>>5030258
>“We must first have you come to a tailor, you must be able to present yourself even in this city.”

Presentation is important, and hopefully N will have some control over it. Good to see that you're back qm

>>5030258
>>“The youngest sister of the plutocrats of Zaibatsu corporation arrived in Night City, her governess requested a chance to meet through your governess.”

>>5030258

>“We must first have you come to a tailor, you must be able to present yourself even in this city.”

i need to catch up, anybody has a link to the last thread?

>>5030345
https://archived.moe/qst/thread/4957335/
there never was a suptg archive. qm please add this link to a new post for people that want to catch up

“We must first have you come to a tailor. You must be able to present yourself even in this city.”

“But no one’s gonna know who I am.”

In a way, that questioned seemed to make him a bit… miffed.

“Known or not, an Arasaka must conduct themselves at their best. You cannot dress in some pedestrian clothing like many do.”

Two servants arrived with pristine but somewhat bland suit, along with a stylized face mask that would cover your nose and mouth along with belts and other clothes. They were all sparkling, and the cleanest and the most perm pressed cloths there were. With a screen between you and the others the changing didn’t take long, except when you were done Takemura stare at you, my god he must actually have a cyberware for his face muscles or something.

“What?”

“Forgive my blunt reply, your way of dressing is not appropriate to the Arasaka name. Please hold for a moment.”

With a quick nod, the maids surrounded you like a pack of scavs. Their hands slithered and scurried around your body as they fixed the “mistakes” of your clothes. Honestly, who in Night City actually buttoned up completely and wore belts correctly? These people were whack. You enter the limousine with Takemura across from you, silent as a statue with eyes vigilant as a targeting drone.

>Skip the ride to the tailor shop
>Talk to Takemura (Write-in)

>>5030564
>For how long will this mask be necessary?

>>5030564
>>5030575
+1 this. Welcome back, by the way!

any other votes?

>>5030564
>For how long will this mask be necessary?

>>5031087
I half-expect somebody to ask us "If I take that off, will you die?" anytime N wears any mask somewhere

You wore masks before, back when you were in Santo Domingo the fumes and the air were enough to make your lungs black. But you never liked wearing one, especially when it served no purpose. For now you take the mask off since the windows were tinted. The soft leather seat and the smell of cleanliness was odd to get used to.

“How long do I have to wear this mask?”

“Until you arrive to your new home in Tokyo.” Takemura answered mechanically.

“Sounds like a pain… I don’t like wearing a mask.”

“A pain you must bear. You are now Reiichi Araksaka, there will be true pain and danger in the future.”

“Is that so…”

The ride went silently, any attempt at small talk was shut down like a boulder dropped on to a rat. The streets of Night City were the same as usual. You never been to Westbrook, let alone North Oak. You heard of them, but never even set foot in North Oak. Security guards were littered around the streets like a pack of gangs, fiercely protecting their territory. There were even Trauma Teams stopping by to get some recaf and food. Every road the car took dragged the attention of everyone here. Once you arrived to some fancy four story store, the onlookers were like a hungry horde of rats.

“Your mask, waka-sama.”

The mechanical mask wrapped its metal arm around your head. With a clear click and clack, the mask snugly concealed your face. Once you entered inside… wow, that was all you could think of. And as always, the Arasaka symbol was boldly presented at the front entrance.

“Welcome sir.”

The greeter did a quick retina scan by the look of his eye flashing just a bit.

“Welcome back, Mr.Salus and Mr.RoweThis way please, I will guide you to a booth.”

It was more of a restaurant than a clothing store. The clerk gave you a catalogue to pick from. Before you could make a choice, Takemura already ordered the clothes, the kind that has choking collars and that screams eddies.

“I can’t choose my own clothes now?”

“With all due respect, do you know how to look presentable in suits?”

“N-No… I don’t.”

His silence was heavy and the gaudy pop music only made the mood worse. Awkward tension slithered around your tense throat.

>“Can’t I at least pick something? Like color or something no one can really tell?”
>“So how much freedom will I really have?”
>Write in

>>5031783
>“Can’t I at least pick something? Like color or something no one can really tell?”

>>5031783
>What of out of public clothes?

>>5031783
>“So how much freedom will I really have?”
Let's cut to the chase--no use in beating around the bush here.

>>5031783
>“So how much freedom will I really have?”
this
>“How long do I have to wear this mask?”
>“Until you arrive to your new home in Tokyo.” Takemura answered mechanically.
>“Sounds like a pain… I don’t like wearing a mask.”
Extremely painful... but we're not a big guy yet

The silence continued to oppress what should've been a fun or at least somewhat relaxing atmosphere. Instead, in front of you was some hard faced old man… would it kill them to have some hot chicks as your escort? You stare at the rising steam of the tea cup dissipating in the air idly, Takemura sat still like a cold stiff corpse in the streets. At least a corpse would be somewhat interesting to look at.

“So, how much freedom will I really have.”

Takemura didn’t take his attention from the tea, he took a sip, sneered at it, then placed the tea back on to the plate. The cyberware eyes was uncanny to look at, the way the small bright lining of the eyes stared so coldly, so devoid of life, just what kind of guy had to be to have the trust of Saburo Arasaka?

“If you behave and do what is expected of you, you will have your freedom. However, stepping outside your mansion you will always need a bodyguard and your governess must know.”

“And?”

“That is all you need to know. If there are instances of restriction, you will be notified.”

That was a pile of gono shit.

“Like not being able to choose what I wear.”

“Yes, that is correct. This may not seem like it now, but this is for your best, waka-sama.”

“Yeah, I’m sure it is…”

There was no disappointed sigh or any sign of admonishment from Takemura, he instead silently sipped his tea as he waited for the clothes to arrive. As soon as the items arrived, you left quickly as you entered the store. The body guards that followed you carried the item with them as they followed you to the car.

“Where are we going now?”

“To Night City Airport, you will leave for Tokyo now.”

Instead of going through the packed airport parking lot, you were instead taken through another route that was guarded heavier than the NCPD main office. You didn’t even go through that airport either but through another route that led you straight to the hangar and to the jet. Seeing up so close, it was bigger than you thought. And of course, the Arasaka symbol didn’t escape your eyes. The door opened with a pressurized hiss, along with a mini escalator that was entirely unnecessary seeing it only took about fifteen steps or so to get into the jet.

>Skip to Tokyo
>Speak with Takemura (write-in)
>Explore the jet
>Watch TV

I'll be busy due to college so replies might take a while. Just a heads up. I post update on my discord and that's the fastest way to know when updates are up.

https://discord.gg/pTFUHUhN

>>5033364
>>Skip to Tokyo

>>5033364
>Watch TV
Maybe something will happen before we leave, who knows

>>5033584
+1

>>5033364
>Watch TV

>>5033364
>Skip to Tokyo
Boring, let's get things moving along

If Takemura didn’t want to talk you weren’t going to bother him. Not to mention you doubt you could make an actual conversation with him, as far as you know it looked like he didn’t want to make any conversation either. So, there was no other way to entertain yourself but the television, switching around the channels there wasn't much to watch. There was entertainment news, but it was about people you couldn’t give two gonk shit about. Though there was one.

“After their another tour, Us Cracks are FINALLY returning to Tokyo after their successful world tour!” The anchorwoman said. “Though, it seems that in Tokyo there will be another celebrity coming soon by the tightened security in Tokyo’s Arasaka district. Who could it be? Stay tuned to find out.”

The next news was actual news, with formally dressed new anchors with green and red bars of the stocks. At least, that’s what you thought it was.

“-signs indicate that there will be ground shaking news within the Arasaka corporation. While the sources are unknown even to the higher echelons in the Arasaka corporations, it seems that Militech are also preparing to make an announcement of a new partnership as well.”

You take a sip of water after the meal idily. It was scary how news travel so fast, even if it wasn’t about you specifically the fact that they could tell there was something happening… the talk about corpos having eyes and ears everywhere rang true. From the window the endless sky stretched as far as the eyes could see, bathed by the pouring moon light, unobstructed and ever so present.

Down to your water, the seat, the cloth on the stewardess, and even the interior had the Arasaka symbol blazed on. At least you could avoid the moon by staying inside for fuck’s sake...

POV

>Takemura
>Elizabeth Hawthorne (N’s governess)
>Saburo Arasaka
>???

>>5035480
>???
THE MYSTERY BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOXXXX

>>5035480
>Saburo Arasaka

>>5035480
>Elizabeth Hawthorne (N’s governess)

I only just noticed the quest is up again.
A week late, but welcome back NCQM.

I'll either need a tie breaker or someone rolling a d4 dice since the votes are pretty divided

>>5035480
Swapping >>5035487
to
>>5035783
Just to get the ball rolling.

>>5035783
+1

>>5036108
I hope this quest becomes more kino later on. Slow burns can be nice if the QM doesn't drop their quest, you dig?

Alright votes are counted

If the dialogue is italics it means they’re speaking japanese.

A mess, that boy was a mess.

He possessed the attributes of a plutocrat to be certain. Resourceful, brave, curious, but there were also undesirable traits that were sprouted from him. Uncouth, casual, no bearing, no elegance, and most of all, signs of a rebel with the tiniest immorality. Elizabeth Hawthorne was proud of her work. She nurtured young plutocrats in Britain, France, Russia, and in her most recent work, Kyoto. She was honored to be hired by the Arasaka but knew there would be a challenge, and a challenge it was.

The child was raised in Night City. A place she never visited up until now, but from the records and documents it was a place of unfathomable filth. For two years in a row Night City was the worst place to live, and this child survived for all of his life. Capability of a plutocrat marinated in the mire of carnage… ever so soaked in with death and pestilence. The child needed to be molded quickly, with thorough discipline and suffocated with the lessons of obedience and restriction.

The room was quiet, the black and white walls and the minimalistic elegance. A lean glass of wine rested on the black and gold table. Hawthorne’s leg was crossed as she made the schedule for the heir of Arasaka. Her phone finally chimed, she calmly sighed, the boy had finally arrived. Her test will begin now. Outside the airport lounge she watched the jet land, the boy tiredly went down the stairs after Takemura. At the receiving area, Hawthorne bowed to the heir.

“Welcome to Tokyo, waka-sama.”

“Oh thanks.”

“Words of thanks are to be used sparingly, please remember that next time.”

“Sorry about that-”

This boy…

“That goes much more regarding apologies.” Hawthorne said sharply.

The ride was silent, and it was painfully obvious the heir didn’t do well in silence from his fidgeting. Another thing she wrote down to fix one day. Inside the HQ, Hawthorne gave a curt farewell to the heir as he took the elevator to the top floor, where Saburo Arasaka was waiting for his grandson.
In a few days, Arasaka Corporation would be shaken to its core.

>>5036623
The elevator ride was long, as it was nerve wracking to think about. Having an unmoving statue that was Takemura did not help either. Just how long was the fucking tower to take this long? Would it kill them to have some kind of elevator music or something? Wasn’t Arasaka rich enough to have that at least instead of this awkward silence?

“Are you nervous?” Takemura suddenly asked.

“I-I don’t know.”

“I understand that he may seem like a stranger, but he cares for you. That is a fact.” Takemura said. “I’ve known Arasaka-sama since he was a child.”

“That so. Well I don’t know him. He is a stranger.”

“As you say, waka-sama.”

Saburo Arasaka was your grandfather. But to you, blood didn’t mean a damn thing. It always made you wonder. Why of all places did your mother bring you to Night City to live in? The answer was now obvious, she was the daughter of Saburo Arasaka. Living in Japan was unfathomable, no matter what she did she would be under the ever watching eyes. Though now you had another guess.

The hall toward the office was long and narrow, black and gold dominated the interior with barely any decorations, save for the frames of the previous CEOs that were placed on an altar. The absolute silence screamed, if a pin was dropped it would echo like a grenade. Yours and Takemura’s footsteps echoed like bullets being shot in a hollow alleyway. Each step felt heavier, tugging at your ankles like growing shackles.

Finally, you arrive at a tall double door with the Arasaka symbol. The three circles felt like eyes staring down at you unceasingly. Takemura first knocked, then opened the door casually. You followed him toward the long table with the glass wall that showed all of Tokyo that glittered like scattered diamonds in an abandoned warehouse after a deal gone bad.

It took a few seconds to bring your attention toward the middle aged man, who was wearing a traditional robe instead of a suit. That was him, Saburo Arasaka, your grandfather.

File: st,small,507x507-pad,600x(...).jpg (27 KB, 600x600)

27 KB JPG

>>5036625
“Arasaka-sama, your grandson is here to greet you.”

“Good, leave me with him. I wish to speak to my grandson alone.”

Takemura bowed and left. There he was, Saburo Arasaka, your grandfather. The man walked toward you calmly with quiet grace. Nothing like the supposedly “Johnny Silverhand of Japan”. You guess his rocker persona died when he took the responsibility.

“You can take your mask off now. There’s no one else here.”

You did, he stared at you then smiled.

“You look nothing like that man. Your father that is. Good.” He said. “How was your trip?”

“It was fine.” You say with a shrug.

“Good. Japan may not feel like home but it will be soon, I’m sure of it. I know I am a stranger in your eyes, but know that you are my grandson. You and I are family, you can trust me.”

“Thank you.” Was all you could say.

“We will celebrate tomorrow night. For now, rest. The journey must be tiring you. You may go.”

You turn around to walk until-

“One more thing.” He said. “It will be a disgrace to our name if people such as us would speak in a crude language like english. We are to speak Japanese, understood?”

“Yes.”

“Good, I will see you tomorrow. Takemura will escort you back home.”

You put your mask back on and leave. Inside the elevator you and Takemura share another silence as the elevator descended, about halfway down the elevator stops. A-

>Young woman dressed in a black and gold kimono entered with her own escort.
>A woman entered, Takemura bowed. “Greetings, Hanako-sama.”
>A white man entered, chewing the end of his cigar lightly. He sported a scar under his chin.

>>5036628
>Young woman dressed in a black and gold kimono entered with her own escort.

I'm going to assume that the update mixed up Saburo with Yorinobu

>>5036628
>Young woman dressed in a black and gold kimono entered with her own escort.
Who might this be?

>>5036656
yes that was a mistake of mine sorry about that

>>5036628
>A white man entered, chewing the end of his cigar lightly. He sported a scar under his chin.

Hey guys I got into a skating accident today so I won't be able to make an update today, that and I have a midterm to study for. Sorry about that.

>>5037314
dw about it

an update will be made today, sorry for the delays guys

It was a young woman, about the same age as you are, dressed in that robe clothing with a pretty bow. The guard next to her was just like Takemura, intimidating yet boring looking as all hell. Takemura bowed slightly to the girl and she reciprocated. The silk black hair swayed, freely flowing and smoothly. Man, that had to be some kind of fancy cleaning agent to have a hair like that, not to mention she looked pretty. Yet you couldn’t find a hint of surgery or a sign of cyberware one her.

“Good afternoon, it relieves me that you are doing well, Yumeko-sama.”

The girl gave a reserved smile, as if she forced it out. She looked bored more than anything. The guard glared at you like you were some kind of street scum… which he wouldn’t be entirely wrong about. The girl acted as if you didn’t exist at all, seeing how she didn’t even look in your direction.

“You look busy as usual, Takemura. Is that man with you?”

She spoke, but you swore she didn’t lay a single eye on you. With or without the mask, it would have been the same.

“Yes.” Takemura said. “Forgive him, he’s but a tourist from a newly joined corporation. Mr. Anders, may I introduce you to Ms.Jabami, the-”

“Don’t bother yourself telling a tourist that. The fact that he did not bow to my presence shows how insignificant he is. He should be grateful that I chose to pity him instead of being offended.” Jabami said.

Takemura simply nodded, underneath that mask of yours you sneered at the girl. The urge to flip her off and call her a cunt was slowly eased by the risks and problems it would cause as well. God what a cunt she was. And it looked like she was part of the Arasaka too, seeing she wore a kimono that had that fucking symbol on her like a collar on a dog. When the elevator door opened Jabami gave a curt farewell while giving you an indifferent glance.

“So who was she?”

“She is Ichiyo Jabami, second daughter of the Jabami family, under the control of the Kowabami patriarch. The Kowabami used to be a competitor, but was defeated in a proxy war seventy-five years ago. They are part of the Arasaka clan, a family by the bond of loyalty like many families that were absorbed. They are in charge of the Hokkaido region, which handles organic goods. She will most likely be in the mansion for tomorrow’s celebration. If I recall, she always frequented the garden while her elder sister made use of the dojo.”

“Sounds… interesting.”

The elevator went down toward the basement where you were taken to the limousine and brought to the Arasaka Mansion, your new home.

“Woah.”

“Come, waka-sama. I will guide you to your room. There will be time to explore the mansion fully.”

Inside your room it was a traditional “tatami” mat room, nothing like the concrete floor. It was still hard but the texture of the floor was much more pleasant. After a much needed shower and a change of clothes you were alone in your vast room.

>>5039163
>You were tired, and sleep came easily. (Skip to morning)
>Despite fatigue, there was no sleep in you. Just worries. (Explore mansion: Garden, halls, or dojo)

>>5039163
>Dojo
Ignore snotty bitches, acquire gains. We'll be bench-pressing everyone in this shithole before the week is done

>>5039165
>Despite fatigue, there was no sleep in you. Just worries. (Explore mansion: halls)

Would be nice to actually know how to get places

>>5039165
>>5039167
+1 to sigma
but also pay attention and look around the halls while we're on our way there

>>5039167
>>5039202
>>5039329
What are your opinions on us gradually building up a hit list? A list of people to punish/dispose of if/when we become the Arasaka boss. Everybody that ever did us wrong during this time will be on it, like this Yumeko bitch. Likewise, a list of those that tried to help us or do right by us to reward once we rise to power, like Takemura and River and those few Mox girls. What do you think?

>>5039163
>>5039165
backing >>5039167

>>5039464
Sounds good, but I don't plan three threads ahead, anon.
Better focus on the here and now instead of overthinking one specific thing we might be doing in the future if things go in a specific way.

>>5039464
I feel like this is hilariously vengeful for no good reason.

>>5039486
I think this is just your regular cyberpunk corpo power fantasy. It's pretty cool if you can vibe with it, I just hope NCQM is fine with it.

>>5039464
Btw, can we add Niciński and Badowski to our special book?

>>5039486
>hilariously vengeful for no good reason
How come?

>>5039501
>planning to cap a rake for being narcissistic
I have an interestit idea if we ever get to the point of being a raging psychopath with a cyber deathnote, tho.

Hey guys midterm week is almost over so I'll be doing an update tomorrow. Thanks for being patient.

>>5039495
I mean I'm cool with it but don't expect this to be a total cyberpunk corpo power fantasy. IF you guys are gonna make a hit list you guys better have a good reason/method/after plan for it. Man you guys are cold blooded.

>>5040606
>coldblooded
I'm not the one who came up with the idea. I just get how it could be cool in a certain way.

>>5040606
It's less for edge factor and more "hey our boy has people shitting on him left and right and not thinking twice about it, why not punish them for it in the future, if that's possible?" Plus its less an outright hit list, as I said that I'd want to help those that helped N too. Like in those old stories where the destitute and street-rat prince ends up the king, then rewards the people that helped him unknowingly.

>>5041096
Fair point, I can see what you mean. But as a new QM the "hit list" was something I didn't expect at all kek. I'm just happy you guys are discussing amongst yourselves.

>>5041096
I thought you just wanted to feel the power of deleting people of a corpo executive. Now I look like a psychopath.

So anyway, if we ever decide to get some rat or maelstrom flatlined, let's make it look like a spectacular planned accident or arrange a proper execution with military fireworks (depending on the target).

>>5039464
>>5039329
>>5039167

Votes counted I'll get the update going

File: Qst Thread Pic 2.jpg (46 KB, 546x792)

46 KB JPG

Older art of the girl


The pale moonlight bathed wooden floor halls that were outside. Silence was steep, nothing like the busy landscape of Tokyo you saw in the car ride to the HQ building. Quiet chirps of some bugs poked through the noiseless air. It was strange, where were the guards? You were just getting used to them and now they were just… absent. The halls and the mansion itself were cast, intricate, like the webs of connected alleyways of Night City. As you mindlessly wandered you found yourself inside a dojo.

Wooden varieties of weapons were neatly shelved away. The light burst on, fluorescent light cut the gentle light of the moon. You squint your eyes and groan at the sudden change. Who the hell turned on the light? Eh, it was most likely a motion detector or something you suppose. There wasn’t much to look at, not to mention there were other things to look at in the mansion for sure. Still, maybe it’s best you go and try to sleep, you got a big day ahead of you after all. But… that sword looks so cool.

You pick up the katana and feel the weight, you entertain yourself by swinging the sword like you saw in some gang wars. Which, in honesty, you doubted they actually knew how to use the sword other than swinging it like a club. Nevertheless it was fun, it was like being some samurai of the old times. You put the sword back and examine other katanas. Why is there a dojo when guns were a better option? Unless the person was a walking catalogue of cyberware swords were useless.

“Hello there.”

In front of you was the latest android for training. The one that didn’t require messy wiring. Out of curiosity you turn on the machine. Huh, it looked like someone else was using it and forgot to shut it off properly. It did look like it was still programmable to a pre-made set of moves, handy stuff for training. You reset the machine to non-responsive to prevent the android from harming you.

“Oh wow, it even has a training system.”

>Turn it on and give it a whirl.
>Good to know, but you should really sleep
>Maybe you should explore more,
>Write in

>>5041511
>Turn it on and give it a whirl.

>>5041511
>Maybe you should explore more

We don't even have a leg

>>5041511
>Maybe you should explore more,

>>5041511
>Turn it on and give it a whirl.

>>5041511
>Maybe you should explore more,

>>5041511
>Maybe you should explore more
Remember where this is for later

Hey guys I'm not dead but college had me swamped. I'll get the update done soon, I am not gonna flake on my quest.

>>5043416
Chad NCQM keeping players updated.

>>5043416
No sweat, man--thanks for checking in and take your time!

You leave the android and continue to explore the mansion, though you didn’t find many important rooms or anything that was a note of interest. Sleep was slowly seeping into your bones and your eyes were getting drowsy. The warm interior of the mansion and the amber lights didn’t help either. Then, noises from afar caught your attention, and more importantly, the smell of food. Whatever it was, it smelled delicious. When you peeked at the entrance a herd of chefs and servants buzzed with activities. You didn’t know what kind of food you were looking at but it look good, your stomach growled with the same sentiment.

“Excuse me.”

A polite voice caught you by surprise. The servant girl bowed to you, somehow knowing that you were a guest, but by the looks of her expression she didn’t know who you really were.

“Yeah?”

“Oh” The servant girl replied with a quiet surprise. “Excuse me sir, this is the servant area, is there something I can help you with? Forgive me but, it looks like you’re lost.”

“I couldn’t sleep so I decided to explore a bit. Is this the kitchen or something?

“Yes, this is where the meal will be.” The girl answered politely. “It’s never this frantic before. But I heard a rumor that an important guest is coming tomorrow. So important that Arasaka-sama will be here himself! Well, you must’ve known that yourself.”

“Yeah, something like that.”

“You must be really lucky to eat them, they’re all organic food and synthesized at all...:” The girl blushed. “I’m s-sorry sir, I didn’t mean to say that!”

“It’s no big deal, really.”

“Whew, that’s a relief. You’re kinder than the usual guests. Most just ignore me or treat me like some kind of robot with legs. You remind me of the neighbors in Night City actually.”

“You’re from Night City?”

“Yes, my friends and I were picked up from an Arasaka officer, and all of us were given jobs. I was brought here because I can speak Japanese. I owe my life to them.”

Huh… it was uncanny seeing people talking about Arasaka in a good way. You’d have a better chance of getting free eddies than someone saying something positive about Arasaka after all.

>Actually I’m from Night City too.
>Give her a farewell and go to sleep, you got a big day ahead of you after all.
>Write in

>>5044115
>Ask her if it's okay for you to talk to her for a bit
Don't wanna interfere with her job, work in the Arasaka's kitchen must be hell.
>(If she can spare a minute or we can pardon her, given our high position) Ask her what's her story with Arasaka
>Give her a farewell and go to sleep, you got a big day ahead of you after all.
Don't tell her details about us, because we don't want gossips and rumors to get to the media.

>>5044115
>>5044145
support

>>5044145
I'll back this.

>>5044145
this, we are just some random nobody guest in this mansion being a bit curious

>>5045049
>>5044780
>>5044352
>>5044145
Votes are counted and writing

The kitchen was busy for sure. Just about anyone was either shouting across, moving boxes, furiously cooking, or prepping ingredients. So… what was she doing? Her short bob cut hair pleasantly swished as she turned her head to the kitchen and then back to you. It was good to know that at least they took care of the servants well.

“By the way, I hope I’m not bothering while you work. I don't want to get you in trouble.”

“Well…”

You and the girl glance toward the kitchen and notice some chefs and other workers eyeing you and her. When they noticed your gaze all of them returned to work. The servant girl nervously chuckled and shrugged, she must’ve met eyes with her boss or something.

“They won’t mind since it’s you I’m talking to. It’s not like they can interrupt someone like you too.”

“I’ll take whatever blame then. So, you were picked up by an Arasaka officer?”

The girl nodded grimly.
“When I was six my parents were murdered by s-scavs on their way home from work.” She squeezed the apron on her servant's clothes. “An Arasaka officer and her bodyguards saved me before I was killed as well. He took me to his home and gave me a job.”

“That’s… awfully kind.” You say while hiding your suspicion.

“He is, I’m thankful for him everyday. Not only me but other people that were taken in by Mr.Hoffman as well, without him most of my friends would still be in the streets!”

“Mr.Hoffman huh?” You mutter the name yourself.

“Yup! He’s the leader of the Research and Recreation Division!”

“That’s good to know. Thank you, uh, I never got your name.”

“Samantha, my friends call me Sammy.”

“Thanks. I’ll see you around.”

You returned to your room, wondering who this “Mr.Hoffman” was. A person like that couldn’t possibly work for Arasaka, let alone a leader of Research and Recreation. The next morning you hear the bustling sound of people who were preparing for the feast. You take your shower and dress into new clothes that were laid out. Unlike the stuffy suit, the clothes were like pajamas, encased in a soft and silky robe.

“Excuse my intrusion, young master.”

The screen door opened, and the governess walked in. In her hands were files of your “relatives”. The governess gave you basic ideas of who they are and taught you how to speak toward them. It was up until the evening that you and your governess learned the family structure. It was now time to meet your “family.” Nothing to worry about… right?

>This isn’t gonna go well… (+20 Cynicism)
>It’s gonna be fine, you’re worrying too much. (+20 Optimism)
>Just do what you can, whatever may come of it just don’t be a bitch (+10 Cynicism, +10 Optimism)

>>5046589
>There has to be at least one of them that's like that Yumeko bitch, but there has to be at least one that's somewhat understanding like River was. Or maybe they're all the same, who knows?
>What will they see when they look at you? An asset? A relative? A fool to use and discard whenever? A liability? A potential ally?
>Your mom had to have at least a few relatives that liked her before she fled to Night City, and maybe they'll like you too. Or maybe they hated her for being your grandfather's favorite instead of them, and they'll see your reveal as her being a thorn in their side from across the veil.
>Is there gonna be one person that does the whole "I knew you when you were a baby!" thing? There's always one like that in any family gathering, isn't there?
>Whatever you'll do, try to stick to the lessons the governess gives, do what you can... and above all, avoid being a bitch to anybody. (+10 Cynicism, +10 Optimism)
I hope this is a nice write-in, and I hope you can fit a bit of this in-character somehow

>>5046589
>It’s gonna be fine, you’re worrying too much. (+20 Optimism)

>>5046603
>This isn’t gonna go well… (+20 Cynicism)

I'll need a tie breaker soon guys or a D3

>>5047991
I (>>5047096) will change to support >>5046603.

Alright I will wait till tomorrow for more votes and start on the reply. Thank you for sticking around guys.

>>5046603
Supporting

>>5048444
There's no need to wait unless votes are undecided, NCQM.

File: Qst Thread 2 Pic 2 edited.jpg (48 KB, 475x871)

48 KB JPG

pic is Kirari Jabami

“Remember young master,” Elizabeth said firmly. “In the feast, they will gauge you to see what kind of person you are. Be cordial, but not friendly. Depending on today’s outcome, they will see you as either an asset, a family, a food, an ally, or an enemy. Do not be kind constantly because they will see it as a weakness. Too firm, and they will see you as arrogant. Let them know you are the unquestionable heir and nothing else.”

Those words echoed in your head. But mom had to have at least a few relatives that liked her before she fled to Night City right? Or maybe they hated her for being your grandfather's favorite instead of them, and they’ll see you just the same. You were about to enter a den of gangs, only they were rich silk and shat out gold bricks. You were a Night City kid through and through. It was time to show them you weren’t going to be their bitch.

It took hours of preparation and additional lessons with Elizabeth that you were finally ready to meet your relatives. With a glance, the clock was warning you it was almost evening. You were dressed in a traditional black kimono, and two stone-faced guards were standing next to you. Whoever they were, you were sure they were hired just to intimidate. You walk along the hallway, and once you arrived at the screen door the two guards open it for you. The screen doors split open, and you gain an eyeful of your relatives. More specifically, they were the leaders of the branch that resided in the newly formed prefectures.

Their eyes were sharp, yet it was hidden underneath a plastic smile that just about every corpos had. There was that girl you saw at the elevator along with a bored-looking older girl. Your grandfather sat at the end of the table. In the background were people dressed in kimonos playing what you can guess were traditional Japanese music. Your grandfather, Yorinobu smiled at your appearance. The woman that was sitting next to him was your grand-aunt, Hanako.

“Now you look proper. Sit down, and introduce yourself.”

You bow to him curtly, more of a nod really.

“I am Reiichi Arasaka, son of Kotomi Arasaka. It is a great honor to be in your presence, honored relatives. I hope that I will know you all heart to heart.”

You sit down at the other end of the table. The meal began after Yorinobu took his first bite. It was difficult to still fumble with the utensils, but seeing how no one seemed to mind it did not look like they were making fun of you yet. The air was tight and tense as if you were waiting for the wolves to jump at you at any given moments.

>>5049033
>>5049033
“Reiichi-kun.” It was an old man that spoke first. “This is your first time in Japan, yes?”

“It is. Majio-san.”

The old man was Majio Arasaka, he married into the name by marrying Saburo Arasaka’s sister. He controlled the Kyoto and a significant portion of Arasaka security training. The other hald was in Tokyo.

“No need to call me something so stuffy!” He bellowed with a hardy laugh. “We share the same name, you can call me uncle if you’d like. You should come to Kyoto, it’s a beautiful place with great food. I will give you a welcome fitting for a prince like you, my nephew!”

There was a single snide laugh. That woman was Kirari Jabami, the matriarch of the Hokkaido prefecture.

“Kyoto? That old and decrepit city? Such place is no place for our waka-sama.” Kirari elegantly. “Waka-sama. I can assure you that Kyoto cuisine is nothing compared to my prefecture’s bountiful meal. Hokkaido’s fresh air and nature will heal your weary body. My daughters will gladly keep you company as well, should you wish.”

“My daughters as well. One of my daughters also visits Night City! You two will find commonality I’m sure!” Majio-san added.

Current Family Gauge: Still Judging

>“I ask for both of you to be silent, this is a meal not a game of show off.” (Cynicism -10)
>“I am honored to be invited by both. I will try to see if I can visit you both.” (Optimism -10)
>Side with Majio-san
>Side with the woman
>“Perhaps we can arrange a visit once we start discussing business.” (Cynicism -5)
>“I will see if I can open a schedule and visit you both soon.” (Optimism -5)

>>5049037
>“Perhaps we can arrange a visit once we start discussing business.” (Cynicism -5)
Offer stays open, but we leave it to a better time

>>5049037
>“I will see if I can open a schedule and visit you both soon.” (Optimism -5)

They're talking about family, better to keep the same veneer as well.

>>5049274
+1

>>5049037
>>5049274
+1 to this--no sense in stepping on any toes yet

>>5049037
>“I will see if I can open a schedule and visit you both soon.” (Optimism -5)

Hey guys sorry for the missing update I’ll get one out tomorrow. College and what not.

>>5050728
Take your time

>>5050728
No worries, man--take care of yourself!

Sorry for not posting yesterday.

Current Family Gauge: They see you as someone who is capable of being diplomatic but still unsure.

5 Optimism, 10 Cynicism

Just like what Elizabeth taught you, a dense and plastic smile. Your lips curved up but not enough to show your teeth and your posture was stiff. You stopped hearing the quiet sound of a meal, but instead, a tense silence was screaming instead. A side needed to be chosen, if played too safe it would be a sign of weakness. For now, however, you couldn’t afford to have favorites. At a glance, you saw your grandfather watching as well.

“A trip to see the land of my birth would be a gift I cannot fathom, Majio-san, Jabami-san. At the moment, however, my education as an heir is more important. I will see if I can see you both once my schedule has been established.”

“Of course.” Majio said.

“I understand.” Jabami said.

Both glared at one another briefly, then smiled back at you. The meal continued and you let out an exhausted sigh hidden by an exhale through your nose. The meal was good, but honestly, you didn’t understand this Japanese foodstuff but it was a new experience you suppose. The meal went on quietly after that. Until another spoke.

“I heard you were fond of technology, waka-sama. Back when you used to scavenge- I mean look for prospective items. It must’ve been difficult to live on your own without your mother.”

The stale sympathy was accepted with a plastic smile. In the middle of the meal, Yorinobu left on the account of business. You became the only occupant of the important seat. For fuck’s sake you bet he knew you would be a fresh bait but he left on your own? Alright, relax, it’ll be alright.

“Yes, Kotomi was a kind soul. Though it was foolish of her to escape to Night City. What was she really thinking?” Another relative said.

You continue to eat your meal quietly.

“She was naive.” Another said.

“More like a petulant child. Imagine throwing away the throne of an heir.” One snickered under a hushed whisper.

“Rejecting Yorinobu-sama’s kindness, how impertinent. Your mother robbed our young master’s rightful place. Isn’t that right?”

>You were quiet, and the silence was deafening. The click echoed as you placed the chopstick on your bowl of rice. “It is improper to speak so gossip during a meal.” You quietly yet sternly said. [Optimism -5]
>“Don’t speak something you don’t know of. My mother had her reasons, it is wrong to speak of someone who can’t defend herself.” Not that you knew it yourself. [Optimism -5]
>You remembered your mother as a kind woman. While you didn’t know fully why she brought you to Night City, you never once thought she did for her own selfishness. You glare at the woman in silence, ensuring to see her eye to eye with your baleful glare. [Cynicism -10]
>“Don’t ruin my meal by talking about the dead.” [Cynicism -5]
>Write in

>>5052642
>“Don’t speak something you don’t know of. My mother had her reasons, it is wrong to speak of someone who can’t defend herself.” Not that you knew it yourself. [Optimism -5]
Give her the L.

>>5052662
That's the Optimism -10 option my dude. The QM typo'd and gave us 2 Optimism -5 options.

>>5052642
>“Don’t ruin my meal by talking about the dead.” [Cynicism -5]
Short and bittersweet

>>5052747
It isn't, since there's only 5 optimism points left, just wanted to make some variety to it

>>5052837
ah okay thanks for clarifying

>>5052642
>“Don’t speak something you don’t know of. My mother had her reasons, it is wrong to speak of someone who can’t defend herself.” Not that you knew it yourself. [Optimism -5]

>>5052642
>Don’t speak something you don’t know of. My mother had her reasons, it is wrong to speak of someone who can’t defend herself.” Not that you knew it yourself

File: Qst Thread 2 Pic 3 .png (170 KB, 650x650)

170 KB PNG

Follow me on pixiv or twitter if you like, I'd appreciate it!

0 Optimism 10 Cynicism

“Don’t speak something you don’t know of. My mother had her reasons, it is wrong to speak of someone who can’t defend herself.”

Not that you knew it yourself, you couldn’t help but not to find the reason to really care why she abandoned her life of an Arasaka. Then again, a life of luxury only mean the danger of being killed or being trapped in a gilded cage. Thoiugh you wouldn’ve traded a “free” life in the streets to a gilded cage in a fucking heartbeat. The person that spoke merely bowed with empty words of apology. The meal continued as usual, some silence and some speaking, though it looked like someone was badgering someone to say something, to test you out more.

There was one man that did take your attention away. A blond man dressed in Japanese clothing, better than and looking more comfortable in it. From Elizabeth’s briefing, this man was Harlaus Hoffman, the leader you were referred before by Samantha.

“Waka-sama.” Hoffman said. “I was told by Ms.Hawthorne that you are interested in technology. If you would visit me in my facilities. I would be honor to show you around.”

“Thank you, like I said I’ll try to see if I can visit you.”

“That’s good, my daughter’s been wanting to meet you ever since she met you. You remember her right? Her name is Nicole.”

“Wait what?” You clear your throat. “Can you say that one more time?”

Hoffman eyed around the guests astonished and jealous gaze. Of course they would be, his daughter (you bet he thought of his daughter as a pawn), had gotten to you first. What the fuck are the odds of that?

“My daughter. Nicole. I heard you two met before, shared stories even.” Hoffman said proudly.

“We-” You clear your throat. “We did meet but I didn’t- you let her be in Night City?”

“She has her bodyguards and she can defend herself as well.” Hoffman answered with a shrug. “Of course she wanted to boast but I told her to hold off for now. No need to make others jealous.”

There was a strained laughter from the other leaders that was done to hide their envy. You didn’t know when your grandfather was to return, but he better goddamn return soon. As expected, their discussion came to Zaibatsu Materials and AticusSteel brewing tension in Night City to assert their domination in Night City in raw materials. Their logging factories, mines, and other resources have been damaged on a small scale only… for now.

>>5054212
“Zaibatsu is begging on their knees now, how disgraceful. So is AticusSteel I heard toward Militech.”

“Disgraceful or not, we should assist them, then we’ll have a better foothold in Night City.” Majio said.

“We don’t need another war on our hand.” Hoffman said.

There was a quiet debate among the leaders, when one finally turned toward you. Some supported Zaibatusu and others AticusSteel with their own arguments. Some didn’t want a proxy-war at all

“You’re from Night City, waka-sama. What do you think?”

There was silence, as if they were waiting for you to speak.

Current Family Gauge: They see that you are attached or at least, do not hold a hatred or dislike of your mother. The way you replied further hold the belief that you are diplomatic but can be cold at times. Continuing to be diplomatic will make the family think you’re too neutral and unable to take sides.

>“Even if they ask, it is not in my position to say.” [-10 Cynicism, no penalty for neutral take]
>“This isn’t our war, there’s no point in needless deaths. Night City isn’t worth the troubles anyways.” [-10 Cynicism, no penalty for neutral take]
>“Zaibatsu is a Japanese corporation. It’s natural we assist them, especially when AticusSteel is going to Militech.”
>“If either company goes down, it’s better to take what’s remaining of them and have further influence in Night City.” [-10 Cynicism, no penalty for neutral take]
>“AticusSteel Is an older company and their name are plenty around in Night City. It’s better to assist a corporation that already has more influence.”
>“Trying to use me as a puppet are you? Speak your thoughts to my grandfather, not me.” [-10 Cynicism, no penalty for neutral take]

>>5054214
>“If either company goes down, it’s better to take what’s remaining of them and have further influence in Night City.” [-10 Cynicism, no penalty for neutral take]
Easy. Less production costs for Arasaka.

>>5054548
>Continuing to be diplomatic will make the family think you’re too neutral and unable to take sides
You sure you wanna answer that way? And what about adding a bit regarding N bringing up what he saw of corporate street fights? The relatives are asking N because he grew up in Night City, so this would still be subject-relevant

>>5054594
>doesn't read whole posts
>projects his thoughts onto my choice
>impulsively writes a wall of text
>doesn't vote himself
Not a real sigma.
Arasaka family will not be divided and ADHD-riddled Militech pests will seethe and dilate until they inevitably fall to our superior reign.

>>5054214
>“If either company goes down, it’s better to take what’s remaining of them and have further influence in Night City.” [-10 Cynicism, no penalty for neutral take]

>>5054548
+1, these family members better be satisfied with this

Hey guys I'm a little worn out so I'll be skipping today's update. I'm sorry.

>>5055692
Thats okay, you take care of yourself

>>5055692
all good

Current Family Gauge: Their patience at your neutrality is getting thin.

So from now on if you see italics they are speaking english. I tried to use it for japanese but I am wasting way too much time putting the italics every time. Also, sorry for the short update.

“If either company goes down, it’s better to take what’s remaining of them and have further influence in Night City.”

With an indifferent voice, you gave your answer while helping yourself to some side dishes.

“A safe option no doubt.”

“Yes, but I say we give Militech a fight they won’t forget. We were humiliated thirty years ago. I say it is our turn to do so.”

It was frighteningly funny how they cared little about the people that died in their war? Just so what? So they can have more money and power when they already had more than enough that would last hundreds of years?

“It seems like you have forgotten what had happened.”

“It’s precisely because of what happened thirty years ago!” The speaker shouted. “Our empire was ridiculed and we survived by the skin of our teeth while those bastards at Militech laughed!”

The argument between the two went on and on, to the point that you wondered if they would ever shut up or you had to intervene. For now, you chose to eat, oh look at that there’s some- The table clanked as a fist slammed down.

“Lowly farmers such as your branch should stay out of business of men!”

“How out of date you are. It is my produce that feeds your men!”

“And my men that protects your land!”

Majio-san and Jabami-san both bickered, but from the looks of the reactions it looked like a casual thing to the leaders.

“Bunch of lowly farmers, go crawl back to the dirt.”

Jabami-san laughed haughtily.
“Oh yes, and you to your shabby city wrapped in thin and fake gold. How pitiful your prefecture is.”

“Silence!”

It wasn’t Hoffman that spoke, but someone else. A gaunt man decked out in cyberware like some old time netrunner. He even had some tattoos that the Tyger Claws would have. Not to mention a scar around his neck and lips. You also noticed a portion of his pinky missing. That man was Kissatsu Kazuma.
“Acting like bickering children in front of our waka-sama. Either cool your heads or I will do it for you.”

Both of them stopped talking, then apologized to you with exasperation.

“I beg your forgiveness, waka-sama. To be so disgraceful in front of you, I am ashamed.” Jabami said.

“I shamed myself as well, please find forgiveness within you.” Majio-san said.

>>5056780
>Ignore both, and thanked Kissatsu. “Thank you for ending their bickering. It was getting tiresome.”
>“To argue in the absence of my grandfather. Am I some statue you polish to and ignore? Have shame on both of you!”
>Side with Jabami
>Side with Majio
>“I’m glad you two have found reason, please, let us continue our meal. My thanks, Kissatsu-san.”
>“It seems that only grandfather can make you hold your tongue. In that case, cool your heads until grandfather comes back to join the meal.”
>Write in

>>5056780
>>5056783
And an update, during12/11 I might be gone for seven days then if possible four to five months. If that happens, that means the thread is over. I'll try to get back as soon as possible to start a new thread.

>>5056780
Which one is the one for Zaibatsu? Which one is the one that started this petty argument?

>>5056783
>Take the side of whichever one started this argument at the table.
>Call them out for being imprudent. Don't they know Militech is going to get what's coming to them eventually? Surely there's some in AticusSteel that hate having to grovel towards Militech; that's a betrayal in the making right there.
>Call them out on needlessly fueling their bloodlust. N saw firsthand the desperate struggles among corporation people in the Night City streets (didn't he?). To willingly and OPENLY want more of our men to die to satiate his appetite, and make little to no progress furthering Arasaka in the process... that's far more humiliating than a mentally-conflated slight from thirty years ago, clung to and festered inside for this long.
>Once the fool is chewed out right here at the table, thank Kissatsu-san.
I hope this is good. I wanna roast this fucker not only as a point to the family that N can and will take sides if he has to, but to verbally smack some sense into them. If nobody tells you how retarded you're being, you will keep being retarded in your ignorance.

>>5056785
Don't worry, as long as the threads are archived properly and you announce in /qtg/ when you come back, it'll be fine.

>>5057125
sorry to break it to you that's basically going with all choices. You need to pick one.

>>5056783
>Ignore both, and thanked Kissatsu. “Thank you for ending their bickering. It was getting tiresome.”

>>5057201
>basically going with all choices
is it? how come? I thought I made it clear that's all an extension of
>Take the side of whichever one started this argument at the table.
so either siding with Jabami or Majio, depending on which one started this shit. I'm confused because it seemed unclear which one that was.

>>5057216
you can either admonish them both or thank kissatsu, it feels like you're trying to do too much

>>5057593
On mobile right now. I'll change my vote to just be siding with whoever started this petty argument. Kissatsu-san will get his thanks some other time. Oh well.

>>5056783
>>Ignore both, and thanked Kissatsu. “Thank you for ending their bickering. It was getting tiresome.”

>>5057203
>>5057705
Why not side with any of them?

>>5057905
Both are attempting to use N for their own means in the most petty of family politics. While N's neutrality may be found to be annoying to them, N "outranks" them in the end, and I don't want them to gain any perceived foothold.

I need more votes before I can reply guys. But the fact that you guys are discussing about it is hella awesome.

>>5056783
>Ignore both, and thanked Kissatsu.

>>5056783
changing my vote from
>>5057125
to
>Ignore both, and thanked Kissatsu. “Thank you for ending their bickering. It was getting tiresome.”

hey guys I'll be a bit busy today I'll gegt the reply going tomorrow or saturday, my uni is on a quarter system so everything is going by hella quick. Sorry about that.

You ignore them both, it’s best not to get involved with them further and maybe they’d understand why you wouldn’t favor them so early on… hopefully. Majio-san and Jabami-san excuse themselves back to their meals. You turned toward Kissatsu-san instead.

“Thank you for ending their bickering, Kissatsu-san.”

“Of course, waka-sama.” Kissatsu-san cleared his throat. “If I may be so frank, I understand that Tyger Claws were not kind toward you. Rest assured, I will have those punished, if you wish, I will have her apologize to you personally.”

Choice 1
>“That won’t be necessary.”
>“Yes, please make the arrangements.”

The attempts to win your favor were quickly stopped once you and Kissatsu discussed smaller topics of Night City as he grew up in a similar place in Japan and was an assassin in Night City for a short while. As you expected the man was a Tyger Claw enforcer then turned assassin, now a representative of a different training of Arasaka bodyguards. What kind of training, he didn’t really say, and neither you want to ask for now. It was then your grandfather came back from his business. You, Kissatsu-san, and your grandfather held a conversation about Night City.

“Pardon my intrusion, but is Night City worth it?”

“Well-”

“Hold on now Kazuma-kun.” Your grandfather gestured toward you. “My grandson would have more say in this. It has been years since you were in Night City has it not?”

“It has, Arasaka-sama. I am not keen on the current political climate in Night City.”

Shit.

>“Night City is not worth the consideration, it’s full of filth with little wealth that is more trouble than its worth. It’s a cesspool, a place of death. It is better to focus on other places. But… if it were for profit, a heavy presence of armed forces is required to keep the gangs in line. We’d be doing a favor to Night City more than anything, it’s better to burn it clean...”
>“If Night City is under control, there can be a great potential. There are plenty of skilled individuals to be taken from. Not to mention the commercial value Night City has if the city is deemed safe to travel there will be a good opportunity. It’s a city that can be salvaged.”
>“There is a reason why Night City is called such, it’s a city that never sleeps. Underneath all that blood, it’s a city that can be greatly used if polished well. There are many artists and hidden gems that will be of great use to you.”
>“It will be worth it if the violent gangs are taken care of, but in my perspective, it is not worth the trouble if there will be one. I remember my time as a child still, it’s a city of despair and opportunity...”

Sorry for the short update guys

>>5059849
>“That won’t be necessary.”
>“There is a reason why Night City is called such, it’s a city that never sleeps. Underneath all that blood, it’s a city that can be greatly used if polished well. There are many artists and hidden gems that will be of great use to you.”

>>5059849
oh yeah and
>write in

>>5059849
>“That won’t be necessary.”
>“If Night City is under control, there can be a great potential. There are plenty of skilled individuals to be taken from. Not to mention the commercial value Night City has if the city is deemed safe to travel there will be a good opportunity. It’s a city that can be salvaged.”

PROFIT!

>>5059849
>“That won’t be necessary.”
>“It will be worth it if the violent gangs are taken care of, but in my perspective, it is not worth the trouble if there will be one. I remember my time as a child still, it’s a city of despair and opportunity...”

>>5059998
+1, remember how cool River and the Mox were when they saved us off the streets. Imagine if we could do that for other people that were shit outta luck like we were. Just rescue those that are good enough and be the based corpo heir

>>5059849
>“If Night City is under control, there can be a great potential. There are plenty of skilled individuals to be taken from. Not to mention the commercial value Night City has if the city is deemed safe to travel there will be a good opportunity. It’s a city that can be salvaged.”

You hated Night City, hated it. It was a city of greed and death, where you trusted no one but yourself. A place where mercy was a foreign idea, and kindness was only brought by death. You truly hated it, but… you knew that wasn’t what Night City was completely defined by. You let out a long exhale, then take your eyes toward your new “family”. You felt closer to a hobo in the streets or some drug running mule that had no choice but to work. Random neighbors or that one weird guy in Night City that’ll say hi then spout out about some crazy world ending crap. Everyone that had the will to live flourished, or at least survived with incredible wit or luck.

“If.” You say firmly, the word was stuck in your throat, but you continue. “If, Night City can be brought under control, and I mean it by all the gangs and the corruption, there is potential. I’ve seen incredible acts from people who wanted to survive, and even greater feats from those who wanted to flourish. There are talents there, if we can help them grow we will no doubt have great assets.

Rivers wouldn’t want to work with Arasaka, neither would Judy or any of the girls in the Mox. Mateo? Not even. But people like them existed, underneath all that grimes in Night City.

“If the city can be controlled.” One of the leaders said. “It is not so simple, waka-sama.”

“I know it isn’t. I know that there are gangs backed by others and we will be declaring a war against all of them. It’s a city of great value and opportunity.”

“Is that so?” Yorinobu said. “Oh hoh… you’re very confident about this, my grandson.”

“I am.”

“Interesting. Well, let us finish our meal.”

The meal ended like that. No more questions and there were only small talks of family business that each dealt with. Nothing about your mother, as if it was taboo to talk about it in front of your grandfather. When the meal ended you let out a mental sigh, this was more trouble than it was worth. After you finished seeing off the leaders (in which they were not afraid to brown their noses) you wanted to drink, badly.

“Ah, Reiichi. Good work for today.”

Thank you, grandfather.”

“There is a small gathering with the younger children in the west courtyard, join them, it will be good to network with them. That, and I’m sure you will have more in common with them. I’ll have escorts come with you. It’s less formal so be at ease.”

“Of course. I will make my way there.”

You? With some corpo kids? Really? He had to be fucking joking. You make your way to the west courtyard, where you see other people at your age… great, one of them being Nicole. After the announcement of your presence by your escorts, you were now in a small tea party gathering.

When was this going to be over and done with?

End of thread 2

Final Family Gauge: They see you as someone who leans toward logic, cold, and pragmatism. While you are cordial, you are not afraid to be harsh if need be. From now on, while they will be cordial they will test your limits in social situations from now on. The final gauge can be changed when you interact with the older members.

Alright that's the end of this thread, please tell me what you thought about it. Like last thread please don't be afraid of telling me how it was. That's the only way I can learn and make it fun for you guys. Happy thanks giving anons.

>>5063769
Thanks for running and Happy Thanksgiving!

I'll admit this isn't how I expected this quest to go--expected more shadowrunning and cyberpunking than court intrigue, but maybe that'll change in the next thread. Interesting perspective on Cyberpunk playing as someone in the Arasaka senpai!

That said, I would like to get back to the streets and actual missions of some sort... I get that we're meeting the family and getting a feel for things, but I'm worried that things are starting to drag a bit. Not to mention that being Arasaka effectively gives N pretty much whatever the hell he wants in the all-foreseeable future. Weapons? Men? Augments? Pretty sure we can get all that for free now--survival doesn't seem to be the name of the game anymore.

Seeing the Family Gauge at the end of the thread I'm going to assume this isn't the last bit of diplomacy we'll do--I'd personally like to see more Cyberpunk stuff since that's how the thread started, but I'm still interested in what you plan to do.

In any case, thanks for running and enjoy your holiday--is there an estimate for when the next thread is?

>>5063851
No worries and I understand. My plan was to make this whole court-intrigue happen. I haven't realize how much power N really has, but I promise you he won't be all OP. That was one thing I was counting on. Thank you for your input! Have a good holiday.

>>5063851
oh yeah the next thread, I don't know, It's finals weeks so it'll be busy, and I might scrap this qst because I dpn't like how it's going out

>>5067761
Bummer to hear, but life happens, right? Best wishes and thanks for running for as long as you did!

There also might be a good chance I might scrap this quest since it feels like I can't continue this after knowing the mistakes I made, I want to start a new with a definite ideas in mind

>>5073761
RIP, please keep us posted