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Time for more psionic shenanigans!

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BurningGray
Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=XCOM%20Trooper%20Quest
Squad Info: https://pastebin.com/4KJN5HKK (embed) (embed)

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>>2813689
>>Swap.
It'll make it a short session, but this is an invaluable move

>>2813689
>Swap.

>>2813689
>>Solace.
The mind is a valuable thing, and the state of heightened perception and calm can be of great use in emergencies to reduce panic and maybe improve aim and accuracy. Hopefully it can even stack with Juggernaut for Terminator mode.

If it can be cast on others, I wonder if Vahlen would want it to think better... hah. Probably most appreciated by Peppermint though for the focus.

>Juggernaut
Pixel said something about there being a psionic ability tree and it being divided into 4 branches or something of the sort. Maybe if we keep practising juggernaut we might unlock the next ability in the branch.

If that's not how it works, please ignore my vote, Pixel.

>>2813784
I think Juggernaut/Solace/Swap is part of one of the branches.

Attempting to learn other abilities would explore other branches

...I think.

>>2813784
>>2813800
You are both correct!

>>2813689
>Swap.

Time to freak out Loki, mightily.

>>2813689
>>Solace.

>>2813689
>Swap.

>>2813689
>Solace
Lets keep it simple so that we have the energy to find a way to assess someone for The Gift

>>2813689
>Swap

>>2813719
>>2813736
>>2813845
>>2813871
>>2813889
A really close vote but it looks like it's going to be Swap, writing!

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After a moment of thought you decide to expand your current repertoire on the… ‘branch’ of abilities you’re already aware of. You feel pretty comfortable already with Juggernaut, especially considering you can put the fear of humanity into your enemies with Intimidating Aura. You decide to try and learn how to properly use Swap.

Reaching down, you pick up two distinctly different looking rocks on the ground. There’s more than enough rocks to go around. You hold each rock in both hands and channel some of your Focus into swapping the pair of rocks. There’s a surreal but ultimately satisfying sensation as you will both rocks to switch places, transferring across your hands and defying the entirety of physics as a whole. Even just transferring the rocks takes a noticeable amount of Focus, which means this ability is going to cost a lot of that precious resource...

You’ll need to keep Swapping things to really get a good feel of what you’re capable of re-placing. You’re not sure of the range either. It’s safe to assume the farther and larger the object you Swap, the more Focus it will cost.

“Are you doing something? I can’t tell.” Loki speaks up. You glance back over to see her leaning on the table, trying to get a better angle of what you’re doing. She's keenly interested.

It’s then a thought occurs to you. Why stop at just objects? You turn down at yourself and then over to a quizzical looking Loki, still unsure what you’ve just had done. All she knows is you're still 'actively' using magic with your glowing eyes remaining.

Hm…

>Start small. Take your time and get a feel of how Swap works. Least Focus. (TN 20)
>Swap yourself with something else in the room. Moving yourself around would probably be your baseline for the ability. Moderate Focus. (TN 40)
>Swap Loki. You’ll really test the limits of the ability… and the look on Loki’s face will be utterly priceless. Most Focus. (TN 25-50)
>Other (TN ???)

>>2813965
>>Swap Loki. You’ll really test the limits of the ability… and the look on Loki’s face will be utterly priceless. Most Focus. (TN 25-50)

>>2813965
>Swap yourself with something else in the room. Moving yourself around would probably be your baseline for the ability. Moderate Focus. (TN 40)

>>2813965
>Start small.

>>2813965
>Swap Loki. You’ll really test the limits of the ability… and the look on Loki’s face will be utterly priceless. Most Focus. (TN 25-50)

>>2813965
>>Swap Loki. You’ll really test the limits of the ability… and the look on Loki’s face will be utterly priceless. Most Focus. (TN 25-50)

Was there really any other choice than the big red button?

>>2813965
>>Swap Loki. You’ll really test the limits of the ability… and the look on Loki’s face will be utterly priceless. Most Focus. (TN 25-50)

>>2813965
>>Swap Loki. You’ll really test the limits of the ability… and the look on Loki’s face will be utterly priceless. Most Focus. (TN 25-50)

>inb4 Nat 1 causing us to Swap hair colors

>>2813965
>>Swap yourself with something else in the room. Moving yourself around would probably be your baseline for the ability. Moderate Focus. (TN 40)

>>2814006
Sounds better than the typical expectation of a bungled Swap Power causing Dozer and Loki to switch bodies for around half an hour.

>>2814006
What is Dozer's hair color anyway?

>swap Loki
We gonna use this to save someones ass.
Also, here's hoping Pixel wont turn a mishap into turning her inside out

>>2813976
>>2813986
>>2813988
>>2813992
>>2814006
>>2814033
Swapping Loki it is, writing!

>>2814032
You gotta look under his hat!

>>2814033
Speaking of which, can we use Swap as a method of attack? Sorta like swapping the beating heart of a Muton with a piece of concrete we're touching.

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>>2814061
Or switching a Thin Man's sunglasses with this.

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You drop one of the rocks onto the ground, idly bouncing the remaining rock on your hand. You make the mental calculations in your head and decide to go big and swap Loki. You’ll reason it later as a stress test, or to prove a hypothesis you have, something like that. Really, you just want to mess with Loki.

You turn to Loki, rock still bouncing on your hand. No matter how hard you try, you can’t suppress yourself from smirking like a cheeky little shit. Loki may not understand what you’re about to do, but she quickly starts to imagine your intent.

“Dozer…” Loki says, carefully, immediately on guard. Looking at you dead on. You smirk a little wider. “...What are you do--”

Before she can finish her sentence you toss the rock up into the air in front of you, mentally ‘tagging’ it to be Swapped. At the same time, you lock your eyes back onto Loki and begin the process. You catch a glimpse of her eyes widening in surprise as she’s begins to glow with purple energy. You immediately feel the mental strain as you will her entire being to switch places with the rock!

>Roll 1d100 (TN 25-50)

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Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>2814116
huh dab

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>2814116

Here's for avoiding a Freaky Friday.

Rolled 30 (1d100)

>>2814116

>>2814029
The alternative could always be swapping clothes.

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>>2814142
Clothes huh...

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For a split second, you feel her ‘soul’ flit through the air… for a lack of a better word. She’s not actually in the air of course, but she is. Loki’s in that in-between place from where you draw your psionic energy. And then she’s not, you feel the air above you pop as Loki re-appears. Clattering onto the table was the rock that you were just holding.

Loki lets out a surprised yelp, as she flails about and begins to fall, but you already have your arms outstretched to catch her. She lets out an oomph as you stop her from hitting the rocky floor on her ass. And speaking of a certain word in that previous sentence, it’s pretty damn nice.

“Huh!!” Loki exclaims dazed and confused, the first thing you. She’s wide-eyed and frantic, completely thrown off from the experience. She looks about and then realizes you’re carrying her. “W-what did you just do!?”

“”I caught you.” You say, nonchalantly.

“Not just that! How am I here and not over there and in your h-h-- L-Let go of me![/I]” Loki squirms in your grasp. You don’t let go, this is priceless. It’s not like she can do anything in this position, you’re an Assault and she’s an Engineer. Assaults win in close quarters, that’s just a fact.

“Well if you want me to be specific, I Swapped you with a rock.”

“A bit of a warning would’ve been nice!”

“There’s no fun in that.”

“What if I’m not even the ‘me’ that was sitting on that table!?” Loki says frantically. “What if I’m a replacement. What if you had just ki-”

“No. I didn’t.” You say seriously. “I felt your soul being swapped. You’re still you. I promise.”

“My… soul?” Loki gives you a face you mentally snapshot. “Are you even hearing the words that are coming out of your mouth?”

“It’s the best thing that sums up what I felt in the process.” You shrug, in the process you heft her a bit causing her to make a rather pleasant noise. “I can Swap not only objects or things, but people too. I could probably go even more specific if I had enough Focus.”

“That’s fine and all, but I’m more interested if you could let me down!” Loki fumes.

“Fine fine.” You chuckle, setting her down.

“Are you done with your surprises?” Loki huffs, crossing her arms and glaring at you.

You idly scratch your chin, thinking.

>You’ll let her know next time.
>Smile smugly back at her and say nothing.
>Other

>>2814273
>Smile smugly back at her and say nothing.
Too good to resist.

>>2814273
>>You’ll let her know next time.

>>2814273
>>You’ll let her know next time.

>>2814273
>Smile smugly back at her and say nothing.

>>2814273
>>Smile smugly back at her and say nothing.

>>2814273
>>You’ll let her know next time.

>>2814273
>Smile smugly back at her and say nothing.

>>2814292
>>2814300
>>2814304
>>2814349

Giving Loki a taste of her own medicine it is, writing!

>>2814352
No, seriously, did you expected OTHER choice, Pixel?

You can’t help yourself as you just opt to smile back at her with that same oh so smug face she has. You don’t say a word. There’s a temptation to go all the way and humm at her, but that might be going a bit to far with the teasing.

She just glares at you and sighs. “...Fair enough. I may have deserved that on several occasions.”

You may have soured things a bit with Loki at that, but it was oh so worth it. You silently consider yourself even with the Engineer for the time being. She hums in disapproval at this, and blums a stray lock of hair out from in front of her face.

“How did it feel being Swapped?” You ask, switching the topic.

“Besides the added surprise of it… the sensation was overwhelming. Once I was in your--” She groans. “--Your arms, there is a total sense of vertigo and nausea for a moment as I assume my body and ‘soul’ remembers what it is like to exist once again. One would need practice to get used to it, so don’t expect to drop any of Strike-1 into a group of aliens without regret.”

“Aliens probably wouldn’t enjoy it, however.” You consider.

“Not at all.”

You note the vibrancy of the world has dimmed somewhat, and you can already feel a measure of fatigue setting in. Swap’s definitely a Focus drainer, so until you get better at improving your willpower and mental strength you won’t be pulling switcharoos repeatedly on the aliens in a firefight. Still, the possibilities really are endless. You ease up a bit, a consider your next options. Gauging your own mental levels, you can probably keep going with a few more Swaps, but that would be it for training. It would help with improving your efficiency of casting it and if Loki wants, it would help her gain a stomach to the act.

>Work on Swap further.
>Practice Solace.
>Improve Juggernaut.
>Try to learn new abilities.
>Other.

>>2814464
>Practice Solace.

>>2814464
>>Practice Solace.

>>2814464
>>Practice Solace.

Time for Zen Dozer.

>>2814464
>Try to learn new abilities.

>>2814464
>Practice Solace.

>>2814464
>Try to learn new abilities.

>>2814464
>Practice Solace.

>>2814464
>>Try to learn new abilities.
could we try to regen our focus or work on making it more efficient?

>>2814464
>>Practice Solace.

>>2814467
>>2814471
>>2814477
>>2814487
>>2814507
>>2814517
Solace it is, writing!

Solid choice. I think I should feel bad about messing with her, i just cant. Heh..

>>2814587
Well, I think if we make her feel real nice and at peace with Solace, I think it might make up for it.

>>2814597
Just be careful not to mess up Solace to the point where our squad either gets pumped with RAGE, or need a new change of pants after experiencing pure ecstasy.

Being economical with how much Focus you decide is a priority as you switch tactics to focus on your third ability you can use within your mental arsenal. Solace. Taking from the energy around you, you shift gears into manipulating the psionic energy more mentally. Yes, you realize that that’s a but of an ironic way of describing it, but you’re the division’s leader so you can call it whatever you want.

Taking more of your Focus you channel that raw energy into something… internal. Even just coming to your basic understanding of this ability, you start to realize just how versatile psionics truly is. It doesn’t have to merely be brute strength or the bending of reality to your will, which while a benefit you can understand the benefits of Solace.

You realize immediately that you can choose how you use the ability, it’s not merely an on or off switch. The simplest way of using it would likely be to be completely internal and just for yourself. A mental pick me up of sorts when you get frazzled in the chaos of combat. Moving up, it would be transfering that ability to someone, which would be Loki in this sense. Finally… maybe you could make some sort of area of effect? That would certainly be a mental strain on your faculties, but it would be the most beneficial for everyone. Each obviously would take more Focus.

If you had to guess how much mental fuel was left in the tank, it’d be around just under half, Focus.

>Internal Solace. Least Focus. (TN: 25)
>Touch range Solace with Loki. Moderate Focus (TN 45)
>AOE Solace. Most Focus (TN 30-55)
>Other (TN ???)

>>2814634
>>AOE Solace. Most Focus (TN 30-55)

>>2814597
True that.

Makes me wonder if we can counter Loco's pheromones with it, or in other ways affect it..

>>2814606
Might actually be good. I believe that Loco, the psycho that she is, may actually vastly improve her team effectiveness with murderous intent

>>2814634
>AOE

>>2814634
>AOE Solace. Most Focus (TN 30-55)

>>2814634
>AOE Solace. Most Focus (TN 30-55)

>>2814634
>>Touch range Solace with Loki. Moderate Focus (TN 45)
one on one first to test it out on someone else, before potentially subjugating others to the same effect without warning.

>>2814634
>>AOE Solace. Most Focus (TN 30-55)
Be prepared to affect a lot of people if things go wrong.

>>2814634
>AOE Solace. Most Focus (TN 30-55)

>>2814634
>Touch range Solace with Loki. Moderate Focus (TN 45)
Except actually warning her this time would be polite.

>>2814634
>AOE Solace. Most Focus (TN 30-55)

>>2814634
>AOE Solace. Most Focus (TN 30-55)
Touch range ain't good enough.

>>2814642
>>2814643
>>2814650
>>2814652
>>2814660
>>2814663
>>2814703
>>2814714
AOE it is, writing!

>>2814677
Good point

“Heads up.” You announce to Loki, making a point to actually warn her this time. You see her tense up at your words. “You should like this, though.”

“We’ll see…” Loki murmurs, still expecting you to pull a fast one on her.

You steady your breathing and pull in the energy around you within you. Willing the very idea of a calm and focused mind to affect those in the area around you. And then you feel it. In the process of casting the spell, you feel the effects of Solace as it expands out from within you.

Like a cleansing wave, you feel all of your doubts, frustrations, and… most surprisingly, your anger. That power within you temporarily snuffed out.

For most people, this is a boon. But to you, this could be a problem Who would’ve thought being calm could be an issue. However, you can’t lose your concentration as who knows what could happen. Pressing that all aside, you just focus on expanding out the area of influence of Solace…

>Roll 1d100 (TN 30-55)

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>2814815

Time for either unbridled anger, or mind melting pleasure. Heaven or Hell?

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>2814815

Rolled 27 (1d100)

>>2814815

As concerning as losing the lack of what defines you throwing you off, you don’t stop the process in casting the ability. Around you, a circular ring of energy expands outwards, a visual representation of where your net can extend to. To be sure, you ‘tune’ said ring into transparency and it thankfully fades away. You don’t particularly want the aliens to know where your exact position is, after all. For the sake of knowing the range, you tune it back in.

Loki begins to take a step back, concerned. She hesitates however and instead just lets whatever is happening happen to her. As soon as she fully enters within the ring of influence, her eyes widen again but instead of shock, she lets out a visible sigh of relief.

“Hah…” Loki shudders for a moment feeling a look of ease. However, instead of being overtly effected like those under the effects of say Loco’s Adrenal Neurosympathy Loki seems in full control of her faculties. “You are right, I do like this. If I could suggest anything you should keep using this ability at all times if you can.”

“I don’t know about that last part, but that’s good to hear.” You relax as well, unsure of whether it’s of your own success in casting the ability or the ability itself. You suppose it doesn’t matter.

Stepping a few steps forward or backwards confirms that Solace is like an aura anchored to you. It’s a gradual Focus drain over time but it’d would technically be considered something you can just leave passively once you properly cast it. If it wasn’t for the constant drain of your Focus, it might be an upgrade of Loco’s gene mod, though you of all people understand the sometimes you need something more primal to get the job done.

Not that you’d ever say that to her face.

You finish casting Solace, much to the disappointment of Loki. Taking a moment to gauge how capable you are for more practice, you note you are about a 1/4th of Focus left in the tank. You could push yourself a little further and really get a productive day of training. But, maybe pacing yourself is a better idea…?

>Keep training a bit longer.
>Finish training for now.
>Other

>>2814905
>>Finish training for now.

>>2814905
>>Keep training a bit longer.
There is no need to not spend all the focus per day. its not as if we would have any use for it for the rest of the day, so unused focus would be a waste of potential training. There are still many other branches to explore, or even simply making Juggernaut more efficient to maintain.

>>2814905
>Finish training for now.

Maybe get Loki to try to describe being under Solace.

>>2814905
Keep at it a bit longer

>>2814905
>Finish training for now.
We've taxed it enough, and it seems that blowing it all results in a longer downtime than normal.

>>2814942
>It feels like being headpatted

>>2814905
>>Finish training for now.

>>2814951
>Dozer casts Solace.
>Get headpats from the Commander at the same time.

>>2814951
>>2814971
Full power Solace could also be sort of like achieving enlightenment.

>>2814914
>>2814942
>>2814944
>>2814968

Finishing up training her, writing! This will be the last post for tonight!

While you’re eager to keep going, you can already feel your fatigue setting in. You’re not even in combat, and you can already feel how bad overextending with psionics can be. Hell, your entire normal schedule has completely gone off track just from the strain of the last battle. And, you only used a single ability!

“I’m done for now.” You decide, letting out a few breaths as you save the last of your remaining Focus.

“That was a short training bout.” Loki says. “But, a productive one if I do say.”

“Yeah, I got more toys to play with now.” You agree, satisfied. Finally coming down properly from the psionics you feel pretty mentally drained. “It’s a brain workout, though.”

“I can see that. I’m surprised you managed to stay awake so long last time” Loki comments, idly tapping her chin.

“Hah! Same here. I don’t want to screw my sleeping schedule even further, Strike-1 will look bad at this rate.”

“We wouldn't want that.” Loki chuckles.

Finished, the two of you take your leave of the hollowed out room. Neither of you meet anybody on the way back to the elevator, which is a positive for future training sessions of your Gift. A heads up to the Commander or Security Chief Ingram to steer folks away would be perfect. A bit of sprucing up and you can have a proper psionic training area.

You’re satisfied with your progress so far, and it seems Loki knows it as you both board the main elevator. There’s already a few folks already on the lift with you. It’s mostly hardhats but there’s a pair of troopers as well. The troopers seem to be doing all the heavy lifting while the engineers are more laid back, chatting casually among one another.

“Dozer, you should not make it too obvious you’re in a good mood right now.” Loki warns.

“What, why?”

(Part 1 / 3)

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Before Loki can explain herself, the two troopers finish setting a number of heavy boxes down onto a loading area on the side of the elevator. They step back, letting out breaths of relief from setting down the heavy load. As the pair turn around, you realize that it’s Jimmy and another soldier. The other guy notices you and Loki and taps Jimmy’s shoulder.

“Whew! That wasn’t so bad now was it Q-Tip, eh?” Jimmy pauses as he spots you. “Oh hey! If it isn’t Dozer and the ever mysterious Loki!” Jimmy grins, greeting you heartily.

Oh right, that’s Q-Tip. You really can’t tell it’s him without that gas mask he wears. He has a very plain face that could just easily blend into a crowd. Q-Tip nods curtly to you both in acknowledgement. You also note Loki immediately returning back to her guarded persona.

“Heya, Jimmy. Q-Tip.” You say, returning the greeting the South African Gunner with a fistbump. “Why were you carrying all those boxes?”

“Ahah... I got into a little disagreement with Strike-2’s Squad Lead.” Jimmy laughs, sheepishly. “He’s a Gunner in case you forget. Anyways, given that me and him happen to share the same love of big machine guns we just started chatting a bit. Convo meandered a bit until we started discussing about what’s better, an LMG or a SAW… things got a bit heated.”

“They got into a brawl.” Q-Tip clarifies.

“You both went into a brawl over... that?” Loki raises an eyebrow.

“It was more like a small scuffle even if Sweaters didn't think so!” Jimmy exclaims, defending himself. “We both… just forgot that the LMG versus SAW was a rather divisive talking among Gunners! Honestly, I got the better end of the deal, Ghost’s stuck cleaning the bathrooms. Hah!”

“Why is Q-Tip stuck doing punishment duty with you then?” Loki asks, curious. Rather intent to keep steering the conversation this way.

“I volunteered, ma’am.” Q-Tip says.
“Q-Tip’s a proper mate!” Jimmy laughs, before pausing. A thought occurred to him “...Say, why are you two down in the lower levels anyways?”

“I--” You stop. You can’t actually say what you were doing. “...I can’t say.”

At that, Loki closes her eyes. She hums quietly to herself in frustration.

There’s a moment of silence before a look of realization seems to Jimmy as he looks at both you and your tired state… and then at Loki. It’s then he begins to laugh again, and there’s proper amusement in his voice.

Oh no. It's then you realized you just fucked up.

(Part 2 / 3)

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“Oho! I see how it is then!” Jimmy grins widely, jumping straight to conclusions. “You both needed to find somewhere private to relieve some stress, eh? ”

“No it’s--” Fuck! You can’t say it!

Loki just silently facepalms as you make it worse.

“Both of your secrets are safe with me, that’s a promise from squad leader to squad leader, though I can’t promise Q-Tip keeping his mouth shut!” Jimmy winks.

“Yes I ca--” Q-Tip is immediately interrupted by Jimmy.

“I’ll try and keep Q-Tip in check, you two just enjoy yourselves!” Jimmy says, completely fine with this outcome.

The elevator blissfully arrives back on the main floor and Jimmy takes his leave, Q-Tip following in tow. Both you and Loki just stand there, letting it sink in.

“I’m going to go elsewhere, it’s best we aren’t seen together before rumors escalate.” Loki says as she begins to leave. She pauses for a moment and adds, “It was enjoyable otherwise.”

“Same. See you around.” You say, giving her an apologetic look. She leaves without wasting any more time, rumors do spread extremely fucking fast in this underground base. At least Strike-1 will understand if it gets out. So there’s that.

...

Such is life in XCOM.

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>...And with that I'm going to call it here for tonight! I think I've been slowing down with my update speed over time and I fear I might be losing some readers, so I might throw up a vote on whether I should make shorter updates going forward. Besides that I hope the wait wasn't too bad. So until next time...

Thanks for playing!

>>2815052
Great. Now we known as a fucking womanizer even if Dozer actually are a one huge virgin

>>2815052

Thanks for the run, boss!

>>2815060
It definitely does not help that Solace essentially puts a bit of spring in everyone's step like they just came back from sex.

>>2815052
>TFW Dozer has to do Solace sessions with every squad member to both practice and to test how each person would react to it.
>with guys included
>and sometimes multiple people at a time too
In the future, perhaps spending an hour near Dozer's Solace meditation sessions can be called Happy Hour

>>2815068
>Rumours of Dozer becoming something along the lines of the Strike-1 bicycle starts to circulate due to how good he makes everyone feel just by being near him.

I love Q-Tip, please don't let him die.

Lol, didnt even see it coming myself, would have jumped in with both legs like Dozer did... awesome run. My opinion of Loki has gone way up, couldnt bring myself to be interested in her before

>>2815057
>and I fear I might be losing some readers,
I wouldn't think so per se. Joker Quest had a huge hiatus, as did the GuP quest between 1 and 2, but the players jumped right back in when those quests continued.

>>2815089
Yeah, it's nice to have the other XCOM staff and rival teams around.

Speaking of which, do you think we can do the impossible and calm Loco down with our Solace which may possibly result in a complete personality change for her when she is completely relaxed?

It would at the very least be an interesting experiment on how our new abilities would affect each other.

>>2815132
If it means more interaction with Loco, im all for it!

>>2815132
We should try it.

>>2815132
>calm Loco down with our Solace which may possibly result in a complete personality change for her when she is completely relaxed?
We can do a mellow battle with Loco, her gene mod against our Solace.

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>>2815154
A battle of lewds?

>>2815057
>I think I've been slowing down with my update speed over time and I fear I might be losing some readers

I just need to go to sleep for the later votes. I like your quest but I don't like it enough to stay up until 3am to get those last few votes in.

>>2815057
Less that, more I actually need sleep and you run 3-5 in the morning.

>>2815132
>Mellow Loco has a complete image and personality change
>becomes what is essentially mommander 2.0

>>2815132
That sounds like that's gonna need a roll of 90 to even affect Loco.

>>2815060
Dozer is clearly the mythical virgin Chad.

>>2815303
We have great successes with Psionics before, so its not impossible. I think Dozer's Anger and Loco's battle-craziness could potentially connect well psionically.

>>2815290
>>2815154
>>2815132

I think the mere sight of calm, relaxed Loco would be scarier than any Alien we encountered thus far.

At least she won't see her change so much that she'll put on a long skirt.

>>2815057
I had actually crashed before the last post so it's more time zone kinda thing.

>>2815415
literally The Wizard

I think in the near future we should visit the science lab and use Solace on Vahlen and the muton prisoner. Might learn something.

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>>2816760
Just be careful that we don't develop an out of context reputation for 'making people feel really good'.

Last thing we need is for someone to see Vahlen with her hair let loose, and walking like she just came back from something that put her in a good mood.

>>2816939
There's going to be an instance where the Commander is stressed out due to all of the bullshit she has to deal with and we use Solace on her, which will just reinvigorate the already ridiculous rumors isn't there?

>>2816990
It would be worth it tenfold.

>>2816939
>>2816990
>>2817016

I swear the staff will think Dozer is some sort of goddamn sexual tyrannosaurus able to satisfy men, and women with his "secret trick" that everyone will have difficulty in describing (which will add on to the rumours).

>>2817038
I imagine once we start screening people the Psionics division will start becoming public knowledge in not too long.

>>2817110
No. When we start screening we don't need to tell them what we're looking for. In fact we could be behind a one-way mirror so the other side doesn't know we're even looking as they go through a 'perfectly normal psychological evaluation' thing with a real therapist of something.

>>2817130
I mean after we actually find people and the Commander signs off on it.

>>2817135
Why would finding more people and getting approval mean going public? She could easily continue to make sure every recruit knows psionics is classified and not to be exposed until further notice or something.

>>2817326
Because those candidates might be from other squads who need to fill their Strike teams in on their capabilities like we did with Strike-1.

At that point I don't see the need for secrecy. It'd be quite a morale boost too.

>>2817016
Oh I have no issue with it personally considering I want Commander to win the Dozerbowl

>>2817348
Telling a few relaed squads is not going public. They could be told to keep things classified as well.

There are plenty of reasons for people to fear and detest mind powers to make Psionics a source of Morale. Think about Zhang's reaction, and what other people like him would think about it, and what people in power would want with such powers. It's all too easy for there to be people that would want information on Psionics for the wrong reasons (hint:EXALT), and as such information security is important to keep the project running without potential interruptions or delays. In the end, whether or not Psionics goes public is not up to us anyways, but our superiors.

>>2815438
Naw we need to see more of batshit Loco for it to really impact when she's more normal

>>2817405
If the Council has Psi-sensors they know that there was another psion last mission.

>>2817038
>difficulty in describing

>"I heard when Dozer performs, it feels like your very soul is being attains Nirvana"

>>2819451
Aight I keked. Cheers for that

>>2817038
>It’s a mind-blowing experience.
>He can do it with several persons at the same time.

>>2817038
I’m pretty sure Loki will make it sound as innuendos about our power as lewdy as practically possible just to fuck with their heads.

>>2817038
How about men, women AND Mutons ?

>>2822310
And goats. Don't forget Billy.

>>2822318
Meeeeeh.

>>2822329
We still have to test Billy for psionic potential.

>>2822566
I hope he ends up becoming Dozer's 2nd in command in the psi corps

>>2822709
Final test for all Psi troopers is to make Billy fall asleep via Psionics.

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While you may have been mentally exhausted from your psionic training, you still have more than enough energy to do things while you’re up and about. You don’t want to lie about in bed and would like to keep moving around.

Several things come to mind as you wander about through the base, maneuvering and weaving around busy staff as go through the corridors. Nobody is stopping you from your seeming idleness, focused on their own tasks. Things to do pop in your mind as you walk about.

You still have some Focus left and if you want you can attempt to start psionically screening your squad. You’ll probably mentally check out afterwards but you’d have a very productive day in that front. Hopefully you don’t pass out. Again.

Next, if your own sleep schedule is anything, you’ve probably become rusty in your training. You’ve always been for keeping up with PT and you really haven’t. It’s probably not that bad, but hitting the weights or the shooting range is never a bad thing.

XCOM remains busy as ever in all fronts. Each of the major departments that comprise the organization are all working around the clock. You have good standing with Shen and Vahlen, and you’re sure they’d appreciate your assistance. Giving a report of your progress to the Commander is also a good usage of your time, you’re technically a department lead yourself as well.

Last and certainly not least is to just take it easy. Do you really need to push yourself too much, after all? Keeping high morale is not to be understated and the barracks provides a lot of things to entertain the troops. You’re likely to bump into one or more of your squadmates to socialize with. There’s also the other XCOM troopers. You’d like to think your team synergy is good but there's nothing wrong with catching up with how other Strike teams have been up to. It pays to not be a stranger. In fact, maybe you can be the one soldier who can actually tame and claim Billy the Goat. He’s essentially been sought after by all of the Strike Teams to be their squad’s mascot, but nobody has been deemed worthy by the Goat. A herculean challenge indeed and one that’s definitely keeping a friendly rivalry among the squads.

How do you spend the rest of your day?

>Start psionically screening your team.
>Get back training.
>Visit one of the XCOM departments
>Kick back in the barracks.
>Other

>>2823807
>kick back in the barracks
Crossing fingers for interaction with Loco

>>2823807
>Visit one of the XCOM departments
I'm voting for science lab again.

>>2823807
>>Get back training.
Oh no, Rusty? Say it ain't so! No getting soft and out of shape Dozer! He's trained his mind, and now time for his body!

>>2823807
>>Get back training.

>>2823829
Truly, the horrors of Mellow Loco would be the reason why we no longer use Solace willy nilly.

>>2823807
>Get back training

>>2823807
>>Get back training.

>>2823807
>>Get back training.
Probably a good Idea to be at full psi power for screening don't want to fry one of them or have them go out of control and then not have any way to restrain them.

>>2823807
>>Get back training

>>2823807
>Kick back in the barracks.

>>2823807
>>Kick back in the barracks.

>>2823807
>Get back training.
Once we regain our focus we really should get around to psi screening.

>>2823807
>Get back training.

>>2823807
>Start psionically screening your team.
We need to do this sooner or later.

>>2823807
>Get back training

>>2823807
>>Kick back in the barracks with Loco.

>>2823807
>>Get back training.
TRAINING MONTAGE GO!

>>2823807
>Get back training.
I hope we'll have enough time to do the screening after some training.

Calling the vote here!

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>>2824893
>>>Get back training.
Lmao

>>2825366
Please, if you post /fit/ memes, at least post a pic not for ants.

>>2825471
Maybe you should train your eyes then.

Since you had spent time already training your psionic abilities, you figure you might as well go all the way and really get back into shape. While that includes hitting the gym, there’s also the firing range and, if so desired, the Officer Training School.

The gym is rather straightforward, with your usual assortment of equipment. It’s one of the most frequented places for an XCOM trooper if you don’t count the bar. There’s the weights obviously, but one really shouldn’t skip cardio, and you can always get a sparring match going on.

The firing range, as Peppermint had insisted a while back, shouldn’t be discounted even for an Assault. Somewhat recently a new space was opened up for MECs to practice. While there’s a huge appeal in watching MEC suits wrestle, it’s also being used as an obstacle course and mock firefights.

Finally, there’s the Officer Training School. Yes, you are mentally fatigued, but you’ll be able to brush up and improve your tactics. You haven’t made a major screw up yet, but the OTS is there for a reason. From improving your assessment of combat scenarios, to just interacting with other Squad Leaders, you can’t go wrong spending time there. You don’t want to fail your squad in your leadership.

Where do you go?

>Gym
>Firing Range
>OTS
>Other

>>2827472
>>OTS

Always nice to see the other squads around base.

>>2827472
>>Gym
We voted for training because Dozer's body is slacking, not his mind. He needs a good workout and stay in shape after a day of mentally fatiguing psi-training,

>>2827472
>OTS
Because remember Vegas. We don’t wanna fuck up like this again.

>>2827472
>Gym

>>2827479
>You haven’t made a major screw up yet
Bad rolls are what happened, not bad decisions. Besides, realistically OTS does little to nothing for making good decisions, since that part is completely on anons actually voting for the right option, or making good write-in plans.

>>2827483
We might get a bonus to rolls if we go to OTS often enough. Like 1d100+6 instead of 1d100+5

>>2827483
There's a chance the possible TN success rate band could go down as one of the bonuses, for example!

>>2827472
>>OTS
We know the consequences of one mistake as a Actual. Let's improve ourselves as a Officer.

>>2827472
>Firing Range
Watch Rachel wrestling and cheer her on!

>>2827485
The same can be said for Gym training. At least it makes more sense to train the body after a day of training the mind than to try to do more mental stuff.

>>2827472
>>Gym

>>2827489
Dozer is a mental Tyrannosaur, he can easily take a little OTS. And info what happened on the other squads missions is vital.

>>2827491
mental Tyrannosaur? If that was true then people wouldn't have voted to stop the psi-training. Besides, what little mental energy he has left would make OTS training inefficient, while not training his body would waste his physical energy. That, and not training his body would make picking the training option obsolete, since the reason why it was picked to begin with is due to Dozer's own judgement that his body is becoming 'rusty', which is unacceptable for an Assault class.

>>2827472
>Gym
Time to get swole.

>>2827472
>OTS
We are going to be using our psionics in battle - we need to be able to handle being a squad leader when we are drained like this.

>>2827502
>which is unacceptable for an Assault class.
He is a Psionic Actual . His role in the squad is less reliant on physical alone than the average Assault.
Take a strong coffee and let's go.

>Other
MEC Cavalry training. Lets formalize some tactics for squaddies to ride MECs into battle/take cover behind MECs/use MEC assists to traverse terrain.

>>2827510
>He is a Psionic Actual . His role in the squad is less reliant on physical alone than the average Assault.
I would've loved it if more people agreed, but no, he doesn't get to spend every single last bit of Focus on psi-training. Instead, it was voted that he needs to use his time on other things, things that we do now, like not more mental things when he is "mentally exhausted from your psionic training".

As for the coffee, even Dozer himself admits his sleep cycle is part of why he has become rusty, so he should finish the day in the gym then go to sleep, and not try to stay awake unnecessarily and ruin his body further.

>>2827472
>>Firing Range
Because this is XCOM where 75% is likely a miss.

>>2827522
>"mentally exhausted from your psionic training".
Don't "quote" Pixel and then change words around. Really, don't. Pixel said "fatigued", not exhausted.

>>2827472
>Gym

>>2827472
>OTS. We need to live up to our position.
Firing range really isnt all that important to an assault truthfully.

>>2827472
>Firing range
Let's see if we can see Rachel in the Battle bot arena.

>>2827472
>>Firing Range

>>2827597
Maybe there is a MEC sumo wrestling match going on.

>>2827597
>>2827631
Could always be like one of those robot boxing matches, or for the more comical, Rock'em Sock'em Robots.

>>2827472
>Firing Range

>>2827546
I don't understand what you mean at all. How and when do I change anything when I directly quote him? All I did was find the most appropriate line to use. if you have no further arguments then stay quiet.

>>2827836
>All I did was find the most appropriate line to use.
You cherrypicked the line that suited your narrative the best. And aggressively trying to censor me, who do you think you are ?

>>2827898
I don't know about him but I'm the fucking Batman

>>2827898
>And aggressively trying to censor me

Him telling you to shut up if you're going to keep being retarded isn't him censoring you Mr. persecution complex. You can obviously still post sadly.

Omg will you guys stop arguing, every post makes me think there's an update

>>2827987
Vote hasn't even been called yet. You're going to be waiting at least another 12 hours.

Calling the vote here!

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Rolled 1 (1d3)

So, I finally got myself some time to write the update and holy hell this is a THREE way tie with five votes each! So, for I think the very first time, I'm going to do a roll off to decide things!

>1. Gym
>2. Firing Range
>3. OTS

Rolled 2 (1d3)

>>2829149

>>2829154
No need to do the roll, chum, I did it myself already so we somehow don't have a freak RNG incident with another tie. If we somehow get more ties I'll just do the tiebreaker myself.

Anyways, I'm writing the update now, so please wait warmly for just a bit longer!

>>2829149
Fuck yes! Time for a SICK GAINS.
We going full /fitlit/ mode.

>>2829149
>gym wins
Based dice gods

>>2829165
Time for MUSCLE WIZARD.

>>2829169
Praise Zyzz!

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You stop in the middle of the hallway, and take pause. The gym, firing range, and OTS are all valuable uses of your time. You mentally start to juggle between all three of the places, weighing the merits of each.You furrow your brow, crossing your arms and stare at the ground, thinking.

“I’m probably a bit out of shape so getting in some gym time would be good. But, I could polish up my aim at the range. Though, isn’t it more important to brush up on my tactics in the OTS? Yet, if I’m slow and sluggish without going to the gym I'll… but the range… and the OTS…”

“...Dozer?”

“Agh!” You are caught off guard, as someone speaks up.

You look up, and see a concerned looking Harita standing in front of you. Her head is tilted in puzzlement, her twin braids hand in a way which reminds you of a tipping scale.

“Are you alright?” Harita says. “You're just standing in the middle of the hallway, muttering to yourself.”

You look about and note you’re causing a bit of slowdown in the traffic as people have to walk around both you and Harita. Oops.

“Sorry!” You mutter to the annoyed staff, before moving out of the way. Harita follows, getting more worried as you act stranger to her.

“...Are you sick?” Harita presses before pausing and lowering her voice. “Or, is it because of your… ‘thing’?”

“Thin-” You immediately wince, thinking back to what you had just endured in the elevator. “--No, it’s not that. I can’t decide where to go between the gym, firing range, and OTS.”

“Ah.” Harita nods slowly. “Do you want some help deciding?”

“Please.”

“How about the gym? I was actually heading there already so…” Harita trails off. “You can join me, if you want.”

“Sure, works for me. I’ve been apparently struck with sudden bout of indecision so you came in at the right time.” You sigh, shaking your head. You don’t know what came over you, it must have been the psionics training you’ve done.

A decision properly made, you and Harita begin to head towards the gym. Upon arrival, you and Harita take a look about the various machines and gym equipment arrayed for XCOM’s staff. While it’s mostly for the soldiers, it’s not uncommon to see the occasional scientist or mission control analyst getting a work out.

...You’d hope not after what happened in the elevator.

“I’ll get us some towels, and I’ll just join whatever you decide.” Harita says, before pausing. “Unless, um, you need some further help-”

“I got it, thanks.” You reassure her.

You hope.

There’s getting some strength training with weights and the like, working on cardio at the treadmill, and… yoga. The Commander’s idea, of all things, and a recent one at that. It’s quickly become a favorite among the women and some of the men in the base. Vahlen had shown up for a yoga class exactly one time and never returned, much to the disappointment of the Commander. Skyranger pilot Big Sky is apparently pretty good at yoga too. Maybe there’s some merit to that…?

Hm.

>Strength.
>Cardio.
>...Yoga.
>Other.

>>2829184
>Fuck it, let's do all three
A healthy mind needs a healthy body.

>>2829184
>>...Yoga.
Oh shit, Yoga, the practice of spiritual discipline, and the connection and control of the body and mind. This is perfect for a Psi-trooper!

Totally not doing it cuz the commander is there or anything...

>>2829184
>Yoga

>>2829184
>>Cardio

>>2829184
Cardio
Im hoping Dozer's juggernaut works like a multiplier to his physical parameters, that would mean that even small increasements in muscle mass or endurance would make a difference!

>>2829184
>Strength
DO YOU EVEN LIFT, BRO?!

>>2829198
>>2829199
Changing vote to
>SICK GAINS

>>2829184
All three if it's an option. If not, go for strength training.

>>2829184
>Cardio.

>>2829184
>>...Yoga.
I hear that Momander is a Yoga enthusiast ?

>>2829184
>>...Yoga.

>>2829184
>>...Yoga.
Why the hell not.

>All those yoga fags
You damn pervs do it just to stare at a _____Dozer’s ass, don’t ya? Shame on you!

>>2829237
I have been denied my cyborg waifu so yes, yes I am voting for dozer to do rage stretches

>>2829184
>>Strength.

>>2829238
Well, I have been craving for best boy, so what?

>>2829184
>...Yoga.

>>2829237
Obviously they want Dozer to stare at Harita's ass since she promised to do the same thing we're doing

>>2829259
Well then, I bet it will be other way around. Hell, everybody will stare at Dozer’s delicious booty.

>>2829298
But is Loco banned from yoga class due to her new aura ?

>>2829305
Is Loco even that memorable of a character? I mean I think we met her once, and I forget what her role is.

>>2829184
>...Yoga.

>>2829311
To me it's a matter of type preferance, the demo of her was enough to convince me that i'd like to see more of her.
Each to his own I guess

>>2829328
Eh, she just seems like insane stereotype x rather than a character. Like her implants themselves are interesting, her character? Less so.

>>2829334
Im not all that interested in the mod - sure it's cool to have though. I like the potential of the fluff part though.
But to me it's more her character that's interesting. I like the crazy types. And yeah sure, i can see how she seems like a stereotype rather than a character to you, but isnt that exactly because we only had brief interaction? Pretty sure Pixel can write a decent character for her given time

>>2829184
>...Yoga.

>>2829355
>Pretty sure Pixel can write a decent character for her given time.
Easy. How do the others in her squad view her ? (Wat squad is she in anyway )

>>2829610
I think she might be pretty chill dudette, but a complete tease with penchant of cheating (remeber how she stole OUR CHAMPION belt!)

>>2829628
I remember well and fondly. 10/10, would get tricked again.

>>2829184
>>...Yoga.
Being flexible might not be so bad

>>2829184
>...Yoga.
We must find our center.

Calling the vote here, next post will probably be the last post for this thread!

>these yogafags
disgusting

>>2830612
I don't think Dozer'll be drinking onions lattes anytime soon.

>>2830612
I didn't get the opportunity to vote, but I'm glad we picked yoga. The idea of Dozer- the rage filled cqc sitting around and doing yoga is great.

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>>2830639
Dozer's gonna be so Zen. Solace, yoga if XCOM doesn't pan out he could become a monk.

>>2830653
OH! Dozer should turn on Solace while doing Yoga! The results of that would be worth recording! Everyone totally focused and completely in control of their body!

>>2830670

I just hope they don't get hooked on Solace. It would definitely be a cure all for stress related ailments.

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Hey guys, I'm going to be real here. I was hoping to get an update out but I've been staring at my document for like two hours and I've barely made a few paragraphs. As you may have noticed updates over the week have really slowed down, both due to business and just more writers block. I really wanted to make a decent end to the thread, but it's not coming to me.

So, I think I'm going to take the weekend off and not run a new thread. I'll throw up one sometime over the week and we'll fly casual until we sync back up by next Friday. Really big apologies, but I really want to do XCOM right and this week has been a poor showing! I hope you guys understand. I refuse to drop this quest as I stand determined to make a proper XCOM Quest that will finish and not just die like the many other attempts before.

To compensate, I'm going to be open to answer questions for as long as this thread's up, and I'll do my best to answer them if it's not spoilers.

>>2831306
Thanks for powering through, It's been great honestly

Also, Do you read any other quests at the moment, Do you have a favourite?

>>2831306
Its okay. Good luck with writers block

I have a question though - What is a real Dozer name?

>>2831306
Thank you for sticking to it. I'll keep reading (and participating when timezones allow) as long as you'll keep running the quest.

>>2831334
A Anonsson

>>2831306
You do you. Thanks for running, really enjoyed it.

>>2831306
Wouldnt want it any different.

Do you loosely keep tabs on what the other teams are doing and what they have experienced?

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>>2831324
I was reading FUCK Quest before it finished its current 'season', and man that was a ride. I envy that QM's dedication and sheer effort he puts into his stuff for a smut quest of all things.

I read MercCommand Quests, but I've been out of the loop on his recent stuff due to running this quest, you may notice some crossover from his current quest and my own! There's another quest that also has a cameo of one of characters from another good QM friend of mine too.

My favorite quest, as a whole, is definitely between FUCK Quest for how crazy it gets and Cyberpunk Idol Management Quest, an older Merc Quest that got me into questing in general.

>>2831334
I WAS going to say this eventually but, I definitely do feel bad stopping short so I'll say it now.

Spoiler warning!

___Nick Walker___

>>2831365
Oh yeah, there's definitely a general timeline for things as a whole as the story progresses and the war ramps up. I keep actual socializing with teams to basically Jimmy's team and Hornet's. And more on Jimmy since you guys already established a relationship through surviving Gangplank together.

Loco, Q-Tip, and Gloria (The other MEC that is friends with Rachel) are all together in the same squad for convenience sake. If you guys get to know more troopers or more get recruited over time they'll probably slot in Jimmy's team. Think of them as the 'Other Guys'. They're a more generalized squad like Strike-1 and can deploy to most missions.

Hornet is more just her by herself and maybe one at most two other squad mates I've yet to introduce and they're a third team for more neutral choices / a third opinion on things. Hornet's Strike-Team specializes in clearing UFO Crash Sites and more recently Capture Duty, as that's the best place to nab aliens. Hornet hates Outsiders but likely has the highest killcount on the things even despite being a Medic.

>>2831402
Oh just to clarify. Jimmy's team has Loco, Q-Tip, and Gloria if that wasn't clear.

>>2831409
Coolio, solid decision i think. By the by, was Loco more of a heavy type class or an infantry type?

>>2831409

It's always fun to have a rival team that's either friendly, or kind of a dick.

>>2831306
Does having a bald head enhance psychic powers?

>>2831556
Only if you are a Sectoid.

>>2831416
Did Pixel say during Gangplank that she was infantry ?

>>2831616
She is, yes.

>>2831616
>>2831621
Neat, that's one if my favorite classes for my favorite npc

>>2813689
If it makes you feel any better, Pixel, XCOM Trooper Quest is one of the highest-ranking.
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html

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>>2831999
It is uplifting, but I don't want to get it into my head! I really overthought the color rankingsin the archive a bit too much back in the beginning!

I might still a bit.

>>2832509
don'T worry this is one fo the best quests and i really like it so far

>>2832509
While some, myself included, originally knew you for the art you did for Merc, planefag, etc..., I think your quest stands on its own merit. Considering that your quest is one of the most successful on the board, clearly others agree.
Don’t sell yourself short Pixel, you’re a great QM.

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If writer's block keeps stalking you, there's always the option of a "Bad End"or mid-game ending like some games have.

Aliens assault the Anthill/Alien Mothership crashes into it, Dozer fends off the attack and succumbs to his wounds amidst a lot of alien corpses.

>>2842446
No, and anon.

>>2842446
I don't know about you but I think making next thread's OP "Alien mothership falls from the sky and everyone in XCOM base dies. The end. Thanks for participating." would be a bad idea even if he wanted to end the quest.

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You guys are great. Good words mean a lot more on 4chan than anywhere else! Rest assured, I don't want to end the quest prematurely.

I've decided for the sake of keeping the schedule consistent I'm going to start things back up again on Friday at the usual time!

>>2843809
You'll probably be glad to know your quest has been not only enjoyable to me, but also helpful - recently finished a temp job that i really only did out of necessity, and looking forward to reading your quest on the bus monday morning helped get me in a better mood for the day