first

>>1727688
The night is wiled away with such stories between you three, and full of questions by the newcomers. Mono seems especially curious about the exploits of you three, and you’re stuck pretty much telling her stories all night, until at last the three senior of you agree it’s time to pack it in. However, that brings up a salient point…

“So, who’s Mono stayin’ with?” Lorelei asks. It’s true- Owlia and Cylica have their own place; you’d gotten a call from Sal earlier saying their finances were released in part now that they have a job under their belts- enough for them to get a basic place to stay.

The two in question likely would have objections to anyone else so soon, so you might have to see which of you three could house her for now.

Seeing the indecision in your eyes, Mono speaks up. “I can just sleep in the new building we have,” she offers. “I think it’d be an interesting experience!”

Ehh…you're not sure about that, but then again...well, you suppose it depends. Chances are the more she stays around one of you, the more she'll pick up from them. Izumi and Lorelei both seem interested in her in one way or another.

>Well...if you like. We'll get you blankets and all that.
>No...you can bunk with me for now. Don't worry, I’ll keep things in order.
>Izumi, you got room at your place with all those weapons?
>Lorelei, you’ve been wanting to get to know her better, right?

>>1727699
>No...you can bunk with me for now. Don't worry, I’ll keep things in order.

We'll awooo the night away.

>>1727688
Im trying to imagine miranda with her wrestler perspna. Was she something like that before she was sent here? Or was she always serious?

>>1727699
>option 2.

We brought her in. it would be rude if we let her sleep on an empty hangar.

[sopiler]or maybe we could do a sleepover with lorelei and izumi[/spoiler]

>>1727706
Before she was at the Intersection, Miranda was a lot more...outspoken and vibracious. She legit was a big mouth. After she got sent here, well...

...I should start doing those interludes again.

>>1727699
>No...you can bunk with me for now. Don't worry, I’ll keep things in order.
We're responsible for her now.
Even if Izumm really wanted a new kohai that she could be the sempai for.

5 minutes, then lock!

Locked, incidentally. She sleeps with US!

>>1727699
>>1727703
>>1727714
>>1727729
“You can bunk with me, Mono,” you offer. “It’ll be a bit of a tight fit, but my place is pretty clean, and the bed’s-”

“I’ll take the couch if you have one, it’s not a problem.” Huh. Mono’s pretty accommodating. “Don’t worry.”

Well, it’s fine with you. As the night adjourns and you go your separate ways, you end up getting some spare blankets out for her, and do your best to clean any spare mess up. “So, what are we doing tomorrow?” she asks.

“Well, we need to get you registered and tested,” you note. “You can’t just up and start going out. And I’m going to need to probably actually look into starting some basic orders for our new ‘headquarters’.” The way you say that isn’t exactly indicative of a glowing impression.

“So, you’re kinda the leader of them, right?” she asks. “You seem to be the most...organized, I guess? Well, maybe Miss Izumi, but…uh, anyway. I was wondering...I want to do what you do. Sorta, I mean...I want to go places, do things. I’m...willing to. I want to!”

“You sure?” You turn to her, all in your sleepwear. “It’s not easy stuff. You could just get a job here, or do what Owlia and Cylica do, and go courier, do collection work. Less stress.”

She shakes her head. “No. I-I get what you do. But the way I see it... it’s kinda like acting, anyway, right? You have to put on a mask, and dedicate yourself to the performance, even if what you are backstage is really really different. And dangit, I’m pretty good at actin’. Just...this is an act for keeps.”

Well, you can’t say that’s entirely wrong. “...Alright. We’ll sign you up for Enforcer testing tomorrow. Let’s hope you get a decent rank off the top.”

She nods in determination. “Right.” You turn to head to bed, before her voice stops you once again. “Uh, say. Before you go, I have to ask...if you had to name one thing that got you through missions the best, what would it be?”

"Interesting question," you note. "Why do you ask?"

"Well...I need to learn sooner than later, right? Why not now?"

Hm. Fair. Well, you needed a bit of everything, really, but if one trait you figured stood out that kept jobs finished and motes in pocket, then it'd have to be...

>Discipline.
>Determination.
>Sheer Force.
>Other.

>>1727842
>>Discipline.

>>1727842
>>Sheer Force.

>>1727842
>Improvisation/Adaptability
I mean, for most of the missions in this quest we kind of made up our plan as we went along and learned about the world.

>>1727842
Jeeez....
>other. It tends to be between dicipline and sheer force really.

Considering out last missions:
We need discipline to keep things smoothly trough most of the missions, but we usually need to end up using sheer force at the end of it.

>>1727842
>Sheer Force, unless they buy the collateral rider. Tsk.
>Being professional is paramount. No matter how easy it is to wipe a city off the map, if your client don't want you to do it, you don't do it. Do what they ask and don't lift a finger for anything else unless they pay.

5 minutes until lock. This one's a real influencer.

>>1727881
Seconding

>>1727889
Oh boy.
[Sweating intensifies].webm

Alllrighty. Writing.

>>1727842
>Determination
Is she asking what held us through the missions emotionally, or what helped in actually completing the contract from a mission completion context?

>>1727842
>>1727862
>>1727876
>>1727881
>>1727893
“Sheer force,” is your answer. “You’re gonna need enough power to get through a lot of these jobs, and oftentimes the job is going to need cracking or cutting up a few skulls, or worse. If nothing else, it also tends to help with convincing people to help.”

“Huh.” She looks thoughtful for a moment, as though internalizing it, before nodding resolutely. “Got it. I’mma get as strong as possible, then!”

You nod in approval. “Just be careful if they buy the minimum collateral rider.”

Her face morphs into confusion. “Wait, huh?”

“Like you said, sometimes you have a role to play. Depending on what riders clients buy, that influences that role.” A soft ‘ohhh’ comes from her in understanding. “Something else to keep in mind that’s related; power is important to finishing jobs, but being professional is paramount to keep you ON the job. No matter how easy it is to wipe a city off the map, if your client don't want you to do it?” You fix her with a hard stare. “Then you don't do it. Do what they ask and don't lift a finger for anything else unless they pay. Know how to treat your client, your target, and your yourself.”

“Ohh...right. That makes sense, considerin’ how you were with us.” She looks a bit more out of it, wondering. “Alright...think I can do that! Thanks!” With that, she leans back on the couch, giving you a last look. “Night!”

“Night.” At least she got the picture.

-----------

Morning strikes, and it’s not too particular- Mono seems to have slept fairly well, and you both have a basic breakfast. A quick confirmation that Lorelei and Izumi will meet up with you later, and you’re both off to the Outgoer Training Clinic. “You DO have a weapon of choice, right?”

She nods. “Sword.” Figures, considering what her phantom had.

“Fine. Can tell you from experience, they’re going to run you through some basic rules of engagement, test you on them quiz style, give you a basic one on one combat trial in both melee and firearm combat since you can’t shoot naturally, then give you a test run in a simulated field on a few basic mission styles back to back.” While you couldn’t help much with Owlia and Cylica’s, hers you can provide assistance with. “If I’m remembering correctly, there’s silent assassination, VIP defense, and hunt and destroy.”

“Gotcha. So...I’m gonna have to learn how to shoot, huh?” She seems a bit nervous at that.

You shrug. She doesn’t SEEM like she’ll have a lot of trouble. “Eh, you’ll be fine- the bar isn’t TOO high to clear. So long as you can hit a decent sized target reliably, you’re good. Still, I thought it prudent to help you through the basics. Brush up on your hand to hand and swordplay, then see how good you are with a gun.”

As you and her get off Red and head inside, she turns to you. “Right...WOW, this place is big. So, what are we doing first?”

>Melee Combat: Hand to Hand
>Melee Combat: Swordplay
>Basic Firearms Training

>>1728031
>Firearms training.
She more or less should understand the other two.

>>1728031
>Basic Firearms Training
>Other: include Energy Weapons as well
Lasers, Plasma, Disruptors, and Gauss weaponry. Just enough so that she knows how much recoil and sound each one produces, so she's not surprised if it comes up.

>>1728031
>Basic Firearms Training

Figure out how much time we have to invest in this.

I didn't read the crossover so no idea what her skills or possible magic is like. She's some sort of support bard?

Can she sing her bullets to their targets? Or do somethong like the blue dude in Guardians of the Galaxy?

>>1728031
> swordfight
Start with something easy to get warmed too.
Sword is a weirdly pronounced word for its spelling.

>>1728031
>>Melee Combat: Hand to Hand
Melee is our thing.
Buzz Lorelei and get her to coach for firearms

>>1728057
She has a writeup in the pastebin: https://pastebin.com/9J70gqM2, and I went over details about her general skills here: >>1722139 (questions, with followup answers.)

>>1728031
>>Basic Firearms Training

5 minute heads up.

Okay! Let's see if Mono can learn how to pewpew quickly.

GIMME A ROLL. 5d20, best of three, best OVERALL score.

Rolling for the basics in:

Pistol proficiency/assault rifle proficiency/sniper rifle proficiency/explosive weapon proficiency/energy weapon proficiency

Rolled 20, 17, 14, 2, 12 = 65 (5d20)

>>1728118

Rolled 11, 17, 6, 19, 19 = 72 (5d20)

>>1728118

Rolled 14, 5, 16, 10, 9 = 54 (5d20)

>>1728118

Seems like she's meh with pistols (might be her giant hands), good with assault rifles, crap with sniper rifles, and pretty comfy with explosive weapons and energy weapons. Not too shabby!

I'll be back later tonight. Work.

>>1728197
>giant hands.
What.

Also, can we have mono's general description and/or her picture?

>>1728284
>giant hands.
*paws

>>1728419
That might explain why she's good assault rifles, energy weapons and explosives.

>>1728518
How? I can't into guns too well.

>>1728588
They're bigger and might not need as much dexterity?

Are there places in the intersection that modify equipment for people with unusual limbs?

>>1728588
( basing it on videogame logic; im nowhere close to be a /k/ommando)
Because assault rifles requires you to "spray and pray"; you only need to squeeze the trigger less times than a conventional weapon. Energy weapons have a similar logic and explosives, well, her big hands/paws/whatever should help her throw the explosives better/farther away

>>1728611
there should be . I doubt somebody would miss a market opportunity like that.

>>1728197
Wait what? Giant Hands?

>>1728419
Does that mean no thumbs? Is this like, a fuckable wolf-girl or a furry wolf-girl? Or like a werewolf?

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>>1728284
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1csg7vC-Yz10aAqk9ZwdCNv24obLGTtM5p6bKkPq1Pgc/edit#heading=h.74gk3dg6mvjp

Nothing from the Starborn dudes shit.

Since she apparently does musical illusions, but is effectively useless due to limitations on using them, this is now her pic.

Were-bard.

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>>1728284
Alternative picture with "Muh Big Haaaaandz"

Oddly enough this came out of "Fuckable Lycanroc".

I hope you appreciate the mass of furfaggotry I had to wade through to get this.

Just got back. Ended up staying late due to stupid last-minute junk.

>>1729632
Not quite her, and she's got more going for her than just that. I wouldn't call her skills useless just yet.

>>1729640
And why would you do that? It is closer, though.

Anyway, it's late, but I said I would write when I got back, and I'm back, so I'll write at least one more entry.

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>>1729649

Well I guess next we should test her magic out then to figure out what it's good for.

Also is this it then?

>>1729632
I wouldnt call her weak. Considering the crossover, and handlers description, i would call her a low level reality warper. As long as she is focused and singing, the stuff she summons or changes(?) is real. Which is quite powerful.

>>1729675
No, she's brown-haired, scraggly, wolf ears, hands that end in claws, slightly larger than normal. Sharp teeth and red facial markings. Tended to wear torn up traveling robes/clothing in general. About 5'6-5'7 or so.

Anywho, as stated, writing.

>>1729687
Ooooh. This is a nice description.

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>>1729687

>>1729729
Less furry.

File: Furry Mononoke.jpg (254 KB, 1280x1280)

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>>1729734

>>1729741
I'll get something myself. Just be patient.

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>>1729742
But I'm slowly zeroing in!

>>1728031
>>1728047
>>1728057
>>1728048
>>1728135
Well, initial tests proved middling- you walk her through the basics of firearms- frankly you just feel fortunate that she comes from a world WITH guns, so you don’t have to give her a 101 lesson on what they even ARE. She recognizes pistols well enough, but actually getting one into her hands proves a bit...iffy. Her hands are a bit too large to handle most of them comfortably, and the standard two-hand grip has her nearly engulf most common pistols- it’s only the handcannons that really allow her any kind of comfort. Still, she manages to get the grip down decently, along with firing off a few test rounds- as expected, she’s a bit stunned by the recoil of the handcannons, and in one particular instance you need to help brace her since she nearly cracks her own nose with the recoil on one of the .50 calibers. Probably not the best idea to let her try, but eh. No pain, no gain.

The assault rifles prove to be more her speed- she handles them much more comfortably, and she’s actually able to aim decently enough with it after you get her to stop putting the damn thing under her arm while firing. She’s quick to get a feel for it, and you’re able to segue it into teaching her some basic reloading techniques and aiming strategies. She picks it up well enough, at least- although you can tell she might have some issues remembering to do so at all.

Sniper rifles...prove unwieldy, to say the least. She’s not at all used to the positioning for one, and she seems utterly unable to aim down the long distances needed for a decent sniper, even with sights and crosshairs- the noise as well proves a massive deterrent, even with protective headphones on. You’re not actually too dismayed- sniping’s a skill in and of itself, and you quickly move on without bothering to go beyond how to reload one just in case.

Explosive weapons, on the other hand! You’re honestly rather pleased to see that she seems to take to grenade and rocket launchers fairly well! She seems to be able to carry an underslung grenade launcher with ease; her hands are large and just enough to assist in steadying the launchers despite the kickback- it’s not as sudden and concentrated as with the guns, and she’s able to nail a few test targets flush, even. You and her actually get into a bit of a friendly competition once you realize her knack for grenade launchers- you win handily, but she accounts for herself well enough for a beginner- there’s a few shots off, but hardly anything to worry about.

cont.

>>1729792
The energy weapons also prove to be rather pleasing for her- they’re as a whole a bit bigger than their physical matter-based counterparts due to the energy generation needed, and despite her absolute shock at how deadly one of these things are (particularly when she gets her mitts on the gauss weapons), she proves a natural with them with the weapon’s sizes and unorthodox shapes proving far better fits for her (save for a few), and the lessened or nonexistant recoil being an excellent boon. You end up walking her through the general suite of types- going by general intensity, best usage, how they may need reloading (clips and batteries and charge stations, and whatnot) and more thorough maintenance than other such guns.
---------

You’re not sure how much time has passed, but by the time you and her exit the firing range, you’re surprised to see Izumi and Lorelei both sitting down casually on a bench nearby. “Hey!” Izumi’s the first to greet you. Lorelei’s surprisingly quiet, just giving you a small smile and waving at you briefly before turning back to what seems to be a small booklet in her hand. “You’ve finished at the firing range without me? Tsk, tsk, tsk,” Izumi chides. “You should’ve waited- you know I’m always willing to share my knowledge of weaponry!”

“Yeah, but turns out she leans more towards my end of that field,” you say with a grin as you turn towards the girl in question. “Hope you like more explosions.”

“Ugh. I swear, you have no appreciation for the subtleties of gunplay,” she grouses lightly. “Anyway, you’re helping prep her for the enforcer test, right? What all have you gone through?”

“Just firearms.” you confirm. “Still want to see how she is with a blade.”

“Well, since you already handled guns, I think I should get that honor.” Izumi asks. And then she leans a bit closer to you, whispering. “Besides, I think you should talk to Lorelei. I took her to her first group session today, and she seems a bit...out of it, y’know? I thought the class was well-taught, but when I asked her what she figured she just...got quiet. I’ve not been able to crack her.”

>Maybe she just needs some time to internalize it?
>I’ll see if I can get something out of her, then.
>Do you think it was a mistake?
>Other

>>1729795
Why is Lorelei in a group session? Fuck it, let's vote.

>Do you think it was a mistake?

>>1729795
>Option 3

Oh boy. I totally had forgotten that lorelei was in special classes.

Alright, off to bed, will resume when I wake up.

>>1729814
During the last job with all three of them, Lorelei had a near-death experience via mana depletion. She ended up being taken to a mana basin to recharge. She had a mental out of body experience, then inadvertently hijacked Miranda's body at one point shortly thereafter, and once they all got back, she went to seek help for the issue. Folks decided to sign her up for group meditative classes in the end.

File: 20170801_012820-1.jpg (933 KB, 1152x1675)

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Hope that it is close to what mono looks like

>>1729795
>Maybe she just needs some time to internalize it?
>I’ll see if I can get something out of her, then.
Something feels off...

>>1729852
>near-death experience
Wait, running out of mana is lethal?

>>1729795
>>I’ll see if I can get something out of her, then.

>>1729864
DRAWFAGS ARE THE BESTSESTES

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>>1729864

That's pretty damn close.

Here is the original image I used for mono.

I would have been here to help out with descriptions but I was at fiance's last night.

File: Mono without wolf head.png (1.74 MB, 1920x1080)

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>>1730049

And one that I used for Mono when she was heading to bed; she wore a kind of nightcap thing to keep the ridiculously fur like auburn hair from smothering her.

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>>1730049
> It's princess mononoke

> It's Mono

I don't know how to feel about this. Wait. No. I know exactly how to feel about this.

>>1730061

I would never drop hints to things in the names of people.

>>1729795
> I'll see if I can get something out of her, then.
Maybe she is just subdued because she had to confront this thing again.
>>1729864

>>1729795
>I’ll see if I can get something out of her, then.

>>1729795
>>1729833
>>1729880
>>1730033
>>1730083
>>1730084
Well, that's a mystery for you.

“I'll do my best, then, see if I can get something out of her.” you whisper back to Izumi, then start speaking at normal volume again. “You go and show Mono how to use a sword properly.”

As expected, wolfgirl takes offense to that one. “I know how to use one alread-”

“No, you just think you do,” Izumi quickly interrupts. “A common misunderstanding.” she's practically dragging the poor thing off to the training rooms. “Come, and I’ll show you what truly knowing your weapon entails.” The wolf girl squints her eyes as she's dragged along, but says nothing otherwise. Before very long, it's just you and Lorelei. Still doesn't say anything as you walk up to her carefully, and sitting down next to her just gets you a smile and a nod.

You're curious enough to lean over her shoulder in order to get a look at the book that she’s reading. It's a small thing, and fits almost perfectly into her palm. You're not sure about the title, but from what you can skim of the contents, it seems to be a self-help booklet of sorts; whatever she's reading now is about tips to maintain emotional stability, apparently.

>Ask about the book. Try to keep it light.
>Ask about her. Mention Izumi’s concern.
>Take the book from her: see what happens.
>Wait a while, see if she does anything.
>Other

Bah, dropped my trip.

>>1733651
>Ask about her. Mention Izumi’s concern.
She's got friends right here.

>>1733651
>ask about her. Mention Izumi's concerns

also hey handler! Kinda dropped out after 4th(?) thread of the crossover, it's good to be back to regular. Also wtf everybody got mad when it was suggested we grab Owlia and Cylica, something about "not making this pokemon". Was Mono coming with us not a choice or was it clearly different people voting that time around?

>>1733671
Bit of column A, bit of B. There was an opportunity to refuse her.

>>1733651
> Other
"So... Taken over anyone's body lately?"

>>1733671
wtf, everyone likes collecting pokegirls!

Friend things. Writing!

>>1733671
Sal wanted her and its probably best to go with what he wants.

>>1733671
I'm the one who said that pokemon stuff back then, but I also got quite a few accepted write-ins when we did attempt to recruit them.
When people began arguing to recruit Cylica there was no reason to aside from the guy liking her personality and that she survived a few good combat rolls when we weren't in top shape and didn't actually commit fully to murdering her.

Different players and Mono was really insistent on joining us. Sal was kinda personally involved in that job too and showed interest, Miranda doesn't really go against the boss' wishes.

I feel like Lorelei probably needs a hug, but Miranda doesn't seem the sort to initiate.

>>1733651
>>1733666
>>1733671
“So...you doing okay?” She shrugs, with a half smile. Smooth opening, operator. Let’s try again... “I’m just wondering, considering this silent treatment has us a bit worried- Izumi especially. We’re just tryin’ to look out for you by doing all this, y’know?” She just nods. Hm.

“Look, is there any way you can just tell us what’s eating at you? We DO care, Lori.” You usually weren’t one for nicknames, but…

It does seem to register with her a bit, as she raises a curious eyebrow, and turns towards you fully. You just shrug yourself in response.

Her eyes seem to flit between yourself and the book for a while, before sighing- it’s the most sound you’ve gotten from her so far, at least. She flips backwards in the booklet a bit, before up handing it to you with a solid *thump* on your lap, and you take the time to check the cover quickly. You’re not too surprised to see the title- Personal Help in Centering Oneself in Mind, Body, and Spirit’. Makes sense enough. But why…?

“Page fifty-eight.” You actually jar a little when she speaks- it’s quiet, a bit raspy, and not at all like you usually expect the boisterous girl to sound like. She says nothing further, so you instead read off the stated page.

“Oftentimes, a troubled mind is indicated by a rampant mouth. A common stress reliever and distraction, talking a great deal, even with a lack of subjects, tends to cause discord in the mind and the body- one moves too fast for the other to keep up with, while trying to ward off troubling thoughts that, usually, are of particular impact to one’s mental health. In this case, oftentimes it is far more beneficial to spend time in silent reflection, and recognize your ills, and find ways to come to terms with whatever facts troubles you, as opposed to letting the thoughts sit and fester alone. In this way the mind is like a garden- you must be careful to cultivate your positive thoughts like flowers, and prune the negative ones like weeds; however, you must be able to understand and acknowledge weeds from flowers in the first place to do so.”

Deep. Well, sorta.

A small laugh comes out of her mouth. “I think...maybe I talk too much.”

>Please. That’s bunk, and you shouldn’t rely on a book they gave you to figure yourself out.
>If you think it’ll help you out. I’ll miss your jabbering, though.
>Seems like an interesting way to go, I’ll admit…
>Other

>>1733800
>Seems like an interesting way to go, I’ll admit…
>Other: Seems to be working.

>>1733800
>Other
>True or not, precious little remains beneficial when taken to extremes. Even water and oxygen become toxic. "Understanding weeds from flowers" ought to involve thoughtful speaking, not holding your tongue forever.

>>1733800
this: >>1733816

>>1733800
>If you think it’ll help you out. Just, you know, simply keeping your mouth shut isn't going to solve anything, though. Talking a lot and talking too much is not the same thing.

>>1733800
This >>1733816
It's asking for a little introspection now and then, not a vow of silence.

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>>1733730
>tfw you were Cylica guy

I may have said something different at the time, but I primarily thought we could get sweet crystal tech from her if she came with us.

also I have no regrets about the personality thing shes great

>>1733800
>>Please. That’s bunk, and you shouldn’t rely on a book they gave you to figure yourself out.

"All this said, I'm personally not a fan of gardening."

Writing!

>>1733800
>>1733816
>>1733826
>>1733842
>>1733820
You lean back a bit, trying not to sigh in exasperation as you think of what to say. “Well...I guess if you ask me, then whether it’s true or not, very little remains beneficial when it’s taken to extremes.” She cocks an eyebrow at you, and you continue. I mean, even water and oxygen become toxic if you take in too much all at once. ‘Understanding weeds from flowers’ ought to involve more thoughtful speaking, not holding your tongue forever.”

Lorelei groans. “I know. Just got a lot on my mind, especially with losing it.”

“You’re not losing your mind, Lorelei, it’s just unwanted mental drifting. Speaking of, has it happened lately?” you ask.

She nods. “No possessions, though. Just...out of body experience.” She shivers a bit, wrapping her arms around herself. “It’s still creepy.”

“Probably will always be on some level,” you agree. “Just need to learn how best to deal with it. Also, you’re talking more. Good.”

“I guess…” she shrugs. “Maybe I just need to go on another job. A solo one. Let this sit on the backburner for a bit and get something to concentrate on. Gimme some practice in focusing right.” She gets up, shaking her hands as though they’ve been still or cold. “And speaking of practice, wanna see how wolfy’s comin’ along?” She’s got a much more familiar grin on her face now. “How much you wanna bet Izumi’s already flattened her like ten times by now?”

>Roll 4d20 for how effective Izumi’s Basic Training is for Swordplay. Stance, Footwork, Attacking, Defense.

>>1733989
Like last time, highest total wins out.

Rolled 9, 5, 17, 15 = 46 (4d20)

>>1733989

Rolled 20, 5, 15, 14 = 54 (4d20)

>>1733989

Rolled 18, 6, 9, 4 = 37 (4d20)

>>1733989

Stance is fantastic, Footwork is trash. Attacking and defense are both good.

Looks like she's got things to work on, but she's by no means a novice, just as she boasted. Writing.

>>1733989
>>1734002
>>1734032
>>1734044
As you both enter the Weapons Training Area, you both see a number of Outgoers practicing- there’s a duo that seem to be going through longsword forms with a slow but steadily increasing speed. Off in the corner there’s a single warrior training in what seems to be a warhammer style, and a third with a whip that reminds you more of gymnastics than any real combat style- and you’ve seen more than one whip-based combat style.

Near the back is where you’re headed, where you can see Izumi and Lorelei going through a few things. Lorelei’s quick to wave and call out, although she doesn’t do more than that. Izumi’s reaction makes it clear that it wasn’t expected, but you can see a bit more fire return to her eyes when she sets eyes on the wide-smiling Lorelei, and turns back to her charge with a bit more power in her voice as you both stand to the side and watch her work.

As it turns out, Mono’s not much of a liar. She indeed knows her way around basic swordplay; her stances are accurate for the style you recognize as Iaido, all about drawing the sword, making a one or a couple good cuts, and sheathing it in a smooth motion. The wolf-girl is quick to demonstrate to Izumi with a couple of test blows, much to her and your approval. She also showcases a bit of good form in attacking swiftly and deflecting attacks with the blade- they’re practice swords, but you can tell Mono has weight and speed behind her swings. You’re impressed, to be frank, and you’re curious if she might be able to do something with her illusory abilities combined with her quick swordplay…

...At least until she gets into serious sparring. It’s then that you see a very crippling weakness in her- the girl’s footwork is about as basic as it gets. She’s got little spacial awareness, and Izumi drives her to the edge of the ring with casual ease several times. She rarely thinks to attempt to maneuver around an opponent, and tends to rely on dashing in a straight line repeated, hoping for her natural speed to carry the day- at one point Izumi turns it into a game of bullfighting, showcasing her weakness by simply parrying her attacks or dodging entirely, and watching as an increasingly irate but unthinking Mono simply turns around and charges her again. “Oof,” Lorelei mutters under her breath. “Girl’s never been in a real fight, has she? Got all the hallmarks of someone that trained on dummies and nothing else.”

“That’s what I’m thinking,” you admit. “Gonna have to break that habit before she’s test-ready. Round six will eat her alive otherwise.” That was the one with the massive wasps. You hated that one, personally.

cont.

>>1734268
Izumi’s noticed, too, and by the end of it, Mono is panting and wobbly from being made to do nothing but dodge attacks and circle around in the hopes of Izumi drilling some movement sense into her. “Alright, that’ll do it for now,” Izumi says. “We’ll have to go over your hand to hand another day- you’re too tired for it now.”

“I...I still think...I’d be fine…” she pants. “Just...need to…”

“You need to rest,” you remark. “The test for Enforcers is rough road for folks without a history of combat. Fresh face like you needs to work at it a bit.” There’s a soft, subtle growl from her direction, but it quickly quiets down as she nods.

“So, what’s the plan for the foreseeable future, then?” Izumi asks.

“I’ve still got some mental stuff to unpack,” Lorelei remarks. “I’ll probably take a gig to set myself straight, then take it easy for a bit.”

“Understood entirely,” Izumi responds. “I’m just glad you’re talking about it.”

“Yeeaah…” with that settled, Izumi turns to you.

You’re…

>Going to look into having a job waiting in the next few days.
>Going to see about getting started on making our new HQ something half-decent.
>Spend the time working with Mono as closely as possible.
>Other

>>1734274
>>Going to see about getting started on making our new HQ something half-decent.

>>1734274
>>Going to see about getting started on making our new HQ something half-decent.

And run paused until I get back.

>>1734274
> look into a job
Mono had the test tomorrow and I'm sure her first job will be a milk run. People are more willing to learn after some experience to show them how little they know so I would rather leave intensive training with her till after that. As long as she doesn't get herself kill on the first job.
I didn't sign up to be any interior decorator.

>>1734274
>Going to see about getting started on making our new HQ something half-decent. And maybe train with mono.

>>1734274
>Going to see about getting started on making our new HQ something half-decent.
>Spend some time with Mono and make sure she has a handle on living in the Intersection and her new job and stuff. Maybe she can help us set up the HQ.

>>1734274
>Going to look into having a job waiting in the next few days.

>>1734274
>>Going to see about getting started on making our new HQ something half-decent.
>>Spend the time working with Mono as closely as possible.

>>1734274
>Spend the time working with Mono as closely as possible.

>>1734411
She needs to be tested before she can take a job, and the job she can take is limited by her rating.
And she's not ready for the test; Miranda already said so.

>>1734602
>>>1734411 (You)
>She needs to be tested before she can take a job, and the job she can take is limited by her rating.
No shit Sherlock.
>And she's not ready for the test; Miranda already said so.
Yesterday >>1727842 Miranda said she was signing her up today. If she is shit she'll just get a lower rank and have to work her way up, while earning motes.

>>1734680
Miranda said she's not test ready in >>1734268

>>1734602
>>1734680
Thought it was meant as 'We'll schedule an appointment tomorrow', not 'you'll take the test tomorrow.'

>>1734274
>Going to see about getting started on making our new HQ something half-decent.

>>1734274
>>1734293
>>1734310
>>1734422
>>1734428
>>1734437
>>1734463
>>1735197


“...going to try and see if anything can be done with that giant empty lot Sal calls a headquarters.” you decide. Thinking further on it, you look at Mono. “Might see if I can work in any training time with you if possible. Come on, let’s get you formally signed up.”

It’s boring, but simple to get her registered for testing; honestly, the sooner the better. That, and the clinic doesn’t actually allow for very delayed testing for more than one reason. You’re permitted to register up to three days in advance. “Hm. I’ll be busy, mostly, but if we’re doing this soon, you’re going to want someone to practice with…”

“Well, if the scenarios are the same, then you know I know ALL about the stuff with being sneaky and surprising.” Lorelei offers. “At least...when I want to be. Think I’ll have a better handle on it now, though…anyway, I can help her with that stuff. Not a problem!” She’s at least perkier now.

“And you know I’ve always been dedicated to protecting individuals.” Izumi offers resolutely. “I’ll run her as hard as I can.”

You know that despite saying this, they’ll all go through everything, but focus on a specialty wouldn’t be uncalled for, perhaps…You’d already mentioned how you figured pure force was the biggest help on finishing missions, but there’s more than one way to utilize it.

That, and it would be nice to have someone around to work with her even while you’re away on a mission. Provided they aren’t, of course.

As a reminder, As Mono is new and relatively fresh, you can influence how her skills grow by having her train with you or others more often.

>Have Lorelei primarily train her. (focus on deception and observation- Showgirl Path)
>Have Izumi primarily train her. (focus on defensive techniques and mental focus- Spiritual Path)
>No, she’ll stick with you for primary training. (focus on attack techniques and strength- Ravager Path.)
>Other (If multiple, will take longer to learn techniques, may not be as potent in them.)

>>1735450
>Have Izumi primarily train her. (focus on defensive techniques and mental focus- Spiritual Path)
Hmmm, not really sure. Her Illusiony stuff would be good for deception except she has to be singing at the time which is a bit of a giveaway.

>>1735450
>Have Izumi primarily train her. (focus on defensive techniques and mental focus- Spiritual Path)
Particularity because it mentions
>mental focus
We've just seen how she fight, having a level head would mean wonders as she will be able to bring out the most of her well founded basic skills, as well as helping with her siren abilities should she use it. Plus Izumi has already shown her in which part she lacks, and would be adequete in filling that hole in mono's tactics.
And I doubt Izumi of all people can make a mistake when teaching people, although she might potentially cause an influence to morals.

>>1735450
>Have Izumi primarily train her. (focus on defensive techniques and mental focus- Spiritual Path)

>>1735450
>Have Izumi primarily train her. (focus on defensive techniques and mental focus- Spiritual Path)

>>1735450
So the Outgoer Test is something that can be failed, and it's not just if you do badly you get a bad ranking you work to improve?

So Miranda saying that Mono isn't ready for the test really does mean that Mono would fail the test right now, not just get a bad score?
So the idea that she could get a low rank and take a milk run right now is unfeasible?

>>1735603
Yes and no. You can fail, but it's difficult. Beyond that, it's not exactly easy or quick to move up in Enforcer rank. You have to be vetted by whomever owns the company you work for, and you undergo a brief reranking evaluation. She could get say, a D rank and do a milk run...but then she'd be doing a lot of milk runs, unless someone else went with her.

It should also be noted that ranks aren't really hard and fast 'You cannot take jobs higher than this' rules. They're more skill/danger estimations. It's entirely plausible for, say, a D rank soldier to go on a job recommended for a C or B rank. Just the average odds don't bode well for them coming back, if they're going solo. That, and higher ranks generally = better perks/payment percentages. A job that'd pay say, 3 Motes to a D Rank outgoer might pay 5 to a C rank, even though the amount being paid overall by the client is the same.

>>1735450
>>No, she’ll stick with you for primary training. (focus on attack techniques and strength- Ravager Path.)

>>1735450
>>Have Lorelei primarily train her. (focus on deception and observation- Showgirl Path
She's a reality warping performer, work to her strengths

>>1735450
>>1736147
Seconded.

>>1735450
>Have Izumi primarily train her. (focus on defensive techniques and mental focus- Spiritual Path)

We can teach her more agressive stuff once she has this nailed down.

>>1735450
>>Have Izumi primarily train her. (focus on defensive techniques and mental focus- Spiritual Path)

>>1735450
>Have Lorelei primarily train her. (focus on deception and observation- Showgirl Path)
Two reasons why I think this might be worthwhile over Izumi's spiritualism: First, we've already got two who go in and leave a pile of corpses behind. And we've got two who go in and... do whatever the fuck Owlia and Cylica do. I get the feeling they'll do a lot of negotiation via intimidation given their attitudes during the collection mission and their backgrounds. But we've only got one who can go in and do the talky-sneaky silly distraction shit.

Second, this could give Lorelei a lot of practice "understanding weeds from flowers" as that booklet said. A task that helps her practice thinking carefully and speaking thoughtfully is exactly what she needs right now. She even said so herself (though she was thinking of missions at the time.)

That said, I do think Izumi's spiritualism will be good for Mono, and it's not like "primarily" is synonymous with "exclusively," no matter which we pick.

>>1735450
>Have Lorelei primarily train her. (focus on deception and observation- Showgirl Path)
Distraction and having the attention on her is what Mono has trained all her life.

>>1733730
> Different players and Mono was really insistent on joining us.

I assume it's because Handler has a fetish specific plan for the character.

>>1735835
The joys of sub-contracting. Our end goal should be to have our own company at the end, you never get rich working for someone else.

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>>1736817
Wut

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>>1736817

You realise I made the character right? And she's native to the Starborn setting.

>>1736843
Gotta be honest with you here buddy, roughly 100% of the characters I have a fetish plan for are created by other people.

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>>1736913

Probably shouldn't mention the fact my cast also includes what is essentially shota mustang with Dio powers.

>>1735450
> Find a summoner to train her.

> Have lorelei train her

Honestly she should be hiding herself and summoning shit to fight for her, or controlling the battlefield.

Regardless, we already have two wreckers another support wild be better.

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>>1736843
I'm out on my phone now, but as >>1736913 points out that changes nothing.

>>1735450
>Have Lorelei primarily train her. (focus on deception and observation- Showgirl Path)

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>>1736913
>>1736926

Well nevermind then. Enjoy Mono's booty.

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>>1736937
This is a blue board!

Only safe Awoo images here please.

>>1736921
>>1735450

Actually can we find someone to train her as a "Controller"? Summoning stuff and changing battlefield conditions to support the others?

Honestly seems shortsighted to try and copy one of the already established roles.

>>1736985
true, she could really excel in a support role

>>1737002
Too late for a write in option to win though really.

Whomp whomp.

>>1737004
We could call for a new vote. I think we have done that before.

>>1735450
Also i change my vote from
>>1736247 , to
>have lorelei train her.

>>1736985

Supporting.

>>1735450
>>1736200
>>1736985
Changing my previous vote to this as well.

>>1735450

Changing >>1736147 (I was at work)
to >>1736985

>>1735835
I'll support a re-vote.

Honestly I saw Mono getting trained by Lorelei as kind of >>1736985 anyways.

Creating traps, walls to hide behind, muting or amplifying sounds, doors that connect to other places.

I'm still not sure what her powerset is but the whole "can't move while using her power" seems pretty limiting to a direct role.

>>1735450
Actually just chanel my vote outright to supporting >>1736985

Honestly given where we live she might actually be more useful making stuff in the Intersection then going out on missions.

Imagine the experiments you could do, or the things you could make, in unreal environments. I assume the changed or created objects would still be altered when the surrounding conditions reassert themselves.

Like how manufacturing in space allows for different atomic alignment in smelting and shit

>>1735450
changing >>1736742
to this: >>1736985

...huh. wasn't expecting this when I woke up.

For everyone that wants >>1736985 Lorelei would still be your best bet in the short term, but I'll work the option into the results and you'll be able to pick a trainer later, with the cost coming out of your HQ budget, if you're alright with that.

Gotta make up a whole new skill list for this...

>>1737034
Also, I never said she couldn't move, I just said she has to maintain concentration.

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>>1737059
> with the cost coming out of your HQ budget

Things I am fine with, right here.

Also Owlias face when she realizes that she can warp reality for experiments

>>1737045
>creating altered environments for experiments and production
Seems pretty redundant when the tech and resources to that already are available on the open market, with customer reviews and warranties already included.

>>1736985
She still needs to be good enough to handle solo jobs, though. We can't afford an Outgoer who only takes jobs with another except for the easiest of milk runs.

>>1737059
Are there items and equipment that would help Mono with concentrating or sustaining her illusions? Like neural bioware, brain symbiote, or neural headband that could let her carry on parallel thought processes to go along with a throat modification to sing two songs/illusions at once? Or a magic item that can keep an illusion running once she starts one so that she can start to sing another?

Maybe even just a throwable holo-emitter like from Total Recall (the old one with Schwarzenegger, Escape from L.A., and XCOM 2's Mimic Beacon.

>>1737135
damn dude, hold your horses

>>1737093
There is a distinct advantage to do things "in house" than to do them by buying stuff from external vendors. That is if we can actually make mono capable of using her powers here; the intersection nullifyes magical powers apparently.


>>1737135
Owlia and cylica could help us with that. But after we get them the lab

>>1737059
Is Mono going to be restricted in how much she uses her magic by a mana stat like Miranda, Izumi, and Lorelei?

>>1737158
I think she is more restricted by the air capacity her lungs can hold, rather than mana.

>>1737093
Depends on how good they are at it. It's not like the Intersection has one of everything also. It's probably a small market.

She could even be contracted out to those companies if they exist.

>>1737176
So her magic doesn't use mana? She won't suffer mana burnout if she keeps her illusions going?

>>1737186
>It's not like the Intersection has one of everything also.
It seems like it does, however, with the weapons and equipment we saw on sale.

>>1737187
*Shrug*
Judging from the crossover, they werent tired after the performances and they could rehearse the shows. Taking a guess, i think mono has a different magic mechanic.

“...Hello? Hello? Miranda, are you there?” With a jolt, you shake out of your stupor. Izumi’s looking at you oddly, having just been waving her hand in front of your face, and Lorelei’s just giggling a bit. Mono just looks confused.

“...sorry, got lost in my head for a minute. Lot going on right now.” you shake off. They seem to be mollified by that, at least. “Anyway, Lorelei, I want you to work with Mono for the majority of the next few days-”

“Nice!” Lorelei smirks as she looks towards Mono. “Don’t worry, I’ll get you the full rundown.”

“-buuuut, I got an idea. I’m thinking maybe seeing about getting someone that can really work with her illusion skills.” You quickly turn to Lorelei before she can complain. “You’re good, Lori, don’t get me wrong, but I’m not sure if you’ve got a whole lot of experience with people that can sing to warp reality. I figure we want someone that can really nurture that.”

“What?! No way, I KNOW I can te-” Abruptly, Lorelei freezes in place, quickly closing her mouth. She looks off to the side, as though considering something, before letting loose a tiny snort and finally nodding. “...yeah, okay, sure. Anyway!” She turns back to Mono. “You’re coming with me, first thing tomorrow! We’re gonna get you set straight!”

Izumi just sighs, a wry smile on her face. “She’ll either end up amazing or a terror.”

You just shrug. “You say that like both isn’t possible.”

---------------

Later on, you’re going through your FutureSight, looking through possible additions to your base via Ulti-struct. There’s a decent number of options, but most seem to be locked behind basic addons.

cont.

>>1737247
>Current Finances: 150 Large Motes

>Sleeping Quarters: A precisely environmentally controlled sleeping environment, this modularly expandable room can allow employees to rest comfortably. Starts with 8 beds. Cost: 80 Large Motes (Anyone can sleep here; HQ acts as their home/common area.)

>Physical Combat Training Area: Comes with Sandbags, weights, and a wide variety of practice dummies with realistic deformation, impact area lightup, and ‘easy’ joint removal for limb severing practice! Allows safe and secure practice of killer techniques! Cost: 130 Large Motes. (Adds to rolls for physical attacks for two missions.)
>Available Additions: Sparring Ring, AI Dummies
>Available Expansions: Interior Melee Obstacle Course

>Ranged Combat Training Area: Comes with individual ranges for up to 3 people, as well as targets! Practice your amazing aim and sharpshooting techniques here! (weaponry not included.) Cost: 150 Large Motes (Adds to rolls for ranged attacks for two missions.)
>Available Additions: Extra Ranges, Hardended Targets
>Available Expansions: MOUT Course

>Meditation Room: Allows a focusing of the mind, body and spirit in a soundproof, perfectly aligned, specially crafted room! Cost: 95 Large Motes (Allows for reduced mana usage for two missions, extra social options.)

>Laboratory Area- Basic: A sealed off, pristine laboratory cleanroom area for experimentation. Comes with special security lockers, two expandible cleanroom suits, and basic scientific supplies such as a microscopic area, test tube racks, and large all-purpose analyzer. Cost: 200 Motes. (With scientist/alchemist/engineer, can craft unique devices or potions over time.)
>Available Additions: Custom Ordered
>Available Expansions: Containment Room, Blank Room, Second Laboratory

(This is all also in a pastebin: https://pastebin.com/TCtu0QfZ)

>>1737250
>Physical Combat Training Area

>>1737250
Well. Shit.

I vote for the

>physical combat area

We can still train our ranged weapons on the public training grounds, we really dont need the sleeping grounds and the lab is way above our cash reserves, and if we pool our (read miranda's) cash, i think we will have only ile 1 or 2 motes left

>>1737250
BUY
>Meditation Room: 95 Large Motes
Reduced mana usage is the tits

Next I'm thinking the Laboratory, that Containment room expansion sounds like business.

Handler how many Large Motes in spending money does the team have all together?

>>1737268
>>1737272
With 11k Mana base pool + crystals and the condenser and reduced mana usage we won't even need to roll physical or ranged combat.

>>1737273
Ehhh, the reduced mana sounds nice, but we really dont need it. We did pretty fine in the westworld and we now have the mana capacitor

>>1737250
>Meditation Room
The decreased mana costs is nice, but the expanded social options is nicer.

>>1737276
But we usually jump into melee range after opening with a magic salvo whenever we fight. At the very least for us and izumi, this is way better than the other options.

>>1737277
Yeah, I'm all about making our main strength more advantageous. Plus the social bit sounds good to me

Handler, which one of these rooms will let us work on new magic techniques? We began levelling up Flux Wave I think? Man I can't remember.

>>1737277
And we were nearly tapped out in Mageria and we came close to low levels of mana in our last mission.
We need more mana for more lucrative missions.

>>1737287
After we buff ourselves with shock touch and energy channel. We do it to conserve mana, with more mana to work with we got a lot more option and reason to just blast shit to bits.

>>1737295
We even tried to see if we could buy our own mana engine thing that was on our ship.

>>1737295
We have the capacitor for that reason, and is WAY cheaper than the room. And altough the social options sound nice, for social options we can go and eat outside with the other girls or something

>>1737289
>which one of these rooms will let us work on new magic techniques?

Meditation Room can help you out there to an extent.

You can also get a later Addition for the Sparring Ring that makes it walled-in and able to stand up to massive damage for testing full-power attacks.

>>1737302
I get what you mean, but first we should see if the mana reduction bonus is more powerful than the ammount of mana the capacitor can refil. Because of we get a 10% reduction, it really isnt worth it( this is just factoring miranda. If we count the other girls, the bonus get multiplied, but so does the bonus for the other rooms)

>>1737307
The mana condenser wasn't enough. We needed the mana reactor of a carrier to get the levels of mana regeneration we needed.
And the rate of mana regeneration, even with the condenser, is still limited by the ambient mana of the world we go to.
Having it is simply a safety buffer in case something goes majorly wrong, like the first battle we took part in on the Dynamics job.

>>1737318
Your Training area could give us a measly +1 too you know, this is a stupid argument until we have hard numbers.

>>1737316
Are the expanded social options of the Meditation Room simple social options when between the members of Silver Eye, or is it concerning social options on jobs?

>>1737320
In that case, going with the room is better because it allows us to depends less on magic.
>>1737323
i dont know from where you get that it gives a +1, but i agree, its silly unless we get hard data

>>1737329
On the job, generally.

And if you need hard data, what I have in my notes is:

Meditation Room: 20% mana reduction.
Training Rooms: +2 to rolls. (Would increase with additions/expansions.)

Also, I just want to say.

I've been looking forward to add a little crunchiness to this quest for a minute. Hope it works out. I'm not gonna get TOO numerical, but this bit is something that's been percolating for a while.

>>1737334
Going melee-only is fine if we're in a world where the local threats are weak enough that we can fight without using magic, but we don't have many options for ranged fighting unless we buy more guns.

>>1737351
I'm very much looking forward to having some crunch to this.
Our decisions can have more of a nuanced impact.

>>1737348
20% is vastly superior to a +2, especially for a single purchase.

The odds of rolling 1 or 2 below the DC is abysmal compared to shaving 800 MP off of the nebula buster and double tap flux wave.

Definitely not budging on my vote for meditation room and as a habitual savescummer to explore dialogue options I simply can't pass up on extra social options.

Also we're tied. I'll give it about 10 more minutes, then I'll flip for it.

>>1737250
due to >>1737348
swithing from >>1737268
to Meditation Room

>>1737362
> Meditation room

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Meditation Room it is!

Here is where it'll be unless anyone has any particular suggestions on location.

Writing!

>>1737361
Extra dialogue options is what got me, as well.

Then again I'm the kind of player whose philosophy is also always "Explosives solve most problems, and for the ones they don't there's always fire" so you know.

Traps and such are always a good investment.

>>1737386
Why are the lockers and the bathroom/shower on opposite ends? That's weird.

>>1737392
They weren't clothing lockers, they were arms/weapons/gear lockers. Sorry.

>>1737396
That makes sense then.

>>1737247
>>1737250
>>1737282
>>1737273
>>1737379
After some consideration, you decide on the Meditation Room. It’ll likely come in handy in more ways than one, considering Lorelei’s own issues, Mono’s recklessness, and Izumi...well, she’d probably just appreciate it. A quick exchange of finances later, and you’re promised that someone will be in to talk to you about your new room setup in a day or so’s time.

>HQ budget: 55 Motes.

The next couple of days is you talking with Ulti-struct construction- it’ll take a bit to get the room set up, but fortunately since it’s only a meditation room, it shouldn’t take but a day or so to build, largely due to the precision measurements that need to be taken. The rest of the time is spent helping Mono and Lorelei out- as expected, Lorelei’s rather enjoyed taking Mono under her wing for now, and she’s apparently been teaching the newbie about all the stuff that’ll be on the test, along with basic misdirection techniques and how to step quietly as you go about your days. She’s fine with holding guns mostly, although her general deficiencies still remain. Her swordplay movement yet needs work- you step in when needed, as Izumi’s catching up on hours at the library, and do your best to instruct her. Owlia and Cylica even step around a few times; Owlia’s still looking forward to a new laboratory, and Cylica mostly stands by and-

“If we were still in Ferrosia, you wouldn’t even make ship guard!” Say stuff like that. When it started up, you were apt to tell her to zip it, before Lorelei had an idea- let her keep smack-talking and see how Mono dealt with goading. You weren’t a fan of it at the time, but you had to agree now it’s useful.

By the end of the three days, the Meditation Room is built- it’s not a soft pink, thank goodness, but rather a gentle off-white with a simple, soft, clear blue glow to it. Really, just stepping into it started calming you down. Seems like Ulti-struct really know their stuff…

Before you know it, however, it’s time for Mono’s testing. It’s only been a scant, if intense and thorough three days, and you’re a bit concerned, but Mono looks confident enough. Hopefully she’s a quick enough learner…

“Room 10B, Miss Mono. Expected test time is six hours.” Was this a different secretary? Probably. This one reminded you of a bird.

“Six hours?!” Yup, sounds about right.

“Enforcer testing is thorough. Good luck.”

>Roll 1d20 + 3, Best of three.

Rolled 8 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>1737539

Rolled 3 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>1737539

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>1737539

Rolled 5 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>1737539

Rolled 8 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>1737539
forgot the modifier

Well... so much for all of that. I guess Mono is a bottom feeder from now on

>>1737570
This counts. I'm not particularly fussed about missing that.

>>1737586
Just be glad she didn't fail the test.

>>1737539
>>1737544
>>1737558
>>1737570
“Let’s hope she doesn’t humiliate herself in there,” Cylica says foppishly. Owlia just kinda nudges her in the side, but says nothing in particular.

“You two got it easy,” Izumi notes casually. “Courier testing, from what you told me and what I’ve heard, is largely just written stuff along with a few speech examples, right?”

“That was about the size of it- that and some very strange debates.” Cylica confirms. “Those took the longest, as we had to convince an example individual if we wanted to buy and sell a particular object or not, and why we did or did not.”

“Enforcer testing isn’t anything like that.” Lorelei remarks. “You’re probably not getting out without a bruise or two unless you’re ridiculously good.”

“Hm.” Cylica frowns. “Understandable, if...slightly intimidating.” She looks at you with a curious expression. “I take it regardless of what rank she achieves, she’ll be going out on a mission quite soon, correct?”

“It’d be smart,” Izumi agrees. “Better to get her into things as soon as possible. Frankly, we should probably all have something lined up.”

“Probably would be better if she had someone with her on her first gig,” Lorelei opines. “Certainly wouldn’t say no to another partner job!”

Hm. Checking your FutureSight’s job listings, you’re not surprised to see a few more jobs ready- several requesting multiple individuals. Up to you if you want to take such a job, though- those are always the rough ones…

>Solo Job
>Multi-Person Job

>>1737693
>multi person job.

Maybe someting like our first mission with the flower girls, that way mono can learn the ropes and if things get serious we can step in.

>>1737693
>Multi-Person Job
We are all about the rough life

>>1737693
>>Multi-Person Job

>>1737693
>Multi-Person Job
Preferably one with a good chance of being back stabbed by the client so that we can show Mono to always be careful and how the Intersection treats people who try to cheat the Dealmakers of their due.

Time for the Job list! Writing!

>>1737764
Hey handler, how many years (decades) have we been working with sal?
Also, could we have some snippets of miranda after arriving to the intersection for the first time?

>>1737789
Pretty sure it's 80 years given that Miranda is over 90 and was in her late teens when she arrived.

>>1737693
>>1737704
>>1737716
>>1737718
>>1737759
Job Listings:

>Recommended Outgoers: 4
>Hunter-Killer Unit Request: Powerful individuals needed to Locate and Assassinate a high value and dangerous target. Target has caused significant distress and hardship to heroic assets, high levels of destruction. Risk of depletion of local special assets deemed too high. Risk of target causing immeasurable collateral damage if left unchecked deemed too high. All available options open.
>No Riders Purchased
>Total Offered Payment: 80 Large Motes

>Recommended Outgoers: 3
>Rebellion Repel: Strong, dangerous individuals are needed. I have been forced into this damned corner by these fool so-called ‘heroes’ that wish for me to surrender what is mine by right. I call upon the beings in the shadow of shadows, and am willing to bargain my remaining lucre and valuables for righteous retribution.
>Riders Added: Total Scouring
>Total Offered Payment: 100 Large Motes

>Recommended Outgoers: 5
>Warrior Team Desperately Needed: We’re at our wits’ end. Even our strongest champions in our best SHELL units couldn’t stop the menace that calls itself ‘Pax’ and its followers. I’m unsure if this desperate prayer will work, but we’re willing to sacrifice anything so that we might survive just a bit longer.
>No Riders Purchased
>Total Offered Payment: 85 Large Motes

>Recommended Outgoers: 4
>Guiding Lights: This strange miasma has choked out our entire city! We’re blocked off, and even our best soldiers and heroes are falling prey to its sickness. We don’t know what’s going on or why it’s happening, and no one can seem to survive it. We...everyone will be dead, and my wealth useless- save for this desperate plea. We need help. Help to find the source of this strange mist, and stop it!
>Riders Added: Minimum Collateral Damage/After-Action Restoration
>Total Offered Payment: 90 Large Motes

>Recommended Outgoers: 5
>Secret Team Replacement! We’re in a serious, serious bind. A number of our heroes that we’d planned on having perform in the National Hero Tournament have gone missing, and with no word of them...we need a group that can keep things quiet to both substitute for them during the tournament, and find out just where they all went!
>Riders Added: Minimum Collateral Damage/Binding Narrative
>Total Offered Payment: 75 Large Motes

>>1737831
Before we choose, can the FutureSight provide us with more information about local conditions, such as tech level and mana density?

>>1737831
I would like Rebellion Repel, Warrior Team Desperately Needed, or Guiding Lights.

>>1737831
>Hunter-Killer Unit Request:

>>1737831
>Hunter killer team
It sounds nice and we can bring the whole team (and mono) and the payout seems nice. It also has no moral repercucions like rebellion repell.

>>1737831
>Warrior Team

>>1737880
Why would moral repercussions be a negative? In fact, we should be looking for a job where we're the 'bad guys' so that Mono gets used to the contracts we take as soon as possible.

>>1737831
> Recommended Outgoers: 5
>Secret Team Replacement! We’re in a serious, serious bind. A number of our heroes that we’d planned on having perform in the National Hero Tournament have gone missing, and with no word of them...we need a group that can keep things quiet to both substitute for them during the tournament, and find out just where they all went!
>Riders Added: Minimum Collateral Damage/Binding Narrative
>Total Offered Payment: 75 Large Motes

I don't want to start Mono or take Lori on an evil mission, or one that could be too stressful right now. Yeah, it's the lowest paid but it should be quick work that plays to both their strengths and can build them up a bit.

PRAISE THE SUN! JOLLY CO-OPERATION!

Also now that we're management team building exercises appeal to me.

>>1737904

Im not worried about mono. Im worried about izumi and her morals. Also the hero type of person have a higher tolerance for "incidents", and mono, being a total rookie, will have some of those.

>>1737916
Whe dont have the manpower to pull it off. We would have to get someone from another agency, because owlia and cylica are couriers, not enforcers.

Letting this one ride for 10 more minutes for discussion purposes. Also:

>>1737842

1: General Tech Level: 21st Century. / Mana Density: Moderate. / Extra Notes: This world has several organizations of super-heroes, many of which are directly employed by their government. Heroes are known and have special classes they can attend.

2: General Tech Level: Middle Ages. / Mana Density: High. / Extra Notes: This world has been scarred by continuous war from two long-lasting factions on different continents.

3: General Tech Level: 25st Century. / Mana Density: Moderate-Low. / Extra Notes: The galaxy this is in involves several factions each trying to survive against a galatic onslaught of strange, glowing robo-insectoid creatures.

4: General Tech Level: 21st Century. / Mana Density: High. / Extra Notes: This world is relatively plain- as typical, it tends to have an 'epicenter' where events happen more often than around the rest of the world.

5: General Tech Level: 21st Century. / Mana Density: Moderate-High. / Extra Notes: Heroes are more for entertainment here than real world saving- most have sold out to various corporations and businesses, and many 'villains' are largely just playing a part.

Hope that helps.

>>1737961
>>1737926
Changing to warrior team since we don't have the staff for Secret Team

>>1737831
I'd love to see the Rebellion Repel mission, but I have no idea what Mono is like sooo...

>Hunter-Killer Unit Request

That's 3 for Warrior Team and 3 for HK request.

>Hunter-Killer Unit Request

>>1737981
We neither have the manpower for that mission.
>>1737991
If warrior team wins, would we have to hire an extra agent from the outside? Or its just gonna be harder because we lack one guy?

>>1737998
I completely missed the concern earlier. I wouldn't have have put it on there if you couldn't do it. Since they'd be escorted by a Enforcer, Owlia or Cylica would be clear to join the mission. The stuff's just things they can't do THEMSELVES.

Anyway, LOCKED for Hunter-Killer Unit Request.

Writing!

>>1738008
Ohhh. That makes a lot of sense

>>1738016
Hope everyone is ready to be treated as the expendable migrant workers.

>>1738024
What. Why?

>>1738008
> Since they'd be escorted by a Enforcer, Owlia or Cylica would be clear to join the mission. The stuff's just things they can't do THEMSELVES.

>>1738016
You made me miss out on getting Cylica forced to perform on stage.

Which she robably would be good at.

>>1738024
Nah. We're expensive specialist sub-contractors.

>>1738031
Because we're being hired to do a job considered too dangerous for their local kids, so they want to throw some outsiders at the problem to either take care of it or weaken it enough for the locals to finish it off.

>>1738047
Well we can always sell them on a rider upgrade if they piss us off.

All we have to do is threaten to be more destructive than whatever it is we're fighting.

>>1738047
Errr... that the whole idea of being a mercenary. All of our jobs work under that premise.

Okay, normally I'd ask this 'in-character' but I'm too worried I'm misinterpreting.

Are you planning on taking Owlia and Cylica as well?

>>1738073
For the hunter killer gig i was thinking in miranda, lorelei, izumi and mono.

>>1738073
no

>>1738073
I'd give the okay to it.

>>1738073
Only if they have nothing else to do.

>>1738073
No.

>>1738071
How mercs are treated depends on local conditions. Unless the local heroes have been brutally crushed by the things we're hunting, like in Warrior Team, they'll more likely than not see us as taking their jobs/glory. Their line managers will be looking to keep this project as cheap as possible.

Just checking. Last update, then gotta get going. Will try to resume later tonight.

>>1738084
Not our problem. If they argue, we can deal with it.

>>1738098
Our company motto should be "Fuck you pay me".

>>1737831
Hm… “What about this one?” you ask, pointing out the Hunter-Killer Unit Request. The gathered look over it.

“Hmmm...sounds juicy enough!” Lorelei nods in approval.

Izumi has a more clinical look on her face about it. “Seems like a worthwhile mission. Especially if that target’s causing that much trouble for the locals. I could support a mission like that, I believe.”

“It’ll take a while before she gets outta there,” you note. “Anyone got any shopping to do?”

“Depends,” Lorelei notes. “I’m guessing I’m gonna be the hunter part of the equation, so I might wanna go pick up some stuff.”

“I’m going to probably get my armament bag ready- it seems like this area will be a densely urban operation, so I’ll have to dress for the part. I’ll bring something for Mono too, just to be safe.”


“Sounds good to me,” you agree. It’s then you notice Owlia and Cylica standing off to the side, watching you with mild interest. As they see you looking at them, they shrug. You’re not too inclined on doing something like bringing them along on something like this- they’re couriers for a reason.

“Alright, let’s go get ourselves set up. We’ll be leaving after Mono’s recovered a bit.” They nod, and everyone disperses for the time being.
---------------

A few hours later, you’re back- you’re kind of surprised to see Mono out and finished, apparently. Still had another 30 minutes to go. “Hey!” She seems rather excited, at least, as she bounds up to you. “I passed! I passed!”

Fantastic. “What’s your rank?” She proudly shows off a card with a beaming smile. ‘Mono, Enforcer, Rank…

“Rank C. Nice.” You’re surprised she pulled that out.

“Assessment thing said I barely passed- was impressed with my singin’ n’ siren stuff. Used it once to fool my target into thinking he was in a cabaret, but he wasn’t. Got ‘im pretty easily after that! So that helped out!” Well well, not too shabby. She’s got a few bruises, as you expected, some welts, but she seems alright for the most part.

“Good to know, kid. Because we got a job lined up for you.” You note. “And the rest of us.”
Mono’s beaming look is pretty amusing. Partially because you know full well it’s gonna get wiped off the next day. “Let’s get you healed up and prepped for your first job.”

“Bring it on!” Well, they will most likely.
------------
>When I get back- wardrobe! And loadout!

Okay so this is going to sound a bit counterproductive, but I think we should try to pump plainness. Element of surprise right up until we get on top of the guy.

>>1738370

As in plainess B?
Because we might need to sell the look of someone powerful, so that the buyer believes we can do the job.

>>1738423
Might could work.

>>1738423
>Because we might need to sell the look of someone powerful
Or we could just beat on their special assets for a while.

File: 20170804_013915-1.jpg (593 KB, 1152x1152)

593 KB JPG

Made a little 'randa.

>>1738423
Selling the look of someone powerful would be a low plainness, not a high one. And we've been warned in the past that breaking expectations will have unforeseen consequences.

>>1738423
>>1738370

Yeah. Why do you want to do this exactly?

I definitely say tone down the Otherworldly, but I think we should pump hotheaded and maybe humor so we can fill our role as Ravager while Lori and Mono do their jobs as spies and diplomats.

>>1739404
So Lori/Mono are the Hunters, us and Izumi the Killers? Makes sense I guess. Easier on the newbies.

>>1739762
Well, we dont really need to fit any narrative. I think that as long as one of us looks dangerous enough, it will be fine. After all, we dont even know what are we hunting.

Greetings!

>>1739978
Do we lend our outfits to Mono or we gotta buy a wardrobe for her?

>>1739985
You can do either.

>>1739978
Hullo!

>>1738131
The rest of the day is spent...well, resting, really. The next day, the girls have gotten themselves settled up- Izumi’s got on what seems to be some sort of suited affair- three piece suit style, and she looks more like she’s ready for a night on the town than anything else. Lorelei’s done up in what seems to be a largely unassuming getup, a simple orange skirt, but a trendy if casual blouse/jacket combination- and in her black glasses.

“So what’s all this again?” Mono asks. “Supposed to be like doing makeup and costuming, right?”

You nod. “Pretty much. You’d be surprised at how properly treated clothing can evoke a desired emotional reaction in most individuals. It’s a pretty nice shortcut to have if you want to handle a job in a certain way.”

“Huh...well, I don’t have any real spare money ta get anythin’...” Mono shrugs.

“That’s fine; we’ll figure something out,” you promise. And with that you bring up the store listings…

>There's a LOT you can buy, so I'm going to have to request you take a look at the pastebin here: https://pastebin.com/R263U7Hp

And as a reminder, here's what you have already:

-------
STORAGE
--------

Clothes:
-------
Third Eye Brooch (Otherworldly +3 / Hothead -3)
Noble's Cape (Intimidation +2 / Plainness -2)
Glowing Headband (Otherworldly +1 / Hothead -2)
Amateur's Necklace
Clear Sunglasses (Plainness +2 / Intimidation -2)
Red Striped Sneakers (Hothead +1 / Otherworldy -1)
A cool set of street sneakers with a kickin' red stripe. Impress your friends and look good at whatever sport you're into!
-------

Weapons:
---------
*Baron's Rapier
*Flamebringer Sword
*’Lorenzo’s Own’ Extreme Mana Condenser (+1000 Mana)
*’Highball’ Anti-Vehicle Rocket Launcher
-A manual guidance only rocket launcher. Its explosive yield is rather impressive, and if anyone else has a Highball brand device, such as the Highball Seeker Mines, or another launcher, it’s standardized laser targeting system allows ‘double duty’ of sorts,
allowing someone else to grab control of a launched rocket or other Highball device should an adjustment need to be made on the
fly.
-Current Ammo: 32 Rockets

’Moleworm’ Proximity Mines
-These mines are small, and capable of attaching to floors, walls, and the ceiling. Once locked in place, they can be primed to only detonate once someone gets within a specific radius- up to 10 meters away. Obviously, there’s a bit of a grace period when priming them.
-Available Mines: 10

---------

Other:
------
*Large 5-Crystal Pack (250 Mana * 5)
*Bag of Holding
*Murmur Stones
-These are simple, oval, cup looking rocks that fit in the palm of your hand, but are pair-bonded to each other. You talk by infusing mana into them actively, and ‘answer’ by doing the same when you feel it vibrating. You can’t help but imagine them as magical versions of a comm headset. They come in pairs, and work over 800 miles at last test- although she warns they can be fragile, and reception has a delay depending on the distance- max distance has a 5 second delay. What’s more, if one is broken, they’re both broken.
*’Real Divinity’ Respirator.
- A respirator that requires an influx of mana, but can allow you to breathe in anything short of vacuum.

>>1740013
Umm, Handler, how much money we have? I cant seem to findbit on the pastebins

>>1740065
80.30 Motes. Sorry!

>>1740019
> buy militant power armor and powershell legs

> also wear the clear sunglases

I'm edging towards buying the militant power armor and power shell legs, so we have that high tech bounty hunter look, and then either wear the sunglasses (so we can look like a badass 80's bounty hunter) or wear the amateur necklace; that way we dont look THAT agressive(i think our intimidation should be at an A at this point).

Or we could finish the set and buy the ai helmet.... i think that would give us the bonus that the lore sections of the clothes imply, but i'm not sure how it would affects us on the real world if we try to interact with people... i think we might end up looking like doomguy or samus or master chief. We might need to get something for the hands and/or the back so we dont look so menacing.

>>1740013
Can we lend stuff we're not using to Mono? If so then I say give her the Noble Cape and whichever sword we don't use.

>>1740158
As I said earlier, yeah. There was going to be a call for it, but you can go ahead and vote for what to loan her now if you like.