern is the pathways between those towns for traders- and ideally my future railways.”

“Sounds scary,” Lorelei says, “but we’ll be certain to handle anything what comes out way!”

“Ah, that’s the spirit! Now, we’ll be approachin’ a town I jus’ managed to get amenable to my viewpoints- the sweet little town of Credo. Headed there for some supplies and such, y’see, before we take off for further out towns. When we get there, you both r’ free ta get your legs and enjoy the amenities whilst I do a bit of discussion with the some of the more influential locals, if you care to.”

“The offer’s might appreciated,” Lorelei agrees. You just nod.

When the caravan pulls into Credo, you notice that it’s of a small size- one main street, not much else. You can see a saloon, and an inn nearby, as well as a few other small shops and businesses. The wagon pulls up to a larger house- two stories, and everyone clambers out. You can’t help but notice that a good portion of the community seems to have come out- and they’re not looking exactly welcoming. More like they’re begrudgingly tolerating your presence.

“Don’t mind them, just go on about yours, should you like, and we’ll be settin’ off in a few hours.” Cain dismisses the looks. “O’ course, you could follow me in- I daresay your additional presence wouldn’t be minded.”

>Wander around the town, maybe get some local color and info.
>Accompany Cain to his business meeting, see what he’s all about.
>Other

>>764571
>>Accompany Cain to his business meeting, see what he’s all about.
>>Nod to Lorelei to see the town

>>764571
>Wander around the town, maybe get some local color and info.
We can talk to Cain at any time. It's best to get an idea of what world we've been dropped into, and what others think of Cain that he isn't seeing fit to tell us about.

>several others that tend to roam the planes
>not plains
>planes
They're homophones and close enough in meaning, so I hope that wasn't intentional though it would be far more interesting if it was

>>764598
It wasn't, sorry. I've been so used to using 'planes' in this quest that I mentally defaulted to it when I meant plains for once.

>Make Lorelei do the sightseeing, we'll go to the meeting.

>>764590
This. Need to get some eyes on the town.

Splitting ways, then. Writing!

>>764571
Thinking about it, it’ll be interesting to see what Cain is like in his ‘element’...but you do need to get some eyes on the town and see what the locals think of things. Chances are the situation isn’t quite as clear cut as he made it sound.

You quickly nod to Lorelei, and she manages to get the idea wordlessly. “Think I’ll take in some of the local flavors, then,” she says airily, beginning to walk over to the saloon. “You be careful, now!”

You scoff, and Cain chuckles. “Quite the darling one, she is. Well, then, I’m to take it you’ll be keepin’ me company?” He gives you a respectful nod. “Good, good. You’ve an air about ya. Might help me give these folks we’ll be meetin’ with that last little push of...understandin’. Shall we be off.” You nod, and begin to follow him into the vanilla colored house, quickly being ushered up a set of stairs near the foyer. You can’t help but thing, though...the way he said that. Wonder what exactly he’s up to. Well, chances are you’ll find out sooner than later. Either way, so long as he’s paying you…

>Perspective Shift To Lorelei
>Remain with Miranda

>>764698
>>Remain with Miranda

>>764698
>>Perspective Shift To Lorelei
Miranda will mostly be passively observing, I think, and we can summarize that later.
I'd rather play with this shiny new magical girl for a bit.

>>764698
>>Remain with Miranda

>>764698
>Remain with Miranda

>>764698
>>Remain with Miranda

>>764698
Sticking with traditional flavor, then. Writing!

>>764715
>I'd rather play with this shiny new magical girl for a bit
You are right, other voters were wrong.

>>764698
You eventually find your way up to what appears to be a decently-furnished stateroom, with two people inside- a man and a woman. They’re both fair-haired, with tanned skin from working long hours in the sun. The man’s wearing what you actually might describe as some sort of armored vest- it has some metal plating in it, but otherwise seems thin, and he’s got an interesting looking revolver by his side. There’s a subtle yellow glow from it, but you can’t quite tell what’s the source. The woman is dressed more casually, in jeans and a blouse, but she’s also got a rifle, this one with a faint red glow around the chamber. Hm. So, is this how this world’s magic works…?

Cain greets them both with casual ease. “Mr. and Mrs. Willowby, a pleasure! Mighty glad to see you folks come around to my way of thinkin’.”

Mrs. Willowby just snorts. “I wouldn’t call it quite that,” Mr. Willowby grouses. “You know as well as I do we don’t want none of your fake men here. The railway’s fine, but as for your others...”

“Oh, but I assure you, ya do want these.” Cain responds. “Why, were they not here, you’d be havin’ quite the difficult time what with the latest hazards coming in from the frontier, I assure you. Didn’t you know?” He asks as if he’s surprised when they raise their eyebrows. “There’s quite the buzz goin’ around about towns with no railways getting squeezed by folks for their goods, their women, their livestock. A real epidemic! Now, I of course have my particularly capable men and women-” here he gestures to you, and you notice Mrs. Willowby giving you a wary eye. “-but I daresay not everyone can afford that- not even some of my workers. And I’ve given you a bargain price, to boot!”

“And you’re just not able to use ‘em to make your railways and move on?” Mr. Willowby near yells.

Cain shrugs. “Progress isn’t cheap, my friend. And they’re not much built for workin’ like such. Mind you, I never said you HAD to purchase them….”

“No, you implied it rather strongly…” Mr. Willowby says. “And I’m not much for your implications.”

Cain just chuckles. “Well, tis your interpretation. Really, so long as you sign on the dotted line and allow us our initial payment, I think we’ll be fine.” He fishes out a piece of paper, and places it in front of Willowby. “We’ll be here only until the railway finishes, and then we all can move on with our lives.”

Willowby sighs, then reaches for his pen. Before he can, though, you all hear a commotion out the door. “What on earth…”

cont.

>>764960
Before long, someone barges in. Long haired, scraggly, and torn shirt and pants with no belt. He looks emancipated and wild. “Don’t you- don’t you try it, you madman!” Before he can get two feet, however, he’s blocked off from entering by two of the white clothed guards. “He’s a tyrant, he is!” the old coot yells. “A thief, a demon, and a liar! You let him in here, he’ll never leave! One problem after another’ll show up that he’ll so generously fix, until he’s running the whole town, jus’ like Argio! And just like how he's been sendin' all those ruffians here to hassle us, too!”

Cain shakes his head. “Argio was unfortunate, but I had to put the town under my protection if only to keep it standing, dear sir.” He turns back to Willowby. “I assure you, that won’t happen here unless you let it- and it doesn’t sound like you will, right?”

“Don’t do it!” the man yells. Mrs. Willowby just looks from him to the paper, and sighs.

“Wendell, please." she tries to affect a gentle tone. "I understand Argio was on the border of collapsin’ from all the trouble there. We’re not nearly in such dire straits- and I’d say we’re both a sight smarter than Hank Trundle. We'd spot if something was so off.”

Willowby nods. “She’s right. We won’t be taken so easily.” With no further fanfare, he grabs his pen and signs. “We’ll keep an eye on everything.”

Wendell howls. “You fool! You’ve just signed our death warrant! Signed it!”

Cain just sighs. “Could y’all please…?” The men nod, grab him, and lead him away.

“SIIIIIIIGNED IT!” the strange man yells. Weirdo.


-----

A few minutes later, and you’re stepping out along with Cain, who’s brushing off his hat. “Well, then, Ms. Glory, I think that went rather well. Just need to pick up some rations, and we’ll be off.”

> “Fine.” Stick with him, timeskip to departure.
> “I’ll get Grace.” Go find her and see if she’s learned anything interesting before you leave.
> Ask him a question.
> Other

>>764971
> Ask him a question.
Could we expect more trouble from Wendell in the future?

>>764971
> Ask him a question
"Fake men?"

>>764992
this

>>764971
>> “I’ll get Grace.” Go find her and see if she’s learned anything interesting before you leave.

>>764971
>>764992
supporting

>>764971
>“I’ll get Grace.” Go find her and see if she’s learned anything interesting before you leave.

> “Fine.” Stick with him, timeskip to departure.
Awesome, so we're bodyguards for the crooked asshole that the plucky dukes need to outsmart? Where's Shane?

>>765443
We've been hired to kill the plucky heroes.
What's wrong with that, as long as we get paid?
And if the guy is dumb enough to double-cross us, then that means we get to go on a plundering spree after we kill him.
I see no downsides to this contract.

There's a particular phrase that was said earlier that is still stuck in your head. Now might as well be the best time to ask him about it. “If you don't mind, what exactly did he mean by ‘fake men’?” Cain simply laughs.

“They’re the way of the future, sweetheart! A mechanical marvel meant to make everyone’s lives easier, more comfortable! The Metallos! My personally devised metal menservants! Each and every one capable of more than a normal man, and with no need to eat, drink, or sleep! They’re certainly no true replacement for good old hard work, but I daresay they’ll be quite essential item out here on the frontierlands.” Ohhh. Robots, huh? Interesting. Wonder what kinds of AI it has. Or if it had haptic feedback, or anything else like that. Some of these places had weird definitions of what they called automatons. “I anticipate you’ll see one sooner or later while you’re out on the job. Maybe even meet a member of the board, should you do well enough.”

A board of directors? Huh. Fascinating. And for something like this…

Before you can get anything else of out him, however, one of the soldiers comes back, whispering something in his ear. You see him get a dark look on his face rather quickly before he suddenly turns to you. “Beggin’ your pardon, but there’s an incident I need to see to. Feel free to have some time to yourself, hm?” And but a grim smile, he walks off down the road without waiting on a response.

Hmph. And Lorelei still isn’t back yet. Then again, it hasn’t been TOO long. She probably won’t be back for a bit longer- likely dredging the social well for info. Hopefully she’s doing good.


>Just wait there, none of your business.
>Go seek out Lorelei. Maybe join her in whatever.
>Follow Cain. Wonder what ‘incident’ this is.
>Other


Run may be slooooowed down until later tonight due to circumstances. Still seeing how things shake out.

>>765469
If he's doing all this so he can "own" towns. Does that mean we might get to do some good old fashion pillaging to make up the money if he double crosses us?

>>765469
I don't see the problem with it. I'm more worried about the moralfags and the egdefags.

>Follow Cain
>Switch to Lorelei PoV.

>>765488
>Go seek out Lorelei. Maybe join her in whatever.

>>765492
We get free reign to get what is owed to us. So why not?

Oh, now, none of that. You've been hired to kill giant monsters and lawless gangs, of course! If some fool or fools decides to try and enact frontier justice just because they don't like Cain's obviously and totally above board methods, then that problem may well be within your purview to solve...

>>765488
>Go seek out Lorelei. Maybe join her in whatever.
Might as well check out some of that local flavor ourselves if he doesn't want us along for this part.

>>765488
>Go seek out Lorelei. Maybe join her in whatever.

>>765520
You say that, but I'm just hearing "extort Cain so we can get bonus payments".

Just make sure to ask for payment FIRST before we solve any new problems that arise.

>>765520
Nuthin' personnel, kid.

>>765546
>You say that, but I'm just hearing "extort Cain so we can get bonus payments".
>Just make sure to ask for payment FIRST before we solve any new problems that arise.
No, bad. We want to stay on good terms with our employers so we get repeat business. Just like with all our other employers, we stay professional and worthwhile employee.

>>765488
>>Go seek out Lorelei. Maybe join her in whatever.

>>765512
This

>>765546
Don't do that. We work for our employer, not our barely existent morals.

Handler, do we have a SOP for Working for Evil Employers? Price gouging, blackmail, stay professional, be inefficient, be the perfect employee, dick around?

>>765632
This. Could be that's our morals: 'You pay me, I work for you.'

>>765633
Get Paid.

Miranda doesn't particularly mind working for evil employers, and they tend to pay well, although the risk of them TRYING to fleece you is higher than when you work for heroic sorts. The first thread details her thoughts on the matter.

>>765636
I mean, we're 91 years old and we have /absolutely/ seen what happens when someone can't pay their dues.

>>765636
We ahead know that Miranda is loyal to money. If she gets paid, she works. That's it.

>>765744
this. She can exterminate a city if only she gets paid by her employer. She won't feel good, or bad about it, but she'll still do it.

>>765488
Well, whatever he’s up to, it’s none of your business. Not yet, anyway. Might as well take a look around- maybe catch up with Lorelei. She’s probably still in the saloon, you figure, so that’s the first place you head towards. You can see people already giving you a wide berth, save for a few that settle for scowling. One or two in particular almost seem like they’re going to accost you- but that doesn’t happen. Despite the hostility in the air, you make it to the saloon unscathed.

What you see there doesn’t really surprise you much. A bunch of mostly surly looking types, with a few more casual shirts in the crowd. Everyone seems to be mostly talking or arguing with each other- and you can see Lorelei in the corner, chatting up what appears to be an older man- large bellied but not grotesquely so, and in fitting overalls, with a jolly smile on his shaved face- and from the looks of the red on it, a fair number of drinks in his stomach. Lorelei’s fixed his eyes to hers, and she seems to be doing quite well in having the man talk for as long as she likes.

She clearly notices you- giving a one-finger wave- and there’s a bit more chatting, and the man nods as she pats his arm, saying something to him. He nods, and excuses himself, walking away and passing by you with a quick nod and ‘excuse me’ before he makes it out the doorway. You quickly slip into the space he occupied, sitting across from your friend. “Who was that?”

“Prospector.” She says simply, her voice lowered. “Been here for a while, trying to figure out the local methods.” She leans in, as do you. “They use stone and talisman magic here. Apparently it all comes from the stuff they dig up.” she shrugs. “Few have innate magic, or at least they have too little to do anything direct with it. It exists, but the majority of it all comes from minerals they find and shape. They use that little innate magic they have to trigger the effects of what they make. Talismans, runes, that kinda stuff.”

Hm. That’s not good for your mana regeneration, you don’t think. Then again, if the magic comes from specific areas in the earth...hm. As far as you might guess, chances are it’d be Very Low, for the most part, so you’ll have to watch yourself on any big stunts unless you find some kinda wellspring.

“So, I’m guessing things went okay with the business talks?” Lorelei asks.

“Mostly,” you respond. “There was a brief interruption, but it was resolved quickly enough.”

“Hm. Can’t say I’m surprised,” she remarks. “Wonder when we’ll be starting, officially.”

You shrug.

>So, what do the locals think about Cain? Besides the obvious?
>There’s something he’s doing involving robots, apparently…
>Any relevant rumors you’ve heard yet?
>Other

Ugh, that took way too long.

>>768629
>>There’s something he’s doing involving robots, apparently…

>>768629
>>So, what do the locals think about Cain? Besides the obvious?

Rolled 1 (1d2)

Flipping for choice, then.

1: Mention bots
2: See public opinion.

>>768629
“He’s mentioned something involving robots, I know that much,” you say. Lorelei’s never really been too into technology as far as you know, but she still looks somewhat interested, at least.

“Really, now? That seems...kinda out of place, I think.” She threads her hands together. “Wonder how that came about.”

“Apparently he just thinks it’s the next big thing. It’s part of what he’s trying to bring out here, and apparently the locals aren’t fans.” You shrug. “It’s not really my concern, but it is interesting, and I figured you might as well be in the know in case something else happens.”

She nods. “Makes sense. If they’re worried it’ll put some folks out of business or something…but, well, at least we’ll be fine,” she notes. “Most people here seem really on edge, though. I’m wondering if we’re gonna leave soon, before something starts up…”

“He seemed like he was going to,” you say. “So, hopefully whatever he’s taking care of doesn’t take too long.”

After a few drinks, you both head out, only to find Cain and his men standing around discussing something. As you approach, his grin widens. “Aahh, well there! Just who I was about to go lookin’ for! Good news, ladies, your job’s about to begin! He starts walking back to the stagecoach before you can ask anything. “Seems like there’s a nasty group of lawbreakers on their way here. I’ve been told that they’ll be here by sunset. Fortunately, I will not be. Rather, you two will be the ones to meet them. I understand you’re rather strong sorts, correct? Tis the reason your services were acquired, after all...”

“That’s right,” Lorelei says. “How many of ‘em?”

“A quartet, apparently.” Cain answers. “Go by the Red Eagles, it’s claimed. Now, I’ve got to get goin’- plenty more places I need to discuss business with, and time IS money. At the moment, I’m trustin’ you two to handle ‘em before they can do or say anythin’ what might lead this town astray or end up causin’ a ruckus, understand?”

>Any other questions?
>Understood.
>Other

>>769197
>Understood.

>>769197
>>Understood.

>>769197
>>Any other questions?
Any history on the leader? What about where they usually hole up?

I'll continue this tomorrow, since there's basically a fight coming up.

>>769197
>Understood.

With the low magic regen, we'll need to actually be careful.

We should get a viola case to carry extra equipment when we go on missions.
IR goggles, thermoptic camo, guns, shield generators, medkits, and extra power cells.

>>770575
I've been asking for that since thread 2.
Other anons just won't do it. It's dumb considering that those equipment would really help in creating more tactical options for us.

Will be resuming in 30.

>>770755
we might be able to get some of of that stuff here, though. At least the power cells (that i suppose are mana reserves)

>>769197
You nod. “Understood.”

Lorelei pipes up, however. “How do we get in contact with you once we’re through?”

Cain simply reaches into his pocket and hands Lorelei a map, and yourself a thick stack of bills. “You’ll have to reach me the traditional way, I’m afraid. Either that or send a runner to the next town over. I’ll be visitin’ a couplea settlements like this, is the intention: Saint Augustine, Redrock, Motlay, aaaand...Gaugetown, I believe is the last one?” He looks to one of his men, who nods. “Right! You can likely send me a message through one of those, or head me off if’n your so inclined. But do remember your duties- I ain’t expectin’ ya for a while, now. In fact, I’d suggest you head on over to Corson. That’s east o’ here, not too far, but it’s a bit closer to one o’ the major trade lines- and because of that, it’s one of the towns what’s gettin’ a bit more troubled as of late due to rampagin’ beasts.” He then nods at the money. “That there is for acquirin’ yourselves some nights’ rest and meals, as well as should be enough for a horse. Sixteen-hundred bills in that bundle, so make sure you spend wisely, alright?”

“Oh, we won’t let a single bill go to waste!” Lorelei promises.

“See that ya don’t. Come on now, boys! We’ve got a ride ahead of us!” Cain gets into the stagecoach, and they make haste out of the area. What's left...is a lot of strangers looking at you with angry and uncertain eyes. One or two of the tougher looking folks spit on the ground in your direction. Great.

“Well…” Lorelei sighs. “Might as well get ourselves knowledgeable. I dunno anything about these Red Eagles, but I suspect we can find out.”

>Agreed. Any ideas how?
>I'm not sure if people would all that willing to say anything.
>Let’s see what this place has in terms of weapons and such first, just in case.
>Other

>>770898
>>Let’s see what this place has in terms of weapons and such first, just in case.

>>770898
>>Agreed. Any ideas how?
>>Let’s see what this place has in terms of weapons and such first, just in case.

>>770898
>>Let’s see what this place has in terms of weapons and such first, just in case.

>>770898
>>Let’s see what this place has in terms of weapons and such first, just in case.

>>770898
>Let’s see what this place has in terms of weapons and such first, just in case.

Shopping first, then! Writing.

>>770898

“Let’s check out the local stores, before we do anything else. Might be some gear we can use.” You offer.

Lorelei nods. “Yeah, sure, that makes sense.” And so you both set off down the street. Despite the looks and occasional threatening gesture (which you couldn’t really care less about), no one does anything to you. Quickly you can see a few places that might be worth looking into- there’s a gunsmith, and what appears to be a more traditional blacksmith and runesmith a couple houses down. There’s also a general goods store a bit further away.

“You think we’ll need any of those guns? I’d say we should at least pick up a talisman or rune or two,” Lorelei muses. “If only ‘cause from what I noticed, it doesn’t seem like guns are all that common around here- or maybe ammo’s just rare.”

Huh. Actually, you DID notice that it seemed that guns were a rarer sight than you expected. The town leaders had one apiece, and you noticed one or two other folk that had a holster, and of course a couple of Cain’s men had guns. But most everyone else, you can see some kind of sword or club or other bladed weapon. Strange technology progression, if that was the case.

>Let’s look at guns, first. Might be more of an advantage than we thought.
>Let’s see what they have at the blacksmith, then.
>Let’s just see what they have for general supplies. We’ll need them for later.
>Other

>>771048
>>Let’s look at guns, first. Might be more of an advantage than we thought.

>>771048
>Let’s look at guns, first. Might be more of an advantage than we thought.
After that, we should check out those runes, see if they can give us some bonuses or something.

Also, did we bring any motes in here to turn into local currency? Or does our FutureSight thingy have a debit card function on it?

>>771048
>>Let’s look at guns, first. Might be more of an advantage than we thought.

>>771048
Bang bang.

Writing!

Actually, gimme a minute, will be back.

>>771048
>>Let’s look at guns, first. Might be more of an advantage than we thought.

>>771191
Since it's downtime between post's, now's as good a time as any to get questions.

This will mark the first time we've been on a decidedly low-mana plane, what will this mean for our use of even basic magic?(magi-blast, our physical buff, using the flamebringer) Since it seems like we won't actually regen almost anything, should we be conservative with 1 and 2 mana type casts?

>>770755
Handler said there would be time to grab that stuff in this thread, but then he never presented the option. There was an Other before the vote decided to skip to the equipment list. I have to assume that was the window.

>>771935
>but then he never presented the option.
He always presents the option via "Other".
It's not his fault if players are stupid and shortsighted.

>>771698
>should we be conservative with 1 and 2 mana type casts?
Obviously yes. We also won't be able to use Nebula Buster, and our healing magic is very mana-intensive, meaning that we have to be careful not to get hurt.

>>772295
Well, no.

Obviously we still started at 9999 mana, and Blaster takes up less than half of that, so we could do it like once comfortably. though I'm not a big proponent of it, let's get some old timey duels and shit going

What's actually a problem is keeping up our physical enhancement, which is arguable going to be our biggest advantage when throwing around magi-blasts willy-nilly isn't a sustainable option.

I just want to know how much it costs us per day to keep it up.

I wasn't back. I hate my job. I'll answer questions.

>>771698
Correct- even basic shot stuff will drain you. I do have a number amount for each of them, they just weren't in there. It IS rather low, however. I'll update later, but magi-blasts are 2 points of of mana a pop normally, charged is 10.

Magi-wave is 5 normal, 15 charged.

Physical boost is, at an estimate, around 150 per day. She's very used to keeping it on, so it doesn't mess with her near as much as it used to. Hearing and danger scent are so low I won't bother you with them. Shocking Touch is 25, Energy Channel is 30 with a 10 drain per hour.

Flamebringer takes 10 to activate, 15 to use it like a torch.

You can see why I glossed over such small numbers, barring physical boost, maybe.

>>771935
You and >>772295 are right- I usually present it via Other. Kinda surprised no one went for it.

Anything else? I won't be available to run tomorrow, might as well ask as many questions as you care to.

>>771048
>Let’s look at guns, first. Might be more of an advantage than we thought.

I'm glad you guys picked wild frontier, though the other options looked pretty fun.

It looks like the robots are powered by the runes and talismans, and I expect the guns are as well. The inventions might all be rune powered and the corporation wants a monopoly on the digging up of all the new supplies.

>>773911
How rich are we? We seem to be doing a good number of jobs that pay well, and magical girls are set up to be the top money makers in the setting.

>>775654
You're doing okay for yourself. MGs are some of the richer folk, but your current state of affairs is more a testament to the job itself. That and with dues coming...anyway, the Outgoer's District is fairly sizable, and you're in a fairly basic apartment. Nothing trash, but nothing extravagant either.

You guys never DID spring for the better apartment I hinted at, but that's kinda my fault since I really didn't push for it or anything.

>>775713
when exactly could we have gotten the better apartment?

I know Izumi has a favor from sal, but I don't recall any point where it even came up for miranda.

>>775865
It was explicitly set out that Miranda could now easily afford a new apartment after the contract with the New Moon.

>>775983
Which honestly makes me very very confused about the relative value of things. Costume bits are multi-mote expenses and Miranda has a two digit sum of motes. But that's enough for a goddamn fancier apartment? Either rooming is dirt cheap here or she's getting jewed hardcore for clothes.

>>775995
Clothes aren't just pieces of cloth held together by thread and made in a dirt-poor universe and imported by the ton.
They're magical effect items that alter our appearance when we go out to other universes.

>>775995
It was mentioned that a large building costs around 50 motes, and most regular goods seem to cost around 1-5 motes. I guess cost of living is a bitch in the intersection.

Why do we need a fancier apartment? Miranda's the type to like being frugal.

>>776939
She's professional, yes, but she isn't a robot. I can't honestly imagine her not appreciating a sweet hot tub or some shit.

>>777031
>>776939
IMO it would depend on the rent price differences.

why rent when we could buy one? or are we renting because we avoid being or have a big "tax" levy because we owned a lot of thing and has a high salary.

Coming off a 12 hour workday.

I've still got some fire left in me if anyone's here.

...also should I start another thread?

>>780550
It might be best to start another thread, yeah.

>>780550
still here, new thread might catch more people, though this one is only at 220 replies so...

Yeah, I figure because bump limit passed because goddamnit I need a better job.

Anyway, I'll write up the next post, then begin the new thread.

And there it is.

>>780811
>>780811
>>780811