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PURPS

"Now doesn't that imply somebody stepped over the line?” You enquire of Lita as she finishes the last of your cigarette, a raised eyebrow all the pushing you’re willing to subject her to.

“Look… Pina’s blood is strong so sometimes she goes nuts and needs tied down; Mono and Me-Gan sneak into the woods sometimes.” She says matter of factly, “You seem decent so just remember we’re trapped in this shithole for most of the year; sometimes we bend the rules or rely on each other for some happiness.” She mutters somberly.

Trying to keep a blush from your cheeks you nod slightly before stubbing out your cigarette on the chimney; “Thanks. This is helpful.” You admit, “I won't tell anyone we ever spoke.”

“I’ve got a reputation to keep.” She agrees standing up and dusting off her dress as you walk to the edge of the roof slowly.

“I’ll let everyone keep thinking you’re a bitch and not a softy.” You drone flatly.

“Fuck you.” She cunningly retorts.

Stepping off you let the wind and gravity carry you down to the ground in just over a second, quickly flipping yourself rightways up to land neatly on the ground. Lunch is probably being served right now, judging by the bell ringing and your growling stomach.

But there’s always the option of training, doing some investigating or tracking a particular siren down. There’s also that Darnite shrine… plus you can actually speak to Minerva here.

> Go Get Lunch

> Track Down a Siren [Velth, Jaqeline or Switchwick]

> Train, gotta keep on top of your game

> Go to Church

> Sherlock Purps (How will you investigate)

> Write-In

>>1333561
>> Train, gotta keep on top of your game

>>1333561
>> Go Get Lunch
Don't want to faint from low blood sugar, or blood loss.

5 minute warning.

1 v 1 tie

- Star

>>1333561
> go get lunch

>>1333601
>>1333585
>>1333563

LOCKED and writing. Making tea too. Purps gonna get food.

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>>1333601
>>1333585
>>1333563

Meandering across the cloister is easy, which is obvious due to the whole “housing a dozen people” thing. The sound of the ringing bell and the smell of succulent crustacean meat carries you to the tent like structure across from the chickens. A gazebo, you think they’re called.

Beneath the fabric roof lays a long table, smoothed over from use but unstained; the light wood has benches pulled up on either side of it while Loti and Trisha labour to lay out cutlery and condiments for everyone.

It is a peaceful scene straight out of a bedtime story as the girls start filtering in and taking seats along the benches, whispering and giggling together like the sisters the Professor calls them. A strong family unit of equals. Brought together by shared condition and circumstance and bonded through utilizing their powers; they gather.

Mono and Jaqeline are still missing, you think Pina is the one cooking up the local shelled creatures and singing every other minute in the kitchen. Professor Switchwick is just passing the chickens… She’s bound to spot you, probably running out of time on the whole lingering and not imposing upon the family scene vibe you’ve been using.

> [RELIEF] Help Pina in the kitchen

> [JEALOUSY] Hang out with Prof. BitchSwitchwick

> [PRIDE] Trisha is offering you a seat

> Write-In

>>1333686
>[PRIDE] Trisha it's offering a seat
I think we need to have a talk with these girls about the difficulty of protecting them if they keep running of into the forest like everything is normal.

>>1333686
>> [PRIDE] Trisha is offering you a seat
If they can get out, something can get in.

>>1333686


> [PRIDE] Trisha is offering you a seat

5 minutes left.

Locked and Writing.

Totally didn't fall asleep.

- Star

>>1333772
Sleep is good.

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>>1333725
>>1333716
>>1333706

You see Trisha begin waving at you with excitement. Loti having to gently tug on the girl as her movement sends sparks racing up and down her arms. Circumnavigating the table and politely waving back, it is a simple matter to slide into place on the bench besides the buzzing girl and the diva Alice.

For what it’s worth she looks as if she’s genuinely trying to be civil to you, but that girl turns up her nose as often as most people breathe. Before you can even consider a witty putdown or casually mentioning how you stomped her, you are bombarded by Trisha and Me-Gan’s questioning.

“Did you fight a demon?” Trish blurts,

“Did you avenge Billie?” Me-Gan slowly demands,

“P-Purps, did Verde hurt you?” Loti stutters,

All three questions land at the same time and your neck twinges slightly trying to whip around to maintain eye contact with each one. Though only Trisha manages to maintain eye contact with your trademark, vacant yet intense look. A second barrage follows only faster and reinforced by Alice’s additions;

“Would you show me that whip you utilized?” She asks haughtily.

“Can we live safely now?” Me-Gan asks,

“If it’s not t-t-too much trouble could you-” Loti begins to ask before Trisha physically pushes her close to the table to ask;

“How did you get so strong?!” She shouts, her eyes literally conducting electricity through their blue irises.

> [FRUSTRATION] SHUT UP!

> [DETERMINATION] Tell them stories once food arrives, but not this story

> [CURIOSITY] Alice, what did you tell them?

> [PRIDE] Answer ALL THE QUESTIONS

> Write-In

>>1333808
>> [DETERMINATION] Tell them stories once food arrives, but not this story.
Food main priority now, getting information or disseminating it later.

>>1333808
>> [DETERMINATION] Tell them stories once food arrives, but not this story

>>1333808


> [PRIDE] Answer ALL THE QUESTIONS

giving 10 more minutes since I'm on the phone.

Yes I recieved a phone call a 1:51am

- Star

>>1333808
> [DETERMINATION] Tell them stories once food arrives, but not this story

Oh hey, this still exists. Got worried over the weekend.

>>1333883
!?!
Is 7:53pm senpai.
I know, different time zone. But still amazes me, people all over the world playing the same game.

>>1333891
>>1333896
>>1333860
>>1333823
>>1333812

Writan.

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>>1333891
>>1333896
>>1333860
>>1333823
>>1333812

You gently put your hand on the table- as in you do not turn the table into a bundle of sticks in the mud - to get the girls to calm down for a second. Though even with your outburst, Loti is struggling to hold onto Trisha. The Storm Siren is now emitting enough static electricity that both Loti’s and your own hair is standing firmly on end.

“Ladies, let’s get dinner on the table, then I’ll tell you some stuff.” You say placatingly at the array of stares. I’m not going to talk about what happened today.” The frowns are quickly visible on their faces. “Someone here already filled you in.”

“Aww, but dinner might take-” Trisha begins to complain before Pina’s voice calls to you all with the heavenly pitch of a choir from... well… heaven. Her golden clothing has a black apron over it saying “Those who kiss the chef will lose their soul.” Considering what you found out about the siren blood in her? That’s kinda dark.

“Dinnnerrrrrr is serrrrvvvveeeedddd!” She trills, balancing an improbable amount of plates on her hands and forearms; each of the almost dozen plates steam in unison as the crustacean meat is exposed to the open air. All the grace of a model and precision of an assassin, Pina strides across from the steaming building that must serve as kitchen. The sirens help Pina as she comes within arm's reach, a display of rehearsed teamwork and unity. In short order the dishes of crustacean are spread across the long table in a single straight line, a buffet of the same meat prepared in as many different ways as possible.

Seating herself at the edge of the table, Pina squeezes Velth’s hand slightly… so subtly that you think you’d have missed it like the rest of the diners if you hadn’t had your eyes on the gilded siren. She takes the apron off swiftly while the others await patiently. Even Trisha has her ass on the bench and her eyes on the food; guess being the chef amongst amongst a dozen sisters makes you pretty important?
“Miss Purps. Thanks for coming to lunch with us.” Pina says, breaking the tranquil silence while folding up her apron, “I know you are very busy, so please enjoy my cooking.”

The billion gold smile she rewards you with actually makes your unfeeling heart skip a beat. Pina flushes as you break eye contact and Me-Gan bristles across the table. Some unspoken accord is broken then as everyone begins reaching for plates and demanding stuff be passed in a flurry of activity that harken back to fighting the Wolfmen of Rono Pass. While the food is flying, you can sense the expectation from Loti, Trish and Me-Gan.

> Tell them about Mr Black

> Tell them about Rono Pass

> Tell them about fighting Hona

> The Tragedy of House Lupus

> Make something Up

> Write-In

TFW You thought this was posted 20 minutes ago.

>>1334000

> Tell them about fighting Hona
Couse this should bring up the dragon fight

>>1334000

> Tell them about Mr Black
I forget what incident this was.

> Tell them about Rono Pass
With the Darnite shrine, this might piss someone off. Eeeh.

> Tell them about fighting Hona
Might be good.

> The Tragedy of House Lupus
Hahahahaha no.

> Make something Up
They seem to be interested in our powers and Verde/Miranda. Maybe bullshit a 'you and them meet and fight' moment?

[spoilers]Lord knows we need one somehow. [/spoilers]

....I formally vote either the write in or
>Tell them about fighting Hona.

>>1334034

Mr Black was the Darnite Priest who we saved Grinnsmon from at the cost of Hona's eye and our first death.

In case people from MG Handler don't know, Purps may or may not be on dark souls rules... like, "Hollow out if she comes back too many times" immortal.

>>1334000
>Tell them about Mr Black
Could tie into asking them about the Darnite shrine and he was more scary than feral awoos.

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It's 3am.

I watched Wrestlemania last night.

Had a gig tonight.

And played some tabletop.

I'm reaching the end of my stamina.

Handler might pickup when he gets off of the DOOM SHIFT (tm) at work.

Thanks for playing guys.

Remember pic related.

- Star

>>1334115
Excellent quest Star.

>>1334115
How do you even funtion man.
Sure your not bullshit like the starborns are?
Or mybe your the old man lex and your just telling us you life story?

Uh, guys, the last thread isn't linked.

>>1334321
This one? >>1310313

Well that shift sucked. Who's alive?

>>1334437
I'm alive, I just checked.

When you’d brought in the three girls, Switchwick had been panicked immediately- it’d taken you a bit of reassuring that yes, the Phantom HAD attacked, but no, the girls weren’t dead or even injured. You and Purps had managed to delay, distract, and even temporarily capture the culprit. You’d also mentioned that he’d been killed (omitting the part about the property damage as she didn’t ask) after a short struggle. Which had made her elated.

That mood had come crashing right back down after you’d informed her of your suspicions. ‘Well, we’ve just got all the more reason to keep you around, then,’ she’d said, and she’d left to overlook the final dinner preparations. You’d been invited, but you’d decided to do a quick loop around the ‘village’ just to make sure of things. You weren’t too fussed about staying for a bit longer.

What you WERE fussed about was seeing the wolf-girl, Mono, hop the fence after looking around like she was making sure no one was nearby. Yo’d managed to jump back before she turned in your direction, fortunately, and she’d leapt the fence with clear familiarity.

That...was rather suspicious. You knew most of them seemed to be pleasant, but this Mono girl hadn’t exactly been a fan of yours or Purps. How you approach her, though…

>Keep at a distance, scout her out. See what she might be up to.
>Approach her semi-casually, but don’t let on what you were doing. You were just doing a guard lap, and she shouldn’t be out here.
>Be direct about it. This is a security breach, and suspicious besides. She needs to get back in the town, now.
>Other

>>1334565
>Keep at a distance, scout her out. See what she might be up to.
Just in case she is in cahoots.

>you’d informed her of your suspicions
What suspicions? And did we actually kill him or was it an illusion, it wasn't very clear to me. We really need to actuall ask someone about how siren powers work at some point.

>>1334592
That there's more than one conspirator/phantom, sorry. Also, the phantom had physical mass, and dissipated into smoke and nothingness at the end there once the Sirens were knocked out.

That WAS unclear, sorry. We'll do better to detail stuff in the future.

>>1334565
>>Approach her semi-casually, but don’t let on what you were doing. You were just doing a guard lap, and she shouldn’t be out here.

>>1334565
>Approach her semi-casually, but don’t let on what you were doing. You were just doing a guard lap, and she shouldn’t be out here.

>>1334565
>Keep at a distance, scout her out. See what she might be up to.

I'm alive and around. Give me like 3 hours to not be comatose.

- Star

>>1335714
Good timing. I'm just going to bed :(

>>1335722

Don't worry about it dude. I'm not sure if I should continue until Handler has handled his encounter.

Can do Q&A while I try to decide what to do.

- Star

>>1334565
>Approach her semi-casually, but don’t let on what you were doing. You were just doing a guard lap, and she shouldn’t be out here.

>>1334565
>>Keep at a distance, scout her out. See what she might be up to.
Telling the suspect that it is suspect is a big no no.

>>1335725
Yeah, just to make sure...
We can still vote on Purp's action, right?

In that case
>>1334000

> The WHOLE Tragedy of House Lupus
As in: The WHOLE tale. We DID get a book about our past as Lady Lupus by Awoodaughter, didn't we?

Now then, ladies and gentleman[?], only tonight, for you, in the village of sirens, the tale of Lady Lupus(/Lang/Okami)!

It's the perfect story to make a play out of.
And I kinda want to see how the sirens respond to the story.

Do it in memory of House Lupus. She as in we DID go to a theatre at some point to sing.
While omitting certain details, like how the republics assassins were to blame for... what happened; Also, details like her our choice of weapon, as well as names. Hence why proposing change of house lupus to Lang (Chinese) or Okami (Japanese)

Anyone else with me?

>>1335947

Vote is still open on it yeah. Handler's gonna resolve this encounter before we get back to the meal.

I'll be counting the votes when Handler finishes his enocunter, iirc Hona was winning.

- Star

Rolled 2 (1d2)

Dang, tie? I'll just flip for it.

1: Keep distance
2: Approach with chill.

No, she shouldn’t be out here. But if she’s an accomplice, you don’t want her to cotton on that you’ve found her out so soon. Might as well just make this look like a routine patrol or the sort for you. What you end up doing is waiting for a few moments to let her get a bit of a lead- then you leap over as well, and casually start walking in her direction.

She’s not running, at the very least, so she’s apparently in no big rush. When you find her, however, it’s between a couple of smaller trees, hand on one of them as she looks around.

Might as well get her attention. “Hey.” She flinches and looks back towards you with some shock- the look on her face says she particularly wasn’t expecting you, and you can hear something akin to a growl come out of her mouth as you approach. “You know you’re not supposed to be out here, right?” You do your best to keep your voice calm and smooth as she turns towards you fully.

“Yeah, yeah, I know. Geez, a Siren can’t get a LITTLE break from the usual, though? I ain’t goin’ anywheres far, so you can relax, guard girl.” She sneers and turns back- you can see her hand move, and you notice a spot of what looks to be blood on the small tree where her hand was. You barely manage to note that much before she’s in your face again. “Get goin’! I’ll be back in a couple minutes, no big deal. Just some personal biz.”

>Mind telling me what you’re out here for?
>Sorry, but you’re meant to be in the village. Let’s go.
>Fine, but I’ll be keeping an eye on you from a distance.
>Other

>>1336015
>Mind telling me what you’re out here for?
And don't take no for an answer.

>>1336015
>>Mind telling me what you’re out here for?

>>1336024
Seconding.

>>1336015


>Mind telling me what you’re out here for?

Shes yaving babys!!??

5 minute warning because first of the day = 30 minutes.

>>1336015
>>Mind telling me what you’re out here for?

>>1336015
>>1336024
>>1336031
>>1336037
>>1336052
>>1336067
You cross your arms as you fix her with an unblinking stare. “Mind telling me what you’re out here for, then?” The tone of your voice leaves it as less of a question and more of an order; and she seems to realize it by the way her lip curls back.

“None of yer business! Never heard of privacy!?” The way she barks is surprising, but you do little more than raise an eyebrow. There’s a brief stare-off between the two of you...and then she starts shaking, and with a huff, turns away. “I just wanted to get OUT for a bit, damnit. You know how hard it is for a follower of Gine to stand being cooped up in a place like that for ages?! I need SPACE. I need to walk, to wander, to just...be FREE for a bit.” Her shoulders slump as the truth leaves her in a rush, her head bowed. “Everyone else gets ta do whateva’ with their gods, but of course I get the shortest end o’ the stick, cause the way I need ta worship actually involves travelin’. Hell, even Boss- gah, whatever.” She shakes her head in frustration as she turns to you. “Just lemme get some time to walk. Anyone shows up, you can smash my face in; won’t even complain. But I need this.”

>Let her do her walkabout; under close guard.
>And what’ll you do if the Siren serial killer shows up?
>What’s so special about Gine?
>No sale. She goes back now.
>Other

>>1336073
>>Let her do her walkabout; under close guard.
>What’s so special about Gine?

>>1336073
>You're not here to smash her face in if anyone shows up. You're here to smash THEIR face in. Understand that.

>Let her do her walkabout; under close guard.
>What’s so special about Gine?

5 minute warning!

>>1336079
supporting

Locked, then. Writing!

>>1336073
>>1336078
>>1336079
>>1336097
Ugh. Hopefully you’re not getting too soft. “Fine.” Her eyes widen in surprise; apparently she wasn’t actually expecting you to acquiesce. “But I’m going with you to keep an eye on you. Remember, I’m not here to smash YOUR face in, I’m here to smash THEIR face in, alright?”

She just shrugs. “Works for me. Just try ta keep any noise down when I take a sit, alright?” You nod, and with that she starts walking, yourself right behind her. She steps lightly, her face surprisingly serene as she walks, taking in the wholeness of the area. Hadn’t really struck her to be one of the casually close to nature sorts, being honest with yourself. It DOES bring to mind a thought, however. “So, what’s so special about Gine? I’m guessing he’s a god, but...”

She looks over to you, face pensive as she considers the question. “Well…he’s the Wind God. Big on going where you will, as you please. Formally, she’s tha goddess of huntin’, freedom, expression. Not big on subtlety, though,” she chuckles. “Suppose it serves me right I get caught not long after tryin’ ta sneak out. But yeah. All about going to the unknown, wandering around, discoverin’ new sights.” Huh. You can- “Ya see the problem then, right?” Yep. “I see things most folk don’t like to think others see, sometimes. Like to think of it a blessin’. But I gotta keep myself faithful, so that’s what this is. Meditate sometimes, too, but-”

“I don’t think I’d be comfortable with that,” you note quickly. She makes a grunt and nods; she at least recognizes that you’re doing her a favor letting this much go.

You eventually start walking in a different direction- you make certain you can see the walls of the sanctuary at all times, steering Mono back once or twice when she starts to drift off. She makes a couple noises of discontent, but doesn’t complain. “What’s your deal, anyway?” she asks at one point- it’s been a few minutes enough, and you’re figuring it’s high time to get back to the village. “Ya don’t seem all that...Iunno.” She pauses, trying to think of a good way to phrase it, but eventually gives up, shaking her head. “You were hired, right? You got any other reason for showin’ up, or s’just the cash yer after?"

>”Basically.” Leave it at that.
>”It’s more important than you think.”
>”My boss forced this one on me.”
>Other

>>1336139
>>”Basically.” Leave it at that.

>>1336139
>”Basically.” Leave it at that.
Whatever our feelings on the matter, it's now the job we're being paid to do.

We're about to cut back to purps as part of next post.

10 minute vote on what story we're telling. Stands at

2 for
> fighting Hona
1 for
> Mr Black
1 for
> The Tragedy of House Lupus

You have 10 more minutes.

- Star

>>1336204
Hona

>>1336139
>”Basically.” Leave it at that.

>>1336139
“Basically.” You’re not really going to elaborate when it’s unnecessary. She can think what she likes, really.

Her face evens out into a thin line upon hearing this. “Meh. Well, let’s hope we get our money’s worth outta you, then. At least you seem to be decent enough ta WANT to keep us safe.”

“If I didn’t, Velth, Pina and Alice would’ve had trouble earlier.” you note.

“Come again?” The way Mono reacts is...not a way you’d expect and accomplice to act upon hearing that. As you explain, she growls harsher, but nods in approval when you tell her of what became of the phantom, as well as the safety of her fellow Sirens. She doesn’t seem too particularly inclined to speak after that as you finally head back. Perhaps later you might be able to ask her a few questions…

Regardless, as you both jump over the walls and get back, you turn to her. “I’m going get dinner. You coming?”

She seems to think about it a bit, looking at her pricked hand. It shouldn’t mess with her much, but she seems concerned about it; the next second she shrugs it off, however. “Yeah, sure. Chances are folk’ll be wonderin’ where I got off to anyways. Don’t need more than you sniffin’ around.” With that, you both head off towards the smell of well-cooked food- it carries easily to you, and you quickly find the group of Sirens, plus Purps, who seems to be in deep concentration as she tells some story…

“So, it turns out there are legends about the time I visited the giants.” She gulps some wine for courage. “I was some kind of nutjob back then, and I worked with her father on diplomacy.” The girls hang on her every word, as she describes a much more violent, psychotic version of herself winning duels in brutal fashion against the giants, and falling deeper into battle lust.

Part of you wonders if that’s where that earlier display came from. A history like that? Yeah, you could see flashbacks of that life surface every now and again.

cont.

>>1336230
She really paints herself as a villain, to your mild surprise, and her friend as a hero for wanting to beat her, but it is the power she casually describes the two of them possessing that leads you in to take a seat.

As you sit down, you look over to Purps, who gives you a curious look right back. You just shrug and start picking up various foods off the impromptu buffet- which is already looking a touch slim, much to Mono’s regret and annoyance as she lays into whatever’s left.

“So once I’d pushed Hona to her absolute limit, something stirred form the deeps. Something ancient, fearsome and completely furious that it’s hibernation had ended,” Purps says ominously. The story starts taking a harder turn as she begins to describe a dragon rising from the water and battling against this… Honamurei? And her.

It’s interesting stuff, and reveals a bit more about her you weren’t aware of. Super forms, sounds like, plus some kind of...severe mental shift along with it? Depending on circumstances, at least. Frankly, it sounds like she’s got a bad case of multiple personalities to you. You’ll have to watch yourself...either that, or figure out how best to use that effectively. Thinking about it, you have to wonder- is that what most are like around here? Maybe Emotion magic is a thing here? The way they’re reacting makes you think it might be a unique or rare trait, at least.

Could be good or bad for you, depending on how volatile the triggers are. But, you can mull on that later. Right now…

>Inquire about their respective religious practices; you know there's multiple gods/goddesses, but there might be a religious slant to this as well, perhaps.
>Ask about favorite plays they’ve done. Maybe there’s a connection there when it comes to genre.
>Mention how skilled Velth, Pina and Alice were before they were attacked. Feel out reactions for possible motive.
>Say nothing for now and just let Purps talk. You’ll let her do her thing while you eat a bit.
>Other

>>1336234
>>Say nothing for now and just let Purps talk. You’ll let her do her thing while you eat a bit.

>>1336234
>>Say nothing for now and just let Purps talk. You’ll let her do her thing while you eat a bit.

>>1336234
>Say nothing for now and just let Purps talk. You’ll let her do her thing while you eat a bit.

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>>1336259
>>1336255
>>1336253

PURPS

It feels really good to get this off your chest, in fact you’ve noticed that as you go on, you’re glowing a little as the [CONTENTMENT] sinks in; maybe this is something you can do with your life? Tell stories and be a bard? Is that a thing?

“Well, I’ve already told you all how fast Hona is; so while I tried to get back to that ridiculously powerful form, she took it on solo.” You regale, trying to inflect emotion into your voice and failing, “She sprinted off the bridge and just started running up it like it was nothing. Forced the dragon to turn its attention.”

It’s in that pause for breath that Velth speaks up. Well, less speaks up and more mumbles a question at you, which you don’t quite catch. It takes Pina leaning in and murmuring a reassuring word for her to try again. “When you were watching her charge it… how would you say you were feeling?” she asks, the pen in her hand having paused for the first time since she finished her meal.

“Well… I was trying to concentrate on me. So I could channel the two emotions I needed. But in that moment...” You pause; introspection is a nightmare for you, especially with Verde and The Sirens all studying you like a model for a nude sculpture. “In the seconds before I focused it was a mix of pride, jealousy, and well…” You pause and blush, “I was worried I was going to lose her.” You fiddle with your hands and crack all of the knuckles in them. “I didn’t expect either of us to make it out.” That’s the note you end on, staring at your reflection in the grease covered plate in front of you.

> [DETERMINATION] Finish the story. ‘You need to get this off your chest.’

> [CURIOSITY] ‘Are you writing this down, Velth?’ You’re not sure why she’s asking anyway...

> [SHAME] ‘Honestly, It was my fault she even got in danger.’ And you’re not sure that’ll ever leave you.

> Write-In

>>1336298
>> [CURIOSITY] ‘Are you writing this down, Velth?’ You’re not sure why she’s asking anyway...
Then
> [DETERMINATION] Finish the story. ‘You need to get this off your chest.’

>>1336302
supporting

5 minutes. Then WRITE.

>>1336298

> [DETERMINATION] Finish the story. ‘You need to get this off your chest.’

It is done. We WRITE.

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>>1336298
>>1336302
>>1336311
>>1336339

You’re surprised at how distraught Purps looks for a moment- then you’re surprised at your own surprise. Maybe it’s just what you’ve been doing all these years, but all that just sounds like another day on the job to you. Then again...it’s certainly not like you don’t have those fears. But it sounds like they’re more...forefront in her than you.

You’re not sure how to feel about that, actually. Then her eyes harden, and she looks up again. “Velth, are you writing this down?” You back to the girl in question, who oddly enough seems in some distress.

“Loud…” The girl murmurs, shutting her eyes before she takes some deep breaths and answers. “Yes, it’s… for a project.”

Purps frowns, but you’re not sure why. Not a fan of getting immortalized somehow? “That’s… okay. Just don’t use names please?” She gently chides. Her monotone voice oddly makes it sound a lot more threatening, though, and Velth blanches at the reaction, leaning back a bit. The others look around concernedly.

“Velth, I just think Purps is concerned about the safety of those involved.” Pina tells the blind girl with a handpat.

Trisha chimes in, “She’s not mad at you!” The way she says it is more desperate hope than positive assurance.

“Right, Purps?” Alice tacks on coldly as she tenses up. She’s leveled a stare at her that promises unpleasantness if she doesn’t agree, and you find yourself curious about the hardline reaction.

She nods in agreement. You look back and forth; did she forget about the blindness? The way she blinks afterwards say so. “Yes.” Almost immediately Alice seems to cool off a bit- she still has an angry stare, but she’s not leaning forward in her seat anymore, and she’s let go of the fork she didn’t realize she was clenching.

“Well, the dragon ended up almost killing Honamurei- it was so close that even when I got the new form, I had to take the hit for her.” You can see her tense a bit- it’s clearly not a nice memory. “I am one of a few people to survive being bathed in dragon fire. If I wasn’t in that form, well.” She makes a throat slitting gesture; that one’s meaning plenty multi-dimensional. “I managed to get a shot off at the dragon while it was confused at me not-being burnt to a crisp.”

cont.

>>1336386

“What?” Trish gasps

“No way-” Alice protests, but is soon cut off.

“Amazing!” Loti and Pina clap at once.

Velth puts her head on the table after wincing. “Louuuuuud.” she moans. What is with her and talking? They’re not even much beyond inside voices.

“Neat.” You comment idly. The others just look at you briefly, and you shrug before their attention turns back to Purps. Dragons were usually pretty fun to fight.

“No bullshit,” she confirms. “The amazing thing is that I took it’s two front legs before the new form took it’s toll. According to the healer later, I had second degree burns across 80% of my body from the dragonfire. Plus, all my ribs were broken bar one, my liver was close to failure, my muscles were torn throughout my arms, legs and core; to top it off my blood was barely circulating.” She clears her throat, “Sometimes you’re not ready to break your limits. But well, pushing my luck saved my life and Hona’s - even if I wasn’t ready to master the form.”

The Sirens all have various different looks on their faces- Trish just seems gobsmacked, Alice seems strangely doubtful, but at the same time...concerned? Loti and Pina both look like they want to ask for her autograph, and Velth is just busy writing.

It was a fun story, you suppose. You’d be lying if it didn’t stir an old familiar nerve...but that was times long past, and a life since finished. Right now, you’re still more concerned about your job...but all things considered, just coming right out and asking things about the phantom wouldn’t likely go over well…

>Ask about Alice’s doubting face. Can’t imagine why Purps would lie about such a thing.
>Try to get more out of Velth and her ‘project’. She probably won’t say outright, but a hint might help.
>Maybe we can talk with Switchwick later about this… (Timeskip)
>Other

>>1336390
>>Ask about Alice’s doubting face. Can’t imagine why Purps would lie about such a thing.

>>1336390
>Maybe we can talk with Switchwick later about this… (Timeskip)

10-15 minute extension. This is kinda a slow period.

>>1336390
>>Ask about Alice’s doubting face. Can’t imagine why Purps would lie about such a thing.

More like stillborn, the ass patting chunnis in any of these threads really have no taste. At least magical girl shit always gets fans, but how did anyone get past the pisspoor writing of Starborn

>>1336390
>Ask about Alice’s doubting face. Can’t imagine why Purps would lie about such a thing.

>>1336437
wew

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>>1336437

Be the person Bob Ross knew you could be.

- Star

>>1336437
I have no clue. I'm certainly looking forward for this crossOver to lose the cross.

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>>1336449

Happy to have you aboard Dark Blue anon.

- Star

>>1336459
Looks more black to me.

Anyway, writing!

>>1336459
Nothing against you. I don't like quest crossovers.

>>1336471

Well once this arc kicks off, hopefully we prove you wrong Dark Blue. Both Handler and I wanted to do a crossover right; since we'd both seen many people talk the talk but never go ahead with it.

Thanks for being cool about it.

- Star

>>1336459
I'm sure the use of reaction images will help with your writing.

But seriously, how could you even consider yourself as any kind of 'professional' writer

>>1336390
>>1336395
>>1336442
>>1336436
“Something not settling right with you?” you ask. Alice (as well as some of the others) look at you in surprise.

It quickly fades as she then turns the same look on you, her frown growing deeper. “What do you mean by that?”

You just shrug. “Seems like you’re not exactly sold on what she said. Why not? Can’t say I see a reason to not believe her.”

The group turns from you to her as she breaks eye contact briefly, searching for an answer. “It’s just...it seems kinda strange, is all.” she quickly looks towards Purps. “Not that she didn’t do most of what she said! Just...people like to...embellish things, I’ve learned. I mean, I do plays, and those are basically stories. Everyone does it. That just seems a bit more...out there than most.”

Purps just looks at her and shrugs. “My life is ridiculous.” That seems to be her only answer to the assertion. The rest seem to alternate between blushing in embarrassment for Alice, and looking at either you or Purps in expectation of anything further. You don’t want to cause any sort of rift, but...hm. If one of them WERE dealing with the phantom somehow, this might be a good chance to spook them into doing something hasty if they had an (inaccurate) idea of what they were going up against.

> “Well, I could probably tell you some crazy stories myself. It’s all about perspective.”
> “She said what she said, and she claims it’s accurate. You don’t have to believe her.” Let it go.
> “If you asked nicely, she could probably show some of it as proof.” Naturally, you’d be right there as well.
> Other

>>1336505
>> “If you asked nicely, she could probably show some of it as proof.” Naturally, you’d be right there as well.

>>1336505
>> “If you asked nicely, she could probably show some of it as proof.” Naturally, you’d be right there as well.

>>1336505
>> “Well, I could probably tell you some crazy stories myself. It’s all about perspective.”

>>1336505
>“Well, I could probably tell you some crazy stories myself. It’s all about perspective.”

>>1336505


> “Well, I could probably tell you some crazy stories myself. It’s all about perspective.”

>>1336459
Don't let this awful crossover kill magic girl quest please.

>>1336581

It won't

It is canon to both but it wont' kill either.

Promise.

- Star.

>>1336581

Y are guys hateing so hard,
I mean you dont have to keep posting/ reading it if your hating it so much

>>1336581
Man, relax. Magical Girl For Hire Quest isn't going anywhere. This is just something I wanted to do.

-MGHandler

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“Well, I got plenty of stories myself, really.” Verde notes. Alice looks at her dubiously, but she continues. “I wouldn’t be surprised if you’d think some of them are crazier than hers, really.”

Alice actually snorts at that. “I’ll just...take your word for it, thanks.”

Verde shrugs. “Just saying. It’s all about perspective. You think assaulting a dragon is amazing at all. I just kinda want to hear the weaknesses since it’s apparently not dead. I’ve killed big monsters like that before. Dragons aren’t anything special to me. Not often I hear about past lives and techniques powered by emotion, though.”

At this point, she stands up. “You guys don’t mind, I’m probably going to start a early late patrol.”

You sit silently and drink in the conversation. Alice’s disbelief is unsurprising, yet the other girls don’t seem to share her skepticism. Velth is scribbling away on her papers under the proud gaze of Pina. Me-Gan is biting her lower lip while Trish and Loti giggle and whisper back and forth.

The sirens seem to function extremely well together for a cloister of young women, in fact they’re quite a tight little unit with their relationships and groups all co-existing peacefully. Honestly, quite a nice little retreat from the wonderful stress of the world. But this is business, not pleasure.

> [FRUSTRATION] Should probably talk to Prof. Maybe she has plans

> [WORRY] Track down someone not here, (Jaqeline,Lita,Mono)

> [RELIEF] Help Pina with the dishes

> Write-In

>>1336638
>> [WORRY] Track down someone not here, (Jaqeline,Lita,Mono)
Mono

>>1336638
>[RELIEF] Help Pina with the dishes

>>1336638

> [WORRY] Track down someone not here, (Jaqeline,Lita,Mono)
Preferably Jaqueline.

10 minutes

- Star

>>1336638

> [WORRY] Track down someone not here, (Jaqeline,Lita,Mono)

Jackie.

>>1336638
>[RELIEF] Help Pina with the dishes

LOCK.

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>>1336718
>>1336713
>>1336684
>>1336668
>>1336652

2 for Jackie
1 for Mono
2 For Helping with dishes.

Because I am literal worst cunt. Gonna take the mono as a vote for checking on Jaqeline.

Writtan.

- Star

>>1336741
I'm ok with that.

>>1336590
These are the type of people shitty quests like these attract

>>1336779

Then they should leave
Not like there working here

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Well, as nice as this is - you’re on the clock.

As in, “better work out what’s going on here and murder whatever is going on here so you can get back to legging it to the academy to fix your lover’s maimed face.” on the clock. So it’s probably best you keep a calm head and an eye on all of the sirens.

So especially the ones who aren’t working the safety in numbers angle.

Jaqeline isn’t here, and neither is Lita after your little girl talk over smoking. Mono showed her face during your story, arriving with Verde; but only as long as it took to grab a huge chunk of meat and slink away happily. So those are the three to choose from, but the long black haired girl who guided you inside the cloister from the gate strikes a chord with you.

So you stand- and find two girls clinging to your arm. “Purps, please tell us more stories!” Trisha says, her grasp making all the hair on your body stand up in a lavender wave.

“We-won’t ask any questions…” Loti adds, “O-Or annoy you.”

Me-Gan pouts at you, and you find yourself blushing at the similarity between Honamurei’s pout and this siren’s. But you manage not to breakdown under the assault of cuteness and crack a slight smile. “You did not annoy me.” You say, wiggling out of the grasping arms. “It felt good to get all that off my chest.” As you wave and begin walking away, a peek over the shoulder of Velth reveals a long composition flying from the tip of her pen entitled ‘The Songbird and The Firefly’ though the massive amount of crossing out reveals it to be a working title.

A quick hop leaves a dust cloud behind you as you take into the air and land on the kitchen's rooftop easily. Taking another jump you begin moving across the rooftops gracefully, a purple and white dot against the horizon. The breeze running through your ears allows you to adopt your default emotionless and vacant outlook.

At least until you hear the resonating call of Jaqeline playing her harp.

> [CURIOSITY] Observe

> [WORRY] Rush over and stop her playing

> Maybe now isn’t the best time

> Write-In

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Tapping out for the night. No idea why I was getting shit tonight, but I ain't going anywhere dicks.

Night all. I still love you all.

- Star

>>1336820
> [WORRY] Rush over and stop her playing

Probs not the best idea. Actually:

>Yell to get her attention.

>>1336820

> [CURIOSITY] Observe

>>1336820
> rush over and stop her playing
Are they in such a rush to die? How are we supposed to look out for them if they don't coordinate with us?

Maybe we can take this opportunity to ask since details about siren magic. Is it unusual for another performer to come in and take control of the show? Is there anyway to snap them out of their performance?

>>1336820
>[CURIOSITY] Observe

>>1336820
> [CURIOSITY] Observe

>>1336820

> prevent her from starting
Now, I just got a few questions, which need answering.
After that you can return to... doing stuff.

What even IS she doing?
Unless it has to do with the barrier, she can lay that off. The questions I got will blow this case wide open.
... or something like that.

I'm semi back. Give me two and half hours and I''ll continue.

- Star

>>1339025
Is this a write-in or are you asking me these questions?

>>1339055

That is mine, and all I'm saying is that
>>1339025
Is a way of saying
> [WORRY] Rush over and stop her playing
I want to ask them questions.

>>1339136
>>1339005
>>1337781
>>1337105
>>1336854
>>1336843


We're Tied. I'm tweeting out that we're running now so next vote decides or I roll for it soon.

- Star

Rolled 2 (1d2)

1
Rush over
2
Observe

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Stopping abreast of the rooftop where Jaqeline is playing her harp, you turn your attention to the surrounding buildings. The last phantom attacked when the girls were performing; so if there’s going to be another attack this would be the time.

So you sink back on your haunches as Jaqeline’s strings weave a tapestry of dread. Her song a haunting requiem for a life unlived, of dreams abandoned and companions forgotten. She spins a tale of loss, with no words or voice. It is beautiful. Far beyond what you expected for a harp to be capable of, the many layers of interwoven notes making it sound both high and low at once.

It could be her siren abilities, but she honestly is playing as a one women symphony. But as of yet, there is nothing suspicious this way coming.

> [RELIEF] Leave her to it

> [CONTENTMENT] Enjoy the music

> [CURIOSITY] Talk after the song finishes

> Write-In

>>1339243
> [CURIOSITY] Talk after the song finishes

>>1339243

> Talk with them now.

>>1339243
>> [CONTENTMENT] Enjoy the music

3 votes

All different options

Never change Starborners

- Star

>>1339243
>[CURIOSITY] Talk after the song finishes

>>1339252
Well we could
>> [CONTENTMENT] Enjoy the music
then
>[CURIOSITY] Talk after the song finishes

5 more minutes.

- Star

LOCKED.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8POOTbrN3I

Couldn't find the non vocal version. It's also quiet. Sorry.

The song seems to slow it’s tempo as time goes on, the chorus of accompanying instruments seemingly thinning out with every repeat of the song’s core, until eventually it is a single harp crying out in the dark of the night, far more intense than any of the other parts of the song.

The music puts you in mind of a child; crying out in terror and anger at a world it doesn’t understand. Jaqeline’s song is a song of lonely grief - this final solo ramping up to crescendo with all the fire and fury of a raging inferno- only for it to culminate in an anti-climax, as she reprises the first part of the song. The slow, gentle melancholy sequence serves as a reminder of how things are now.

Your legs have fallen asleep from crouching, and it takes you a little second of hesitation once you stand in the now silent prevening. The red sun of Octavius slowly falls below the horizon as it walks the short road to night. When you land, it is unnoticed by The Siren; as she appears to be tearing up. Her slim shoulders racking with barely contained sobs.

> How do you react?

>>1339302
Sit down beside her.

10 Minutes

- *

>>1339302
>Get close, try to just kinda be there in case she needs a hug.

LOCKED writing

- *

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Sitting down next to her, she finally notices you. This isn’t really your speciality, so you just sit close; it seems to put her mind somewhat at ease. “Sad song.” You say simply, as you pull another cigarette from your pack. Taking a deep draw and letting it out, the siren still hasn’t responded so you add a little extra. “Was good though.”

Between sniffs she finally managed to get an answer out. “Thank you,” is all she says.

“You lost somebody?” You ask in a blazing display of your trademark tact. Truly in this moment you have become the master of emotional comfort.

“Yes. Nobody knew I was a siren until I was nine.” Jaqeline says, hugging her harp close to her before falling into silence.

“They took you away from them?” She nods. “Well. That sucks.”

“It had to happen. I tried to hurt my brother.” She says rounding on you, to which you put a hand up in a non threatening gesture.

She’s clearly got some masked hurt there, and you try your best to disarm her aggression. “I understand. Doesn’t make it any easier.”

She visibly relaxes as she turns back away. “Thank you.” Is all that comes out as she looks away morosely.

> [????] Tell her about House Lupus. She’s not alone in this pain.

> [PRIDE] Tell her she’s keeping their memory in her work. She should keep strong.

> [WORRY] Remind her they’re not gone. They’ll always be with her in some way.

> Write-In

>>1339382
>> [????] Tell her about House Lupus. She’s not alone in this pain.
What's in the box?

>>1339382

> [????] Tell her about House Lupus. She’s not alone in this pain.

Ahahaha!

I'm back! Give it five or so minutes before writing for a couple more votes, late as I am.

Alrighty, I'm good to go. We're writing!

>>1339382

> [????] Tell her about House Lupus. She’s not alone in this pain.
Oh god y we doing this

>>1339382
>>1339386
>>1339388
You sigh. There’s a lot you could say to that, really.

But only one thing you feel might resonate with her the most. You mentally sigh as you dredge up the memories only recently brought unto you. "Let me tell you about a family from Tinton. The Lupus family..."

>[PITY] unlocked!
---------------------


**MIRANDA**

The night’s crisp. You can appreciate that. There’s not a lot going on at the moment; you’d elected to take the opportunity to do a quick patrol around the edges of the village, which was quick enough considering your relative leaping ability. However...part of it was just to clear your head a bit, admittedly. You’ve been on enough jobs to realize that something about this just isn’t adding up. Who or what would want to attack a bunch of singers, if not something like, say, crazed fans or the like? The being you’d engaged before seemed relatively content with just singing, but obviously that couldn’t just be it, could it?

As the night falls, you take a perch on top one of the buildings nearest to the church. You can see Switchwick talking with one of the girls briefly before she walks away, a frown on both their faces. It’s Trisha, and she’s practically stomping. Unusual, from what you had seen of her before. Wonder what bee got in her bonnet. Along the way, you can see her pass by another one...

Me-Gan, the bat girl. She’s staring off into the distance, towards the rehearsal area, with an unusually pensive look on her face, practically tap-dancing back and forth in a small line. When Trisha passes, she doesn’t even seem to register her, she’s so deep into her own thoughts. Frankly, you don’t like any of them out and about at the moment, especially not paying attention. As long as they don't break out into song, at least...

The wind blows, howling strongly, and you can’t shake a familiar chill settling in your bones- the feeling that this might be the last ‘peaceful’ night for everyone for a bit...

>Talk with Switchwick about future events and expectations.
>See what’s riling up Trisha. Maybe calm her down, keep her focused.
>Approach Me-Gan quietly. She seems distraught. Might help her.
>Keep your distance from all of them. No need to worry them.
>Other

>>1339492
>Talk with Switchwick about future events and expectations.
She's the Client, after all.

>>1339492

>Talk with Switchwick about future events and expectations.

5 minutes to go. Who will you talk to before tomorrow happens!?

Ah well. Writing, just forgot to say so.

Bit of a shame about the low participation in this. Finally back from a vacation with no internet though so let's do this

>>1339492
>>1339506
>>1339509
You’ll leave the sirens to their own devices. Right now, you need to make sure you know what’s happening in the coming days. With that mentally settled, you drop down in front of the church, before Switchwick can fully close the door. She startles at your presence briefly, but smiles nonetheless. “Ah, hello. I hope all is clear?”

You nod. “For now. I’m here to talk with you about what you’re planning for the future. If I’m going to be guarding you, I need to know what to expect. We haven’t gotten a whole lot of time to talk, but I figure now’s as good a time as any to change that.”

She nods, turning around and opening the door a bit wider for you. “I quite agree. Come; my personal quarters are back this way, and we can discuss my plans for the tour.”

Her personal chambers are rather opulent, a decent sized room with a large bookshelf and quite a lovely looking bed, built from strong looking wood and with a fine finish. There are various bronzed ornaments in various places, and a dresser with quite the ornate mirror in it, as well as a map, pen, and a few other objects on top. It all glows softly thanks to an orange, glowing crystal that seems to mimic candlelight, the way it flickers gently and casts soft shadows around the room.

“I hope you find my little hideaway comfortable- I always enjoyed a bit of...atmosphere.” She grins, looking around proudly, and before long she invites you towards the dresser with the map on it.

You pay close attention as she draws a line through her travel path with her finger. “Well, to start off, we are here- just east of Marionburg. We’ll go through there- no show, but it’ll be nice to see how the wind’s blowing vis-a-vie attitudes, then the plan is to travel south and west past the mountains and Godswatch. Leno will be our first show, aaaand Pollsworth our second. After that, the Captial City of Mun for our big finale!” She seems rather proud, but you DO have some questions...

>Not much of a ‘tour’. Any reason why besides the obvious?
>Are they expecting you well in advance?
>How’s the social climate in those places? Anything to watch for?
>Other

>>1339554
Welcome back! Hope you had fun!

>>1339624
>How’s the social climate in those places? Anything to watch for?

>>1339624
>Are they expecting you well in advance?
>How’s the social climate in those places? Anything to watch for?

Is the tour bus subject to the same impenetrable invisibility field thing or do they just move the entire abbey around or what? Seeing how they're killed on sight I'm not sure how this all works out.

5 minute warning!

>>1339624
...I posted that SO long ago...

>>1339624
> how's the social climate?
This >>1339632 too

We writing.

Knowin' stuff.

>>1339624
>>1339631
>>1339632
>>1339662
“Alright, so how’s the social climate in those cities? Anything we might need to watch out for?” If there were any particular factors that might cause certain people to oppose their presence, it’d be good to know in advance.

She hmms in thought. “Well, considering our direction, we’ll be stopping by Godswatch as well just for a bit- I think we’ll be doing a show there as well, actually. A bit of a rouser for the troops, you see, nothing too major.”

“Any more places you might be forgetting?” You hope she’s not getting scatterbrained all of a sudden…

“None,” she confirms. “We’ve not the money nor defenses for a protracted tour, I’m afraid. My apologies. Now, moving on. Leno leans towards the status of a rebel city.” Ugh. That already complicates things. You’d heard tiny snippets here and there, but the depth of whatever conflict is going on here is lost on you. “The thing about it is that it’s a rather important and large center of commerce. It’s got arguably the biggest theatre on the continent, so we’re trying to hit it early; make a big splash, if you will!” Made sense, you suppose. “Next, Pollsworth are largely loyalists; they’re rather famed for their large sea port; one of the biggest on the continent, actually. They’re not really much to write home about otherwise, they’re just...iffy, I suppose.” She sniffs. “Nonetheless, they’ll be an excellent area to portray our talents.”

You’re tempted to make a remark about lonely sailors, but keep it quiet.

“The Capital is...well, the Capital.” She shrugs, her lips in a thin line. “Grandiose, loyal to the government- but no doubt moreso to themselves. I...try my best to stay out of their affairs as much as possible. I have my girls, and that’s all that’s needed.”

Something else springs to mind. “What about traveling arrangements? Is the tour bus subject to the same impenetrable field this village uses? Considering the massive prejudices towards Sirens being let loose I can imagine that some people would be more than uneasy, even IF they were on their strictest behavior…”

“The carriage will be furnished, spacious, and absolutely SATURATED with wards, Ms. Verde. Mr. Lexington is MANY things, several I’m not fond of...but one thing I cannot dispute is his warding ability.” Her tone quickly shifts from warm and casual to imperious and slightly affronted. “I’m well aware of the stigma being faced, and we’re taking every precaution, both with stage and sleeping areas, to be certain there’ll be no incidents between my girls and the public. That IS why you were hired, after all.”

Fair enough.

“Any more questions, miss?” Her tone quickly shifts back to warm and friendly- as if the brief bit just now never happened at all.

>Any further questions?

Just as well no responses yet; I need to get going, apologies for the short run, but I'll try and get back tonight- hopefully we can wrap up some stuff later tonight so we can get to the real meat n' potatoes of things.

>>1339707
>>1337105
Maybe we can take this opportunity to ask some details about siren magic. Is it unusual for another performer to come in and take control of the show? Is there anyway to snap them out of their performance?

>>1339707
>Rules of engagement if things go sour on the outside? Can I just pulp anyone starting shit or do I have to go non-lethal? What do I need to avoid to not get us in trouble with law enforcement?

Did Lexington get the collateral damage rider or not? Since this is a favor I guess it won't cost him extra but we should check with him anyway.

Ask if Purps is just a freak of nature or are people with similar power levels common and what are the odds we'll face people with weirdo magic powers?

>>1339707
How cooperative, or non-cooperative, should we be with local law enforcement?

I assume that with the public nature of her business, threats should be dealt with cleanly and preferably out of sight, so that negative PR doesn't come to the troupe.
Or should termination of threats be public in order to send a message?

Does she know anything about the type of magic that the assailant used? Is the creation of body doubles something that's capable with this world's magic, or was him dissipating into smoke a contingency spell?

I've just finished up D&D and it's half past midnight after a rough day. Since we're on Handler's POV right now we'll probably be picking up with these questions IC when he gets back.

One OOC answer for >>1339761 Lexington isn't the client for Handler; Switchwick is.

Sorry haven't done more today. I'll maybe set an alarm for handler returning from work and do some super early morning writing.
- Star

>>1339707
>>1339754
>>1339761
>>1339856
“A few. Now the wheels are turning, so to speak.” You find yourself looking at nothing in particular as some new thoughts whirls about in your head. “Can you tell me about siren magic? In particular, is it unusual for another performer to come in and take control of the show?”

“Extremely so,” she responds. “In fact, it’d never happened before this horrible occurrence. Siren magic is descended from very old magics; demonic, otherworldly energies strained, filtered, changed over the years and through various generations. It has its seeds ins conjuration and illusion- common succubi magics.”

Interesting, if not unexpected. “Hm. Is there anyway to snap them out of their performance? Without knocking them out, I mean.”

She shakes her head sadly. “They’d largely have to end it willingly or by force, I’m afraid. Yet another reason why Sirens are so feared and hated- there’s very little in the way of natural countermeasures that’s not extremely powerful and elaborate warding. Certainly nothing someone could develop in the moments between a Siren decided to turn a building into a jungle and then actually doing it.”

Hm. So you’ll have to be careful with how you belt them if need be.

Moving on, then. “Rules of engagement if things go sour on the outside?”

She blinks once. “Beg your pardon?”

“I mean, can I just pulp anyone starting problems if need be, or do I have to go non-lethal?” you elaborate. You’d gotten a bit of an order from her earlier, but you weren’t sure if it was still standing or not.

“Ah.” She nods. “I’ll permit lethal force, but do please use your best judgement. A squealing fan doesn't need his head cut off, to be sure…. But of course, any of those masked...THINGS should be dealt with with all due prejudice.” Her voice and face harden at the end there, and you can clearly see what she means to have to keep her girls safe.

You continue the questions. “What about law enforcement? We gonna have any troubles there? How cooperative, or non-cooperative should we be?”

She gets a worried look in her eye. “Cooperate with the locals as best you can unless you suspect they've been hit by siren seduction... or compromised by killers. Should the latter situation turn up...well, we’ll just have to deal with that as best we can.” She sighs, clearly not exactly relishing that possibility. “Really, should something happen- and I’m starting to think it will- then just do your best to handle it as quietly as possible. Within reason, of course.” Fair enough. Keep things on the low unless someone’s life was at stake.

“Understood. I’ll have to mention this to Purps soon.” Then something dings in your head. “Actually, that reminds me. What’s with her? Do you know, I mean. Is she just an unusually powerful girl, or is it plausible someone like her might be behind this, or just a potential obstacle?” By all accounts, you’d been under the impression that Purps was relatively unique.

cont.

>>1341113
“Ah...so, you’re not entirely aware of the nature of Starborn?” You shake your head. Special folk, presumably, then.

She hums and haws. “Well, to keep it simple, Starborn are...well, strange. They’re nigh ageless, to a point, extremely powerful, physically, and often in matters of magic as well. Very unusual, they are. Not very liked, either, precisely because of those facts.” That sounds familiar. “I have to admit, I’m a bit surprised you’re asking...ah, but nevermind all that. They’re rather strong, and yes, there’s more than a couple out there, though they aren’t exactly common. I SUPPOSE it’s possible there’s another out there that you may have to contend with, but...I can’t imagine why they’d bother. Although…” she trails off briefly. “Hm. Well, perhaps we should keep a careful eye out.”

Good to know. "Then, do you know anything about the type of magic that the assailant used?”

“Well, by all accounts, it was simply powerful illusion magic, as well as some mental coercerion. Not entirely common, but certainly not unheard of- at least, in general. It’s the level of illusion that concerns me- if it was as thorough as the girls, yourself, and little Purps stated, then…well, apart from a Siren, I can’t think of anything other than a power mage that could do that.”

Hm. “Is the creation of body doubles something that's capable with this world's magic, or was him dissipating into smoke possibly a contingency spell?”

“Goodness, but I have to admit I’m getting a bit exhausted here,” she admits. “I’m unsure how much more I can answer. Again, I’d say such a powerful illusion would be possible, if difficult. The smoke...I suppose it could be perhaps a spell, yes, or an enigma.” She catches your questioning look, and quickly shakes her head, trying to clear it. “I-It’s something unique to Starborn, as I recall- a skill or spell all their own that they can engage naturally. It’s possible, if that was a Starborn, for that to be their enigma, I suppose. I can’t say I’m confident it was one, however.”

“Best not to close any possibilities, ma’am.” you insist.

“Right, right…” You can see her; she DOES look genuinely tired now. “Well! As bracing as this was, I’m afraid I have some sleep to catch up on; we move out tomorrow, and I need to be well-rested. I trust you have some method of trading watches for the night?”

“If need be. I can go for a number of days at high performance without sleeping if it ends up necessary.” you offer as she walks you to the door.

“Quite the professional...very well, then. I’ll leave you to it. Have a good night, Miss Verde.” With that, you exit, the door closing shut behind you. You’re already mapping out shift rotations in your head.

Tomorrow was just the beginning.

And that's it for the meet n' greet. Now things are gonna get more dicey. Quite literally in some cases!

>>1341120
Oh, damnit!

Too late to ask questions? I still got some. (In case of that not being the case, at least I have written my questions down. Maybe Purps can them later on.)

> What was Billie like? As a person?
Personal motives cannot be eliminated just yet.

> What are the crystals in the stage for?
What ARE they for? The girls used some magic, maybe they serve as a catalyst? Batterie?

>>1341458

I could answer these OOC but we'll find some way to slip them in IC.

don't worry pinky.

- Star

>>1341941
You give it to the pinky

>>1342207

Preeeeeetty sure that is magenta. And your are one pinky yourself, now aren't you?
On the other hand, what IS the classification of all these violet tones?

Hope y'all are doing alright today. A bit late, but we're here. I'll be writing in a bit; apparently I'm kicking things off today!

Yup Handler's in charge for around 40 more minutes.

- Star

>>1341120
Another sniff. Still nothing. Well, nothing unexpected, at least.

It’s been a couple of hours since you’ve all packed up and headed out- fortunately everything went smoothly enough. Lexington was following behind in his own carriage, although he impressed upon you and Purps that he was just there for emergencies. Fine with you, you suppose. The night wasn’t all that long for you, and Purps had been decent enough to take first watch. You’d be more than fine until you reached your first stop.

“You alright, Verde?” You look over to your side, Purps having asked the question. She’d been riding on the outside of the carriage up-front, while you’d been sitting cross-legged on the top of it. “That’s the fourth time you’ve sniffled. Are you getting sick?” It was strange how that came across in a near monotone, but you didn’t question it.

“I’m just fine,” you assure. “Just keep an eye out.” She glances at you strangely, but then just shrugs and turns back to the road.

You could hear the girls still jabbering away in the carriage, if only just barely; their excitement was palpable. You figure you could understand that, considering how often they were basically locked away from society at large. This chance might not come again for them for a long, long time, and fortunately that damned phantom hadn’t shown up yet. Of course, that didn’t mean he wouldn’t.

Another sniff.

>Roll 1d20, Best of Three!

Seems slow. We'll check again in another thirty minutes. After that, if there's any responses/rolls, we'll just take those and go from there.

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>1342585

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>1342585

Starborn Dice coming to play.

- Star

Hmph. 5 minutes left for one more chance...

Well then! Locked.

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>1342585
TOO LATE?!

>>1342773

Far too late.

- Star

>>1342773
TOO LATE.

File: Harwolf.jpg (213 KB, 910x720)

213 KB JPG

>>1342585
>>1342686
>>1342722

Unfortunately, you aren’t the only thing sniffing out here. As a hulking furred creature slams into the sirens’ carriage with authority, you’re quick to leap off out of sheer instinct. The girls inside scream as the monster’s charge tilts, then with a thunderous crash puts the vehicle on it’s side. “Harwolves.” Purps monotones next to you as you land, having taken a similar tack..

The things remind you of werewolves, only far more...domestic? No, not quite. Large, bipedal, but furred and clearly vicious, their fangs gleam in the daylight, and you can see more than a couple of them snarl in delight, their coarse brown fur barely hiding able musculature. They carry axes and large knifes, from a glance as they circle- one of them in particular is carring a LARGE double-headed battleaxe. They’re sparsely clothed, however, which is good for you- less armor, the better. Another- the one that knocked over the carriage in the first place, is spotted in places, howling about his ‘success’. He wields a massive club, roaring to all and sundry. Another is carrying a pickaxe, easily capable of splitting a boulder in two with one strike.

The girl next to you has pulled her saw from her hip and before your eyes it has became the large polearm you saw she carried yesterday. Considering the number of the brown furred creatures, you’d expect her to look a lot less calm than she is. But she looks ready to go, at least.

You’re going to have to conduct this fight carefully- the girls in the carriage are still yelling with worry, although the wards seem to have held, the horses also having been scattered and ran off. Switchwick you can hear in the carriage trying to calm the girls down; but enough of that. You’ve got a job to do.

Miranda:
>Engage aggressively; pick a target and go after them. Better they get no chance to attack at all.
>Fight defensively- if they get close to the carriage, you’ll smash them. But only then, until the girls recover themselves.
>Try to lead them away from the carriage in general, or at least play decoy.
>Other

Purps:
> [DETERMINATION] Alpha Harwolf? Meet Polesaw
> [CURIOSITY] Two saws mean twice the kills
> [GRATITUDE] Take their weapons with magnets. Because you can do that… you forget sometimes
> [LUST] Let’s give the whip some field testing
> Write-In

>COMBO OPTION

>>1342812
>>Engage aggressively; pick a target and go after them. Better they get no chance to attack at all.
>> [GRATITUDE] Take their weapons with magnets. Because you can do that… you forget sometimes

Should specify the targets.

>>1342812
Seconding >>1342825 though, makes enough sense.

Since we're quiet; 10 more minutes for this vote.

- Star

>>1342867
Mostly Overview for this vote. Dice rolling determines who gets attaked and how well.

LOCKED.

Time for dice.

1st dice is Purps
2nd Dice for Miranda

- Star

Rolled 1, 11 = 12 (2d20)

>>1342910

Rolled 11, 16 = 27 (2d20)

>>1342910

Rolled 8, 9 = 17 (2d20)

>>1342910
Here goes.

>>1342923
>>1342926
>>1342930

PURPS

> Would you like to activate No Sell

>Y
>N

>>1342934

Please Hold While Handler asks me if we're actually doing crits.

- Star

Crits are active so we return to the question of:

Purps uses No Sell?

>Y
>N

>>1342950
>Y

>>1342950
Ehhhhh...I guess.

>Y

Kind of feels like a waste though

>>1342977
>>1342962

Writing.

File: Harwolf 3.jpg (174 KB, 1280x737)

174 KB JPG

PURPS

Harwolves are a strange creature, animalistic - yet sentient. Pack focused, yet calculating. So as you begin the process of changing a polesaw into raging, revving saw gauntlets you maintain eye contact with the battleaxe wielding Alpha.

Heading off the road to the treeline, Verde kicks off behind you. Whatever she’s doing sends the smell of burnt fur up into the air; hopefully the yelps of his pack will make this monster a lot more inclined to - you stop as a pickaxe embeds itself in your forehead with a meaty thunk. Immediately after your back is assaulted by two blades. This does not affect your posture in the slightest and the Alpha seems to notice something is up by the lack of blood spurt or murder. He begins growling.

[No Sell Activated] [Magnetic Pulse Activated]

Raising your gauntlet clad hands you make a pulling gesture, a flash of purple light running over your fingers as the harwolves weapons are yanked roughly from their hands; they orbit around you as the two who struck you fall back to the big one’s side cowering.

Judging by the lack of reaction behind you when you stole their weaponry; Verde already cleaned up.

> Magnetic Pulse Part2 :Give them their weapons back.

> [CURIOSITY] Dance of death. Been a while since you tested your agility.

> [DETERMINATION] Make the alpha your bitch

> Write-In

>>1343028
>> [DETERMINATION] Make the alpha your bitch

>>1343028
>> [DETERMINATION] Make the alpha your bitch

>>1343028
>[DETERMINATION] Make the alpha your bitch

>>1343028

> [DETERMINATION] Make the alpha your bitch.

Miranda, too. Dogpile on the dog.

5 more minutes.

Totally wasn't distracted by anything lewd.

- Star

>>1343028
> [DETERMINATION] Make the alpha your bitch

Locked, Writing

File: Protag Tomboy1.jpg (64 KB, 1280x720)

64 KB JPG

Letting the weapons drop to the ground with a dull sequence of clanks, thunks and whumps, you continue advancing on the Alpha. The beast’s hackles rise and a growl emanates from it’s throat as it’s two compatriots cower behind it. He towers over you by a good foot and a half, but you catch the polesaw as it forms directly in front of you.

The Harwolf alpha eyes the weapon, but before it can even react, you’ve grasped your weapon in both hands and spun it. Rotating yourself along with it, you swing the blunt side underhand and land a satisfyingly painful strike - right between the thing’s legs. It falls, adopting the old fetal position; “Now then. How about you right the carriage and we’ll call it a draw.” From anyone else it’d sound light hearted and cheeky; but from you, the mangled statement is warped and unnatural.

You hear a small chuckle from in Verde’s direction as she mutters something beneath her breath. Before you can say anything, she speaks up louder. “I doubt he'd call that a draw. Or anything, really.”

“No, he understands us. Harwolves are sentient.” You retort as you swing the blunt end of the polesaw into his back, the hulking monster squealing like a puppy after it’s paw is stepped on. It glares hatefully at you as it crawls towards the sirens’ carriage with tail between it’s legs. “Mangy things actually just choose to act like savages; there’s apparently some in Cadalon who’re civilised.” You say to Verde as if discussing a particularly strange plant or the weather… you’re not good at small talk.

“That's stupid,” she notes idly as the big guy lumbers forwards. “It just makes them a massive target.”

Your new pet is now trying to get his forepaws underneath the carriage his clubber friend charged into. Honestly, as far as beasts of burden go he’d probably beat anything produced of Zanarad.

> [FRUSTRATION] Report in to Switchwick, as much as you’d rather not.

> [PRIDE] Boast like a motherfucker

> [CRUELTY] Straight up Murder Harwolf once he’s done

> [WORRY] Check on the Sirens immediately

> Write-In

>>1343246
>> [WORRY] Check on the Sirens immediately

>>1343246
>[WORRY] Check on the Sirens immediately

5 more minutes.

>>1343246
> [FRUSTRATION] Report in to Switchwick, as much as you’d rather not.

To be different.

>>1343337
>>1343276
>>1343251

Forgot to say LOCKED

File: Harwolf 2.jpg (17 KB, 365x350)

17 KB JPG

But thoughts of selling your Harwolf bitch for a massive amount of money falls to the wayside as you hurry to the carriage as it is returned to it’s wheels. You’re a half step behind Verde who has already stepped up to the little ledge that allows someone to reach up and open or enter the huge unwieldy transport.

As the green haired bodyguard hauls open the door, you head back up in order to ensure Bitch doesn’t get any ideas. As he makes his way back to the treeline with ears laid flat against his head, he scoops up a couple of weapons.

Verde is quick to speak. “You all alright in there? Any injuries?”

“Nothing more than a broken nail.” Switchwick reports, “You’d think these girls were children, I swear.”

“We tipped over! I was scared, okay!” Loti shouts.

“Crying was a bit of an overreaction.” Me-Gan teases.

“Louuuuuuuuudddddd!” Velth whines, closing her sightless eyes and covering her ears as the others begin bickering.

Verde sighs as she looks back at you and shrugs, which perfectly sums up your response to their bitching. “Those things were ridiculously fast. At least initially. We got lucky they didn't seem to think much of us.” She briefly turns back to Switchwick. “My apologies. I'll have to keep a better eye out in the future.”

“I’m sure you will.” Switchwick replies, “Could you send Purps in please.”

She, Verde and you all share a lovely awkward pause. A pause so awkward that it would feel at home in a funeral home if it had been caught fucking the husband of the deceased. That kind of awkwardness.

In this moment you have to make a choice.

> Nope.jpg

> [FRUSTRATION] Fine.
> Tell her I’m not here Verde

> Write-In

>>1343521
>> [FRUSTRATION] Fine.

>>1343521
> Tell her I’m not here Verde

Because hahaha nah. Girl did fine.

Right; I'm off to bed gentlemen. It's almost 3am and Handler should be in by 5am my time.

I love you all; thread is archived.

Things are about to get real, real soon.

- Star

>>1343521
> Fine
We're supposed to be helping these people, not antagonizing them. It isn't like we're not used to only getting respect at the point of a blade.

We'll continue this in another thread tomorrow. hopefully. Was planning to run today, but I'm not feeling grand. Will keep you posted.