>>823973
Last time on Hero Guardian Quest:


Lin woke up to find herself nearly left behind on the assault on the Western Front. She quickly woke Chao, who’d stayed behind, and found herself being teamed with Yu, whom had cut off her hand earlier. Refusing to forgive her transgressions, the trio headed out after deciding to assist with the Breach.


The mission went well, up until the humans detonated a part of the village assaulted that slew scores of both humans and Awoo. With rage and fury in her heart, and the White Wolf’s power fueling her, Lin led the charge against the humans, and slew her way to the Masked Twins- a powerful brotherly duo, alongside Yu.


This resulted in Yu being thrown off a cliff, the White Wolf leaving Lin as she attempted to save Yu, and the successful murder of one of the brothers...only for the other to receive some sort of dark power, which resulted in Lin losing her right leg and left arm, and passing out from the pain shortly afterwards.

And it's back.

>>824010
You’re not sure whether you’re alive or dead at the moment. You can feel...nothing...but at the same time you feel restless. Like there’s boundless energy around you, but none of it comes from you. You can’t see anything- not even your own body. Simply an inky void. Perhaps this is what limbo feels like...how long will you be like this? Is this your fate?

You can hear mutterings of faceless voices, words and sounds that you can’t make heads or tails of, that sound like they’re coming from everywhere and nowhere at the same time. Some of them sound louder than the others, and some are soft and warm sounding. And yet you can make none of it out- like it’s simply being muffled and scrambled and spoken in ten different languages. Even trying to hear clearer is impossible.

And yet throughout all this, there is still something that overwhelms your sense of being, something that gnaws at your core- a regret that tears at you and causes your soul to burn and shake whenever you think of it.

>The fact that you couldn’t kill that bastard Segwick. It’s sickening that he yet breathes.
>The fact that Yu died and you couldn’t save her. Perhaps you could have been faster somehow…
>The idea that this may have been your best chance to prove yourself useful to the Awoo, and you may have squandered it at the end.
>Other

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We back?

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>>824051
We back. Shonen has given me all his notes, and permission to take the story how I'd like. We are continuing where things left off.

>>824040
>>The fact that Yu died and you couldn’t save her. Perhaps you could have been faster somehow…

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>>824040
>>The fact that Yu died and you couldn’t save her. Perhaps you could have been faster somehow…

>>824040
>>The fact that Yu died and you couldn’t save her. Perhaps you could have been faster somehow…

>>824072
Don't know if you know but there is thread #15 which was not archived on suptg
http://archived.moe/qst/thread/488178

>>824086
Oh damn. No, I did not know that. Well. That's...less than pleasing.

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>>824109
Ya goofed

>>824040
Wait a sec, was Yu actually kill? I could have sworn she was saved and I was mad. Better if she's dead, I guess.

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>>824096
WUPSIES!

>>824121
Okay, yeah, I screwed up. You guys want to just start from #14 since it was the last on suptg and keep going with this thread, or should I restart with this new information? I had made my plans based around #14 being the last thread made. My apologies for not investigating better.

>>824164
What happened in thread 15? I'd say continue from here since we're already here.

>>824164
Unless anyone has said anything else, it's up to you as far as I'm concerned. Could do a bit of both, I guess?

>>824179
>Lin wakes up
>Yu is alive and Chao is there
>Rushi comes along
>Tells us to sit down, shut up, and rest after patting our shoulder
>We head back towards safety
>When passing through the cave underground, Lin is separated from Yu and Chao and ends up leaving the cave and entering a dead and rotten forest.
>It's implied the forest is the same as Ryoutarou is in
That's where it ended

>>824194
Retcon pls, Yu should have been killed off.

If it's up to me, we're doin' the Time Warp and this takes place after #14. I just wanted public opinion.

>>824194
>>824202
This. Yu = ded = gud.

>>824204
Actually, that's probably for the best. That way you're more prepared, riiiight?

>>824212
I would be/am, yes.

Okay, so it sounds like people are down. Thank you very much, and I'll do my best to prove your faith in me justified.

Writing for regrets over Yu. Not you, Yu.

>>824040
Yu...you’ll never forget what happened. The scream, that fear in her eyes...as her bag had went up in smoke, so had her possibilities of recovery. It would have been a miracle for her to survive such a fall. You can only pray that she hadn’t suffered at the end of it. Another promise broken...too many promises broken. Damnit...that White Wolf had held you back...if it hadn’t been so insistent...no, no. It’s hard to actually blame it, you find. Perhaps you simply weren’t fast enough...maybe it was just your fault. Again. How, though…? How can you stop this? What needs to change? SOMETHING needs to change...

The noises get louder, suddenly, and it’s causing you a strange pain- like a thousand needles pricking at your body, and that body is flattened and spread like a sheet of paper. Painful, disturbing, unusual...and you just want it to stop...stop! STOP-

“-STOP!” You jerk upright, panting and sweating like you’ve never had before. You look at your surroundings wildly, to see that you’re once again inside the same bed that you were in before leaving on the mission. This time, however, there’s only one person in the room with you- and it’s not one you expected to see.

Mei. She’s standing to the left of the doorway, and watching you with careful eyes. “Ah...you’re awake. Figured you’d be up sooner than they thought. When we found you, I thought maybe you’d finally bitten it.” She sighs, and you can see her try to smile, but she doesn’t quite get there. “Glad I was wrong.”

You’re not sure what to say to her, however. You’re aware you still had your friendship with her, but you had gotten the feeling that it was someone tenuous in areas.

>...thanks. I mean that.
>...So what happens to me now?
>Where’s Chao?
>Other

>>824341
>>...So what happens to me now?

>>824341
>Where’s Chao?

>>824341
>...thanks. I mean that.
>Where’s Chao?

>>824341
>>...thanks. I mean that.
>Where’s Chao?
I don't remember much, but she was like our only real friend yeah? Better take care of her I guess.

>>824361
Mei was 'the bitch' who cooled off. Ming is the longtime friend.

>>824368
God damn it. Doesn't change my vote though, she's alright.

>>824341
You sigh, trying to calm yourself down a bit. The way Mei’s looking at you makes you realize that you’re probably looking at her like a...a wild-eyed crazy person. Not the best way to keep yourself in her good graces, or keep yourself steady. “Thanks, Mei.” She starts to say something, but you quickly cut her off. “No, I mean it. Thank you.” The fact that she, from what you can tell, helped recover you, and saw it in herself to keep watch (or guard, but you don’t want to think on that much) meant a lot to you. You can see her shift slightly as she lets a bit of tension out of her shoulders as you calm down as well.

“It’s...it’s fine,” she says, although she sounds like she’s exhausted.

“Where’s Chao?” you can’t help but ask. “Last time he was here, he…” you shake yourself free from those all-too-recent memories. “I wouldn’t have been surprised if he wanted to have words with me.”

Mei shrugs as she leans back on the wall tiredly. “I don’t know much about what went on at that fight, but him, Rushi and some of the others Captains have been debating back and forth all day. I don’t know what about, but Chao asked me to watch you while he hashes it out with them.” She winds up sitting on the floor. “Ming asked me to tell you she wishes she could be here, and she wanted to visit as soon as she knew you were awake. I’m ordered to stay here until Chao gets back, though, and you’re not supposed to go anywhere without me if you DO wake up.”

Ah. That figures. You finally take a moment to check yourself over- you’ve healed yourself yet again- perhaps due to Shen Ku? At that, you remember your Guardian Blade- it rests on the opposite side of the doorway from Mei, cleaned and well-kept, fortunately. But you feel strangely lethargic and dulled in body, if not in mind. You’re normally not so much after resting, but this time…this is different. It’s then that something hits you- if you fainted back at the battlefield, but woke up in a hut...you’ve been unconscious for at least several hours.

> “How long have I been out?”
> Get up. It’s time to find out what’s been going on.
> “Could you send for Ming for me, then?” You could really use an old friend's presence.
> Other

>>824508
>> Get up. It’s time to find out what’s been going on.

>>824508
>> “How long have I been out?”
>> Get up. It’s time to find out what’s been going on.
We're totally badass and can just walk this off, lets go investigate.

>>824508
>> “How long have I been out?”
>> Get up. It’s time to find out what’s been going on.

Get up. Get moving.

Writing!

>>824508
That’s distressing. “How long have I been out?” you ask. “Last thing I remember was passing out on the ground…” Hopefully, not too much time had passed between then and now- perhaps it was just the journey home? She did say you woke up earlier than expected.

“About two days,” Mei responds. She grimaces at the look on your face- likely she may have presumed similar about your rapid recovery times. Sucks that both of you were a bit wrong on that front.

“Two days?” you can’t help but exclaim. What could the captains and Chao be clamoring about for two days? That’s more than enough for you to conclude you need to get out of bed. You tear your sheets off, much to the protests of Mei. She won’t prevent you from doing this, though. Muscles groaning from disuse, you swing your legs out. As your feet hit the floor, however...you suddenly lose strength, wobbling to the ground and barely able to catch yourself with your hands. Mei is quick to race over to provide help.

“See what I mean?” she says with a bit of that old attitude. “You’ve been sleeping like the dead. Give yourself a bit of time to wake up, at least.” Despite saying that, she loops your arm around her head. “If you’re going to be stubborn about it, at least let me help you up.”

It takes some minutes before you’re able to stand on your own two feet steadily, but soon enough you’re back upright, and now’s the time to find out just what you’ve missed. You grab your Guardian Blade, and Mei accompanies you as you head out the door- you can see that she’s nervous just from looking at her. At the very least, you both know where you’re most likely headed- the Guardian Quarters.

You can see some people looking at you strangely. Several with respect, some with concern and fear yet. All of them get out of your way rather quickly whenever they cross your path.

You’re so focused on getting there that the time passes quickly, but before you can even arrive properly, you can see Rushi, Chen’dao, and Chao all walking down the hill. Rushi is straight-faced as ever, and the other two are doing their best to imitate him.

Rushi looks at you with some surprise. “Raubtier. You are awake. This wasn’t expected.”

Chen’dao chuckles. “Kinda figured she’d not be sleepin’ fer long.”

Chao just smirks, and shakes his head. “Can’t believe you…”

“What’s happened since I was out?” you ask immediately.

“Debates and debriefings about the battle.” Rushi responds. “You did well in galvanizing everyone together in the Vanguard. For that you have my gratitude...and my apologies for your loss.” Ah. So… “I was informed by eyewitnesses. We scoured the fields and cliffs, just in case, and…” he looks away. “All we could find was a limb.” He finishes grimly.

Damnit...DAMNIT!

Mei looks to you concernedly, as you try to keep yourself together.

>Ask about what comes next for you.
>Ask about further details of the Assault.
>Inform him about the fact that you may be able to speak to humans now.
>Other

>>824843
>>Ask about further details of the Assault.

>>824843
>>Ask about further details of the Assault.
Pretty sure we're supposed to keep that last thing under wraps.

>>824843
>>Ask about what comes next for you.
>>Ask about further details of the Assault.

>>824843
So. What happened after we took a dirty nap (but not a dirt nap)? Writing!

>>824843
You have to shake that feeling off before it overwhelms you- she was a Blood Guardian. Blood Guardians die, it’s expected. And she was kind of crazy anyway! She cut off your arm for tree’s sake! No, no, no more thinking about it. You fix Rushi with a level stare, the tears successfully held back for now. “May I ask what the results of the assault were?” you inquiry.

Rushi and the others look to each other, and Rushi motions you to follow him as he resumes walking down the hill. “Overall, a success,” he states. The few humans that remained after your collapse quickly broke and fled, scattering and, we presume, are attempting to link up in other locations with their fellows. We’ve attempted to keep track of them, but it’s proving draining- we’ve already lost many good Awoo, and so we’ll need to be more careful. We’re also aware of the Black Flower. I saw the black, fiery mist flying away from the top of this hill, and sent a pair of teams that I could spare after it at the time.” He sighs. “Only three came back. We are aware, however, that he seems to be headed North for some reason.”

“No clue why,” Chen’dao states. “E’s travelin’ alone, too. Got something in mind, no doubt. We’re worried, but ain’t too much we can do right now.”

“We’re thinking he’s preparing for something major,” Rushi says as you all reach the foot of the hill. “We’ve told the Realm Guardians to make certain to prepare for anything in the coming days. I fear things may get worse at this state before they get a bit better.”

“Gotta admit, you tore through most of those humans,” Chao complements. “But that last guy looked...well…” he grimaces. “I dunno what to make of that.”

“In the meantime, Raubtier, you deserve a bit of rest,” Rushi states. You’re about to complain, but he holds up a hand to silence you. “No complaints. We’ll do our best to find out what will be happening and stop it, but as it stands we need more than a couple of days to plan and recover. If it makes you feel better, you waking up was unexpected, and will likely move our timetable forward a few days.”

Chao chuckles at that, but a look from Rushi stops him. With that, Rushi nods, and he and Chen’dao head off. Chao just takes a look at Mei. “Alright, thanks for playin’ babysitter.”

Mei snorts. “I wasn’t babysitting anything.” But she walks off anyway after a last friendly look and pat on the shoulder to you.

Chao looks back at you with a wry grin. “Well. That didn’t last long, did it?”

By the tree, you want to punch him. But he's right. Yu's dead, and now it is, once again, just you and Chao.

> “If there’s nothing else…” (leave)
> “Do you know where that leaves us?”
> “So what are you going to do now?”
> Other

>>825212
>> “So what are you going to do now?”
Chao's a cool guy, I never got all the hate he got back then.

>>825212
>> “So what are you going to do now?”

>>825212
>> “So what are you going to do now?”

>>825231
>Chao's a cool guy, I never got all the hate he got back then.
He's been a major pain in the ass and an asshole up until recently.

>>825277
I mean I won't argue the point since last time I tried it ended with agree to disagree. Lets just hope he cools off from now on and he turns into a cool guy.

>>825212
What are you going to do now? Go to your 'How not be a dick' classes?

Writing!

>>825212
You let it go, however. That wouldn’t help you any, really. “So, what are you going to do now?” you ask. “It sounds like we’ve got some time to ourselves again.” You’re not entirely certain what you plan to do at the moment, but you know that at some point you’re going to need some time to yourself; if only to settle your nerves. You can’t keep going on quite like this…

“Me? Feh.” He shrugs and looks to the side. “I’m just gonna eat, sleep, train, and keep my ears open for any other news. That Black Flower is gonna be real trouble, I can feel it.” You can hear him growl a bit. “Damn humans...I don’t know how they made the Red Flower WORSE, but they did...fucking psychopaths!”

You can see his hands clench in anger, and honestly? At this point you can understand where he’s coming from. How you’d love to get your hands on that fucker Segwick…

“Hey.” Chao’s voice snaps you out of your bloody dreams, and you look over to him as he fixes you with a strange stare. “Appreciate the sentiment. Maybe next time if we’re partnered, you might not be so worried about those bastards.” He snickers, and before you can say anything, he turns away from you. “I’ll check you later, Raubtier.” And he proceeds to walk away- but you’re not gonna let him, not just-

“Lin!” That voice…Ming?

You turn to see Ming running towards you, and you don’t stop as she barrels into you, hugging you with a fierceness. “I can’t believe you’re up! I heard everything!” She pauses to catch her breath, then looks up at you with clear concern. “They said you were unconscious after taking control of the Vanguard! That you put everyone into a frenzy! That…” She shakes her head as if trying to clear her mind- it’s obvious she has a lot to say.

But best to clear our the first part first. “I’m fine, Ming.” You give her a wane smile- you’re not entirely ‘awake’ yet, and you still feel exhausted for some reason. “And you?”

“I’ve just been so worried…” she admits. “But now that you’re up...ah!” She jumps as if forgetting something. “Are you hungry? You want something to eat? I can...” she leaves the offer unfinished.

Hm. Well...you are feeling more than a bit starved, now that your attention is focused on it. “Sounds good. Lead the way,” you offer. Smiling, she begins walking back towards the Inn. You follow her, head full of questions and thoughts, but unsure of what to say first.

>So...what have you heard about me, exactly?
>How has your time in the Realm Guardians been?
>Do you know about the possible threat?
>...Ming, do you think I can be a hero?
>Other

>>825569
Ah, that's supposed to be

>Ming, do you think I can still be a hero?

I consider the 'still' to be important.

>>825569
>>So...what have you heard about me, exactly?
>>How has your time in the Realm Guardians been?
Let chat a bit with our buddy.

>>825591
This.

And it's Sedgwick, not Segwick. It sounded weird and I had to check thread 14 to make sure.

>>825610
You're right.

Alright, asking a couple of things. This'll be the last one for tonight.

>>825569
As much as you’d like to keep things light and airy, there’s too much that’s weighing on your mind right now. A few lines that you’ve heard from Rushi and Chao are making you wonder… “Ming, what have you heard about me, exactly?” You can’t help but be concerned with what Ming was talking about. It shouldn’t matter to you by now, but...it did. It really, really did.

“Oh...well…” Ming quiets for a bit in contemplation. She doesn’t exactly look comfortable. “There’s been...a lot of talk about you. They say you whipped up what was left of the Vanguard into a frenzy...that you tore through the humans like wheat…” so far, so decent. “And that you fought avatars of the Red Flower itself.”

Hm. That didn’t sound so bad. “It’s a lot more poetic than how I’d have put it, but so far that’s fairly accurate,” you admit. “So why the hesitation on your part?”

“B-because some are still scared. Of you, I mean. They see you, and…and they’re worried that one day you might not hold together like that. That if they get in your way…” Oh, that’s just bullshit! Even after all of that?! People are STILL scared of you in that way? “My Captain said that...that he heard that you’d be sent as an attachment to other teams now. As a force multiplier. A weapon. But I don’t think he actually knows…” she adds. "He...he's never liked you."

You can do nothing but let out a frustrated sigh. “Any more rumors?”

She looks down. “That...that you might’ve been corrupted further...I don’t know how, though!” she quickly clarifies. You're not mad at her, though, because do. That damn Black Flower. The worst part is, that wouldn’t be technically wrong- not that you’ll ever say that, however. “There’s been a lot of debate. E-everyone appreciates what you did out there, at least according to what I’ve heard, but there’s still that undercurrent of fear. Chao’s been doing his best to prove he can still...y’know.” Yeah, you know. He still wants to hold your leash. Great. You don’t know whether you should be thanking him or cursing this entire situation.

Time to switch topics. “I get it. Thanks, though.” You pat her on the arm to show there’s no hard feelings, and she smiles gratefully. “How’re things in the Realm Guardians going for you?” Maybe if you could redirect the conversation towards her…

“Oh! Well, it's not so bad. We have a lot of patrols, and sometimes take care of smaller issues in the villages as well. There’s not too much strife these days...er, aside from certain issues. We’re all focused on keeping everyone safe from the humans.” She sighs. “I was just told that my patrols will increase come tomorrow, though...this might be the last time I’ll have off in a while…that’s why I wanted to visit you so badly!” Ohh...you can’t help but hug her. She returns it gratefully. When she releases, she looks you in the eye as you approach the Inn. “Come- let’s get something to eat. You must be starving!”

You are, but as you eat, you find that you still feel a strange emptiness.

That'll be it for now. Was a lot more fun than I even thought!

Enough so that I may do a one time thing and run a short session tomorrow- at...let's say 1 PM CST. Magical Girl For Hire is still my main thing, mind, so expect that back Tuesday regardless.

Thanks a ton for giving me this chance so far. I wonder how things will progress once dice come back into play.

Good run. Let's see where it goes from here.

If anyone has any questions or anything, feel free to ask!

>>826029
Is the story from here on out going to be all thought up by you or are you following any direction given from the previous QM about that? Or did he only give you world building and character notes?

>>825991
That emptiness sounds worrying, we should probably chat up our sword and see what's up. Thanks for running MG, I hope this can turn into a fun ride.

>>826052

The story from here on in is largely going to be me. He gave me a plethora of notes for all aspects, but he's allowed me to go my own path. I've already deviated from his intended plotline in three MAJOR ways. You can probably guess one of them. xD

That said, it's likely I'll be using his notes for ideas and concepts. But chances are they'll be very removed from said base.

>>826060
Thanks! So do I.

>>826076
Sounds good. As long as all the previous plot questions introduced in the past 14 threads are answered in the end and there's no contradictions, I'll be satisfied.

>>826095
Would I be asking a lot if I asked for a quick run down of any such plot points or other important details that I've likely forgotten about?

>>826095

Trust me, contradictions are something I'm concerned about as well. I get the annoying feeling it'll happen (again), but I'm prepared to take my lumps over it if that happens. Most of the past plot threads are easily amendable to my plans. Some others will require finessing, especially considering I intend to be a lot more open with Lin's character than Shonen was.

>>826120
>especially considering I intend to be a lot more open with Lin's character than Shonen was.
That could either end good or bad, depending on what you mean.

>>826116
Don't remember them all from the top of my head, but since this is picked up again I'll probably reread it all.

>>826177
It just means that players will be able to pick more choices for how to respond for some events than before, and they'll try to be of a wider emotional range. I won't force things. I can understand how it'd end up badly, however, so I'll be double-checking to make sure of things.

The dice system will also likely be sliiightly adjusted. Still the 3d10 best of three system (I like to call that Roulette system) but the way DCs are judged might change.

>>826236
That doesn't sound so bad. Thought for a second there you might be one of those people that wanted to get rid of her dream that has defined her so far and make her into an anti-hero.

>>826291

Ideally, that kind of massive change in characterization I'd leave up to the players, and it wouldn't be something that happens in a snap regardless, really. It'd be a series of major (and likely several minor) long-term decisions and actions. And probably shittacular rolls.

Again, I understand that's a VERY FINE line to walk, however. Don't take that as a 'if they said so I'd do it in a blink' thing. But I WILL admit I am not 100% closed off to the concept. As things are, I'll write them so as they make sense for Lin however she is at the time.

As promised, will be starting back up in about a half hour. Would be less, but I woke up very late and still need breakfast.

I liked Yu.

>>828124
She was crazy though.

This is the only post I can make today so I have to make it count.

>>828124
YU THE WORST

>>828124
She cut off our fucking arm for a laugh.

>>828175
Glad to have you on board pal. I'll miss you.

>>825991
As you walk out of the Inn, stomachs full, you yet find yourself craving...more. But more what? You’re not sure. You just know you feel restless. Hungry. Like someone who’s been told to expect interesting news, but has yet to receive it. Like someone who’s been eating naught but clouds and air. Like...like someone who...gah! You’ll worry about it later, Ming’s right here!

And it’s very clear that she sees your vague distress, judging by the way she’s looking at you. “Are...are you okay, Lin?” No. “Do you think maybe you need some more rest?” She starts to take your arm in worry, but you pull it back calmly and with a thin smile.

Damnit. All this worrying was just causing Ming to worry, and that was always the last thing you ever wanted. Maybe you’re just nervous. Maybe it’s just stress, who knows? Either way, you don’t want to worry her. “It’s fine. I’ll be alright.”

“Well…” she looks at you carefully. “If you want somewhere to relax, maybe we could just walk around? You look like you need to clear your head a little…or maybe you want to do something else?” She seems incredibly amenable to whatever you’d like at the moment- likely because it’s been so long. Maybe you could even spar with her if you wanted...wait, no. That wasn't a good idea...

>...Yeah, that walk sounds good.
>Don’t worry, I just need to work off some energy.
>Other

>>828250
>>...Yeah, that walk sounds good.

>>828250
>>Don’t worry, I just need to work off some energy.
Or we could just tell her to wait a sec while we chat with our sowrd.

>>828250
>>...Yeah, that walk sounds good.

>>828250
>...Yeah, that walk sounds good.
We should find somewhere quiet before we talk to our sword.

>>828250
Walking in an attempt to clear our head.

Writing!

>>828250
No, no. You’re not going to subject her to that. A walk is fine. A walk sounds good, possibly better, all in all. Might help you regain your faculties a bit better. “Yeah...yeah, a walk sounds nice.” She smiles, and leads you on. Hopefully just some time enjoying the scenery and Ming’s presence would be just the thing.

You both end up walking through the village as Ming simply regails you about little tales from the Realm Guardians. They’d been acting more as a policing force as of late, in particular due to the rowdiness of some Oni who were really jonesing for the chance to get themselves a chance to strike back at the humans. Ming herself had apparently been commended recently for stopping an argument between an Awoo and an Oni that was about to come to blows. You’re impressed that she managed that, and you tell her so.

She shakes her head. “I...it wasn’t really much. I just distracted them by asking them to focus on something else...t-they turned it into some competition.”

“That’s still impressive,” you insisted. “You turned their urges into something constructive for the both of them. It’s clever.” She just blushes a bit, but nods. She had more in her than she really gave herself credit for.

At some point you find yourself near a few benches, and you both take a seat as you stop to soak in the atmosphere. It’s nice, but…

“Something’s going to happen soon, isn’t it?” you look at her sharply. She looks back at you with a sad smile. “I can tell. Everyone’s more tense than usual. I’ll be returning to my post before soon, and I won’t have time off for a while. Lei has been...very adamant about thorough patrols. And he’s been talking more with Blood Guardians the past day or so. It’s like a calm before a terrible storm.”

You try to say something, but the words just aren’t forming.

Ming hugs you. She holds onto you for some time. “I know you're a Blood Guardian, but please try to stay safe. Okay?”

>"Ming, you know I can’t promise that.”
>"Alright. I promise."
>Other

>>828479
>>"Ming, you know I can’t promise that.”

>>828479
>>"I can’t promise that but I will try my best.”

>>828479
>"Ming, you know I can’t promise that.”

>>828479
>>"Alright. I promise."
If safe means alive, then yeah that's feasible. If safe means not a scratch then we'll have a problem though.

>>828479

>>828493
>>828496
>>828498
>>828511

In this line of work...

Writing!

>>828479
You sigh. You wish you could promise that- you really do. But being a Blood Guardian, you weren’t really given the luxury of being able to do such a thing. You can see Ming’s face fall slightly already as you look at her. “Ming...you know that with me being a Blood Guardian…” It’s hard for you to even try to finish the sentence...but it’s the truth. Blood Guardians died. It was part and parcel of how things were at the moment.

Evidently understanding, she sighs shakily, but nods. “I...I know. I was just hoping...with your injuries that had happened, maybe…” She shakes her head, then smiles slightly. “But then you wouldn’t be Lin, would you?”

“Oh, Ming…” You can’t resist the urge to hug her, and so you do. She’s warm, and friendly, and she’s just...Ming. You’re incredibly grateful to have a friend like her, and you wish her all the best in the world. You always have, and you always will, and she’s one of the biggest reasons you continue on this path. You don’t know if she realizes it, but you suppose that if she did she’d just blush and insist she wasn’t all that special or something.

“Hey, careful she doesn’t crush ya!” Suddenly tittering laughter erupts from one side of you- you both turn to see a pair of young Awoo grinning at the both of you- a boy and a girl. The girls’ leaning on the boy as they both stand there, looking at Ming. “Can’t imagine Raubtier likes being sidelined for any length of time, am I right?” The boy looks square at you as he asks that. You’re not sure if he’s trying to be friendly, or just a jerk.

Ming seems to think the latter judging by how her face scrunches up. “Please, Lao, Kin. Cut it out. What are you here for?”

The girl shrugs. “You. We got marching orders.”

Ming blanches. “Already? But…” You have to agree. You were hoping to spend more time with her than this…

Still the duo just puts on fake sympathy. “Well, sorry, but that’s what the Captain says. We need to meet up so we can get these patrols sorted out. So you and the Raubtier will have to save it for another day.”

With a heavy sigh, Ming gets up to follow them both. “I’m so sorry, Lin, I-”

You have her off. “It’s fine. This is important. I’ll see you again, don’t worry!” The smile you give her succeeds at bringing up a smile of her own, and with a nod, she walks away with the duo to her own plans.

And that leaves you alone...and the emptiness isn’t quite as empty now. You still feel a bit strange...but it’s not nearly as bad as it was earlier.

>What will you do now?

>>828638
Find some quiet, lonely place and chat with our sword.

>>828638
Beat yourself over dead Yu.

>>828655
I'll second this anon.

Time to talk to our sword again. Boy, that sounds crazy with no context.

Writing!

>>828638
It’s now that you realize that Shén Kū’s been rather quiet this whole time. Likely to let you get a bit of rest, but at this point, you have some questions for it. Might as well return to the room you woke up in. It’s a quick journey, marked by you breaking into what was essentially a jog at some points- you can see some other Awoo, a few Oni, and the like look at curiously, but you’ve little time for gawkers at the moment.

As you approach the hut, you check around to see if Chao is back yet; he’s not. Good. Which means you can discuss things without worry. At least, if it’s possible to, still. There’s no telling what might’ve happened with that Black Flower and what he did to you. Hopefully, Shén Kū had some answers for that, at least.

You quickly head inside, and you make absolutely sure no one seems to be in the vicinity. As you grip the handle of your blade, you quickly give it a once-over. All seems well with the blade itself, but… “Shén Kū? Are you there?” Silence...a few more seconds pass.

“We are here, as always,” you hear the familiar voice call out. “We sense you have questions. Ask, and we will answer as best we can.”

Now...where to start…

>What do you want to ask?

Aaaand I have to get going. I'll answer the questions later tonight, but it won't be a run- just something to finish things off before the next session.

I really think I might do an alternating schedule of sorts after all. I'm really liking running this, and part of me thinks I myself wouldn't last if I had to wait a week to run more.

>>828851
Anything more you can tell us about after we passed out or something? Any other weird things up with our body that we should know about?

>>828863
>Any other weird things up with our body

Well, when an Awoo gets of age...

Hm. Well, simple, but important!

Writing!

>>828851
“Can you tell me what happened while I was passed out?” is the first thing on your mind. Rushi wasn’t all that forthcoming, but perhaps a different take on things might prove reasonable…

“We have not gone unaffected ourselves,” they respond. “The artificial kin caused a change within us. We have been attempting to determine exactly what, aside from a new language to understand for yourself.” Strange. “That aside, we found ourselves unable to act for some time. There was concern, then celebration. You were brought back under high guard. There has been discussion, however, of your noted lack of ability to retain team members.”

“What?” Is he serious? “A battle like that HAD to have casualties!” you practically yell. That was just how things went!

“That is the argument that was apparently put forth by your leader. However, there are concerns, regardless of your recent accomplishments. Ultimately, the others were convinced that your efforts are valuable. The guards apparently have concerns, judging from the statements made by your leader.”

Great. So even after all that…well. At least Rushi understood. You had friends, if nothing else. “What about…” how to put it, though… “There’s this weird feeling I’ve had all day. Like something’s missing from me. Did something else happen to my body?”

“That, we believe, is your price.” Wait, what? Their pric- oh. Oh no.

“Can...can you tell me to what extent?” You dread the answer, but you must know.

“Small. Minor. Little more than a vague wisp of our desire.” Well...that was...something.

You do your best to calm yourself. “And just what is that desire?”

“To survive...and to return home. Wheresoever that may be.”

Damnit.

>>830649
Thanks for everyone who's interested, again! I'm sincerely thinking I'll run an alternating pattern of Magical Girl For Hire, Hero Guardian Quest, now.

So for now the schedule's looking like this:

Tuesday 3-Whenever: Magical Girl For Hire
Wednesday: 1-7 PM: Hero Guardian Quest
Thursday 1-4 / 9-11 PM: Magical Girl For Hire
Friday 1-4 / 9-11 PM: Hero Guardian Quest
Saturday: 1-4 / 9-11 PM: Magical Girl For Hire
Sunday: 3-Whenever: Hero Guardian Quest
Mondays: Not running. Off day.

That seems mostly fair to me, yeah?

>>830673
Yeah that sounds good MG.

This should still bump, I think...anywho, be ready in an hour...maybe an hour thirty.

>>830649
This was what you were hoping wouldn’t happen. Or at least, it wouldn’t happen so soon. True, it’s nothing more than a vague annoyance at the moment, but if this kept up, then every time you needed to use the Red Flower’s ability… “It appears our earlier prognosis was accurate. You should be able to resist this wisp easily for now.” That didn’t make things much better. Now you knew what this would feel like, and the importance of not letting it take over is just much more serious in your head.

You’re unsure how much worse it might get, but...now that you know how it feels, you know you can keep it in mind now much more consistently. In the meantime, though…

>Ask another question (What?)
>Just calm yourself down, try to relax until Rushi decides what to do with you. (timeskip)
>Maybe go train, see if you can’t spar with Chao or someone.
>Other/Write-In

>>834990
>>Maybe go train, see if you can’t spar with Chao or someone.
Punch Chao into being a more liekable guy.

>>834990
>>Just calm yourself down, try to relax until Rushi decides what to do with you. (timeskip)

5 more and I'll flip for it.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>835044
1: Go train
2: Relax and timeskip

>>834990
Gah, you need something else to do right now, take your mind off this whole thing. Take your mind off a lot, really. Maybe hitting some things or someone will prove to be a good time-waster. Time to head to the training area- just about every village had one for a reason. It’s fortunately not a long jog, and you quickly manage to see a few faces heading there as well. Seems like today’s a training day for a lot of Guardians.

As you arrive, you look over the area- there’s more than a few groups paired up, and it seems that there’s a lot of fighting going on, both bare-handed and with practice weapons. You can see Chao off in the ring for practice matches- he’s got a grin on his face as he takes another Blood Guardian’s legs out from under him, poor sap.

There’s a few who turn to you once they register your presence, and you can see that several seem to be looking at you with an undisguised interest. One of the Blood Guardian girls opens their mouths, but her friend elbows her in the side lightly, and she closes it. There’s another two who’re looking at you with clear caution. One of them whispers something in the other’s ear.

You can see a trio of Realm Guardians as well, one a larger fella who eyes you briefly, but turns back to the other two, as he makes a motion with his blade- looks as though they’re all going through forms.

Well, all that aside, you could just train solo for a bit- simply practice your stance and technique. It’d certainly keep you out of anyone’s hair.

>Who to train with?
>Train Solo

>>835128
>>Train Solo

>>835128
>Train Solo

>>835128
>>Who to train with?
Chao when he finishes up. Or one of the more friendly/neutral looking guys.

>>835128
Going solo, then, perhaps. Writing.

>>835128
Thinking about it, you’d rather not deal with anyone quite just yet. Even as you’re trying to calm yourself down, there’s one too many thoughts running through your head about what might come of the Red Flower’s desire. You just hope it doesn’t grow over time. Maybe there might even be a way to reverse, or at the very least, mitigate the effects? Who knows…

“It would be well to take steps to return your mental state to normal. You seem nervous and uncertain.” Yeah, thanks a lot.

It’s right, though. Now sounds like an excellent time to try and clear your head. You try to find a spot that’s not too occupied, find some training dummies, and pick up a practice sword. You didn’t quite feel up to using the real deal right now. You take a deep breath, letting everything just...fade out, like leaves on the wind. It’s just you, alone, and focused. You step, and strike. Step, and strike. Turn, shift, strike. Turn, shift, step, strike…

It’s as if you’re in a peaceful, wide open meadow, with nothing and no one but you and the dummy. Gentle wind blowing, and no voices to distract you. For some time, you’re engrossed in training, and you find yourself moving with almost no thought at all. Just you, moving as your nature demands. Speed, power, flowing over the target with no thought, just action, movement, a shift here to strike under the arm, reposition to strike at the abdomen, then the neck, as all your movements string together like a brilliant tapestry of grace and force.

Is there anything there? Should there be? Why not? You feel as though you’re more clear-headed than you have been in quite some time. Singular minded- the dummy is there. Strike the dummy. This is all you need. A series of strikes becomes a flurry becomes a torrent-

Suddenly, you hear a muffled voice; even an interruption as light as that jars you out of your reverie. You blink, and look around to see yourself having gained something of an audience. At least eight Awoo are standing at a distance, watching you. You turn back to the dummy to see that, regardless of training weapons, it’s been thoroughly beaten up- cracks and parts chipped off, and looking largely damaged. “An impressive display.”

You look around to see who made that sound that woke you up, but no one who seems to be paying attention is speaking up...at least, not until one of the Guardians watching you steps up after a slight nudge from two others. “Oh, uh...so. Raubtier. I, uh...we had a question.”

Huh. “Yes?”

“So, uh...you get assigned really dangerous missions, right? Just...how dangerous?” That...you're not sure if that's genuine curiosity or if there's something behind a question like that.

> “Not moreso than any other Awoo.”
> “They rarely start dangerous. But they end dangerously.”
> “There’s...there’s a reason I don’t have a squad.”
> Other.

>>835330
>> “Not moreso than any other Awoo.”

>>835330
> “Not moreso than any other Awoo.”

>>835330

Missed the formatting, but it's whatevs. Meh.

Writing.

>>835330
You shake your head in an attempt to dissuade them. “It’s not moreso than any other mission Awoo get assigned,” you insist. “Things always have the possibility of going wrong, and we do our best to get out of them.” Although you’re only mildly surprised that others, from what you can see, are playing up (or down) your reputation at the moment. You’re still wondering why, though. “Why do you ask?”

They look around, as though nervous to admit it. The asker just shakes his head. “N-no real reason, we were just curious…” You can hear a sigh from one of them. The guy looks back with a scowl, before he turns back to you. “One of my friends said that you got sent on really secret, dangerous missions, and you’re not expecting your teammates to come back sometimes.” Ugh. “I was just wondering.”

Hm. “Well, I can tell you that that’s a lie. All Awoo are valued.” you say, looking him square in the eye. “That has never changed, and it never WILL change.” The Guardian leans back a bit, and nods.

“Yeah, she’s not kiddin’.” Oh, great. Chao. When did he suddenly walk up? “Trust me, it ain’t pretty when an Awoo dies. Not even for Raubtier here.” He nudges you slightly and you resist the urge to bap him. “So unless you got more to deal with, get goin’. I wanna talk with her for a bit, okay?”
The others nod, and quickly leave to return to their own training.

Mildly curious, you turn to fix him with a half-glare. “So, what’s the problem?”

He grins and shakes his head. “No problem. Just wanna ask how you’re holdin’ up. Seein’ you here kinda made me wonder if you were still feelin’ up to things after getting cut up again.” You snort in response, saying nothing specific. He barks out a laugh. “Yeah, kinda figured. You don’t lie down quick. But, y’know...Rushi’s been wonderin’ about a few things. Your little show back during the assault got him wondering how best to use you. I’ve heard a few rumblings, but nothing concrete…” He waggles his eyebrows like the information’s super juicy or something. “But, then again, dunno how much you’d like to hear it from me. Might go down better hearing it from Rushi himself. Heck, might’ve his mind changed entirely.”

> “Then I’ll trust him to do say it when he’s ready.”
> “So are you going to tell me or no?”
> Other

>>835500
>> “Then I’ll trust him to do say it when he’s ready.”

>>835500
>> “Then I’ll trust him to do say it when he’s ready.”

>>835500
Man, I'm typoing everywhere today.

>"Then I'll trust him to say it when he's ready."

>>835500
>"Then I'll trust him to say it when he's ready."

>>835500
He'll tell us when he tells us. No early bird rumors.

>>835500
“Then he’ll tell me when he’s ready,” you say. “I trust him with that kind of information.”

“Fair enough.” Chao admits with a grin. “Just don't blame me if you don't get a chance to argue the situation. I'm about done here, so I suppose I'll be seeing you around sooner than later.” And with that he walks away. While you are curious, you were being honest. You'd rather it come from your leader than anyone else, if the news is bad or disheartening. While you wouldn't say it out loud, part of you is worried that you might be stripped of your captain rank…

“It would be best for you to continue to ignore such thoughts,” you hear. “They tend to result in elevated heartrate and unfocused vision.” As clinical as it is, it’s true, at least. Hopefully, your rest tonight will be somewhat peaceful…

-------

The very next day, you are woken by a knock on the door of your hut. Opening it reveals none other than Rushi.

“Raubtier, I have a question for you.” He looks slightly uncertain, which is enough to cause you concern in great amounts. “I have been considering adding you and Chao as an auxiliary to other teams. Your strength and ability to command in times of crisis is a great boon, and I believe it would be best served in allowing teams that are undermanned to serve to the best of their capability. You would not be stripped of Captainship, rather, you will be treated as an intermediary Captain, floating between a number of teams.”

Initially, you go a bit numb at his suggestion, and your mouth isn’t sure what to do. As he keeps talking...that doesn’t go away.

“Alternatively, I have considered perhaps permanently assigning some Guardians under you that could do with your strong guidance and direction. I believe this might be more palatable to you, however, I should warn you fairly that their skills, while certainly worthy of Guardianship, may not be quite what you’re used to dealing with. Considering recent events, I will allow you to choose with option you take. Of course, I am open to suggestions, as well.”

That...that almost felt unfair. But if this was what Rushi felt was best, then…

>I’ll act as interrim Captain.
>I’d prefer a permanent team assigned to me.
>Well, perhaps we could try something else…? (What?)

>>835619
>>I’ll act as interrim Captain.
We'll become stone cold and we don't have to get overly attached to anyone.

>>835619
>I’ll act as interim Captain.

>>835619
Ah, I'll be back in about a half hour. I'd hope this does get more votes, as it WILL affect things in the quest later on in a major way.

>>835619
>>I’ll act as interrim Captain.

Back. Interrim Captain it is.

Wrrrrrriting!

>>835619
It takes a bit of thought, but you decide before very long, going with what you feel might be best. “I’ll act as interrim Captain.” It maybe means that building up camradarie with your teammates would be difficult, but if they know who you are, then they may not be willing to press their luck with disobeying you...or they might. Depends, you suppose. Still, it’s always better to have a full team than not. They’ll either listen off the bat, or you’ll quickly teach them how.

Rushi nods at your decision. “Very well, then. I’ve a team for you and Chao to join soon- now that I know of your decision, we can move to begin operations as soon as possible.”

You have to admit, the sheer idea of getting back out into the field, regardless of how, is something you’re very excited to hear, inwardly. And judging from how Rushi gets the slight grin on his face, apparently it might be outwardly as well. “So, when should I be-”

“Later today. I still have to inform your future teammates of the new circumstances. We’ll be near the training grounds at around midday.” You nod. “I feel as though it’d be better for you to get a feel for your new comrades, even if they will be temporary.” Makes sense. There’s a salute, and Rushi leaves.

You, on the other hand, decide to head out to get some breakfast. You’re not sure what the future will bring, but you know you’ll be ready for it one way or another.

-------

Soon after, you’re at the training grounds. They’re empty at the moment, interestingly enough, save for Chao, who was clearly waiting for you. “So. We’re gonna be floaters, huh? Didn’t think you’d be up for that.”

The way he’s smiling makes you want to pop him. Again. “Do you have a problem with it?”

He shakes his head. “Not if you don’t, Capt’n. Just don’t stress ‘em out too much.” That damn smirk.

Before you can respond, you can see Rushi approaching with three Awoo. Two girls and a guy. The taller male has a long scar on his face, running from forehead to jaw. The other two Awoo look on cautiously as Rushi stops in front of you. “Raubtier, Chao. Glad to see you.” He turns to the trio and points to the tall Awoo, the girl, and the shorter boy in succession. “These are Bao, Aya, and Tui. They will be assigned to your team until further notice.” The three bow in respect. “I’ve brought you here so that you can get to know each other somewhat before you head out on your next mission.”

“Hey, yeah, you never DID say what we’re doing.” Chao notes. “Have you decided yet?”

He nods. “I have.” He doesn’t speak further, however. “I’ll be seeing you all tomorrow morning, bright and early. Use this time to come to understand one another.” And with that, he’s gone.

Almost immediately, Tui starts shivering a bit, but he does seem to nod at you with some respect. “I-I hope we get along, captain.”

“We’d better,” Bao snarks. “Or else we’re dead.” He looks at you. “I’ll do my best to not impair you, Captain. Vice-Captain.”

Chao smirks. “I like this guy already.”

And that'll be it for now! Next thread and next run:

Holy shit we finally do something that'll probably involve rolling dice! It happens Friday, 1 PM! Be there!

Really surprised Lin hasn't just decided to up and go to someplace else — Not betraying the Awoo but not helping them either.
I suppose her friends certainly help.

>>837017
Where would she even go?

>>835943
>Two girls and a guy

>Tui
>he

>Bao
>he

>>837385
Yeah, I assume it was two guys and a girl. Tall guy, shy guy and girl that didn't talk. Plus Aya was the only feminine name.

>>837529
>>837385

Yeah, it was meant to be two guys and a girl. Sorry!