>>3927372
With the admittedly dicey situation from the other day, Izumi’s sitting quiet while her would-be recruiters are busy worrying about the random dead girl- not the best result, by any means, but as Lorelei had groused to you later, she hadn’t really seen any alternative that didn’t risk the fact that there’s three players in the game, not two out. They were close by, she wouldn’t have had time to hide the body, and in general she felt she made the best of a bad situation. As far as you’re concerned, anything that means you don’t have any reason to get spotted by Okada’s people is fine, and you just know that they’re on the lookout for anyone remotely suspicious now. The murder was indeed news, and the girl was identified: Ayano, seventeen, went to a different high school than where Izumi’s going, but was considered a nice girl, if quiet and largely keeping to herself. Nothing particular about her.

Best thing about it, though, is ‘no suspects’. Although many are wondering about ‘The Vigilante’ that’s been going about the city so far.

To your honest surprise, the current public feelings around the situation?

Apathy. Largely shit like ‘probably deserved it’ or ‘sucks for her’. Very little in the way of support or grief or anything. Granted, there’s a lot of assholes out there, but even you can tell that the ratio of sympathy to unsympathetic is a bit...skewed. Wonder if this is the doing of all the Despair magic...would make sense.

“Right-o, so this is the place, I’m pretty sure,” Lorelei says as you shake yourself out of your thoughts. The Ryomeki Grand Arena, standing in a hexagonal shape, its red ‘bladed’ outcroppings normally for style looking oddly sinister in the gloom, especially contrasted to the normally shining white the rest of the building has. It’s their local general purpose venue, currently serving as the backdrop for the big fight tonight. “Wanna go ahead and get our seats?” You nod. Might as well.

“Excuse me!” a voice says; you’re at first assuming that it’s not at you...until you hear rapid footsteps and and see someone with a microphone jogging towards you. “Sorry to interject, but I’m with Channel 7 Sports Worldwide, and we’re covering the MMA match between the undefeated Yuu Mitsukoshi and Zoe Gathers, live! Mind if I ask your opinions on the upcoming match? Any favorites between you two?”

Lorelei’s eyes immediately flick to you in question as you quickly decide how to respond…

> “Sorry, I’m not good with press.” Walk away as quick as possible.
> “I find Ms. Mitsukoshi interesting and will be watching her closely.”
> “Ms. Gathers seems as though she might have what it takes.”
> Other

>>3927375
>“Sorry, I’m not good with press.” Walk away as quick as possible.
Let's not be seen on public as much as possible please.

>>3927375
>> “Ms. Gathers seems as though she might have what it takes.”

>>3927375
> Other
Walk away and pretend you don't know a single word of Japanese. Unless they're asking in English then.
> “Sorry, I’m not good with press.” Walk away as quick as possible.

Holy hell that picture is a blast to the past. My anatomy skill was atrocious compared to what it is now, look at how long Lori was.

>>3927375
> “Sorry, I’m not good with press.” Walk away as quick as possible.

>>3927409
I've saved every picture made.

>>3927422
Big thanks, appreciate it. Been busy for a while but I should be able to deliver some more after 19th.

You ever tried making a model of them yourself?

"No comment."

Writing.

>>3927375
>>3927402
>>3927409
>>3927421
“Sorry,” you say as you turn away, doing your best to affect shyness. You’d rather not risk anyone getting to know your face. “I-I’m not really good with press.”

“Oh, yeah, sorry, we really have to go!” Credit to Lorelei, she immediately steps in afterwards to support the idea, putting her arm around you and helping lead you away as you both fast-walk in the other direction, ignoring her plaintive call.
“Right, let’s not deal with the media right now,” Lorelei says half-jokingly. “I look horrible.”

“You’re fine,” you say without thinking about it. “Let’s just get to our seats.”

From there on, it’s just the two of you sitting and talking for a while before fight time; when Lorelei brings up a salient question. “Say...so what’s the plan for this? Are we just gonna scout her out? Or like...something else? Afterwards, I mean.”

> “We’re just here to watch and see some of what she can do.”
> “I wonder if we can’t catch her backstage, actually. Just to talk, though.”
> “It WOULD be hard to catch her in such a vulnerable position again…
> Other

(Sorry, net troubles. AGAIN.)

>>3927603
> “We’re just here to watch and see some of what she can do.”
They're on the guard after yesterday. Best to not make any risky acts at the moment.

>>3927603
Okay I'm worried that You (who is a blantant cheater) already have magical enhancing buffs already on. If we seek her out, it would alarm bells on her end.

> “We’re just here to watch and see some of what she can do.”

>>3927603
>“We’re just here to watch and see some of what she can do.”

>>3927603
>“We’re just here to watch and see some of what she can do.”

>>3927603
> “We’re just here to watch and see some of what she can do.”

>>3927603
>> “We’re just here to watch and see some of what she can do.”

>>3927603
>> “It WOULD be hard to catch her in such a vulnerable position again…

>>3927603
>>3927608
>>3927612
>>3927615
>>3927616
>>3927617
>>3927621
You shake your head in the negative. “We’re just here to watch and see some of what she can do. No reason to shake the hornet’s nest more than it already has been.”

“Makes sense,” she agrees, before she lowers her voice. “I’m wondering how someone cottoned on that there was even anything HAPPENING back there, y’know? Did they know from the get go or what?” Very good question. Definitely something to worry about. Their surveillance abilities have to be comprehensive, but with some gaps, otherwise you’d have been found out by now, so…

Before you can think on that much longer, the lights dim. Seems like it’s fight time.

“LLLLLADIES AAAAND GENTLEMEEN!” the announcer blares. “AAARE YOU READY FOR SOME FIGHT ACTION!?” The crowd roars its approval toward the violence as the introductions are made and they begin the first match- Yuu and Zoe being the main event, naturally.

The majority of them aren’t bad; for normal humans it’s actually fairly entertaining to see a straight up brawl, and you have to admit that you find the showcase more interesting than normal; particularly the young, bronze warrior of a girl from South America that won with an INCREDIBLY risky, but entirely unexpected butterfly kick to the skull that dropped her challenger outright.

“Hey, you’re gettin’ into this, huh?” Lorelei says with a grin. “Goodness knows you need some release- been cooped up for about a week, haven’t you?” She’s not wrong…

“AAAND NOW! THE MAIN EVENT!” the announcer yells once the ring has been cleared and cleaned once more.

>Roll 1d100, best of three.

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>3927713

Rolled 54 (1d100)

>>3927713

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>3927713

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>3927713

Interesting.

Writing.

>>3927771
I hope Yuu lose this match.

Say can we *slip* something on Yuu that she won't notice? Like making a certain area a little slippery? It doesn't target her and her alarm bells would not trigger.

>>3927713
>>3927718
>>3927719
>>3927720
Some sort of tribal rock music starts playing as they cue up the fighters. Zoe Gathers comes out first- a buzzcut, lean muscled figure, tanned, with a large, winding tattoo around her upper left arm. She seems as though she’s got a lot of experience, for certain. Very serious, too; she spares no real effort to play to the crowd aside from a single wave and a nod, before she gets into the ring and loosening up.

And then a thumping, J-rock theme starts blaring as the crowd goes wild. “AAAAND NOW! YOUR CHAMPION!” Who cheats. “AT 172 CM, AND 67 KILOGRAMS! THE UNASSAILABLE! THE UNSTOPPABLE! THE UNRELENTING TIGRESS, MITSUKOSHI YUUUUU!”

Huh. She’s...well, she’s something, that’s what you can say. With brown hair in a bob cut, red and black trunks and top, and a confident glint in her eye, the target you know as Yellow Knight steps out, hands raised and gleefully soaking in the adulation as she yells something unintelligible to them. Lorelei, for her part, snorts lightly. “Talk about polar opposites,” she mutters. You silently agree.

She hops into the cage, throwing around a few punches for play and taking a small lap around; before she slows, nearly to a stop as she passes where you are, on the far end of the cage. You’re not sure how many other notice, but she nearly jerks for some reason as she turns around, gripping the cage itself and using it to stretch.

She’s also looking around, almost as though confused, though she’s trying to hide it. She switches positions, still using the cage- and for a moment her eyes lock on you, almost with confusion. Then her gaze shifts to Lorelei...before shifting onto the person to the left of you, and for a few moments, her eyes dart around, before shifting back to you. She suddenly grows a small grin as her eyes connect with you, before slapping the cage in apparently excitement and turning around as the announcer calls for the both of them to begin the final rule explanations. Lorelei immediately leans in. “What was that?!” she whispers.

“Not sure,” you mutter, “but I’ve got a suspicion, and I don’t like it.”

(cont)

>>3927930
It’s then that the bell rings, and the fight starts. At first, Gathers seems like she’s performing well enough- she’s spacing shots, and landing a few kicks, even- not that they seem to be affecting Yellow Knight any, which doesn’t surprise you. She moves in for a strike, feinting once with the right hand and unleashing with the left, only for Mitsukoshi to slip it in a bob and not even bother retaliating, instead backing off. Gathers pursuits, and it’s another brief moment of measuring each other before she goes for a gutshot; this is deflected and Mitsukoshi retaliates with a shot to the chin that scrapes off but still causes her to retreat, clearly sensing the power behind it.

“...ugh. She’s not even trying,” Lorelei moans.

You just sigh, because it’s obvious that she isn’t. She’s moving far too confidently; and the shots that Gathers ARE landing are very clearly being allowed to do so- a stunt meant to show off her resilience, you guess.

Then Gathers comes up with a piston kick that gets caught- and Gathers suddenly leaps up, and swings with her other foot.

>Roll 1d100, best of 3. Again.

Rolled 15 (1d100)

>>3927933

Rolled 7 (1d100)

>>3927933

Rolled 40 (1d100)

>>3927933

Rolled 93 (1d100)

>>3927933

>>3927936
>>3927941
>>3927942
Welp...
>>3927834
you just might get your wish

>>3927944
Yus, if Lori bet on the underdog she would probably take mad cash right now. Odds must be 5:1

Unexpected. For Yuu, I mean.

Writing.

>>3927933
>>3927936
>>3927941
>>3927942
There’s a resounding *crack* as Gathers’ heel connects flush and Mitsukoshi stumbles, letting go of the other foot as the crowd immediately loses it. It’s a testament to her hardiness that it doesn’t down her at all, although she clearly got her bell rung. By the time Gathers manages to recover, however, she’s mostly refocused, and the attempt to take advantage is rebuffed, the Tigress attempting to gain space to breath, and ‘Hunter’ clearly not wanting her prey to escape.

“WOOOO! YOU GOT THIS!” Lorelei cheers suddenly, not that it’s any different from the throng around you…

Wait.

When did you stand up? Huh. Exciting, this is, you guess. Although you know that shot wouldn’t have done much to you, that’s of course with the caveat that you’d actually see it coming. Say what you will, but everyone has a puncher’s chance if the opponent doesn’t have a chance to brace themselves. There’s no getting around that.

Although Yuu certainly seems annoyed by it, and she starts moving in much quicker to try and finish the competitor off, and the girl is gamely trying to fight her off, even nailing her with a check hook at one point, neatly sending the Tigress into the cage wall, leading to a brief attempt at wailing on her before getting pushed off. Gathers quickly moves back, and she seems as though she’ll be able to space her out-

-and then suddenly you swear you see something glow on her leg ever so slightly before suddenly she leaps forward, lashing out with a flying knee that you know good and well the poor girl has no chance of dodging.

The impact takes her off her feet as the crowd roars, and you and Lorelei look at each other in disbelief. Sure, you think that technically humans could do that, but…

Still, to your surprise (and apparently Yuu’s, judging by her face), Gathers manages to get back to her feet in relatively short order, though you can tell that took a lot out of her, and she’ll be lucky to last the round. Brave girl. Wonder if she can pull anything out of her hat.

>Yet another 1d100, best of three. Higher is better for Yuu.

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>3928017
Here goes...

Rolled 65 (1d100)

>>3928017
Wooooow really this girl is being pushed around by a normal human?

Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>3928017
Too bad there's no Mi for Yuu

>>3928017
Clarification because I realized it was written badly; Yuu launched the flying kick, not Gathers.

Oof Miranda's going to ROLL over this gal.

Rolled 32 (1d100)

>>3928017
Nooooooo I wanna roll for Yuu to be bad. She doesn't deserve to win.

67. Yuu is not brought down so easily.

Writing.

>>3928017
Gathers’ seems to try- she quickly tries for another feint, but this time Yuu scouts it, the leg blocked and responded to with a right kick of her own that takes Gathers in the torso; the girl stumbles, and Yuu tries to close in; Gathers yet has enough sense about her to duck and try for a takedown, but it’s a desperate maneuver, and you’re pretty sure everyone knows it. Despite the struggle, it turns into a clinch, and Yuu proceeds to tee off with knees, one after another until the force breakup- by now Gathers is bleeding from the nose, yet the fight isn’t stopped.

“Maybe she can at least survive the round…” Lorelei opines, her own cheering having died down a bit.

Gathers is approached by a hungry Tigress, and she leaps forward; Gathers manages to duck the initial swing, but the followup lands, and she drops, Yuu pursuing her- Gathers moves to defend as best she can, but she can’t grab hold of anything, and at last the referee gets her off and calls the fight as the crowd goes wild; Yuu Mitsukoshi by TKO in the first round.

“Awww.” Lorelei seems disappointed. “I mean, I kinda expected it, but for a second there…”

“Well, I dunno. I for one learned a lot.” Such as the fact that Yuu liked leg techniques; was a heavy pursuer, didn’t do fantastic at guard; was more a dodger. And most importantly? She could get rocked by a surprise punch. You estimate that she’s not as tough as you, although you’re fully aware that she might well have been holding back to make herself not entirely obviously supernatural. Nothing to go to the bank on, but a good baseline estimate.

As her fight team celebrates another victory, she noticeably looks back- at you. And smiles, though there’s little pleasant about it.

“Well..that’s that.” Lorelei grumbles.

“ATTENTION!” the announcer calls. “FOR ANYONE INTERESTED, THERE WILL BE A POST-FIGHT INTERVIEW AND MEET AND GREET WITH THE CHAMP IN A HALF HOUR! PLEASE, DON’T BE AFRAID TO SHOW UP!”

Huh. Well, that could be an avenue to learn a bit more...but with that weird look she’s been giving you guys, it might not be worth it…

>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.
>No need to give her more information than absolutely necessary. That is, indeed, that.
>Other

Done for tonight.

>>3928121
>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.

Let's meet the cheating champion.

>>3928121
>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.
Well, maybe we can challenge her to a fight for the information.

Goodnight, boss!

>>3928121
>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.
Miranda is not wearing damps so she's pretty easy to spot. Might as well walk right in.

>>3928121
>>No need to give her more information than absolutely necessary. That is, indeed, that.
No need to warn her about the kind of ass kicking she's about to receive.

I won't lie, I'm somewhat surprised at the Yuu hate. Not necessarily discouraging it, you guys do you. Just surprised and curious why.

>>3928141
We're channeling Miranda's inner antsy since she's itching for some action (being a NEET for almost a week seems dull for a workaholic) and Yuu is the most suitable. You saw how she stood up in the middle of the fight? Girl wants to clash.

>>3928121
>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.
>>3928141
She rigs legitimate fights and showboats while doing so.

>>3928121
>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.

>>3928156
Weren't we doing a similar thing on the last job with Scrappers?
>>3928121
>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.

>>3928131
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O895_OfwXJg

>>3928121
>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.
she used her danger sense, it's only right that we do the same to her. Maybe she smells like moldy bread or worse.

>>3928141
What >>3928156 said:
>She rigs legitimate fights and showboats while doing so.
Makes me want to have Miranda lecture her and take her down a peg.
also I don't hate her just very mild dislike

>>3928194
If we ever book a fight should we representing the US of A and bring this girl down a peg?

>>3928180
Eh, we were bored, passing through, and there weren't any stakes. From the looks of things, she's doing this consistently to rig real matches.

Can Randa even turn off her boosted body stuff?

>>3928207
She can - back in the mafia job she sparred with a girl in a boxing club without her powers

>>3928207
Not a good idea, turning it off right in the enemies' turf. They already know she's a MG anyhow.

>>3928250
they know izumi is an MG, but they are still unaware of miranda and lorelei

>>3928121
>No need to give her more information than absolutely necessary. That is, indeed, that.
We came here to scope, and scope we done did, apparently we are shining beacons of omgwtfbbq magic and all the magical girls can sniff us out of a crowd. And also their melee specialist isn't anything special.

>>3928516
The thing is, it's a controlled environment. Not a full blown magic fight. Sure the match is already one sided but maybe this is her way to look for fights when you don't have anything to fight with. Much better than punching a random civilian.

>>3928538
She'd have to be very exceptional indeed to hold a candle to Miranda given the experience gap. And the magical potency gap. And the style(s) gap.

>>3928141
It was to be expected. Yuu being a cheater is fine and dandy from Junko's POV, but its a really bad thing when its seen through Izumi's eyes

>>3928856
She even cheats in Corruptor's Quest.
>And Yuu taught Kanna how to cheat in exams in case if she fails to the disappointment of Sachiko and Rei.

>>3928121
>Hm. Well, she’s in public. And she’s got an idea about SOMETHING. Might as well.
We can try to get an isolated MG fight for fun, and try to go for a capture. Let Yuu be overconfident and then beat her down for intel.

>>3929506
Problem is, then what? We can kill her, sure, and it will give us some extra cash for sure, but that will jeopardize everything.

>>3929515
Why would it jeopardize anything? Junko loses an asset, and becomes easier to beat.

>>3929524
>Anons wanted a peaceful and asks why they are doing this
>Kills best friend

Anons you're doing something stupid now.

>>3929540
What peaceful? I'm all for killing them all like what the employers wanted.

>>3929515
We could just use sticky mana to glue her to a wall or floor so she won’t escape. That shit solves everything.

>>3929524
ok, lets turn it around. Miranda leans that izumi got murdered. what do you think she'll do?

mind you, i want to kill yuu and everyone that is aligned with junko, BUT we have to have a plan.

>>3929550
Wow killing a bunch of misguided teenagers without knowing why. Izumi frowns upon you murderhobos.

>>3929553
Knock her out and use her as bait for Junko. Make the meeting site outside of the city to reduce witness for more uses of magic to fight.

>>3929560
except they (our targets, who include marie and yuu) know.

>>3929560
Izumi may not like it, but if killing them is what the people who hired us wanted then I'm fine with doing that. Besides, that's exactly why Izumi asked Miranda for help right? so she doesn't have to do it personally. Something that Miranda should be perfectly fine with doing.

Never read Corruptor's quest, what do you want to kill this girl for? How do you justify waltzing up here and suddenly making a move like that when we're supposed to lay low?

>>3929580
>what do you want to kill this girl for
she's one of the targets that will give us extra Lotes after the mision ends. we don't need any more reasons than that one.

>>3929580
>what do you want to kill this girl for?
As I remember it, killing Junko is our mission, and every friend of hers are bonus pay to take out, right? So what's wrong with trying to complete the mission?

I mean it looks like people don't want to hurt girls they don't know or something, but given how every single one of them are dangerous people that have killed people I for one don't really care. After all, these girls got the kill order for a reason, which makes it enough for me to just do what we're told and kill them like what the mission giver wanted.

>>3929593
>>3929598
>Low-Profile Rider
>let's go for the kill during the public event
I get it that we might need to kill her but why do you want to do it now? What justifies it IC? Aren't we supposed to dig up more information first and do a proper investigation?

On mission briefing, the clients told that they aren't priority targets. What they are interested in is the shadow queen. Although they left us with the judgement on how we can deal with them doesn't mean we can just kill them like murderers. Remember this is Izumi Quest not Miranda. She's coming on Izumi request and we can't just kill whenever we could just because the opportunity presents itself.

The situation is already volatile. Also remember Arc's intelligence.
>As long as you don't mess with her allies she won't do a thing.

If this blows up beyond comparison and can't contain such menace and we can't contain the situation, it wouldn't hurt only the group but the reputation on how we handle things.

>>3929609
I'm with this guy

>>3929606
No one said to kill now though. I recommend meeting up with her in private and knocking her out like I suggested, not kill her in public. I don't know why you think killing has to be done in public.

>>3929606
i never said that we had to kill her then and there. I said that if we wanted to kill her, we needed a plan.

>>3929609
the mission was already paying very little with miranda and izumi alone. right now we're getting 20 Lotes per head, and that's an incredibly low payment for us. We need to gain more lotes one way or another, and killing junko's allies is the most straightforward way of doing it.

>>3929613
>>3929619
Still a ballsy move right after what happened a day ago. Miranda and Lori are on this job to help their friend, getting paid is secondary objective. We haven't even spent much of the last job's paycheck, we're in the green.

>>3929627
This, they aren't here for the pay but for Izumi. Anything they would gain is just a bonus.

Writing shortly.

Let's see what she has to say for herself.

>>3929674
>Let's see what she has to say for herself.
Speaking of, did Cylica watch Nightmare Run 3 yet?

>>3929689
She's too busy holding off suits and fans from overrunning the HQ to try to meet Miranda.

>>3929699
Miranda Styles: Suffering from success.

>>3929674
Now that Handler internet is acting. How do we deal with ongoing gawkers and paparazzi that would surround our HQ when we get back? Would we get another sequel?

>>3929788
We'll have to take Cyl and Owlia out for a meal if that's really happening then.

A sequel at this time is too early, unless they're doing early cuts. Different movie deals? They're coming alright.

>>3928121
“Not just yet,” you say. “Might as well see what she says about it all. Maybe we’ll get an opportunity to learn something.”

“You sure?” Lorelei asks. “Can’t imagine what she’d spill, but alrighty.”
With that, the two of you leave for the lobby area; there’s apparently a room to be set up for the interview, and then she’ll be doing the whole fan handshake and smile thing most celebrities do. There’s mostly just a lot of pushing and shoving and excitement and waiting before you manage to get to see Mitsukoshi step out, now dressed in much more formal wear. “Thank you, everyone!” Her voice is lighter and more soft than you’d anticipated. “I’ll now be taking questions at the behest of my manager.”

“We’ll be allowing non-press questions shortly, but for now, only those with a press pass, thank you!” the lady at her side asks. It’s not long before she picks someone to start with. “You, in the back with the glasses. Green shirt.”

“Yes, thank you very much!” He states his name and his channel, before quickly asking: “So what were your thoughts going into the match?”

“Oh, well...I knew she was good, but I had faith my skills would take me to victory.” she responds. She’s making it sound like she’s ever so honorable… “I respect Gathers-san’s efforts, and look forward to seeing how she improves.”

“Wow, really?” Lorelei mutters to you. You just elbow her lightly.

The next comes up soon as well. “Do you think you have a reasonable claim to the title of the strongest amateur MMA champion in history?”

“Oh, well...that’s a lofty title, but I would hope I’m considered worthy of such by now!” she answers.

On and on...most of the questions seem to be softballs, and she’s making it sound like she’s both confident, but at the whims of the people, or something like that.

However, at last the public portion of the Q&A comes. Immediately the first question is about what you expect. “Do you have a boyfriend?”

She actually laughs a bit, and shakes her head. “No, no I do not.”

“Next question!” her manager immediately calls.

“Gonna ask anything?” Lorelei asks.

Hmmm…

>Try to ask a question?
>No, you’ll keep in the background for now.
>Other

>>3929795
>>No, you’ll keep in the background for now.

>>3929795
>No, you’ll keep in the background for now.
Let's not make a scene just yet.

>>3929794
>>3929788
lets not get our hope that high too soon. we were an extra, i don't think we'll get a lead in our second move. maybe the third or fifth, but not the second one.

>>3929795
>No, you’ll keep in the background for now.
i don't really have any question that might rile her up.

>>3929788
We'd probably need an advice from Sal. There's still this weird gig with 'selection' by Ingenious.

>>3929795
>No, you’ll keep in the background for now.
She'll probably pick a random guest to "fight" as a show. Then she'll pick us.

>>3929795
>poke her about the *surprise* knee-attack

>>3929795
>No, you’ll keep in the background for now.
Activate danger sense while we observe Yuu

>>3929821
This supporting

>>3929795
>No, you’ll keep in the background for now.
>Danger Sense! GO!

>>3929821
Good idea.

>>3929817
>FORCED KICK: Dashing to the nearest enemy kicking them with your knee.

Yuu just used her skill. What a hack.

Writing!

>>3929795
>>3929797
>>3929798
>>3929800
>>3929808
>>3929821
>>3929823
“Nah,” you decide. “She’s already got my face. Not going to give her a reason to single me out.”

“Fair enough,” Lorelei shrugs.

“Would you say this has been your toughest match so far?” one guy asks.

She seems to think on it, before nodding. “Yes, actually. Though I feel that there are stronger opponents out there just waiting- so I’ll be sure to train more and get even stronger!” That one seems to get her a lot of applause, although you can’t help but frown. Sheer power is far from everything…but her eyes locking on to you at the end of that sentence tells you exactly what she really means by it.

Soon, there are a few more questions, but nothing of major importance; her pre-fight preparation is something you mentally note, as she states she ‘tries to remember those that I cherish’, but that’s about it.

“Alright!” the manager calls. “We’re going to be setting up for the handshake and meet and greet, so if you would all hold for a moment…” Without fanfare, Yuu leans over, whispering something in her manager’s ear- her eyes once again flicker towards you for just a moment as she pauses, before she continues whispering. The woman in question shifts her head a bit, as though confused, but another whisper, and she stiffens briefly, before she relaxes and nods. With that, the two part ways; Yuu being escorted by guards, and the manager walking off elsewhere in the opposite direction, making a call.

“Wonder what that was about,” Lorelei mutters as the crowd follows eagerly. “You caught her eye?”

“Can’t be any good reason for it,” you return. Thinking about it, you trigger your danger scent; easily the most obvious smell is the stench that comes from Yuu's direction; musky and natural- and not in a good way. Rotten meat and roadkill in general; something you can deal with, but with caution. Not what you expected considering her performance in the ring, but you're not going to ignore any warning.

What you DON'T expect is a weaker, but still obvious scent coming from somewhere in the crowd; you're not sure where, as you can't see the source, but there's someone else here that's magical in origin.

In the meantime, there’s a line that’s quick to form, and you’re wondering if you should get into it or not…

“Excuse me?” Hm? That line was in English. You turn to see a rather large man in a business suit and a buzzcut; he’s several heads taller than you, but your scent marks him as just an ordinary human. “Pardon my interruption, but could you come this way for a moment? We merely need a bit of privacy.”

(cont.)

>>3929867
The both of you look at each other in confusion. And, well, a red flag going off in your head. Still, there’s little way you can say no without looking suspect, so you both nod. Fortunately, he merely leads you to a small overhang some ways away from the crowd.

“Ms. Mitsukoshi wishes for you and your associate to remain until after the event is over,” he explains.

Lorelei’s quick to interject before you can say anything- admittedly, probably for the best. “I’m sorry, but may I ask why?”

“She notices that you both seem foreign, and she hopes she’s not being too forwards in presuming that you’ve made quite the journey to come here. She wishes to permit you some exclusive time with her so as to not feel the trip was wasted.” He smiles. “It’s a rare thing, I promise you. Shouldn’t let this go to waste.”

That is...concerning. But interesting, admittedly.

> “Tell her we graciously accept her offer.” If she’s going to call, you’re going to answer.
> “No need; her schedule is likely busy. We wouldn’t want to impose.” Smells of a trap.
> Other

>>3929868
> “No need; her schedule is likely busy. We wouldn’t want to impose.” Smells of a trap.
Let's bait her out then, she's thirsty for a fight.

>>3929868
>“Tell her we graciously accept her offer.” If she’s going to call, you’re going to answer.
guys, lets take this and if we need to spar, lets lose. that will definitely take them off guard and it allows us to scout her powers better.

>>3929868
> “Tell her we graciously accept her offer.” If she’s going to call, you’re going to answer.

I dunno guys but let's do it.

>>3929868
>> “Tell her we graciously accept her offer.” If she’s going to call, you’re going to answer.
Heh, sounds like an opportunity to get a private meeting to capture or kill her.

>>3929868
> “Tell her we graciously accept her offer.” If she’s going to call, you’re going to answer.

>>3929881
its too risky for a kill or capture. specially because the media is right outside the door.

So what's our story and how do we act? Miranda doesn't have dampeners, so I guess she's here to take the heat off the rest of the trio by hoarding all their attention. She could pose as foreign investigator of shadow magic (we got blightsnake katar and Gartoum's ring) and Lori is our rookie companion.

"Sure, we're down."

Writing.

>>3929890
We indeed are foreigners, enthusiasts in the MMA arts and found some tickets for the event.
Remember that we have to keep the lie as straight as possible and avoid revealing who we are.

>>3929890
We need to stay close to the truth since we have been informed that she has lie detection capabilities. So, foreigners with some interests in MMA who were given tickets.

>>3929900
I think we'll have to add more spice to that. Miranda doesn't have damps so they know she's magical.

>>3929900
>>3929905
She obviously gonna ask about our magic and purpose of our visit. MMA could work for the second but the the fact that Miranda is a MG should be obvious.

>>3929868
>>3929875
>>3929876
>>3929881
>>3929882
It’s with a sideways glance to Lorelei, who’s wearing a sardonic smile, that you decide. She’s clearly wanting to confront you on her terms, but...well, sometimes the best way to disarm a trap…

“Tell her we graciously accept her offer.” you say politely. Lorelei nods as well, smile still on her face.

The big gofer smiles and nods. “I’ll let her manager know immediately. Please, I’d be happy to escort you to our VIP area at any time. If not, feel free to enjoy the atmosphere and engage with other fans of Ms. Mitsukoshi.”

Of course he would. “Thank you. We’ll…”

> “Head back there now, if you don’t mind.” Might as well keep focused. (Timeskip.)
> “Stick around for a bit, if you please.” You want to see who that other unknown is…
> Other

>>3929908
>>3929911
we don't need to tell them anything else, though. let them suspect whatever they want, but if we really need to tell them something, can't a magical girl have some goddamn time for herself?
also, isn't miranda the only one with the magical dampner?

>>3929911
>>3929890
Maybe a rich collector of shadow magic curios instead of investigators?

>>3929916
> “Stick around for a bit, if you please.” You want to see who that other unknown is…

>>3929916
>“Stick around for a bit, if you please.” You want to see who that other unknown is…

>>3929919
don't convolute the story too much, also, we know jackshit about sadow magic items and our web of lies would get messy very soon.

>>3929916
> “Stick around for a bit, if you please.” You want to see who that other unknown is…
>3929918
Lori and Izumi have damps on, not Miranda anon.

>>3929916
> “Stick around for a bit, if you please.” You want to see who that other unknown is…
>>3929918
She's the only one without a magical dampener. We gave them to Lorelei and Izumi for some reason I can't remember.

>>3929918
It's the other way around - Miranda is the only one WITHOUT it. They figured out that Izumi was magical when she was wearing the dampener, meaning that Miranda has no chance of hiding it.

>>3929926
>>3929924
oh that's right. oh well, as long as we don't power up ourselves more than what we use in our passive mode, we should be fine.

>>3929923
Being too brief is just as suspicious, and I bet Randa has learned at least something about dark magic over the years.

>>3929916
> “Stick around for a bit, if you please.” You want to see who that other unknown is…

>>3929931
I'm just giving one example of a viable alibi. the lenght of mine or yours will depend of how much bullshit that shouldn't raise any alarms in Yuu mind we can make.

>>3929916
>> “Stick around for a bit, if you please.” You want to see who that other unknown is…

>>3929943
Let's just be true to ourself.

Well we can just try saying half truths. Miranda and co know she has lie detecting powers, so just close to the truth as much as possible:
>What are you doing here?
just observing the MMA scene and your fight
>why?
curiosity.
>where are you from?
[insert Miranda's country from her orginal world here]
>who do you work for?
ask why she wants to know and dodge the question. Get Lori to assist by asking her about why she cheats or something.
>fite me 1v1 IRL
"what's in it for me? It better be big cash"

>>3929998
>who do you work for?
For a goofball that enjoys making fun of me way too much.
that aint a lie and sal wouldn't get mad for it.

>>3929916
>>3929920
>>3929921
>>3929924
>>3929926
>>3929936
>>3929958

“...stick around for a bit, if you please.” There’s an unknown factor you’d rather like to know of before you move on this opportunity.

Fortunately, the man doesn’t seem to think anything of it. “Of course. Should you change your mind at any time, I’ll be over there in the hallway.” With that, he moves off in the direction he indicated, leaving you to pursue the other issue…

“What’s up?” Lorelei asks. She really needs to learn your scenting trick. Maybe you can teach her after this; it’d be ridiculously useful, and you’re surprised she’s never asked before. Maybe she just figures she has her own methods…

“There’s someone else here interesting. I want to meet them,” you say obliquely to prevent any unwanted ears from understanding- you’ve already gotten a couple of stares from the curious and nosy, though few seem willing to try to approach you both yet. With Yuu’s attention taken up by her PR duties, you’ve got a virtually clear shot at the person in question- and you find her in a far corner, where you’re pretty sure she’s surveying the area.

She looks a bit older than you, about a head taller with short black hair, and she’s wearing some kind of headband around it as well. Her face is rigid, and she seems of a more serious mien than most; she’s got slacks on and a tanktop that’s covered with a jacket. She takes a glance at you as you get a bit closer; you stop at the drink bar to avoid making it obvious as you get a glass of ginger ale, but she takes notice regardless, giving a small glare at you before resuming her lookout. Lorelei’s quick to sit next to you. “Corner?” she whispers, and you nod. “Anything to worry about?”

“Hopefully not,” you respond.

You wind up keeping an eye on her through peripheral vision. After a few minutes, however, she to your surprise moves off the wall and walks your way...and sits down next to your other side, ordering a root beer; seems she’s not quite of age herself.

The three of you are quiet for a minute or two, before she breaks the ice first. “Friends with Mitsukoshi-san? Or just fans?” She says it in a way that…

...well, you’d swear there was a threat in there somewhere.

> “We’re planning on getting to know her.”
> “Fans, that’s all. What about you?”
> “Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”
> Other

>>3930013
>“Fans, that’s all. What about you?”

>>3930013
> “Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”

>>3930013
>“We’re planning on getting to know her.”
Technically the truth

>>3930013
>“We’re planning on getting to know her.”

>>3930013
>> “Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”

>>3930013
> “Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”

Gonna have to stop it here for the night. Will resume tomorrow.

>>3930013
> “Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”

>>3930013
>“Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”

>>3930013
>> “Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”

>>3930013
>> “Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”

>>3930013
> “Neither, honestly. Just got lucky.”
last thread is not archived yet

>>3930013
>>3930019
>>3930027
>>3930028
>>3930046
>>3930062
>>3930082
>>3930454
>>3930790
“Neither, honestly,” you shrug. “Just got lucky.” Better to keep it safe.

She gives you a side-eye, and you can tell she doesn’t entirely believe you, but she can’t exactly dispute it, can she? With Lorelei giving nothing but a nod, she turns back to her drink. “Fair enough. I’ve heard that Mitsukoshi sometimes gives special guests their own private one on one time. Said to be a real life-changing experience, too.”

“We’re pretty set in our ways,” Lorelei smoothly interjects, the phrasing not escaping either of you, you suspect. “I don’t think we’ll be changing much any time soon.”

“Think so?” The girl sips at her drink. “Well, you might be different. Then again, you might not.”

“Oh, don’t you worry about us,” Lorelei assures. “What brings you here, though?”

“Just trying to learn a bit more about one of Ryomeki City’s bigger stars,” she answers. “I’m from out of town and heard a few things.” Interesting. “I was hoping I’d get a chance to meet with her later, but maybe it’s not in the cards. She seems interesting. Nothing like she supposedly used to be.” She gives you another sideways look, clearly expecting you to take the-

“Do tell.” Ah. Well, you were probably going to ask anyway. No harm in not. Thanks, Lorelei…

“Well, word is, when it reached me, at least, was that she used to be a lot more passive. Very non-confrontational,” she explains. As for what changed her, no one can say. Doesn’t talk about her younger days much, herself.”

Hm.

> “How do you know that, if you don’t mind my asking?”
> “Anything else you might know about her?”
> “Might not be the best idea to talk about stuff like that right now…”
> Other

>>3931247
> “Anything else you might know about her?”
> “How do you know that, if you don’t mind my asking?”

>>3931247

> “How do you know that, if you don’t mind my asking?”
> “Anything else you might know about her?"

For once Miranda do something girly... doing gossips.

>>3931247
>“Anything else you might know about her?”
>“How do you know that, if you don’t mind my asking?”
Handler, the last thread isn't archived.

>>3931247
> “How do you know that, if you don’t mind my asking?”
> “Anything else you might know about her?”

>>3931247
> “How do you know that, if you don’t mind my asking?”
> “Anything else you might know about her?”

>>3931247
> “Anything else you might know about her?”
She took any interest in us, no harm in doing the same to her.

What else might you know?

Writing.

>>3931247
>>3931253
>>3931259
>>3931266
>>3931273
>>3931292
“How do you know that, if you don’t mind my asking?” She’d said she was out of town and ‘heard a few things’? Sure, right.

She affects a small grin at the question. “I know people, is all. They tell me things, and so I know things. Things I should probably know, just in case.” Hm. Some kinda informant, you can’t help but think…

“So, any other juicy tidbits, then?” Lorelei asks, sidling a bit closer to her.

You can’t help but echo that. “Yeah, actually. Anything else you might know about her?”

“Just a few things that aren’t public knowledge,” she says, clearly enjoying being the center of attention despite her standoffish nature previously. Some people are just like that, you suppose… “She’s got someone; that she’s romantically interested in, I mean.”

“Really?” Lorelei leans in on this one. “How’d you plumb THAT?”

“Very carefully,” she says. “And admittedly a lot of piecing together interviews along with some...tidbits from the people that tell me things. I’m pretty sure she’s got more going on than she’s willing to make public. You can tell, too, can’t you?” Well, in a way, yeah. “Part of that is that she’s got someone she’s fighting for. Not sure who, but she likes them a whole lot, I’m sure. I’m also pretty sure she’s got some...shady dealings.” She stirs her drink. “...but then again, I’m sure YOU know that, considering your...rather HOPEFUL attitude.” The way she stresses the word fires off a bell in your head as she gets in closer to whisper riiiight in your ear, and you see Lorelei shift behind her. “I’d be more annoyed that someone else is moving in on our mark, but not much I can do to contest it, can I? ‘Sides, we’re all friends here, right?”

> “...sure. Now if you’ll excuse me.” Might as well get away and get to that VIP room before she can twig to anything else about you.
> “So why here and what outfit do I have the pleasure of pissing off?” You’d REALLY hoped the other day was the end of it- but why here and now?
> “Just stay out of our way, and everyone’ll get what they want, ideally.” You couldn’t really care less why they’re here, so long as they don’t get in your way.
> Other

>>3931361
>> “So why here and what outfit do I have the pleasure of pissing off?” You’d REALLY hoped the other day was the end of it- but why here and now?

>>3931361
>considering your...rather HOPEFUL attitude.
well, that answers one question at least.

> “Just stay out of our way, and everyone’ll get what they want, ideally.” You couldn’t really care less why they’re here, so long as they don’t get in your way.
Don't start nothing, won't be nothing.

>>3931361
> “...sure. Now if you’ll excuse me.” Might as well get away and get to that VIP room before she can twig to anything else about you.

>>3931361
>> “So why here and what outfit do I have the pleasure of pissing off?”

>>3931361
> “So why here and what outfit do I have the pleasure of pissing off?” You’d REALLY hoped the other day was the end of it- but why here and now?

>>3931361
>>3931372
>>3931388
>>3931421

Well. Forget it, might as well be direct. “So. Why here and what outfit do I have the pleasure of pissing off?” you ask straightforwardly. She seems a bit taken aback at that (as does Lorelei slightly), but she soon recovers, nodding her head slightly in acquiescence.

“The Order of the Silver Snake. Our goal is...well, you don’t need to know, really. But we have designs in this area, and we have every intention of accomplishing them, regardless of the issues here. We learned that one of our rivals was likely stepping in, so we decided to move things along on our end as well.”

“Hm. Not going to spill anything, then?” You’re definitely going to have to check in with your client about these guys...

She shakes her head. “You already knowing what you do is more a peace offering than anything else. I’ll concede this to you, as well; honestly, your presence is something I need to report more urgently, if I’m being honest. On that note, in fact...” she pushes away from the bar, drink still in hand. “I hope your meeting with Ms. Mitsukoshi goes well.” She’s quick to step out- you’d like to follow her, but...

You look back at the line; it’s getting thinner already, but you get the feeling (really, thanks to the big guy clearly looking at you) that you probably want to head back there sooner than ‘at the very end of the show’. Not to mention appearing to leave right now might cause some consternation…

>Roll 1d20, best of three.

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3931437

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3931437

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>3931437

>>3931442
Bless ya anon. That was close.

Well. Not the best, but certainly not the worst. At least she's not totally suspicious.
Last one for tonight.

>>3931456
Night, boss. See you around!

>>3931456
I call that a decent result since she has a lie detector and Miranda only has a poker face + experience.

This is turning out to be another gang war soon. This Shadow Queen is really famous.

>>3931437
>>3931440
>>3931441
>>3931442
The rest of the event passes...well, slowly, if you’re being honest, and halfway through, both you and Lorelei agree that there’s little to nothing to really notice; it’s clear that Yuu’s responses are somewhat scripted, and there’s not a lot new to glean from her talking with random people for ten or so seconds.

You’re soon after escorted by the big guy into the back, up a couple floors via elevator, and soon presented in what’s clearly a large VIP room intended for a multitude of people; the room is all sky blues and soft reds in color theming, with a refrigerator on either side, big screen TV on one end, plush couches, and a magnificent view of the now empty fight venue, overlooking the octagon in spectacular fashion. “If you’d kindly remain here patiently until the venue is empty?” He turns without expecting an answer, and you’re not inclined to really say anything about it anyway.

“So...over under on this being some kinda elaborate trap?” Lorelei asks.

You’re honestly not sure. “Even odds.”

She blows a raspberry at that. “Boring.”

The wait, surprisingly, isn’t that long- roughly another half-hour before you hear footsteps, and the two of you quickly stand up. That, plus that scent coming back to you…

Yuu Mitsukoshi, now dressed in a much more casual jean shorts and tank top, and workout headband gives you a thin, but clear smile. Her eyes are cautious, but oddly hopeful. “Hello.” Even her voice still has that ‘soft surety’ that you’d heard earlier. “It’s good to meet you. You clearly already know my name, but I’m Yuu Mitsukoshi.” She bows, and you both do the same- it’s just polite. “And you both are…?”

“April Springs,” Lorelei introduces herself, and you can’t resist giving her a side-eye, which she just responds to with a shit-eating grin. “My parents were big on theme naming.” Yuu, surprisingly, chuckles at that.

“...Shannon March,” you decide. She nods respectfully at you as well. “A pleasure.”

“It’s gratifying to see fans from so far out come to meet me,” she says graciously. “Would you care to sit?” She seems to take a seat regardless, and have a beat, Lorelei and yourself decide to do so as well. “A drink?”

“None for me, thanks- had my fill downstairs,” Lorelei easily waves off. You nod in agreement.

She doesn’t seem to take offense. “It’s fine. Well...I suppose we should get right to it, hm?” She leans forward a bit- the mood in the room drops from the faux pleasantness it had gained, into something a bit cooler. “May I ask just why are you here? I don’t get many magical girl fans as strong as you seemingly are simply on visits, and, well... I’m sorry if I’m a bit paranoid, of course, but fame tends to do that…and, well, I suspect I would’ve known earlier if you were just tourists, no offense.”

>Response?

(See you tomorrow!)

>>3931483

> Don't really know why you'd be so paranoid, we're both magical girls, right? I'm not sure what kind of rivalries you have here, but I'm not here for some kind of territorial dispute.

Setting things straight (In a sense) might make her more open.

Following up is the obvious concern
> But... you've been in this town for a while, right? You can practically feel the despair. I'm just looking for some answers, you know?

For motivation, there's always a 'Friend'

> Because one of my friends went here as a tourist, acctually. I haven't heard of her in a while, and she should have returned by now. I'm just... worried, you know?

And why did we come to her?

> And since I've heard about you from the locals, I was thinking that you might be abled to help. The fact that you won 49 fights, all without losing once, makes it kind of... obvious what you are.

>>3931483
Start with a mention that we are fans of MMA and meeting her was a lucky turn of events, but we do have other business here.
Tell here that we're here to obsereve and investigate what is happening in this city, but have no buisness to get involved in solving its problems. Kinda like an attache.
There's enough on our plates back home, we're here just to see the situation, watch how it unfolds, so we'll be prepared if something similar to what's happening here won't happen on our part of the land. Repeat that we don't want to involve ourselves in local affairs, that'd reflect badly on our 'research'.

>>3931483
>"No, of course we're tourists! Are you kidding me? I don't know what your MG community is like, but I don't know a single girl who wouldn't have a gander at a city with THIS much despair energy. Anyways, I'm a big martial arts fan, so I couldn't resist the opportunity to see for myself whether the undefeated 'Tigress of Ryomeki' is really all that she's cracked up to be."

>>3931483
> "It's fine. A bit of paranoia goes a long way in this age."
> For our cause to be here : mention the overwhelming Despair this city is giving out. We're a curious bunch of sort and wanted to see out this oddity ourselves.
> Take a light poke at how she used MG techs on a normal human.
> Ask her if she knows anything about the Despair of the city, and how long it has been like this.

>>3931543
I can dig these answers 'ere. Supporting.

>>3931483
If we introduce ourselves we should name ourselves Mai (May)

So to open, we wave off her suspicions first with whatever and then ask about the elephant in the room (the city's Despair).

What should be our identity beside being tourists?
- Curious Researchers.
- Private Investigators.
- Concerned friends looking for a missing person.
- Just tourists who's attracted by the city's Despair amount.

The reason we came to her can be that we're MMA enthusiasts + >>3931543.

>>3931667
No curious researcher. Not even private investigators. They would doubt anyone who pokes with abnormal despair around the area. But we can ask why. Curious Magical Girls is fine but not investigators/researcher. That's a red flag. Looking for a missing friend is also fine. My only qualms is we should have looked for a name that was missing. A name from the organization agent that was sent here. Say that we're from the "insert country here" and since her employer didn't answer back our questions and with what little clue we have that we ended here. We should also pick something 3rd world country like SEA. Philippines is probably perfect due to being a modern 3rd world country where income disparity is very high. It would make sense that a person goes overseas to work for her family.

How about that for an alibi?

>>3931711
Wait, Miranda would probably have a data for that. I mean 3-5 days being cooped up in the room should given her time to look for previous news about missing persons especially on the organization.

>>3931483
I like you >>3931543

>>3931543
Yes, i like this.

>>3931711
>>3931713
In regards to a name, It'd be probably be the smartest choice to not give them exact details.
We need a Jane Doe, which we could describe physically, but no name revealed.

Cause my problem is the fact that girls are either found dead or they disappeared. What happened to the latter? What if they know about this particular person?
It'd be bad if that girl was a vicious MG, which would make us suspicious as heck, worst case though is that they interrogated them and our name never fell, which would definitly blow our cover.

Thinking about it, it's probably best to just leave it up in the air. With how much shit is happening in the city, there is no way they would know about every single girl that ever went there. Heck, don't say she was a Magical girl either, leave it as vague as possible, for now.

The short of it is, don't say names, we don't know if they might know, but it's logical to assume they don't know EVERYthing.
Don't give any details, unless asked about it.

>>3931788
Alright, fair enough.

Shouldn't we shy away from stating facts that are not true? Lie detector abilities are usually passive afaik.

>>3932357
>Lie detector abilities
Who do we know of that can do that?

>>3932395
Arc told us Yuu could do that do that in the last thread.
Speaking of which hasn't been archived yet.

>>3932395
Was this anon below lying and meta-gaming?>>3929905
I figured it was something from the organization dossier.

We can use >>3931543 but we'll have to omit out the finding missing friend thing to muddy her lie detector a bit.

>>3932402
I don't recall that. I need to go check.

>>3932536
>>3932402
Well I'm blind. Arc DID tell us Yuu can lie detect. Fancy that.

>>3932550
Will handler reward us for our acknowledgement of relevant minutiae? Only time will tell

Ok so to top it off.

> Use this >>3931543
> BUT omit out the missing person case, replace it with genuine curiosity for motivation.

That way it's gray enough. Sounds decent?

>>3932570
Oh, and add that we're also MMA enthusiasts.

>>3932570
>>3932578
Yes this is fine.

File: Styles - Red or Ruby.jpg (2.2 MB, 3840x2160)

2.2 MB JPG

Trivia:

- Miranda, Izumi and Lorelei all have their own personal vehicles. In Lorelei's case, she also has a car.
- Miranda has a hover bike named Red. It's should be sleeker than this and not as boxy.

>>3932570
>>3932578
Good enough, but I think we should opt out the MMA enthusiasts bit to muddy it even further. But I'm fine either way.

>>3932705
Also that bike is also a gun.

>>3932705
Interesting wardrobe you gave her.

Still saving it.

Anyway, pretty sure I understand what you're going for. Writing shortly.

>>3932725
It's close to her actual casual wear: shorts, tank tops and sneakers - like you've stated in her various outings. I just made it a little bit fancier.

>>3932729
those jorts ride just a little high

>>3931483
You lean back a bit, trying to project an air of casualness. She’s probably got a right to be suspect, but she doesn’t need to know that right now- although you DO recall Agent Arc mentioning that she can pull a Lorelei and tell when someone’s lying. Fortunately, that’s easy enough to get around; even you know how to spin an ambiguous yet honest statement. “Don't really know why you'd be so paranoid; I mean, we're both magical girls, right?”

“I’m afraid that doesn’t mean much here,” she says. “There are a lot of those out there who are willing to use it all kinds of ways, I’ve discovered.”

She’s not wrong. “Well, I'm not sure what kind of rivalries you have here, but I'm not here for some kind of territorial dispute.” And you very much aren’t- you could give a rat’s ass who ended up running Ryomeki when all was said and done. “I mean, you've been in this town for a while, right? Live here, maybe?” She nods. “Well, you can practically TASTE the despair. Me? I'm just looking for some answers.”

There’s a pause at that, as she bites her lip lightly. “Are you...sure you’d want to know? Sometimes answers can be...very distressing, for those unprepared for the consequences.”

“Well, that’s why we came here,” you mention. “I've heard about you, and I was thinking that you might be able to help with some answers.” You even give a little snort. “I mean, the fact that you’ve won 49 fights straight? When you know what to look for, makes it kind of...well, obvious what you are.”

She laughs a bit at that. “Do you think so? I guess considering my experiences that might not be entirely false…”

“Hey, relax,” Lorelei says soothingly. “All we’re hoping for is just a lil’ help with a couple things.”

You can tell she’s thinking hard about it, by how her eyes flick to the side and her lips purse. “Well...I guess I could help. What is it you need to know?”

Okay, so far so good...

>Questions?

>>3932804
>Why is this place have such high concentration of despair energy? It's too abnormal that I can feel it up outside the city 15 miles out?

>>3932804
What >>3932815 said.
Plus:
>Heard there's a vigilante going about despite the wide spread despair. Do you have any clue about it? Seems pretty strange.

Writing.

>>3932815
>>3932819
Supporting on this but when she is curious about the vigilante, quip Lori about some college boys mentioned it.

>>3932804
>>3932815
>>3932819
>>3932832
“I can think of two off the top of my head,” you lead off with as Lorelei leans in, an interested look on her face. “Why DOES this place have such a high concentration of Despair energy? I can feel it miles out of the city.”

Her eyebrows twitch slightly, before she closes her eyes in a wan smile. “Oh, well... I’d like to say that it’s just a matter of the populace taking the wrong lessons from society, but...I’m not sure exactly what, sorry.” Her eyes open again as she shrugs.

Hmph. It’s Lorelei who speaks up next, as you figure on that. “Actually, speaking of that, we heard there's a vigilante going about trying their hand at old fashioned street justice, even despite all the despair. What about that- any clue about it?” She frowns. “Seems pretty strange, if ya ask me.”

Yuu seems more reluctant to answer this one. “Well...whoever it is, I’m... I hope they think their efforts are worth it. All this trouble…” she laments.

“More than trouble, I’d say,” Lorelei says with a half-smirk. “It’s some rando killing and disappearing people for no good reason.”

“It’s likely a good reason!” She suddenly starts, and neither you nor Lorelei miss the sudden explosive attitude before she settles down just as quickly. “To he-them! It’s just sometimes people have what they believe are good reasons, is all- it’s a passion, for good or for ill...and whether it turned out to be one or the other is left to history sometimes…”

“But we’re not historians,” you point out. “We’re in the now. We define what history will be.”

She seems to shrink in on herself a bit- a far cry from the fighter that she was in the ring. “I...yes...I guess you’re right about that…and a lot of people probably wouldn’t consider any reason good enough, would they?” she sighs, a defeated tone coming from her. “It’s a shame trust can be in short supply sometimes.”

>Roll 1d20, best of three.
>Other

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3932871

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3932871

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3932871

...

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3932871
I hope I roll 1 to see what happens

File: 1539144942690.png (55 KB, 300x250)

55 KB PNG

>>3932872
>>3932874

>>3932872
>>3932874
Yahoo! Now we get to complete a side mission by killing this one!

HOLY SHIT.

..Well alrighty then.

Now might be a good time to cue up some fight music.

Writing.

>>3932883
You do realize that Handler doesn't do critfails, right? We'd have had to roll three straight 1's to fuck up that badly.

Guys really? I checked in with my dentist and this happened?

>>3932888
Heh
>>3932887
Ahahahahaha!

>>3932888
I don't do critfails, but that's still two ones and just an 8, which ain't good no matter what way you slice it.

i'm still believeing that we should let her beat us. i heavily doubt that Yuu will go for the kill, but its a good moment to practice how to roll with the punches.

Rolled 17, 18, 12, 17, 2, 1, 1, 5, 4, 5 = 82 (10d20)

also, cleansing the dice, and probably angering a lot of people at the same time.

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10 KB JPG

>two crit 1s
>three shitty rolls
>that spoiler from Handler
Welp, time to bring out the sticky mana.

>>3932883
Fair, but we're not getting paid for killing the people with info. So, it's pointless.

Rolled 1, 8, 19, 6, 6, 2, 15, 4, 2, 19, 20, 20, 14, 17, 17, 16, 9, 16, 6, 7 = 224 (20d20)

you know what? i'll do it again.

>>3932883
wait, no. its an incredibly stupid idea to kill yuu right now. they will immediately tag us and the mission would be over.

>>3932908
This...remember, we are tasked to look for shadow queen and capture/kill her not killing her allies. If we do, we would have a hard time looking/searching for her.

>>3932912
dude no. there are a lot of witness that can give a fairly decent description of our faces and that's without taking in consideration the cameras the place has or all the media. there is a time and place for murder and this DEFINITELY isn't the case.

>>3932908
Info? I thought Yuu was one of the allies of Junko that we get paid to kill as secondary objectives.

>>3932912
That's why we better trap her in a sticky mana/orbital ring or use her as bait to get the shadow queen or vigilante out.
how about a risky one: get Yuu unconscious and get Lori to possess her. Although I don't know what we can do with that...

>>3932917
what? No, the client says it's on our discretion if we kill them or not. They didn't say that there would be reward for killing them. They only provide information (chess piece) which in turn could point on who is the shadow queen. I mean if the dossiers are treated as hitlist then Junko's mom would be a good start.

>>3932871
“Trust is a precious resource, yeah,” you admit, although you feel like the hairs on the back of your neck are rising something fierce…

Which is why you’re barely taken by surprise when she looks back up at you, a FAR more determined expression on her face than was there a second ago. “Unfortunately, I don’t think it’d be smart to spare any on you both.”

As soon as she leaps up, so do the both of you- and the table goes up as well, courtesy of a big kick from her. Lorelei isn’t able to dodge over the back in time and you can hear a yelp of annoyance as she hits the marble flooring- and the couch hits her, pinning her somewhat. You in the meantime had thrown up your arms to defend, the furniture cracking around you- and you thank your lucky stars you didn’t lower your guard as the punch that follows both splinters the table and sends a slight sting up your arms, sending you back several feet and sliding against the glass panes. They don’t give, thank goodness, but you’d rather not test it.

“The FUCK brought this on!?” Lorelei says, laying on the floor as Yuu quickly steps over the pinned girl. Damn good question. You thought you were doing pretty well, there...

The fighter shakes her head, as though trying to shake something loose, before she drops into a combat pose. “I’ve heard that kind of talk before. It’s...I don’t know if you’re honest or not, but I can’t trust you. I don’t think I can trust anyone right now...not when things are getting dangerous again…sorry, but I'm going to need to knock you out!”

She rockets forward, and another stinging sensation goes through your arms as you block another shot that would've rocked your face.

Fucking great.

>Action!

>>3932925
they told us we would get compensated for offing them, the only reason we haven't done that is that we don't know all the players, nor who is the dark queen.

>>3932923
i think its possible, but Lorelei wearing yuu would be a failiure from the start. Lorelei just doesn't know how yuu acts and behaves

>>3932927
>Solar Flare
>Try to knock her out
>Lori should try to support Miranda. 2 experienced fighter vs 1 green newbie will turn this fight in Miranda's favor.

>>3932927
>Focus on dodging and tiring her. she simply can't focus on the two of us and it allows us to scout her skill and maybe extract more information outta her.

>>3932927
Remember what we did with that bug-summon back with Lysol? Just place a barrier in front of her, then place more so that she's boxed in. Then throw fireworks and flashbangs at her until she stops resisting.

>>3932927
Considering there should be staff nearby and shattering a table isn't quiet, we should avoid tipping our hand too much here, as I doubt this will go on long before someone intervenes. Stick to barehanded; try to unpin Lori when we get a chance to get a numbers advantage.

>>3932938
Basically do a hongkong on her? ok, but what's the plan after that?

>>3932927
What said >>3932937 and have Lori put out two clones to overwhelm her, while we try to shove some sticky mana on her while dodging.

>>3932937
>>3932938
Let's box her in with barriers then.

>>3932942
We should bail I guess. Fighting her right now is too much baggage and she can't follow us without breaking the masquerade.

>>3932927
That >>3932934

>>3932942
Well, after she's all disoriented from her personal fireworks show, knock her out and we either take her with us for interrogation, or just escape and try someone else.

>>3932940
lets consider this as well. someone WILL come and we can use that to our advantage.

>>3932925
>http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/3872501/tags=Magical%20Girl%20For%20Hire%20Quest
>3882899: “Of course,” Izanami starts. “You’ll get paid more if’n you can confirm one o’ the Shadow Queen’s assets and take ‘em out.”

After checking, yes we get paid more to take out every single one of the primary target's allies. So killing this one is definitely by the mission and for profit.

>>3932927
Mana fist to knock her into the ground. Or use sword if it's quieter.

>>3932927
This >>3932934
And
>Summon Gartoum for a quick 3v1

>>3932960
No lethal takedowns please. Killing her is an option, but now is not the time.

>>3932960
we shouldn't kill her right now and actually, i believe that it would benefit us more to cover her little "misbiheaviour" so that she ends up trusting us. she definitely knows who the vigilante is, and it would make our job way easier if yuu presents her to us.

So to sum it up:

>Solar Flare (warn Lori first).
>Box her in with Barriers while she's dazed.
>Wear her down. And if possible calm her down.

This good?

>>3932966
nope. the less powers we show, the better. because someone WILL enter through the door and we will need some sort of alibi.

>>3932966
Alpha attack, we got security on the way. Kidnap her for intel.

>>3932969
>we got security on the way.
and they definitely have a positive ID on us. that literally goes against the contract.

>>3932968
Does the door open inwards? Quick barrier should solve that. Opens outward? How about sticky mana?

>>3932966
No. We could maybe get away with the flare as a blown light bulb or something, but there's no disguising a barrier. Just go bare knuckles until someone shows up or she somehow starts winning.

>>3932966
Yeah, okay, this works

So, it seems like the majority consensus idea is essentially

>Flare
>Free Lori.
>Throw hands but non-lethally.

Any last changes before I start writing? Giving about five minutes.

>>3932966
>>3932969
Sure. I think with using Solar Flare for stun, a bit of Mana fist for a quicker take-down can help too. Punch her harder and faster and all that.

>>3932978
i'd say that we should take out the flare.

>>3932978
Yes

>>3932978
>>3932982
How about sticky mana? Less alarming. Replace Flare with a salvo of sticky mana.

I'd add try to calm her down too.

>>3932973
the problem is the same. we are in a public place, there are lots of people, cameras and the media that saw our faces. the contract specifically asked (and payed extra) to make us work as stealthy as possible. kidnapping someone here, its the complete opposite of being stealthy.

>>3932984
fine for me, i'm just not sure if we'll be able to make the mana disappear in time.

>>3932984
I support changing sun flare with sticky mana

>>3932984
I'd go for this yes.

>>3932986
Kidnapping people may be not stealthy conventionally, but the main issue is not showing too much magic in front of people. So as long as we do one flare and do the rest with melee they wouldn't be able to tell, and more likely assume we're just another kidnapping group that wants to ransom this person for money, which is totally normal and not specifically suspicious in terms of magic.

>>3932994
sure, but the problem is still the same, we have no plan and therefore we are bound to end in another bleach in spaghetti situation. And everyone remembers how that ended up.

>>3932995
Why no plan? We could easily use her as Bait to get Junko to come and get her, or one of her other allies. Either way is good. Just have to make sure the pick up point is far away from the city to reduce collateral from potential combat.

Writing, incidentally. Sticky Mana in exchange for a flare, though.

>>3933001
...now i'm gonna be that guy.
We don't have any IC knowledge about junko, so you have to take her out of the equation. the only person we know that it might be related to Yuu is Marie, and that's just because they are on the same dossier the organization gave to us. we don't know if she cares enough for yuu, or if she'll use her disappearance to her advantage. or if junko will go in a rampage. which is the most correct option, but then again, we don't know about that . all in all, its not worth it and we benefit more from Yuu if we let her be for the time being.

>>3933008
Why would I need to take her out of the equation? Seriously speaking, I don't know the other quest, nor have I read much spoilers about her, so the only thing I DO know is that the target name should be Junko, that's it. Thus even with no knowledge of the target name, this is exactly what I'd do to get her to come out. So if anything, you're the one that's using OOC info to influence your votes, while I have little to no info for my reasoning on my votes.

for me personally I don't mind overt destruction so long as it's outside of the city, and I can't imagine why the target would do anything inside if we made this Yuu tell the said target where she is so we can lure her outside the city.

>>3932927
>>3932978
>>3932982
>>3932983
>>3932984
>>3932991
>>3932993


Well, regardless of whatever else happens, you know what your immediate goal is. Getting this girl OFF you.

Two more punches are slipped; she’s fast, but you’ve got enough experience to offset that, and you’re quick to move to her side- or at least try. She’s not exactly inexperienced herself, and she quickly matches your lateral movements, noticing you trying to get behind her. A left leg is thrown out to quickly check your movements; the snap of it is sudden, and you have to stop quickly; an attempt to juke her fails and only gets a fist far too close to your face for comfort that you’re forced to respond to with a pair of jabs that get her to take a step back briefly.

She’s quick to step back in, however, and throws a follow up, and you’re forced to defend against that one as well; but as you hear a wooden sliding noise quickly transition into a large crash, you recall that Lorelei is a factor- and far hardier than her behavior and preferred style would indicate.

She’s clearly not happy, either. “Okaaaaay, bitch, how’s about we calm the FUCK down, huh? I do NOT want to get arrested for beating the shit out of a local celebrity.” Not that how she’s acting is any indication of that…

There’s a moment, though, where she looks away from you- to focus on Lorelei.

That’s a mistake.

>Current Mana: 12,300/12,500

Immediately you throw your hand forward, and soft, pliable, yet very very sticky mana forms and fires out in large, spherical blobs- honestly, you’re getting a lot more used to this stunt, and thank goodness for it.

>Roll 1d20, higher is better for you. Best of three.

>>3933016
the name junko hasn't been mentioned at all either by junko's mom or any of the targets we have met AFAIK. maybe once in the dossier and just as a passing note, which means that either you are crazy good at connecting the dots or you are incorporating IC knowledge--
>while I have little to no info for my reasoning on my votes.


Oh, its a wild guess.


>for me personally I don't mind overt destruction so long as it's outside of the city
Me neither, but then we're getting technical with how we interpret the contract and that's just a headache.

>>3933008
Junko is *best* friends with Yuu so yeah she will go on rampage if someone is happened to her. She would literally hunt us down to the ends of the world. Which would work with us.

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>3933021

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>3933021

>>3933023
yeah, i know, that's why its spoilered. as for why its spoilered, is that everyone believes that junko has been dead for at least a year and miranda and company don't have any real leads on her. yet.

Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>3933021
>>3933026
Noice