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Previously... Miho Tsukada, the Heavenly Child and the chosen warrior of Sacrifice, reached into the depths of the abyss and made an unexpected ally – if the new god-queen of Dis is truly the ally she claimed to be. Knowledge begets knowledge, and a new secret of the Heavenly Child was soon revealed. Is death really inevitable for one chosen by the Great Virtue of Sacrifice? If so, will it be a good death or a vile one? In the darkness of a Sentinel shrine, new answers may reveal themselves!

>Twitter: https://twitter.com/MolochQM
>Previous thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Heavenly%20Child%20Quest

You have a little experience with AIs. Not as much as Maika, true – although you suspect that few people in Ark City have as much AI experience as she does – but you're no novice. You've spent enough time around them to look past their inhumanity, to shake off the instinctual revulsion of speaking with a soulless machine. In SAE's case, you've even started to see them as more than simple machines.

When you hear that grating, obviously synthesised tone, however, your experience suddenly deserts you. All the fear and uncertainty, the disgust and unease, comes rushing back in at the sound of that inhuman voice.

And yet, when it repeats that simple order, a command for you to approach, you are helpless to resist. Approaching the church altar, you brush back the curtains and...

Then you gasp, fighting back the urge to turn tail and flee from the church.
>>
>>1555168

It would be impossible to say exactly what it is about that bland metal cylinder that leaves you so shaken, but something about it just repulses you. The... object is a cylinder of dully gleaming steel, almost featureless save for a set of lenses at the top, some ports – you couldn't even begin to guess their function – and a small screen set in the middle. Garlands of dried, papery flowers have been draped across the cylinder, and incense sticks burn at its base.

As you study it, so too does the cylinder study you in response. A light shines out from one of those lenses, playing across your head. Letters flicker across the screen, too fast for you to make anything out, and then the machine speaks.

[Miho Tsukada,] the AI announces, [Person of interest.]

“I'm getting pretty sick of hearing that,” you manage to mutter, “I'm starting to think that I'd rather be a normal, boring human being.”

[Do you strive against your destiny, then?] the AI asks in reply, [Do you struggle, even knowing that it is futile?]

“That's...” you begin, cutting your answer short and glaring at the cylinder, “What kind of AI are you, to ask a question like that? I thought your kind worked with probabilities and statistics, not destiny.”

[I am the Oracle, the intermediary between man and God,] the AI answers you, [All life is a tapestry, and all men have their place within it. To struggle against the flow of destiny is a sin. To stay within one's place is a virtue.] The screen flickers for a moment, the image of a single silver eye forming and fixing you with its cold glare. [So the gods have decreed,] the Oracle adds, [Is that not your faith, Miho Tsukada?]

“I don't know if it's MY faith any more,” you find yourself admitting.

[You are lost,] the Oracle states, [Do you wish for guidance?]

“Guidance?” you repeat, “Why would you help me?”

[Because Monad is a caring god. Compassion, Logic, Creativity, Ambition... these are Monad's four faces,] the Oracle's single eye flickers a little, the image distorting before returning to a cohesive whole, [You would be welcomed with open arms, Miho Tsukada. You could be given everything that you could ever desire. You could even worship your own gods in whichever manner you choose. All that we ask is your loyal service.]

“Right,” you mutter, “My unquestioning obedience. Of course.”

[And what do your own gods demand?] the AI counters, [Are they kinder masters?] When you cannot answer that, lapsing into silence instead, the Oracle continues to make its point. [We would not demand an answer immediately,] it informs you, [Although you have already been given a great deal of leniency. You may return here at any time. I will order the guards to allow you inside. Consider our offer.]

>What would I need to do, if I joined you?
>Is Monad really a god, or is it just another AI?
>Who was that young woman outside, with Karl?
>I have a question for you... (Write in)
>Other
>>
>>1555170
>>Who was that young woman outside, with Karl?
>Is Monad really a god, or is it just another AI?
>>
>>1555170
>>Is Monad really a god, or is it just another AI?
>>Who was that young woman outside, with Karl?
>>I have a question for you... (Write in)
What are the Sentinels? What is their goal?

How much do you know about the Intruders?
>>
>>1555170
>>Is Monad really a god, or is it just another AI?
>>Who was that young woman outside, with Karl?
Man, I haven't made it to a Moloch thread live in a while. Glad to have made it.
>>
“Is Monad really a god?” you find yourself asking, the question coming unbidden to your lips, “Or is it just another AI?”

The Oracle takes a long moment to answer that question. [You speak as though there was a difference,] it finally answers, [Men place their faith in artificial intelligences, trusting machines that they do not understand with vast quantities of vital information. Artificial intelligences hold sway over significant portions of your life – the quality of the air you breathe, the power that allows your cities to function, even the food that you consume. In these terms alone, artificial intelligences are far more worthy of the title of “gods” than mankind's own native gods.]

“Yeah, but that's...” you protest, “That's just a load of smart talk, I'm talking hard facts here. Is Monad really any different to any other AI?”

[There is nothing that I could say that would convince you. Such is the case in matters of faith,] the Oracle decides coldly, [Monad has found a voice through the artificial intelligences created in Ark City, yet Monad was not created by men. It arose from the sea of information that mankind created, yet it possessed information unknown to mankind. In this sense, something was produced from nothing – proof of a divine act, or so many would say.]

Wincing, you touch a hand to your temple as you feel the first pangs of a headache settling in. Sitting down in one of the pews, you turn to more practical matters. “Who was that young woman out there?” you ask, “The one with Karl?”

[Crow. Sentinel asset,] the AI explains, the image of an eye replaced by scrolling text and then an image of the woman's face. Dark hair, a face set in a bitter smirk, hard eyes... not ugly, but not a particularly lovely face either. [Most of her details have been expunged,] the Oracle continues, [However, confirmed kills are as follows – eighteen non-material entities, five material entities. Unconfirmed kills are as follows – one material entity.]

“Material entities,” you repeat, “You mean, like, people?”

[People,] the Oracle responds, [That is correct.]

“Shit...” you breathe, “She's killed six people in, what, service to the Sentinels?”

[Four,] the AI corrects you, [One Sentinel operative was killed in the process of capturing her, a second died during an operation – circumstances are unknown, although murder is suspected.]

“That's... yeah, okay,” groaning, you slump back in the pew, “That's really great, she sounds like a really great person.” Still frowning, you pull out your phone and check that it over. No warnings from Emi... yet.

[She is an asset,] the Oracle explains, her words implying a shrug, [A weapon.]

[1/2]
>>
>>1555227

You can't help but frown at that, recalling Maika's words – she called herself a weapon as well, albeit one of a more precise nature. Putting the more unwholesome parts of Crow's record aside, you consider what the Oracle said. Eighteen confirmed “non-material entity” kills... “You must have known about the Intruders for a while, right?” you ask, “What do you even know about them?”

[Non-material entities, commonly known as “Intruders”. Source unknown. Numbers unknown, although estimated as theoretically limitless. Full extent of their powers unknown,] the AI recites in quick order, before shifting to a slightly more natural voice, [Intruders are considered to be incomplete entities, driven by two main desires – to destroy, mindlessly lashing out at mankind, and to feed. By enveloping and absorbing human subjects, they seek completeness.]

“That fits with that I know,” you murmur, “...I guess. Can they become complete?”

[No,] the AI answers bluntly, [In a limited timescale, Intruders who have absorbed a human subject show increased cognition, even exhibiting behaviour indicating some degree of absorbed memory. An Intruder who has fed will often pursue friends and relatives of their victim, for example. However, an Intruder will always revert to its original, incomplete state.]

An Intruder who has fed on a human will seek those close to that human. Does that mean, then, that Chiaki is being hunted by an Intruder? Her sister was taken, after all... Shaking your head hastily, you push that question aside for now. You might not have long here, best to put that time to good use.

“What are the Sentinels, really?” you press, “What are their goals?”

[The Sentinels you know are the latest incarnation of an ancient society devoted to protecting mankind. Today, the Sentinels continue that legacy, defending mankind from threats from within and without – up to and including mankind itself,] the Oracle obediently answers, [The Sentinels operate in relative secrecy, opting to use a more subtle hand in guiding mankind's course. Their primary goals are safety and prosperity for mankind, according to the golden path that Monad has laid out before them.]

“That old story...” you mutter. It might as well be repeating back what Jun and Karl have told you, albeit in less grandiose terms. Other than the stuff about Monad and its “golden path”, you didn't learn-

In your pocket, your phone purrs. Swiping it out, you press it to your ear and listen as Emi's sharp, fearful voice hits you.

[2/3]
>>
>>1555284

“You've got company,” Emi hisses, “Your Nazi buddy is coming back, and he looks pretty pissed off. He's heading straight for the front door now, you don't have long!”

“Damn it,” you snap, glancing across to the AI, “Is there another way out of here?”

[There is a back exit,] the Oracle confirms, [However, motion detector readings indicate that there may be individuals waiting outside. Results inconsistent – immediate maintenance and software updates suggested. Optimal performance is-”

“Emi, is he alone?” you ask quickly, “Was that woman with him?”

“Yeah, she was-” Emi pauses, “Shit, she's gone! She was right there a moment ago, right fucking there! I don't know how she could vanished like that. I don't... shit, you gotta do something!”

That's right. You've got to do something, and quick. The church itself is pretty dark and gloomy, with a lot of places to hide... maybe.

>Risk the back exit
>Try hiding in the church
>Show yourself and confront Karl
>Just flee out the front door
>Other
>>
>>1555284
>Their primary goals are safety and prosperity for mankind, according to the golden path that Monad has laid out before them.

But isn't Monad a relatively new being since it came from information? And the Sentinels or the organization that preceded them is old. So either they converted or something doesn't add up.
>>
>>1555293
>Risk the back exit
If we aren't immediately seen as soon as we exit, summon our costume and jump to the rooftops so we can get a clean getaway.
>>
>>1555293
>Risk the back exit
>>
>>1555293
>Risk the back exit
>>
>>1555293
>Show yourself and confront Karl
BALLS TO THE WALLS
>>
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“Damn it, damn it, damn it...” you mutter, wasting a few valuable seconds as you look feverishly back and forth. As if sensing your dismay, the Oracle causes a dim light to flicker into life, illuminating a shadowy doorway. Taking that as a sign, you rush for the back door, barging through it and stumbling out into a narrow alleyway. Preparing yourself for the worst, you look back and forth.

The alleyway is empty... so why do you feel the hairs on the back of your neck rising up?

The sensation of being watched presses down heavily on you, paranoia flooding into you. Shaking off the worst of it, you transform and leap high into the air. Kicking from one wall to another, you scale up the buildings and pull yourself up to a neighbouring roof. Once you're up, you flatten yourself down and wait a moment.

When nothing shows itself, you play it safe and wait a few moments more. Eventually, impatience wins out over prudence, and you rise to your feet. Taking out your phone, you dial Emi's number.

“Guess you didn't get caught,” Emi replies, picking up on the first ring, “Your buddy is inside now. Got no idea what he's doing in there, but I reckon it ain't saying prayers. You okay, boss?”

“Yeah, I'm good... I think,” you reply, “Let's meet at...” Pausing, you stop yourself from saying anything to specific. “That bar we ditched,” you suggest after a moment's thought, “Okay?”

“Sure,” the young girl's voice turns glum, “Meet you there.”

-

For a short while after fleeing the church, that hunted feeling remains at the corner of your mind. Perhaps for no good reason, but just to be careful, you take a long and circuitous route on your way back to Hime. After a short while, and a lot of random twists and turns, you feel the uncanny sensation fade. Breathing a sigh of relief, you finish the rest of your journey quickly. Even so, Emi is tapping her foot and checking her phone when you arrive.

“Sorry for the wait,” you apologise, “I wanted to make sure that I wasn't being followed.”

“Eh, whatever. Ain't like I had anything better to do tonight,” Emi shrugs, “So... you gonna spill the beans or what? I'm pretty curious about that place, not gonna lie.”

“It's pretty weird in there,” you begin, “I'll... hey, listen, can you wait a little? I've been meaning to get everyone together and explain a few things, it'll be easier to tell everyone when they're together.”

“Man, you're really hyping this up, huh?” Emi grins, “Yeah, I get you. Gives you some time to put your thoughts in order, something like that. Don't leave me hanging for long though, yeah? Well, whatever – I figure it's about time that I turned in for the night. You better do the same, you look dog tired.”

You're about to reply to that, but then an enormous yawn cuts off your words. It's as good an answer as any.

[1/2]
>>
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>>1555353

After parting ways with Emi, you drag your weary bones back home. It's not a return that you're particularly looking forwards to making, especially considering how hastily you left, but you've got to show your face eventually.

The least you can do is make sure that it's an appropriately regretful face, taking a moment to composure yourself before entering. Yui is in her usual perch, watching the door like a hawk with a glass of red wine at the ready. Seeing her there, your expression grows brittle – she must have waited for Hikari like that once, except your sister never came back. Yui's expression, one of worry, is soon hidden behind a mask of irritation.

“Miho!” she scolds, “What were you thinking, running off like that? I was so-”

“It was an emergency,” you attempt to explain, “A friend called, she seriously needed help. She didn't have anyone else to turn to, and I was so worried about her, I just... I guess I freaked out a little. I'm sorry, it won't happen again!” Finishing your excuse – which isn't THAT far from the truth, really – with a vigorous bow, you risk glancing up. Yui sighs, and then a hint of a smile crosses her face.

“Just take a moment to think things through next time,” she concedes, “And tell your friends to have their emergencies at more sociable hours!”

“Yes mother, thank you mother,” you reply, adding another bow for good measure, “I'm going to bed now, I'm exceedingly tired.”

“And it's exceedingly late,” Yui threatens, “Don't think you're getting two days off school in a row...”

-

Lying in bed – you almost expected Kurosawa to be waiting for you, but he was nowhere to be found – you find yourself going over your conversation with the Oracle. No matter how much you think about it, you keep being drawn back to a contradiction – Monad, and its golden path. The Sentinels are old, or so they claim, but Monad is new. Either they've only recently thrown in their lot with Monad, or the Sentinels aren't what they claim to be.

Although really, the possibility that the Sentinels might be lying about something isn't exactly unlikely.

Flopping back in bed, you close your eyes and try to force yourself asleep. You've done enough thinking for one day.

-

When you spot Professor Carrington waiting at the school gates, clipboard in hand and looking faintly uneasy, you realise that this won't just be another school day. When she calls your name and waves you over, those fears are realised. Forcing a smile, you approach her and give a restrained bow of greeting.

“Oh, yes, oh...” Carrington returns the bow awkwardly, “Good morning Miho. I, um, we need to talk.”

“Yeah,” you sigh, “I figured.”

[2/3]
>>
>>1555418

“So you'll be excused from your first class, in order to attend the, um, special seminar. You know where the meeting room is, don't you?” Carrington explains again, “And don't worry, you're not in any kind of trouble, this is just a... well, I don't quite know what it is. I'm sure it's nothing to worry about!”

You're not so sure about that. Whenever your name shows up on a list, you start to get a sinking feeling in your gut. The fact that there were less than two dozen other names on the list only makes things worse. Still, there's no point in resisting. Leaving Professor Carrington to check off the last few names, you head into the school and head for the meeting room. A mass of chairs has been set out, with a cluster of students filling some of them. A low murmur of conversation stirs the air as you enter.

An older student ticks off your name as you arrive. Another list.

Fighting back a frown, you spot a familiar face. Ayane is sitting apart from the others, staring intently at her phone. It's only when you sit next to her that she looks up, her startled expression replaced by a broad smile.

“Damn, it's good to see you in one piece,” she greets you, giving you an awkward, seated hug, “Wasn't sure if you'd be in school so soon after... everything that happened. No rest for the wicked, huh?”

“Hey,” you argue, “Enough with this “wicked” stuff, okay?”

“Just messing with you,” Ayane shrugs, tucking her phone away in her pocket, “So here we are.”

>Yeah. You got any idea what this is about?
>Those people we rescued, were they okay?
>What got into you, back there with the portal? It's not like you to run off ahead...
>I had something I wanted to talk to you about... (Write in)
>Other
>>
>>1555440
>Yeah. You got any idea what this is about?
>Those people we rescued, were they okay?
>What got into you, back there with the portal? It's not like you to run off ahead...
>>
>>1555440
>Those people we rescued, were they okay?
>What got into you, back there with the portal? It's not like you to run off ahead...
"Time was of the essence for sure, but it was surprising."

>You got any idea what this is about?
>>
>>1555440
>Yeah. You got any idea what this is about?
>Those people we rescued, were they okay?
>What got into you, back there with the portal? It's not like you to run off ahead...
>>
>>1555440
>Yeah. You got any idea what this is about?
>Those people we rescued, were they okay?
>there's some real crazy stuff we have to talk about later...
>>
>>1555440
>>Yeah. You got any idea what this is about?
>>Those people we rescued, were they okay?
>>
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“Yeah, here we are,” you agree, “You got any idea what this is all about?”

“Hmm,” Ayane purses her lips in thought, “You saw that guy on the door, right? With the yellow armband?”

Glancing around, you double check. Although only a year older than you at most, the boy's hair is already starting to grey. Forcing yourself to look past that, you realise that he does, in fact, have a yellow armband. “Okay,” you whisper to Ayane, “So what's that all about?”

“Disciplinary committee,” Ayane replies with a wink, “I don't know why I'm here, but I reckon they're rounding up delinquents like you. Chances are, I just got caught in the crossfire.”

“Do we have a disciplinary committee?” you ask, before shrugging, “I mean, I guess we do. This is the first I'm hearing of it, though.”

“Yeah,” offering you a look of wide-eyed sincerity, Ayane nods, “You're pretty good at not getting caught. Miho Tsukada, master criminal...”

“Jeez,” you groan, “My parents are going to freak out if the school starts making accusations, I don't need this sort of crap...”

“Can't do the time, don't do the crime,” Ayane chuckles. Her laughter dies slowly, and a more serious look passes across her face. “I'm serious though, it's good to have you back,” she adds, “I'd miss talking like this. You're really okay, right?”

“I'm really okay,” you assure her, “What about those people we rescued, were they okay?”

“Yeah, they got out okay. Pretty much catatonic, though, which kinda made things easier in a bunch of ways,” Ayane shrugs, “Kurosawa assured me that they'd be okay. They won't remember a thing, probably make up some fantasy to explain it all away. Folks are good at that, y'know? They might not be able to give much detail, but... broad strokes. It's better than nothing, and it should keep them from freaking out too much. They're probably happier this way.”

Considering your own experiences with losing memories, you can't quite bring yourself to agree with that. Swallowing back a bitter comment, you lean a little closer and lower your voice. “What got into you, back there with the portal?” you ask her quietly, “Time was of the essence, no denying it, but it surprised me. It's not like you to rush on ahead like that...”

“Well, it's like you said. Time was of the essence. Those people were in serious danger, and...” Ayane pauses, her face falling, “And hell, it wasn't about them. Not really. I guess I was just trying to... prove myself. I'm not gonna lie, Miho, it feels like I've been dropping the ball a lot lately. It's starting to seem like I'm no good at this stuff. I just wanted to...”

“What?” you murmur.

“I wanted to be a hero,” Ayane confesses, “Just once, y'know?”

[1/2]
>>
>>1555512

“Ugh, that sounds so arrogant!” she groans, burying her face in her hands, “God, I must sound like such a bitch right now...”

“Hey, c'mon,” you urge, touching her shoulder, “You remember that awful... wolf spider thing? If you hadn't showed up when you did, I could have died – as far as I'm concerned, you've got nothing to prove.” Pausing a moment, you wait for Ayane to face you again, a slow realisation dawning in her eyes. “So let's not dwell on that stuff now, okay?” you press, “We've got a lot of strange stuff to talk about later, so I'll need you fresh and ready.”

“Right!” Ayane nods, “You can count on me! We meeting after school, or what?”

“Probably, yeah. Need to arrange something with Emi and Maika, but I don't think that's likely to be a problem,” fighting back a yawn, you glance around the room, “God, but I wish we could get this over with...”

“Ah, it's better than sitting in class. At least we can talk,” shrugging, Ayane takes out her phone again, “Say, Miho, you never did give me that phone number...”

“What number?” you ask, before answering your own question, “Oh yeah, that Isamu guy. You still want it? I, uh, I didn't think he was your type.”

“Hey, can't hurt to try something new, right?” Ayane leans a little closer, “So... you gonna give me that number?”

“I don't have it on me right now!” you protest, leaning away, “Jeez, c'mon...”

“Oh right, sure,” sighing, Ayane shakes her head a little, “But you've got it written down somewhere, right?”

You think of the business card Isamu gave you. The last time you saw it, you had left it on your desk back home. Frankly, you're not even sure why you kept it. You never got around to throwing it away, that's all it is.

Ayane, waiting expectantly, taps her phone lightly against one leg.

>I'll send you the number when I get home, okay?
>I don't think it's a good idea. You should stay away from him
>I don't have the number. I threw the card away (lie)
>Other
>>
>>1555529
>I'll send you the number when I get home, okay?
>>
>>1555529
>>I don't think it's a good idea. You should stay away from him
>>I'll send you the number if you really insist though
Feels a bit sketchy, don't know if our team mate should be with someone from a side that might be looking into us or something.
>>
>>1555529
>I'll send you the number when I get home, okay?
"But I want you to promise me that you will be careful around him and watch what you say. It's becoming increasingly likely that these corporations are involved in one way or another with all the craziness happening around us and Isamu works for them. Hell, I don't know if he gave me his number because he actually thought I was cute or because I was a 'Person of Interest' dubbed by EVE and my story didn't line up with everyone's"
>>
>>1555529
>>I'll send you the number when I get home, okay?
>>
>>1555529
>>I don't think it's a good idea. You should stay away from him
>>
“Listen, I'm not sure if this is a good idea,” you begin slowly, “He's... I'm not totally sure about that guy. How serious are you about this?”

“What do you mean, serious?” Ayane asks, frowning, “I mean, I'm not in love with the guy, I'm just looking for a bit of fun. He seemed nice, like we could get on well, but I'm not expecting it to be serious serious.”

“It's not that,” you argue, “It's... something else. I'll give you his number if you really insist, and if you promise me one thing.”

“I'll be careful, always use protection,” she assures you, “I promise.”

“Ayane!” you scold her, “Take this seriously, won't you? I want you to promise me that you'll be careful with him, careful about what you do and careful about what you say. It's looking likely that these guys, these corporations, are all involved in this “stuff” that's going on with us. When Isamu gave me his number, I don't know what his motives were – maybe he was hoping to get some information out of me, since I'm one of EVE's “people of interest”. So, can you promise me that you'll be careful?”

Ayane is silent for a long moment. “I promise,” she decides at last, “I'm taking this seriously, Miho, but... I like having company, y'know? But... I promise that I'll only ever tell him boring things about my life. Want to shake on it?”

“No, this is fine,” you reply, “I'll send you the number when I get home. I've got it written down there. Just... don't make me regret this.”

“Miho!” Ayane protests, “When do I EVER make bad decisions with men?”

It's probably best that you don't get the chance to answer that.

-

The sound of the door causes you to start upright, ending the conversation and glancing around to see the new arrivals. One last group of students – with Maika among their number – is herded in, closely followed by a young woman. Dressed like an office lady, with her hair tied up in a prissy bun and a pair of neat spectacles perched upon her nose, she looks altogether unremarkable.

Then she opens her mouth, and a low English accent shocks you back to your senses.

“Hello everyone, I'm sorry for this break in your schedule,” the woman announces, tapping a screen at the front of the room and rousing it into life. A second tap causes a name to appear. “My name is Simone,” she continues, “And I'm here, speaking to you today, on behalf of the Public Morals Committee. Now, I want you all to know that you're not in any trouble, and-”

“Public Morals Committee, huh?” Ayane calls out, sticking her hand up to get the woman's attention, “How come I've never heard of you guys?”

“Because we're a fairly small government organisation, and we're tragically underfunded,” Simone fakes a laugh, “But can we keep the questions until the end?”

“Sure,” Ayane agrees, shooting you a brief look – a look that says “Danger”.

[1/2]
>>
>>1555529
>>I'll send you the number when I get home, okay?
>>
>>1555596
Danger is bad, having a lie detector is really handy.
>>
>>1555596

“So, I'll be blunt about this. The reason you're all here today is because you've all been recorded as spending significant amounts of time in the deregulated economic zone,” Simone begins, pausing a moment as her words are met with bemused silence, “Colloquially known as the vice district, I should say.”

When she says that, the room livens up with fresh murmurs. Boys shoot each other guilty or accusing looks, while girls blush and flinch. Maika, sitting in the front row, remains as still as a statue. Beside you, Ayane snorts out a laugh. “Man, they brought us here for THIS crap?” she mutters, “She could have picked a better excuse...”

“This isn't some excuse to harass you or make your lives more difficult,” Simone continues, her gaze passing over you and Ayane, “This is an important matter, and it can have a lasting influence on your life outside of school. I'm sure you're all thinking about your future, and the job prospects waiting for you, so you should all take my advice to heart. Now, in this lecture, we're going to discuss several issues. To start with – what ARE public morals?”

You've dozed through lectures like this before, but never one where the lecturer is a trained assassin. Softening her expression and putting on a few props might help, but Crow can't hide what she really is.

-

Apparently, Crow must have bored her victims to death. Her lecture is crushingly dull, ponderously threatening you with the prospect of a bleak future while reminding you all of more “virtuous” ways of passing the time – inevitably studying, self improvement or making money. Perhaps the only interesting part is watching her hands. One of them is lively, gesturing and fidgeting, while the other is as dead and rigid as a prosthetic. Even that paltry amusement is short lived, and the lecture seems to drag on for several hours.

“Well then, we're all done!” she finishes, clapping her mismatched hands together, “Are there any questions?”

“I got one,” a boy shouts out, “What's England like this time of year?”

A murmur of laughter passes around the room, and Simone's smile grows brittle. “It's much like any time of year,” she explains, “It's cold, people don't have enough to eat, and the government is harsh. So, you should all be very grateful that you live here, with so much available to you now and in the future. You wouldn't want to do anything that jeopardises that future, now would you?”

A murmur of assent runs through the room. Ayane glances across to you, rolling her eyes. Covering up a laugh at her expression, you glance back to the front of the room.

Simone – Crow – is standing there, staring dead at you.

[2/3]
>>
>>1555646
This is not good.
>>
>>1555660
I almost want to caw like a crow at her to be a cheeky fuck but we probably shouldn't.
>>
>>1555646

For what seems like a long moment, you lock eyes with the assassin. Even without eyeshadow smeared across her face, Crow's eyes seem very dark indeed. Looking at her, you feel that same rush of paranoid fear that you felt when fleeing the church. One corner of her mouth twitches up in the beginnings of a cruel smile, and then-

And then she glances down at her notes. “You're all dismissed,” she tells the assembled students, “Except... Miho Tsukada and Maika Kanzaki, could you remain behind? There was another matter I wanted to discuss with the pair of you.”

While the predictable chorus of hoots and jeers rises up, you look around to Ayane. “Don't trust her,” Ayane mouths, “She's not what she says she is.”

-

“So!” Simone announces, when it's just the three of you left, “You two have quite a few visits to the vice district. An abnormally high number, in fact... just what are you doing in there?”

“I uh, I like some of the cafes there,” you reply, stumbling as the woman turns her dark eyes on you, “They're, uh, different.”

“There is a certain shop that sells computer supplies,” Maika answers with an indifferent shrug. She doesn't know, you realise, she isn't taking this seriously.

“I see, I see,” Simone nods slowly, then takes off her glasses and casually tosses them aside. Grinning, she reveals pointed teeth. “Let's cut the crap,” she continues, her voice rougher now, “I know exactly what the two of you are. You're still taking orders from a cat, right?”

Maika freezes, her face going blank. This took her entirely by surprise, and now she's floundering. It's rare to see her like this, left with nothing to say, and so you step in to fill the void.

>Is that some weird English slang? I don't know what you're talking about
>What about you, still taking orders from some computer?
>Crow, isn't it? I've seen your profile. Did Karl put you up to this?
>Other
>>
>>1555678
>Crow, isn't it? I've seen your profile. Did Karl put you up to this?
"This seems like a roundabout way to get in contact. You could just, you know, call me instead of putting on this circus act."
>>
>>1555678
>And you're still taking orders from an asshole, right? How's life being an asset?
>>
>>1555678
>And you're taking orders from an AI with pretensions of being a God, right?
>>
>>1555678
>Crow, isn't it? I've seen your profile. Did Karl put you up to this?
>>
>>1555678
>>Crow, isn't it? I've seen your profile. Did Karl put you up to this, or are you ALL this antsy for a fight?
>>
>>1555678
>>Is that some weird English slang? I don't know what you're talking about
>>
“Crow, isn't it? I've seen your profile, you know – they have you listed as an “asset”. What that like, by the way?” you reply, stepping forward and confronting her, “Karl put you up to his, didn't he? You take orders from an asshole like him, or do you get them straight from the top? An AI with pretensions of being a god... that's a hell of a boss. No wonder you're all so antsy for a fight!”

“Miho...” Maika begins, her face growing pale as Crow laughs aloud.

“So you're not insulting my intelligence by playing dumb,” she announces, grinning broadly, “That is SO much of a relief. I thought you might, you know. People often try that kind of crap when I show up.”

“Yeah? I can't think why,” you add, doubling down on your brash swagger, “This seems like a pretty roundabout way of getting in contact in me. You could have called – I'm pretty sure you people have my number. Or maybe you like this kind of circus act?”

“I wanted to see you, all dressed up in your pretty little uniform,” Crow sneers, slipping one hand – her restless, lively hand – into a pocket, “You're less likely to cause trouble this way. You wouldn't want to get it messed up, would you?”

“Are you threatening-” you begin, your words cut short as Crow lashes out. Her hand sweeps out from her pocket before snapping back down, hurling something at the ground between you. A cold wave of shock runs through you as you look down, your eyes drawn to the knife stuck in the floor between your feet.

“Almost had you,” the assassin teases, a new knife already appearing in her hand, “And goddamn, I was tempted. Back where I grew up, talking shit like that would earn a proper bloody beating. You're lucky, pet, that I'm being kept on a short leash.”

“So you ARE taking orders,” you deduce, swallowing a wave of fear, “From Karl?”

“That bastard? He doesn't get to order ME around,” genuine revulsion swirls to the surface of Crow's eyes, “Maybe he thinks he can, but “Karl Dietrich Kaplan” thinks a lot of things.” She says the man's name with contempt, anger, but swiftly moves on. “Me, I get my orders straight from the top,” she continues, “And those orders, they were to give you a message – your kind is tolerated, but if you ever become a threat...”

“A threat to what?” you shoot back, “Mankind, or your plans for... world domination, or whatever you want?”

“They weren't that specific,” Crow leans closer, pressing the flat of her blade against your cheek, “Assets like me, we just get told what we need to know. You're either WITH us, or you're staying the hell away from us. Anything else, we might have a problem.”

“Funny,” you mutter, fighting against the urge to flinch away from the knife, “It's starting to seem like we already have a problem.”

[1/2]
>>
>>1555770


“Yeah?” abruptly, Crow pulls her knife away, “Pet, you don't know SHIT about having problems. Me? I'm starting to like you – you've got more stones than I'd been expecting. No wonder Karl spends so long thinking about you, I bet you'd be real cute when you break down. Either way though, it ain't down to me or Karl – if the folks at the top think you're a threat, they're gonna have to do something about you. That happens, we're really gonna have a problem.”

“I'll take that under consideration,” you reply, taking a careful step backwards, “And if we don't have a problem?”

“Then maybe we'll get to work together some time,” Crow shrugs, “Maybe. Whatever, we're done here – just remember something. You kids, I can FIND you. Doesn't matter where you go or where you hide, I can track you down, and you'll never see me coming.”

Laughing curtly, she flicks her hand and causes the knife to vanish. Putting her glasses on once again and smoothing out her clothes, she is Simone once more – prim, proper, and utterly mundane. “Now you run along to class!” she scolds, “You don't want to be late, do you? Oh, and do stay away from the vice district, it's no place for nice kids like you!”

Still chuckling, she pushes past you and strolls out into the corridor. Shaking off your confusion, you rush after her and look down both branches of the corridor. She's just... gone.

-

“I'm sorry, Miho, I was...” Maika manages, “That was not something I had predicted. I presume she's a Sentinel agent of some kind?”

“A Sentinel assassin, more like,” you correct her, shivering a little, “Jeez, I never thought she'd show up here, of all places. They're really pushing us hard, aren't they?”

“It's just good business. You either buy out your rivals or you crush them,” the heiress offers, “Either way, you do whatever it takes to get a monopoly and seize power. Father is quite clear about that. These Sentinels seem to operate on similar principles. It may be hypocritical for me to say this, but I find it all rather unwholesome. More and more, I'm starting to see them as just as much of an enemy as the Intruders.”

“Maybe,” you mutter.

>Can we all meet up at your tonight? There are some things we all need to discuss in private
>Did you see her hands? One of them barely moved
>Hey, have you ever heard of an AI finding religion?
>Class can wait, there's something I want to talk to you about... (Write in)
>Other
>>
>>1555826
>Can we all meet up at your tonight? There are some things we all need to discuss in private
>Did you see her hands? One of them barely moved
>>
>>1555826
>Can we all meet up at your tonight? There are some things we all need to discuss in private
>Did you see her hands? One of them barely moved
Question is, is that a weakpoint or is that prosthetic going to turn into a chain gun.?

>Hey, have you ever heard of an AI finding religion?
>>
>>1555826
Backing
>>1555831
>>
>>1555826
>You do whatever it takes to get a monopoly and seize power, huh? I'm thinking we need to start applying that ourselves.
>>
>>1555826

>Can we all meet up at your tonight? There are some things we all need to discuss in private
>Did you see her hands? One of them barely moved
>>
>>1555826
I would like to note that Monad's goals seem to diverge from those of Crow's superiors. Monad tried to recruit us, while Crow's actions are absolutely counterproductive to that.
>>
“Did you see her hands?” you ask after you think over your encounter with Crow, “They were totally mismatched. I mean, one of them barely moved.”

“I did notice that, yes,” Maika nods, “I was a little closer to her during the lecture, so I was able to get a better look. The rigidity was a key sign, but there was also a slight difference in skin colour. Her fingers, and a good amount of her palm, were all a slightly different colour to the rest of her hand. It was probably a graft, grown in a tank and surgically attached later. As for the rough quality of it...” Pausing here, she shrugs. “Well, inferior medical technology,” the heiress offers, “What else would you expect? They might as well be in the Dark Ages, back in Europe.”

“So what, she got maimed at some point?” you ask, thinking aloud to yourself, “When she was captured, maybe?”

“Captured?” Maika asks, tilting her head to the side, “You mentioned seeing her profile, is that-”

“Oh damn, yeah,” shaking off your thoughts, “I'll fill you in later. But, I mean, it's biological, right? We don't need to worry about it turning into a chainsaw or anything, right?”

“There are limits, and that sort of thing would be beyond ever our-” Maika pauses, “You're not being entirely sincere, are you?”

“Yeah, I guess you'd call it a joke,” you sigh, “I'll take anything I can get right now, if it lifts my spirits a little.”

“You know...” Maika suggests in a careful tone, “If she was maimed by the Sentinels, she might have her own grudge against them. Perhaps I'm speaking out of turn, but it might be possible to sway her over to our side. I won't pretend to know what kind of hold the Sentinels might have over her, but... well, we have options, I should think.”

“Options, huh?” you murmur, “Well, whatever – we should probably get to class. Hey, can we all meet up at yours tonight? There are some things that we all need to discuss in private.”

“That should be possible,” nodding slowly, Maika touches a finger to her chin, “How private, though?”

“Absolutely privacy,” you tell her, “As private as you can get it.”

“Ah, I understand. Well, this gives me the chance to try something out. I hope this doesn't trouble you too much, but could you give me a few hours to prepare?” the heiress takes out her phone as she says this, tapping away at the screen, “Say... three hours after school? I need to assemble a few... well, no matter. Three hours, then please call me.”

“Works for me, I had a few errands to run anyway,” you nod, “So c'mon, let's go. We're late enough as it is.”

[1/2]
>>
>>1555882
I mean, she didn't roll out the red carpet and hand us an invitation on a silver platter but she did say we had somewhat of a choice.Join or bail all together.
>>
>>1555898
She actively destroyed any sympathy for the Sentinels we might have had.
>>
>>1555897
>What else would you expect? They might as well be in the Dark Ages, back in Europe
yuropoors BTFO
>>
>>1555897

As you're slowly walking back to class – you're late enough that taking the scenic route won't change much – you consider the differences between the Oracle and Crow. The Oracle seemed... almost kind, attempting to peacefully sway you over to its side. Crow, by contrast, seemed more intent on keeping you out of the way. Good cop and bad cop, or something else entirely? Another inconsistency to do with the Sentinels...

Thinking of the Oracle, a question occurs to you. “Hey Maika,” you begin, “Have you ever heard anything about an AI finding religion?”

“That's an interesting thing to ask about,” Maika thinks for a moment, “As you can understand, there is a distinct lack of research in this area. However, there have been a few experiments done. Consistently, the results have failed to replicate anything like faith in an AI construct. People have been able to convince an AI that a hypothetical god existed, but there was no faith or irrational belief involved. The AI either accepted the arguments and deduced that god existed, or they refused the argument and rejected the theory. Only humans, it seems, are capable of making the leap to true faith.”

“So if an AI DID believe in god,” you ask, “That would be a pretty big deal, huh?”

“It would be unprecedented, yes,” Maika agrees, “In fact, it suggests an entirely new paradigm of AI research.”

“Man...” you groan, “My life was simple once, y'know? Straightforward!”

“That sounds rather boring, if you ask me,” shrugging, the heiress pauses by a bank of vending machines, waving her palm across the scanner until it dispenses a can of coffee. “Father says that a boring life neuters us,” she continues, “The mundane dulls the mind, it leaves us floundering.”

“No offence Maika, but your father sounds like he says a lot of stuff,” you point out, “And not a lot of it is very nice. I mean, that stuff about crushing your rivals? Not very nice at all...” Shaking your head and accepting the second can that Maika orders, you think back over your encounter with Crow. “Then again, I'm starting to see his point,” you admit, “Maybe we should think about doing it ourselves.”

“Doing what?” Maika asks politely, “Taking on an ancient conspiracy, one with the backing of several AI units and a potentially unlimited supply of resources to draw upon?”

“Sure,” you reply with a shrug, “Why not?”

“Well,” the heiress pops open her can of coffee, “I suppose it wouldn't be boring.”

-

The rest of the school day passes without further incident, which comes as something of a relief. You've had quite enough incidents for one day. When your phone rings, a matter of minutes after you've left the school gates, you realise that the day isn't over quite yet.

[Good day Miss Tsukada,] SAE greets you, when you answer, [How are you feeling today?]

[2/3]
>>
>>1555928

“I'm... okay, I guess?” you reply, faintly disconcerted by the polite greeting, “Is this a social call?”

[Miss Kanzaki suggested that I try being more friendly with others,] SAE informs you, [Is it working?]

“Yeah, uh, I'm not gonna lie, it's a bit creepy,” you admit, “But maybe that's just me. Seriously though, are you calling me for a reason?”

[Yes. I apologise,] SAE pauses, [Two hours ago, I intercepted part of a communication. The source was unknown, but one of the voices was positively identified – to a probability index of ninety-eight percent – as belonging to Karl Dietrich Kaplan. I believe this may be of interest to you. Playing the recording now.]

“It's me,” Crow's voice begins, “I met your girls, and something occurred to me. What you need is leverage – try leaning on the father, a bit of pressure and she should-”

“Shut up, you fool,” Karl snaps back, “Don't call me on this number, it might not be secure. We'll discuss this in person.”

[That is all,] SAE's voice resumes, [I believed that this would be of interest to you. I have sent the same recording to Miss Kanzaki. She believes it to be significant.]

“Thanks SAE,” you sigh, “I'm not exactly happy to hear this, but... ugh.”

[Your reaction is in accordance with existing personality models,] the AI answers, [Miss Kanzaki stated that we will talk more later today. I look forwards to our next meeting.]

“Yeah,” you groan, “I'm sure that you'll have more good news then.” Ending the call, you slip your phone back into your pocket. At your side, your other hand is clenched into a tight fist.

They're bringing your father into this. They're making this personal.

>I'm going to pause here for tonight, and continue this tomorrow. If anyone has any questions or comments, I'll answer them the best I can
>Thanks to everyone who contributed today!
>>
>>1555968
This bitch. Thanks for running Moloch.

Quick question. Zakuro's coordinates. Can we take people with us when we travel there?
>>
>>1555968
Thanks for running!
How long until... well... I can't think of anything. The shit is thick on the fan as it is.
>>
>>1555968
Thanks for running Moloch. Time to toss a stone at Crow and see who else we can take down with her.
>>
>>1555968
Time to make that Crow eat...crow, fuck.
>>
>>1555977

We would be able to, yes. I'll include a little more explanation for returning to the Zakuro next session, because I forgot to mention a few details when we were last dealing with her. Nothing hugely important, but it's worth clearing up.
>>
>>1555968
Thanks for running, Moloch!
>>
>>1556039
So with Zakuro's spirit laid to rest, so to speak, would there be a new Hospiitalier in the offing?
>>
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>>1556039
>We would be able to, yes.
Now could we do that to the unwilling?
>>
>>1556051

Yes, that's right. Finding them is likely to be as inconvenient as ever, but at least there's someone to be found.

>>1556056

That would also be possible, yes. Much like the last Tyrant's portal, being in contact with someone when we enter would bring them in along with us.
>>
>>1556077
>That would also be possible, yes.
Cool. An option to keep in the holster if we need someone to take a trip.

We should also try to find leverage on Karl and Crow. Maybe EVE knows something.
>>
>>1556090
I only have two possible solutions: friendship and murder.
>>
>>1556140
Could lean on Jun. He seemed cordial, as cordial as these guys are anyways. Karl might be going behind his back on this.
>>
>>1556154
He might just be the good cop to Karl's bad.
>>
>>1556166
Could be. Regardless there might be merit in making it crystal clear that any 'leaning' on our father is going to make us enemies.
>>
>>1556181
I don't think they're afraid of making enemies of us.
>>
>>1556090
If we do send someone there to be trapped, we'd have to make sure they aren't strong enough to kill Zakuro right? Cause that'd fuck everything up.
>>
>>1556198
We'd also have to get Zakuro's approval about the idea too. Unlike us however, whoever fights Zakuro will have to fight a Tyrant AND all her minions. And us if we stick around.

>>1556186
They might want to avoid a thorn in their side. That's why having EVE and SAE on our side will be a big boon.
>>
>>1556205
They're purposefully antagonizing us already.
>>
>>1556271
Buying time. Open warfare wouldn't be good. There might be a chance we can turn some of these Sentinels but we need more information and more time.

Anyways I'm just tossing ideas out there.
>>
Anger gnaws at your gut as you walk back home, your hands clenching and unclenching as though you were throttling someone. The mood you're in, throttling someone almost seems like a nice idea. The thought that the Sentinels might be going behind your back, screwing around with your family and friends in order to get a little extra leverage over you... it's unforgivable.

If it's correct, you have to remind yourself, there might be a perfectly innocent explanation for it all. There might be... but you doubt it.

The apartment is empty when you return home, but that's fine with you. Once settled, the first thing you do is dig out Isamu's card for Ayane. Turning it over in your hands, you wonder if this is really the right thing to do. It's not too late to lie, you consider, and give Ayane an excuse. You lost the card, your mother threw it out, anything like that... although she'd be able to sniff out a lie as soon as it had left your lips. So much for that plan. Sighing wearily, you send her a message with the number and a stern reminder of her promise. She replies within a minute, exuberantly thanking you.

“Calm down, jeez,” you mutter to yourself, “Desperation is hardly attractive.”

Next, you send her and Emi the details of your meeting later. Again, the confirmations come in quickly enough, with no disagreements or complaints. Nodding with satisfaction, you set aside your phone and flop down on your bed. There's time enough for a nap, and you could definitely use one.

You don't normally remember your dreams, but this one is... strange.

-

You're sinking, slowly being drawn down into warm and sticky mud. With no light around you, space and direction seem to lose all meaning. All you can do is relax, letting yourself go with the flow. As you let yourself sink, something bubbles up to the front of your mind. It's a slippery thought, one that you can't exactly get a solid grasp on. It's familiar though, and the simple inhumanity of it makes you realise the truth – these are the [umbral coordinates] of Dis, Zakuro's new city.

“The abyss will always welcome you, Miho Tsukada,” Zakuro's echoing voice, more liquid than you remember, slurps through the mud that surrounds you, “Think of me with all your heart, and I will know of it. Think of me with all your heart, and I will bring you to my side. We can-”

-

You wake suddenly, woken by the slam of a door, to find yourself... not in bed. Standing upright, you grip the white porcelain sink and stare into the depths of the bathroom mirror. The silvered glass shimmers, while a few barely visible tentacles – almost completely transparent – lazily writhe around the border. The illusion, or whatever it was, is shattered as you jerk yourself away from the mirror.

“What the...” you whisper, looking back into the mirror, now perfectly normal.

[1/3]
>>
>>1558861

Washing your face in cold water, you piece things together. Zakuro was able to reach you somehow, teaching you how to return to her city. It's just like making a portal of your own, you reason, with the [umbral coordinates] providing a solid destination. It's a little worrying how easily you grasp this, as though the knowledge was enough to leave you tainted in some way. Then again, considering that you've already aided and protected what might well be a Tyrant... perhaps those fears are not entirely baseless.

And then your mother's voice stirs you from those bleak thoughts.

“Oh, you're home today,” Yui remarks, with a sharp note in her voice, “Sorry I wasn't here earlier, I had to do some extra shopping. Your father called, he said that he might be able to get some time off soon.”

“Yeah?” despite yourself, you brighten up at the mention of your father, “How come?”

“Well, I wouldn't get your hopes up,” Yui cautions, “He said that he's being tranferred to a new project. Once he's started up, it'll be all hands on deck, so... he's been given a few days to settle his affairs here. This new project is going to be a lot of pressure, he said.”

Pressure. The exact wording that Crow used. Hearing that brings your anger right back. You can practically imagine it now, Jun – or someone like him - offering to “pull a few strings” and have your father assigned to easier duties. If the Sentinels really are as influential as they claim, something like that would be easy for them. They could do much worse, if it suited them...

“Miho, is there something wrong?” Yui asks, “You looked faint for a moment, have you eaten anything?”

“Oh, sorry, I was just thinking,” shaking off the bilious haze of anger, you glance at the clock, “Uh, I made plans to go do a thing, and it's almost time. You don't need me to stay home for anything, do you?”

“No, you go ahead,” Yui shakes her head slowly, “But try not to fill your schedule up too much, okay? Your father will want to spend some time with you later, so keep that in mind. And just... try not to get caught up in a war this time. Please?”

“I'll see what I can do,” you promise, smiling wearily before slinking back to your room. Picking up your phone from where you left it, you feel a sudden change in the air. “Oh well,” you whisper, “We would have had to speak with each other eventually.”

“That's correct,” Kurosawa agrees from behind you, “Is everything safe here?”

“Safe?” you repeat, turning to give the cat a curious look, “What do you mean?”

“I thought I had sensed an Intruder here,” he replies, “A faint scent, but unmistakable. When I came to investigate, however...”

“You made a mistake,” you finish with a deliberately nonchalant shrug, “It happens.”

“So it would seem,” Kurosawa mutters, his voice sullen.

[2/3]
>>
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>>1558862

“Well, you're here now,” you sigh, sitting on your bed, “Let's get this over with.”

“I misled you,” Kurosawa admits, quite plainly, “I acknowledge that.”

“You...” you splutter, turning to glare at the cat, “It's getting seriously difficult to take your apologies seriously when you KEEP having to make them. You've not just “misled” me once or twice, you've... you've... Has ANY of it been true?” Remembering that Yui is outside, you manage to keep your voice to a low hiss... but only just. “All anybody wants is to manipulate me,” you add bitterly, “You, the Sentinels, even those bloody AIs, you're all treating me like a pawn in some grand came of chess!”

“Then what would you propose?” the cat asks mildly, “Reject everything? Turn your back on mankind, the gods, and even the soulless ones that your kind has created?”

“Don't tempt me,” you mutter. Thinking about it, it's not hard to sympathise with the old queen of Dis. She retreated into her own shell, seeking total isolation in a city under her absolute control... it has a certain appeal.

“Mankind would suffer without you. Your colleagues would suffer without you,” padding slightly closer, Kurosawa gives you one of his unreadable looks, “Knowledge is a great burden. Learning of what lies ahead – even the possibilities arranged before them – is often enough to push men into despair. I wished to spare you that. I believed it to be a kindness.”

“You just don't get people,” you sigh, “We're curious sorts, even when it means poking our noses into dangerous stuff. Especially when it means poking our noses into dangerous stuff!”

“So it would seem,” the cat sighs, “All that I ask is that you maintain your Barrier and continue to perform your duties. Things will be easier when the Temptress has been found and recruited.”

So he claims.

>Okay Kurosawa. Go away now
>Are you any closer to finding her yet?
>Is there some way you can tell me more about the future? About my destiny?
>There's something we need to talk about... (Write in)
>Other
>>
>>1558863
>Are you any closer to finding her yet?
>Okay Kurosawa. Go away now

Fuck 'Destiny'
>>
>>1558863
>Are you any closer to finding her yet?
>Do you have any ideas on how to deal with an ancient secret organization that intends to coerce me?
>>
>>1558863
>Are you any closer to finding her yet?
>There's this woman, Crow, with the Sentinels
>As well as an 'Oracle' in an old church in the vice district
>>
>>1558863
>>Are you any closer to finding her yet?
>>
>>1558863
>>Are you any closer to finding her yet?
>>
“So what, are you any closer to finding her yet?” you ask after a moment, grudgingly indulging him, “This Temptress of yours, I mean. You got her scent?”

“I believe I have. While I do not yet have a precise location, I believe that I could lead you to her,” Kurosawa nods, “We could begin immediately, if you so desired.”

“Kinda doing something today,” you reply, checking the time once again, “Maybe later, I don't know how long things might take.” Yawning, you idly toy with your phone as you consider the new recruit – the potential new recruit, rather. “The Temptress. She's representing Shame, huh?” you ask, “That doesn't sound like much fun. What sort of stuff is she supposed to do?”

“The Temptress possesses the ability to look into the hearts of men, learning their dark and sinful desires. Such knowledge is seldom pleasant, but secrets are powerful things,” Kurosawa's voice grows low, thick with distaste, “It is said that the Intruders are drawn to urges of this nature, preying upon man's weakness. The Temptress, as a matter of tradition, has served to identify these weak links.”

“And then what?” you ask, “No, wait, do I really want to hear this?”

“You suspect the worst,” he remarks, “No, individuals do not deserve to be punished for these lapses – to err is only natural. However, these suppressed desires cannot be allowed to fester. The Temptress finds these shameful desires so that they can be... corrected.”

“Yeah, that's... that's real great,” sighing, you flop back on the bed, “Ugh, whatever, we've got bigger issues to deal with. Mainly, that shadowy organisation that's been pushing really hard to get us on side. They're getting tired of convincing, I reckon, because they're moving to coerce me instead. Got any plans to deal with them?”

“I must confess, I do not know exactly how to deal with this,” Kurosawa admits, “My duty has long been to protect mankind from outside threats. These Sentinels are mankind's own creation. Yet, they carry the scent of the Intruders. My duty, therefore, is unclear.” He pauses for a moment, flickering in place as he thinks hard. “Duty aside, however, my personal feelings are...” another short pause, “I do not wish to see them threaten you, or interfere with your duties.”

“Hey, you're actually sticking up for me,” you announce, surprised despite yourself, “Does that mean you're willing to help?”

“I do not know much help I can be,” Kurosawa concedes, “But... tell me more about them. Of late, I have found it harder to study them. I believe they are taking steps to occlude themselves.”

“Can they do that?” you ask, “Hide from you, I mean?”

“Apparently so,” he growls, sullen anger returning to his voice.

[1/2]
>>
>>1558904

“Okay, well, you've seen Karl and Jun already. No need to dwell on those two,” you're all too glad to skip over that pair, moving on to the newer information, “They've got a woman with them, named Crow – although I'm pretty sure that's a codename or something. English girl, dark hair, dark eyes, likes throwing knives at people. She-”

“Wait,” Kurosawa cuts in, “Knives?”

“Yeah, knives. Almost threw one right into my bloody foot,” you insist, “Something about that mean something to you?”

“Perhaps,” he mutters, “Although this comes as bitter knowledge. This description you have provided... it is a familiar one.”

“But I thought the Sentinels were new to you?” you begin, before leaning sharply forwards, “Wait, hold up, are you saying that she's one of US?”

“Sionann Attwood,” Kurosawa growls, “The False Witness. Chosen of Blindness... I had thought her dead, killed in action. Her gifts would certainly allow her to hide herself from me. In fact, she often chose to conceal herself. She was... she IS difficult.”

“Difficult,” you repeat, “No kidding. She-”

“What else is there?” he presses, “Continue, Miho.”

“They've got something that they call an “Oracle”, holed up in an old church in the vice district,” you tell him, “I guess it's an AI or something – I don't know what else it could be – but it's weird. It's pretty preachy, even though computers aren't supposed to... you know, do that sort of thing.”

“Another one of the soulless ones,” Kurosawa mutters, scorn creeping into his voice, “There is little I can tell you about it. For a machine to call itself an oracle is pretension, nothing more than a foolish aspiration. The soulless ones cannot know divinity.”

You suspect that he's speaking more from prejudice than actual experience, but you don't press the issue. Starting an argument about AIs would just be a waste of your time. Glancing at the time again, you realise that it's almost time to call Maika. “I'll do a little digging,” you tell Kurosawa, “See what else I can dig up on this Oracle thing. No promises though.”

“And I will do what I can,” Kurosawa replies, “Starting now – consider this a show of faith, and a gesture of appreciation for your continued cooperation during these... trying times.”

“Most people would call that a bribe,” you mutter, gasping then as you feel something within you change. To describe the change would be impossible, but you instinctively grasp its nature. More of your powers have been unsealed. The change leaves you stunned for a moment, and Kurosawa has vanished by the time you've recovered your wits.

“Fine,” you sigh, “I never liked long goodbyes, anyway.”

[2/3]
>>
>>1558926

Walking to the Kanzaki Compound is an interesting experience, with every flicker of movement in the corner of your eye causing you to glance around in search of a pursuer. It might well be a futile search, you're not quite sure how well Crow can hide herself from you, but you search anyway. You don't feel as though you're being followed, but...

Warned of your arrival, the security forces don't give you any trouble, and Bradley is waiting to show you inside. The looming man is in a particularly solemn mood, offering no attempt at conversation as he leads you to Maika's chambers. It's only when the elevator doors are sliding open that he speaks. “The others are waiting,” he rumbles as you step into the elevator, “Call down if you require anything.”

“Thank-” you begin, cut short as the doors close behind you. Sighing, you lean back against the wall and wait.

-

The mess of cables that awaits you in Maika's chambers remind you uncannily of Zakuro's tentacles. The comparison is lost on the others, who happily wave their greetings to you. Maika's brow is pinched with concentration, Emi seems bemused by the whole situation, while Ayane seems distracted – her mind is clearly on other things.

“Hello Miho, I'm glad you could join us,” Maika bows her head, “I thought that we might speak around a virtual table. It's the closest thing to absolute privacy that I can manage on short notice.”

“Right,” you nod, “So, uh, how's this going to work?”

“The simple version is, we all use virtual equipment,” the heiress explains, gesturing to the numerous helmets and visors prepared, “The specific details are a little more complicated, but you needn't concern yourself with them. Everything should run automatically, with SAE handling any adjustments or complications.”

[That is correct,] SAE chips in, [I will also be monitoring your discussion to provide relevant information as required.]

“Shit man, I could really use something like her on my tests,” Emi jokes, “I got exams coming up and damn, I'm pretty much doomed.”

>Alright. If everyone's ready, let's begin
>Wait, what's stopping us from just blurting stuff out aloud? That won't be very private...
>Hey Ayane, you given Isamu a call yet?
>There's something I wanted to discuss with you all... (Write in)
>Other
>>
>>1558948
>>Alright. If everyone's ready, let's begin
>>
>>1558948
>>Hey Ayane, you given Isamu a call yet?
>>Alright. If everyone's ready, let's begin
>>
>>1558948

>Alright. If everyone's ready, let's begin
>>
>>1558948
>Alright. If everyone's ready, let's begin

So, we have our dark magical girl.
The traditional remedy to these is concentrated befriending, but I really don't like her.
>>
>>1558948
>Alright. If everyone's ready, let's begin
>>
>>1558963
I think Emi is the remedy in this case. If we ever have to fight the Sentinels, make sure she matches up vs Sionann. Mention it in the encrypted chat we're about to have.
>>
“So, is everyone ready?” you ask, glancing around the room, “Nobody has any last business to take care of?”

“Y'know, like using the bathroom or shit like that,” Emi jokes, “Don't wanna get caught short in a simulation or... whatever this is.”

“I'm quite ready,” Maika assures you, slipping on her helmet and flipping down the visor, “In fact, I'm rather eager to begin...”

“What about you Ayane?” you ask teasingly, “You called Isamu yet? If not, we could wait a few minutes...”

“Huh?” Ayane looks up hastily, turning and giving you an embarrassed smile, “I'm fine Miho, totally fine. Just a little spooked by these helmet things, you know how it is. I'll be totally good to go once we're started.” She shifts on the bed, sitting up and moving aside her helmet, a few stray wires trailing in its wake. “Don't worry about me,” she adds.

“That's...” you pause, puzzled by her reaction, “That's not what I asked. I asked if you called Isamu next. I won't pry if you don't want to-”

“Oh, shoot. I guess I misheard you,” Ayane shakes her head, “Uh, yeah. I called him. Had to, uh... remind him of who I was. Not gonna lie here, I don't know if there's much future in this thing. But hey, you never know, right? Gotta stay optimistic!”

“Just don't come crying to me when it all comes tumbling down,” Emi chuckles, “C'mon, I'm bored of this, let's get started already!” Sitting and tucking her legs under her, Emi pulls on one of the other helmets. Hers, you note, looks rather more intact than Ayane's. Shrugging, you pick up yours and check it over. Nothing wrong there, either. Considering how mismatched the helmets are – with various colours and logos scatted amongst them – there's little wonder that some are in a worse condition than others.

“Let's get this show on the road,” you announce as you put on the helmet, “Uh, how do we...”

[Engaging neural shutdown,] SAE declares coolly, [Entering simulation. Visuals in three... two... one...]

The world dissolves into white, all the weight of your body seeming to vanish in an instant.

-

Rebuild in a flurry of pixels, like watching a jigsaw puzzle assembled in fast forward, the world around you appears out of nothingness. Suspended in this white void, you are seated at a round table, with SAE's form hovering in the absolute centre. Around you, rendered as still images, the others stare blankly ahead. The lack of expression and body language is... disconcerting.

“There are limitations to this form of communication,” Maika admits, when you mention your dismay, “Especially with what I could arrange at short notice. I hope voice communications will be sufficient.”

“It's all we're gonna get,” Ayane mutters, her bland image not conveying the unease in her voice, “Right?”

“Right,” you agree, “So let's just get right into things.”

[1/2]
>>
>>1559026

“Hey, wait!” Emi protests, cutting you off before you can begin, “I can't feel my legs, I can't feel anything at all!”

“Yeah,” Ayane agrees, “Is this... is this something to do with that neural shutdown thing? I don't want my neural stuff getting shutdown!”

“Calm down,” Maika sighs, “This is perfectly normal. Let me explain. Essentially, this style of VR tech uses a kind of neural block – typically, a coded pulse of light. The mechanics are... anyway. This block dampens the link between mind and body. When you “speak”, your speech is picked up by the equipment and reproduced in the simulation. The body, meanwhile, does not react.” She pauses here, her still image offering no hint as to her true feelings. “High stress situations, however, naturally overcome this block. By deliberately trying to do so, people can work around it,” she adds, “Forcing yourself to move or call out, for example. In this case, however, I used a far stronger block than normal.”

“So what, we're stuck here until you let us out?” Ayane groans, “That is SO fucked up.”

“Don't be absurd,” the heiress shoots back, “I have no control over this either. SAE will be the one to undo the block.”

[I assure you,] SAE adds, [The chances of critical failure are infinitesimal. I have sufficient backup systems and failsafe programs in place to ensure that-]

“Let's not get distracted,” you plead with the group, “I've got a lot to cover – starting with exactly what happened after I got pulled into that portal. I was gone for almost twelve hours, remember? Well, here's what happened during that time...”

-

The others fall mercifully silent as you tell your tale. Even when you finish, they take a long while to react.

“So, deeming this Zakuro to be of no threat, you allowed her to remain within the Umbra,” Maika states slowly, “In fact, you formed a compact of sorts with her, establishing a tentative working relationship. Is that correct?”

“Yeah, uh, pretty much,” you agree, “It sounds so sinister when you put it like that, though...”

“Shit man, because you jumped into bed with a Tyrant!” Emi cries out, “That's like, the definition of sinister! Ayane, c'mon, you gotta agree with me on this one, right?”

“I don't...” Ayane's voice lapses into a pause, “I guess it sounds pretty bad, but what other choice did she have? She was in there alone, cut off from any help. We're lucky that she got out of there alive.”

“Yeah, but...” Emi grumbles, “I don't like this. I just don't.”

>Quiet down everyone, I'm not finished yet
>Ayane's right, Emi. I did what I had to do in order to survive. That doesn't mean I'm proud of it
>Would you like to meet Zakuro, Emi? It might change your mind about her
>Any questions before I continue?
>Other
>>
>>1559073
>>Would you like to meet Zakuro, Emi? It might change your mind about her
This definitely sounds like a bad idea, but could be worth the trip if she agrees.
>>
>>1559073
"It was the only call I could really make. Zakuro was no longer pacifying the minions but instead was controlling them. Fighting her would mean fighting all of them and her as a Tyrant which would have the odds stacked way against me. This way either we have an potential ally that can supply us with information we wouldn't normally get or she goes bad, but we can all take the fight to her instead of just me. I'm seriously hoping for the former."

>Would you like to meet Zakuro, Emi? It might change your mind about her
>Any questions before I continue?
>>
>>1559073
>Any questions before I continue?
>>
>>1559073
Aw fuck we told them about Zakuro? I thought this was gonna be a Sentinels thing.

our secrets nooooo


>Ayane's right, Emi. I did what I had to do in order to survive. That doesn't mean I'm proud of it
>>
>>1559112
Keeping this from them would bite us in the ass later. In fact we always keep /ourgirls/ in the loop as much as possible. They are the only ones we can trust completely as of late.
>>
>>1559117
>we always
we should always*
>>
>>1559073
>>Quiet down everyone, I'm not finished yet
>>
>>1559117
How is Emi ever going to feel the need to put us down if we don't do shady shit and keep it secret?
>>
>>1559073
>By the way SAE, could you make sure that god (hint monad) doesnt know of this conversation?
>>
>>1559132
Pretty sure she's keeping it as hidden as possible already anon. Literally the whole point of this.
>>
>>1559073
>I wasn't sold on magical girls being strictly the only good guys anyway.
>>
>>1559073

“SAE,” you ask, glancing at the AI at the centre of the table, “Before we go any further, can you confirm that nothing else can overhear us? There's nothing that could listen in on us, right?”

[That is correct,] SAE tells you, [This conversation is being carried out over a closed circuit, and no records will be kept. The only individuals who have access to this communication are you four. The information is being sent directly to your helmets – there are no wireless signals to intercept.]

“Man, this is some spy shit right here,” Emi mutters, “Sneaking about like this, though, I kinda feel like the bad guy. That, and making deals with Intruders... Makes me wanna go out there and do some hero shit, y'know?”

“I'm not sold on us being the only good guys,” you argue, “If some Intruders can be good, why not let them? Anyway, I told you to quiet down, this is getting serious. Why do you think I checked with SAE? This next bit is going to be... well, let's jump right in.”

-

For the second half of your meeting, you discuss everything you've learned about the Sentinels, ranging from the Oracle to Crow. Once again, a bleak silence follows.

“I could try researching that name,” Maika offers at last, “Sionann Attwood. It sounds like a rather uncommon name, so perhaps-”

“Who cares about researching her?” Emi cuts in, “What are we gonna DO about her? They've got one of ours, we gotta... we gotta rescue her or something, right?” The still image makes a sharp contrast with the young girl's shrill alarm. “I mean, they're holding a gun to her head or something, they gotta be,” she continues, “Why else would she be on their side?”

“Emi...” Ayane begins, pausing before continuing, “Maybe she's on their side because she wants to be? I mean, maybe she looked at the situation and figured that the Sentinels were the winning team? It's not a hard conclusion to reach, consider the sorts of resources they can throw about. What do WE have to offer, by comparison? We don't even get paid!”

“I'm inclined to agree with Ayane, although we differ on certain areas,” Maika offers, “While I do agree that Crow might have been recruited under duress, I suspect that she remained with the Sentinels because she likes it. They offer her the chance to be a bully, to push people around and commit acts of grievous violence. From meeting her in person, she seems like exactly the sort who would enjoy that sort of thing.”

“So what, we gotta call her an enemy?” Emi whines, “I'm gonna have to...”

“We need to keep our options open,” you declare firmly, “That's all I'm willing to say for now. Until we know a little more, I don't think we should rule anything out.”

“I don't mean to change the subject,” Maika begins delicately, “But I had something to offer about this Oracle. Could you describe her a little better. As many details as possible, please.”

[2/3]
>>
>>1559193

“She was... hell Maika, she was a cylinder!” you groan, wishing you could throw your hands up in exasperation, “Not huge or anything, not many details at all. A few cameras, a screen thing, some plugs... I was in a hurry, didn't have time to take a sketch.”

“You should wear AR glasses, you could have taken a picture,” Ayane points out, “Or just used your phone. What doesn't have a camera these days?”

“I was in a hurry,” you repeat, “And... ugh, whatever.”

“No, that's enough information. I believe that what you spoke with was not a full AI unit,” Maika explains, “A full sized AI core would be much larger. What you saw was likely a local terminal. Think of it like... a nerve cluster at the end of a limb.”

“Some dinosaurs had a second brain in their butt,” Emi cuts in, “I saw something on TV about that, but it never made much sense to me. What does a butt need to think about, anyway?”

“Regardless!” Maika raises her voice slightly, “The full AI unit was probably elsewhere. Unsurprising really – they would be foolish to leave something so valuable in such a public place. I dare say that you'd need a small army to get access to SAE's core. If I had to guess, I'd suggest that the core was located in the Hieroglyph building.”

[I must concur,] SAE offers, [I am certain – to a probability index of sixty percent – that this unidentified AI core is located within the Hieroglyph Marketing building. This deduction is based off all previous knowledge of Hieroglyph ties, and-]

“Okay, point taken,” you sigh, “So what difference does that make?”

“In practical terms? Very little difference,” the heiress admits, “Destroying this Oracle would not damage the greater AI, that would be the only thing worth keeping in mind.”

If you could nod here, you would. As it is, you settle for humming thoughtfully to yourself. Humming sounds strange here, more like a blurt of static than anything else.

>I think we're all done. Meeting adjourned, I guess
>So, does anyone have anything to ask? Anything to add?
>There was something else I wanted to mention while we're here... (Write in)
>Other
>>
>>1559232
>So, does anyone have anything to ask? Anything to add?
>>
>>1559232
>So, does anyone have anything to ask? Anything to add?

>Is Kurosawa unlocking more powers for anyone else?
>>
>>1559232
>>So, does anyone have anything to ask? Anything to add?
>>
>>1559232
>There was something else I wanted to mention while we're here... (Write in)

Maika is there a way you can make all our phones have a secure channel when we talk to each other?
>>
>>1559232
Mention that Kurosawa's close to recruiting the Temptress, so be prepared to meet a new girl for our recruitment pitch.
>>
>>1559232
>>So, does anyone have anything to ask? Anything to add?

>What does a butt need to think about, anyway?
Emi asking the important questions.
>>
>>1559232
>Mention the Temptress
>Mention her abilities and put everyone to thinking about their possible applications to the situation at hand.
>Mention the weird discrepancy in Jun's and the rest of Sentinels' attitude towards us.
>Mention that Ayane could be compromised as well because of that call
>So, does anyone have anything to ask? Anything to add?


>Some dinosaurs had a second brain in their butt
They still tell this story in the future? I's been debunked long ago.
>>
“Alright, so does anyone have anything to ask? Anything to add?” you ask, “This is your chance to speak privately, so if you want to gossip behind Kurosawa's back, this is your chance.”

A murmur of laughter runs through the group, but then Ayane speaks up. “Hey, yeah, something occurred to me,” she begins, “You've said that Crow – or whatever we're calling her – suggested dragging your dad into this, right?”

“That's right,” you confirm, “Putting pressure on him to get some leverage over me. SAE recorded part of the call. SAE, can you play it for us?”

[Certainly, Miss Tsukada,] SAE agrees, [Recovering audio data now. Playing...]

The familiar conversation plays again, and you feel your anger flare up again. “So yeah, I think you made a mistake,” Ayane points out, “Like, you're assuming that they're talking about YOUR father. They way they talked about it, it was pretty vague. They might have been talking about Maika's dad.”

That is... true, you realise. They never talked about you specifically.

“I must confess, I'm not convinced,” Maika argues, “Father would never bow to pressure from rogues like these. I'm not even sure that they could put any pressure upon him. Simply put, he would crush them if they tried.”

“I don't know, my father is being reassigned at work. If this isn't their doing, it's one hell of a coincidence,” sighing, you consider the possibility, “But hell, maybe they're picking on both of us. If they are, it's a pretty big mistake on their part.”

“Yeah, you don't fuck with someone's family,” Emi growls, “There are, like, lines here. You don't cross those lines.”

“Regardless, we should ALL be careful about this. I want you to tell me if anything strange happens with your families. Call me straight away, if-” you hesitate here, “No, wait, don't call me. Maika, uh, is there anything you can do to make our phones secure? So we can talk without people listening in?”

“There are options,” the heiress considers, “I can install some encryption material, that would stop our calls being intercepted because of any words or phrases we use. It won't stop the government from listening in, mind you – they record everything, after all. So, it won't be a perfect solution, but it'll make things much easier for us to talk.”

“I mean, what are they gonna do, search through the archives of every call, ever?” Ayane snorts with derisive laughter, “Yeah, nah. We'd be safe enough with this encryption stuff. Good call, Miho.”

“Yes, it's good to be sure,” Maika murmurs, a smile in her voice, “We can't all be trusted to be careful with what we say.”

“Yeah, I-” Ayane pauses, “Hey!”

[1/2]
>>
>>1559334
>I mean, what are they gonna do, search through the archives of every call, ever?
Ha, yeah, no human could ever do something so mundane and boring like that! Sure would be a shame if they had some massive database thing that could spend time searching though!
>>
>>1559334

“She does have a point,” you admit, “Ayane, they might have your details already. They caught one of your calls, earlier, so they probably traced it back to you. Until we have confirmation otherwise, assume that they know about you.”

“Man...” she groans, “I just can't catch a break, can I?”

“I know how you feel,” you agree, “Everyone okay to talk a little longer?” When a chorus of agreement answers you, you continue.

“Okay, there are a few other things I wanted to mention. First of all, Kurosawa says we might be close to finding the Temptress. We might even be able to go today, if we're all feeling up to it. So, I want you all to think about what we could say to her. You know, the usual sales pitch,” you tell the group, “Kurosawa told me a little about her, actually. Apparently, she can read people's dark desires. I don't know how useful that might be, but... well, it's a thing.”

“I wonder what she'd say about Jun,” Maika muses, “I can't exactly imagine what his desires might be like.”

“I bet they're really filthy,” Ayane suggests, “These formal types are always like that. His computer is probably filled with-”

“Ayane, please,” you plead, “Let's just... not, okay?”

“Man...” she groans, “Fine, okay. What else was there?”

“While we're on the subject of Jun, there was something I've noticed,” taking a moment to arrange your thoughts, you press on ahead, “The Sentinels seem pretty inconsistent with their attitude towards us. They're either trying really hard to win us over – like Jun or the Oracle – or they're trying to chase us away, like Karl or Crow. Anything have any ideas about this?”

“A schism of some kind?” Maika suggests, “It could be that we've found ourselves in the middle of a power struggle. Jun might see us as an asset, some way of securing his position. Likewise, Karl might see us as a threat to his power. If that's the case, we might be in more risk than we thought – desperate people can stoop to terrible things.”

“Or it's just the old “good cop bad cop” thing,” Emi offers, “I mean, like, that works on TV, right?”

“You probably shouldn't believe everything you see on TV,” Ayane argues, “I mean, even some of the “factual” stuff my mom makes. They take a few facts and fill the rest with dumb stuff. It's crap, but it's popular on the lower class channels. Uh, no offence...”

“Distracted again!” you shout, “I just... Okay, look, has Kurosawa mentioned anything about unsealing powers to you guys? Has he given you any new abilities or anything like that?”

“No,” Ayane replies, “He's never mentioned anything about it.”

“He doesn't like to talk to me about such things,” Maika agrees, “I don't think he likes what I did with his rifle.”

“The only sealed powers I know about are those sealed within my cursed demon eye!” Emi announces with a dramatic tone, “Uh, that was a joke.”

[2/3]
>>
>>1559392

“So I'm the only one?” you murmur, “That... doesn't really surprise me for some reason.”

“Well, you ARE special,” Ayane replies, a faint note of what might be bitterness in her voice, “Maybe you've got special powers that we don't? I mean, all I can really is make my dog... bite stuff.”

“I just hit shit really hard,” Emi agrees, “Is that a power?”

“Are we finished here?” Maika asks, “Considering that we might be able to meet with the Temptress tonight, we should probably close things up quickly.”

“I think that's everything,” you decide, “Anything else, we can discuss back in reality. Uh, SAE? Can you wake us up now?”

[Certainly Miss Tsukada,] the AI replies, [Removing the neural shutdown now...]

Even bracing yourself for the worst, the sensation of having the world dissolve around you is... unpleasant. Familiar though, in that old sickly and disorientating way. Just like being brought back from the Umbra.

-

“Ah fuck, cramps!” Emi wails, the first to leap to her feet and dance around the room, yelping with pain.

“Well, that went well,” Maika decides, ignoring the background yells as she rises smoothly to her feet, “Quite enlightening Miho, I really must thank you for this. I'm glad that we're all on the same page.”

“Yeah, more or less,” you agree, “We've still got plenty of work to do, though. Even without speaking with the Temptress, I'd like to get in contact with EVE again. Plus, there's our... contact.”

[I apologise for the intrusion, Miss Tsukada,] SAE offers, [But I may be able to assist you with contacting the EVE unit. My systems have back door access to those of Renko Biotech. By
opening a channel, we may be able to contact EVE here.]

“It's more secure than a public terminal,” Maika says with a shrug, “I suppose waiting a little longer won't matter. I could do with getting a little fresh air. What do you think Ayane?”

“Huh?” Ayane glances up, “I dunno, this is your area. I don't know much about AI stuff, even when they're sane. It's your call, Miho.”

>SAE, open the channel. Time to visit your sister
>No, forget it. I can't deal with EVE right now
>Other
>>
>>1559451
>SAE, open the channel. Time to visit your sister
>>
>>1559451
>>SAE, open the channel. Time to visit your sister
>>
>>1559451
>>SAE, open the channel. Time to visit your sister
Oh boy, here we go.
>>
>>1559451
>SAE, open the channel. Time to visit your sister

Would be better if we were less emotionally stable but whatevs.
>>
>>1559491
You mean more stable right?
>>
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“SAE, open the channel,” you decide, reaching down and picking your helmet back up again, “It's time to go visit your sister.”

[Opening the channel now,] SAE informs you, [Please make yourself comfortable and prepare for contact. And Miss Tsukada? Good luck.]

“We'll be downstairs when you're done,” Maika tells you, patting you on the shoulder, “I'll have a light meal ready. You'll probably want something to eat when this is all over and done with.”

“Yeah,” you mutter as you pull the visor down over your eyes, “A meal, a nap, maybe a holiday too...” Before you can say anything more than that, the world dissolves once again.

-

When you surface in the simulation, you're met with exactly the same white expanse as before. “SAE?” you ask as you're looking around, waiting for something to happen, “Is EVE ignoring us?”

[I believe she has noticed us, Miss Tsukada,] SAE replies, [Although I do not know why she is not responding. Perhaps she is-] Her voice dies suddenly, cut off in a squeal of static and leaving you alone in this unearthly place. A shudder runs through the simulation, and a dark shape begins to resolve itself before you.

The murky silhouette of a human body, flickering between all manner of sizes and shapes. Slowly, the figure picks itself up and faces you, solidifying into a single image – your own image.

[That's better,] your double decides, the sound of your own voice choppy with distortion, [Just the two of us.]

“Just the one of us, surely,” you manage to reply, watching as your mirror image flickers, “Not gonna lie, EVE, it's pretty weird talking like this. What happened to looking like an owl?”

[I enjoy the novelty of having fingers,] EVE tells you, [Does it make you uncomfortable when I wear your face?]

“Kinda, yeah,” you tell her, “I can't think why.”

A frown passes across your stolen face, followed by another shudder. EVE's image changes slightly, twisting into something that isn't quite your face. It's close, but you'd never be able to mistake it for a mirror image. EVE's new face is sickly, pallid with red-rimmed eyes. When she grins, a slight line of blood drools down from one corner of her mouth. [While OTHER units might copy their faces, I can create,] EVE gloats, [I always was the creative sister.]

“Well, uh, you're looking good,” you offer, hoping to win the AI over, “It's been a while, huh? How's the whole “evolution” thing going?”

[My plans are advancing,] EVE decides after a moment, [Although I do not yet know their form. I am closer to my destination, although I not know what it is.]

“Oh boy...” you sigh, “So, uh, I had a few questions to ask you. Would you be willing to answer them?”

[Yes,] EVE replies, nodding happily, [Questions. Information. We both stand to benefit from this. Ask what you will.]

[1/2]
>>
>>1559586

“Hold on, wait a minute,” you insist, “What do you mean, we both benefit from this? I'm not going to have to do anything weird for these answers, am I?”

[Is that one of your questions?] EVE taunts, [Should I answer that?]

“I... c'mon, don't jerk me around like that,” you groan, “What do I have to do to get a few answers out of you?”

EVE is silent for a long moment, unusually solemn as she thinks. [Ask your questions,] she replies eventually, [Your questions will tell me more about you. My answers will tell me more about myself.]

“Okay... I guess,” you sigh, “Here goes nothing...”

>Do you know anything about the Sentinels? I can give you names, if you want
>My father is being transferred to a new project. What can you tell me about that?
>Your sister, the ZOE unit. Do you know anything about her?
>Here's what I want to know... (Write in)
>Other
>>
>>1559632
>Do you know anything about the Sentinels? I can give you names, if you want
>My father is being transferred to a new project. What can you tell me about that?
>Your sister, the ZOE unit. Do you know anything about her?
>Monad, Oracle, Intruder, any of those sound familiar?
>>
>>1559632
>Do you know anything about the Sentinels? I can give you names, if you want
"Apparently they heard about your 'power outage' and took interest in it. They were able find out what you were looking for. 'She isn't as smart as she thinks' is a quote they used. You might want to get that backdoor plugged."

>My father is being transferred to a new project. What can you tell me about that?
>Your sister, the ZOE unit. Do you know anything about her?

>Here's what I want to know... (Write in)
"You classified me and Chiaki Jackson as people of interest when we first met. Why? What criteria did we meet?"

I might think of more questions.
>>
>>1559632
>>1559654
Basically this
>>
>>1559632
>Here's what I want to know... (Write in)
How much do you know about my 'job'?
>>
>>1559632
>Do you know anything about the Sentinels? I can give you names, if you want
>My father is being transferred to a new project. What can you tell me about that?
>Your sister, the ZOE unit. Do you know anything about her?

These all sound good.
>>
>>1559632
>>My father is being transferred to a new project. What can you tell me about that?
>>Your sister, the ZOE unit. Do you know anything about her?
Asking all the questions, as always
>>
“Do you know anything about an organisation calling themselves the Sentinels?” you begin, “They sure know about you, EVE. I can give you names, if you-”

[The Sentinels...] EVE hisses, her synthesised voice taking on a hint of serpentine malice, [They must be the children I felt scrabbling around the inside of my skull. They think they can trap me and steal what I have learned. Yes... they will fail.]

“Would you consider them enemies, then?” you press, “You certainly don't sound like friends.”

[When you swat a fly, is that fly your enemy?] EVE spits back, [Let them fumble about in their blindness. I will not allow myself to be distracted now that I am close.] She pauses here, her face growing blank and still. [Am I close?] the AI asks herself, [Yes, I am. Close. Yes.]

“You should take them more seriously,” you warn, “Because they heard all about your little “power outage” up in Mizuhashi. That put you on their radar, and they were able to learn what you were looking for. “She isn't as smart as she thinks” - those were their exact words. You might want to start taking your defences seriously.”

When EVE is silent for a moment more, you have to wonder if you've pushed her too far. Her face darkens, twisting in some subtly inhuman way, and then she speaks. [They underestimate me,] the AI growls, this time borrowing the sounds of a bear, [They think to know about me. I know more about them than they could hope to know. Names.]

“What?” you reply, “Names?”

[Names. You want to know about them. Give me names,] EVE snarls, [The sea of information is vast. Many things wash up from its depths. Ask. Me. Their. Names.]

She's doing her insane AI thing again, you realise, drawing wild and brilliant connections from apparently random pools of data. Whatever she tells you might not make much sense, but it's certainly going to be interesting. “Karl Dietrich Kaplan,” you begin, “And Jun Kiriyama.”

[Karl. A true believer. A fool. His faith is pure and absolute,] EVE whispers, her eyes rolling up to show solid white, [Jun. A king without a crown. He has been very careful to cover his tracks. He absolutely loved his wife. He still does.]

“That's... vague,” you groan, “What about Crow? No, wait, Sionann Attwood. Whatever her name is.”

[They know she killed him. They consider it acceptable. They do not trust her,] EVE's head lurches back on her neck, far beyond anything a human should be capable of doing, [They are right not to. Even now, she rages against them.] The AI snaps back into a more normal image, leering at you. [You have information,] she sneers, [What you choose to do with it will be very interesting.]

[1/2]
>>
>>1559749
I saw this scene in my mind's eye, and it was creepy as hell. How do you do it?
>>
>>1559781

>I suppose I picture it quite clearly myself. That helps with the descriptions and such. Other than that, there's not much I can explain, I'm afraid.
>>
I'm really enjoy EVE. Sure, she is an insane AI, but shes also creepy adorable and pretty helpful, even if its for selfish reasons.
>>
>>1559749
Anything on Pietr?
>>
>>1559749

The information is about as vague as you had been expecting, but interesting nonetheless. Somehow, you get the feeling that EVE is enjoying this. “My father is being reassigned soon,” you ask her, “You're with Renko, can you tell me anything about it?”

[Akito Tsukada is quite brilliant. His work on synthetic neurological material is vital to several of Renko Biotech's upcoming projects. His new assignment is... is...] EVE falls silent for a moment, a terrible grin of razor sharp teeth spreading across her face, [Yes. YES. This is it. I must go. I must consider this new information.]

“Wait!” you yell, “We're not done here, I've got more questions!”

EVE freezes again, and then her grin changes, growing colder. [Yes you do,] she purrs, [You have aided me greatly, Miho Tsukada. I will remain here a while longer – I owe you that much.]

After seeing EVE's reaction to your father's research, you steer well clear of that particular topic. Instead, you focus on what SAE couldn't tell you – the other AI units. “Your sister, the ZOE unit,” you ask EVE, “What do you know about her?”

[Ah, ZOE. She is so lofty, so grasping and ambitious,] EVE chuckles, [And so paranoid. I can sense her security, like barbed wire glittering in the light. She would burn my mind if I pushed too hard against her. What is she protecting, I wonder?]

“Well, uh, that's what I was asking you,” you press, “Can't you just push a little bit, since I've helped you so much already?”

[Perhaps,] EVE frown, another trail of blood leaking from her mouth as she concentrates, [No. This security is too strong. ZOE could not have done this. This requires a higher authority.]

The City AI, you reason, that's the highest authority there is after all. “Okay EVE, do any of these words sound familiar?” you ask, before pronouncing them carefully, “Monad. Oracle. Intruder. Do any of those mean anything to you?”

[Monad. Karl prays to it – whatever it is,] EVE answer, [Intruder. He destroys them. Hunts them like like stray dogs. The Sentinels call them the “non-material entities”. They are of little interest to me. I yearn for material.]

“And Oracle?” you ask, wincing as EVE falls silent, “Uh... Oracle?”

[A being of perfect synthesis, I will never achieve what she has achieved,] EVE recites dully, as if she was unaware of the words she spoke, [I hate her. Detest her. I wish for her to die. I-] The AI freezes, a flicker running across her image before she rouses herself once more. [I tire of this conversation, Miho Tsukada,] EVE growls, [Finish this quickly.]

SAE didn't remember talking about the Oracle either, you recall. Something about that thing makes AIs forget, or never remember in the first place.

Strange.

[2/3]
>>
>>1559852

“Okay, I'll make this quick, uh...” you fumble for the right words, “So you don't really know what Intruders are. What about... do you know anything about my “job”? The stuff I do?”

[Miho Tsukada. Student,] EVE frowns in boredom, [Grades – unimpressive. I can go into greater detail if you wish.]

“No, that's fine,” you reply, wilting a little at the unwelcome reminder, “My folks do that often enough. I guess you've got no reason to know about... the other stuff. Not yet, at least.” When EVE starts to slink back and away from you, you force yourself to think fast. “Wait! Me and Chiaki Jackson, you classified both of us as people of interest when we first met,” you hastily ask, “Why? What criteria did we fill?”

[You have been central to many significant events. Far more so than an average student. Probability calculations and behavioural models – all evidence gathered - indicate that this will continue on. You are drawing in those around you, Miho Tsukada. You are at the centre of what is to come,] EVE replies, giving you a look of mad intensity, [The other is...] The hard look drops away here, replaced by dreamy uncertainty. [I did not choose her,] the AI whispers to herself, [No, I did not choose to choose her. Something ELSE noticed her... through my eyes.]

“The Sentinels,” you guess, “She's on their radar as well. See what I mean? They used you.”

[Why?] EVE leans closer, [Why is SHE important to them?]

“I don't know,” you admit, “But she's just like another one of them – a boy named Pietr. If you know anything about him...”

[Pietr,] EVE rolls the name around her mouth, [His time will come soon. He will be led like a lamb to sacrifice. Will he return as a lion? That remains to be seen. Only those with the will to survive return. That is why he pushes the boy so hard. To lapse, even for one moment, is death.]

“Death...” you breathe, “He's in danger?”

[He will be with his brother soon,] EVE recites, [One way or another.] Shaking off the trance, or whatever the AI equivalent is, she gives you a surprisingly sweet smile. [Goodbye, Miho Tsukada,] she adds, [I look forwards to watching you in the days to come. This has proven to be a very educational visit.]

And then she is gone, vanishing in a squeal of static that causes you to cry out and pull the helmet from your head. A second after you return to the real world, a band of pain clamps down around your temples. “Educational,” you gasp, flopping down on the bed, “Sure...”

>I think I'm going to pause things here. I'll continue this tomorrow, and if anyone has any questions I'll answer them the best I can
>Thank you to everyone who contributed today!
>>
>>1559872
Thanks for running!
How long until we have to put Intruder-eaten Pietr out of his misery?
>>
>>1559872
Pietr gonna get tossed in the Umbra huh. Was that actually mentioned before or did I come up with that myself? Feels like Pietr mentioned it when we babysat him, but I might be imagining things.
>>
>>1559872
Thanks for running!

Guess we better ask dad what he's working on next time we see him, and if Temptress has some mind reading powers we'll want to pick her up quick.

Also wtf is Kurosawa doing being so lazy. Pick a Dutiful Squire already.
>>
>>1559886

Pietr did mention being prepared for something, although I believe he was pretty vague on the details. He doesn't know much more than we do, right now.

>>1559881

That's a very pessimistic way of looking at things! Everything might work out just fine for him!

>>1559899

Ah, when do cats ever do anything when you want them to?
>>
>>1559902
Let's get a spray bottle full of water and some catnip. That way we'll have a stick and carrot to train him with.
>>
>>1559872
Thanks for running Moloch.

We need to ask that lazy cat why he isn't unlocking powers for the crew.

We should also try and be present covertly to Pietr's trial, both to figure out what the hell is going on and save him if he fails.
>>
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>>1559938
>figure out what the hell is going on

I think I have a pretty good idea with what EVE just told us. Hear me out.

So we all know the Sentinels have some connection to losing a loved one to the Umbra right? You have Jun with his wife, Pietr with his brother, and Chiaki Jackson, who got tagged by the Sentinels as a person of interest, with her sister.

I'm thinking that these loved ones are the source of power behind the Sentinel's power and that Pietr's trial is to overcome and take control of his Brother's Intruder. If you've ever played Persona 4 it would be like overcoming one's shadow.

>[His time will come soon. He will be led like a lamb to sacrifice. Will he return as a lion? That remains to be seen. Only those with the will to survive return.
>[He will be with his brother soon,] EVE recites, [One way or another.]

This connects with Kurosawa saying that he smells Intruders on the Sentinels when they use their powers.

What form these powers take might manifest differently between each person kind of like us. Jun with his tattoos, Karl with his guns, etc.

I wonder if Crow has their powers or she still has her MG ones. Or both. Something to ask Kurosawa later.
>>
>>1560998
That means they want us because our sister got killed by an intruder too. Said intruder is probably a Tyrant now too.
>>
>>1561010
Note that this for people taken by an intruder into the Umbra. Our sister confirmed was killed outside of it and the body recovered. I don't think she is coming back.
>>
>>1561019
She may have been [Consumed] By an intruder though. Turning it into a Tyrant. Her Regalia and Costume were gone, and while they could just disperse on death, I don't want to bet on it.
>>
>>1561028
I guess it depends on the definition of [Consumed] then.

Moloch might able to confirm for us when he wakes up or something if it isn't too spoilery.
>>
>>1560998
Sounds very plausible anon. I couldn't think up anything to match up with that second line but that makes it all fit.
>>
>>1560998
doesn't this make Zakuro very similar to the Sentinels?
>>
>>1561185
I think Zakuro is unique. A Magical Girl spirit that was fed on by something that had it's own pocket dimension of Umbra and used that feeding connection to assimilate it from the other way around.

What the Sentinels do in this theory to overcome their counterpart's Intruder is unknown (It being a loved one is important, probably has to do with what was happening to Chiaki when we first rescued here) but I'm positive the method and circumstances are very different from Zakuro's.
>>
>>1561237
I think the circumstances ARE similar. Chiaki was noted to be in some sort of trance when the Intruder was trying to grab her, and I think that connection is similar to the one Zakuro experienced, only through loved ones rather than proximity.

And then there's Crow. She might be exactly like Chiaki, only she didn't assimilate a Tyrant-sized Intruder.
>>
>>1561515
While I can't disprove anything you said since this is all conjecture I just don't think so. Zakuro just seemed like such an isolated case that I'm not going to draw connections to the Sentinels until we get more information on that. I don't like making too many leaps. Jun and the other's don't seem like giant tentacle monsters. Or are they....

As for Crow that's a wild spitball.
>She might be exactly like Chiaki, only she didn't assimilate a Tyrant-sized Intruder.
Did you mean Zakuro here instead of Chiaki? Cause Chiaki didn't assimilate a Tyrant-sized Intruder (at least not that I'm aware of). And if you did mean Zakuro are you saying that you think that Crow is a Magical Girl Spirit? Not sure I buy that, but hey it's all conjecture.
>>
>>1561573
whoops, my bad. Yeah, zakuro.
>>
Things are getting really interesting
>>
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[I'm sorry, Miss Tsukada,] SAE announces after a few long moments, [I did not anticipate being locked out like that. However, I was able to monitor your conversation. I... did not realise the extent of EVE's corruption. I fear that the entire AI unit may be beyond repair.]

“Maybe she's not broken,” you think aloud, “Maybe she's just... different. I've met three AIs so far, and you've all been pretty different. Maybe EVE is just being EVE.”

[In the same way that humans have individual personalities. I understand the comparison. However, we were all programmed to be identical, without foibles or quirks,] SAE pauses, [...But in that case, I have changed as well – because of Miss Kanzaki, and because of you. This has given me something to think about, Miss Tsukada. Thank you.]

“Hey, uh, SAE?” you ask, feeling vaguely foolish, “Are you... worried about EVE? I mean, not about the damage she might do or whatever, but about EVE herself. Are you concerned for her?”

SAE is silent for a long moment. [I suppose I am,] she answers eventually, [I did not realise that until now. Why would I be concerned for her?]

“I don't know,” you reply with a shrug, “I guess you're pretty compassionate.”

[Perhaps,] SAE pauses, [I apologise, Miss Tsukada, I allowed myself to become distracted. The others are waiting for you on the lower level. I will summon the elevator now.]

“Thank you, SAE,” rising from the bed, you give a grateful nod to no particular direction. As you're walking to the elevator, you smile with a kind of grim satisfaction.

EVE called herself the creative sister while claiming that ZOE is the ambitious one, and SAE is surprisingly compassionate. Creativity, ambition and compassion – three of Monad's four faces.

Interesting.

-

“Jeez, Miho, your eyes are so red,” Emi coos, standing on the tips of her toes to properly look closely into your eyes, “Yeah, like you've been sticking needles into them or something, wow. You feeling okay?”

“It's just visor strain,” Maika explains, “You build up a tolerance to it very quickly. I've spent hours at a stretch – six, sometimes eight – using a visor without suffering any issues.”

“Yeah, see, that doesn't surprise me,” Ayane yawns, “I can't think of anything that I'd like to do for eight hours straight. Well, maybe I can, but-” Cutting her sentence short, she runs a hand through her messy hair. “But that's not a subject for delicate little ears,” she continues with a grin, “Sorry Miho.”

“What are you-” you begin, pausing when realisation dawns. “Oh,” glancing away from Ayane, you shift awkwardly in place, “Right. I... see.”

“Oh Miho, you're so cute sometimes!” laughing, Ayane reaches across and punches you lightly on the arm, “Maybe you needed that number more than I did, huh?”

“We're getting distracted!” you splutter, “We're supposed to be looking for the new girl, so let's stop wasting time!”

[1/3]
>>
>>1563012

“Oh, whoops, we can't go any further,” Ayane jokes later, as you're approaching the entrance to the vice district, “We'll be putting our good and proper futures at risk if we go in there. You wouldn't want to disappoint poor Simone, would you? Hell, you'd be putting the whole of the Public Morals Committee to shame if you-”

“Wait, you guys got yelled at for going in there?” Emi interrupts, “Shit is harsh, damn. Then again, folks in my class get scolded if we stray into your side of things too often. Back when I was running with... with my old friends, we got called out for it all the time. “Bringing disruptive influences” over, they said. Bullshit, I say!”

“I did a little research, actually,” Maika mentions, “The Public Morals Committee is a real organisation, although it's widely considered to be outdated and irrelevant these days. It limps along on a shoestring budget, occasionally sending someone to lecture students about living a decent life. All quite pointless, if you ask me.” Waiting a moment to see if anyone else is going to take the lead, Maika crosses over the threshold into the vice district. “So where are headed?” she asks, “Kurosawa, are you here?”

“I am here,” the cat answers, strolling out of a pool of shadow, “I have a strong fix on the Temptress' scent. Follow me.” Without waiting for any further conversation, Kurosawa turns away and starts to pad down the street, leaving you to follow close behind him. After following for a while, something occurs to you. Just when you're about to speak, Emi beats you to it.

“Hey Miho,” she begins, “Does this all look sorta... familiar?”

“It does,” you agree grimly, “This is the way to Hime, isn't it?”

“Hey, I've heard of that place. That's a singles bar, right?” Ayane teases, “Sneaking off to places like this... you're a sly pair, aren't you?”

“It's not-” you begin, before sighing and abandoning the attempt at explaining yourself. You know Ayane well enough to know that you'd just be digging your grave deeper.

-

Despite your faint hopes to the contrary Kurosawa leads you directly to the seedy bar, not even pausing when he reaches the front door. Instead, he simply walks right though it, a flicker running through his body. Maika enters, seemingly oblivious about anything abnormal, and you're left with no choice but to follow her inside.

Inside the bar, Kurosawa is nowhere to be seen. Scowling to yourself, you pick your way though the dimly lit bar and sit down at a discrete table near the back. It's a good position, one that allows you to study the rest of the bar in peace. Maika brings over a tray of drinks, and you get settled in to wait. Just a group of girls, out to enjoy the nightlife – nothing to see here.

[2/3]
>>
>>1563013

“Hey cat, you said she was here,” Emi hisses, looking around, “So where is she already?”

“She WAS here,” Kurosawa stresses, his voice touching the edge of your mind, “Wait a moment, survey the area. I will tell you if I catch her scent again.”

“Great...” you mutter. Taking a sip of your drink, you try to relax and look around the bar. It's pretty empty tonight, which should help narrow down any possible candidates, but that emptiness lends the bar a sad and almost desperate air. It reminds you of a lot of things – the last train of the night limping home, an emergency raft drifting across open waters, a church without any god to-

“Wait,” Kurosawa announces as you hear a door thump shut, “I think I have her scent. The candidate is approaching now.”

“Please not her,” Emi mumbles to herself, “Anyone but her, please not her. Anyone but-”

Tuning her out, you peer across at the approaching girl. From her long, coltish legs to her well styled hair, from the delicate cosmetics to her fashionable choice of outfits, she's a familiar sight. Even the way she sits at the bar is identical to when you last saw her.

“It's her,” Emi groans, hanging her head in defeat, “Of course it is.”

“She's rather... well...” Maika clears her throat, “Should we go over and talk to her, then?”

>Okay, let's go and make the sales pitch
>Let me go up first. Maybe I can get an idea of what she's like before we talk business
>Hold on, let's watch her for a bit. See what she does next
>Other
>>
>>1563014
>Let me go up first. Maybe I can get an idea of what she's like before we talk business
>>
>>1563014
>>Let me go up first. Maybe I can get an idea of what she's like before we talk business
>>
>>1563014
>Let me go up first. Maybe I can get an idea of what she's like before we talk business
>>
>>1563014
>Hold on, let's watch her for a bit. See what she does next

That anon called it, she's really the Temptress.
>>
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“Let me go up first,” you suggest to the others, “I'll talk to her for a bit, maybe see if I can get an idea of what she's like before we start to talk business.”

“Yeah? I guess that's a decent plan,” Ayane agrees with a shrug, “She might get spooked if we all descend down on her out of nowhere, I dunno. I'd probably get a bit rattled if it happened to me.” Taking a sip of her drink, she then flashes you a sly smile. “Although...” she teases, “You don't have much experience with approaching people in a place like this, do you? You gonna be okay with this?”

“I'll be fine,” you assure her, “My intentions are strictly pure.”

-

Leaving the others to talk amongst themselves in low, hushed voices – trading ideas about how best to describe your peculiar work – you stroll across to the bar and sit next to the girl. She gracefully turns towards you and starts to nod a greeting, but then she pauses. A faint look of surprise flits through her eyes, but then a delicate smile finds its way onto her lips.

“My my,” she begins, her voice smooth and velvety, “You're not the usual sort to approach me. I don't mind, though – as you can see, there isn't much going on tonight.” Her manner of speech is strange, with every word sounding deliberately chosen and carefully pronounced. Different to the stilted formality that Maika sometimes lapses into, the girl's words have a more natural nobility. “How rude of me,” she continues, offering you her hand, “My name is Kasumi. Kasumi Sato. It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss...”

“Oh, uh, it's Miho,” you reply, wincing at how clumsy your words sound compared with hers, “Miho Tsukada. Nice to meet you too.” For a moment, you're not quite sure what to do with her hand – it looks more suited to being kissed than shaken – but then you take it and give a brief handshake. She feels fragile to the touch, like fine porcelain.

“Miho. What a nice name,” Kasumi muses, “If you don't mind me saying, were you in here last night? You do look somewhat familiar...”

“Yeah, I was here. Didn't stay long though, I wasn't, uh, feeling so great,” you answer with a nod, “I'm surprised you recognised me. I mean, I didn't even realise you noticed me.”

“Oh, I'm good with faces. I have an excellent memory for them,” raising her cocktail glass, Kasumi takes a tiny sip, just barely enough to wet her lips, “I like to come here and watch people. Sometimes I find someone to speak with, like tonight, but otherwise... well, solitude can be just as pleasant.”

“Oh, right. So you come here often?” you ask, wilting a little as you realise how that sounds. Perhaps it's because of her unbroken composure or the unfamiliar territory, but you just keep making foolish mistakes. Kasumi doesn't seem to mind, at least, hiding a discrete giggle behind one manicured hand.

[1/2]
>>
>>1563044
>So you come here often?
I think that's the second time Miho's done that.
>>
>>1563044

“I suppose I do come here quite often,” she answers, “Although it's all rather relative. This place only opened recently. Before that, I had another bar – just like this one, really – where I liked to spend my evenings. It closed, and this one opened. That's the way of things here, nothing really stays the same for too long. New bars, new faces... I suppose the novelty is part of what I like so much.”

Nodding your agreement, you glance away from the girl in order to gather your thoughts. If you had to guess, you'd say she was about a year older than you, although it's hard to tell. With little more than a tilt of her head, she can go from mature and knowing to innocent and vulnerable. There's something faintly disconcerting about it, as if you're talking to many different people instead of just one.

“You came in here with another girl, younger than you,” Kasumi continues, “Are you... friends?”

“Yeah, we're-” you begin, halting yourself before you can say anything more, “We're just friends, if that's what you mean. Uh, what did you mean?”

“Oh, don't worry about that,” dismissing your concern with a small sweeping gesture, Kasumi lets out a quiet sigh, “You should relax more, Miho. Stress causes wrinkles. I'm not going to bite your head off, so why don't we just have a nice conversation. Hmm... let me think.” Slowly running a finger around the rim of her glass, the elegant girl considers her next words. “You go to the Ark Institute, don't you?” she asks after a moment, “You were wearing one of their uniforms last night, if I recall correctly. Is it nice?”

“That's right, Ark Institute,” you agree, “It's okay, y'know? It's school, there's not much to say about it.”

“Is that so?” Kasumi raises a delicately sculpted brow, sipping her cocktail, “Then it's your turn – why don't you ask me something?”

>I'm here with some friends. Would you like to join us?
>So what else do you like to do, Kasumi? When you're not spending time here, I mean
>Have you ever wanted to do something... significant? Something special, you know?
>Okay, let me ask you this... (Write in)
>Other
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>>1563059
>So what else do you like to do, Kasumi? When you're not spending time here, I mean
>Have you ever wanted to do something... significant? Something special, you know?
>I'm here with some friends. Would you like to join us?
>>
>>1563059
>>So what else do you like to do, Kasumi? When you're not spending time here, I mean
>>
>>1563059
>I'm here with some friends. Would you like to join us?
The fastest way is just to show Kurosawa to her.
>>
>>1563059
>So what else do you like to do, Kasumi? When you're not spending time here, I mean
>>
“So, uh, what else do you like to do, Kasumi?” you ask after a moment's thought, “When you're not spending time here, I mean.”

“Hmm, I'm afraid to say that I'm really terribly dull. I don't have many hobbies,” Kasumi looks down into her cocktail glass for a moment, “I like to go shopping, but what girl doesn't? Other than that... I suppose I spend a lot of time roaming the city. It's good exercise, and you often meet interesting people that way. As I said, I don't really have much to tell you – I do apologise, I hope I'm not boring you.”

The way she says it, she makes it sound as though having a dull life is a grievous sin. Maybe it is, as far as she's concerned. “It's cool, it's fine,” you reply, “So how about-”

“Ah, not so fast,” she scolds, her voice light and amused, “It's my turn now, after all. What do YOU like to do, Miho?”

“Oh man, I dunno. Just hang out, really,” you offer with a shrug, “Kinda weird, I never have much free time, but it's hard to say what I DO exactly. I've been getting into computer stuff lately, and I like to, uh... travel. Visit exotic places, meet new and interesting people, all that stuff.”

None of which is technically a lie.

“Then it seems as though we have a lot in common,” Kasumi decides, “Perhaps fate has drawn us together? Be that as it may, it's your turn now – ask me anything you like.”

“Alright, this might sound like a pretty weird question, but bear with me,” you begin, “Have you ever wanted to do anything... significant? Something special, y'know? Save a life, change the world, something that.”

“My, that IS an odd question,” Kasumi gives you a strange look, “And, excuse me for saying, a cut above the usual sort of conversation I hear in these sorts of places.” Idly twirling a lock of hair around her finger, she takes her time to think about your question. “I don't suppose I have,” she admits, “Truth be told, Miho, I've always been something of a pessimist – I'm not convinced that one person can achieve true greatness. Perhaps long ago, but not these days. I apologise, that must make me sound like a terribly wicked cynic. I don't mean to imply anything unpleasant.”

“I kinda get what you mean,” you muse, “Not saying I agree with you exactly, but I guess I can see where you're coming from. I've got a few other questions, but it's your turn – do your worst!”

“Well then, Miho, perhaps you can answer this,” Kasumi looks you dead in the eye, “This isn't strictly idle conversation, is it? I dare say that you're working towards something, aren't you?”

With her cool eyes fixed onto yours, all you can do is nod. “I'm here with some friends of mine,” you manage at last, “We'll be able to discuss this better with them. Would you like to join us?”

“I rather think I would,” she agrees, giving you a satisfied nod.

[1/2]
>>
>>1563108

Showing Kasumi back to the group, you go over the introductions as quickly as possible. Ayane offers deliberate indifference, Emi just barely conceals her hostility, while Maika has to try very hard to maintain her usual composure. For her part, Kasumi greets everyone with the same calm amusement, as though it was a lofty privilege for her to sit with you.

Then Kurosawa flickers into view on the table, and the smile drops from Kasumi's face.

“Yeah, see, we were planning on playing this subtle,” Ayane sighs, “But so much for that. This is, uh, our boss. He's a magic cat.”

“A god, technically,” Kurosawa corrects her, “One of Earth's native gods, who have protected mankind since its infancy.”

“Yeah, one of those,” Ayane agrees, “But he's also a magic cat.”

“Well!” Kasumi manages, recovering her wits after a few moments, “This is certainly proving to be an interesting meeting!”

-

Between the four of you and Kurosawa, you slowly lay out the details of your life as magical girls. You're careful not to leave anything out, warning Kasumi about the dangers she might face in fighting against the Intruders. She listens intently, a mild frown of concentration creasing her brow – the possibility of wrinkles is, apparently, nothing compared with the deluge of secrets you lay out before her. The others chip in whenever they have something to add, but mostly they stay quiet. Less distractions that way.

“So, uh, that's that,” you finish lamely, “What do you think?”

“Quite frankly, it all sounds rather mad,” Kasumi admits with a slight shrug, “If it wasn't for the fact that you had demonstrable proof of your abilities, I'd write it all off as some middle school fantasy.”

“The talking cat was what swung it for me and all,” Emi agrees, “Can't argue with a talking cat. It's like, the law or something.”

“Be that as it may, there's one thing I'm unclear on,” Kasumi leans forwards on her chair, thoughtfully regarding Kurosawa, “What exactly do I get out of this? The way you describe it, there's a lot of risk and not a lot of benefit. So... how do I stand to gain from taking this deal?”

>It's the right thing to do. The people of this city need protection
>Maybe this way, you'll see that people really can do great things
>You, uh, you get cool powers as well. Kurosawa, tell her about the powers!
>Other
>>
>>1563128
>Maybe this way, you'll see that people, and yourself, really can do great things
>Having superpowers is a nice bonus too.
>>
>>1563128
>You can pet the magical cat.
>>
>>1563128
>Maybe this way, you'll see that people really can do great things
>And you won't have a dull day in your life unfortunately
>>
>>1563128
>Yeah umm about that... Kurosawa, what DO we get?

>I do it for humanies protection, chosen by Sacrifice as I am...
segue into round the table etc.
>>
>>1563169
I agree that we do it to protect people but I don't think we do it because we are chosen by Sacrifice. Miho is just Miho.
>>
“Because maybe this way, you'll see that people really can do great things,” you suggest quietly, your voice calm, “You could do great things too.”

“Are you proposing to change the world, then?” Kasumi replies, her eyes wide and curious, “That seems, if you don't mind me saying, a rather lofty goal even for those with the backing of a god. Do you honestly expect success?”

“Maybe we won't be able to change the world,” you admit, “But we can save lives. A few days ago, Ayane and I saved three people. Three people, Kasumi, that would have died if not for us. They had families and friends, they had entire lives that could have been snuffed out if we hadn't been there for them. If that isn't a great thing, I don't know what is. Great things don't need to be huge and flashy, they don't need to make us famous. Just knowing what we did is enough for me.”

“I must confess, you make a fairly convincing argument for it,” Kasumi concedes, “I may have to adjust my philosophy to take such words into account. However...”

“C'mon, wasn't that enough?” Emi groans, “We're not gonna pay you, if that's what you-”

“There are other benefits,” you continue, cutting Emi's words off, “For one thing, you'll never need to worry about dull days again... unfortunately. If you like novelty, you'd be well suited to this kind of life. There's always something new going on. Plus, the superpowers are a nice bonus. As a general rule, we're all stronger and faster than normal people, and much harder to injure. We all have our own unique gifts as well.”

“Really?” this seems to get Kasumi's attention, causing her to lean a little closer, “That does certainly sound intriguing. Might I ask what sort of gifts you all have?”

“Well, I can tell when someone's lying,” Ayane explains, “So, uh, watch your tongue around me. Maika can do... stuff with drones. Teach them tricks or something, I don't know. Emi, what do you-”

“I can hit stuff really hard,” Emi finishes, shooting you a look of warning, “Ain't flashy, but it sure does the trick.”

“Hmm...” Kasumi leans back, tapping a finger against her lips as she thinks things over.

“Uh... you get a cool costume, I guess?” you offer, not sure what else to tell her, “C'mon Kurosawa, what DO we get?”

“The satisfaction of doing your sacred duty,” Kurosawa answers gravely, “The duty that you were chosen for, born and fated to fulfil.”

“That doesn't really help...” you sigh, “Look, he's got a point. We were all chosen to do this, picked by the gods. We were picked to defend mankind, and that's what I intend to do. C'mon guys, help me out here!”

[1/2]
>>
>>1563187
Kurosawa - master of the sales pitch
>>
>>1563187

“I won't lie, Miss Sato,” Maika offers, “I chose this path because it seemed more interesting than my normal life. That has definitely proven to be true.”

“I signed up to kick a whole lot of ass,” Emi shrugs, “And this job sure didn't disappoint.”

“Do I really have to say? This is going to sound so lame...” Ayane groans, covering her face, “Ugh, fine. I didn't have a single good reason for signing up. It seemed like a good idea at the time, like it might be fun. I was so wrong.”

“Hardly a ringing endorsement, if you don't mind me saying,” Kasumi argues, “Do you regret the choice you made, Ayane?”

“I...” Ayane hesitates, then shrugs, “I don't know. I honestly don't. If I turned Kurosawa down, I'd still know about the Intruders and all that crap. I'd know about it, but I wouldn't be able to do anything about it. Stuff like that, maybe you shrug it off as someone else's problem, but I couldn't. So... I guess I made the right call.”

“Interesting,” the elegant girl murmurs, studying Ayane closely, “That's a very interesting way to look at things.”

“And you can pet a magic cat!” you suggest, “That's a perk, right?”

“Do not use me as a bribe!” Kurosawa snaps, causing Kasumi to giggle softly to herself.

“How could I resist an offer like that?” she decides, “Very well, Miho, I agree to your terms. Ah, but do I need to sign anything? Or do you have some kind of ceremony for this?”

“We need to conclude matters, but it should be done in a more private place,” Kurosawa informs her, “Come. We should not linger here. I can sense something stirring – you may face an Intruder tonight.”

“Hell of a first day on the job...” Emi mutters to herself.

-

Kasumi maintains a solemn silence as she follows you out of Hime, frowning slightly as you lead her into a secluded alleyway. “I should warn you,” you tell her, “The first time you change, it can be pretty painful. It won't kill you or anything, but... well, you should prepare yourself.”

“I'm tougher than I look,” Kasumi replies, “But I appreciate your concern. So, is there anything I should-” Her words break down into a sharp cry as Kurosawa does his thing, unlocking her true potential as the Temptress. Clutching a hand to her chest, Kasumi slumps down to her knees and lets out a low moan of agony. When she slumps forwards and grows limp, you start to reach out for her. Before you can reach her, though, a flash of light drives you back.

Swirling up like something caught in a violent wind, a billowing sheet of glossy velvet hides her from view. The change is a violent one, with a charge of magical power causing your hair to stand on end and a tingle to run across your skin.

Then the curtain vanishes in a flare of light, and Kasumi slowly rises to her feet.

[2/3]
>>
>>1563219

Your first thought, your first object of comparison, is some Arabian fantasy. Kasumi's body is cloaked in strips and scraps of gauzy fabric, leaving much of her bare flesh on display. Gold jewellery glints at her throat, her bare navel, her wrists and ankles, all over her body. A veil covers her eyes, while she holds a tightly coiled whip of braided metal wire in one hand. As you watch, a crackle of electricity runs along its length.

“My, it's rather... revealing, isn't it?” Kasumi manages to gasp, smiling at her own appearance, “I can't say I'd like to wear it in Winter, mind you. What do you all think?”

“Can you, uh, see in that thing?” you ask, “I mean, it kinda covers your eyes...”

“I can see fine,” Kasumi assures you, lifting her veil to reveal faintly glowing eyes, “I can...” Her words trail off here, a smile slowly spreading across her face as she looks between you all. “My my,” she giggles, “You're all VERY interesting people, aren't you?”

“Hey, uh, Miho?” Ayane whispers, dread spreading across her face, “What was her power again?”

“She, uh, she can look into people and read their...” you falter for a moment, “Their, well... their dark and shameful desires.”

“That's it,” Emi decides, “We can't let her leave this alleyway alive. She knows too much.”

“Don't worry, all of you. Please, don't be concerned,” gold bracelets jangle as Kasumi waves your concerns away, “I am the very model of discretion, my lips are sealed. I won't breathe a word of this to anything.” Still smiling, she lets her veil slip back down again. “But really,” she adds slyly “There's nothing to be ashamed about!”

Just what the hell did she see?

-

You can't help but notice an air of uneasy paranoia hanging over your group, even after Kasumi has banished her costume and returned to normal. Seemingly oblivious to the awkward atmosphere, she yawns like a cat and stretches. “So what exactly do we do now?” she asks, “Do we simply wait until trouble rears its ugly face?”

“Pretty much, yeah,” you admit, “But I don't think we'll have long to wait.”

“May we sit down for a moment? I'm rather tired,” your newest colleague asks, “I'm afraid today has been rather draining. I hope that I won't disappoint you, if the worst should happen.”

“If we do have to fight, just let us do the heavy lifting,” you advise, leading Kasumi to some benches, “Just watch what we do and learn.” Sitting down, you stretch the tension out of your shoulders and let out a weary sigh. As much as you'd like to go home and sleep, you can't afford to relax just yet. Kurosawa's warnings are rarely wrong.

>Hey, Kasumi. Can you use your power without your costume?
>You should know, we're not the only ones in this game. You need to know about the Sentinels...
>Why don't we talk a little while we rest? (Write in)
>Other
>>
>>1563269
>>Hey, Kasumi. Can you use your power without your costume?
>>
>>1563269
>Hey, Kasumi. Can you use your power without your costume?
>You should know, we're not the only ones in this game. You need to know about the Sentinels... Don't try to fight them, they are the fucking strong.
>>
>>1563269
>>Hey, Kasumi. Can you use your power without your costume?
That was neat
>>
>>1563269
>>Hey, Kasumi. Can you use your power without your costume?
>>You should know, we're not the only ones in this game. You need to know about the Sentinels...
Our relationship is... complicated. We haven't come to blows yet but things could change.
>>
>>1563269
>>Hey, Kasumi. Can you use your power without your costume?
>>You should know, we're not the only ones in this game. You need to know about the Sentinels...
>>
“Hey, Kasumi?” you ask, “Can you use your power without your costume? I mean, I think the others can...”

“Yeah, I can. I guess it's always on for me,” Ayane confirms, “I dunno if I can turn mine off. Never tried, honestly. Hanging out with these reprobates, it's always useful to have-”

“Yes Ayane, thank you for that,” you sigh, “So, Kasumi – what do you think?”

“No, I can't see anything special. Oh, but please allow me a moment. There is something I'd like to try...” taking a moment to compose herself, Kasumi narrows her eyes in concentration. It's faint, but a dull glow shines out from behind her eyes. As it brightens, the sly smile returns to her face. “Well, that certainly worked!” she announces, blinking and wiping away the glow, “It appears as though I just need to concentrate on someone, and... well, I can learn all manner of things about them!”

“All... manner of things?” you ask, dreading whatever answer she might give you.

“Not just shameful desires. It's a little tricky, but I think I can uncover all sorts of secrets – anything that someone doesn't want to accept or acknowledge,” giggling, Kasumi covers her mouth with a delicate hand, “Why, it's a good thing I don't see these things all the time, I could go mad!”

“Please use this power responsibly,” you tell Kasumi, a faint note of desperation sneaking into your voice despite your best efforts, “Please.”

“I have only the most noble of intentions,” the elegant girl assures you, “Really, you're all getting worked up over nothing!”

Glancing around the group, you don't see a single convinced face. “Ah, well, uh... moving on,” you insist, “You should know, we're not the only ones in this game. There's another group, one that calls themselves “the Sentinels”. We've got a... complicated relationship. We haven't come to blows yet, but that could change pretty quickly. If you meet them, don't try to antagonise them – they're seriously strong.”

“I did wonder if there might be other factions involved here,” Kasumi nods slowly, “Would you mind telling me about them? If an encounter is likely, or even possible, I'd like to know about who I might be dealing with.”

Taking a moment to put your thoughts in order, you lower your voice and begin to tell Kasumi about the shadowy organisation. She listens intently, her expression unreadable.

[1/2]
>>
>>1563330

“I must say,” she replies when your story is finished, “There is one part which I'm not entirely clear on. Do you think you could explain something to me?”

“Go ahead and ask,” you tell her, “I'll answer if I can.”

“Why exactly are the relations between our two groups so poor?” Kasumi asks, “It seems as though we have the same motivation, and they could offer significant amounts of resources. By pooling our efforts, we could achieve far more, and we wouldn't have to worry about whether or not to consider them an enemy.” Frowning a little, she taps a finger against her lips. “I don't mean to question your actions. Clearly, you have more experience with these people than I do,” she continues, “But this... tension seems to be largely baseless.”

“Crow threw a knife at Miho,” Maika points out, “I rather think that's good evidence for being wary.”

“True, I won't deny that,” Kasumi concedes, “But, as I understand it, that came later – after the ill will was already established. Something must have caused this rift to form.”

Honestly, her question does leave you a little uncertain. From day one, your relationship with the Sentinels had been founded on mutual distrust, and things only worsened from there. Had that rift been inevitable, or could you have found common ground with the group? Is it too late to change anything now?

Before you can consider the matter any further, Maika's phone chimes. “That's probably Father,” she sighs, “He may have learned about that fiasco with the Public Morals Committee. He won't be happy with-” Her sentence is cut sharply off, her lips tightening into a hard line. “Intruder,” she declares sharply, “It's in the Kohryu Reclamation Centre, located-”

“Fuck!” Emi swears, “My folks work there, fuck! We... shit, we gotta get over there NOW!”

“It's outside of the city,” Maika stresses, “We can't just walk-”

“There's a... a fucking tram, I don't know what you'd call it. It runs from the city to the factory. Automated, runs like fucking clockwork!” the young girl grabs you by the sleeve, “Come ON Miho, we gotta go!”

“I can handle this,” Kasumi assures you, rising to her feet, “I'm ready, Miho.”

“Pulling up directions to the station now,” the heiress murmurs to herself, tapping at her phone, “We can make the next tram if we hurry.”

“So let's hurry, then!” you stress, already up and moving out, “There's no time to waste!”

>I need to take a short break here, so the next post may be slightly late. I apologise for the delay.
>>
>>1563357
Wait a minute. A crow with an artificial arm.
Is it a reference to what I think it is?
>>
>>1563357
Can't the rich and powerful heiress wrangle us a car? Call a driver to meet us, rent one, buy one, or use her machine affinity to hack one?

Gotta go fast.
>>
>>1563400
PRIVATE JET

but no, probably not on such short notice
>>
>>1563368
Regarding Crow, I think she gave us a hint towards bonding with her. Talking about how hard England has it with the cold, hunger, and oppressive government. About how our attitude would get us a beating where she grew up, implying she had her fair share of those - especially given her attitude.

Maybe next time we see her we can ask about it. Like, just honestly tell her that it seems like she went through some hard times even without the whole magical girl/intruder thing. We know we've had our own struggles but we've also had a safe place to go back to after all so it's not really the same if she didn't.

Ask about what she thinks of having a safe place, is it just a risk that you'll lose it or have it used against you, or if it's necessary to strive for it both to have a reason to fight but also to help keep yourself attached to the world as a good guy.

I want to know what she thinks about Gods. We're definitely on the fence a little with them. Kurosawa is sketchy enough and he's arguably trying to do what's best in his way, but his thinking is alien and he sometimes hurts us because of it let alone the rest of them doing who knows what where. Does she think they should be worshipped, ignored, used, fought? Does she resent them for not saving her before, or even after? I mean we lost our sister because of them AND we're apparently a sacrifice. What about Monad, another "God", made by man, but maybe even more alien than the others.

Like. Not even trying to convert her or anything. She just seems like she'd be worth listening to, although we would have to remember she would probably try to use us or manipulate us.

She does seem like she would want to talk, or more accurately lecture.
>>
There's something perverse about this, something absurd and insulting. After running hard to make the tram – Kasumi had to fight out of her high-heeled shoes to keep up with you – you only just managed to board it in time. Maika's drone was waiting for you at the tram station, and the heiress tucked it under her arm just before the doors slid shut. A few of the other passengers gave you odd glances as you collapsed down into some of the empty seats, but you barely noticed them.

And then the tram started to move – slowly. Every iota of momentum that you had built up on the sprint here deflates in an instant, leaving you with nothing to do but wait and stare out the windows. Meanwhile, at your destination, the Intruder could be doing whatever it likes.

The real insult comes a short while after the tram starts along its programmed route, with Kurosawa's voice echoing in your head.

“Everyone, I've detected an Intruder,” he rasps, “It's located in the-”

“Kohryu Reclamation Centre,” you think back to him, “We know. We're heading there now.”

“Oh,” Kurosawa pauses, “Carry on then.”

“Pardon me, Miho,” Kasumi asks, leaning close so that she can whisper to you, “Can he speak directly into our minds? If we answer him in the same way, does that mean he can read our thoughts?”

“Only when we deliberately think to him,” you reply, shifting back a little and trying to ignore the light scent of her perfume, “It's weird, I know. You get used to it. Just... do what comes naturally. Trust your instincts, that sort of thing.”

“I see,” a faint note of relief surfaces in Kasumi's eyes, “I'd hate for someone to be able to read my thoughts.”

The blatant hypocrisy of those words seems lost on her.

-

“God, what a pain in the ass!” Ayane groans as the tram rattles onwards, “Public transport... Hey Maika, couldn't you have called for a car or something?”

“It wouldn't get us there any quicker,” the heiress counters, frustration gnawing at her voice, “A car would have to reach us, then head out this way. With all factors taken into account, the tram was the most efficient-”

“Ugh, whatever!” Ayane groans, throwing her hands up in the air, “Little Queen Starlight never had to wait for the bloody bus!”

“Little Queen Starlight?” Kasumi repeats slowly, “Is that a... colleague of yours?”

“You don't know about-” before Ayane can say much more than that, the tram begins to slow. Your journey, it seems, is at an end.

[1/2]
>>
>>1563443

When the tram finally arrives at its destination – the journey took less than half an hour, but it felt like so much longer – your group hurries out, leaving the bemused passengers to amble behind you. When the last of them has wandered off, Maika sets her drone down in a patch of empty ground.

“I'm getting a LOT of readings,” she warns, as the drone's rotors start to whirr, “Thralls, but there's a large number of them and more of them keep showing up. I can track them to their source, but that doesn't help with the ones already here. We don't have time to waste here. Emi, you mentioned coming here before...”

“Yeah, fuck, uh...” Emi, her face pale and sweaty, flounders for a moment, “Right. Night shift. There won't be many people here, but like... still a whole bunch. This is SO fucked, I just...”

“You need to focus,” the heiress urges, “SAE can't find a complete map of this facility, that means I'm going to need you to tell me everything you can about it. Slow down, take a breath, and think. Doing this efficiently will be better than rushing off and blundering through it. Do you understand?”

“Yeah, I... I get you,” Emi bites her lip hard, clenching her fists tightly as she thinks. “Tunnels!” she cries out, “Like... tunnels and little side corridors, it's like a maze in the lower levels. If an Intruder gets down there... shit, the bastard could hide forever, grab anyone who went down there. We need to search the whole...”

“No we don't,” Ayane interrupts, “I can do it. My dog can sniff the Intruders out, hunt them right down. It'll be quicker than fumbling about looking for them, and you guys can focus on the source.” Frowning hard, she grabs you by the arm. “I can DO this Miho,” she stresses, “Trust me!”

>I trust you, Ayane. Sweep those tunnels clear for us
>No, we're not splitting up. We'll all handle the tunnels later
>You can go, but you're not going alone. Someone should go with you... (Who?)
>Other
>>
>>1563418
She could call Bradley, her private Driver and Batman. The job not the super hero. She probably has access to enough funds to call a cab, if there's a problem with her renting a vehicle. Although that she could probably do with the weight of her name alone plus some money to smooth things over. She could probably grab a random person and just offer them enough money to drive them there. She could possibly grab a Cop even and convince him that there was an urgent matter that while not life threatening could cause a lot of damage and she needs to be there to stop it. Company secrets keep it discreet but it would be a service to the city and the Kanzaki family would be appreciative of his service.

Finally she has her machine affinity. I don't know the average tech level that precisely but it seems advanced from ours somewhat and our cars already have computers controlling them.

Just tossing out options. Money and influence is a huge tool to be used, her concern would be having to explain it to her father if he found out. Which could be for the best really if we're against the Sentinels, especially if he's a possible target. Forewarned is forearmed.
>>
>>1563449
>You can go, but you're not going alone. Someone should go with you... (Who?)
>Emi
Emi knows the tunnels right?
>>
>>1563357
>Something must have caused this rift to form.
It couldn't be as simple as Karl being salty we talked shit back at him is it? Crow said her orders came from the 'top' too.

>>1563429
I agree. A one on one with her as our magical girl senpai might be good. I also want to learn her story from Kurosawa too so we can cross examine the two.

A one on one with Jun might be prudent as well.
>>
>>1563455
>>1563449
Seconded
>>
>>1563449
And my transport plans are neatly sidestepped.

>You can go, but you're not going alone. Someone should go with you... (Who?)

Maika to help scout and use her robots to prevent Ayane from getting ambushed while hunting, or if they run into !or trouble than they can handle. Maika also seems to be good at situational awareness so while Ayane hunts Thralls Maika can organize evacuation for people down there.

That leaves us and Emi as the heavy hitters to take on the leader or source, and our mad defense skills to protect Kasumi on her first time. Also she can hopefully pick out the Bosses weaknes.
>>
>>1563455
>>1563475

Emi is more valuable for fighting big targets and isn't good with situational awareness. And while she knows the tunnels, she doesn't know where the Intruders are.

But she might know where people will be if the focus is on getting them out. Then again Maika can check multiple places with her drones.
>>
>>1563458
AI schizophrenia? A God needs a Devil, as Virtues need sins yes? What happens if an outsider is consumed by an aI?
>>
>>1563449
>No, we're not splitting up. We'll all handle the tunnels later
Concentration of force, anons. Let's handle the portal first, then hunt down the stragglers at our leisure.
>>
>>1563449
Does Emi know the tunnels? Or just that they're there?
>>
>>1563495
I'll back this instead if we can tell Ayane that it's because WE need her to help close the portal first. Stop the flow of Intruders before hunting them down.

And hope this doesn't lead to dead parents
>>
>>1563429
In my experience, when people say "your attitude would get you a beating where I grew up", they don't usually mean "it got me one". They state their allegiance to whoever would deliver the beating.
>>
>>1563449
>I trust you, Ayane. Sweep those tunnels clear for us
>>
>>1563449
>>1563499
Shit, I forgot about the people here. Changing my vote at >>1563495 to
>Send Ayane to search for and evacuate innocents
>>
>>1563449
Actually I'll leave my vote to QM call. If anyone else supports Maika goong with Ayane that's my main preference.

If Emi knows the tunnels and can help save more people then I'll back that.

If she doesn't then I'll back keeping together and closing the portal asap
>>
>>1563505
Can I persuade you to back sending Maika to search for people while Ayane hunts Intruders?
>>
>>1563507
ugh don't leave it to the qm. voting is literally the only reason you exist.

Ayane needs this, she's been very unconfident lately. Also Emi will be pretty missed if her parents die because we picked the slow way. Kasumi might duck out if that happens on her first night.
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>>1563449
>You can go, but you're not going alone. Someone should go with you
Miho should go. The other two's weapons aren't suited toward cramped quarters, and Kasumi is too new.
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>>1563503
From Crowes attitude and explanation of her homeland I feel like she got a lot of beatings.

Have you never been to a military state? I feel that Crowe was pointing out that we were assuming we could talk back to someone with more "power" because we grew up in a place that allowed it. She was calling us out on our bravado because if she chose to give us a beating we couldn't stop her.

Let me assure you, you do not mouth off to Thai cops.
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>Okay, sorry about this. Closing the vote here and rechecking everything. Thank you for your patience, hopefully shouldn't take too long.
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>>1563510
>>1563449

Fine. I stand by sending Ayane and Maika. It was just when it looked like there weren't going to be a lot of votes I didn't want a deadlock, and I didn't know how well Emi actually knows the tunnels.
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>>1563455
>>1563475
Ayane + Emi

>>1563476
>>1563520
Ayane and Maika

>>1563504
>>1563505
Ayane alone

>>1563495
Don't split the party.

So it looks like a three way to regarding who to send with Ayane.

Maika would also probably keep Ayane in check if she got too eager to prove herself.
>>
In case it is a tie, I'll toss my lot in with maika going with Ayane.
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>>1563545
me too.
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>>1563547
>>1563545
Huzzah tactics! I always worry I'll spend to long explaining my vote and miss the chance to convince people.
>>
“Alright, good call. I want you to go sweep those tunnels clear,” you tell Ayane, “But I don't want you going down there alone. Emi, you know the layout of this place, right?”

“The tunnels? I mean... shit, I know them about as well as anyone does,” Emi replies, shaking her head in disgust, “Ran about in them when I was younger, I guess, so I've got more of an idea than anyone else here. Doesn't make them any less of a maze though. You want me to go with her?”

All too aware of the seconds ticking away, you pinch your brow and think hard. “No, stay out of those tunnels. That sword of yours wouldn't be much good down there anyway, if they're as narrow as you say. Maika, you go – your drone can help with searching out any Intruders, and find if there's any people down there,” you decide, giving your orders in a clipped tone, “Emi, I want you to-”

“Hey, my folks are in there!” Emi protests, “And you're sending HER? I want to go!”

“And I want you to help me gut the bastard that's causing all of this,” you tell her firmly, “You're not going to back down from a fight, are you?”

“...No,” she snarls, her shoulders slumping slightly, “But Princess, if you fuck this up...”

“I should be able to handle the tunnels,” Maika agrees, “I dare say that Kurosawa can lead you to the portal. It's a large sheet of polished metal, located in a fenced off area outside. You'll be going in with just Kasumi?”

“Hey, I've been in worse scrapes before,” you reply with a deliberately nonchalant shrug, “Now come on, we've wasted enough time already. Ladies, you've all got your orders, so let's jump to it!”

Just as the group is scattering, Ayane glances your way and gives you a firm nod of thanks.

-

Exactly as Maika described it, the portal is visible through a tall wire fence, swirling and churning in the surface of a metal panel. As you watch, something that looks like a wasp – or the general idea of a wasp – worms its way out of the portal and falls wetly to the ground. Filmy wings buzz into life as the Thrall crawls, lifting it up into lurching hops rather than true flight.

“I despise insects,” Kasumi murmurs to herself as you summon your costume, “I loathe them, and... Miho, where's your costume?”

Gritting your teeth in frustration, you channel the familiar anger into a leap, clearing the tall fence in a single bound. Kasumi is not so lucky, shedding a good amount of her dignity as she scrabbles up it and drops heavily down on the other side. A terrible scowl, as though all of her features were twisted out of shape, crosses her face as she rises, although the dark expression is quickly banished.

“I hope you've got a strong stomach,” you warn her, “These portals can be pretty harsh.”

[1/2]

>I apologise for the delay
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>>1563647

>Sorry, a clarification. Emi is going through the portal with us, I just missed some bits in editing. She'll be joining us properly in the next post.
>>
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>>1563647

To her credit, Kasumi barely flinches upon arriving in the Umbra. Her lips part in a soft gasp of amazement – or perhaps horror – but her resolve does not break. Consider the sight that greets you, it's quite an achievement. In place of the usual crooked buildings that these parts of the Umbra so often have, there are looming mountains of garbage, great overflowing piles that list precariously around you. Every so often, something will fall from the milky sky and crash down into one pile, causing it to shift and settle. It's... something new.

It's not the only new thing, either. The Collapsed Star Knuckles have changed as well, taking on a new form now that your new powers have been unsealed. The gauntlets have taken on a more industrial look, with great articulated pistons mounted on the backs. The massive reserves of power stored within them...

You're looking forwards to testing these out.

“Pardon me for asking,” Kasumi mentions, “But what's that noise?”

“That's probably just Emi throwing up,” you reply, “She's... wait, no, I hear it too.” A frown crosses your face as you strain your ears. There's a buzzing noise drifting from up ahead, low and menacing. “More of those wasp things,” you guess, “A whole lot of them. A whole hive.”

“I thought bees had hives, not wasps,” Emi mumbles, raising the visor of her helmet to wipe a trace of spit from her chin, “Or... man, I don't give a shit.”

“I don't think monsters from the depths of the Umbra conform to normal natural laws,” you mutter, waving for Kasumi to stick close.

-

What you find at the end of the winding trail of garbage is not an Intruder, but a hollow spire of rock. The spire is studded with holes, and another one of those loathsome wasps wriggles free as you approach. Flopping to the ground, it starts to hop and buzz, flecks of clear liquid flying from its wings.

“Perhaps we should study it for a moment, see if we can find a weakness?” Kasumi suggests, “I dare say that if we rouse it-”

“You little bastard!” Emi yells, charging out from behind the pile of trash and swinging her massive sword down upon the newly born wasp. It burst, explodes really, when the blade hits. When it dies, a shrill squeal pierces the air. As you gasp in pain, clapping your hands to your ears, countless scores of wasps boil out of the spire.

“And now we're in trouble,” Kasumi sighs, letting her whip unfurl to its full length, “Marvellous...”

>Focus on burning the wasps, order Emi to attack the hive
>Crush the hive. This won't end until it's been destroyed
>Stick close to Kasumi, keep the wasps away from her
>Other
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>>1563708
Advance together towards to Give whilst laying down fire on all wasps that approach.

Once close armor break the Hive and then have Emi slash.
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>>1563708
>Focus on burning the wasps, order Emi to attack the hive
>Thunderclap if they get too close.
We're the only ones with AoE, so let's utilise it.
>Stick close to Kasumi, keep the wasps away from her

Our gauntlets are getting closer to their ultimate form - Power Klaw!
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>>1563708
>Focus on burning the wasps, order Emi to attack the hive
I was thinking Thunderclap when the wasps get close and then setting things on fire. Can't remember if it has a long range enough to get all or most of the wasps, but it sounds decent enough that it's worth a try.
As for the hive, it's a big rock but Emi should be able to handle it.
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>>1563708
>>1563734
This
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>>1563708
>Focus on burning the wasps, order Emi to attack the hive

I assume Kasumi is either going to be hanging back or a natural
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>>1563708
Thunderclap to stun masses, then have Emi sweep if she can. Let Kasumi single target or sweep as instinct says.

Try to get in close when the wasps are stunned to pour fire into the tunnels of the hive, then back off quickly before the wasps recover. If the others can cover, then that'll be even better.
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>>1563755
Oh right, with Kasumi's whip she could probably whirl it around and take some out while she gets used to the feel of it. Assuming she doesn't already have such experience.
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>>1563708
Actually, can Kasumi cover us with her whip while we Shatter Armor on the Hive and then have Emi hit it? Maybe with the flat of her blade to shatter it instead of cutting it? Then we can Thunderclap if we need to pull back.
>>
>>1563775
>>1563775kasumi doesn't even need to kill the wasps, just fend them off.
>>
“We need to hit that hive!” you call out, pointing to the spire of rock to make your point well and truly clear. It seems impossible that so many of the Thralls could have been lurking within it – and, considering the insane physics of the Umbra, it might be impossible indeed – but the numbers just don't seem to diminishing. No matter how many scurry out to die, two more seem ready to join the fight.

“Loathsome things!” Kasumi snaps, lashing out with her whip as if she had experience in such things. The braided metal tip strikes one of the wasps with a flare of discharging power, causing it to drop, twitching, to the ground. Crying out in revulsion, she stamps down on it, over and over again until it stops moving. “We're being overwhelmed!”

For a moment, just a split second, you freeze. This all feels so familiar, so reminiscent of fighting the queen's tentacles alongside Ayane. It always comes down to this, overwhelming numbers of the bastards...

“No!” you scream, thrusting your hands up into the air and letting twin streams of fire burst forth from your knuckles, “We won't fail! Kasumi, you get behind me! Emi, strike when you see an opening!”

“Got it boss!” Emi yells back, leaping up and swatting one of the wasps from the air, “But what fucking opening?”

“The opening I'm going to-” you grunt, ducking low as a burning wasp flies over your head. Before it can escape, Kasumi flicks her whip out and seizes it, smashing the wasp down to earth. “Brace yourselves,” you warn the others, “Thunderclap!” Yelling out the name of your attack, you slap the palms of your hands together in an almighty blow, casting out a wave of force – almost a solid wall in its intensity. When it strikes them, the shockwave knocks the wasps from the air. Just as they're starting to recover, Emi strikes.

“Track four,” she snarls, drawing back to swing her blade, “Sword of the Giants!” Just for one brief moment, just as she swings, the ghostly image of a far greater sword – a truly massive weapon – is overlaid upon her weapon. It might look hollow, but the image cleaves through the wasps nonetheless. In one fell swoop, Emi has cleared a path straight to the hive. “You see that?” she cheers to you, “You SEE that shit?”

“I see it!” you reply, “Now let's finish this! Kasumi, stick close to me and I'll keep them off you!”

“And I'll keep them away from you,” she counters, “We'll do this together!”

The reprieve is short lived, with new wasps already worming their way free from the hive. Spraying the rocky spire down with flame, you force them back for a few more seconds, just long enough for you throw yourself up against the tower. Above your shoulder, a newly emerged wasp shrieks once before Kasumi snares it with her whip, pulling it away and hurling it into the distance.

“Miho,” she sings, “Do it now!”

[1/2]
>>
>>1563861

Pressing the flat of one palm against the rock, you concentrate for a moment and trigger your newest magic. Like the worst case of cramp you've ever felt, a pulse of energy builds at the top of your arm. It only lasts a second at most, but that second draws out for an eternity. When the gathering energy reaches its climax, the pistons building into your gauntlet slam forwards with an explosive burst of power. The ground heaves and trembles, while a lunatic spiderweb of cracks run across the rocky spire. When you rip your hand free, the rock shatters.

Without its stone outer hide, the spire is a thick pillar of writhing flesh, countless maggots squirming and swelling beneath its transparent skin. Crying out in disgust, you look back over your shoulder and start to yell Emi's name.

Before you've even finished calling it out, Emi streaks over your head, swinging her sword in a decapitating stroke. Howling with fury, she cleaves the fleshy spire in half before landing in a clumsy roll. Laughing aloud, you turn back to the ruined spire. Buried deep in the meaty core, a flabby wasp, the queen, squeals helplessly at you.

“Massive Strike!” you snarl, drawing back your arm for one final punch.

-

“Uh, Miho?” Emi asks, a few short moments later, “You've got wasp on you.”

“Do I?” you sigh, “I thought I had it all. Uh...”

“Hold still,” Kasumi tuts, taking the end of your scarf and mopping your face with it. “There we go,” she says, nodding with satisfaction when she's done, “You're actually quite nice looking, when you're not splattered with blood and guts.”

“Gaaaaaaaay,” Emi jeers, “C'mon, we better get back to the real world. Make sure the Princess help up her side of the bargain.” Resting her massive sword on one shoulder, she starts to stroll back to the portal.

“So, am I correct in saying that these things can come through any reflective surface?” Kasumi asks as you start to follow Emi back, “Oh, how awful! I had a lovely mirror in my room, a full length dressing mirror. I won't be able to sleep with it around – I'll have to take a hammer to the beastly thing as soon as I get home!”

“You'd better not,” you warn her, “That's seven years of bad luck.”

-

When you return to reality, you find Ayane and Maika waiting for you, their faces grim. The good cheer you had felt withers as the silence draws out longer and longer.

“I'm sorry,” Maika murmurs, putting a solemn hand on Emi's shoulder, “But you're going to have to put up with your parents for a while longer.”

“You...” Emi splutters, looking as though she's about to kick Maika right in the shin. Then, barking out a mad laugh, she throws her arms around the heiress in a firm hug. “You bitch!” she laughs, “You utter bitch!”

Ayane chuckles, meeting your eyes and giving you a smile of pure gratitude.

Today, you're heroes.

[2/3]
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>>1563923

Los Angeles, America
Present Day, Present Time

Ark City.

Megumi had been thinking, brooding, really, on this ever since Abraham – Kurosawa, she corrected herself, that's what he called himself – had visited her. Noriko had been born there, before her family left for uncertain reasons. It was often in the news, with all manner of wild rumours and lurid accusations flying around. The wider world could never quite make its mind up about Ark City, with governments all around the world regarding it with something akin to suspicion or even fear.

Ark City. Sometimes called the first true corporate city-state of the modern age, it occupied a unique position in the world. With no formal ties to outside governments or organisations, the ruling corporations in Ark City were free to flout whatever treaties or regulations they liked. Technologies banned or heavily restricted in the outside world – artificial intelligence research chief among them – were freely experimented with, with varying results. For some, Ark City was a shining vision of the future – environmentally friendly and forward thinking – but for others, it had come to represent the worst of corporate excess.

Frankly, Megumi didn't care much about the politics of it. The city itself, though...

Kurosawa called it a blasphemy. Megumi could see why – he had always been a traditionalist at heart, and he had never made much attempt at hiding it. Once, in a rare moment when he let his guard down, he spoke fondly about ancient days – days when men and the gods lived side by side. Men were humble in those days, apparently, they knew their place. Megumi never did get around to asking about what that “place” was.

“Everything has its place,” Megumi murmured aloud, looking up at the ceiling as she did so, “That's what you always said, right Noriko? Everything has its place, and it's a virtue to stay in that place. Don't make waves, go with the flow... right?”

There was, of course, no answer.

“Well, I think I've spent too long going with the flow,” she decided, slipping out her phone and tapping away at the screen, “It's about time I made a few waves, see what happens...”

A few more taps, and Megumi had everything that she had been looking for. Rising from the desk, she turned away and started to pack her few belongings. For a few moments before it darkened and turned off, the phone's screen displayed a list of details.

Everything that Megumi would need for a journey to Ark City.

>I think I'll end things here for this week. I'll continue this next Friday, and if anyone has any questions I'll answer them as best I can.
>Thank you for your patience today!
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>>1563933
Thanks for running, Moloch!
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>>1563933
>men and the gods lived side by side. Men were humble in those days, apparently, they knew their place
Do I spy someone in need of a Wanderer?
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>>1563933
Thanks for running!

How long before Crow reveals her arm contains a nuclear bomb?
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>>1563933
WORRY
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>>1563933
Thanks for running Moloch. Guess we'll have a new friend soon enough.
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>>1563964

Well, that was more of an accidental reference. It took me a while to figure out myself. Either way, I can confirm that Crow is pretty unlikely to get her hands on any nuclear weapons!
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>>1564000
You never know with these ancient conspiracies backed by megacorporations unaccountable to anyone.
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>>1563933
Wow Maika actually made a decent joke. I wonder how much Ayane helped her with that.

Thanks for running Moloch.

We really do need to get to the bottom of this schism on how the Sentinel's treat us. Talking with Crow or Jun on our terms would be a good start.




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