>>3000444
“Yup,” you acknowledge freely. For all your skill, Breecha had demonstrated she was on a whole different level. “Although I wonder if that’s why you've set the game up so people have to defeat you first…”

“Pft. That?” She almost laughs. “That’s just for a bit of sport. Wasn’t lying when I said I was good. Anyway, we’re here.” The circus trailer is a bit wider and longer than the usual fare, a flashy yellow and purple with ‘Shooting Star Carnival!’ in flowing, starry script on the side. You can hear voices from inside. “Lemme explain things, kay?” Knocking on the door, you hear some grunts and a confirmation before the door is thrown open, and a rather portly fellow with a surprisingly well fitting three piece suit and curved shoes comes out. All he’s missing is the top hat, as his short hair is in a mess. His face is red for whatever reason, and while he appears surprised, the anger only stays on his face for moments before it’s replaced with confusion. “Wallacia? What’s the meaning of this interruption?”

“Well!” Wallacia for her part seems rather giddy now. “Sorry, boss! Just, y’know, someone beat the competition, yeah? They wanted the prize now, though, can’t wait too long. Family things, y’know?”

His face squints in confusion before looking down at you. Like before, you’re surprised that he doesn’t seem to show much reaction to you before a quick jump as you meet his eyes. “Ah! Well, ah, I can’t say I don’t understand having a schedule...hmm…well.” He lets out a wheezing sigh. “I suppose it’s a good thing we’ve already prepared one, then.”

“Wait, ya have? I thought these were made special?” Wallacia notes.

“Usually, yes, but our last performance-” He cuts himself off, looking back at you warily. “Well, simply put, we found ourselves with the ability to make a spare. They may have that one. Just a few moments! Now where DID that blasted thing go...”

Wallacia just shrugs as he trundles off. “He’s a nice fella, but...boy oh boy, he’s always focused on the show. Would forget ‘is own head sometimes, I swear. But, me n’ all the core folks love him anyways. Even the rougher folk ‘round here are behind ‘im.”

>Ask her about the ‘special reward’ now. Just what IS it?
>Ask about the ‘core folks’. That bandaged man- Zarius, was one?
>Ask about her about the history of the carnival itself.
>Other

>>3000448
>Ask about her about the history of the carnival itself.

>>3000448
>>Ask about her about the history of the carnival itself.

>>3000448
>Ask about her about the history of the carnival itself.

>>3000448
>Ask about the ‘core folks’. That bandaged man- Zarius, was one?

>>3000448
>Other
Twiddle thumbs

>>3000448
>Ask her about the ‘special reward’ now. Just what IS it?

>>3000448
>Ask about the ‘core folks’. That bandaged man- Zarius, was one?
>Ask her about the ‘special reward’ now. Just what IS it?

>>3000448
>Ask about her about the history of the carnival itself.

>>3000448
>>Ask about the ‘core folks’. That bandaged man- Zarius, was one?

Finally archived the last thread. Also Fanart is up on Twitter. Run will be later today. Not sure when, probably in about 2ish hours.

>>3001719
Awesome!

>>3000448
>>3000461
>>3000471
>>3000481
>>3000718
“So, how’d this carnival even get started?” you ask idly. It’s mostly just making conversation, but you can’t help but be at least a touch curious, especially considering that dangerous-smelling man. “What’s the history behind it?”

“Oh? Well, it was originally just a travelin’ showcase, y’know? Jus’ a way to bring stuff from one place to another, get folks to experience somethin’ new, right? It’s why they travel so much. Like I said, part of my old act was a storyteller. I’d always keep an ear out for fables and legends an’ stories and all that, an’ make sure they got told anywhere new. Kinda faded that out…” and here she pauses, a sad look crossing her face for a moment. But it’s just as quickly gone, before she resumes. “...but yeah, we started gettin’ more into the havin’ fun part of things than the history ‘hind it all. There’s still some bits of the ol’ style left, though- Rackhan’s been with the carnival since word go, and a part of the big act still has some storytellin’ in it, even if I’m not a part of it anymore…”

“What made it shift focus?” You find yourself asking.

She shrugs. “Nothin’ major, just...people didn’t want to hear about the past anymore, seems like. Less attention to the stories, less interest in the old stuff Rackhan has- not like he cares. So we ended tryin’ to make things more of a festival. Got acrobats, seers, strongmen, knife-throwers and swordsfolks, alla these folks for flash and glam. Rather not have the last couple in that list, though. Ugh.” She shivers. “I dunno what bandage boy and ‘is lizard are all about, but they scare me somethin’ fierce.”

“Aha! Terribly sorry!” The voice is accompanied by thudding as the large man rumbles back, this time with something in hand. “This here is a rare treat, my dear, a rare treat indeed!” What he has in his hand is an orb, perfectly smooth-save for the number of engravings on it. Takes a lot of energy to craft, but what you hold in your hands is none other than a Spirit Stone!” He looks rather proud of himself, and Wallacia claps lightly for you. “So with this, my dear, should your summoner wish to infuse this with you, you will be able to use your abilities to their absolute fullest! Er, for a time.”

It’s then that he takes another look at you, and almost all at once something seems to click in his head, his expression going a bit nervous. “Aaalllllthough perhaps you might be interested in something perhaps less, er...volatile?”

“Volatile? What’s volatile about-” Wallacia starts, but is quickly interrupted.

(cont.)

>>3002198
“Like perhaps one of the fine artifacts from our esteemed collector Rackhan? Or perhaps something of unusual note from elsewhere! A free fortune telling?” He looks behind you, then to the left and right in panic; smiling nervously when he seems someone just out of your peripheral vision. “Ah, or perhaps lessons in one of our fair arts? Lechka, dear boy!”

You turn around...and lo and behold, it’s that same lizard from the other day. He’s wrapped up in bandages much like the other man, obscuring a fair portion of his head (save for one eye), torso, legs, and tail, but the way he flinches, and then stares you down with that same hateful eye…

> “I think I’ll accept this. Don’t worry, it’ll go to good use.” He’s nothing to you anymore.
> “Perhaps lessons would be good.” And you can teach him a lesson of your own, in private…
> “He WAS interested in one of Rackhan’s artifacts…” You could be nice to the kid, you suppose.
>Other

>>3002202
>> “Perhaps lessons would be good.” And you can teach him a lesson of your own, in private…

Interrogation and extortion is our favourite game!

>>3002202
>> “I think I’ll accept this. Don’t worry, it’ll go to good use.” He’s nothing to you anymore.
This sounds too good to pass up.


Maybe if we have the time we can give her one of our stories, in case she get the chance to tell them again.

>>3002202
>> “He WAS interested in one of Rackhan’s artifacts…” You could be nice to the kid, you suppose.

>>3002225
Supporting

>>3002202
>> “He WAS interested in one of Rackhan’s artifacts…” You could be nice to the kid, you suppose.
He's earned it for the serious clutch he pulled in the shooting gallery.

>>3002202
> “I think I’ll accept this. Don’t worry, it’ll go to good use.” He’s nothing to you anymore.
Lizard boi seems to understand pecking order, perhaps we ought to grab a hold of him this time and hear out HIS side of the story?

>>3002202
> “He WAS interested in one of Rackhan’s artifacts…” You could be nice to the kid, you suppose.

What could go wrong?

Tie. 5 more in case anyone wants to change then I'll flip for it.

>>3002291
Think you gonna need to flip it boss

Rolled 1 (1d2)

Thought I posted this.

1:Take what we got.
2:How about an artifact.

>>3002351
Aaw...well at least now we have a replacement for the summoning orb.

>>3002358
Question is what we can do with it, hopefully poking it with the Farsight will give us something

>>3002202
>>3002225
>>3002230
>>3002251
On the whole, maybe this is good enough for now. “I think I’ll accept this. Don’t worry, it’ll go to good use.” You don’t even look away from the lizard as you say this, who simply snorts and turns away. Hopefully he’s not going to get any funny ideas…

“Yeah, ignore him,” Wallacia says, entirely ignorant of the history. “Lechka ain’t a people person. He and Zarius are only really ‘ere for the knife an’ fightin’ acts.” She snorts, her displeasure evident.

“Now, now, they do their job admirably,” the ringmaster says evenly, even as his eyes dart between you and the orb he’s given you. “We can’t force them to be personable if their job doesn’t require it. Now!” And here he stands up straighter, if not by much. “I have a main event to finish preparing for, so if you two don’t mind? Ah, and Wallacia, if you can, do please try to coax Breecha out for later? I heard her squawking to herself as she passed by here. I can only presume she’s in her trailer.”

“Sure thing.” She salutes, and the door’s closed. “I’m gonna go do that. You have a nice rest o’ the day!” Waving casually, she flaps her wings and flies off, apparently expecting you to walk back solo.

When you do get back, you notice that Lysan and his family aren’t around- except for Millie, who’s waiting around near the booth. “Ly and the folks went ahead to get a seat for the big top event. What’d you get?”

You show her the orb, and Millie’s mouth does an impression of a goldfish. “The fu-” slapping her hand in front of her mouth, she exhales the rest of the swear, the hand going to pinch her nose. “How did they- you know what that is?”

“He called it a Spirit Stone, and, well...he implied that it would increase my power temporarily,” you respond.

She sighs, simply nodding. “Sure, we’ll go with that. Tch...Come on, follow me. Getting sick of my little brother being the center of attention for gift giving. First you, then the bandaged guy comes back, and now this...if he passes this, I’m gonna just get him a nice, risk-free position in the department and be done with it...”

> “Sounds like a plan to me. Safe, stable.”
> “Isn’t that a bit overbearing? What if he doesn’t want that?”
> “Has he been given another strange item recently?”
> Other

>>3002460
Sounds like a higher quality summoning orb. Maybe now thatw e have it we can start throwing some weight around.

>>3002505
>> “Has he been given another strange item recently?”

>>3002505
> “Has he been given another strange item recently?”

Eh? Bandage guy got back? Is she talking about the 'robbery' or something else?


> “Isn’t that a bit overbearing? What if he doesn’t want that?”

>>3002505
>> “Has he been given another strange item recently?”

Also apparently the ringmaster was eyeing the orb because that thing is extremely valuable and we are the first person to ever accept it.

>>3002505
>>3002516
Seconding

Bandage guy came back, what'd he do?

>>3002505
>> “Isn’t that a bit overbearing? What if he doesn’t want that?”
>> “Has he been given another strange item recently?”

>>3002525
>we are the first person to ever accept it.
I think it's more like we're the first to actually win. Though if the thing is so valuable, why is it a hidden prize at a traveling carnival? You'd think if they did want to give it away, they'd display it to encourage more people to play.

>>3002525
sounds inaccurate to me
I think he was nervous because Lysol's sister is a cop and this is a knockoff spirit stone with major drawbacks because it's a shady carnival.

Millicent [Data Expunged]
A.K.A. 'Solo', 'The Surprise'
Age: [Classified]
Position: Chief Inquisitor for the Department of Magical Regulations

History: Millicent is considered one of the most unorthodox yet effective Inquisitors we've ever had in any position. Seemingly absent minded and flighty when not working or when not discussing the subject of summons, she has regardless repeatedly been shown to have an incomparably cool head under pressure as well as masterful knowledge of summon culture and methodology. Despite this, she retains a unique method of conflict engagement and resolution that tend to eschew the usage of any summons whatsoever. She has no favored summon, and has refused to utilize any of the city-given summons when offered. This has not diminished her effectiveness in any way, and in fact seems to have afforded her a certain element of surprise when dealing with hostile individuals. Her physical strength and speed have been noted to be at what is estimated to be peak human performance, however she has refused to elaborate on her training and/or diet regimen in order to achieve such a state consistently.

(Writing.)

>>3002635
Peak performance eh?
Hmm, Now I'm wondering if she's even human.

>>3002635
Hmm... Interesting.

>>3002663
I'm beginning to wonder if the reason why Lyric has problems summoning ties into that somehow.

>>3002505
>>3002516
>>3002519
>>3002523
>>3002541
“Just a second.” You repeat what she just said mentally, and something sticks out at you. “‘Bandage guy comes back?’ Has he been given another strange item recently?”

“Yeah,” she confirms. “Oddest thing was that apparently he came back to apologize, of all things.” Really? Huh. “I dunno if his heart was really into it, but he said sorry and gave Ly a little stone chip. Said it’d help if he ever had issues with summoning bonds.” She huffs as you both approach the big top entrance. “I recognized it. It was just a little piece of a focus plate, nothing major. The specifics of it I couldn’t make out, but I told him to not use it until I got a better look at it. Although frankly...” she eyes the orb you have in your hands just before you put it away, and she just shakes her head. “Nevermind. C’mon, they should be around here somewhere…”

It doesn’t take much longer to find them sitting on a higher level, fortunately, and you get seated. You don’t have to wait much longer before the tent darkens, and suddenly two summons, thin and with womanly shapes, flitter out from the top of the tent, flying on wings of gossamer around the audience in a circle. They glow of a faint blue, trailing small specks of glowing blue dust as they do, and slowly do they close the circle they’re making, gradually lighting up a single figure in the center- the ringmaster. Before long, there's a light dusting of it that makes the arena look positively sparkling.

And makes you a touch hungry for blueberries.

As they meet in the center, the glow brightens and steadies, converging into a sort of spot light, bathing the man in an ethereal blue palette. “Welcome, one and all!” He booms, his voice carrying surprisingly far. “Welcome, welcome to a place where dreams and reality collide, where whimsy and fact are one at the same! Where mystery and joy abound! Welcome to the Shooting Star Carnival’s Grand Fantasium Performance!”

>Roll 2d20, best of 3.

Rolled 1, 12 = 13 (2d20)

>>3002833

Rolled 10, 9 = 19 (2d20)

>>3002833

Rolled 16, 11 = 27 (2d20)

>>3002833
rollin

Interdasting. Writing.

>>3002833
So, normally our existence in a world is that of a walking WMD, but I've been driven paranoid by our classification as a level 4 summon, we really need to find out what the barometer for summons in this world is, because it's potentially terrifying

>>3002868
Considering most people's reaction to us, we're visibly much stronger than the norm. And we're just playing a summon for a guy trying to get his certs, not someone deliberately engaging in combat, so we shouldn't have a serious worry unless things go really sideways.

>>3002833
>>3002839
>>3002840
>>3002847
Immediately, they begin to put on a show to leave the people dazzled. The two glowing summons seemingly vanish into thin air, before being replaced by a number of various bodies suddenly erupting from the top of the area, shining in resplendent yellow and purple bodysuits, and you can just make out wires on the top of them, which is what prevents them from splatting into the pavement as they begin to swoop and swirl around the stage, much to the amazement of the crowd. You have to admit, they seem flexible enough…

The two twist around each other in a mid-air dance, rising and falling in sync, but never quite going as low as they were before- it evokes vague images of a sort of sunrise, and true enough, as they get to a certain height, they eventual vanish, and the tent brightens just a bit. Interesting theme, if that’s the case.

The next act is something along the lines of a combination of clowns and story, with a number of summons and people in garish costume stalking out of the sides of the circus tent, and performing a number of humorous stunts- one particularly large summon (rhinoesque, ironically enough) seems to swallow a performer whole, before spitting him out upon ‘seeing’ a large, bear-like (and clearly female) summon stroll past. A lot of laughs are had, and Millie seems to have loosened up to chortle a bit. You spare a bit of a grin, but that’s about it.

More of this, and another brightening of the tent, and soon it’s a mass of more summons and humans, all of them noticeably lithe. The group are a number of mass acrobatics, and their coordination is impressive. You spare a glance at the rest of the family nearby, and it’s easy to see that they’re clearly transfixed. Why, they’re hardly blinking, such is the spectacle. You can feel a bit of a tug to just go back to watching them, yourself.

That only gets stronger as the top then, interestingly enough, dims slightly again. And from here on what seems to be an all-summon act, several (many you recognize from earlier) now acting out an elaborate dance that seems to be reminiscent of some sort of hunt, even going so far as to fake skewer several of them, and then perform acrobatics by taking the ‘carcasses’, and with grunts, flinging them up and over with incredible grace into what seems to be a darkened corner of the top (where there’s likely a net, you figure). The ‘bodies’ all stand ramrod, flipping slowly and gracefully themselves as they ‘vanish’.

(cont.)

>>3002942
That tug gets stronger as the light dims, and there’s a slight blurring of your eyes. You blink slightly, and then look down, finding yourself on the edge of your seat quite literally. Lysan is practically standing up, and the others are little better, although Millie’s arms are tense as she grips the underside of the seat. You can see out the corner of your eye various hooded figures are walking out to the center ring, although it’s not like they’re trying to hide anything, you don’t think. Sure enough, they soon start dancing, a flowing and steady beat while holding various objects that, judging from the jingling and other sounds, are intended to be instruments.

>Lysan’s clearly enjoying it, but maybe he should sit down.
>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.
>Continue watching the show. There’s no harm done so far.
>Other

Oh, short though it was, I've got to go for tonight. I'm volunteering at a thing tomorrow.

>>3002944
>>Lysan’s clearly enjoying it, but maybe he should sit down.

>>3002944
>>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.
Man, I really hope we won't have to deal with this mindfuckery ourselves.

>>3002944
>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.

>>3002944
>>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.
“You feeling the same way I’m feeling about this? Because I’m feeling like I’m left out of some sort of loop.”

>>3002944
>>Continue watching the show. There’s no harm done so far.
But maybe continue keeping an eye on the crowd's reactions. Something's off here, though so far nothing seems malicious. Maybe they've just got some enrapturing magic going, so the crowd will want to come back and spend more money or somesuch?

>>3002975
Im thinking that too, but we should edge on the side of caution.

>Huh...dunno what I was expecting. Pretty swank theater, though.

>By my count, there's only fourteen individuals here. Our chances of success, I'd hope, are fairly high.

>You an' me both. Oh, hey, eyes front. I think that's the guy.

>Okay, newbies! Sup, you can call me Rawk. Not gonna mince words. You wanna get into my crew, you gotta know how to break it down or belt it out. Don't matter what so long as you can light up a crowd. When we perform, we're gonna do it to it, ya get me? So! First thing's first. All you kids here to bust a move, line up...

>Good luck, Pri!

>Thank you!

>...Right, now, I'm splittin' you into two. You two, pair off. You two, pair off. You two, pair off...

>Wait, just what are we doing this for?

>What's your name?

>Sazalia.

>Right. Well, Sazalia, my crew takes part in competitions. So...we're gonna have a quick little battle competition, girl!

>Wait, here and now?

>Yep! That's the 'freestyle' part! So, you best square up, 'cause you're up first!

>Oh my! Well, if you insist...

>Battle? Interesting. I'll have to add this to my database...

>Alright, ladies and gents, Round 1! Sazalia and...

>Jokan, dude.

>Jokan, yeah! Let's get it! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TF4_tkoSUP4

>>3002944
>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.
We're reading her for Carnie shenanigans input right?
>>3002975
>Other Inner-eye's out for Mind Whammies
In the past we have proven rather susceptible to mind whammies.

>>3002944
>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.

>>3002944
>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.

>Other: "Try to see if you still have your stuff."

Is this some king of charm so they are able to steal people during the show?

>>3003075
I considered it, but that's highly noticeable, they'd never survive as a roaming circus if they robbed people THAT blatantly.

>>3003077
I think this is just a basic charm to make people want to bring their friends

>>3002944
>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.

>>3002975
Supporting

>>3002944
>>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.

>>3001719
Any requests Handler? I'm the guy who did Lorelei's model and I may or may not have the entirety of SES trio ready.

>>3003369
Seeing Izumi would be cool as well. Beyond that, the newer three human members would be excellent as well. Don't be afraid to take a bit of artistic license with their looks.

>>3002944
>Ask Millie if she’s okay. She seems particularly tense.

>>3002944
Have we used energy channel to resist magic before? I seem to recall something like that happening when we recruited Cylica and snagged her staff...
Eh, probably not time to use that, we're near friendlies; but keep it in mind.

>>3002944
>>3002953
>>3002964
>>3002973
>>3003038
>>3003069
>>3003075
>>3003118
>>3003211
>>3004010
You’re not stupid, and what’s more whatever this tugging is is a bit too obvious for you to dismiss as just an urge. At the very least, though, you can ignore it if you focus. Millie, on the other hand, seems to be in the midst of grinding her teeth down. “Are you alright?” You find yourself asking- the words are a touch heavy on your lips, but you can still get them out easily enough. “You look tense. Very tense.”

There’s a brief shudder, and then she’s able to rip her eyes off of the spectacle for a few moments. “Just...really want to watch this is all,” she says near breathlessly. “It-it’s pretty amazing. Probably a bit of an additive, though…not illegal, but...” her thoughts trail off as her gaze wanders back to the show floor, the hooded individuals partially disrobed now, showing that two of their number are summons, with the rest being various humans painted in the style of summons… at least, you’re pretty sure of that, anyway.

They’re arranged in a circle, and it seems to have been some sort of visual retelling of an event, as two stand in the manmade circle- one summon, one painted human, moving and flowing around each other in a seemingly deadly dance that evokes fighting, and you’re reminded of a number of combat styles that mask one beneath the other. Lorelei’s always been interested in those, but you, not so much. You’re not afraid to admit it makes for good spectacle, though; just inefficiency. You’re only somewhat surprised to see Lechka as one of the two summons, but he isn’t taking part in the combat, instead acting out the part of one of the ringsides. He doesn’t seem to notice you at all, even. As for the summon in the fight, however...the lionoid seems to move with a sinewy grace, dodging and ducking the human’s strike with ease, although his own strikes find little purchase on the human as well. The group seems to be chanting, led by Lechka, whom you can’t see directly, him being faced away from you. However, after sidestepping an attempt at a hammerblow, there’s a flash of- something, you’re not sure what at this distance- and the man drops to a knee as the other robed individuals chant. “To us! To us!” They sing. “A savior, to heal our fallen! To us! To us! Whom shall we choose?” Lechka is already peering out at the crowd, clearly looking for someone to pick.

The tug grows a bit stronger- and that’s when Lysan stands up, having been on the verge of doing so for some time as hands go up, his included...in fact, he's got his hand raised despite already trying to scoot past his enraptured parents, as well as yourself.

>Let Lysan volunteer himself. Lechka wouldn’t do anything so bold in plain sight, would he?
>Try to force Lysan’s hand (and body) down. You don’t know what he’d be willing to risk.
>Other

>>3008127
>>Let Lysan volunteer himself. Lechka wouldn’t do anything so bold in plain sight, would he?
If she recognizes it, and it's not illegal, he should be fine.
I'm tempted to volunteer ourselves, but with him in that state I don't want to leave him alone. At least in the ring we can see him.

>>3008127
>Try to force Lysan’s hand (and body) down. You don’t know what he’d be willing to risk.

Don’t forget about the maestro club wanting to stop him. They’re all rich kids in high society, and they’ve got the backing of an Outgoer.

>>3008127
>Try to force Lysan’s hand (and body) down. You don’t know what he’d be willing to risk.
Sit down kid.

>>3008146
Can't forget that Lechka gave Lysan that weird stone. Don't know what that could be mean though.

>Try to force Lysan’s hand (and body) down. You don’t know what he’d be willing to risk.

>Other: Millie mentioned something Lysan getting a Stone chip see if that is reacting anyway with him.

As far as we know he is completely entranced and not in his right mind.

>>3008175
>>3008127
Ops forgot to link. lol

>>3008164
The club just gave us a warning, that wasn't a threat until after the Might Test, and didn't give us a chance to react before pushing us out. We don't need to fear them until /after/ the test.

>>3008187
Fair but i'm still suspicius of the boy he both stumbled against Lysan and after it came trying to apologize by giving a stone chip.

My paranoia is tinggling because this seems like the obvious move of targeting the weak summoner instead of attacking the strong summon.

>>3008175
>Other: Millie mentioned something Lysan getting a Stone chip see if that is reacting anyway with him.
Good call.

>>3008127
>>Other: Millie mentioned something Lysan getting a Stone chip see if that is reacting anyway with him.
If nothing happens:
>Let Lysan volunteer himself.

Making grabby hands.
Writing!

>>3008127
>>3008164
>>3008174
>>3008175
>>3008198
>>3008228
He barely gets to you before you grab his wrist, looping your arms around his and his waist to drag him down to sit- it’s on your lap, but sit he does...at least for a few seconds before he starts trying to struggle. It’s not much of anything to you, but then he starts kicking and it starts to get a bit annoying. Seriously, no one else is acting this feverish about the show, additive influence or no!

And that’s when it practically smacks you in the face. He’d been given something beforehand. A ‘focus plate’, Millie had called it. You’d eat your jacket if it wasn’t related. It takes a bit to search his wardrobe, but you manage to dig into a pocket (causing him to squeal a bit in ticklishness) and find something in there. It’s all of the size of a cracker, but you can by now recognize that there’s some runic carvings in it, although you’ve no clue what they mean, and it’s glowing a very faint gold…

You have to blink a few times, and you can feel that tug becoming more of a pull as your vision fogs slightly…

“W-wait...what am I doing in your lap..?” you here Lysan say sleepily.

>Roll 1d20, best of 3.

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>3008329
good call on the chips, anons.

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3008329

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>3008329
Here goes...

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>3008329
Thank goodness someone voted to search for the trinket

>>3008336
>>3008343
>>3008348
Goddamn mind magic...

File: 6ccaNAE.png (293 KB, 403x539)

293 KB PNG

>>3008336
>>3008343
>>3008348

...Ha ha.

Neat.

Writing!

>>3008336
>>3008343
>>3008348

Well we had to fail a job at some point.

>>3008378
...so will he scream rape? or will we go in his stead? Or were we rolling for his ability to hide his boner?

>>3008384
Eh. The mafia world had us mind controlled for like five minutes too. This is nothing new.

>>3008389
>inb4 bandage boy order us to give/get the book back from Lysan and we have to fight Lysan's sister.

Also if your summon is taken from you i guess this shows that you don't have a real bound with it uh?

>>3008329
>>3008336
>>3008343
>>3008348
This fog… you know about this...no, you have to focus your mind on something specific, something that can command your attention. Otherwise, this pull, this yearning to go up to that very nice, comfortable looking spot with the pretty light on it…

You can hear a muffled voice talking lightly, and then a shuffling on your lap, but it’s so...distant…you need to think...focus...but what could be better than the light?

>Try to focus on this feeling in your lap…it’s nice enough.
>What’s that sound next to you…? It’s...annoying.
>That strange lizard...why does your pulse quicken?
>Nothing. Nothing is better.

Well, regardless of choice this'll be fun.

Also man this is the second time we are mind controlled. I'm starting to think that Miranda is weak to it and after having that happen two times in different jobs will just make her want to find a way to stop that bullshit.

Also if we ever end the mind control we are dispersing the lizard summon and breaking this kids arms.

>>3008447
>That strange lizard...why does your pulse quicken?

Activate fight mode! Kill the Lizard!

>>3008447
>>What’s that sound next to you…? It’s...annoying.

>>3008448
I was thinking something similar. We should take a gander and mind control protection after this job, at least check on prices.

>>3008447
>>Try to focus on this feeling in your lap…it’s nice enough.

Time to snuggle, it's been decades!

>>3008448
>Try to focus on this feeling in your lap…it’s nice enough.
...I just wanna see shenanigans happen, i swear!

>>3008448
I don't think weak is the right word, we just don't have any particular defense to a first encounter. We can break out of it, but can't stop it from happening.

>>3008447
>That strange lizard...why does your pulse quicken?
Think of the fat stacks!

>>3008447
>Try to focus on this feeling in your lap…it’s nice enough.

No fighting the lizard. We don't want someone to get caught in the blast radius.

>>3008474
You know what, supporting. This might break character but I'm curious on where this option will lead us to.

>>3008476
Whoops, changing to
>>3008447
>What’s that sound next to you…? It’s...annoying
I thought the lizard to think of was sal

>>3008447
>That strange lizard... Why does your pulse quicken?
We haven't gotten into a scuffle in too long! Unleash the Chuuni!

>>3008447
>>3008466
change to
>>Try to focus on this feeling in your lap…it’s nice enough.
The lure of shenanigans is too strong.

>>3008447
>>That strange lizard...why does your pulse quicken?

>>3008511
Nah the Lizard is the summon we should unleash our fight instict so no one can mind control us. Although that would show the Lysan can't control his summon and probably piss off the creppy owner of the carnival.

Or we will give such a good show fighting the lizard that people will actually be entertained.

Rolled 7, 18 + 3 = 28 (2d20 + 3)

Laptastic.

Ignore this roll, writing afterwards.

>>3008555
I think most people will expect his hold over us to be lax anyway, so taking some initiative is fine

>>3008563
I hope that the one in the middle is us or Lysa.

>>3008602
But we might get banned from the test as a danger to children.

>>3008613
We have not done anything to suggest this yet. As long as we don't end up breaking someone in half we'll be fiiiine.

File: Spoiler Image (44 KB, 268x248)

44 KB PNG

>>3008563
So we've got a meh roll and a damn good roll...

So, what, is this Miranda realizing Lyme's rugged masculinity? Or is this the opposite, and Lyric just discovered a new fetish for tough women?

>>3008607
No, the three's not a roll, it's just a modifier to the previous two rolls.

>>3008641
Miranda just found that she likes to manhandle people, and Lysol found he likes to be manhandled.

>>3008632
Attacking someone in the middle of a carnival?

>>3008555
If we fight someone under mind control we're not going to be restricting ourselves, and in this world we could end up killing someone, or start completely disregarding collateral damage. Which would make a rather poor impression on the school, at least.

>>3008659
>Miranda just found that she likes to manhandle people
A pre existing condition
>>3008692
We haven't done anything yet, cross those fingers and pray to the Deal Makers

>>3008447
>>3008467
>>3008474
>>3008481
>>3008511
>>3008528
What you have right here, right now. This feeling on your lap...comfort. Warmth. Like a bed but not quite. Warmth is good, it’s right here. You dimly realizing your tightening hold on him as you try to get closer to the feeling- the warmth is spreading through your chest now. Maybe if you just focus on this, that pull will go away. The pull is strong, but here is nice. You LIKE here. There’s a funny feeling in your arms, like something tickling them, but you don’t know what...but it’s funny, at least. There’s another struggling attempt, and it almost blinks some of the fog away...but you need to keep that comfort. You know you do.

So you hold on a bit tighter, and- ah, there’s something on your legs. Hitting your legs. You shift those, and pin whatever it was behind them. Ah, that’s comfortable, too…

It’s nice. Comfort like this is nice...

Suddenly, like it was exposed exposed to light, the fog begins lifting as you hear a voice to your right. “O-okay, bro, just- just stay calm, okay?” It’s distant, but you can make it out, at least. “S-s-she’s not doing anything to you, right?” There’s almost a warbling tone to it…

“N-n-n-no! But she’s a…really tight hugger!” Huh? Hugging?

“Well, just be careful…” another male voice. “Maybe we can get some water?”

And like a snap, the fog lifts entirely, and the world rushes back into focus quickly enough that you have to blink a bit as all the sensory information rushes back into your being. You’re in the big top- one that’s more than halfway empty by now, and you’re surrounded- for a moment your reflexes kick in and make you want to start punching, but just as quickly you recall that, among other things, these are friendlies, and your hands are occupied.

Very occupied. As are your legs.

Because you’ve got Lysan- the boy you were hired to help, a client- in a tight, full body hug, even bent over a bit to rest flush against his back. You can see that Lysan is redder than a ripe tomato, stock still as well.

“Hhheeeeeyyy…” You shift your eyes, not willing to move turn your face towards the sound of Millie desperately trying to hold back a laugh. “Ssoooo, y-you okay now? Didn’t think you were...uh...that kinda s-summon...pfth...”

A shift of your eyes shows her parents as well, looking over you with a combination of concern and amusement.

Well.

This is just...fantastic.

> “Blame the focus plate. I was defending against hypnosis.” You do NOT want these people getting the wrong idea.
> “I request we leave now.” Whatever happened, or was supposed to happen...it didn’t work. No need to focus on it. Please.
> “What happened?” As much as you hate to, you’re going to need to hear the details just in case…
>Other

>>3008747
> “Blame the focus plate. I was defending against hypnosis.” You do NOT want these people getting the wrong idea.
Looks like we're dominating the polls of this anime/show after this shenanigan.

>>3008747
>> “Blame the focus plate. I was defending against hypnosis.” You do NOT want these people getting the wrong idea.
Using a human teddy bear, apparently, but still. I am suddenly extremely glad this is a solo job. Lori would never let us hear the end of it if she knew.
> “What happened?” As much as you hate to, you’re going to need to hear the details just in case…
If we can pin down what happened, maybe we can defend against it better.

>>3008747
> “Blame the focus plate. I was defending against hypnosis.” You do NOT want these people getting the wrong idea.
> “What happened?” As much as you hate to, you’re going to need to hear the details just in case…
>"I'm going to have words with this Lechka. Sharp, pointy words..."

>>3008747
>> “Blame the focus plate. I was defending against hypnosis.” You do NOT want these people getting the wrong idea.
> “What happened?” As much as you hate to, you’re going to need to hear the details just in case…

Sal is having gonna have a FUCKING FIELD DAY with this(specially if he recorded it)

>>3008747
>“Blame the focus plate. I was defending against hypnosis.” You do NOT want these people getting the wrong idea.
>“What happened?” As much as you hate to, you’re going to need to hear the details just in case…

>>3008747
> “Blame the focus plate. I was defending against hypnosis.” You do NOT want these people getting the wrong idea.
We absolutely meant to do this, swear down.

>>3008747
> “Blame the focus plate. I was defending against hypnosis.” You do NOT want these people getting the wrong idea.

>Other: "I'm going to have words with this Lechka. Sharp, pointy words..."

If possible add in the dropping Lysan like a sack of potatoes and go stab a crocodile.

>>3008783
He recorded it and he is showing to Lorelei right this moment.

>>3008803
Wait, Bandage Boy's name ISN'T Lechka? Fuck, I meant Bandage Boy when I said that...

Although, if we do beat up the lizard, then hey, free sword!

>>3008808
>Lorelei also sends it to her 'bots AND the daycare kids.

>>3008747
> I'm all sorts of kinds of a summon. Since I tend to get irritated at people trying to control my mind, it's best if we leave now unless you want to see just what kind of summons I can be when I'm mad.

I didn't do it on purpose.

No, seriously! STOP GIGGLING.

Writing.

>>3008839
>...it was going according to...to my plan! YES. THIS WAS MY PLAN ALL ALONG! It was to prove my hugging abilities!

Man I do not regret picking that option
>>3008770
Supporting

>>3008747
Dayum, Lysan's harem protag powers so strong even Miranda was pulled in!

>>3009058
Confirmed we are the Yan as well

>>3009112
Yan? I though we were the Kuudere.

>>3009112
Yans would usually either be super shy or very outgoing, right? Right now we're looking more Tsun, or maybe Kuu

>>3009142
I think more Kuu because only under mind control we broke our Kuu and allowed our feellings to push out.

Anyway we are tottaly dispersing a lizard today.

>>3009152
Wait, was the lizard the same guy as the bandage man?

>>3008747
>>3008768
>>3008770
>>3008778
>>3008783
>>3008799
>>3008801
>>3008803
“It wasn’t intentional,” you immediately lead off. “I was trying to defend myself against hypnotic suggestion.” You know it’s best to at least attempt eye contact when convincing individuals…

But that doesn’t mean it’s not hard sometimes.

Millie raises an eyebrow. “Yeah? By doing what?” There’s a small grin on her face, as though she’s expecting a particular answer.

Nonetheless, you answer. “I focused on a sensation that was nearby…”aaaand you realize how that sounded as soon as you finished, and her mouth ticks up just as yours drops down.
“...so I wouldn’t leave my seat,” you finish. Her expression doesn’t change, but she just shrugs. Sighing internally, you decide to forge on. “Alright, so. What happened while I was...indisposed?”

“Oh, well, they sort of took a minute when they were trying to get an audience member- one of them pointed at you, but they picked someone else after you didn’t respond,” Millie explains easily. “After that, show went on about as normal. The fire show to close it out was nice. They could do without the crowd control summons, though…” she grouses.

“Crowd control?” you ask. She’d mentioned something like it before. “You mean that ‘additive’ you mentioned earlier?”

She nods. “Yeah. Some summons have effects that can mildly influence your interest in something or slightly alter your thought process...they’re just barely legal, but mostly socially unacceptable, or you generally know what to expect and you can counteract it just by thinking really hard. A lot of times, if you don’t know it’s happening, you never will.” She sighs, shaking her head. “Really, I’m not a fan, but, eh. Hands are tied.”

Well, you were certainly more interested than just ‘mildly’. “Lysan seemed pretty strongly into it,” is what you say out loud, though. “Enough that I was worried. I also found this glowing,” you say as you pick up the Focus Plate, finally letting go of Lysan. “And all things considered, I’d call this the culprit.”

Millie looks curious as she takes the plate from you, but that morphs into a...smirk? “The Focus Plate? That shouldn’t have any effect on a summon’s power- it’s supposed to increase the power of the Bond between summon and summoner in times of crisis. You don’t remember that? I mean, if it’s been THAT long since you’ve been summoned, I can’t say I’m surprised. But if anything, it should’ve helped you break out of any snaring magic, if you really were under one.”

(cont.)

>>3009177
What…? “Although, I’m kinda clueless on the engravings,” she admits. “They don’t usually look like that. That IS kinda interesting…wonder if I could call it in.”

“Well, it seems that there’s been no harm done for now,” Lysan’s father says amicably. “Maybe we should head for home and we’ll worry about it another time, hm?

“Oh, it feels like we’ve been here for a while, really,” Lysan’s mother complains. “Might just be my old bones, though…”

Lysan is still red in the face, and when you look at him he’s VERY pointedly trying to avoid looking anywhere near you- in face facing an entirely different direction. Still, he gives a stuttered response. “Y-y-yeah, sure we can go!”

> “Lysan, don’t you want to check this out? Maybe with that weird old man?” He seems like the type that’d know exactly what this is...
> “Alright, then. Let’s get out of here.” Maybe you can investigate yourself…the FutureSight’s bound to have something, right?
> Just crush the Focus Plate here and now. It’s not worth the risk.
> Other

>>3009167
No, I think lizard guy was bandage boy's summon. Either that or the summon of guy with the relics who smelled like a dumpster.

>>3009181
>“Lysan, don’t you want to check this out? Maybe with that weird old man?” He seems like the type that’d know exactly what this is...
As much as I want to crush the plate here and now we need more info.

>>3009188
I see.

>>3009181
> “Lysan, don’t you want to check this out? Maybe with that weird old man?” He seems like the type that’d know exactly what this is...

>>3009181
> “Lysan, don’t you want to check this out? Maybe with that weird old man?” He seems like the type that’d know exactly what this is...

>>3009181
>> “Lysan, don’t you want to check this out? Maybe with that weird old man?” He seems like the type that’d know exactly what this is...

Unanimous.

Writing!

>>3009181
> “Alright, then. Let’s get out of here.” Maybe you can investigate yourself…the FutureSight’s bound to have something, right?

Let's listen to the parents.

>>3009181
>>3009195
>>3009197
>>3009199
>>3009209
While you understand his reluctance, you’re not sure you want to just leave this alone. Could just crush it, but that doesn’t mean it couldn’t be made and used on you again somehow. “Lysan, don’t you want to check this out?” you ask. “You’re not curious about why your sister says this plate is different?”

“I-I mean I guess?” he ventures shakily.

You sigh. “Look, maybe we can check in with that weird old man. He DID say to come back.” You weren’t sure if you were INTENDING it at first, but all things considered it might be worth it...so long as you keep a close eye on him and his exhibits.

Millie, clearly, isn’t a fan of the idea. “Ugh, you want to going back there? I dunno about that…”

“Hmmm…” Lysan’s father is clear in thought. “Well, if they make it quick, I suppose it can’t hurt too much, can it?”

His mother shakes her head. “I guess not. Just don’t ask too many questions, okay? We have to get back.”

Throwing her hands up, Millie groans. “Fine! But I’ll stay outside. Just lemme know when it’s over…if you take too long, though, I’m coming in to drag you out!”

Well, hopefully, it wouldn’t come to that.

As soon as you approach, though, the entryway opens, and you’re unsurprised to see Rackhan standing there, welcoming you in. “Ahhh, so good to see you back! I trust you’ve seen quite a few sights, eh? Perhaps made a new friend or two?” He chuckles as you both step back in. “Ah, but you have the air of…” he sniffs, and his smile widens a touch. “business about you. Do tell, what is it that you request of me?”

It’s Lysan who speaks up now. “A-actually, it was this!” He holds out the Focus Plate- you’d given it back to him on the way over. “My sister says that this is an unusual Focus Plate, and I got it from a guy...I’m pretty sure he works here, actually. He had a lot of bandages…”

“I am aware of whom you speak,” he acknowledges as a spindly hand touches the plate. He gives it a good squint, flipping it back and forth in Lysan’s palm- even drawing a finger on it and licking it, as though to taste the stone itself, smacking his lips like a connoisseur. “Mmmm...most interesting. I DO wonder how the young man acquired such a piece.”

“So you know what it is?” You ask.

He gives a singular chuckle, something low and haughty. “Oh, of course, my dear! And then he turns back to Lysan. “And this little beauty would be very useful for a nascent summoner like yourself. Very useful indeed.” He grins. “Would you believe me if I told you that such a device could command absolute obedience from a summoned creature? Regardless of level of power?”

(cont.)

>>3009473
He blinks, looking down at it, and then back up. “H-how?”

“Ahh, the past is what you would look to to answer that! I should warn, however, should my interpretation be correct- and I’ve little doubt it is- it comes at a terrible price, should it be overused…” His grin becomes wicked, and you get the feeling he’s not going to say exactly what the price is. “So tell me, boy...knowing this, are you perhaps interested in keeping that little slab? I may be willing to trade for it...”

Lysan can’t help but swallow deeply, and for once the man is totally fixated on him. “T-trade?”

“Let us say for that fascinating sculpture you were looking at earlier. I daresay you may do well with what remains in THAT, as well…magics to impress, to go beyond what you know, boy.” His eyes gleam. “A bit less in one way- but more in others.”

“Are you two done in there?” Millie calls out irritably.

“Aha, I sense that this is quite the limited time offer?” His head tilts as Lysan scratches his head, clearly in thought.

> “Just take the trade.” It sounds like that beetle thing is at least less dangerous.
> “I don’t think we should give it up.” You really don’t like how interested this man is in it.
> Other

>>3009475
>> Other
>"I'ts your choice, but if what he says is true and considering what you had to do to get me in the first place, i'd keep it."

>>3009475
>“Just take the trade.” It sounds like that beetle thing is at least less dangerous
Sparkles sound way more interesting than just one summons. Also the old man might engage in shenanigans, fun!
I wonder how pissed bandages would be though.

>>3009475
>> “Just take the trade.” It sounds like that beetle thing is at least less dangerous.
Something useful for something useless to us.

>>3009475
> Other
>"I'ts your choice, but if what he says is true and considering what you had to do to get me in the first place, i'd keep it."

i will support this: Although this seems to be one of those cases of. Controlling someone with 'friendship' or with brainwashing and i suspect the beetle is a focusi for a summon.

>>3009475
>"It's your choice, but were I to make a suggestion, I would favour the statue. Power for a price is a quick way to owing your soul."

Actually, I'm going to wrap it up for tonight. Will try to update tomorrow. Eye on Twitter.

>>3009475
backing this
>>3009489


>>3009520
Thanks for running.

File: Spoiler Image (443 KB, 697x1329)

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https://drive.google.com/open?id=14cwYYz2NGU9IzettFxZXwe5gcKK5h4yv
I had a horrible sleepless week -at the very least the thing i was working on is already out on the Tube- but i'm almost finished with Miranda's rig. As you can see, the face still has to go through some refining because it looks delightfully terrifying, but it should be finished Soon™. In the meanwhile, the WIP files are on the drive link above.

Thanks for running boss!

>>3009475
>> Other
>"I'ts your choice, but if what he says is true and considering what you had to do to get me in the first place, i'd keep it."
Supporting, but once we're outside take it away and use the futuresight on it.
If we were asking spooky old man for anything I think it'd be a history lesson.

>>3009845
Supporting

>>3009473
>Would you believe me if I told you that such a device could command absolute obedience from a summoned creature?
I wonder if this means being able to control any summon out there rather than just his own summons. It's not specifically mentioned that it would help him command just his own summon.

>>3009475
>“I don’t think we should give it up.” You really don’t like how interested this man is in it.
Supporting the idea to use the Futuresight on it

>>3009508
>>3009475
Supporting.

>>3009520
Cool beans boss, cya round
> “I don’t think we should give it up.” You really don’t like how interested this man is in it.
Considering what this guy smells like we should avoid having anything to do with him if we can

>>3009475
>“I don’t think we should give it up.” You really don’t like how interested this man is in it.

Giving it away is just asking for trouble. Potentially fun lap-related trouble, but trouble nonetheless. With how genre-savvy Miranda is, it might be a little strange to trade it away. This is probably the safest option.

>>3009475
>>“I don’t think we should give it up.” You really don’t like how interested this man is in it.

>>3010320
We've been given multiple options to trade things away, these carnies really want their things back that they gave us under suspicious circumstances. I bet because his sister is a magic detective, but little did they know he has a secret service magical girl on payroll at the moment, we can outdo a goddamned local!

>>3010800
Hold on, you're saying his guy is not on the level?!?!

>>3010892
Well he's not on OUR level... probably.

>>3009536
Wow, that's pretty awesome! I'll wait until the rig is done entirely before I mess with it TOO much, but so far it's grand!

I missed running. See you lot in the AM.

>>3020872
Welcome back, boss.

This is horrible, I'm all caught up

>>3020936
Yep, now hurry up and wait

>>3009475
>>3009489
>>3009507
>>3009508
>>3009845
>>3009901
>>3010099
>>3010295
>>3010320
>>3010359
In this case, he’s right. You don’t have much time to consider every angle, and at times like this, your best bet is simply to go with your gut. “I don’t think we should give it up.” He looks at you in vague surprise- did he think you were going to say otherwise, then? “Just saying, although it’s your choice in the end and I’ll abide by it... if what he says is true, and considering what you had to do to get me in the first place, I'd keep it." Although you’re not going to say it here and now, you simply don’t trust the man, either. It’s a very odd back and forth here in this carnival, and you want no part of it more than necessary- especially regarding Rackham.

The creep just chuckles. “Quite the interesting way to put it. A story I would well love to hear…” He eyes you up and down, his grin growing a touch wider before looking back to Lysan. “Well, boy? Think you’ll go along, perhaps realize just what fortune has befallen you?”

Lysan swallows deeply, but nods. “Y-yeah. Think so. She hasn’t steered me wrong yet…” he looks at you with a clear worry, as though hoping this won’t be the start. Not that you intend for it to be.

Rackham nods, that same strange smile on his face; you hate that you can’t quite read him, but that’s the case at the moment as he nods. “Quite understandable. I do so hope that this decision turns out well for you. It would be quite the occurrence, quite the marvel to hear about! I’ll be sure to keep my ears open for any tales from this little corner of the world, hmm? About this one in particular...” He seems to try to plant a slender finger beneath your chin, but you tilt it up and just out of the way as it gets near, fixing him with a fierce stare that hopefully sends the message of just what you’d do if he actually made contact.

He just smiles.

“Ly?! Come on, we need to go!” Millie barks from outside.

“Coming!” He says quickly, and makes for the exit. You begin to follow him, as you notice Rackham staring at you again.

“Perhaps another time, then…” he chuckles as you both leave. It’s that unnerving chuckle that sticks with you as you all drive back.

(cont.)

>>3022047
As you get ‘home’, Lysan’s mother pecks him on the cheek, and Millie sighs, about to take her own leave. “Well. That was something. Back to the grind, I guess.” She fixes you a scowl of her own. “I still don’t like you. I’m still gonna report on you. BUT. If you keep him safe enough, I might just be willing to talk to my folks about properly digging us out of this financial hole my reckless little brother just threw us into without screwing us all.”

“Of course,” you say easily. As long as you get paid.

Lysan, at the very least, looks properly ashamed, while his parents look curiously at her. “Wwwwhat do you mean, honey?” Lysan’s father asks.

“I mean that if he Bonded with her by that agreement, and not the usual protection pact, then if he BREAKS that bond, it could mean a lot of trouble,” she admits. “I’m not going into specifics with her right HERE, obviously.”

“Well, if that’s the case, then... perhaps that talk can wait a bit,” Lysan’s mother frowns. “But ONLY for a bit. You’re still in trouble, young man, victory at the Tests or no.” Lysan blows a sigh of relief, glad for the reprieve. “Now run along, because speaking of tests, your next one is tomorrow.”

“Oh yeah...Test of Mind,” he nods. Interestingly, he doesn’t seem as nervous about this one. “Right. Okay then, mom. Dad.” He gives them both a quick hug and kiss before setting off, yourself right behind him. “Phew...that was a weird day.”

No kidding.

Later that evening, as you’re settling in Lysan’s dorm, you find yourself musing on the day past, and what’s to come. For mostly just walking around, Lysan seems particularly quiet, though, hardly eating, and not even speaking to you directly.

>Ask to see that plate in private now. You want to take a closer look at it, just to be certain.
>Ask if he wants to talk about anything. He seems bothered, and that could be a problem later.
>You can let things lie for now- he’s clearly in no shape for anything, and you need to focus on tomorrow.
>Other

>>3022059
>>Ask if he wants to talk about anything. He seems bothered, and that could be a problem later.

>>3022059
>Ask if he wants to talk about anything. He seems bothered, and that could be a problem later.
>Other: Read that summoning book we got. If we are going to get a test of mind maybe we will need to know about pacts and stuff? Also ask Lysan if he has readi g the book beyond the veil and what he thinks about it so far.

>>3022059
>>Ask if he wants to talk about anything. He seems bothered, and that could be a problem later.

>>3022080
Ooh it's like a book club!

>>3022059
>>Ask if he wants to talk about anything. He seems bothered, and that could be a problem later.
Bleh, I say we should've traded.

>>3022059
>Ask if he wants to talk about anything. He seems bothered, and that could be a problem later.

We’ve got one more day off before the tests continue, right? We should get back to training him tomorrow. Maybe some marksmanship training?

>>3022099
Oh wait, never mind. More testing tomorrow. Still, no reason not to continue after the test...

>“I mean that if he Bonded with her by that agreement, and not the usual protection pact, then if he BREAKS that bond, it could mean a lot of trouble,” she admits

Oh Millie...you have no idea~

>>3022093
We could scan the things we got with the future sight. See if what we have is actually what the guy say it was.

Oh yeah, is Millie going to stick around for the end of the tests? She still needs to figure out where we come from.

>>3022059
>>Ask if he wants to talk about anything. He seems bothered, and that could be a problem later.
Let's get this squared away first. Depends on how it goes, we can ask for the plate after.

Writing!

You seem particularly nettled.

>too late to vote
>nobody voted to check for plate so my vote would have been useless anyway
I guess I should just be happy about Handler being in the process of writing the next part then.

>>3022209
We can check the plate next vote.We need to check what that fancy orb we got from the carnies is too.

>>3022114
>>3022215
Gotta figure out what the deal is with that mind-influencing plate so we can shenanigan somebody with it.

>>3022059
>>3022079
>>3022085
>>3022080
>>3022093
>>3022099
Well, his attitude could be an issue if this whole...whatever it is keeps up past the night. “Anything on your mind?” He looks up at you from whatever book he’s reading- not any of the ones you bought, though. Probably some type of schoolbook.

He’s got mild blush on his face, but he at least answers you after only a second or two. “Uh...nothing major. Just, y’know...today.” He chuckles lightly, heart not quite in it. “I guess part of it is that kinda should be asking you that, huh? What with the…” he motions with his hands all around his head, and you get the picture easily enough. "You're feeling alright, right? Nothing still in there about...y'know...the h-"

“I’m fine,” you reassure him quickly. “I’ve dealt with worse. You don’t need to worry about me.” What you ARE worried about is that focus plate, but otherwise… “You didn’t really answer my question.”

And then he blushes harder. “Wh-I mean, no, trust me, it’s fine! Just kinda letting everything else settle. Studying for the test helps.”

“Oh?” Curious. “I thought you wouldn’t know what the tests were in advance.”

“We don’t,” he agrees. “But that doesn’t mean I can’t guess. If this is the Test of Mind, and we already did puzzles as the Test of Clarity, Mind is...well...I HOPE it’s just kinda...a test, y’know? Like normal, only more. Although I’m not sure what that’d mean for you…” Okay, now he looks worried. “Crud. Maybe I should just sleep on it…” The sun HAS dipped past the horizon, but you get the feeling it’s a bit early for him. Maybe he just needs to- “Hey, Kyria? Thanks.”

Odd change. “Hm? For what?”

“For, y’know...grabbing me. Earlier. I’m not sure why I wanted to go down there, but I probably would’ve made a fool of myself. I...I’m not so great with crowds,” he admits shyly.

“Again, it wasn’t a problem,” you insist. “My job is to help you, and that generally includes physical dangers. Even if they don’t realize they’re getting themselves into danger.” Because goodness knows how often that would happen otherwise...

He lets out a single laugh. “Hah, right…” He mumbles something you’re not positive you want clarified, but otherwise silence reigns shortly afterwards- if a more companionable one.

>You can leave him be for a bit. Maybe look around, see if anyone can tip you off about the Test tomorrow.
>Perhaps now you can take a look at that plate- with his permission of course.
>...what’d he say?
>Other

>>3022343
>>Perhaps now you can take a look at that plate- with his permission of course.

>>3022343
>...what’d he say?
Use hearing boost in case he decides to mumble it.
>You can leave him be for a bit. Maybe look around, see if anyone can tip you off about the Test tomorrow.
Maybe see how Iris and Bellebell are doing.

>>3022343
>>Perhaps now you can take a look at that plate- with his permission of course.
If the plate is truly what it is, it might help us sell better the illusion that he is our summoner because he might be capable of influencing us to do stuff without saying it aloud.

>>3022343
>>Perhaps now you can take a look at that plate- with his permission of course.

>>3022343
>Perhaps now you can take a look at that plate- with his permission of course.

>>3022343
>Perhaps now you can take a look at that plate- with his permission of course.
And the orb
...what’d he say?
Supporting the vote for hearing boost

>>3022371
>...what’d he say?
Forgot to add the > in front of the vote.

>>3022343
>Perhaps now you can take a look at that plate- with his permission of course.
>Scan the orb thing and the summoning book with future sigth.

>>3022343
>...what’d he say?
After the big tent thing, I want to hear this.
>Perhaps now you can take a look at that plate- with his permission of course.

>>3022362
this is true. It also stop us havin to worry about filling the orb with mana.

>>3022362
That would require showing off this potentially extremely valuable item, and having people recognize it for what it is.

>>3022390
he doesn't need to show it tough. It can be hidden in between his shirts or something like that.

>>3022432
How is he going to sell the illusion without showing it?

>>3022343
Locked. Writing. Scrying. But not really.

>>3022445
because the idea we are trying to sell is that he has a mental link with us, not to show that he has a forked focus plate that can do so.

>>3022459
>the idea we are trying to sell is that he has a mental link with us,
And wearing the plate in a hidden location does that /how/?

>>3022469
Having it hidden means we're not showing it to people

>>3022469
it allows him to command us at a distance, makes the teachers believe the connection is genuine and keeps unwanted attention away .

>>3022481
One problem: We're not actually a summon, at least be the standards of this world. It shouldn't work on us anymore that it would on his sister.

>>3022486
but something definitely happened when we grabbed the plate. We might not be summons, but that thing did affect us.

>>3022493
That was in the middle of a mental attack, and it was apparently affecting him.

This should be easy enough to test, at least.

>>3022486
What makes you think his sister isn't a summon?
I'm really wishing we went to see Lysan's parents at work now, because I'm suspecting they're in some shenanigans with their "daughter" and "son".

>>3022343
>>3022355
>>3022362
>>3022365
>>3022370
>>3022371
>>3022375
>>3022379
You’ll leave behind what he said...for now, anyway. Right now, you’re a bit more concerned about something else. “Do you mind if I can see that ‘focus plate’ of yours?” you ask.

He gives you a concerned look. “Uhh, are you sure? The last time you took it from me…”

“It was under dubious circumstances,” you assure. “Besides, I trust that if something happens, you’ll get me out of it...” He blushes slightly. “I wouldn’t be able to do my job otherwise.”

“R-right. Okay, then. Here…” He reaches into a little sack, and pulls out the plate easily. It’s still largely as you recall it, but immediately something sticks out: the gold glowing isn’t there anymore. It’s a simple, dull brown. As you touch it, he flinches a bit, but you take the plate, and after a few moments of feeling nothing, decide that whatever happened in the carnival, it’s not happening here.

“Thought so,” you mutter to yourself as you stand up. “Give me a bit. I need to...check something.”

“Check what?” he asks, but you don’t say as you step out for a moment. Going behind his dorm and making sure there’s no one nearby (there isn’t), you pull out your FutureSight- funnily enough, it seems to have taken the form of a sort of ‘mirror’ with silver edging, and the buttons being ‘virtual’. It takes a few moments to scan the device, and several minutes that you largely spend mulling over potential combat strategies to start gathering information…

But eventually, there’s a small chime, and you finally have the information you want.

>Created approximately 300 years ago (local time).
>Apparent function: Extreme increase of local mana potency. Estimated 2.615 times Intersectional Standard. No known regulation security measure patterns detected.
>WARNING: CONTINUED OVERUSAGE OF THIS ARTIFACT MAY CAUSE THE FOLLOWING: MANA OVERLOAD, MANA BURNOUT, MENTAL DETERIORATION.

Oof. On the plus side, it seems to perform as advertised. On the other...ouch. Now...what to do with this knowledge…you’re fairly confident that there’s no way he can burnout anytime soon. And when he does, it’ll be far from your problem. May come in handy. Then again, if he’s told, he might just want to wreck the thing as soon as possible. Not that he doesn’t already have a clue...

>Tell him about the dangers.
>Don’t tell him about the dangers.
>Other

>>3022690
>Tell him about the dangers and point out it should be safe to use it at least once or twice
>ask to check the orb too

>>3022690
Would the negative side-effects occur even to magical girls?
We seem to have vast capacity and drainage of mana on regular basis.

>>3022690
>>Tell him about the dangers and point out it should be safe to use it at least once or twice
>>ask to check the orb too

>>3022690
>>3022711
In reverse order of priority. Learning first, teaching second.

>>3022690
Also tell him an enchantment on it is gone, and how we took a bullet for him.

>>3022690
>Check the orb
>Tell him about the dangers.
Geez, those are some major drawbacks.

>"While this can help you quite a bit, I fear that there are dangers to using this too often, particularly to your mind and your mana pool. Use it sparingly, and only as a final option."

>>3022690
>Tell him about the dangers.
Reckless kid.

>>3022690
Adding >>3022728 to my vote >>3022711
I think he deserves to know they tried to fuck with him.

>>3022690
>Check the orb
>Tell him about the dangers.

Man this looks like some kind of boosting drug. But in the form of a plate.

>>3022690
>>Tell him about the dangers.

2.615 as in 2615 or 2.615 as in between 2 and 3? not entirely sure how . or , are used in numbers in english

>>3022743
is 2.615 as in 2 and six tenths times the normal mana usage. Usually dots are to divide decimals from whole numbers while ',' are only used for grammar or to divide multiples of thousands.

>Created approximately 300 years ago (local time).

Man this shit is old. Wonder how much is it worth...

Also man if this was a show the shipping would have gone crazy with the hug scene.

>>3022752
thank you, where I live it's the other way around

Full disclosure. Also Orb check.

Writing!

>>3022783
If he asks us how we know, we asked our boss
Kinda, in a way.
We should call Sal at some point, didn't we have a question or two for him

>>3022816
There is no need to tell him we have a boss. with just telling him we are sure of it should suffice.

>>3022816
I think we wanted to make sure he didn't record that hugging scene back in the circus.

No need to mention Sal to him, though.

>>3022816
Won't don't tend to interact with him much while on job without a good reason. We talked to him a ways back about the other Outgoer; I don't think we have any other reason to bother him at the moment.


>>3022825
He would have been initially contacted by and hashed out a contract with Sal. That's how this job opening was generated.


While the situation to bring this about would be bad for us, someday I want to call in the calvary to help us finish a job. It just sounds like an awesome moment, in the classical sense.

>>3022829
You really think Sal would miss such oportunity?

>>3022861
He would have had to have been paying enough attention at the time to catch it. I don't think he looks over our shoulder like that, thankfully.

>>3022861
Miranda can dream, can't she?

>>3022690
>>3022711
>>3022724
>>3022725
>>3022730
>>3022731
>>3022739
>>3022741
>>3022743
Shaking your head, you go back inside. Better to let him know than not, all things considered. “Lysan?”

“Oh, that was quick!” He puts down a pencil he was writing into a notepad with, turning to you as he closes it. “What’s going on with you?”

“I...took a closer look at the focus plate, like I said,” you begin as you sit down. “And I’ve discovered a few things about it. Some good. Most not.”

“Oh…” his face twists into a frown at those words. “Uh, what’s the good, first?”

You place the plate on the small table in front of you. “That it really does increase your magical power. More than doubles it, in fact.” You can see his eyes widen as he takes that in. “So on that part, they weren’t joking.”

“Whoa...I really probably COULD control just about any summon if I had that much...most people take decades before they can double their output,” he muses. “But...you said there was more bad than good?”

“Right,” you affirm. “It could lead to burnout- when you overdraw on your magical power and it...well, your body can’t-”

“Augh, don’t worry,” he waves away with a grimace. “I know what burnout is. If...if you were a REAL summon I probably should’ve suffered it by now.” His expression drops into something more guilty, before you continue.

“Well, there’s also the fact that you could also overload, if you know what that is.” He nods. “And then there’s the most important part. If you use this thing too much...it can affect your mind.”

He groans. “The old guy kinda said it, too…”

“Well, to be fair, it should be safe to use a couple of times,” you admit. “Just so long as you don’t go crazy. Although that does remind me. What about the orb that I won for you?” You’d given that over as well, and he hands it to you with little fanfare. “Thanks. Just a moment, I’m going to check this, too.”

The same routine happens, and you get your findings for this, turning out there’s a bit more to it than at first implied…

>Created: < 1 day ago
>Apparent function: Local mana-link augmentation device. Permits synchronization of two disparate mana frequencies using the device as a central focus. Rate of synchronization is estimated at 95-100% (2% margin error). Mana capacity heightened by 0.2% (estimated) of baseline.
>CAUTION: MULTIPLE MANA FREQUENCIES MAY BE LINKED TO DEVICE, AT RISK OF INSTABILITY DEPENDING ON MANA USAGE. EXTREME INSTABILITY MAY LEAD TO STRUCTURAL FAILURE.

Huh. Well, that’s a nifty little object. At least it seems like the ringmaster was on the up and up. In fact, this could even be useful, if you wanted to try and convince him to let you have it. As an object of study for Owlia and Cylica, if nothing else. It looks kiiiinda like a crystal…

>Nah, you don’t really need it. Just tell him what it is.
>Yeah, you think you want this one. Just need to convince him...
>Other

>>3022877
>>Yeah, you think you want this one. Just need to convince him...

>>3022877
>Nah, you don’t really need it. Just tell him what it is.

>>3022877
Oh boy, Izumi would love this.
I guess we could ask for it, but it'd probably come out of our pay, speaking of, we should inquire how Lysan is paying.

I don't really understand how we could benefit from using this object. The usage for a summoner in this specific world is obvious but how would we benefit from it later on?

>>3022877
>>Nah, you don’t really need it. Just tell him what it is.
eeeh. i can't really think any ways we could use this thing that aren't related to this universe

>>3022877
>Yeah, you think you want this one. Just need to convince him...

i really want it specialy if we take the summoning book with us.

>>3022889
It could be used to channel mana into another spellcaster, much like Izumi supercharged our nebula buster in crystal world.

>>3022877
>Yeah, you think you want this one. Just need to convince him...
I don't see him getting much use out of it, and our gearheads likely could.


>Permits synchronization of two disparate mana frequencies using the device as a central focus.
>MULTIPLE MANA FREQUENCIES MAY BE LINKED TO DEVICE
Does this mean we could do a Friendship Fusion (tm)? We could be a real Magical Girl team!

>>3022888
If he can't pay Millie already said if we keep Lysan well protected she will talk with her folks so they will pay us.

>>3022893
>>3022895

but that will break the orb (and maybe explode?). if we really want a mana transfer unit, we can probably craft something better back at home. Specially since we already have the tools and know how.

>>3022889
Could be used to channel energy to someone or us3 mana to recharge someone reserve by siphoning our own mana to the synchronized person.

Just how it happen to Lori when she burnned out and she needed to recover by resting inside a ships mana enginne?

>>3022877
>>Yeah, you think you want this one. Just need to convince him...

>>3022901
Our egg heads would take a look honestly we are only guessing what it could do. Besides the techno magic stuff from the grey codex that we will bring home to Owlia

>>3022877
>Yeah, you think you want this one. Just need to convince him...
I wonder if we could use it to suck mana out of some unlucky person

>>3022915
Could even work as a tracker since the summoner can sense were a summon is thanks to the link.

>>3022911
I don't think this is worth it because it sounds an awful lot like the mana harmonization we tested with lorelei combined with a magical transformer(the electric one, not the robot kind). The only thing that sounds worth it is the Codex and i'm not so sure about it either. Everything seems too locked to this universe and sounds too "outdated" to what we have on the intersection. Even something like this >>3022915
could be done in the intersection faster.

>>3022877
>Yeah, you think you want this one. Just need to convince him...

>>3022877
Can we convince him to let us hold onto it to channel mana into HIM?
Then just y'know, casually forget to give it back before we leave.

>>3022939
Theft is bad anon, especially if we're hoping for another potential client in his sister.

>>3022933
I mean, we got it for free.
That's cheaper than the intersection for sure.

>>3022951
yeah, free, but i doubt it will survive any of the stress test it will suffer in our hands.

>>3022933
Think like this...if we buy stuff i the intersection we are spending motes. If we get this and manage to take it to the two scientist we have in our place we might be able to develop free shit without spending motes into a finished product.

But that is assuming the Intersection has anything like this there. I mean you saw what happend with the big crystal companies when Owlia's girlfriend got to the intersection.

Want.

Writing.

>>3022964
It won't be in our hands we will be giving it to Owlia and Cylica. You know the two scientist who focused in crystal tech?

>>3022933
Intersection prices are high, especially anything intended for Outgoer use. Heck, it's not uncommon to spend most of our paycheck on clothes, and we're not exactly the girly type.

>>3022964
We have no indication of its max intended load, build quality, or other markers of its ability to withstand us.

>>3022967
>>3022983
I never said to buy an equivalent there and either way we will be spending motes on R&D to convert something from another universe into a "standard" format that everyone on the group can use. Either way, Owlia and cylica treat magic as something akin to electricity, if their monologues with John are something to believe; creating a heavy duty magic transformer shouldn't be that hard to accomplish. We already have the mana crystals and the ambient condensers to work from, you would just need to combine and you are done.

>>3022983
But considering that we are very high on the power scale right here and then knowing that we are a middle-ish weight class on the intersection should give you an idea that that thing won't withstand any kind of heavy duty workload.

>>3022983
>we're not exactly the girly type.
That's like, your opinion man.

>>3023009
If you use Lorelei bar highest mark as a girly type Miranda isn't.

I would say the bar would be:
-Lorelei
-Awoo girl
-Prima
-Cylica
-Izumi
-Miranda
-Owlia
-Jango

>>3023071
I'd put miranda above Izumi and Mono behind Cylica

>>3023003
>will be spending motes on R&D
R&D motes are already spent, with or without this theoretical project.

>convert something from another universe into a "standard" format that everyone on the group can use.
We haven't had to do that with anything else acquired on job before, no reason to expect it now.

> creating a heavy duty magic transformer shouldn't be that hard to accomplish
Don't speak of fields you don't have experience in. We have no idea what's easy or hard to do with magicineering.

>very high on the power scale right here and then knowing that we are a middle-ish weight class on the intersection
And the carines who gave it to us had at least one other extremely powerful item they just gave away in a contest. And the oddities tent guy was one of the worst smelling we're seen in quest.

>>3022877
>>3022879
>>3022892
>>3022895
>>3022909
>>3022915
>>3022937
All things considered...you might actually keep this one around. You’re not sure if it’ll be able to handle all of your capacity (if it needs to) but at the very least your local nerds should be get a kick out of it. Hopefully they can work their own special brand of magic on it.

Ah, but first you’re getting ahead of yourself. You step back inside- this time, he doesn’t react so surprised, greeting you with a nod. You simply set the orb on the table. “It’s fine,” you admit to him. “No major drawbacks or anything. But, well...don’t know how much you’ll get out of it. Might be better to just let me hang onto it.”

“Wait, what?” That gets him looking at you. “Why wouldn’t I want it?”

“Well…” you shrug. “Could get some use out of it, I suppose. But it might be a chore for not much out of it.”

He sighs, heading to the bathroom. “I’ll think about it, I guess. Maybe ask for a second opinion. But for now, we probably should be getting to bed soon.”

Well, blah. You suppose that you didn’t exactly give him a major reason, but you’ve got time to convince him.

So far, so good. Tomorrow, comes time for the next test...

(Breaking for now. Will resume tomorrow!)