>>1818809
God dammit can't believe i lost a section.

>>1818858

If you missed something, everything is archived.

>>1818862
Reading everything at this exact moment Story-T

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fuck trains nigga

>>1818871

Have fun man.

>>1818872

New Favored Enemy: Trains

>>1818809
Dismantling caboose for parts to make our own transport/Metal Gear when?

>>1818882

Unfortunately, John's last name isn't 'Macgyver'.

>>1818872

... is it bad that I'm now giggling to myself over the fact that in a land forsaken by the gods and full of monstrosities and crime organizations that have their own territories I've managed to make my players hate trains out of everything?

>>1818920
That just proves how good of a dm you are. Also man we went full snake on that train. That is until the last part. onder

>>1818920
Qm by any chance could you do an omake/reaction from creeps mercenary group watching our escape from surveillance footage

>>1818957
oooh, i second this

>>1818941

And to think that I was originally just going to send you all straight to Shirahoro...

>>1818957

I can say it now that it's over: there were never any cameras. It was the guards keeping an eye on your party and relaying that information to them. Also, that would be spoilers on whether or not they actually ended up doing the job.

I could, however, do some bits on what might have happened had you decided to incap Creep and Bishop before the 9 am kidnapping attempt and the resulting extended boss fight between you versus Rider and Dozer. That was going to be such a clusterfuck; you all really dodged a tough fight.

>>1818970
>you all really dodged a tough fight.

Still want to see Creep and Bishop's reaction to the aftermath from our group escaping the train.

>>1818920
Poor Train, it's not its fault that it's being owned by mafia.

I'm awake and I'm laughing.

so lets recap, we are an artificer who has been tainted by the blight, met two friends, is going to meet some old illegal friends, has voices in our heads asking for different mechanical marvels. and we hate trains.

storyteller: you sir are fucking amazing. if you can keep up the content. you will be the next quest drone, or the next grave. just without the civ management

>>1819386
Hell be the next Soma. Except he won't abandon us.

Right, StoryT?

>>1819084

Maybe I'll have that come up the next time you meet them. For now, again, that's spoilers.

>>1819386

You're forgetting the four separate factions that have set up in john's head but other than that that's pretty much it.

>>1819502

I'll try not to abandon you all.

I've got a few ideas for other quests in the future, so we won't be stopping when Artificer Quest inevitably ends.

Anyone alive right now? I've found myself with a two hour block of free time because one of my classes isn't meeting today and I could start up part 7.

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>>1819706
at your leisure, OP

by the way, since we'll be avoiding trains in foreseeable future, what are airships like in this setting?

If there are any, can they traverse the blight afflicted terrain?

>>1819717

I've been internally debating on whether or not to have airships in the setting.

...

Actually, now that I think about it, I've got an idea that'll help tie in something I haven't gotten around to really addressing.

Won't happen for a while (probably 2-3 story arcs from now) but it's something to look forwards to. Thanks Anon.

>>1819718
How does blight spread?
With wind or something else?

>>1819719

Blight, on it's own, is a kind of thick, syrupy ichor. You should be thanking your lucky stars that it can't travel in the air, because there wouldn't be a world for you guys to travel around in at this point.

It spreads by more or less building up enough biomass and then Zerg rushing the nearest bit of civilization. However, Blight has been known to act erratically in certain cases...

>>1818809

[ARTIFICER QUEST PART 7 START]

Sierra looks at you like you're completely mad. Considering you just proclaimed your hatred of trains to her, you can't exactly blame her.

"Oh, c'mon. I just spent the last 13 hours preparing to have to fight my way through two separate teams of mercenaries to try to make sure we wouldn't all die horribly," Your slightly mad giggle her ruins the serious attitude you had running here, "I'm just glad the pressure is off me for a bit now".

"That's great and all John," At the very least, she's looking less worried about your sanity, "But you're gonna get sick if you just stand out in the rain all morning".

Despite the fact that your Cloak is keeping your entirely dry, you still return to the mostly dry interior of the Caboose. You note a few bullet holes here and there, but for the most part everything is intact.

Leaving your cloak hanging up to dry and taking off the helmet to let your head breath, you consider your options.

Now what?
> Take a nap here until sunrise
> Try to find some shelter elsewhere
> Try to contact Rider
> Other

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>>1819721
So it tends to spread specifically towards settlements of sapient beings? Interesting...

It could be attracted to their souls/thought patterns/magic

or, if it's only spreading towards advanced settlements, towards magic or magical engineering.

or it's intelligent enough and has appropriate sensory capacities, to infer existence of a valid target through other means.

>>1819724
How many hours to sunrise?

>>1819724
> Take a nap here until sunrise

>>1819724
>Look around
are there any features in the landscape that would hint at

Also how often are trains going on this line? We might want to put some effort into removing the caboose from tracks, even if it meant toppling it over.

I suppose we can take advantage of the car to rest up before we get on the way. The two "guards" we've disposed of should be far enough to not cause trouble, I think...

>>1819729

It's just after 4 am at this point, so 2 hrs max.

>>1819724
> Take a nap here until sunrise

>>1819735
>that would hint at
potential existence of a suitable shelter or camping spot.

Like, I don't know... brook, copse, rock formation... smoke plume (inb4 bandits or marauders of some sort)...

>>1819727

I guess you'll just have to find out.

>>1819733
>>1819737
>>1819739
>>1819735

Nap time everyone, We'll take first watch.

Writin'

>>1819724

"You two can go back to sleep, I'll stay up and take a look around the area".

"Alright," Sierra looks like she wants to argue with you, but Goo Hwi is already settling down onto one of the benches, "When are you planning on sleeping?"

You grab your cloak and throw it over yourself once more, "I already slept enough for tonight; I've been up since 3"

"Don't wander too far," is the last bit of advice Sierra gives you before she turns in.

You jump back into the elements once more, and begin looking around this cold, dark night.

> Roll me three 1d100+5's please

File: 1387058243237.gif (1.89 MB, 800x450)

1.89 MB GIF

Rolled 7 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>1819744

Rolled 8 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>1819744

Rolled 82 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>1819744

>>1819756

87, Good Success. Let's see what you see.

Writin'

>>1819744

It's dark and raining out, so your vision is pretty far into the 'heavily obscured' territory. Even still, you manage to get a decent enough look around.

You're still in the low plains of the Badlands, maybe only a day and a half from Shirahoro at this point. There might be other towns you could visit, but you don't remember any and you don't see any obvious signs of one.

Eventually, the storm finally passes and, as the sun begins to come over the horizon, you find the train tracks again to easily make your way back to the Caboose.

There's still a chill in the air, a low mist hangs over the land, and it still smells like rain out, but the burning in your back slowly fades away. The storm has passed, taking the danger with it perhaps, but now you have new worries.

Mainly how you're going to deal with the potential shitstorm with the Genovese if you go to Shirahoro. You never used their name, so that's good. Maybe.

A much less complicated, and more current, problem is what you're going to do with the Caboose. As much as you don't care for the Gambinos, causing an entire train to crash because of your chosen escape route is just in bad taste. You did tell Naofumi about it and as incompetent with Magitech as he is you get the feeling that he'll probably send out a team to retrieve it before he leaves Shirahoro.

Making your way back to errant train car, you've got a decision to make. Checking your gauntlet, it's only 5:30 at this point. You were out for a while, but the sun isn't entirely up yet.

Now what?
> Grab some sleep while you can
> Shake Sierra and Goo Hwi awake, it's time to go

>>1819773
>Grab some sleep while you can
in relative comfort

>>1819773
>Grab some sleep while you can
Wake Goo Hwi up so he can keep watch though.

>>1819773
> Grab some sleep while you can

>>1819773
> Grab some sleep while you can

>>1819776
>>1819780
>>1819781
>>1819783

Grab some shut eye, kick Goo Hwi awake.

Writin'

>>1819773

Climbing back up, you find Sierra and Goo Hwi asleep, the latter better than the former.

Shaking at much of the water off it as you can, you drape your heavy cloak over Sierra. She needs it more than you do currently.

Walking over to Goo Hwi, you shake his shoulder hard. There's a moment where you almost have a heart attack when his hand grabs your outstretched wrist.

"Ah... John" His iron grip loosens, and you thank your lucky stars he didn't do anything more drastic, "You're back".

"Yeah, I am. I'm gonna sleep for a bit. Wake me up in a half hour or so and we'll get on our way".

After finding a comfortable way to sleep while wearing armor, you drift off into a brief, but blessedly empty sleep.

You wake up on your own, seemingly just before Goo Hwi was going to.

Sierra is groggily coming to as you push yourself to your feet.

The morning is here.
> Talk to Sierra
> Talk to Goo Hwi
> Talk to both of them
> Head out
> Other

>>1819801
>Talk to both of them

Does either one of them know geography of the place?
Ask for general input.
Discuss possibility who to offer the evidence to. Maybe this would be the time to talk about our past connection with Genovese

>>1819801
> Talk to Sierra

We have acted like a bit of a jerk. With fantastic reason, but still.

>>1819801
> Talk to both of them
What are our options now?

>>1819810
Yeah, apologise for all the rush. There was no good way of getting to them more neatly, but still.

>>1819808
>>1819811

Perhaps now is a good time to figure how things are going from here on forwards.

Writin'

>>1819801

"Good Morning you two," You let out a yawn and stretch, trying to get all the kinks out of your joints. Checking your Gauntlet, it's just after 6:30 am now.

You might have slept for just under an hour, but you're feeling a bit more human now. The nice morning sun doesn't hurt too.

Goo Hwi gives you quick response as he's collecting his belongings, while Sierra just groans out. She manages to make it upright and starts grabbing her things, absentmindedly clipping your cloak on.

Checking your things, you're on to looking over your Clockwork Rifle when she speaks up.

"Say," Meeting her gaze, she seems a bit more focused now, "I didn't really get the chance to ask before, but where exactly did you get all that stuff?"

Uhh...
> "I kinda 'stole' it, for a very loose definitely of 'stealing'"
> "Two kind gentlemen 'donated' it all to me"
> "Alright, alright, I beat the crap out of two guards when they tried to jump me"
> Other

>>1819863
> "Two kind gentlemen 'donated' it all to me"

Then when she give us her usual annoyed stare say.

> "Alright, alright, I beat the crap out of two guards when they tried to jump me"

>Write in: " Then i went to the workshop and upgraded it a little bit. Passed througth two different check points knocking out two or four guard. Oh by the way thanks for the taser idea (show her our gaunlet by activating the taser) but then they got lucky and one of the guard saw me and the rest you already know.

>>1819863
> "Alright, alright, I beat the crap out of two guards when they tried to jump me"

I mean, if you try to ice a guy then you automatically relinquish loot rights if he manages to beat you.

>>1819877
supporting this

>>1819863
>"Two kind gentlemen 'donated' it all to me"
>"Alright, alright, I beat the crap out of two guards when they tried to jump me"

>"Anyway, I can give you both long version of the story, but it boils down to finding that our job was a setup and we were sacrificial lambs hired to make it look credible... As soon as I knew for sure, I started looking for way to get us out. Especially when, ah... but listen to it yourself."

Play the recordings.

>>1819863
supporting
>>1819899

>>1819877
>>1819876
>>1819889
>>1819899
>>1819915

I suppose some explanation is in order...

Writin'

>>1819863

"Well..." You look off to the side thinking of what you're going to say, before a thin grin comes across your face, "You see, I was just walking along when these two kind gentlemen 'donated' it all to me".

Goo Hwi snorts in amusement at your wording. Sierra just raises an eyebrow.

"Alright, alright, I beat the crap out of two guards when they tried to jump me. If you fail to ice a guy while you've got the drop on him and you're outnumbering him, you deserve to have your shit looted..." You trail off there muttering to yourself, "Anyways, I imagine that you both want an actual explanation for what happened this night. I could give you the long version of the story, but it boils down to finding out that our job was a setup and we were sacrificial lambs hired to make the whole thing look credible".

You definitely have their attention now, "As soon as I knew for sure, I started looking for a way to get us out. Especially after, ah... here, you can listen for yourself".

Pulling up the recordings, you have them play in order.

The first one is from the merc's revised deal with Gambino. As such neither Goo Hwi nor Sierra are particularly impressed by it.

The second and third ones, that both go over your party's role in the set up, do give them some pause.

They're both silent and thoughtful at the evidence of the conspiracy you uncovered.

Maybe now might be a good time.
> Mention your past work with the Genovese and your intent to bring this evidence to them
> Mention your past work with the Genovese
> Don't mention it

>>1820010
>Mention your past work with the Genovese
"I came here to get away from exactly this kind of shit."

>>1820010
time to come clean

"some past friends of mine who helped save my ass from the blight, well they were that fat fucks rivals. so I'm sorry about this but I will be handing over these tapes to my friend when we get to shiro or something to that effect"

>>1820010
>>1820017

You know what? Changing my vote. This is better >>1820015 supporting it.

>>1820010
>Mention your past work with the Genovese

>They could be interested in this, along with the nodes that bear their insignia (assuming we have them with us). I don't really want to enter into long term relationship with them but we could get something out of this mess at least.
>Any thoughts? Ideas?

Also we should be helping ourselves on the way. Take a look around the caboose too in case there's tools or supplies that could come in handy, although there's no need to strip it down of everything that isn't bolted down.

>>1820012
>>1820015
>>1820022
>>1820024

Time to come clean.

Writin'

>>1820024
I bet the Genovese HATE someone using their sigil to commit crimes.

>>1820047

They are who they are, after all.

>>1820010

"I know, crazy right?" You can't help the humorless laugh that spills out of you, "And to think I wasted four months in the Badlands trying to get away from exactly this kind of shit only for it to come right back to haunt me".

Both of your companions give you curious looks.

"Yeah, right, never mentioned that before," Considering your words briefly, you turn back to them, "The family that saved my life after the Fall of Westmire, they were good friends with higher ups in the Genovese family. At the time, I was a nobody with not a copper to my name and barely the clothes on my back. I needed work, since I needed to eat and I needed to repay my saviors. My options were to be a drug runner, a manual laborer, or to put my technical skills to use. So, I worked for the Genovese Syndicate as a kind of freelance contractor. I repaired weapons and armor, gave technical advice, did goods inspections; anything that was made of metal or had two moving parts, I was their guy. I squared my debts, learned as much as I could, and made a fair amount of money during the three or so years I spent working with them. However, the money wasn't always worth it: there was constant double-crosses during good shipments, threats of retaliation from unhappy customers, other mob enforcers getting involved if your delivery went through their turf. After one last job gone bad, I made a deal with an old friend to get me out of the game. It worked out, and went out on my way without a scratch. I have no obligation to them, nor do I feel any real sense of loyalty. However..." You look down at your Gauntlet meaningfully, "I know that the higher ups in Shirahoro are going to want to have this evidence. And I know that they're going to reward us for it. So that's what I'm going to do; if I have to put up with this shit I might as well get ahead from it yeah?"

You give them both one final smile before slinging your things over your shoulder.

"C'mon, we've gotta get moving"

Head where?
> To Shirahoro
> Try to find somewhere else
> Other

>>1820065

unless either of them has a better idea,
>Shirahoro

>>1820065
to shirahoro. but make sure the others are okay with it.

>>1820065
> To Shirahoro

>>1820065
> To Shirahoro

>>1820065
>>> To Shirahoro

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>>1820070
>>1820076
>>1820080
>>1820087
>>1820098

Pearl of the Orient here we come.

Writin'

>>1820065

"Unless one of you objects," You state as you start walking alongside the train tracks, "I say we continue on wards to Shirahoro. It should only be another day and a half of travel to get there".

Looking back to the others, Goo Hwi just smiles at you. Guess he really doesn't care where you go. As for Sierra...

"It was originally my idea to go there, so I'm fine with it".

She catches up to you and starts walking alongside you, your cloak still clasped around her shoulders.

Glancing to the side, you note that the old man is trailing behind you two just taking in the view of the morning. Taking the opportunity, you gently grab Sierra' shoulder and lean over to whisper to her.

"Hey, sorry about how I was back on the train. I was serious when I said I owed you that favor".

She just laughs lightly, like you told a joke. At your confused expression, she just waves you away.

Guess you're all forgiven.

It is a nice day out, despite everything...
> Talk to Sierra as you walk
> Talk to Goo Hwi as you walk
> Just take in the sights
> Other

>>1820168
> Just take in the sights

Can just appreciate things right now.

>>1820168
>> Talk to Sierra as you walk

>>1820168
>> Talk to Sierra as you walk

>>1820168
take in sights but talk with the old man about his experiences. like what's with that room of weapons

>>1820168
> Talk to Sierra as you walk

>>1820168
>Talk to Sierra

What plans does she have when we reach civilization again? Find a stationary job and settle in for a time?
Or continue travelling, find jobs that involve journey further out? (presumably somewhere with no Gambino Transport Co. or Genovese Trade Co. in it?)


Repeat with Goo Hwi

>>1820187
>>1820181
>>1820175
>>1820173

Talk to our resident combat mage it is.

Writin'

>>1820168

"Well," You speak up a few minutes later, "Someone's in a good mood".

Sierra just smirks slightly, "It was getting a bit stuffy in that train anyways".

Huh, sounds like she had an 'interesting' time dealing with Gambino after all.

You probably shouldn't bring that up now; don't want to sour the mood, "So, have any plans for when we get to Shirahoro? You mentioned that you knew a few people out here right?"

"Yeah, I've actually got an older brother out here," Huh, would you look at that, "He runs a bar called "Eden Hall"" Sierra laughs again here, "You probably wouldn't like it there; it's got a strict 'no violence allowed' rule".

You laugh along with her, "I guess you're going to work alongside him there?"

"If he needs the help, he likes running his bar as a solo gig".

Ask her about something else?
> Ask her if she'd like to go out drinking when we get there
> Ask her if she'd like to come with you when you go to the Genovese
> Ask her when you can expect that favor to be cashed in
> Ask her something else
> Just enjoy the moment together

>>1820232
I'm not a violent man, I just very much enjoy being alive.

>>1820232
>> Just enjoy the moment together

Lets see if she wants to ask something.

>>1820232
> Other:
"Well whatever happens i hope Gambino and his family aren't the kind to hold a grudge. If there is a thing i learned dealling with mobsters is that they can be quite the assholes."

Then talk to Goo Hwi. Ask what he's going to do.

>>1820232
> Just enjoy the moment together

>>1820232
Changing my vote here >>1820254
to:

> Just enjoy the moment together

>>1820232
>You probably wouldn't like it there; it's got a strict 'no violence allowed' rule".
Come on now, it's not like we WANT things to get violent... well within reason.

Anyway
>just enjoy the moment

Before turning to Goo

>>1820253
>>1820247
This

>>1820253
>>1820258
>>1820263
>>1820268
>>1820247
>>1820270

A moment of indignity, then some nice quiet.

Writin'

>>1820232

There's a moment of quiet, then a previous comment of hers fully hits you.

"Hey! I'm not a violent man! I just very much enjoy being alive! It's not my fault every other guy in the room seems to want my head on a platter..."

Sierra just giggles at your exclamations, enjoying her own private joke at your expense.

You huff, but you're still smiling.

Looking back ahead, you enjoy the warmth that the sun provides. Several birds fly overhead, chirping away. That's good; birds are the first to leave when Blight enters an area.

The two of you bask in the relative silence of the plains, surprisingly peaceful and beautiful for the Badlands. A few minutes later, and Sierra breaks it.

"Say, John" She looks over at you, "You never really mentioned what you're going to be doing in Shirahoro. I know you're going to be 'meeting' with the Genovese, but what after that?"

That's a good question, and you think on it for a bit.

You're going to...
> See if the Genovese need your skills, just like old times
> Keep moving, no reason to stick around after getting paid
> Set up a forge of sorts, establish a more permanent place to live
> Other

>>1820294
>2

>>1820294
>> Set up a forge of sorts, establish a more permanent place to live

>>1820294
"If it turns out to be a nice place, and the family promise to leave me alone, I might set up shop there. I'm a wizard with technology you know?"

>>1820294
>Haven't decided yet...
>One idea is to set up a forge, a shop, settle down for a time, make a living constructing things
>I suppose it also depends on climate in town. Gambinos might have a grudge, and Genovese might try to rope me in. It might be wiser to move on.

>>1820321
Supporting this instrad

>>1820304
>>1820316
>>1820321

Check on how things are, maybe set up shop.

Writin'

File: ForgesweetForge.png (2.53 MB, 1920x1080)

2.53 MB PNG

>>1820294

It takes you a bit to come up with an answer, but you think its a good one.

"I'll have to see how the Genovese are in Shirahoro; see how they respond to my presence there. If things go well... I've been thinking for a while of setting up shop. Maybe a Forge. I'm a wizard with technology you know?"

"A Forge?" Sierra looks very inquisitive.

"Yeah, a Forge. What about it?"

She just smirks at you, "You? A Smith? Really?"

"Ha Ha laugh it up Sierra," You give her a pointed look, "But, yeah, I've been thinking about getting into smithing. I've got a few projects I'd like to work on. I'll need a bit more than a pile of scrap metal and my wits to build them unfortunately".

The elf just hums thoughtfully while walking along. After a bit, she speaks up, "So, you'll be sticking around then?"

You just smile at her, "Maybe I will".

Anything else?
> Ask her about something else
> Talk to Goo Hwi
> Enjoy your walk
> Other

>>1820394

(I didn't even notice the Eastern decorations in the background when I picked that out that photo is perfect)

>>1820394
> Talk to Goo Hwi

Need to go my good friends try to not kill John while i'm out.

>>1820394

>Talk to Goo Hwi

How about you, Goo Hwi? What plans do you have?

>>1820394
>> Talk to Goo Hwi

Gonna have to pause things here for now. I'll be back later this evening at the soonest and tomorrow morning at the latest.

>>1820459

Writing will continue in ~ 30 mins

>>1820402
>>1820416
>>1820426

See what the Old Man is up to.

Writin'

>>1821870
Are we back in business? Great!

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>>1820394

Turning behind you, you raise your voice, "And what of you, Goo Hwi? Got any plans for when we arrive?"

He just smiles after turning to you, "Perhaps. If I recall correctly, the pupil to an old friend of mine should be living in the city. I'll see if I can't catch up with him".

Sounds like the three of you are going to be splitting up for a bit.

Thinking about it, you really haven't gotten a chance to talk to the old man in a while.

This might be the time.
> Ask him if he could teach you a few of his skills in combat
> Ask him about his younger years
> Ask him about his plans for the future
> Ask him something else
> Say nothing, enjoy the quiet

>>1821984
> Ask him about his younger years

>>1821984
> Ask him about his younger years

>>1821995
>>1822016

Even retired dogs were young once.

Writin'

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>>1821984

Slowing your steps enough that you end up right next to the man in question, you start talking.

"Say, we haven't really gotten a chance to talk, have we?"

"Hmm..." He scratches his chin, "I suppose you're right. I believe the last time we spoke at any length was when you woke up from collapsing..."

He frowns slightly at his own words, looking over at you for a moment before his face goes slightly more neutral, "At least you're looking better now. Regardless, you wanted to talk to me?"

His gaze is slightly unnerving, as his pale, colorless eyes travel over you. Still, you did want to talk to him, "Yeah, I was just a bit curious as to how you were when you were younger".

"When I was younger...? Ah," He smiles wistfully at your question, "That was quite some time ago, not too much worth talking about".

"Goo Hwi, I've seen you turn Corrupted into dark paste, there's no way you weren't of some renown when you were younger," You're not sure if he's just being modest, but you don't buy for a moment that he doesn't have a few good stories.

"Well..." He looks out ahead, "I suppose I was like you: ambitious, stubborn, some wanderlust. Struck out on my own for sometime, ran into a mercenary group that I stayed with for many a year. We were all a group of head-strong fools, but most of us managed to reach retirement so we must have done something right. There's not too many of us left now, but that's alright".

Goo Hwi looks... content with his past, something you're slightly envious of.

"Thanks, Goo Hwi, for telling me that," You nod at him.

Before you turn away, he pulls you back a bit further from Sierra. Apparently to talk privately.

"John, you're looking better now, but you really need to be careful. That wound on your back is not going to heal properly if you keep aggravating it".

W-what?
> "I don't know what you're talking about"
> "..."
> "... It's a old wound; it's not going to heal"
> Other

>>1822149
> "..."

>>1822149
> "..."

>>1822149
>Other
>"Well, as long as no one is going to try and kill me in the next few days, I should be fine."

>>1822149
> "..."
> "... It's a old wound; it's not going to heal"

>>1822149

> "..."
> "... It's a old wound; it's not going to heal"

File: John_TakesaNap.png (162 KB, 731x241)

162 KB PNG

>>1822162
>>1822168
>>1822175
>>1822176
>>1822180

Young, but not fresh-faced.

Writin'

>>1822149

His words completely catch you off guard, so it's all you can do to just stay quiet.

Without a word, you just turn to regard him. You have no idea what you look like right now, but you can see the bare edges of Goo Hwi's face tighten as your gaze meets his.

You turn forwards once more and move to walk faster when his grip tightens.

"John... I'm sorry, but I'm being serious here".

He definitely sounds genuine, and if he was talking to you about anything else in that tone of voice you'd appreciate it. But he's not talking about anything else.

"... It's an old wound," You quietly speak up, making sure to keep your voice low enough so Sierra won't hear as she wanders ahead, "It's not going to heal".

"Are you sure?"

You just nod, "I'll be fine. Well, assuming no one tries to kill me in the next few days I'll be fine. But I think you know a bit about my track record at this point..."

There's really not much else to be said there.

The conversation lapses for a bit there, though just when you think he's not going to bring it back up he does.

"You know you're a very lucky man, John. Any further down, and it would have severed your spine".

That's... disturbingly accurate, "... I know".

Well, maybe you can turn the conversation around here.
> Ask him if he could teach you a few of his skills in combat
> Ask him about his apparent 'blindness'
> Ask him about his plans for the future
> Ask him something else
> Say nothing, enjoy the quiet

>>1822224
> Ask him about his apparent 'blindness'
for a blind man he can see quite a lot.

>>1822224
> Ask him if he could teach you a few of his skills in combat
"I might as well learn how to use this broadsword properly, anyhow..."

> Ask him about his apparent 'blindness'

>>1822224
>> Ask him if he could teach you a few of his skills in combat
>"I might as well learn how to use this broadsword properly, anyhow..."
>> Ask him about his apparent 'blindness'

>>1822237
>>1822241
>>1822262

Alright, 'blind man', show me how this sword-thing works.

Writin'

>>1822280
>inb4 you hit people you don't like with the sharp part and hold to it in the not sharp part.

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>>1822224

"You know," You suddenly speak up, louder than before, "For a so-called 'blind man' you're disturbingly perceptive".

Goo Hwi starts laughing at you, the heaviness of the previous minutes no longer on his face. You're starting to feel like you're on the end of a very long punch line.

"... You're not actually blind, are you?" With a deadpan expression, you can't help yourself.

"Oh, no no. I'm blind as a bat," He laughs one last time before speaking up again, "I was born blind. However, my mother was quite practiced in the arcane arts during her time. Not skilled enough to restore my sight, but she was skilled enough to bestow upon me Manasight; a gift that has been quite invaluable to me in my life. It took some time to get used to, and it took some time to develop in some of its more useful applications but I wouldn't trade it for anything".

Huh, you suppose that explained somethings, "So, you can just see Mana in people and things is that right?"

"In it's most basic form," Seeing it now, you can see his eyes flash for but a moment, "It's a bit beyond the base now. I can see the mana moving through you, yes, though I can also see what people put err... how to phrase this... 'emphasis' on. Before you ask, to my sight your hair is a bright gold and your eyes are twin sapphires. Quite the interesting combination, I'd say".

Oh.
> "Y-you... knew?"
> "What else do you see?"
> Bury your face in your hands
> Other

>>1822340
>> "Y-you... knew?"

>>1822340
> "Y-you... knew?"

>>1822340
>> Other
Bang head against nearest rock outcropping
> "So I presume that my back problems were pretty obvious from when we first met."

>>1822340
>> "Y-you... knew?"
>>> Other
>Bang head against nearest rock outcropping
>> "So I presume that my back problems were pretty obvious from when we first met."

>>1822350
>>1822352
>>1822360
>>1822366

It is on terminal embarrassment that I must unfortunately stop us for tonight. Tomorrow the gig being up will continue. I'll be around to answer any questions, as always, but goodnight to you all.

>>1822371
Good nigth Story-T. I need to sleep now see you tomorrow.

>>1822340
Y-you... knew?
What else do you see?

>>1822340

"Y-you... knew?"

"Yes"

"...the entire time?"

"Yes"

Oh gods. There's a deep and burning desire welling up within you to find the nearest rock outcropping and smash your face against it. Unfortunately, you were currently in the middle of a plain.

Terminal embarrassment is slowly being trumped by curiosity now.

"...What else do you see? What else is 'pronounced'?"

"Well, I can see the scars and burns that run along your hands and arms, respectively. Aside from that..." He trails off here, his voice lowering and becoming less jovial, "That wound against your back is like a single, black brush of ink against canvas".

"So," You voice is equally quiet, "I presume that my back problems were pretty obvious from when we first met?"

"Somewhat. At first, it wasn't extremely prevalent. Faded. I thought that it was a old wound; important, but in the past. When we met again during the attack on Bo Shan, however, it was 'flared' I suppose is a way of putting it. It was a dark, ugly thing that looked as if it was eating away at your person. Since it returned to being dormant after you recovered from being dead on your feet, I thought little of it. However, during our escape from the train just this previous night, it was back to tearing into your visage. You had no other wounds, and had not been fighting long enough to be exhausted. This is why I am concerned. I will not press you on how you received such a grievous wound, but if you would like I could take a look at it in the future".

"Thanks, Goo Hwi," He's given you quite a bit to think on now, "I might actually take you up on that. Actually, if you don't mind, can you train me in how to use this Broadsword? I know the basics: pointy end away from me and all that. But I'd like to improve".

He seems to consider it for a bit, before smiling at you. Raising his voice, you can hear the humor in his voice, "A pupil? Haha, how long has it been since I was asked last? Ahh, yes, I can teach you a bit of what I know. We'll do it tonight".

You nod in thanks.

Sierra turns back to look at what he's laughing at. The two of you look at each other and smile.

Anything else?
> Ask him something else
> Ask Sierra something
> Say nothing, enjoy the walk
> Other

>>1823537
>> Say nothing, enjoy the walk

>>1823537
enjoy the walk.

>>1823551
>>1823554

Enjoy the view.

Writin'

>>1822340
I don't get it, what's the implication here?

File: WhatalovelydayforaWalk.png (1.81 MB, 1000x1125)

1.81 MB PNG

>>1823537

The conversation ends there. For the rest of the day, the three of you enjoy the simple pleasure of a lovely day of travel.

Towards the end of the day, you make it to the end of the plains and to the Highlands. You're briefly reminded of the fact that this was where the merc team was going to make their move this passed morning. Who knows if they actually went through with it?

Either way, you're making good time. You've got to stop to set up camp, picking an alcove that is out of the wind enough to get a fire going.

Setting down your gear, you finally get a chance to get out of your armor, noting the slight damage to the chestpiece where you were shot, but other than that it's still in Good condition.

It's nice to get all the weight off your back.

Now what?
> Check Inventory
> Talk to Sierra about something
> Talk to Goo Hwi about your training
> Talk to Goo Hwi about something else
> Other

>>1823585

Way back in part 1, John was dealing with being the hot new Gaijin in town. So, he asked Sierra if Goo Hwi was going to be an asshole to him. Being told he was blind, John made no attempt to tell him that he is in fact a Westerner. The implication is that Goo Hwi knew from the beginning that John is a Westerner.

>>1823587

>other: fix the chest plate. then offer to take a look at the old mans gauntlets, I'm curious about their anti blight powers.

and I found the anthem for the golem army/EXO army.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqo9NXkRaPk

>>1823592
So he's embarrassed for being a tiny bit of a dick, I found it odd he'd blush like an anime girl over his back pains.

>>1823587
>Check for damage and polish the suit to a mirror sheen. Children and their toys

>>1823596
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEJP3y7QLPA

>>1823596
>>1823605

Time to repair our armor.

> Roll me three 1d100+30's please

Rolled 68 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>1823610

Rolled 99 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>1823610
by the golems let us fix this armour that we may construct the true knights arsenal

Rolled 58 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>1823610

>>1823615

I see Part 7 is continuing the grand Artificer Quest tradition of being /qst/'s personal dice god heat sink.

That's a 129, Outstanding Success.

Writin'

>>1823620
story teller, you underestimate our faith in the dice gods, and you under estimate their rewarding of the faithful. even the nat ones serve the potential of greater understanding. are not all /qst/ers merely acolytes of the dice gods? the bumbling children attempting to be master knights of their will?

tell me to tone down the autism and I will, but I enjoy the religion of the dice gods

>>1823622

Add another faction to the collection, at this point. I personally find it amusing.

>>1823587

First things first, you should really get your armor back into new condition.

So, pulling out your Tool Set, Multitool, a bit of Scrap Metal, and the Chestpiece itself, you make yourself a little working space and get to it.

The three rounds caught you dead center, but thanks to your workmanship they did not penetrate beyond the outer armor layer. Pulling it apart, you manage to remove the bullets, placing the flattened rounds down on the rock. Removing the damaged layer, you remove the weakened metal, interpose a thin layer of scrap, and smooth it all out with liberal application of the Welding function of your Multitool.

It takes some time, as your making sure to conserve as much scrap as you can in the process.

At the end of it, your armor is fixed, the pile of scrap is slightly smaller but not as much as it could be.

> You have used 1 lb of Scrap Metal!

Looking back up, Goo Hwi is watching your work curiously, while Sierra looks on as she munches on a ration.

Now what?
> Check Inventory
> Talk to Sierra about something
> Talk to Goo Hwi about your training
> Talk to Goo Hwi about something else
> Other

>>1823641
it is not a faction, it is the religion of /QST/ but anywho

>check inventory then talk about training.

"now if I can get as good at using my blade as my tools, I doubt even the bli- mercs could stop us" *devilish smile*

>>1823641
>Goo Hwi, you said you enjoyed watching artificers at work, but what do you see?

>Idle hands are the devil's plaything- play with the multitool while talking and make a little bracelet, or a choker or a ring, just something to keep our hands busy

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>>1823641

Going to be back in class in a few minutes so here's an inventory check before I'm gone.

INVENTORY:
> 1 Heavy Cloak with Hood
> 1 Concealed Dagger
> 1 Change of Clothing
> 15 Silver Coins
> 39 Copper Coins
> 7 Ration Packs
> 10 bandages
> 2 canteens
> 1 Good Quality Broadsword
> 1 Artifact Tool Box
> 1 Ancient Grade Welder/Cutting Torch Multitool
> 6 Custom-made Datalinks
> Magitech Gauntlet, Integrated Datalink and Armor
> 1 Good Quality Modified Clockwork Automatic Rifle (Improved Action, Folding Stock)
> 8 Clockwork Rifle Magazines (7 Rounds per Mag)
> 1 Simple Quality Modified Pistol (Improved Sight)
> 6 Pistol Magazines (10 Rounds per Mag)
> (1) Good Quality Modified Medium Armor Full-Set
> (1) Good Quality Gauntlet Integrated Knuckle Taser (Left hand)
> 7 lbs of Scrap Metal

>>1823650
have fun story teller, we shall wait for your return.

DEUS GOLEMS. or however it goes

>>1823647
Most likely he sees our mana flow when we work on a device. To him it must look like a Tai chi exercise. Someone manipulating mana but not being a mana and doing so in a fluid and controlled well. At least that's what i think it must look when a real artificier works.

>>1823641
>Talk to Goo Hwi about your training

Also, for future reference (and under optimistic assumption of making it to that point in one piece), what projects does John intend to realize in his workshop/forge?

Obviously there's
>EXO suit
which may well become essential if our blighted back ends up crippling us
>Golem forge
that's still a lot of classified info and licensing issues away

What is legal status of smaller autonomous machines? And what about remotely controlled machines, like spy drones?

I submit that we should strive to build an ornithopter or another aerodyne and have it ready as an escape route.

>>1823657
Exo suit is just a few steps away we just need another arm. For now it looks more like a Fallout armor.

>>1823764
when did we get this?

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>>1823761
>ornithopter

Are we going to become a Master of metal?

>>1823764
it's not, all we have is magitech gauntlet (more a not!pipboy than a power fist) and some modded armor

>>1823774
In the train we knocked out two guards and worked on it. We had enough time to work in the chest, legs, boots and the helmet. I believe the only reinforced part are the chest since it's the bigger part of a human body so we decided to rei force it. We also grabbed a pistol with a adjusted sigth and upgraded the rifle. We look more like a soldier or a merc rigth now.

>>1823760
Yeah, but it's John asking

>>1823789
Dude do you know what an exo suit is? It's not a suit of train security armor. All we have is a magitech gauntlet and extra thicc riot gear or something.

Also we should check the gauntlet's datalink. Can we get tracked by that link when it's not active, or when it's connected? What is its range for connection?

Could mercs have left message for us on it? Would accessing mercs' systems again reveal our location?

Better not activate the link if it could be used to trace us for now, I think.

>>1823789
That's not an exoskeleton. It's a magitech gauntlet and a set of regular, if high quality, armour

>>1823789
no we didn't, we got medium armour. shitty mall cop armour we made good. if you don't belive me then look here>>1823650

>>1823781
I know what i meant to say is. To develop a REAL EXO-suit we will work on the armor a little bit more. Since we will need to improve in our knowledge on how to build the outer layer for the suit. Now we need to find a powersource. Because i doubt that just a normal human mana will be enough to feed the suit.

>>1823781
>>1823791
>>1823805
>>1823806
You guys are right i just worded in a really bad way.

>>1823818
its fine, but if we cant get any REAL exos to practice on, we might just need to find shit like pumps and other things with hydraulics. this will let us make the joints if we can minimise the knowledge

Once we get a workshop we could probably build a power armor frame like in Fallout 4. That might be the best way to start.

>>1823764
>>1823774
>>1823781
>>1823805

For visualization purposes, think of the medium armor you have as 40k IG or XCOM1 Carapace Armor. Segmented armor pieces over fatigues, or in John's case normal clothing.

>>1823641

"Goo Hwi, what exactly does it look like when I'm working? You said you've always found Artificer's at work to be fascinating, so now I'm curious".

He gives you question some serious thought, "It's a bit difficult to explain exactly; the simplest explanation would be that you're interacting with the mana in the object you're working with. But that's something that anyone does while interacting with anything, doesn't quite do what you do justice".

Scratching his chin, he takes a moment to collect his thoughts. While you wait, you put your gear away aside from the Multitool, which you start fiddling with idly, "Maybe two decades ago, I worked with an Artificer and a Scholar. The three of us worked out that the Artificer would subconsciously ingrain geometric shapes, equations, sequences, and various laws of arithmetic and engineering depending on what he was working on. There were only three to four of these phenomena on each piece he constructed, but they still there despite his lack of skill in Mana Sculpting. Every Artificer I've met, yourself included, creates this exact same subconscious phenomena. Given that I've found various artifacts with extremely sophisticated inscriptions done in mana, I suspect that it was perhaps once a well practiced technique that we have simply lost over time. What you just did is potentially the root of that lost practice".

Huh... That was actually quite interesting.

"What about this?" You hold up your Multitool, "What's this look like?"

Goo Hwi doesn't respond, simply staring intently at the artifact for a moment before blinking, "I... don't believe I could decipher this".

"Why's that?"

"Because that tool has a single inscription on it. I have no idea what it is or what it does, but that single equation governs the entirety of its function".

"Well..." You knew this was a sophisticated artifact, but it sounds like it's leagues above your skill level.

"Moving on from that," Putting the Multitool away, you push yourself to you feet and grab your broadsword, "Would you mind training me now?"

He just smiles at you, grabbing his gauntlets, then motions you over to a wider area.

Sierra, still slowly eating her meal, sits down nearby to watch.

"So, how exactly are we going to do this?"

"Hmm... How indeed," He taps his chin, "Well, I suppose I should figure out where to start out with you..."

"And how is that goi-"

> Roll me three 1d100+2's please

Rolled 50 + 2 (1d100 + 2)

>>1823961
nice old man, lets not disappoint

Rolled 59 + 2 (1d100 + 2)

>>1823961

Rolled 70 + 2 (1d100 + 2)

>>1823961

Rolled 31 + 2 (1d100 + 2)

>>1823961
all aboard the pain train

File: GooHwi_YoudunFuckedUp.png (744 KB, 780x909)

744 KB PNG

Rolled 60, 67, 66 + 15 = 208 (3d100 + 15)

>>1823961

...

>>1823980

That's a 72 for you and 82 for Goo Hwi. Let's see how you do.

>>1823986
>>1823986
Ouch. Well not like i expected for us topping a master but dam Goo Hiw.

>>1823992
>>1823986
can we pull the, "we are a nerd" argument or the "hes a kungfu master who has spent decades training" argument. we did good, but shit hes a master

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>>1823993
I enjoy how his highest roll was lower than this guys'>>1823980 but ended up ahead thanks to modifier

>>1823993
>>1823997

Funnily enough, he's got an 'Expert' rating for his Unarmed Strike skill. Guess his skills have deteriorated a bit with age

>>1823961

"Ow".

It's been maybe an hour since your 'training session' with Goo Hwi. You're not in as much pain as you thought you'd be, as he spent as much time actually teaching you proper form and correcting the minor issues with your attacks as he spent nearly smashing you into paste with his bare hands.

Through sheer instinct and reflexes, you managed to get through the entire experience without losing any limbs. You had to call it quits after he managed to get a open palm strike right on top of the bruises you got from getting shot in the chest.

After making sure that you hadn't broken anything, Goo Hwi and Sierra split off to their own areas to relax in the rather nice night air.

Now what?
> Tell them you'll take the last watch and turn in for the night now
> Talk to Sierra about something
> Talk to Goo Hwi about something
> Other

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>>1824008
Can't think of any topics that needed immediate address, and after the tinkering and workout we should probably get to recuperating, there's still travel ahead of us.

>>1824024

I think I'm going to steal that photo if you guys ever end up visiting a Western Haven City.

>>1824008
let's get a move on

sleep and get to walking

>>1824008
take last watch, and tinker with our pistol. maybe even get some practice in or make a silencer. something before we sleep

>>1824008
>Other: Tell then we will take the second watch.

Not like we sleep much thanks to the nigth terrors.

>>1824024
>>1824030
>>1824038

Time for bed. We'll take an early morning.

Writin'

>>1824039

The night terrors only happen under certain conditions. You're fine at the moment.

>>1824008

"I'll take last watch," You yell over to them. Getting two affirmatives in response, you find a comfortable enough place to lie down.

It's really only hitting you now just how exhausted you are. From the 3 am wake up, to the entire fight against the train's security team, to the day-long hike, and then the training session with Goo Hwi, you're out cold right as you reach horizontal.

...

...

...

Some time later, you're awoken by the visage of Goo Hwi.

"Everything's been quiet".

Nodding to him, you get up and stretch as he walks over to sleep.

You feel... good. Despite the sleeping accommodations, you're feeling better than you have in sometime. If only slightly sore.

> Congratulations! Your sharp eye for details has further refined! Your Perception Skill is now at the Seasoned Rank!
> Congratulations! Your instinct for danger has further refined! Your Danger Sense Skill is now at the Seasoned Rank!
> Congratulations! Your ability for repair and upkeep has further refined! Your Maintenance Skill is now at Seasoned Rank!
> Congratulations! Your ability to manipulate existing items has further refined! Your Modify Skill is now at Seasoned Rank!
> Congratulations! Your ability to discern and absorb the knowledge and techniques that go into manufacturing has further refined! Your Dismantle Skill is now at Seasoned Rank!
> Congratulations! Your swordsmanship has further refined! Your Sword Fighting Skill is now at Adept Rank!
> Congratulations! Your ability to attack with any piece of your body has further refined! Your Unarmed Fighting Skill is now at Adept Rank!

You can feel a new clarity to your thoughts, a new smoothness to your movements.

What now?
> Find a good place to set up on watch
> Work on something from your inventory (what?)
> Other

>>1824070
walk

>>1824070
find a place to set up watch.

all those upgrades......
>flash back to Skyrim speed levelling
at what point do we reach level 2?

>>1824076

No player level, only skill levels.

As for why the skill levels all increased like that: You have to complete a long rest to gain the effects of skill increases. I'm doing it like this so you guys don't just find out how to magically negate the need for sleep and then just skill grind 24/7. Poor John is just a human.

>>1824082
I was making a reference, but you know we will hop him up on caffeine work 9 weeks straight then go into a "long" rest right?

>>1824070
>Find a good place to set up on watch

>>1824090

> Assigns a Fatigue Level to be "Automatically Falls Unconscious"

Well, you can try to do that.

>>1824076
>>1824099

Time for our watch.

> Roll me three 1d100+15's please

Rolled 13 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>1824111

Rolled 34 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>1824111
may our faith keep us vigilant, may our minds be sharp, may our abilitys stay until we can not anymore. dice gods bless us

Rolled 76 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>1824111

>>1824123

That's a 91. Let's see what you see.

Writin'

>>1824125
Tell us Story-T what does our artificier eyes see?

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>>1824070

You might as well do what you're supposed to do here. Grabbing some of your gear, your Rifle in particular, you walk towards the outer area. On your way out, you note Sierra fast asleep with your Heavy Cloak covering most of her.

It takes a bit of climbing, but you manage to work your way up to a ridge not too far away that affords you an excellent view of the surrounding Highlands. You've also got sight of the nearby train tracks.

The darkness of the early morning surrounds you, despite this you keep a close watch on where your two companions are. You don't see anything.

Sunrise breaks, lighting up the night sky with a spectrum of colors. You enjoy the view for a bit, before turning back.

Maybe ten minutes later, you catch movement coming down the railway. In the next minute, you can see a 4-man team on a handcart traveling back the way you came.

Huh, seems like Naofumi really does know his stuff. That's good. It also means that he most likely got to Shirahoro safely.

The end of your watch comes, and you return to the overhang.

Sierra and Goo Hwi are up and packing their things. You follow suit, and get ready for the last leg of your journey.

As you're walking...
> Talk to Sierra about something
> Talk to Goo Hwi about something
> Enjoy the walk (fast travel to Shirahoro)
> Other

>>1824147
fast travel but inform them about the movement on the lines

>>1824147
> Other

Flip through the comm channels and see if you can hear how the whole situation on the train went down from either the train mercs or Rider's team. DON'T FORGET TO DISABLE YOUR MICROPHONE.

>>1824147
>Enjoy the walk
while making smalltalk with both of them.

>>1824147
> Enjoy the walk (fast travel to Shirahoro)

>>1824163
we don't have a mic I think, although our access might not go unnoticed

I wonder if we can be tracked by those datalinks? Are they even in range?

Also make a mental note to get some sort of communicators for ourselves and Sierra and Goo Hwi when/if we get the chance

>>1824163
>>1824169
>>1824147

As you walk, you absentmindedly open up your Gauntlet and access the Datalink you jury-rigged into it.

Tapping your way onto where you had access the merc's comm line and part of Rider's central computer, you find that you no longer have connection to either of those things. Seems like Rider either cut the connection to your Datalink, or more likely just shut down all communications with any of them since you've got all 6 of them in your bag.

Grabbing the guard earpiece you snatched off of one of the guys you assaulted, you try that as well. There's nothing but static; guess you're out of range. Making sure to turn it off before anything else, you put it back away and continue with your hike.

>>1824151
>>1824165
>>1824166

Get us right into the action it is.

Writin'

>>1824186

The three of you continue to make good time to Shirahoro. Along the way, you take a moment to tell Sierra and Goo Hwi about the recovery team going for the Caboose. Maybe you'll get a chance to meet up with Naofumi again.

Time passes rather quickly, and after a short break for food and water, the three of you manage to make it to Shirahoro.

Well, the outermost defensive lines of Shirahoro, that is.

The Eastern city isn't quite a Safe Haven, but maybe in a few decades and with a few really good Ruin finds it might get there. Still, the place is extremely well defended.

Coming down from the Highlands, you can see where teams of workers burned down the surrounding forests to clear a certifiable killzone outside of the first defensive line. It takes you almost 15 minutes of walking before you get to the first gate, where a line of travelers like yourselves are waiting to be allowed past. Looking up, you can see the expert masonry that went into creating this solid, stone wall. It's easily two stories high, a looming grey barrier that was clearly built for protection not aesthetics. Along it are various towers and entrenchments that soldiers patrol, every once in a while you note that there are pillboxes for heavy, long-range weapons are to be mounted.

The entire line is a neat, orderly affair with several soldiers walking up and down it just giving everyone a look over. One of which stops to look at you, but just nods at you when you give him a questioning look and he continues on his way.

Maybe an hour after you got on the line, it's finally your turn.

"Papers and ID please," The guard, who looks and sounds like he never wants to work this position again in his life motions the three of you forwards.

Being a smart and frequent wanderer, you never kept your ID or papers in your bag. Reaching into a hidden pocket in your leg, you pull out...
> Perfectly normal ID and papers, just your average guy here
> The ID and papers you used back when you worked for the Gambinos, they claim that you're a technical adviser for their trading guild
> No ID or papers, you lost those back in Westmire
> Other

>>1824244
>the ID we had for our former contractor/patron after all it might even alert them to our presence and make finding them easier

>>1824244
>Perfectly normal ID and papers, just your average guy here
We were kind of semi-respectable professionals after Westmire, were we not?

>>1824256

You were pretty well respected among the Genovese.

>>1824244

Also, I'm an idiot. It's not papers from the Gambinos, it's papers from the Genovese when you worked with them back in Airgrid.

>>1824262
Pull out the normal ID and papers, but consider pulling out the Genovese ones.

>>1824262
I'd rather not use any documents specifically from the mafia, considering how we formally quit their employment.

>>1824271

Also, I really didn't make this very apparent, but this is less of a choice of what you have and more choosing what you have had all along. You only have one of these options.

>>1824271
>>1824256

Average Joe papers it is.

Writin'

>>1824244

You pull out the paperwork that you got when you first arrived in Airgrid. At the time, they just gave you basic ID and papers as they had to deal with with the rest of the survivors as well.

Regardless, you had them over to the guard after he looks over Sierra's and asks her a few questions.

"So," He just skims over the papers, "Airgrid, huh? You're pretty far from home, Gaijin. Any particular reason you traveled across the entire Badlands to get here?"

> Travel
> Work
> Other

>One of which stops to look at you, but just nods at you when you give him a questioning look

Someone just got jelly of our gear.

>>1824307
> Other
"Ask ya momma"

>>1824307

>Work and Travel adventure package

It's not exactly what the pamphlet promised, but there is no lack of excitement

We came by foot because we heard horrible things about the transit company.

>>1824307
>Travel and work

This is true we are a wonderer seeing were we can use or find a place to do our job as a artificier. Maybe twll him of what happen in the town we were before?

>>1824318
Don't be a smart ass with the person that can accept or deny your entrance to the town.

>>1824321
Can't we just say we are comming from the town that was recently taken by the bligth?

>>1824307
>> Travel
>> Work
>> Other
"More so the Blight."

>>1824307
"Not much of a life left in the town after the Blight hit."

>>1824307

"Travel and Work. I'm a bit of a wanderer, and now I'm here to see what money I can make here".

"Oh really," He looks up at you and raises an eyebrow, "And just what trade are you in?"

"I'm an Artificer".

There's a hint of disbelief still in his gaze, so you simply raise up your Magitech Gauntlet. He looks it over, noting your clear modifications to it.

"Well," After a rather long silence, he speaks up, "If you really are an Artificer looking for work, and you're skilled enough, you might want to head over to the Fire District. Find the Main Bastion there and tell the men working the front that you're there to take the Trade Competency Test. You take that, you pass in whichever field you apply for and you'll receive the relevant Proof of Merit. With that, you'll be able to take contracting work for the Shirahoro Daimyo. Many other Guilds in the city look upon these Proofs in rather high regard, as well".

The guard hands you back your papers and nods you through. You walk over to where Sierra now is and wait with her for Goo Hwi to be cleared through. Going through the gate, you noted that the Outer wall was easily 15 feet thick. Rather impressive.

He's passed through without issue, only a few calm words between the two, and you all make your way.

Walking along, you pass by two additional defensive lines, both as imposing as the Outer, though not as heavily manned.

Twenty minutes later, you arrive at the beginnings of the Earth District. It's nice enough, though it's quite clear that this is the lower-class district. Right nearby is the Fire District, where you can see multitudes of soldiers entering or leaving, most of which seem to be walking to or from homes in the Earth District. On the other side of the city is the Wind District, which looms about you. You get the feeling that you'll find any government-types and any upper-class individuals there. Lastly is the Water District, which is almost entirely compromised by Shirahoro's port and the steam-powered industrial centers that are so vital to this city's economy. Maybe you could find the local Genovese there.

Goo Hwi mentions a halfway decent inn here in the Earth District before he walks off, stating that it'd be a good place to meet up with again tonight. Looks like he's going further into the bowels of this District.

Sierra heads off to the Water District, probably going to see if she can't find her brother.

What now?
> Catch up with Goo Hwi
> Catch up with Sierra
> Head over to the Fire District to take a Competency Test
> Try to find your 'friends'
> Other

>>1824373
> Head over to the Fire District to take a Competency Test

Let's try to get set up before we diddle the mafia. Don't want to owe them any favors because they rigged the tests or something without our knowledge that they'll dangle before us later.

>>1824373
>> Head over to the Fire District to take a Competency Test

Might as well get it out of the way.

>>1824373
Was tempted to find "friends" and offload the intel as it's growing cold but >>1824384 makes a good point.

Let's go
>Head over to the Fire District to take a Competency Test

>>1824384
>>1824386
>>1824398

Let's get the shinny.

Writin'

>>1824373

That Competency Test sounds like something you should get out of the way immediately.

You'll meet up with your companions tonight, you guess. For now, it's off to the Fire District for you.

As you walk, you take a look around. The Earth District isn't all dirt and heartbreak, several shops, restaurants, and even a few bars are around; they're teaming with people, both civilians and soldiers.

Making your way into the Fire District is an interesting experience, as it's much more built up. Cobblestone now paves the streets, you spot several forges nearby with men inside hard at work.

Now, to find the Main Bastion...
> Roll me three 1d100+10's

> I'll be having one more class, though it should be a short one. I'll be stopping here, writing should resume in like 2 hrs at most I think.

Rolled 30 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>1824448
For Science!

Rolled 96 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>1824448

Rolled 20 + 30 (1d100 + 30)

>>1824448

>>1824474
Glad to see that the dice gods still love John.

Yeah this is going to take a while. I'll update when I'm free.

>>1824662
No worries Story-T. We will be here

We've been pretty self centered with our crafting. I don't imagine Ol' Goo will want us meddling with his gauntlets, but maybe we could come up with some suitable gifts for him and Sierra since they've been such good pals.

>>1824753
Assuming of course we pass the test and are capable of doing that.

>>1824474

106, Outstanding Success.

Writin'

>>1824474
Thanks for saving the day, namefag anon.

>>1824448

Looking around, you notice that you're beginning to enter a part of the Fire District that's more militant. The number of soldiers around is about the same, but you can spy what are obviously barracks by the soldiers sitting around playing cards, drinking, and generally trying to avoid as much work as possible.

A few of them notice you, some doing double takes at your appearance. It's a good thing you opted to bag the armor, aside from your magitech gauntlet, pistol, and rifle while going through customs. Simply walking around as yourself with your Broadsword strapped to your side is attracting enough attention.

Still, none of them try anything. Which is good, because the ones that are on-duty are absolutely armed and armored to the teeth. Most of them have the usual spear and shield set up, the ones that are seemingly the superiors are outfitted with those single-edged curved swords that some Easterners (and a few Westerners) absolutely obsessed over. Aside from different colors and insignias, each of the guards are wearing Eastern Medium Armor, with the telltale layers of strapped on flat armor over heavy leather. Supposedly, it was an absolute bitch to get a clean hit off on, but other than that you haven't heard much about it.

Eventually, you get to a building that just absolutely teams with people. A few guards are outside this massive stone-brick structure, but they appear to just be calmly scanning the crowds rather than on alert.

Now, to figure out where to take that Competency Test...
> Head on inside and try to find it yourself
> Ask the guards for directions
> Flag down a passerby for directions
> Other

>>1825129
>> Ask the guards for directions

>>1824753
Can we do explosives? Those always go down well and we don't have any right now. Glue grenades to fuck with clockwork weapons, EMP to deal with magitech. Explosive to deal with squishy bodies, that sort of thing.

>>1825129
> Head on inside and try to find it yourself

>>1825129
> Head on inside and try to find it yourself

>>1825137
We can't. OP said we need to learn a skill before we start making grenades.

>>1825153
>>1825143

How hard could this be?

> Roll me three 1d100+10's please

Rolled 22 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>1825189

Rolled 46 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>1825189

Bureaucracy, ho

Rolled 5 + 10 (1d10 + 10)

>>1825189

>>1825212
>>1825222
>>1825316
As hard as it sounds apparently

>>1825189

>>1825355
My bad

>>1825222

56, eh not your best.

Writin'

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>1825368
Here's my roll

>>1825372
It's only best of three anon.

>>1825370
But is it enough?

>>1825129

Walking into the Main Bastion is quite the experience. The reception area is clearly not the largest room in this building, as your practically up to your ears in people. It takes a bit for you to find the proper line, and unfortunately it is the longest.

From the sounds of several people talking around you, this 'Competency Test' is a way for the military to set standards for various fields of craft outside of the artisan guilds themselves. Surprisingly enough, you can also be tested for combat skills. Sounds like these 'Proof of Merit' badges carry some serious weight around here.

At some point in the line, you're given a piece of paper with a rather long list on it and an ink quill to write with.

Quickly jotting down the name on your ID, "John Hoelscher", into the information section you get to the actual sign up for the tests. From the looks of things, you can apply for multiple tests during a single visit. That's good, if you're lucky you won't have to wait in line again.

Your choices are... (Pick any of these):
> Magitech
> General Engineering
> Smithing
> Electric and Wiring
> Swordsmanship
> Unarmed Combat
> Other