>>5029050
>Equipment And Loot Organization; we need to make sure we're not carrying around dead weight.

>>5029050
>Equipment And Loot Organization; we need to make sure we're not carrying around dead weight.
Finally.

>>5029050
>Equipment And Loot Organization; we need to make sure we're not carrying around dead weight

Writing!

>>5029050
>>5029056
>>5029062
>>5029069
“Alright, let’s get down to it,” you decide. “Everyone bought their bags and crap, right?” Round of nods from everyone. “Grand. Alright, we’ve got a vendor...sorta...so we should put it to use. Whoever DOESN’T want their crap or weapons, let me know now and put it on the table. We’ll tally it all up at the end and see what we can get from it all.” You give everyone a look. “Fair warning right now, this goes into the community pool for further HQ improvements, or if anyone needs an emergency loan, you’re NOT getting this back immediately. If anyone has any gear they ABSOLUTELY WANT to keep, let me know as well so I can keep a log of it.”

Prima and Jago both raise their hands. “We both got some nifty toys from th’ last trip, ‘apppens.” He looks to Prima, who nods. “Yeah, we’re both holdin’ onta those.” He brings out what looks to you for all the world like a steam powered mallet, though in his hands it’s closer to a warhammer. “Came ta enjoy this ‘un’. Nice an’ punchy when ya pull the trigger ‘ere.”

Prima shows off a weapon as well; some sort of...short pole with a disk at the end? It doesn’t look quite like a metal detector... “It is an electronically sensitive scanner. However, that includes bioelectric signals. I have found it useful for both medical diagnostics, and tracking procedures.”

Huh. Well, then. “Alrighty, anyone else?” A round of shaking heads. “Okay, then. What’s going on the table?”

>Information on gear and weapons can be found in the Spreadsheet.

>>5029162
Since we're not using them much, I'm voting to give these out.

>Knight's Halberd
>Blightsnake Katar
>K5 Bolt Pistol

I'm debating on giving out the Gaia too, since whatever it can do we already have other tools for.

Also is this where we give the nerds their stuffs?

>>5029162
gonna take some time for me to finish my list

>>5029162
>>5029170
Adding in. This is my list if we're giving out the Gaia too:

>Knight's Halberd
>Blightsnake Katar
>K5 Bolt Pistol
>Gaia
>The Fairy statues
>Anga Totem, Yuyula Totem
>Purple Razor-Shield
>Forest Bow
>Mysterious Green Orb
>Mysterious Wand
>Cleric's Staff
>Repeater Flintlock Pistol
>Everblade
>Anga's Guandao.

>>5029179
Yeah, this seemed to be the most wanted thing, so I'm expecting it to take some time. Part of me even though it might be a good idea to go out for a bit and then come back.

>>5029162
Weapons:
>Multi-missle Launcher
Never use it.
>Blightsnake Katar
Cool, might make a neat costume piece, but we don't use knives.
>Switchblade
You kidding me?
>Purse Gun
See switchblade comment.
>Hunting Spear
We use the Halberd just slightly more, and we might as well keep one polearm in our inventory.


Personally, I'd keep the Knight's Halberd so we can start teaching Harp how to use polearms. Maybe enchant it or the Hunting Spear.

>>5029162
I think we should keep at least one firearm, so I'd like to keep the K5 bolt pistol. Also, I don't know what to do with the new Coilgun - we don't usually engage from such distances and now we have a cool anti-magic crossbow. Maybe we can give it to Izumi? She's supposed to get to A rank with us, it might help her on her solo missions

>Community Pool - handouts
Purse Gun - one of the recruit could use it
Knight's Halberd - maybe Harp could try it later on, something like that was mentioned in the last thread
Draining Combat Knife - we have a giant faemetal sword, crystal bird and a regular survival knife, so it's become obsolete now
Gaia MBR - we were supposed to get a mundane weapon to blend in in low mana worlds, then bought a magical one and it becomes useless next mission against an anti-magic creature. what a joke
Blightsnake Katar
Precursor Multi-Missile Launcher - we already have Highball Launcher, one of our Enforcers should have it (Mono or Jago)
Anga's Guandao - for one of the minibots
Everblade
Purple Razor-Shield - I think Izumi should have it - she can both reinforce the shield and enhance the hidden blades
Mysterious Wand - give it to Jago, he has earth mana affinity
Forest Bow
Buckler
Cleric's Staff

>Sell
Hunting Spear
Flintlock Pistol
Customized Flintlock Pistol
Flintlock Repeater
Switchblade

>Lab Donations
Faemetal (scraps, liquid samples, heavyweighted sphere, futuresight scan of the fairy boy) - don't think our nerds could replicate it but maybe they can make arrow/bolt tips for bows/crossbows and bullets for guns
Fairy Statues (red, white, blue, green)
Fairy Totems (Anga, Yuyula)
Anti-magic Fiber clothes (overcoat, officer's armor and helmet, scan of the Queenstone Robe)
Mana Siphon related stuff (scan of the device and the drained earth element gem that we've snatched)
Wind Gem
Mysterious Green Orb
Healing Herbs, Sweetsap Mushrooms and Acorn?- for our alchemist
Book Scans (‘The Breath of Life’, ‘The Myriad Ways of Inner Manipulation’, ‘Transitory Nature of the Abyss and is far thinner’)

>>5029162
>>5029221
Giving this my vote.
BUT I still want to keep the Coilgun. Mages aren't known for their dexterity so even though we suck at sniping it's still an option.

>>5029226
I mean, our new crossbow has enchantments that enhance it's speed, range and power, and we got a new scope for it - I think we can snipe folks with it just fine.

>>5029162
>>5029221
almost forgot
>Send recordings of the experimental gear tests: Synth-Seither Pills, Operation Z1 and Revitalization Barrier

>>5029221
>>5029182
Going with this for the most part, with the following exceptions...

Personally, I think we should keep the Everblade for one of the kids, and find another two enchanted swords for the other two, so we can give them as graduation presents. After all, it seems like the most common enchanted weapon across most of the multiverses are swords, so it makes sense to give them each one when they're ready. Just gotta train them in swordplay for later...

Anga's Guandao, I'd like to keep around, just to say we've got a polearm to practice with Harp. See if we can enchant it with some fire magic, maybe?

File: looting the elder fairy.jpg (61 KB, 1305x394)

61 KB JPG

>>5029232
Anga was a small fairy, the weapon's size was a perfect fit for minibots - it would be too small for anyone else.

>>5029233
>Anga was a small fairy, the weapon's size was a perfect fit for minibots

Ah, I wasn't around for the latter half of that mission. In that case, yeah, give it to them and keep the Eversword for one of the kids. Maybe Noran? He's got the fairy pal in Mewla, we could have him be a more talkative Link expy.

Right, I'm giving it 30 more minutes and then I'm locking and writing for >>5029221, just in case anyone has any counterpoints.

>>5029162
>>5029221
This is fine. The crossbow's good for mid-ranged skirmishes but I'd like to keep the sniper rifle too for super long-ranged eliminations.
I feel like we should ask the team if they want to have dibs on any of our loot first.

>>5029162
And I'd like to keep the Everblade as well.
It's a Holy weapon which will be extra effective against certain foes, like the undead.

>>5029245
Guess we're keeping the holy sword and the coilgun
>>5029246
>>5029253
>>5029239
>>5029226

>>5029253
We really got to start practicing wielding two weapons at once. Just imagine if we could wield our spell enhancing rapier and a faemetal forged spell-parrying dagger.

>>5029275
>faemetal forged spell-parrying dagger
it's not a dagger, it's a big-ass morphing sword

>>5029275
iirc we actually can, just not specialized in it. And the morph-blade's a greatsword.
I do like the idea of that however, for a "geek the mage" arsenal.

>>5029276
>>5029279
Wasn't talking about the morph-blade, anons. Was talking about a possible new weapon.

I wonder how our birb is doing

Hey, we handed over most of the mushrooms we got on the last mission to the lab so we can grow some more, right? It's been a while, and I wasn't paying attention...

>>5029291
I put the sleep-inducing Sweetsaps on the list, but not the others since they had no special effects. Should we add them as well?

>>5029297
>>5029245
Why not? Our technicians always need more material.

>>5029245
>>5029291
>>5029300
right, throwing in Dragonsbreath, Navamund, Longdrift mushrooms as well

>>5029297
Probably should, let's keep one patch for the lab to use as components and reagents, and one patch for Mewla's snacks.

>>5029162
>>5029221
>>5029226
>>5029229
>>5029232
>>5029246
>>5029253
A lot of your own gear is tossed onto the table, though a few of the others have some things to give, too. “I don’t think this morningstar fits me,” Izumi muttered while throwing it onto the table, along with a selection of daggers.

“I’ve been needing to do some cleaning out myself,” adds Lorelei as several olde-timey rifles and pistols get added. “But geez, ‘Randa. Didn’t know you were a pack rat.”

“I’ve been busy,” you mutter as the pile grows. “Just haven’t really thought about it until recently.” You’re keeping that holy sword and the Coilgun- the sword...dunno, maybe a good backup tool, and there’s several of these weapons you think would make good gifts for the kids once they’re out- and trained. “Honestly, I wonder if a lot of this might be better off in a community pool. Might not use most of it, but I think the newer ones on the team?” you mention, motioning towards Mono and the bots in particular. “They might find some use out of a couple.”

“Hey, free stuff!” Mono cheers. “I’m for it!”

“Grand. That said, there’s some stuff I’m sure I’d want to sell…” mostly firearms, as you partition it all out; some pistols and a couple blades. “As for the rest…lesse. Purse gun. Anyone? No? Community, then.” Maybe one of the kids. “I liked this Halberd, I’m thinking keeping it for one of the kids…ah. Multi Missile Launcher. Never really used this...who-”

“Mine!” Jago calls immediately. It’s slid over to him.

“Got this mini Guandao off an Elder Fire Spirit,” you say, holding it up in one arm. “Prima, want it? Could be something to help cauterize with if nothing else.” You also want it for help with self-defense, but you’re not going to mention that, not that it isn’t obvious.

“...I...suppose it might be worthwhile, then, yes,” she agrees, and takes the weapon to store it.

“Hm...holy blade. Think I’m keeping that,” you mutter. “...ah, razor-shield. Who might want that? Izumi?” You look to her.

“Hmm. Such weapons are often unwieldy in practice...but it IS novel. I’ll at least try it out,” she decides. That’s another one gone.

“Ah. Earthen Wand,” you say, pulling it out. “I hate these things. I’m not even sure it’s Earth element, I’m just guessing. Anyone here want it?” Blank stares all around. “No one? Jago, aren’t you earth affinity?”

“...yeh, but I ain’t ‘zactly one ta wave wands around an’ whatnot,” he dismisses.

“Alright...going once, going twice, into the community bucket it goes.”

>THE FOLLOWING HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED TO THE COMMUNITY POOL OF WEAPONS:

-Purse Gun
-Knight's Halberd
-Draining Combat Knife
-Gaia MBR
-Blightsnake Katar
-Mysterious Wand
-Forest Bow
-Buckler
-Cleric's Staff

>THE FOLLOWING HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED TO IZUMI:
-Razor-Shield

>THE FOLLOWING HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED TO JAGO:
-Precursor Multi-Missile Launcher

>THE FOLLOWING HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED TO PRIMA:
-Anga's Guandao

(cont)

>>5029306
“Right, so, moving on, got some materials and non-violence stuff, too. Just sitting there for me, but our science crew might be able to do something with them.”

Owlia shrugs, grinning. “Depends! Some stuff is too wild to take root here I’ve found out, but yeah, so long as you don’t expect anything major soon.”

“Nah, I mean more as maybe supplements to what you’re already working on,” you affirm. “There’s this faemetal stuff in particular that might interest you. If you could integrate it into any of your current projects, that’d be neat, but it’s all just curiosity stuff to keep you busy if you want it.” You still remember how she’d taken umbrage before at your constant piling on of projects for her. She (and you) are better about it now, you’d like to think, but you occasionally worry about backsliding. “Just split it amongst yourselves. Who knows, maybe they’ll come in handy.

>YOU HAVE GIFTED THE RESEARCH DIVISION WITH THE FOLLOWING:
-Faemetal Material
-Fairy Statues
-Fairy Totems
-Anti-magic Fiber Clothes
-Mana Siphon, Drained Earth Element Device Scan
-Wind Gem
-Mysterious Green Orb
-Healing Herbs, Dragonsbreath, Navamund, and Longdrift Mushrooms, Sweetsap Mushrooms, and Acorn(?)
-Book Scans (‘The Breath of Life’, ‘The Myriad Ways of Inner Manipulation’, ‘Transitory Nature of the Abyss’)

After all of that’s squared away, finally what’s left is the sellables. “Okay, so, not much to say on these, I think. We can put these out and hopefully get some decent Motes for them.”

>YOU HAVE LOST ACCESS TO THE FOLLOWING:

-Hunting Spear
-Flintlock Pistol
-Customized Flintlock Pistol
-Flintlock Repeater
-Switchblade

>IZUMI HAS LOST ACCESS TO THE FOLLOWING:

-Morningstar

>LORELEI HAS LOST ACCESS TO THE FOLLOWING:

-Manastone Shotgun
-Carving Knife
-Western Rifle
-Western Pistol
-High Powered Magnet

>ESTIMATED RETURN: 18 LOTES

"...not a lot, but then again, we're still keeping most of the good stuff for ourselves," you admit.

"Hey, at least we don't have to worry about them anymore," Lorelei shrugs.

"Alright, then," you decide. "With that finally taken care of, should we get to the last item on my list? That being arranging a training day soon, and general catchup on physical wellbeing."

"If it's happening, I need it to be tomorrow," Izumi notes. "I don't have another day off available for a while."

"Fine with me," Lorelei shrugs. You get similar confirmations around the table.

>Any objections or other points of issue?

>>5029342
Fine by me. Everyone obviously has their own businesses to sort out, so two entire days might be too much.

>>5029342
how much time would it take for the new rooms to finish?

>>5029353
About a week due to the cleanroom's special aspects.

>>5029342
>No objections

>>5029342
Voting to move on. Here's hoping we don't botch our learning rolls.

Will resume tomorrow!

>>5029386
Thanks for running

>>5029342
We forgot something.
We didn't give O&C the Operation Z1's experiment data (that prototype unit/grenade thing that we also trashed near the finish line last job?) and the broken clockwork turret.

If these are true, I vote to return them now.

>>5029575
my post with additions got tagged>>5029229, so I think we already gave them the results
>>5029342
but yeah, we forgot about the brave little turret

>>5029342
>>5029575
Yup, don't see anything like that on the list.

Took a while, had to have basically a day to myself. So, we'll add that experiment data to the list, and move on.

Writing.

>>5029342
>>5029352
>>5029366
>>5029388
>>5029609
>>5029575
>>5029722
You look around, to see none to speak of. “Alrighty, then, we’ll schedule a full-day training exercise tomorrow, then. Owlia, Cylica, before I forget, there's a few more data points from some experiments I need to forwards the data from- Z1 in particular." She squees upon hearing THAT. "...right. Everyone make sure to get here bright and early, refreshments, all that stuff. At this point, all points that I wanted to bring up are cleared out- floor’s open for comment, if you will.”

Surprisingly quickly, Mono raises her hand. “Yeah? So I ‘kin ask somethin’?” You nod. “Right, soo...basically, I was wonderin’...whaddya do when you got a job you wanna do but don’t think you can pull it off?”

“Kinda but don’t?” You raise an eyebrow. “That doesn’t make sense. What do you mean?”

“Well, like...I ain’t got one of those fancy Future-things like you guys, so I can’t show you all the details, but it was somethin’ about a ‘dreamtime’? And stealin’ some sorta crystals or something? I’m not a hundred percent sure. An’ sure, that’s fine as it is, but the job mentioned somethin’ about a ‘Designated Role’ add on or something. I forget it, just it seems a mite rough.” She huffs. “It’s a heck of a part to play, though…”

“Go for it anyways!” Lorelei cheers. “We all gotta botch our first job sooner or later! Preferably sooner!”

“...quite the vote of confidence,” Izumi says dryly. “However, I agree in that there is no reason not to try a job that you may not be entirely confident in. Every venture is a learning experience.”

She hems and haws. “Well, maybe I should bring a partner? It was said they could afford two…” she waffles.

“Naw, go it alone!” Lorelei continues. “Never gonna get used to it if you don’t!”

“Actually, I don’t think it’d be too bad to have an experienced hand along,” Izumi counters. “She’s had one before, has she not? It’s just more of the same.”

“But that’s STILL giving her a cushion! She’s gotta fly solo EVENTUALLY,” Lorelei rebuts.

“Perhaps, yes, but not when she’s so new to not just Outgoer work, but combat and action in general,” Izumi states. “She’s still so new that I doubt she’ll understand what she did wrong if she DOES do something wrong.”

“Me an’ Cy still go on joint outings,” Owlia opines. “I kinda get Izumi’s stance on it.”

“Actually, t’was thinking on going solo meself for once,” Jago comments.

“As did I,” Prima notes.

As for you…

>You think she should have someone backing her if she’s unsure. It’ll help her learn much more efficiently with a second pair of eyes.
>Lorelei has a point- she needs to get used to not just going in solo on the easy jobs, but the dicer ones, too.
>Other

>>5030565
>You think she should have someone backing her if she’s unsure. It’ll help her learn much more efficiently with a second pair of eyes.
They're still too green

>>5030565
>You think she should have someone backing her if she’s unsure. It’ll help her learn much more efficiently with a second pair of eyes.
Mono seems to be unsure of her acting ability so I think asking Lorelei to go with her would be a good idea.

>>5030565
>>You think she should have someone backing her if she’s unsure. It’ll help her learn much more efficiently with a second pair of eyes.

Confidence is built up over time step by step, not by being pushed from a cliff.

>>5030565
>You think she should have someone backing her if she’s unsure. It’ll help her learn much more efficiently with a second pair of eyes.
>Suggest Lorelei
>Other
Tell her your experience of botching a job, this will help her confidence.

Lorelei is the most suitable since this one has something similar to a Binding Narrative and involves infiltration/theft. Mono will learn a lot with her around.

>>5030565
>>5030569
>>5030572
This. Mono doesn't have a Futuresight and we all know how busted it is.
By the way, make sure you don't forget to include Revitalization Barrier's test data.

>>5030565
>>You think she should have someone backing her if she’s unsure.
Don’t suggest Lorelei, though.

>>5030565
>You think she should have someone backing her if she’s unsure. It’ll help her learn much more efficiently with a second pair of eyes.

>>5030565
She should have someone go with her, but on the understanding that she is the one doing the mission and that they only take over if things get too dicey.

Seems like it's pretty unanimous. But it seems there's a single sticking point...writing.

>>5030565
>>5030567
>>5030569
>>5030570
>>5030572
>>5030681
>>5030775
>>5030921

“Hmmm...honestly, I think it might be better to have someone backing you up for now,” you proclaim. Lorelei rolls her eyes but says nothing, Jago just shrugs, Prima doesn’t seem to react, while the others nod in agreement. “Confidence is built up over time step by step, not by being pushed from a cliff- at least in my opinion. I can still recall how I felt about my first blunders, and frankly, I could’ve done without them, learning experience or no.”

“Kay, then. Soooo...anyone wanna come with?” Mono posits out to the crowd. “I mean, I’m guessin’ Lori’s out-”

“Hey, don’t put words in my mouth!” Lori objects. She then grins, starts to open her mouth to say something else- but then pauses, shakes her head. “I’m just sayin’ I think you should have some ‘you time’ on a dicey job, is all. But if you reealllly want the help, sure, I’d help. You’re family now, girl!”

“I would not want to leave my dance partner out in the lurch,” Prima chimes in, and Jago nods in agreement.

“Aw, thanks.” Mono even seems to blush a bit. “Right, then, sooo...hmmm.” She looks at you, and you just shrug. “Well, thinkin’ about it, I’d really appreciate it if-”

>You
>Izumi
>Lorelei
>Cylica
>Owlia
>Nura
>Prima
>Jago

"-came along."

>>5031129
>Lorelei
Same argument as before.

>>5031129
>>Prima

>>5031138
This is her chance to try out her new biomech body - it was designed for infiltration. Prima's analytical skills and scanning ability could also be of help. I think they'd work well together.

>>5031129
I was gonna to suggest Izumi because she's more well-rounded and they both use swords, but Lorelei's decent too.

This opens Izumi up if we take her to our next job.

>>5031129
I'll go with Prima so she can test her biomech body. Haven't seen either her or Jago use it.

>>5031129
By the way, doesn't Miranda have to stay in the Intersection for the filming?

Prima it is. Writing!

>>5031161
It'd probably be a good idea, yes, but Outgoer jobs supercede outside projects were you to take one.

>>5031164
Doesn't this warrant a tie-breaker? >>5031156

>>5031131
>>5031156
>>5031158

>>5031165
I had interpreted it as for Izumi, but I can see how that could be taken for either. In which case perhaps so. If anyone doesn't vote for

>Lorelei
or
>Prima

within the next 10 minutes, I'll just flip for it.

>>5031167
Yeah that was a Lorelei vote, sorry for the ambiguity.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>5031167

1= Lori
2= Prima

>>5031177
Ahh, that's a shame. But newbies bonding together ain't that.

So when are we going to pick up our crystal bird?

>>5031193
Prob when the doctor calls.

>>5031129
>>5031138
>>5031158
>>5031177
“Oh! I could do that, yes,” Prima says. “Dance partners stick together, correct?”

“Kinda, yeah…” she admits with a soft grin. You have to admit, for a girl that’d never even had the concept of an automaton run through her head not that long ago, she seems to have become fast friends with one.

“Of course! Perhaps this would be a good opportunity for me to utilize my biomech suit. I have yet to take on a job that required it.” Oh, good point. “I will likely require assistance in transferring to it, however…”

“Oh, no prob,” Owlia offers. “I should be able to help with that; took a little looksee at it from time and time, and with your schematics, it shouldn’t be too hard to shift your core into it.”

“You an’ me are gonna have a heckofa time, Pri,” Mono says happily. Prima’s eyes light up in a smile, and there’s a moment of good feelings all around.

But, it has to pass. “Alrighty, then. Anything else someone wants to bring up?”

“Just that I’ll have more time hereabouts,” Cylica grouses. A look around tells you that no one else has anything more to say.

“Alrighty, then. Meeting’s over with, everyone’s dismissed. Remember, be here tomorrow for practice. I’ll send you all the time in a bit.” With that, everyone goes their separate ways...sort of. Mono and Prima (along with Jago) begin talking, and Lorelei joins in, Izumi’s off to do something, and Owlia and Cylica along with Nura start heading back to the laboratory- likely to discuss their new assignments. Ah, you still need to make sure to get them that data- and that busted up turret.

It’s as you’re handling all that, that you consider what else you need to do today…

>You’re getting your bird and going to the Coven’s HQ. You’ll be a bit early, but they shouldn’t mind...right?
>You might want to check in on the movie studio. Just to make sure things aren’t entirely turned on their head.
>Other; there's probably something else you need to take care of you've blanked on.

>>5031216
>You’re getting your bird and going to the Coven’s HQ. You’ll be a bit early, but they shouldn’t mind...right?
Were we also supposed to discuss the Outgoer company ranking list we got from Delilah with the Coven? Because I thought we were going to do that at some point.

>>5031216
>You’re getting your bird and going to the Coven’s HQ. You’ll be a bit early, but they shouldn’t mind...right?
>Other
Bring our bag of holding. Whatever Susie requested will require some roughhousing and being early and prepared will make a great impression.

>>5031216
>>You’re getting your bird and going to the Coven’s HQ. You’ll be a bit early, but they shouldn’t mind...right?
>Other; there's probably something else you need to take care of you've blanked on.
>Pick up permanence-treated items (Bracers, Sky God's Hammer, Golden Crossbow, Queenstone Robe) and the Morphblade from blacksmith

>>5031216
>>5031219
>>5031226
These, might as well make use of the extra time.

>>5031226
Since we're keeping the Everblade now, should we get a price quote on premanance-treating that, too?

>>5031216
>>5031229
Oh! Nice catch on that one. Let's get it treated too.

>>5031232
Might as well ask Prima and Izumi if they want the Guandao and Razor-Shield treated as well so we can get a discount. Maybe tell them they can pay us back with a souvenir from their jobs if they feel like it.

>>5031243
>>5031216
I think they'll know in time but, won't hurt to pass a word.

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50 KB JPG

Company full of goth chicks, here we go!

Alright. I'll make sure to write all that out for tomorrow. Including for the Guild, who I think'll be fun times. At least, I've had some ideas for them for a while, and considering the season, I think it's apt.

>>5031288
Thanks for the run. Can't wait for this bunch.

File: 20211013_153408.png (758 KB, 608x1069)

758 KB PNG

>>5029050
My wife

Writing!

>>5031216
>>5031218
>>5031219
>>5031226
>>5031227
>>5031232
Well, heck with it. You’ve got some extra time, might as well go get your pet. You’ve no reason to assume the worst, you think.

Fortunately, the trip over is fairly standard; the receptionist greets you with recognition, thanking you again for sending over ‘the technician’. “It’s no problem- but at the moment I’m just here to get my bird.”

“Of course! There was nothing to worry about last I was told…” she buzzes you in, past a stoneman with a few chips in his face, and you’re seen to the recovery room.

“Mmmm...good to see you again.” The good doctor welcomes. “Your pet...is fine.” He waves you to the back, and fortunately, you can see your bird...still as plump as ever, but clearly hopping around a bit more, and it gives a tinkling chirp upon seeing you. You don’t know why you were worried it might’ve forgotten you- it was only for a day or so… “Healthy little thing,” he says with a rumbling smile. “I might suggest a feed for it, however.”

You raise an eyebrow as Pecker flaps up to its familiar place on your head. Good to be home, Pecker. “Feed? I thought it didn’t need to eat.”

“Here? Yes. Mana.” Oh, right. “But, not much. Not unless it exerts itself. Crushed mana stones will do well for it. Pebbles infused with mana. That is all. It can expend the mana well enough now.” Ah, right. Well, that’s good. And crushed or half-busted stones shouldn’t be too hard to come by. “I have a packet for it here…as thanks.” Oh, that’s nice. “One small bowl every few days. This should last for some time.” As you take it, you can’t help but wonder how that whole process is gonna work...

Still, its appreciated. “Thanks a lot.”

“No, thank you,” he offers. “Be on your way, now.”

And so, with bird on head, you walk off. Hopefully that’s that for this little thing…but there’s a bit more that you need to pick up. Well, if they’re done. “Hello? Grizzi?”

“Aye?” you hear on the other end of the phone.

“It’s Miranda Styles. Was wondering how’s progress on my gear.”

“Ach, right. You’re stuff’s set an’ done. Re-treated Morph-Blade wit’ anti-magic properties, an’ a dozen crossbow bolt casings. Come get ‘em when you’re set. An’ don’t break the blasted thing again!”

“No promises.” You hang up over the angry sputtering. Pecker just chirps in seeming amusement.

Picking up your other weaponry proves quick enough, and you have to admit, Prianna's proved...just fine. The human-sized faewoman seems to appreciate the business. But that does remind you...

"Oh, my my my...wherever did you get such a weapon as this?" she asks in her lilting voice as she examines the Everblade from every angle. "Quite elegant, indeed!" Her wings flutter in excitement. "Why, it reminds me of home a touch. Perhaps I can do this one for Seven Large Motes? Yes, seven. Seven is a good number."

>Agree
>Disagree (Haggle)
>Other

>>5032061
>>Agree
Her prices are WAY cheaper compared to the old guy who treated Flamebringer and Rapier.

>>5032061
>Agree
Girl deserves it, the price is good for the quality she provides.

>>5032061
>Agree
Gotta admit, I'm liking her more than the previous guy.

>>5032061
>Agree
No objections here.

>>5032061
>>Agree

>>5032061
>>5032068
>>5032070
>>5032072
>>5032073
>>5032076
Wrrriting!

>>5032061
>>5032068
>>5032070
>>5032072
>>5032073
>>5032076
“Done,” you decide. She’s WAY cheaper than the other guy.

“Ohoho! Excellent, excellent! The others were fascinating, but this is nostalgic, yes! It will be treated with the utmost care!” Lovely. “Tis a shame at once that we have to part…your scent is of old friends and good times. And blood, a great deal of blood. But blood is in everyone, so that’s of little concern.” Uhhhh...hm. Right, then, you should probably get going.

>Current Motes: 104.50 Lotes

With the Bracers, Sky God’s Hammer, Golden Crossbow, and Queenstone Robe back in your possession, you have a check at the time- it’s maybe just broaching afternoon.

Getting there early shouldn’t be too big of an issue. Now, you just need to find the place…

The trip takes longer than you honestly expect- mostly due to traffic, honestly. But when you arrive...well, you suppose you should’ve expected this.

It’s a rather large, three story house. Old Victorian style, if you had to guess- your stock ‘spooky manor’ that seems to exist everywhere. Classic. Spiderwebs are everywhere, there’s pumpkins, dead flowers...but what tips you off that the place is currently lived in is the surprisingly large lawn- one that normal earners wouldn’t be able to afford. It’s enough for several people to run around and be active. That and the mailbox. It’s immaculately kept. The stone path to the house is cracked and broken, the fence is crooked and everything, the lawn decorations- one-eyed gnomes, spiders that may not actually be decoration, and gargoyles- all look standard, but the small things stick out if you know what to look for. “Guess this is the place…”

You take a singular step onto the property. And almost immediately several of the ornaments shift, slowly- looking at you.

Right, this kinda place. Snorting lightly, and taking Pecker off your head to cradle him (you’d rather not any accidents occur from his panic) you step along the path to the doorway.

...yeah, they’re watching you. You knock on the door. “Hello?” It’s Miranda Styles; I know I’m here a bit early, but you-”

The door creeeeaks open, ever so slowly, and...whoa. Inside is pitch-black. Not ‘dark’. You can see absolutely nothing whatsoever beyond the door’s frame. For a few moments, you stand there silently, and for a bit it seems like no one will be greeting you. Are you supposed to go in by-

A hairy, spindly arm- you’re not sure if it’s human or not- suddenly lunges out of the nothingness, and before you can say anything else, you’re yanked beyond the threshold.

(cont.)

>>5032115
For a moment, your instincts flare up and you make to get the arm off you- but the individual lets you go just as quickly, and you hear the door shut behind you as you take in your new surroundings- very much visible, now, if maybe a bit dim.

It’s...surprisingly well-kept. The old-time aspect is still present, with yourself clearly in a foyer; to your right and left are red velvet stool seats, with a small doorway on the left leading elsewhere. Twin, ebony staircases curve up to the second floor balcony, lined by torches that provide light, but beyond on the first floor directly ahead of you is a set of double doors leading to the rest of the manor. It all very much has a rustic look to it, but again, surprisingly well kept. Although you don’t see the individual who- oh, wait.

You look straight up, and indeed are faced with someone- a spider-like individual, though unlike the ones in your jobs prior, they are no taur-like individual, no, this lady’s a touch more humanoid; her torso and abdomen (complete with spinnerets behind her, explaining her upside down position) are a touch big and shaped just oddly enough to notice; her face is one with multiple eyes and a clear set of fangs- there’s a technical term for them, you just can’t recall it- and she has multiple arms, six in fact. With her legs, eight limbs total, of course. Dressed in webbing and what looks to you like latex garb, she seems...very particular. “Helloooo!” she warbles out, her voice high and creaking. “And what...purpose have you in this den of fright? Have you come to test your mettle, and join our coterie of the grotesque and unusual, hmmmmmm?”

“Or perhaps you’ve just stopped by for a...bite?” Her grin shows off her sharp teeth, as well as drooling venom. “I would soooo love guests…”

> “What, you sell food here?” Call her on it, just to see what happens.
> “I’m here on behalf of Susie. Doing a favor for her.” Might as well get to it.
> “It’s a lot cleaner than I expected.” You’d have thought they’d have gone for total scary ambiance.
> Other

>>5032129
> “What, you sell food here?” Call her on it, just to see what happens.
I'm kind of curious to see what she does, honestly.

>>5032129
> “What, you sell food here?” Call her on it, just to see what happens.

>>5032129
> “What, you sell food here?” Call her on it, just to see what happens.
> “I’m here on behalf of Susie. Doing a favor for her.” Might as well get to it.
>"I'm impressed actually. Been to a few HQs myself and this is an intriguing standout."
>"Say hi Pecker."

>>5032129
>“What, you sell food here?” Call her on it, just to see what happens.
>“I’m here on behalf of Susie. Doing a favor for her.” Might as well get to it.
Tease her for a bit and then explain why we're here.

>>5032129
> “What, you sell food here?” Call her on it, just to see what happens.
> “I’m here on behalf of Susie. Doing a favor for her.” Might as well get to it.
I think we made the right call keeping the Everblade - it still has a chockful of Elder Fairy-tier Light enchantment judging from Prianna's reaction.

Posting shortly.

>>5032129
>>5032133
>>5032138
>>5032146
>>5032148
>>5032267

You allow yourself an eyebrow raise; you do it often enough, and you think it’s a pretty good expression. The spook factor is high here, but honestly, the fact that you know what they’re all about kinda dulls the creepiness a bit. Although Pecker doesn’t seem to share the same sentiments, at least... “What, you sell food here?” Gotta be careful to keep him calm.

There’s a pause as the parses the rejoinder...and then a chuckle. “Ohohoh! Well, aren’t you a cheeky one!” But her smile doesn’t leave her face. “At any rate, I wouldn’t say ‘sell’...” And with a swing, and a second, and a third, she lowers herself from the ceiling like in a trapeze act, the web cutting off and herself performing a rather agile flip in midair to land near that smaller door on the left. “But I DO rather enjoy baking and cookery, from time to time. A pity that most don’t seem to want to try my dishes- I think I’m rather skilled!”

Ah. “...and why don’t they want to try them?”

“I don’t know! I use only the freshest ingredients, and I always make sure it’s well-cooked!” And yet despite the complaints, she’s still smiling. “Care to...taste test?”

“Actually, I’m here on behalf of Susie.” At the name ‘Susie’, she freezes for a moment, and that smile VERY quickly levels out. Not the reaction you were expecting. “Doing a favor for her.”

“...aaahhhh…” the smile slowly, slowly returns. “I seeee...alllllrighty then.” Huh. Might just be you, but she seems almost nervous now- her extended words aren’t like Sal’s- they’re the speech of someone who’s trying to think of what to say as they’re saying it. “Then I’ll just...let her know you’re here. You said your name was Miranda, right?” It’s a redundant question as she’s backing off, slowly. “I’ll just...go ring you in.”

Before you can respond, she slips through the double doors and you can hear her scampering off. Wonder what that was all about?

(cont.)

>>5033047
A couple of minutes later, the double doors slam open, and a thick ichorous smoke pours out, enveloping the foyer in what seems to be a sickly green gloom. Suzette the Full Witch stands there...actually looking much the standard; slightly hunched over, and a doleful expression, but with surprisingly sharp eyes...if clouded by bags under them indicating at least one sleepless night. “You ‘ave arrived. Suivez-moi.” She motions to follow her as she walks back between the doors, and you quickly proceed to do so, into what appears to be an equally dark, gloomy hall...though still well-kept, with a carpeted floor, and rich wooden paneling. The doors slam behind you and DAMN you had to resist jumping for that one. You should’ve seen it coming, but… gah, nevermind that. “You are early, tho’ not too much. You may see zome of ze other individuals in our group. Ignore zem for now.”

> “Even if it’s someone we both know? Any particular reason why?”
> “I’m kinda impressed with how well you guys keep this place from the looks of it…”
> “So, details on this thing you need me to do?”
> "So, the spider-lady who met me at the door seemed kinda...freaked out? At you?
>Stay quiet. She’ll tell you when she figures it’s good to.
>Other

>>5033048
>Stay quiet. She’ll tell you when she figures it’s good to.

>>5033048
> "So, the spider-lady who met me at the door seemed kinda...freaked out? At you?
> “So, details on this thing you need me to do?”

>>5033048
> “Even if it’s someone we both know? Any particular reason why?”
Well, the merger between Shadowwalkers and the Coven was pretty recent

>>5033048
> “Even if it’s someone we both know? Any particular reason why?”
> “So, details on this thing you need me to do?”
Man hope this spook house doesn't have a bunch of downers in it.

>Hey, Mono, wanna hear an Outgoer joke?

>Uhhh...depends. Are ya gonna kidnap me like last time afterwards to do somethin' related?

>Maybe! So! Here's the joke! 'So there's this Outgoer that comes into a bar one day, and he's glum. A guy nearby says, 'Hey pal, whatcha so glum about?' The guy says 'Well, I screwed up a job pretty badly.' The friendly guy goes 'Aw, that's too bad, I'll buy ya a drink and you can tell me about it! How'd you screw it up?' Well, the dude says, 'Well, the first part of it, I was asked to get a head shot of a target. They said to be quiet and careful and to use my best gear 'cause they wanted it on the sly.' The other dude's nodding, like 'Ah, and ya screwed up the shot?' But the guy shakes his head. 'Nope, I got him clean through the head. Not a trace left.' Well, this leaves the friendly guy baffled. 'Well, what's the problem?' The guy sighs, and says 'Well, I was wonderin' why they said 'photography experience recommended...' Pfttahahahah!

>...I don't get it.

>...

>...what?

>You're killing me, Mono, sweetie. Come on, we're going clothes shopping!

>W-what? Wait, what does that haveta- hey no stop! Lorelei!

>Just trust me on this!

>>5033048
>>5033052
>>5033062
>>5033051

You have to admit, that’s a bit surprising. “Even if it’s someone we both know? Any particular reason why?” You were half expecting Taminy to meet you at some point or another…

“Oui. ‘Zere is a bit of...uncertainty within ze ranks for now,” she explains. “I am most loath to play ze games of internal politicking, but zey exist, nonezeless. Many zee my particular request of you az an example of power, and to zay anything that may...stir ze imagination is not what I am intending.”

Oh. You can understand that well enough, you suppose. “Oh...I thought that you both wanted this merger, though. Didn’t go smoothly, then?”

She shakes her head. “Non. Just az zere were some in ze Coven zat were displeased, such existed in ze Shadowwalkers, az well. C’est la guerre. ‘Owever, few would be fool enough to challenge me directly.” She pauses, and sighs. “...and zis problem we ‘ave is quite annoying.” Ah, and here’s the doorway. “‘Ere. As I said, you’ll not be privy to ze deeper parts of our organization. ‘Owever, we operate on great secrecy regarding our HQ.” She leans in, and for a moment you can see just how serious she is, for once. “Tell NO ONE. Ozzerwise I will not be responsible for what ‘appens.”

You blink. “Of course.”

And then she’s back to normal. “Bien. Through ‘ere.”

She opens the door, and it’s...what seems to be a large sitting room, or perhaps a living room. The lights are dimmed out, as usual, and there’s a number of spider webs in the upper corners- very exactly, however, and each with words in them too small to make out. There’s a trio of doors here; one directly ahead, and two to the sides. However, you’re forced to follow Suzette, as she doesn’t even break stride as she hangs left, putting the webs out of your vision quickly.. You can see there’s a number of shelves, flush with various trophies and items- and in a couple cases, preserved body parts. You have just enough time to spy someone in one of the rather oversized seats; a girl, with a long robe and- what look like torn rocker pants? Not sure, but you think she’s a vampire, before you pass on through.

“Zat was Isabella,” Suzette mentions after you’re through. “With any luck, she won’t be bozering us.”

(cont.)

>>5033879
>>5033879
You’re led down a short flight of stairs in another short hall. “Almost ‘zere. I may az well explain now.” She sighs as she continues. “Because of our...particular nature, we ‘ave...special allowances. Zis entire facility iz zurrounded by a mana-permissible field emitter. Your powers are at full effect, ‘ere.” Huh! Fancy that. “Do NOT abuse zat fact. It iz, in truth, ze cause of our little...conflict.”

“Conflict?” you ask. “Just what IS it you need me to do?”

“Extermination,” she admits. “Zere was an...unforeseen ‘appenstance on a recent job. We brought back zomething we...should not ‘ave. It iz quick. Dangerous. ‘Ardy. And most resilient to magics, as well. We are fortunate that, for ze time, it is easily appeased. ‘Owever, that will not remain zo forever. Should we not dispatch it, we will be...punished most zeverely.” Wait...there’s a lot of questions you want to ask about that. Chiefly being- “Out ovahzeer allowed us time to rectify ze situation ourselves before zey bring about our doom. ‘ence, you. Anothzer Outgoer, with little ovahzight, trusted by at least one of us, and with physical power enough to perhaps end zis thing’s unfortunate existence.” She turns to look at you with more than a little regret in her face. “We ‘ad hoped to rezolve it before your aid waz required- zis would have been much more plezant if zo. A little cleaning, zome ‘elp with testing Nibi’s newest dishes, et voila. Alas. Fate yet makes fools of us all.”

>Any questions?
>Other

>>5033882
>ask for a detailed description of the beast and its' powers.
>ask what methods they tried.
>ask what weaknesses, minor or not, they have discovered.
>"Do I have the option to request additional aid? From outside or from the Coven itself?"
>"Why was it brought here in the first place?"
This should cover almost everything I can think of. Might be missing something however, other anons should chip in.

>>5033882
>Can you tell me what you know about this uninvited guest, like what it's been eating, how big it is, if it's attacked anyone here...
>If you've got a mana-permissible field emitter, would that also work with my equipment? Because I've got some gauntlets that'll help reverse damaged objects, so long as it's used within ten minutes.
>How quietly does this need to be done? Quiet enough that no-one outside the buisness knows, or quiet enough that none of your rivals knows?

>"your powers are at full effect here, do not abuse that"
>*erases an entire city block with nebula buster*

>>5033882
>How intelligent is this creature? It sounds like you've been able to negotiate with it.

>>5033882
>>5033892
>What did you mean by 'easily appeased'?

>>5033882
These >>5033892>>5033894>>5033937
Want to add something myself, but the length is adequate.

Head is killing me. Will be back tomorrow hopefully.

>>5034679
No problem, Handler, hope you get some relief quickly.

See you tomorrow.

Feeling better. Writing!

>>5033882
>>5033892
>>5033894
>>5033935
“Wait, how did you ‘appease’ it?” you ask. “You mean you have it calmed?”

“For now, it feeds from our stockpile of raw meats. Zis is untenable, for obvious reasons,” she explains. “We need zose for...ozzer purposes. Its girth makes it quite gluttonous, ‘owever.”

“Yeah? How big is this thing?” you ask as you’re outside the door. You can hear...glorping noises, is the best way to describe it. You don’t like that…

“Large,” is the response. “Alas, it iz no creature that maintains shape and form. It is vicious, viscous, an-”

“Is this a damn slime?” you interrupt. You REALLY don’t want to beat around the bush, here.

She pauses, and then sighs. “Oui. Or a sort, it iz a slime. One that arrived ‘ere without our permission.” Wait, then how- “Or razer, without ALL of our permissions. Ze creature was being tended to by...a troublesome fellow of ourz. He forgot to release it in ze wild before we left, and zo it iz here. It at first seemed poised to attack, before itz...caretaker...mollified it. For now.” She seems singularly displeased. “We ‘ave tried both magic an’ firearms. Magic does little to it, and anyzing more powerful zat we can perform would lead to...unpleasant revelations. Bullets are similarly ineffective.”

“And I’m guessing physical attacks are right out?” you wager.

She nods. “Few of us are so inclined, in truth. Our best work iz done with spells and from afar. And ze few who are physically inclined are not zo much zo as specialists as yourself.”

“And this thing has NO weaknesses?” you ask as you hear another round of ominous burbling.

“None zat we can exploit to ze fullest. We thought perhaps electricity would be ze key, but zat only lasted for some time before it began to strike back. Et 'as a solid core, but nozing we can conjure or utilize can affect it.”

“Hmmm...could I get any backup on that front, then?” Maybe with someone who’s tried this before. “Inside, if not outside?”

“Preferably, non. Not even everyone in ze company knows of zis situation, to my surprise. We would keep it that way.” She leans over. “Can you do zis or non?”

Well…

> “Won’t hurt anything to try.” At least, you think.
> “Positive, for sure.” You’ve got some tricks, you think.
> “...and you’re POSITIVE I can’t get backup?” Because you think you’ll need it.
> Other

>>5035548
>Other
>"Have you tried freezing it using non-magical means?"
Hey, it's liquid-ish. Remember how they contained The Blob?

>>5035548
A magic-resistant slime, huh. Normally they fall over to elemental damage of any kind, but that explains why this one hasn't.

If we want to be direct we can bait it into revealing the core and than snipe the thing (much better with two people, winkwink Izumi).

Strong flamethrowers are on the table here.>>5035551's good too. OR we can just ask our nerds for ideas.

NO slashing weapons, slimes and oozes are known to split.

>>5035548
> “Won’t hurt anything to try.” At least, you think.
> Other
>"Have you tried freezing it using non-magical means?"
>"The associate you mentioned, has he been made aware of the current situation, and how bad it might be to be the one responsible for it? Because if he had established a rapport with the creature, we might be able to use that to our advantage.
>"Would a sentient shadow with a goofy sense of humor permanently bound to a ring count as backup? Because I can get him to help out, especially if there's not much light in the basement."

>>5035548
> “Won’t hurt anything to try.” At least, you think.
We did bring our bag of holding and Gartoum's ring with us, right?

>>5035548
>>5035561
Eeeeh let's call the guy too, just to be safe.
>>5035564
We did, we need to store our treated things somewhere.

Writing.

>>5035548
>>5035551
>>5035561
>>5035567
>>5035564
“I think so,” you respond. “Won’t hurt anything to try, at least.” You can see her breath out in relief as she leans back. “Just to make sure, though- have ya tried freezing it with non-magical means? Liquid nitrogen or the sort?”

She blinks. “...non. We do not have such zings in ready supply. Do you?”

“...no,” you admit. You’re not entirely sure you could get it, either...well, actually, no, Owlia might have some, but you’re not even sure about that. Still, it’s an option, at least. “Either way, might be a good idea to bring the...owner in. Maybe we could use that to help me out.”

“...mmm. Perhaps…” she mulls for a moment. Thinking about it, she pulls out a crystal ball after a few moments. “Contact Edmund,” she rasps. The orb glows purple for a moment, before it lights up, and a scraggly, filthy looking redheaded boy in rags materializes. His eyes are bright green, and for a moment he’s glaring, but as soon as he realizes who’s on the other end, his expression shifts to something MUCH less antagonistic. “Edmund. Redemption calls.”

“...y-yes ma’am?” Huh. His squeaky voice is something awful reverent.

“You will ‘ave a chance to ‘elp clean up your mess. Report to ze site tout de suite.” Oh, yeah she’s mad.

The boy rapidly nods. “Y-yes ma’am. Does this mean-”

“Now.” And without fanfare she closes the connection, before turning to you. “Will you go in now, or wait?”

> “Might as well get started, see what I can do on my own.”
> “Nah, I’ll wait for a moment.”
> “...why is that the second person so scared of you?”
> “...So, I came across some interesting information...regarding Outgoers.”
> Other

>>5035591
>> “Might as well get started, see what I can do on my own.”

Is it a good time to try to magically freezing it? Even if not directly, the environment around it, so it loses heat and thus freeze naturally.

>>5035591
> “...why is that the second person so scared of you?”
the conspiracy talks can wait until we're finished

>>5035591
> “Nah, I’ll wait for a moment.”
> "Any chance you can tell me the layout of this floor? I've got a technique or two I can use to trap your problem, if Edmund can't convince them."
> “...why is that the second person so scared of you? Is it just you being their boss?”

Wait until after we catch the slime before we talk conspiracies.

File: Freeze Blast Grenade.png (295 KB, 1024x576)

295 KB PNG

>>5035591
> “Nah, I’ll wait for a moment.”
> “...why is that the second person so scared of you?”
Just wait a bit guys, if we go in right now we can only wail around and mostly improvise. And I HATE to have our gear dissolved and be humiliated in front of an ally.
Initially I thought >>5035595 was a decent call, but we don't have anything to protect us from the cold itself.

So my proposal is simple. Non-magical Freeze Grenades.
The concept isn't exactly novel, so there should be a vendor or two with those in stock plus we're early to boot. We force-feed it a pack or two and the problem might be solved if fortune smiles.

>>5035591
So bets on Suzette being the Guild's Mistress herself?

Writing. Likely will be a short run, there's a social thing I want to get to in a few hours.

>>5035591
>>5035596
>>5035598
>>5035614
“Nah,” you decide. “I can wait for a moment. Besides, I kinda wanted to ask you a question.”

“And zat would be?” Susie asks, raising an eyebrow.

“Well..why is it that people seem to be kinda scared of you?” You hadn’t really seen much reason for that aside from her creep-factor, but that’s different than the clear intimidation you’d seen. “That was the second person who’d freaked out, and the first was just after hearing me namedrop you.”

“Ah.” The frown is unexpected, as she looks away. “Zis is a recent development. One I ‘ave taken advantage of, true, but...per’aps not one I would like long term.” Her expression flattens in annoyance. “Leadership iz overrated.”

...that causes you to pause for a moment as the implications set in. “...hold on now, are YOU a Division Leader?”

She blinks. “Oh. Non.” Oh. Well, then- “I am ze temporary Field Commander.”

Your jaw legit drops. You’re not sure how to react to that otherwise.

She sighs. “I know. Eet was a ‘orrible decision on zere part. I ‘ave no head for leadership,” she laments, “And it iz a position only for fools an’ ze ambitious. I am neizer. ‘Owever, of Ze Coven, I was ze highest ranked on either side who was willing to...play ball wit ze otherz, as you say.”

...ah. Wait. “Wait, how high ranked ARE you?”

“B,” she quips. “I ‘oped staying such would be low enough to prevent zis responsibility, and yet high enough to avoid busywork. Alas.” You can hear footsteps. “I must now deal with such terrors az zis.” She affects a half-glare at the boy running up to the both of you- Edmund. Indeed, he’s frazzled, and in what seems to be a cleaning jumpsuit, and you can smell bleach on him, which causes you a bit of revulsion on a deep level. There’s some bottles and whatnot attached to his waist as well, full of what you guess is disinfectant. “Yes ma’am sorry ma’am!” He [/i]bows[/i] quickly, (missing an eye roll from her) before looking between the two of you. “W-what do you need me for?”

Wordlessly, Suzie points to you. Right.

> Questions?

>>5037217
>"How did you manage capture this slime in the first place? It has to have some weaknesses."
>"How did you 'mollify' it? Would you be able to do it again? Can you lure it?"
>"Is there a reason you chose this specific specimen? Is there something unique or extra special about it that hasn't been mentioned yet?"
>Pet our crystal bird to calm it down

>>5037217
>”Miranda. Nice to meet you.”
>”So first thing, Suzette mentioned your friend is being fed by you, and mentioned that it calmed down when you told it to when it first arrived here and met your coworkers. I have to ask, does it show any form of sentience? Because if it is, you’ve got a major responsibility to inform them what’s happened to them and to help them find a new life here without them being Evicted. If it’s closer to animal level intellectually, you’ll need to look into basic slime pet maintenance. If it can talk and hold conversations, you’ve effectively either adopted a child, or kidnapped an adult, and will need to tell them how the Intersection works.”
God, I hope he’s now an adoptive slime-dad.

>>5037217
>>5037242
>>5037245
+
Let's get on with it. Second one will need some adjustments though

>>5037265
Supportin'

Writing in a bit.

>>5037217
>>5037242
>>5037245
>>5037265
>>5037446
You give Pecker a few pets as you can feel him move in agitation. Poor thing. Maybe not the best first place to take him after he got out of the hospital, but you’d rather him with you. “Alright. So, we’re cleaning up your mess. How did you manage to capture this slime in the first place? It has to have some weaknesses."

“Oh, w-well...that was a factor of the world we were in, y’see...I was able to contain it in a capturing device, and, well...kinda forgot to take it out.” He blushes. “It was awful hungry for a while there…”

Huh. Strange. “So then why is it suddenly loose? Can you lure it somewhere?"

“I-Iunno? Maybe? It’s not s’pose to be here in the first place! I dunno what this place might’ve done to it!” he complains. “All I did was feed it some leftover meat! It loved eating, so...I figured I’d distract it.”

There’s gurgling and growling suddenly from the room next to you. “Aaaand that might be running out soon,” he says worriedly. “I dunno what else we have!”

“Not much,” Suzie says morosely.

“Would it listen to you at all if it were still hungry?” you ask. “Because you know depending on how smart it is, you’ve effectively either adopted a child, or kidnapped an adult, and will need to tell them how the Intersection works.”

“I know!” He yells. “I didn’t- it wasn’t on purpose! I was just usin’ him to help me play pranks while we were there!” Geez, he seems plenty uncomfortable. “Can ya give me the third-degree later, when he’s not gonna start wailing in a minute?!” Well, he’s got a point there...

The warbling that erupts reminds you of the limited time you have, especially now that its food seems to be running out.

"Okay, really quick, do you have any idea about maybe freezing it?"

"...I don't THINK so. Francisca's chilly if someone passes through her, but she can't freeze anything." Damn. "I kinda thought I'd have to try and trap it again." He holds up a small, handled disk- presumably how he got it in the first place. "Even bought the capture disk with me, not that I think it'll work...

Worth a shot, at least.

>You'll keep it distracted, Edmund will try to at least corral the thing. It'll be messy, but it's what you can think of right now.
>Edmund distracts it, and you'll handle the subduing; hopefully it won't be cognizant enough to break out of anything.
>Other

>>5038333
>Other
>"I'm going out to purchase a more permanent solution if that disk doesn't work. Do anything to buy more time."
I'm going with >>5035614's idea. If anyone has any better ideas I'm all ears, because I'm not liking that we're betting on uncertainties.
>"I hope you don't mind the fee coming out of your pockets Mr. Edmund. It's only appropriate."
Because some anons (like me) do not want to waste motes for this.

>>5038333
>>Edmund distracts it, and you'll handle the subduing; hopefully it won't be cognizant enough to break out of anything.
If we still have pieces of the giant octopus we killed in the last mission with us those could be used to lure it. Or buy more time for other anon's option, although I don't think even that would be enough.
>“Aaaand that might be running out soon,”
>“Can ya give me the third-degree later, when he’s not gonna start wailing in a minute?!”

>>5038333
From their phrasings the Guild's supply of meat is being drained, but it's not near empty. They can afford to spare more.
Supporting >>5038340>>5038346
Give them the squid bag and maybe something else to hold the line. Not sure WHAT since they're all STR-dumping nerds.

Writing shortly.

>>5038333
>>5038340
>>5038346
>>5038404
“Fine. If there’s no way to freeze it…” you think for a moment. “I’d like to just go and buy some sort of frost grenades, but since you don’t have those…”

“Are you positive eet would work?” Suzie asks. You nod. You’re not ACTUALLY entirely positive it’d work, but you’re fairly much so, at the least. Then if zey were express ordered, you could utilize zem?”

“Probably, but-” another roar. Great… “I don’t think we’ve got that kind of time.”

Suzie sighs. “Zen if you can detain it, I will place an order. Zat would still be within our capabilities.” She squints at Edmund. “Whezer or not they succeed, it will be coming out of YOUR paycheck.”

“Yes ma’am,” he squeaks.

“...right, then. No more waiting around,” you decide, and you take a deep breath, before throwing open the door and dragging him by the hand as you both leap in.

The door quickly shuts behind you, and what you’re left in is what appears to be some sort of stone storage room- largely empty at the moment save for some boxes, the overbearing smell of meat, and...what looks like a massive, MASSIVE, translucent jelly slime cow thing. Or maybe it’s a bear. You’re not sure, but it’s quadrupedal, with a massive, bulbous mouth, a complete lack of eyes, and a small, glowing core in the center. There’s bones and various juices off to one side, and the thing shlorping around is quick to turn to you.

And that’s when it charges.

“H-hey! Wait, Goopy, it’s me!” Edmund yells as you just dive for space.

>Roll 2d20+5 due to squid meat, best of three.

Rolled 8, 14 + 5 = 27 (2d20 + 5)

>>5039206

Rolled 10, 5 + 5 = 20 (2d20 + 5)

>>5039206
Welp.

Rolled 6, 20 + 5 = 31 (2d20 + 5)

>>5039206
Gimme a 20

>>5039213
Damn is that 20 ours or eddy?>>5039206

>>5039214
That be for Edmund. Neat.

>>5039220
That's a supercrit if I ever saw one. Looks like he's becoming a slime dad after all.

>>5039222
>"Hey Ed... I got some news for you. I just checked Goopy with my FutureSight, and I found out he's a she, she's sentient, and also she's pregnant."
>"And that you're the father, somehow."

Writing in about a half hour. We shall see what comes of this for poor Edmund.

>>5039206
>>5039209
>>5039211
>>5039213
You manage to clear the thing- if barely, leading to its slimy detritus coating your legs. It’s a massive creature, and you fall into a roll, turning quickly to assess the threat before it can do much more than that- you recall you have some squid meat that should help it calm down...whatever kraken meat is called, at least.

...only to see it practically stop right before Edmund, and give what you can only presume is a long slurp; absolutely drenching the poor boy in green goop. But to your surprise, he doesn’t seem like he’s being attacked. Instead, he more seems like a pet owner getting an all-too-enthusiastic greeting. Which, frankly, is better than the alternative.

“Heeey...heeey- w-wait no don’t!” ...But as the thing pounces on him (carefully, you think), you feel like maybe you should at least try to extricate him from the colossal pounds of goop, at least. Boy might smother underneath there and then he’d be useless. You can see him flailing, and the beast doesn’t seem to so much as notice, the way it’s nudging and licking at him.

Hmph. Well, maybe you can get it off him... "Oy!" You give a whistle as you pull out a few cuts of the squid meat. The beast turns its head, and you're quick to toss a few massive disk chunks at it. It snaps them up- but you're quick to notice that it's in a sitting position now, and Edmund seems to practically be trapped, instead of the meat convincing it to move off. If only he could move to activate the device on him...but his arms are as pinned as the rest of him.

>Alright, better this than otherwise, but time to get him out of there.
>...he can endure it for a little longer while you try to get to the core of this thing to finish it off.
>...maybe the FutureSight can provide some extra information about this thing. He should live, right?
>Other

>>5040771
>...maybe the FutureSight can provide some extra information about this thing. He should live, right?
Something tells me interrupting this reunion will backfire.
This makes me remember that the FutureSight is not that common.

>>5040771
>...maybe the FutureSight can provide some extra information about this thing. He should live, right?
Right I guess they don't have one, if they had the futuresight they wouldn't have a problem dealing with this slime on their own.

>>5040771
>...maybe the FutureSight can provide some extra information about this thing. He should live, right?
Gartoum can shadow-port Ed from underneath it and maybe Pecker could pester it as well to get it off the kid. But I'm not sure if it's sitting on top of the Edmund to protect him or not.

>>5040780
It's essentially in his lap. And by 'in his lap' I mean mostly sitting on him and kinda just drooling slime all over him.

>>5040771
>...maybe the FutureSight can provide some extra information about this thing. He should live, right?

>>5040771
>...maybe the FutureSight can provide some extra information about this thing. He should live, right?
>Also, take a picture to send to Edmund and Suzette later. Maybe seeing him suffer might get Suzette to go easier on him, or at least amuse her. NO FLASH. I don't want to find out if it'll react like Flubber. JESUS CHRIST WHY DO I REMEMBER FUCKING FLUBBER OF ALL THINGS?

Full run tomorrow. Friends roped me into Mario Party marathon.

Run begins in approx. 1 hour!

>>5040771
>>5040773
>>5040778
>>5040780
>>5040786
>>5040787

While your first instinct is to get it off of him, you realize this might be a good opportunity. Maybe the FutureSight can provide some extra information about this thing. He should live, right? At the very least he’s sputtering and flailing, and doesn’t seem to be losing strength, so that’s a good sign. So yeah. “Hold him right there for a minute!” you say as you pull it out.

“IT’S holding ME!” he shouts, annoyed. Technicalities. Still, hopefully this won’t take too long…

Fortunately, it doesn’t. And according to your scans…

It’s a slime beast, obviously, specie designation- Goomoo. Cute. Supposedly friendly unless its young are threatened, but can be roused to anger if provoked.

It’s omnivorous, with a strong leaning towards meat. It can engulf people and other beasts in its slime like most slimes, but it also seems to lack the ability to split and divide like most. It also seems to have growth capabilities that can lead to...well, it’s not good if it keeps growing. No physical weaknesses, no elemental weaknesses, save frost/cold, either, due to its biological processes. Seems like you’re on the right path. You do notice that it also registers that may have a sensitivity to sound, however- high pitched enough may shatter this thing- or melt it or something.

Hm. So it can be sung to death or maybe yelled to death?

>Well, maybe give it a shot? You CAN yell pretty loud...
>Best to not risk freaking everyone out- just start pulling Edmund out from under it.
>Other

>>5042363
>>Best to not risk freaking everyone out- just start pulling Edmund out from under it.

If anyone feels like using sonic then they'd better add some magic to boost the volume or more likely pitch to get effective damage.

>>5042363
>Best to not risk freaking everyone out- just start pulling Edmund out from under it.
>The Moo part of it’s name implies cow-like qualities… can this thing be milked, and if so, what can it do and how much could a bucket be sold for?

>>5042363
>Best to not risk freaking everyone out- just start pulling Edmund out from under it.

>>5042363
>Best to not risk freaking everyone out- just start pulling Edmund out from under it.
Wow, they got threatened by a docile slime cow. At least it's not sapient.

Writing.

>>5042427
'Supposedly'.

>>5042363
>>5042392
>>5042399
>>5042404
>>5042427

Well, that, plus how it’s supposed to be docile...you suppose you might as well just focus on getting this thing out. Although how they got threatened by this thing when it seems perfectly fine, if a bit overeager, makes you wonder just what caused them all to be so timid, barring its resistances.

That answer, you quickly find out, is that it’s not THAT docile. As you reach for the boy, intending to grab a flailing arm and yank him out, you find yourself having to jump back a bit as the creature swings its bovine-ish head- horns included- towards you. You’re not sure how sharp those things actually ARE, but you’d rather not find out as it gives off a snort that you figure is really more bull than cow.

“H-hey!” Edmund sputters out- before he’s licked and drenched in slime yet again. You’re starting to see why this is an issue. Maybe…

You still have a bit more squid. You toss it to the side, hoping that it’ll ignore Edmund to sate itself...and you can only frown as you see it notice the meat...and simply carts Edmund along with it the few steps it takes to reach the meat, eating while still having Edmund entrapped. Peachy. It’s not that stupid.

But then it shifts its weight- and that's when you realize that its lax behavior while feeding might just cause it to engulf Edmund entirely if you don't do something! And you really WERE hoping this'd be simple...

>Time to make a dash for it- you can't just let it boss you around.
>Would it be immune to it? You're not sure, but it's worth a shot.
>Can you use that anger? ...if it can't deform that much, you can play bullfighter, maybe.
>Other

>>5042472
>Can you use that anger? ...if it can't deform that much, you can play bullfighter, maybe.
It can't split, and managing a bull running in a straight line seems way easier to me.
Don't think sonic yells are the way here, Suzette did say we should keep it quiet.

>>5042472
>Can you use that anger? ...if it can't deform that much, you can play bullfighter, maybe.
Man, I wish we figured out if Gartoum was allowed. He could slap this goomoo's ass while holding onto Ed and have it charge us into a Great Barrier.

>>5042472
>>Can you use that anger? ...if it can't deform that much, you can play bullfighter, maybe.
Ole!

>>5042472
>Can you use that anger? ...if it can't deform that much, you can play bullfighter, maybe.

>>5042472
>>Can you use that anger? ...if it can't deform that much, you can play bullfighter, maybe.
>Summon Gartoum

>>5042472
>>5042496
>>5042516
Yeah just let him out. Plenty of shadows.

>>5042472
>Play bullfighter with it
>Get Gartoum out to get Edmund

Writing!

>>5042472
>>5042483
>>5042496
>>5042501
>>5042503
>>5042516
>>5042517
>>5042583
Although maybe, in a way, it still CAN be. But you’re going to need some help. “Gartoum!”

“Mmmmmyes? You’ve been quiet for a bit, and I have to say, I was somewhat enjoying the quiet after all the recent action.” He practically yawns as he slorps out of the ring, to Pecker’s chirping surprise. He takes a moment to get his bearings- there’s not much of him right now, just in a thin, shadowy form with hands, but that’s enough for you. “Although...is that changing right now?”

“A bit,” you say. “Helping with some animal control at home. See that thing?” You point at the giant gelatinous bull. “It needs to get OFF that kid!”

“Aha…that’s rather the sticky situation-” he starts, but you’re already in motion.

“Just get it to charge me, go get the kid, and I’ll handle the rest!” you say as you get into position...hopefully he won’t-

“HIYAH!” the cry suddenly comes out as a shadowy whip suddenly smacks the thing on the flank- immediately causing it to rear up and bellow, looking around wildly; it’s quick to see the black morass slithering away and…

...slipping behind you before slipping into your shadow. Well, you did ask- and you have little more time to think as a pissed off oversized goo bull charges you down.

>Current Mana: 10,000/10,000

>Great Barrier! You just wish you had a brace, because this might get...dizzy.
>Can you stop this thing with your bare hands? Well, you’re about to find out, you guess…
>Light Barrier, that should hold plenty well, right? This thing can’t be THAT strong, all things considered…
>Other

>>5042631
>Great Barrier! You just wish you had a brace, because this might get...dizzy
Might as well go all in, no reason to save up mana

>>5042631
>Great Barrier! You just wish you had a brace, because this might get...dizzy.
Just box it in.
No touchy! Slimes are gross and we don't do clothes shopping that often.

>>5042631
>Great Barrier! You just wish you had a brace, because this might get...dizzy.

>>5042631
>Great Barrier! You just wish you had a brace, because this might get...dizzy.

Writing!

>>5042631
>>5042637
>>5042637
>>5042641
>>5042653
>>5042706

Considering the speed at which it’s going, a Great Barrier isn’t gonna do much about that. But you at least want to keep yourself protected, which means- well, this won’t HURT, perse, but…

You really wish you had an anchor aside from your own two feet. Normally, you don’t have to worry about this- repelling something coming down on you, the most common issue, isn’t a problem, but when it’s coming directly at you and PARTICULARLY strong…

Well, as you go tumbling in your protective sphere, you really wish that you could anchor yourself better. On the plus side, you're pretty confident that Gartoum's got an opening to grab the kid and let him catch his breath while this thing plays pinball with you. You just need to withstand it for a bit...

For a moment you tumble ass-over teakettle, though it’s a feeling you’re sadly somewhat used to in these situations. How any damage taken never managed to actually transfer to you you’re not sure, but you’re not questioning it- though you do feel the motion of hitting something and ricocheting off of it briefly as your vision spins…

>Roll 1d20, you need to get refocused!

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>5042740
Weeeee!

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>5042740

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>5042740

>12
Not too bad but boy is miranda gonna see double

>>5043432
>>5042740
It's supposed to be 11,000. 'Divine Shoes' item increases the cap by 1,500 but normally we're not wearing them inside the Intersection.

>>5042631
>>Current Mana: 10,000/10,000
Isn't that suppose to be 11,000?

Sorry if I'm missing something, first time in here. I just got out of the archives.

>>5043449
Thanks.

Also, these captchas are a huge pain.

...Ah. Well, good to know.

Posting in about 15 minutes. Halloween get together I'm going to, but want to get a couple things out today.

>>5043527
Enjoy the party. Going in costume?

>>5042740
>>5042747
>>5042749
>>5042750
You slam off a number of other floors as the big beastie bats you around, and you can’t help but yelp a bit every time, in annoyance if not in pain. Spiraling through the air is never comfortable if it’s not under your own power, and THIS for sure ISN’T. Up is down, down is up, left is a circle, fuck this is confusing!

You don’t have much time to reorient yourself- you’re still dizzy, but it’s far from the first time you’ve operated in a state. Still sucks, though, and you’re not positive of your positioning or your coordination for a second as your impromptu impression of a ping pong ball finally comes to an end. A distant part of you hopes that maybe the kid managed to get his own mind in order and actually bothered to capture the dang thing. But hearing the snorts makes you realize that it’s still around. Although your eyes are still trying to stop seeing multiples, you know that’s bad enough.

“Uggghh…” you can hear him moaning and groaning, too. Fantastic. You can make out his shaky image; almost ignoring you now that you’re well and away from it, and marching back over to Edmund…

>Try to help him snap out of it! He needs to use the damn capture disk, and NOW!
>You just need to hold out until the stupid frost grenades get here so you can shatter this thing. Tell him to run and don’t stop!
>Damnit...he won’t be able to recover in time. You need to get its attention again! You might not do anything, but it’ll NOTICE you blasting at it, right?
>Other

>>5043565
>You just need to hold out until the stupid frost grenades get here so you can shatter this thing. Tell him to run and don’t stop!

I don't see blasts working too well in this case, and I don't trust the capture disk to work after the slime has been feeding.

>>5043565
>>Try to help him snap out of it! He needs to use the damn capture disk, and NOW!

>>5043565
>Try to help him snap out of it! He needs to use the damn capture disk, and NOW!
No hurt in trying. The grenades will arive in time no matter what we do, so let's try to use the disk first.

>>5043565
>>Try to help him snap out of it! He needs to use the damn capture disk, and NOW!

Aaand back!

>>5043580
>>5043584
>>5043611

Well, shit. You need to snap him out of it, and fast. But all things considered, there’s only really one thing with any chance of success. Your big mouth. “EDMUND!” you yell, putting your all into it and letting the attempt help clear your own head. “WAKE UP BEFORE THIS THING DROWNS US BOTH! YOU NEED TO USE THE DISK! NOW!”

“Ughh...disk, disk…” you can barely hear him mumble. “R-Right!” You really hope he's gotten it together enough to actually try the thing. You can hear a sudden beeping, and you turn to see him hurl the thing, caked with slime, towards the big beast, who barely seems to acknowledge it...

>Roll 1d20, best of three.

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>5043842

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>5043842
Woo!

I think this is one of the smallest posts I've ever made. Need to remember I don't have to hit the character limit on every single one.

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>5043842

Writing!

>>5043842
>>5043843
>>5043844
>>5043854
You can hear the ‘click’ of the device activating, and you can hear a grunt of effort as he throws it as your vision clears. The thing seems to impact, and there’s a flash of light before it seems to engulf the entirety of the creature. Then, it seems to dissipate into small beads of light, which are all sucked into the disk like a tornado. The ring of lights on the thing, all red at the moment, start beeping, one by one turning green. There’s a dozen of them, and little by little, half of them fill...seven, eight, nine…!

But then the thing shudders, and there’s ANOTHER flash of light as the beast erupts from it, first in those dots of light, then as it reforms. “Damnit! Almost!” Great, then what- “We need to weaken it somehow, but without that cold stuff…”

Right, then. Delaying actions...you’ve got an idea of how things work, now, so it SHOULD just be a matter of executing.

You leap into action again, and you can see the big beast snort again as it turns towards you. Alright, then...time to see how good you are at bullfighting. Sorta.

>Roll 2d20+3, best of three.

Rolled 16, 16 + 3 = 35 (2d20 + 3)

>>5044707

Rolled 12, 9 + 3 = 24 (2d20 + 3)

>>5044707

Rolled 7, 12 + 3 = 22 (2d20 + 3)

>>5044707
She needs to suplex the thing.
Yes, suplexing a slime cow. It will get our clothes dirty but cmon', the opportunity doesn't present itself often.

>>5044707
>>5044710
>>5044711
>5044711
>>5044716
The next fifteen minutes are hectic, a constant dodging and provoking effort as you try to whittle down the massive creature while preventing it from getting any bigger. The kraken meat isn’t much effective for a lot longer as it realizes that the meat is just bait. Even Edmund starts to gain the thing’s annoyance, though it never seems to outright charge him as it does you. Just as well; his disk needs time to recharge.

At the moment, you’re staring the thing down; it seems to be near exhausted as well, you believe, in trying to run you over. You’re REALLY not fond of the idea, naturally.

The beast charges once more, earning a yelp from Edmund, and as like before, you make to dodge its charge- only for it to shift its position just a bit- enough to change the trajectory and realize that you won’t get out of the way entirely quite in time.

It’s honestly instinct from there on. You manage to shift a BIT, at least, so that you’re not getting gored on the thing, and you can get a grip on one of its horns. It’s more solid than you expected, but you suppose that makes sense.

Honestly, part of you is insane, part of you is desperate to not be smelling ENTIRELY like goo bull for several days, not that that dream’s dying moment to moment as your strength and weigh shift. You don’t know if you can get the thing over your head…

...but you can certainly swing it off the ground using its own momentum, twisting its ‘neck’ a full 90 degrees and making its body follow suit, forcing it through the air in something of an improvised judo throw as you fall backwards, allowing the right side of its body to pass over you...aaaaaand practically showering you in goop as it crashes into the wall.

“Whoa!” Edmund voices his thoughts quick succinctly. “Did you jus- how?”

(cont.)

>>5044804
Before you can say anything else, though, the door, unexpectedly, opens, and in walks Susie, in her hand being a...basket? “Ah, still alive. Bien. I ‘ave ze grenades, zo if you would-” Already on it, and she doesn’t even get out the last bit before you rip the covering off, quickly prime one, and hurl it into the dazed creature.

It gets off a confused bleat before the grenade erupts- and it instantly shows an effect, the freezing not just happening in one point of it, but seeming to spread along the whole thing...in a matter of seconds, the stupid thing is completely immobilized.

You open your mouth slightly to let out a sigh- and then immediately regret that as globs of goop end up in your mouth, causing a rather...well, you’re sure some of your intimidation factor is dead now.

The disk cleanly captures the beast with no problems now that it's frozen. As for you, as you try and grimly wipe off at least SOME of the goop (and you largely fail), you notice Susie standing there, looking at you impassively. Even Pecker, who largely just flew around avoiding the creature, seems reluctant to land on your head right now.

"You 'ave my thanks. Zat was quite annoying. With zis, we are squared away." Lovely. "...we 'ave a shower you can avail yourzelf of."

Well, there was that. "...thanks, because I needed to warn you of something afterwards."

She raises an eyebrow. "Oh? An' zat would be?"

"I'll tell you after I get out of said shower." Largely because you still need to consider HOW to break it to her.

>Tell her everything- there's a quiet conspiracy, something's going on, might involve the A+ rankers, all of it.
>Imply that there's something untowards going on, but you're not entirely certain what. Just that you know there's a reason for all the weird job displacement.
>Just a general warning to watch herself out there because someone's got their eyes on you all for whatever reason
>Other, a unique mashup of details.

>>5044808
>>Imply that there's something untowards going on, but you're not entirely certain what. Just that you know there's a reason for all the weird job displacement.

>>5044808
>Other
Probe her first. See if she knows something out of line about all of this.

The Knights were small names despite being on the list and is lead by an A rank, but the Guild has recently been a part of a merger (a working of this conspiracy?) and made waves because of that, and who we're talking to has a direct line to an overseer -who is no doubt watchful.
Might be my paranoia tingling up for no reason but I think we have reasons to tread lightly around this, even thought she has been helpful.

File: library list.jpg (80 KB, 1571x234)

80 KB JPG

>>5044808
Luna told us to keep her involvement to ourselves, so no mention of her or the blue coin she gave us. But everything else should be safe:
>Other, a unique mashup of details.
>Something's going on in one of the libraries - someone there is keeping tabs on Outgoer companies, show her the list that we've found there
>Ask if she knows anything about 'Progenitors'
>>5044818
Guild got marked only after the merger and Knights seemed more important on the list that we've found

>>5044808
>>5044828
Right on the money, I forgot that there are threat assessments on that paper. Let's go with this.

Truth be told, both of the crumbs we got came from that specific library. That library was also started by an A+. We should hammer that info down.

>>5044818
>Might be my paranoia tingling up for no reason but I think we have reasons to tread lightly around this
We just need to avoid mentioning that we've warned the Knights and Lunaluna. We didn't really find much so we're basically telling the same stuff we told Experyia.

>>5044808
These>>5044828>>5044830>>5044838

Writing!

>>5044808
>>5044818
>>5044828
>>5044830
>>5045029
You allow yourself a decent amount of time to wash off, letting the explanation swim through your head as you consider what you do and DON’T want to say. After all, there’s certain aspects you recall really shouldn’t be shared- if only because others asked you to not. By the time you’re dried and out, you feel much more confident.

You see Susie across the hall, waiting placidly. “Very well. Follow moi. Ze walls have ears, an’ zey are small, moving, and annoying. My ‘office’ (you can hear the air quotes) iz impregnable by zem.” Well, that’s good. Although the realization she was being literal is a bit...eerie.

Said office seems...not all that different from anything else, honestly. Cauldron in the right corner, a pair of old storage chests, and a desk and two chairs- but what REALLY catches your attention is what’s on the desk. An old fashioned typewriter. And… “Is that paper?” you ask in surprise. You didn’t think she would…

“Eh?” She then notices said typewriter and frowns, like she’s annoyed you saw that. “...Oui. It iz most rare indeed. Az I said, myself an’ technology are no friends. ‘Owever, before you ask, it iz supplied at great cost to myself. I have per’aps ten or so sheets.” Wow. That’s not much. “And non, I will not tell you ze supplier’s name. Zey do not have it all ze time, and it iz difficult for zem to acquire even for zem.” Well...shit.

“Alright,” you decide, keeping it in the back of your head for now as you both take a seat. “Might as well start. So, this all started at the library…” You give a quick overview of things, and hand over the sheet of paper. “Check this out. It’s got your group name on it.”

She frowns deeply as she takes it, looking it over. “...zo it does. Zis was recent, az well.” She blinks once, slow and thoughtful. “Unnerving.”

“You said it. Anything about the ‘Progenitors’ leap out at you?” you ask. “Even ever heard of them? I haven’t.”

She pauses, thinking, and muttering to herself in French as she taps a long, spindly finger. Oddly enough, for her morose attitude when you first met her, you’re starting to buy her as a leader. Eventually, she lightly sighs, and returns her focus to you. “I do not. ‘Owever, zere may be someone I know ‘oo does.”

“And who’s that?” You ask.

She sighs. “Audrey. Unfortunately. An’ she iz asleep.”

Oh yeah, you’d heard of her. She’d given Taminy her gnat powers, or something like that? She’d sounded a bit...more off than usual, to you, but it seems like Susie’s not exactly keen on meeting her. “So, when does she wake up?”

“When she pleases,” Susie mutters. “And even I do not dare to wake ‘er lightly.”

> “...is she that unstable?” You should probably figure out more about her...
> “Then, maybe we can change topics.” Like trying to ferret out where she got that paper from…
> “Then could you bring it up later, or maybe help with some research yourself?”
> Other

>>5045768
>> “Then, maybe we can change topics.” Like trying to ferret out where she got that paper from…

>>5045768
> “Then could you bring it up later, or maybe help with some research yourself?”
>"... how do you know that this Audrey knows about these Progenitors?"
>"What rank is she? I know you're the highest at B."
That's a slip girl.

>>5045768
>>5045777
Supporting.

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I hope we're not leaving the Guild right after this - if we can't talk about neither the slime nor the investigation then we might need an alibi for our visit. We came early, so there's plenty of free time until the training day. Might as well say hello to Taminy and Kira - the latter told us that she could help with magic training for Jago and Prima. And maybe we can meet more goth chicks and monster-girls.

Writing shortly. A bit late tonight.

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>>5046712
I'm not objecting to that, if things go well they can become one of our strongest allies.

There are still a bit after this.

- The group training.
- Improving Gartoum.
- Meeting with Lunaluna.
- Cashing in the investigators' favor.
- Helping Izumi's friend Ai with her dilemma.
- Dealing with murder mystery's ongoing aftermath.

Should be all, but I dunno if something's missing or not.

>>5045768
>>5045777
>>5045888
You sigh. It sounds like she’s not someone to be trifled with at all, no. “Then could you bring it up later, or maybe help with some research yourself?”

She makes a face as though you just asked her to bite into a massive lemon. “If I remember, oui. But she sleeps for days at a time. I am not zo interested in research...but per’aps I can delegate ze request. If Audrey does not wake up in a reasonable time to ask, it may be prudent to do zo.”

And something about that twigs at you. "Actually, on that front,”... how do you know that this Audrey knows about these Progenitors?"

She shrugs. “Audrey knows much that we are surprised she does. ‘Ze Queen haz ‘er informants’, az she would say.” She sighs again. “I am personally baffled by ‘ow she divines ‘er intelligence. For all my power, I am clueless az to ze matter. ‘Er and her alone knows.” That...sounds impressive for a non-Deal Maker.

Impressive, and perhaps a bit suspicious. "What rank is she? I know you're the highest at B." If you’re recalling right. And that would mean-

“Non,” she interrupts your train of thought. “I said I was ze highest ranking zat would cooperate with ze logistics of ze merger. ‘Audrey iz…” she trails off, trying to recall something as her expression becomes contemplative, but then she shakes it, clearing her head of it. “...it iz irrelevant. Ze point is she is mozt stubborn about all zis. For all her power, she az been mewing like a kitten upon ze merger’s decision. She ‘az told us to ‘figure it out ourselves’, and merely alternates between ze bedroom and ze Room of Doors now.” You blink. “Ah, ze deployment area,” she explains. Ah. Although, that’s strange…

> “...I’d have imagined that someone with that kind of power and influence would be able to put a halt to proceedings, right? Or at least gum up the works?”
> “Well, is there anyone else we might be able to talk to in here that miiiight know something? Even remotely?”
> “...Why are you hiding her rank? You’re not trying to hide anything important, are you?”
> Other

As a reminder, barring certain obvious things (like training, and the film shoot in a way), not every issue in the Intersection that's been brought up is intended to be resolved in a single arc/effort. Don't feel pressured to check off everything on >>5046764's list (indeed, if you abide by it at all) if you want to do a job before/afterwards. Just saying to alleviate any pressure early.

>>5046825
> Other
>> “Then, maybe we can change topics.” Like trying to ferret out where she got that paper from…
She agreed to help, I see no reason to press that issue.
>>5046764
>Should be all, but I dunno if something's missing or not.
Part of the movie deal was actor training. We could ask someone in the Guild about Gartoum and we can visit Ai after the training session (Cylica owes everyone lunch)>>5029050, but either way that's a rather long list of stuff to do. I'd like to go on a mission before the end of this year, so maybe we could time-skip some events (like filming, actor training and waiting for Luna) or switch to another character and go on their mission instead (which could also count as a time-skip).

>>5046825
>>5046844
Supporting and
>"Suzette, for the good of us all if you can get anyone in the know to cooperate do so. No one likes conspiracies when they're happening right under the Intersection, especially when they also involve our own groups without our knowing. I bet some of the highest ranks are close to clueless about this."
This will push her further without revealing our hands too much.

>>5046825
These >>5046844 >>5046875 but with
> “Well, is there anyone else we might be able to talk to in here that miiiight know something? Even remotely?”
as well

>>5046764
>>5046844
>>Should be all, but I dunno if something's missing or not.
Also there's a Roller Derby match. One of the X-twins would be visiting the event - it came up during the investigation in the movie studio.

Run will happen in about 5 hours. Just a note since I didn't post yesterday.

Writing!

>>5046825
>>5046844
>>5046875
>>5046936
“Alright, then, maybe we can change topics,” you relent. But before she can get much of an expression of relief, you continue. "But Suzette, for the good of us all, if you can get anyone in the know to cooperate, do so. No one likes conspiracies when they're happening right under the Intersection, especially when they also involve our own groups without our knowing. I bet some of the highest ranks are close to clueless about this." It’s a concern no matter who you are, and while you’re not sure if you want to be THE ONE to find this out, you’re still concerned.

“Mmmm…” she seems reluctant to say much else, but you can tell she’s already tired as she begins to type out something to herself. “I enjoy ze discussion of conspiracies, but not zo much ze solving of zem as I said.” She rips the paper off the top, placing it down on her desk. A list of notes to herself, you can see, filling the page, and at the bottom, a line reminding her to ‘look at corruptive conspiracy in city. Ask the usuals.’ once the paper is taken from the device. Still...ze will cause us much calamity if it iz left to fester, I am sure.” Well, you don’t know, but you’d also rather NOT be in a position to have to find out.

“That’s all I’m saying. Thank you.” You’re not going to press that topic anymore, at least. But you very much ARE interested in where she got that paper of hers. “So, anywho, moving on. How IS your team doing, on the whole? Making good motes?”

“Eh,” she shrugs, and even that is more...dare you say, animated, than before. Getting off the topic does seem to have improved her mood. “Recently zere was a rather complicated task of retaining ze livelihood of a wicked citadel against hunters of ze creatures of ze night. Eet was entertaining. I ‘aden’t used a plague spell in quite some time zat was anything beyond irritable bowels.” Ew. “I was inspired, zo I brought ze good cauldron. Juno was...less so enthused, but Francisca enjoyed it. Zen again, specter. Iz what she does.” She shrugs. “It paid quite well, zo the facilities were...substandard.” Her face goes flat at that, but she doesn't elaborate.

Neat. Now, how to get her to talk about that paper... ?

> "Good cauldron? There's different varieties?" Maybe if you can get her to talk about at least one supply source, you can backtrace a bit...
> "Is Juno feeling okay about it now? You all are pretty close, right?" Maybe you can approach this from another angle- her allies.
> "Anything you plan on doing with that kinda pay?" Maybe she'll let something slip.
> Other

>>5048515
> "Anything you plan on doing with that kinda pay?" Maybe she'll let something slip.
> "Maybe you should look into getting at least one FutureSight for better coverage. You do know where to get one right?"

>>5048515
> "Good cauldron? There's different varieties?"
>Might as well also ask her about what other materials she uses. If she mentions anything about using crystals (ball shaped or otherwise), we might have a way to get her more interested in helping us figure this out. Just have to remember compensating the tech team afterwards.

>>5048515
>> "Good cauldron? There's different varieties?" Maybe if you can get her to talk about at least one supply source, you can backtrace a bit...
>Might as well also ask her about what other materials she uses. If she mentions anything about using crystals (ball shaped or otherwise), we might have a way to get her more interested in helping us figure this out. Just have to remember compensating the tech team afterwards.
FutureSights are given as a reward by Deal Makers, so I assume they can't be bought. Also she's a technophobe.

>>5048515
>>5048533
>>5048536
+ no complains here from me, let's go for jolly cooperation. She doesn't have to use the FutureSight herself, and damn thing's way too useful.

Writing!

>>5048533
>>5048543
We might as well ask if she knows of anything that would work similarly to a FutureSight, but through magic instead of tech.

>>5048543
Well, I assume they're not THAT hard to get since our small outfit managed to have three. An up and rising group like the Guild should have no trouble procuring one if that's true.

>>5048515
>>5048533
>>5048536
>>5048543
"Good cauldron? There's different varieties?" Maybe you can get her talking about her supplier in a roundabout way…

“Quite,” she says, with yet more glimmer in her eyes. “Ze common conception is zat a cast iron cauldron is all you need, ‘owever zat is a misconception. Like zo much else, et iz a simplification of what goes into a witch’s materials. Cast iron ez common, oui, ‘owever zere are spells and creations et iz far less amenable to making. Anyzing zat involves fae material iz NOT somezing you want to make in a cast iron cauldron, for example. Ze iron depletes ze magical affinity. You would do better with an oaken cauldron for zat, or perhaps simple stainless steel.” Huh. “Zere are many such factors zat go into brewing, or anyzing else to be done with a cauldron, really.”

“Where do you get specialist stuff like that? There a big market for it?” you ask.

“Non, sadly,” she admits. “While zere are iron cauldrons in abundance, few areas are zo specialised as to make zem out of alternate materials. Zey must be crafted personally or specially ordered.” Didn’t know that. “It can be...pricey.”

“Oh? Is it the same for other components?” You hazard.

She shrugs. “Some. Ozzers not so much. I tend to prefer normal steel, bone, an’ organic material.”

>Do you think Tami might need such components?
>Well, where would you even find those rare things?
>Does anyone else need these kinda supplies around here, or is it just you?
>Other

>>5048598
>Do you think Tami might need such components?
>Well, where would you even find those rare things?
>"If you need anything crystal or gem related, I've got a couple of coworkers who might be able to help with something custom."

>>5048598
>>5048603
This one plus
>"Said coworkers can use more niche materials themselves. I'm sure cauldrons or other magical implements aren't out of their league."
Setting up the carrot.

>>5048598
>>5048603
>>5048608
This.
Tbh cast aluminum cauldrons are just as common nowadays as cast iron or steel. Basically any metal or alloy could work.

>>5048598
>>5048603
>>5048608
Well we did gave them a hella lot of extra wiggle room (plus an incoming bot?). Surely they won't mind.

>>5048603
Oh, yeah, almost forgot:
>Ask if she knows about mushrooms and their care and maintenance. She might have a book we could scan or borrow.

Writing, then!

>>5048598
>>5048603
>>5048608
>>5048612
>>5048614
“Do you think Tami might need such components?” It’s an easy in to what you really want.

“Once she improves, I may’aps even recommend trying such. Catgut string might be quite useful for ‘er, but az she iz now, she wouldn’t be able to utilize such a tool so well, if she iz able to at all. Aside from zat...” She pauses, thinking about it for a moment, but merely shrugs. “It ez up to ‘er. Zere is ze possibility she may desire a focus, buuut...it iz a crutch. A pale imitation of power an’ nozing she would be well served for learning with.” Huh. Seems she’s particularly negative on foci. “Anyzing else would be tools for spellwork, and zat is not what is needed for ‘er.” Drat. “She may be capable of using ozzer thread types, but zat requires testing, and I would not bozer unless it is of rare material.”

“Hm. Well, I guess I’m asking because while I’m not interested, I know some folks that might be, in terms of scientific study,” you explain. “Especially if it’s anything crystal or gem related. If you need anything like that, they’re your girls.”

To your surprise, she rears back momentarily and makes a face. “Répug...non,” she mutters, sighing, and the expression quickly goes away. “Well,” she says, speaking louder, “Zat is unnecessary. If appreciated, for ze little zat is worth. I ‘ave my ways of finding materials.”

“Well, where...how would you even find those?” you ask out of curiosity.

>Roll 1d20+2, best of three.