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”Wait one second! You don’t know what you’re stopping!”

The intruder’s desperate face flashed in your minds eye, a millisecond before you bisected it in a shower of blood and coolant fluid.

The armored corridor you had found him in flickered, replaced by a massive, white room.

You’re standing in darkness. And in that darkness, you feel a pull on your shirt. At your side is Kaguya. But something’s different. There’s something … off … about her expression. But what?

“Be careful out there, Kentaro-Kun.” Kaguya warns.

Everything fades to black.


You jerk awake. A dream? But …

You shake your head and pull the power cord from your head, eliciting a On Battery notification from your HUD. You didn’t have time to be distracted by dreams, no matter how strange. Already, what had happened in your dream was fading from memory.

You go through your morning routine and slip your shirasaya into your belt. It’s been two weeks since you’ve been reassigned into your new role as Kaguya’s retainer, either a great honor and responsibility, or a job as a plutocrats training wheels for future leadership. At least you liked your master. Kaguya was a sweet girl. And as for her family … it was best not to think about that. It rarely affected Kaguya’s daily life.

Your movements feel noticeably more smooth with a full battery. You really only needed to recharge every month or so before it became a problem. But still … it felt good to feel the energetic humming of your cybernetics right after a night of charging.

But in contrast, Kaguya looks more tired than usual stepping out her door. It was barely noticeable, but her movement was a little slower and stiffer than usual. There’s hints of makeup on her face to hide small bags under her eyes. Although, with the tightly controlled grace she usually carries herself with, you wouldn’t have noticed it two weeks ago. But nevertheless, it’s there.

“Good morning Kaguya-sama.” You greet her, bowing.

“Good morning Kentaro-ah … ah … hwaaaaaa.” Kaguya’s attempts to conceal her tiredness disintegrate as her mouth opens in a tiny yawn.

>”How was Kaguya-sama’s night?”

>”There’s no need to hide your tiredness from me, Kaguya-sama.”

>Say nothing

>Offer her some of the coffee you still have in your pot
>>
>>4143080
Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Corporate%20Cyber-Samurai%20Quest
>>
>>4143080
>>”There’s no need to hide your tiredness from me, Kaguya-sama.”
>>
>>4143080
>”How was Kaguya-sama’s night?”
>>
>>4143080
>Offer her some of the coffee you still have in your pot
>>
>>4143080
>Offer her some of the coffee you still have in your pot
Acquire Coffee, Begin Life
>>
“Would Kaguya-sama like some coffee? I still have a few cups left in the pot from my own breakfast.” You offer.

“That’s very kind, but it won’t be necessary. I dislike the taste of coffee … and besides, I doubt it would affect on … hwaaaa.” Kaguya yawns again. “Okay, maybe just a sip, if it’s no trouble for you.”

“I will get you a sip of coffee then.” You bow and walk back into your quarters. Kaguya follows you.

“So … this is what Kentaro-kun’s home is like.” Kaguya comments, looking around your living room. Even though the maids keep it in good order, you feel a bit embarrassed letting Kaguya see the inside of your quarters. Residual shame from the state you kept your old apartment in, maybe? “Hmmm, what are those boxes on your couch, Kentaro-kun? They look like external drives, but I’ve never seen any that large.”

“They’re SimRPGs. A kind of digital game.” You explain as you search for a clean cup. “Their large size is to accommodate the file size taken up by the assets needed to construct a full sensory-immersion environment.”

“I see.” Kaguya nods. “And how do you play these games?”

“An environment is digitally simulated for you where you can go on various adventures.”

“What kind of adventures?” Kaguya asks, sounding interested.

“It depends on the game. But it’s usually a combination of fighting enemies, following stories, and uh …” You stop before mentioning the other large draw of SimRPGs.

“Please continue, Kentaro-kun.”

“Like I said, you can fight enemies and follow stories.”

“Ah, I see. So it’s a way of leading a life you would not normally be able to lead.” Kaguya concludes.

“Y-yeah. You could say that.” You agree, handing Kaguya a cup of coffee.

“Thank you, Kentaro-kun.” Kaguya says, accepting the cup from your hands. She takes a small sip, then frowns in discomfort. But still, she finishes it without complaint.

“Is that better?” You ask.

“It’s a … refreshing bitterness.” Kaguya says, “But really, I think it was talking to you that woke me up.”

“I’m glad you’re awake then, Kaguya-sama.”


Once you’ve dropped Kaguya off at her archery tutor, you enter the Kendo hall, only to find it empty of it’s normal occupants. But you can hear the sounds of footsteps and the hum of steel cutting through the air in the private hall in the back. You’re only picking up the life signs of a single person. You walk over to the back of the hall …
>>
The sliding door is slightly open, and you can see the person training from your side. It’s Kyune. She was moving through the steps of some kata with an expression complete concentration. There was a real-looking katana in her hand, a quality piece of steel polished until it shone like a jewel from the morning light. Every one of her fluid, precise movements sent sunbeams dancing through the air as they reflected off her blade. However, just as soon as you spot her, she stops and lowers her sword.

“Is that you behind the door, Kentaro? Come in, don’t be shy.” You step into the private hall. It was a well-kept space. Calligraphed scrolls hung from the walls, with words like ‘Focus’ and ‘Intensity’ written in such vivid kanji that they seemed to explode off the page. A set of armor like the one in the room you had met Lord Muramoto in was enshrined in an alcove in the wall, along with an ornate daisho. “Well, spying on a maiden in the early morning light … Good grief, what do you have to say for yourself, Kentaro?”

“I-I’m sorry if you did not want to be observed, Kyune-sama.” You apologize profusely.

Kyune laughs. “Don’t really give a damn, to be honest. Anyways, are you looking for a sparring partner, Kentaro? I happen to be looking for once myself …”

>Spar with Kyune

>Don’t spar with Kyune
>>
>>4143674
>Spar with Kyune
>>
>>4143674
>Spar with Kyune
>>
>>4143674

>Kick her ass so hard she tastes boot leather.

A master has little use for a weak retainer.
>>
“If Kyune-sama wishes, then I will teach her the meaning of real experience.” You accept.

Kyune snorts. “You’re more than welcome to. The Muramoto have no use for weak retainers under their roof.”

You begin walking towards the rack of wooden bokken.

“Not those ones.” Kyune stops you. She nods her head in the direction of the shrine. “Borrow a sword from there.”

>Very well, you’ll put real steel in her hand.

>Absolutely not. Insist on using bokken.
>>
>>4143761
>>Very well, you’ll put real steel in her hand.
>>
>>4143761
>...why, exactly?
>Very well, you’ll put real steel in her hand.
>>
>>4143761
>Very well, you’ll put real steel in her hand.

Maybe we should show out mini-boss lady an SIM mystery solving game' should she be so interested.
>>
“If you insist.” You say, retrieving the katana from the shrine. “But why the sword in the shrine?”

“I don’t consider it real training unless the risk for injury is real.” Kyune explains.

“No, I mean, I have a perfectly adequate sword right here.” You say, patting your shirasaya.

“I hope that was a joke.” Kyune scowls, “I’m not stupid, if you brush me with that thing, I’ll lose a limb. This way at least, if you accidentally hit me, it will stop at the bone.”

“I see. I promise to be careful then.” You square off with Kyune and bow. “Seido Kentaro, Noir-Muramoto Guard-Retainer school.”

“The responsibility of stopping the blow lies with the one doing the parrying.” Kyune bows deeply and formally. “Muramoto Kyune, Zeijaku-Ten swordsmanship school.”

The two of you assume fighting stances. You adopt a standard and versatile stance with your sword slightly extended in front of your body and ready to respond to anything. Kyune adopts a peculiar stance, facing you with the side of her body, her sword almost fully extended so that it’s very tip is oriented to be the striking point.

>Overwhelm her with powerful blows

>Strike her before he can strike back

>Test her defence, look for an opening
>>
>>4144066
>Test her defence, look for an opening
>>
>>4144066
>Overwhelm her with powerful blows

The phrase "fluid, precise movements" makes me think she's a precision type, and overwhelming power is the counter to that.
>>
>>4144066
>Overwhelm her with powerful blows
>>
>>4144066

>Overwhelm her with powerful blows, expect a trick.

I don't trust her. That stance is great if they want to suddenly alter stance and come in from an unexpected angle - so leave a way out.
>>
>>4144152
>That stance is great if they want to suddenly alter stance and come in from an unexpected angle
Can I ask what is this based on?
>>
>>4144153

That her sword is almost fully extended keeps the opponent at length, but means she has almost zero windup for either thrusts or cuts - she has no power, and little speed. That the body is side-on means that instead of using their range of motion to deflect blows left and right, they need to deflect them towards the front and back - meaning a weaker back guard (harder to redirect blocks so they pass behind you), and an unnecessarily wide front guard.

A spin, duck, and thrust/slash from the new position is entirely practical, though, even if risky when the opponent sees it. The only other possible use for this guard is to rapidly shift backward to wind up with off-foot forward, but that costs her ground.
>>
>>4144164

Of course... she could be taking her cues from bullshit martial arts movies, in which case she'll get her ass kicked in about 2 seconds.
>>
>>4144164
I don't believe spins are ever practical.

Other than that, I know little about kenjutsu, but Kyune's stance reminds he of the German Langort, which is a position after a strike, not a proper guard.
>>
>>4144166

Similar to my perception. This is a position to invite an attack, not to launch one.
>>
Players should remember that a core part of this genre is style over substance. I actually know shit about kendo, sorry.

Roll 3 1d20's please. You will need three successes.
>>
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Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4144351
>three successes
>even kyune is better than us
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4144351
Where did you get this system from, and how can we improve?
>>
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>>4144414
>>
Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4144351
>inb4 1
>>
>>4144351
Rolling for Kyune
>>
>>4144506
>inb4 20
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4144506
Whoops
>>
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>>4144510
>>
“What kind of stance is that?” You question. “You’ve got no flexibility.”

“Why don’t you find out?” Kyune taunts. “Attack me already.”

From Kyune’s movements, you guess that she favored a dextrous, precise approach to combat, the same as you. Well, you weren’t going to play her game. She was trying to keep you at length with her blade. Perhaps that was theoretically the safest approach considering you were faster, stronger, and more precise than her. With a flesh-and-blood body, combined with her slight frame, Kyune would always be at a disadvantage if she tried to trade blows evenly with you. The wisest approach was indeed to stay at a distance and avoid unnecessary conflict.

But sometimes, conflict couldn’t be avoided. Instead of going around Kyune’s guard like she was likely expecting to, you simply … power through it. With a single heavy strike, you send Kyune’s sword spinning through the air. It was too inelegant to even be called a disarmament. Really, you just applied so much brute force that Kyune’s slender fingers were forced to loosen. But in the end, it’s your sword at Kyune’s neck.

“Ah,” Kyune gasps in dismay, her normal blustering attitude gone. Hmm … that gasp almost sounded like a sound Kaguya would make.

>Like I said. Your stance is too brittle.

>Your approach had merit. But sometimes you have to brave conflict.

>You’re strangely cute when you lose.

>Another bout, Kyune-sama?
>>
>>4144544
>Your approach had merit. But sometimes you have to brave conflict.
>Another bout, Kyune-sama?
>>
>>4144549
this
>>
>>4144549
+
>>
“Your approach had merit. It’s safer to keep your distance from a physically stronger opponent.” You say in an attempt to take away the sting of such an abrupt defeat, “But you need to brave conflict to win.”

“Who made you my tutor?” Kyune snaps, “I’ll show you conflict.”

Kyune picks her sword up from the ground and raises it high above her head.

You can’t resist chuckling. With her sheer charisma and confident attitude, it was easy to forget how young Kyune was. When she loses her temper, you’re reminded that Kyune was still immature.

>Overwhelm her with powerful blows

>Strike her before he can strike back

>Test her defence, look for an opening
>>
>>4144651
An overhead stance should indicate an aggressive and powerful approach. What counters it though? I can't remember if we ever found out.

Let's go with
>Strike her before he can strike back
Since she seems to be neglecting defence this time around.
>>
>>4144651
>Test her defence, look for an opening
>>
>>4144651
>>Test her defense, look for an opening
>>
>>4144651
>>Test her defence, look for an opening
>>
>>4144651
>Strike her before he can strike back
>>
>>4144651
>Strike her before he can strike back
>>
Please roll 3 1d20's. You will need 3 successes.
>>
>>4144414
I homebrewed it myself. Kentaro's hit the ceiling for how skilled he can get, but you can improve yourself by gaining cybernetic upgrades.
>>
>>4145106
So, which option are we rolling for? It currently looks like a tie...
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4145106
>>
>>4145111
>>4145113
Sorry, I'm dumb. I neglected to count the votes properly.

If you want, I can roll to decide or we can wait for another voter. Dice rolled before this point won't be counted.
>>
>>4145121
Give it twenty to thirty minutes, then if there isn't any more votes, roll for it.
>>
>>4145134
That's a good idea. But I'll be gone for longer than that, so see you then.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

As I promised, I will now roll to see what option to go with. Note that usually, I will wait for a tie to be broken and that I am only rolling because I miscounted the vote and called for rolls early and didn't want anons to go back to waiting.

>1 - Strike her before she can strike back
>2 - Test her defences, look for an opening.
>>
Alright, now roll 3 1d20's. You will need 3 successes.
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>4145398
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4145398
>>
Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4145398
>>
Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4145398
So now she gets to kick our ass. Cool.
>>
Rolled 3 (1d6)

Rolling for Kyune
>>
>>4145109
With our new salary, can we afford upgrades? Considering the new role we're in and how potentially important it is, Re there any cyberware discounts? Is there some company armory we can pick from? Can we get some AP rounds for our gun, or a screw on suppressor? Sub-sonic ammo?
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4145437
Why do I keep doing this?
>>
>>4145438
You can file a request for anything from the company catalog free of charge as long as you can give a good justification for needing it. You can also order it online if you pay for it yourself and agree to have technicians look over it for any security issues. But I wouldn't advise purchasing anything unless you want to take on debt, your wallet's kind-of empty from hiring Neon.
>>
>>4145445
>A company-provided semiautomatic. As ubiquitous as they come. (13 ammo)
I cant imagine if there were anymore kinds of modifications we can get for the blade we carry, but what gear do we have tactical wise? Any body armor? Ballistic wave? Vests? Tactical vest under clothes? Do we have a combat knife? What does our gun look like? Can it fit in a discrete under jacket holster? What calibre? Can it fit a "smartlink" (aim assist cyberpunk thing)?
>>
>>4145448
>>4145448
Most gear is issued on an as-needed basis. As an enforcer, if you needed external body armor, you would be issued external body armor. If you needed a anti-tank rifle, you would be issued an anti-tank rifle. But aside from his semiautomatic and shirasaya, Kentaro's already well equipped. He's got subdermal ballistic armor, titanium bones, and a targeting system and HUD so advanced any kind of external aim-assist becomes unnecessary unless he's targeting something over the horizon.
>>
>>4145445
If we dont already have these, an under coat tactical vest, combat knife, AP rounds, and a laser sight dont sound too expensive for the company for us to request.

>>4145456
Oh! That's good to know then. What about ammo?
>>
>+2 Kentaro plays to his strengths of dexterity and precision
>-2 An overwhelming offense will overpower even the most perfect defense
>Failure

Kyune was aware of what your abilities relative to hers were. You decide to play it safe in case she had something out of your sleeve. You assume your standard stance and watch Kyune closely.

Kyune opens up with a powerful overhead blow … and another … and another. Before you know it, you’re struggling to keep up with her intensity. It’s obvious that Kyune’s angry at you. Every blow is ferocious, lacking any kind of restraint. But still, the technique itself is flawless. Even in her anger, Kyune never miss steps or miss times her blows.

You parry the first one easily. And the second. And the third. Her attacks keep coming, faster and faster. And still, Kyune keeps coming.

Strength-wise, you’re superior to Kyune and could parry her attacks all day long. You’re tired. You don’t tire physically anymore. And you can tell Kyune was starting to exhaust herself. Her breathing is labored, she’s starting to hunch over and lean into her attacks too much. But you catch a glimpse of her eyes, and they’re filled with murder.

Is she … trying to kill you? That isn’t right. This is just a sparring match, right? But Kyune is attacking for real. With a real sword. Should you fight back? Should you kill Kyune before she kills you? In your moment of confusion, Kyune’s blade blazes past your guard and scrapes across your cheekbone, cutting through the thin layer of synthflesh before stopping on your subdermal armor.

The two of you freeze in place. A drop of blood drips off Kyune’s blade and hits the floor. Kyune slowly withdraws her sword, breaking the spell that held the two of you in place. You sigh in relief, letting out a breath you didn’t know you were holding in. Already, your cut is secreting sealant and healing itself. You probably won’t even have a noticeable scar by the end of the week.

Kyune breathes in deeply to compose herself. She flicks her blade, sprinkling the tatami floor with the few droplets of blood on it’s edge. The floor around her is stained black where she’s stepped. Several ink-black patches of sweat are slowly spreading through her navy blue kimono as well.

“That’s not fair.” Kyune says, “You hesitated at the end.”

>I-I concede. I was defeated. Splendid swordsmanship, Kyune-sama.

>Frag it, are you trying to kill me?

>I’ve decided that between the two of you, Kaguya-sama is cuter.

>Do all plutocrats sweat black?

>Come to think of it, shouldn’t you be in school right now instead of playing with swords?
>>
>>4145485
>>Do all plutocrats sweat black?
>>
>>4145457
You have to request the more exotic kinds on an as-needed basis. The armory department isn't going to hand out ap rounds willy-nilly like they're tic-tacs. Standardization is cheaper.
>>
>>4145485

>Do all plutocrats sweat black?
>>
>>4145485
>Do all plutocrats sweat black?
>Come to think of it, shouldn’t you be in school right now instead of playing with swords?
>you seemed a bit furious in your strikes. Why?
>>
>>4145485
>>Do all plutocrats sweat black?
>I’ve decided that between the two of you, Kaguya-sama is cuter.
>>
>>4145485
Did you try to lose on purpose, anons?

>Were you trying to kill me?
>I’ve decided that between the two of you, Kaguya-sama is cuter. She never tries to kill me.
>Do all plutocrats sweat black?
>>
>>4145485
>...Are you trying to kill me? Was I really that harsh?
>Do all plutocrats sweat black?
>>
>>4145527
+1
>>
>>4145485

>I’ve decided that between the two of you, Kaguya-sama is cuter
>>
Vote called, writing.

Combination between >>4145486, >>4145495, and >>4145527.
>>
“Frag it, were you trying to kill me?” You swear.

Kyune tilts her head. “You’re not that badly hurt, are you, Kentaro-kun? I hope you’re not upset over such a small scratch. I’ve read your file. You’ve been gutted on three separate occasions, haven’t you?”

You sigh. “I’ve decided that between the two of you, Kaguya-sama is the cuter one. At least she never tries to kill me.”

Kyune laughs. “Well, I thought that was a given. It’s kinda unfair to compare me to Kaguya, ya know? But really, this fight only shows the difference between the two of us.”

“What do you mean?”

“You can easily overwhelm me in terms of strength. But you can’t overwhelm me in terms of intensity.” Kyune explains herself, “You were fighting to win. But I was fighting to kill. In a duel between two swordsmen with comparable skill, the fight boils down to a clash of their killing intent. When that’s how it is, it’s the difference in mindset that matters.”

You snort derisively. “That’s just theory. In a real fight, the only thing that matters is whether you can hit your opponent or not.”

“You still lost.” Kyune simply points out before sighing in exhaustion and kneeling down on the floor.

“You’re pretty worn out.” You say.

“Thought that was pretty obvious.” Kyune languidly replies.

“You’re staining the floor black.”

“That’s a problem for the maids.”

“Do all Plutocrats sweat ink?”

“You’re getting pretty cheeky for a retainer.” Kyune says.

You bow. “I apologize, Kyune-sama.”

“No, no. You’re not a naturally uptight person, Kentaro. So don’t try to be when you don’t need to … Anyways, to answer your question, we Plutocrats purge our bodies of the various toxins we absorb from the environment through our bodily excretions. Other people, if they’re lucky, have cybernetic filters grafted onto their kidneys. If they’re unlucky, they store it in their fat until they keel over. But not us. We sweat and piss it out and are none the worse for wear for it.”

“I see.” You nod.

>Do you intend to continue sparring?

>Should I get something to drink? Or a towel?

>Wait silently for Kyune to get up
>>
>>4145849
>Should I get something to drink? Or a towel?
get something for you and Kyune
>>
>>4145849
>Do you intend to continue sparring?
>Should I get something to drink? Or a towel?
>>
>>4145849
>Should I get something to drink? Or a towel?
>Do you intend to continue sparring?
>>
>>4145849
>Do you intend to continue sparring?
>Should I get something to drink? Or a towel?
>>
>>4145849
>Do you intend to continue sparring?
>Should I get something to drink? Or a towel?
>>
>>4145849
>>Do you intend to continue sparring?
>>Should I get something to drink? Or a towel?
>>
“So, do you intend to continue sparring?” You ask Kyune.

“You’re merciless, you know?” Kyune groans from where she’s lying on the floor, “Gimme a second, not everyone’s made of steel like you.”

You’re really mostly titanium and composite carbon-based materials where you aren’t muscle and synthflesh, but whatever.

“I’ll get you something to drink. And a towel.” You turn around to leave.

“No.” Kyune says, grabbing your ankle. “Stay here. Call a maid to bring a drink.”

“As you say.” You acquiesce, “What should I tell them to bring?”

“Strawberry soda … and a towel.”

“Understood.” You send the mental command.

“What’s with the look on your face?” Kyune demands grumpily.

>Nothing.

>I’m amazed you think you’re still in a state to spar.

>Strawberry soda? That’s … a bit childish.

>Your attitude’s pretty different than how it was a moment ago.
>>
>>4146308
>Nothing
>try not to say anything
>fail miserable
Orange soda is a superior soft drink
>>
>>4146308
>>Nothing.
>>
>>4146322
support
>>
“What look?” You ask.

“That smug look. What is it?”

“I don’t think my face looks any different than how it usually does.” You say, trying to keep a straight face.

Kyune props herself up into a reclining position and shoots you a death glare. It seems that she’s regained her energy. “I’m not a child, I can tell a smirk when I see one. Don’t make me choke it out of you.”

“It’s nothing!” You swear, “... except … seriously? Strawberry soda?”

“What? Do you have a problem with strawberry soda? Think it’s childish?” Kyune demands.

“Of course not! It’s just that orange soda is clearly better.”

“Kentaro … what the fry did you just say? You better have not insulted strawberry soda.” Kyune says in a low, menacing voice. You can tell that she’s only teasing you from her eyes. You saw just recently what they look like when she’s really angry.

You raise your hands in surrender. You had made your point. If Kyune wanted to continue drinking her own brand of carbonated fruit syrup, that was fine with you.

“Pardon me.” A voice says from behind the sliding door. You see the silhouette of a maid carrying a tray. “I have the towels and strawberry soda that were ordered …”

“Just leave them outside the door.” Kyune calls. The maid bows, deposits the tray, then leaves. “Kentaro, if you please …”

“If that is Kyune-sama’s wish.” You say with just drily enough to make it obvious you were being sarcastic. You retrieve the tray, which carried a towel as well as a bottle of some fizzy, pink liquid and a glass cup that looked more appropriate for a crystal decanter set. You stare at the bottle, slightly confused. Was this really strawberry soda? You’ve only ever seen it in cans before.

“Frying finally.” Kyune exclaims, grabbing the towel and relievedly wiping her forehead free of the black-tinged sweat. “Hey Kentaro, flip open the tray’s legs?”

“What do you mean … ah.” The tray was cunningly designed to have pop-out legs, turning it into a low table of sorts.

“Pretty fancy, huh?” Kyune exclaims, pulling herself into a cross-legged position.

“Absolutely high-class.” You mutter to yourself.

“Goddamn right.” Kyune says, popping open the bottle of strawberry soda, “Why don’t you sit down, Kentaro? Enjoy life a bit. Have some strawberry soda.” In a surprisingly graceful motion, Kyune fills the glass halfway before presenting it to you with two hands.

“T-thanks.” You say. You weren’t going to refuse. You take a small sip, before frowning in surprise. It was sweet. But … how to say this? Sweet in a way you had never tasted before. “What is this?”
>>
“It’s made from real strawberries.” Kyune explains, taking a long swig straight from the bottle. “Doubt you’ve ever tasted them before. That glass probably costs more than what you make in a month.”

“You don’t say …” You muse, examining the glass in your hand.

“So? How does that compare to the excuse for corn syrup you call orange soda?” Kyune asks, grinning in victory.

“It’s … good.” You have to admit. “But … it’s a bit high-class for my tastes …”

>Any questions or insubordinate, snide comments for Kyune?
>>
>>4146912
>>Any questions or insubordinate, snide comments for Kyune?
I'm sure real orange soda is still superior to strawberry.
>>
>>4146910
>Supporting >>4146913
>Also ask about the circumstances of Toshi's disappearance.
>>
>>4146933
+1
>>
>>4146912
What is our ward doing at this moment? Is she being tutored or doing her archery lessons? I wonder if she would be interested in the collection tion of old timey games we have collected.
>>
>>4147263
She's at the archery hall right now.
>>
“I'm sure real orange soda is still better than strawberry.” You stubbornly insist.

Kyune snorts. “Have you ever even tasted a real orange before?”

“In a sim, yeah.” You say.

“That hardly counts. From what I’ve heard, the sims we have are barely on the level of reality.” Kyune scoffs, “Full sensory immersion my ass.”

“They feel almost real.” You insist.

“Then I guess you’ve almost tasted an orange.” Kyune shoots back.

“All right, all right.” You lift your hand, admitting defeat. “Anyways, I have a more serious question for you.”

“Go ahead.” Kyune leans forwards, “What’s on your mind? Wondering what real fruit tastes like?”

“No,” You shake your head, “I was wondering if you knew anything about how Kaguya’s previous bodyguard disappeared.”

Kyune’s expression immediately becomes serious. “Have you been mentioning him around Kaguya?” She demands.

“No.” You shake your head.

“Good.” Kyune relaxes. “Toshi, huh? Well, to be honest, I really know that much about how or why he disappeared. One day he was here, the next, he was gone. Completely dropped off the grid. He didn’t even pack up his belongings, except for his sword. And now we have no idea where he went. Hell, I’m not even sure he’s still in Noir. Or alive.”

You nod. “I see. You don’t know much more about his disappearance than anyone else.”

“Pretty much.” Kyune agrees, “I didn’t really even know him that well … Oh, and a word of advice, Kentaro?”

“Yes?”

Never mention Toshi to Kaguya.” Kyune warns, the deadly serious look back on her face.

“I understand.” You promise.

Kyune gets up again. “Now, do you wanna go for another bout?”

“As much as I’d like to, there isn’t enough time left for me.” You apologize. “There’s only a few minutes until I have to return to Kaguya’s side.”

“Is that so? Damn, I hardly noticed the time passing.” Kyune shrugs. “Another time then … But you know what? I’m gonna tag along with you. I feel like dropping in on Kaguya …”

“I’m sure Kaguya will be happy to see you.”

The two of you exit the kendo hall and walk down to the archery hall, passing by a maid who bows as the two of you walk by. You’re struck by how relaxed Kyune is in your presence compared to Kaguya. But really, she might have just been a more laid-back person.

>Roll 3 1d20’s. You will need 2 successes.
>>
Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4147446
>>
Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4147446
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4147446
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4147446
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

Rolling for your opponent
>>
>Critical success

“Look out!” You shout, tackling Kyune to the floor. You don’t know how you could tell she was in danger, but two blades fly through the space she would have been.

“What the fry?” Kyune swears, rolling to her feet, drawing her katana. The maid you had passed by’s yukata was hanging in shreds around it’s waist, torn apart by the unsheathing two half-meter long blades at the end of two elongated extra limbs extending from open panels in it’s fake torso. It’s arm segmented and telescoped to nearly two meters, it’s palms splitting to reveal two shorter blades.

Select Kentaro’s armament

>Draw your shirasaya

>Draw your pistol

>Draw both of them
>>
>>4147564
>Draw both of them
>>
>>4147564
Also it's pretty notable that we didn't recognize the maid was a robot. The sexbots in the setting should be top-notch.
>>
>>4147564
>>Draw both of them
>>
>>4147564
>>Draw your shirasaya
>>
>>4147564
>Draw both of them
>>
You draw both your semiautomatic and shirasaya before sending a mental request for help.

The drone assassin disguised as a maid stumbles forwards clumsily. You’re not surprised that it’s top-heavy, with it’s long arms, but only human legs.

>Charge in with your sword

>Guard yourself with your sword and take careful shots with your pistol

>Back up for room to aim properly with your pistol
>>
>>4147672
>>Guard yourself with your sword and take careful shots with your pistol
>>
>>4147564
>Draw both of them
AKIMBO
>>
>>4147672
>Guard yourself with your sword and take careful shots with your pistol
>Turn on thermal vision to find the hottest part and shoot that
It will be the battery, the CPU or some other critical part.
>>
>>4147672
>Guard yourself with your sword and take careful shots with your pistol
Put out an alert and back out in the general direction of Kaguya with Kyune in tow. I dont know how authentically capable she is in combat, but I feel she should run to her cousin while we distract this robot to both protect her and consolidate assets?
>>
Roll 3 1d20's. The rolls in sequential order will be for your sword, pistol, and request for help.
>>
>>4147672
>Guard yourself with your sword and take careful shots with your pistol
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4147700
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4147700
>>
Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4147700
ORA!
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

Rolling for Spider Maid
>>
>>4147731
Man. It'd be nice if we could get holdout blades in our arms.
>>
>>4147738
possible future upgrade
>>
>>4147738
>>4147740
You would sacrifice a not-insignificant amount of precision and strength in that arm.
>>
>>4147754
Then, maybe a wrist mounted external hidden blade
>>
>+1 Kentaro plays to his strengths of dexterity and precision
>+1 A careful guard absorbs even the most unorthodox attacks
>-2 The Spider-Maid has a few blades too many
>The Spider-Maid’s attacks are successfully FENDED OFF

>+1 Kentaro has a steady hand and precise aim
>+2 A thermal reading reveals the Spider-Maid’s critical components
>+3 It’s impossible to miss this close up
>Kentaro’s shots HIT

>Kentaro’s call for help is JAMMED

You frown. For some reason, you couldn’t connect to the household network. The Spider-Maid must be jamming your connection. Then you’d have to find a way to defeat it with what was on hand.

The Spider-Maid’s multiple bladed appendages are quicksilver blurs. A pop-up in the periphery of your vision gives their individual speed at exactly 335.34 meters per second. You just about keep up with such paltry speeds with your HUD-assisted aim. There is a clear ringing sound as you deflect and parry the Spider-Maid’s attacks with your shirasaya.

A quick thermal scan reveals the Spider-Maid’s most critical components. As soon as you spot an opportunity, you unload your semiautomatic into the Spider-Maid’s torso.

>Kentaro uses 5 bullets

You must have hit something critical because the Spider-Maid collapses almost as soon as you start firing. It wasn’t surprising. For so many components to be packed into such a small frame, there probably wasn’t that much room for redundancy.

But suddenly, with the last bit of power in it’s circuit’s, the Spider-Maid launches itself through the air at Kyune.

>Let it pass

>Block it with your body

>Cut it out of the air (2 successes required)
>>
>>4147812
>Block it sith our body but still try to cut it out of the air
>>
>>4147812
>Block it with your body
How many spare magazines is Kentaro allowed to carry on his person? A larger magazine size to his gun wouldnt cost an arm and a leg.

>>4147830
This
>>
>>4147849
He can carry as many as he wants as long as he still looks presentable. Gameplay-wise, I'll limit it to five.
>>
>>4147830
+1
>>
>>4147849
If we're expected to carry our gun covertly, an extended mag is out of the question.
>>
Roll 3 1d20's. You will need 2 successes.
>>
Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4147902
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4147902
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4147902
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

Rolling for Spider-Maid
>>
You step in front of the Spider-Maid as soon as it launches itself, It bowls you over with it’s momentum, forcing you to the floor. In turn, you sink your shirasaya up to it’s hilt in its chest. The Spider-Maid goes limp.

“Kentaro, are you okay?” Kyune asks in a concerned voice.

“Just about.” You answer, pushing the Spider-Maid off of yourself. Kyune grabs your hand and helps you to your feet. You spot Kaguya’s archery tutor approaching, followed closely behind by Kaguya. His face pales as soon as he glimpses the Spider-Maid.

“W-what is that?” Kaguya’s Archery Tutor asks.

“Some kind of assassin drone.” Kyune replies, “Don’t worry, it’s dead.”

“I-I see.” he nods.

“Kaguya’s lesson’s over for today.” Kyune informs him authoritatively, “We’ll need to sweep the area, so you stay put as well.”

“U-understood.” The Tutor nods.

Kaguya slowly approaches. She stares at the grotesque body of the Spider-Maid with fascination, as well as more than a tinge of worry.

“Did you and Kentaro-kun … kill ...” She timidly asks, struggling to find the appropriate vocabulary.

“Kentaro took care of it too quickly for me to do anything.” Kyune says, before clapping you on the shoulder. “Good work. I’d be missing a limb without you.”

“Or dead?” You correct with a wry smile.

“Very possibly.” Kyune admits.

Kaguya gives you a very respectful bow “In that case, please accept my sincere thanks for safeguarding our wellbeing.”

“Yes. Thank you, Bodyguard-san.” Kaguya’s Archery Tutor follows suit.


Interlude

>Ad for Kabushiki Kawaii model Sexbot
>Kaguya and Kyune’s first conversation, five years ago
>>
>>4148028
>Ad for Kabushiki Kawaii model Sexbot
>>
>>4148028
>>Ad for Kabushiki Kawaii model Sexbot
>>
>>4148028
>Ad for Kabushiki Kawaii model Sexbot

>>4147896
The extended magazine itself doesnt have to be loaded into the bun if its gonna stick out. It could be attached to the holster perhaps.
>>
>>4148028
>Ad for Kabushiki Kawaii model Sexbot
>>
Introducing Azuki, the newest girl hot off Kabushiki Kawaii’s assembly lines. Just look at that cute body. She’s made with only the highest quality synthskin and synthmuscle body, she’s unbelievably real to the touch … and ready for fun right out of the box.

“Hi. My name’s Azuki desu. Nyah~. You can adjust everything from my clothes to my hair to the pleasure and pain I feel. Don’t like catgirls? Don’t worry! My ears and tail are fully replacable, whether you like elf girls or succubus girls or even want me to look just like your ex. My voice was made from a blend of over 100 actors, so you can make me sound sugary sweet or husky and sultry and anything in between. I come with a selection of 10 personalities, including popular archetypes like the catgirl, schoolgirl, maid, little sister, and the classic Tsundere, each affected by a fully adjustable innocence/sluttiness meter.”

Azuki-chan is the latest addition to Kabushiki Kawaii’s proud tradition of making the cutest sexbots on the market. She’s available for you right now for the low, low price of 5000 Sincreds, as well as rentable for the night from various pleasure dens all across Noir. Dancing, cooking, advanced roleplaying, Dominatrix, Submissive, foreign language, and procedural learning modules are sold separately. Kabushiki Kawaii is not responsible for any injuries from playing with any of their sexbots.

“Hey, you look cute. Why don’t you show me the inside of your apartment? In return, I’ll let you inside … me! Come on, hurry up. I can’t wait~”


A bowl of peanuts hits the tiny bar ceiling monitor where the ad was playing.

“None of us here could ever afford you anyways.” You drunkenly slur, “Hey Deckard, why don’t you play some ads we can actually fragging care about, you corporate shill.”

“It pays the bills.” The bartender shoots back, “You think I pay for this place with how cheap your drinks are?”

“Shut the frag up!” The man besides you yells, “I’m trynna fragging watch.”

Interlude Out
>>
In the end, several black-suited Household Guards had arrived to clean up the situation. Kyune greeted them by name so you knew they weren’t disguised assassin-drones. Besides, their certifications checked out. They took away the body of the Spider-Maid before commencing a thorough sweep of the wing as well as promising to check for any holes in security throughout the rest of the mansion. Within minutes of seeing that your suit was ruined from your fight with the Spider-Maid, you were brought a fresh one. All things considered, you and Kaguya were allowed to continue your day as usual once the security sweep was finished.

Which led you to where you were now: Sitting at a table in the staff lounge and eating lunch with Akira while Kaguya finished her class.

“Seriously, it was so surprising!” Akira complains as she describes her day to you, “A whole bunch of black-suited guys came into the room we were in, holding these funny wands and demanding we stay still while they ‘scanned’ us or something … Honestly, was there some big incident earlier today or something?”

“There was.” You admit.

“Seriously?” Akira exclaims, leaning over on the table. “What happened? Were you involved? Is that why you smell kinda like oil?”

“I’m not at liberty to say … wait, do I smell like oil?” You sniff yourself. Frag, you did.

“I could only smell it because the air around here usually smells so clean.” Akira says, “Otherwise, it’s not noticeable at all.”

“I see …” You nod, before picking up another bite of salmon with your chopsticks. Akira watches the morsel of food all the way from the plate to your mouth, before staring at the reconstitued excuse for food in her own boxed lunch and giving a barely audible sigh. Come to think of it, you’ve been noticing her stare at your lunch more and more the past few days.

>Offer to share some of your lunch

>Share some of your lunch, but take an equal amount of hers

>Don’t share your lunch, maintain an appropriate amount of distance
>>
>>4148682
>Share some of your lunch, but take an equal amount of hers

Fairs fair succubus
>>
>>4148682
>>Share some of your lunch, but take an equal amount of hers
>>
>>4148682
>Share some of your lunch, but take an equal amount of hers
Theres something comforting about the old synth food.

Can we send out a message to some of the house guards asking how much they are allowed go tell us about what they learned about the robot? I'm curious. Like was it remotely controlled and if there was some signal or data trail that can be used to trace it back. Make and model number on it? Warrant/insurance stickers or bar codes? Something buggy about the A.I.? What's the model number (if its there) and what corporation products ed it so we can crossrefernce through them as to where and when it was purchased, and by who/whatever alias, considering this is Cyberpunk and you can bet your ass that someone used a Fake ID to purchase it? Can we take some of the weapons off the robot as a trophy? Do they plan to scrap it or refurbish it to utilize, or would repairs be too expensive? Are they going to check security footage/sensors to determine when it was slipped in or if there has been any tampering with the security system that would give the drone the time to slip in? Just how long has it been inside the compound? Did it have some rudimentary ID and persona AI to come off as someone that belonged here at first glace? Did they find any items in or on the android of interest (kimono, fan, ID, grenades? Are there any finder prints, DNA samples?
>>
>>4148682
>Share some of your lunch, but take an equal amount of hers

I wonder if we can expect a raise.
>>
You sigh.

“Here. Take a bite of whatever you want.” You offer, pushing forwards your plate.

“R-really?” Akira squeaks, “B-but I can’t. That’s your own food, Kentaro.”

“Don’t think you’re getting it for free.” You warn, “Here, gimme your fruit cup.”

“A-alright.” Akira says, passing you her fruit cup before grabbing a piece of chicken from your plate. “This definitely isn’t an equivalent exchange though …”

“Says who?” You ask, peeling open the fruit cup. “There’s something comforting about the old synth food anyways.”

“I-If you say so.” Akira says, gingerly popping the piece of chicken in her mouth. Her face immediately scrunches up in delight. “Wow, this is delicious! Thank you, Kentaro! This is the first time I’ve tasted real … what is this actually? I don’t know, ahaha!”

“It’s chicken.” You tell Akira, before sampling some of the so-called fruit in Akira’s fruit-cup. Now more than ever, you’re struck by how fake it tastes. Really, it’s just a cube of fructose and compacted gelatin colored with an inexpensive food-dye and immersed in sweetened corn syrup.

“Excuse me for disturbing your lunch.” A man in the uniform of the household guard steps forwards to your table. “Are you Seido Kentaro?”

“That’s right.” You reply, putting down your chopsticks. “And you are?”

“Sota Takahiro.” He says, flashing a pale-blue passcard near-identical to yours. “I work for Muramoto-san. He wishes to meet you.”

“Which one?”

“The younger one.” Ah. Kyune’s father then. In your two weeks of working in the Muramoto Household, you haven’t even seen a glimpse of him.

“Alright, you have me.” You say, getting up, “I’ll put myself in your care then.”

“I’m honored. Please follow me.”

Once you’re out of the staff lounge, Takahiro tries to make small talk. You politely oblige.

“I heard you transferred here right off of street work, Seido-san.”

“facility-raiding and mid-tier strong-arm work, really.” You clarify.

“I see … still, it’s quite the jump, isn’t it? I’ve never heard of that happening to anyone before.”

“Honestly, I haven’t either.”

Takahiro leads you up several staircases and down several corridors. You pass by Kaguya’s suite before moving deeper into the Upper-West Wing.

“How are you finding working for Household?”

“It’s much more comfortable than I ever expected to be.” You answer honestly. A day earlier, you would have mentioned it being a bit dull as well, but after the events of today, you really couldn’t say that anymore.

“I bet. I remember being holed up in a cramped apartment back down in the city … Anyways, I’m glad you’re already getting used to this place after such a short time. Already having fun with Hosoda-san, I see …”

“Huh?” The tone of Takahiro’s voice confuses you. “You know Hosoda-san as well?”
>>
“Yeah.” Takahiro nods, “Akira-chan, right? She’s a fun girl. Incredible to tumble. Bouncy. A bit cheap-feeling, though … Of course, you already know, right?”

You stop in your tracks. “Come again?”

“Aren’t you sleeping with her?” Takahiro asks confusedly, “Ah, I must have misunderstood … but the way you were sitting together, sharing food … I thought that girl already made a deal with you.”

“That’s not the case.” You slowly say.

“Ah.” Takahiro gives a slight bows in apology. “I’m sorry for the misunderstanding … but just so you know, Hosoda-san is one of the biggest sluts in the Household. And I mean that literally. She’s probably been fragged by half of the men working in the Household, and pleasured half of the remainder in one way or the other. It’s all to supplement her income as a maid, of course, although why she needs such a large disposable income is beyond me. But who knows what silly things women use up their money on?”

>”I see.” Don’t talk to Takahiro for the rest of the trip, or you might lose your temper.

>”Tell me more.” Sickened as you are, you’re slightly curious about these circumstances.

>”Takahiro-san, you’re twice her age. Do you feel no shame?.”

>”Don’t ever talk so disrespectfully about one of my friends ever again.”

>Challenge Takahiro to a duel right here and now.
>>
>>4148958
>”I see.” Don’t talk to Takahiro for the rest of the trip, or you might lose your temper.
The specific phrasing sounds like gossip and slander. Let's not react though, or we can become a subject of gossip ourselves.
If she propositions us, we'll know for sure. But right now there's no reason to believe him nor to get upset over the allegations. It's not like we're waifuing her yet
>>
>>4148973
+1
>>
Also I thought Kyune's father was the older one since she's the heir?
>>
>>4148958
>>”I see.” Don’t talk to Takahiro for the rest of the trip, or you might lose your temper.
>>
>>4148958
>”I see.” Don’t talk to Takahiro for the rest of the trip, or you might lose your temper.
>>
>>4148973
You makes a whole lot of sense
>This<
>>
>>4148982
Nice catch anon, I'm retarded. I guess I'll commit sudoku then.

Maybe I should stop writing updates when I should be sleeping instead.
>>
>>4148958
>”Tell me more.” Sickened as you are, you’re slightly curious about these circumstances.
>>
File: RangakuSuite.jpg (649 KB, 1920x1138)
649 KB
649 KB JPG
“I see.” You don’t say anything further, even though you’re fuming inside. You refuse to believe that the sweet, clumsy girl you knew was someone who would willingly be degraded to the point of selling herself. But there wasn’t anything malicious about Takahiro’s speech, he was probably just passing off slander he had heard, so you would let him off this time. Sensing that he has upset you somehow, Takahiro drops the conversation for the rest of the journey.

“We’re here.” Takahiro announces once he’s led you into an antechamber. In sharp contrast to the rest of the manor, the room here is built in a fusion between traditional and western styles. Takahiro knocks on a closed door decorated with a gorgeous mural of a peacock. “Lord Muramoto, I’ve brought your daughter’s bodyguard.”

With a low beep, the muralled door slides open.

“Send him in.” A languid voice drawls.

You step into a dark, smoke-filled room. The air inside is heavy with an aromatic, heady scent. As soon as you take a breath, a toxicity warning flares to life in the periphery of your vision. You pass by an elegant mahogany table crammed with empty and half-empty bottles of expensive liquor as well as traces of a white powder.

“Come closer.” The rich, soft, languid voice beckons you towards a wide, canopied bed obscured by heavy veils, behind which you see two figures reclining, a male one and a female one. An ornate hookah sits on a stand right next to the bed, it’s thin tube snaking behind the veil. “What is your name?”

“S-Seido Kentaro.” You stutter. You can feel your hair standing on end from that melodious voice, as well as an involuntary rushing of blood to your groin. It seriously creeps you the frag out. So this was Kaguya’s father.

“Seido Kentaro … What an unsophisticated name. So, Mr Kentaro … I hear you saved my niece’s life today …”

“T-that’s correct.”

“I suppose I owe you my thanks then.” The male figure blows out a plume of smoke which slowly diffuses through the veil to add it’s toxic, intoxicating aroma to the air. “But risking your life for anyone other than your Master … Tut tut, Mr Kentaro. Don’t you have any professional pride? What would my poor Kaguya do if something were to happen to you?”

“I-”

“A rhetorical question, Mr Kentaro.” Mr Muramoto interrupts you, “However, I want to be absolutely sure the one I put my daughter’s safety in understands what his priorities should be … so tell me, Mr Kentaro? To whom do you owe your loyalty?”

As soon as you understand Mr Muramoto’s question, you feel a shiver down your spine. You understand that right now, what will happen to you in the future will depend on how you answer this question.

>The corporation, to which you owe your skills and livelihood

>The one who you swore fealty to, Lady Kaguya

>As a professional, whoever is your employer
>>
>>4149600
>What an unsophisticated name
Well, fuck you too buddy


>The one who you swore fealty to, Lady Kaguya
>>
>>4149600
There is a trap here somewhere, but I don't know where.
>The one who you swore fealty to, Lady Kaguya

>>4149609
Well, it does literally mean "Precision Swordguy"...
>>
>>4149600
>The one who you swore fealty to, Lady Kaguya
>>
>>4149600
>The one who you swore fealty to, Lady Kaguya
>If I may have permission to explain my lord. At the given moment, Lady Kyune was in danger, not Lady Kaguya. My plan was to defend if not outright disable the drone while we back track to Lady Kaguya's location so they both might be watched over. This way I would be able to guard them to the best of my abilities until further help arrived.
>>
Vote called, writing
>>
>>4149703
Muramoto seems to me like the kind of a man who hates being talked back to, however reasonable it may be. I'd like to vote against this.
>>
>>4149736
This is talking back to him? How?
>>
>>4149752
He told us we were wrong. Trying to justify our actions is talking back.
>>
>>4149760
Fair point
>>
“Lady Kaguya. I am her retainer, I would owe my loyalty to no one else.” You answer honestly.

There is a long silence as Mr Muramoto considers your answer.

“Really, Mr Kentaro, I was hoping you would be less naive.” He eventually says. His companion begins softly giggling. You find the gentle sound oddly grating. “Don’t be mistaken, Mr Kentaro. This household is a battleground, a den of snakes. Everyone here is full of deceit and venom, no one more so than my dear Niece. To survive here, you will have to be much more careful with who you give your loyalty to …” Mr Muramoto’s turns his interest to his partner, fondling her and eliciting soft moans. “The way you are now, you are of no use to me. You are free to go now, Mr Kentaro.”


Takahiro meets you at the door. He guides you back to the staff lounge. But by then, Akira is gone and your food has been cleared away. It is past the end of your lunch break anyways. You return to the common room you left Kaguya, only to find her alone and patiently waiting.

“Kentaro-kun, you’re late.”

“My deepest apologies.” You bow, “It won’t happen again.

“Please see that it doesn’t.” Kaguya says, staring at you as if gauging your sincerity. It’s subtle, but her voice sounds more high-strung than usual. She must be on edge after the incident today. However, her expression softens into one of concern. “Is something the matter, Kentaro-kun? You look troubled.”

>It’s nothing. Let’s just get you to your next class.

>Kaguya-sama, do you feel safe living in this household?

>Kaguya-sama, what do you think of your Father?
>>
>>4149780
>Kaguya-sama, do you feel safe living in this household?
I think shes worried about the weird knife drone incident earlier. Has this happened before?
>>
>>4149780
>Kaguya-sama, do you feel safe living in this household?
>>
>>4149780
>Kaguya-sama, do you feel safe living in this household?
>>
>>4149780
>Also say that maybe we should be present during her archery practice and other activities where we weren't before. If she becomes a target of something like that robomaid there's no way she could recognize the danger in time.
>>
>>4149780
>>Kaguya-sama, do you feel safe living in this household?
>>
>>4149780
>Kaguya-sama, do you feel safe living in this household?
>>
>>4149787
It is extremely unlikely for something like this to happen. The security in the manor is really top-notch.
>>
>>4149939
That's just more reason to worry, because somehow it _did_ happen regardless.
>>
“Kaguya-sama, do you feel safe living in this household?” You ask.

“Hmm … how should I answer this?” Kaguya muses … “I know that there are certain risks living here. But at the same time, there are people that I know I can rely on to keep me safe, like Kyune onee-chan and you, Kentaro-kun.”

You’re shocked by the maturity of Kaguya’s answer. And a little touched as well that Kaguya considered you so reliable. You swear that you will do your best to live up to her expectations.

“I’m honored you consider so reliable … Still, in light of the incident today, I think it would be wise for me to present during your classes for the time being so I can be close enough to protect you.”

“I agree.” Kaguya nods. In agreement, the two of you begin walking down the hallway. Even though it wasn’t strictly necessary, Kaguya had a tendency to change the rooms she met her tutors in halfway through the day. Even the stoic Kaguya-sama got tired of sitting in the same room every day. And it was an excuse for her to stretch her legs.

However, this time, you encounter someone on your journey. A forlorn looking small girl in a gorgeous western style dress is standing in the hallway, hugging a stuffed rabbit and looking at-loss at what to do. You immediately recognize her as Mr Muramoto’s daughter.

“Teru-chan?” Kaguya says, “Why are you alone? Where’s Seru-chan and Winslet-san?”

Teru hugs her rabbit harder. “I don’t know.” She mumbles.

>Step in as an adult

>Let Kaguya handle this
>>
>>4150022
Look to our lady. If she nods then I suppose?
>Step in as an adult
>>
>>4150022
>>Step in as an adult
>>
>>4150022
>>Step in as an adult
>>
>>4150022
>Step in as an adult
>>
>>4150022
>X-ray scan Teru in case she's a murderbot
>>
You look at Kaguya in a silent offer of assistance. Kaguya nods an okay.

“Hi there.” You kneel down so you’re eye-level “Teru-chan, wasn’t it?”

“Mmm-Hmm.” Teru nods. You’re struck by how much trust is in the small girl’s eyes. Growing up, you were taught to never talk, or even make contact with an adult you didn’t know. But after such a short time, this girl already trusted you completely. Feeling some paranoia from the incident before, you quickly give a thermal scan of Teru to make sure she isn’t another disguised assassin-drone. Everything you can read indicates that Teru is completely organic. She didn’t even have a port in her neck.

“Are you lost?” You ask in as gentle a voice as possible.

“No.” Teru gives a slight shake of her head, “I just don’t know where to go …”

Teru’s words confuse you. She definitely had a place she was supposed to be, a class or a defined place to play. But if she knew the way, then why didn’t she know where to go? “Teru-chan, don’t you have somewhere you should be?”

“Yes.” Teru mumbles.

Ah. You understand now.

“Did … you run away?”

“Yes.” Teru guiltily admits, burying her face in her stuffed rabbit’s head.

You sigh, then connect to the household network and make a request for Winslet’s channel.

[i”]Kentaro-kun? Have you found Teru?”[/i] You immediately get her message. Her voice rings in the inside of your head.

”That’s right. I found the lost princess. We’re in level two of the central complex.

”Thank goodness. I’ll be there right away. Can you keep an eye on her until then?”

”Fine with me.” You end the call, turning back to your so-called ‘little princess’. “Teru-chan, why don’t you come with us for now? I’m sure someone will show up looking for you sooner or later.”

“O-okay.” She says, timidly grasping your synthskin hand.

“Ready? Let’s set off, then!” Kaguya says encouragingly, before continuing down the hall. IImpressively for a girl her age, Teru easily keeps pace with the both of you.

“... Your hand feels funny …”

“Is that so? Would Teru-chan like to describe to me how?”

“It’s … rubbery.”

Well, just leave it to a Plutocrat child to be able to tell the difference between synthskin and the real thing. “I hope the feeling isn’t too strange.”

“No.” Teru squeezes your hand harder.

Kaguya leads you through and up an exotic flower garden built on a series of narrow terraces cut into the face of the mountain, stopping at a cool pavilion which was just high enough to peek over the manor’s wall and give a view of the mountainside all the way down to Noir.

“This is my favorite spot in the manor.” She explains as you enter the pavilion.

“Kaguya-chan. You’re late.” An irritated-sounding man sitting at a table scolds.

“My apologies, Fujikawa-san.” Kaguya bows, “I encountered company on the way.”
>>
“I see - oh!” Fujikawa-san’s gruff demeanor evaporates as soon as he spots Teru, overwhelmed by the wave of charm that accompanied the meeting of a small Plutocratic child for the first time. “And who’s this? Come to enjoy the flowers?”

“A pleasure making your acquaintance. Allow me to introduce myself as Teru Muramoto.” Teru curtsies cutely. Plutocrat child or no, if Winslet-san was the one responsible for teaching such a small child such good manners, then you’ve gained a lot more respect for the woman.

“A pleasure.” Fujikawa-san almost involuntarily plays along, getting up and giving a deep, formal, western-style bow. “But unfortunately, we will have to save further pleasantries for another day. Kaguya and I have quite a lot of work to do today.”

“Is it hard work?” Teru asks.

“Oh yes. Very hard ...”

You hurry Teru to the other end of the pavilion before she charms Kaguya’s tutor into giving up lessons altogether in favor of playing teatime. But now you were stuck with a problem. You had to entertain her until Winslet arrived.

>Just keep her out of trouble

>”So why did you run away?”

>”Hey, nice rabbit. What’s its name?”

>Wait, is that Kyune down there in the garden? Why is she picking flowers?
>>
>>4151060
>”Hey, nice rabbit. What’s its name?”
>>
>>4151060
>”Hey, nice rabbit. What’s its name?”
>While spying after Kyune
>>
>>4151060
>>”Hey, nice rabbit. What’s its name?”
>>
>>4151060
>”Hey, nice rabbit. What’s its name?”
Search up bunny facts to throw her way, like how there is/used to be really really big bunnies that exist.
>>
>>4151238
"Teru-chan, did you know that bunnies eat their own poo?"
>>
>>4151060
>Hey, nice rabbit. What’s its name?”
>>
>>4151087
+1
>>
“Hey, nice rabbit.” You say, gesturing at Teru’s stuffed rabbit, “What’s its name?”

“Hazel.” Teru answers, “He says he’s four years old.”

“Oh, I see. That would mean he’s 44 in rabbit years.” You say, quickly searching up a rabbit-human year calculator.

“No, he’s older …” Teru corrects you, “Rabbits can’t count past four.

“Ah … that’s right.” You say. You don’t know if that was correct, but you weren’t going to disagree with her. Judging from how worn out the rabbit looked, that rabbit certainly looked older than four.

“You know, there’s a rabbit on the moon.” You say, regaling Teru with the old fairy tale, “He’s always pounding the ingredients for mochi.”

“My favorite food is mochi …” Teru says. “Kaguya-onee must miss the mochi from the moon. She must miss her pet rabbit as well ...”

“Wait … Are you talking about our Kaguya?”

Teru nods. “Seru always says she’s not the Princess Kaguya from the moon. But she’s so pretty! Only my Mom is more pretty … and maybe Kyune-onee-sama.”

>You’re right. Kaguya’s the Kaguya from the moon.

>Sorry. Kaguya’s human just like the two of us.

>You kids get funny ideas. (Ruffle hair to distract her)
>>
>>4152185
>You’re right. Kaguya’s the Kaguya from the moon.
Regardless of what gets chosen, ruffle hair.
>>
>>4152185
>>You’re right. Kaguya’s the Kaguya from the moon.
>>
>>4152185
>You’re right. Kaguya’s the Kaguya from the moon.
>>
>>4152185
>You’re right. Kaguya’s the Kaguya from the moon.
>>
“You’re right.” You tell Teru, “Kaguya’s one and the same as Kaguya-hime from the stories.”

“I knew it! Kaguya really is the princess of the moon!” Teru exclaims. “That’s why she had to live in the city even though she was a princess, just like with the old Bamboo Cutter. Then when Uncle realized how beautiful she was, she came here to live in a palace like a real princess!”

You nod along with Teru’s excited babbling, not really following most of it although you manage to get the gist of it. When she calms down, you entertain her with a list of rabbit trivia that you pull off the net. You get the feeling that she already knows everything you’re telling her, but she still listens enthusiastically anyways.

It’s not long until Winslet comes to pick Teru up with Seru in tow.

“Thank you for watching Teru, Mr Seido. I’m sorry that you had to do so on such a short notice.” Winslet says.

“Oh no, it was no trouble at all. A pleasure, even.” You reassure Winslet. In the corner of your eye, you see Teru poking her tongue at her brother.

>Ask why she ran away

>Tell her how polite Teru was

>Comment on her interest in rabbits

>Ask her not to be too hard on the kids
>>
>>4152837
>>Ask why she ran away
>>Tell her how polite Teru was
>>
>>4152842
This

I guess once they're gone we can afford to do a little mediation while we wait for our lord to finish?
>>
>>4152837
>Tell her how polite Teru was
>Comment on her interest in rabbits
>>
>>4152837
>Tell her how polite Teru was
>>
I just realized that I should have been using sensei instead of san for referring to Kaguya's tutors.

Man, Japanese honorifics are tough. May anonymous forgive me for setting my quest in a weeb setting.
>>
>>4153498
After Akira straight up referred to us as -kun, this is nothing.
>>
>>4152837
>Ask why she ran away
>Tell her how polite Teru was
>>
>>4152842
supp
>>
“You should have seen how she greeted Fujikawa-sensei.” You say, “It’s impressive how polite Teru-chan is even though she’s so young.”

“Well, I’m glad to hear that Teru didn’t cause any trouble for you.” Winslet says, “Teru, is it true what Mr. Seido is saying?”

“Yes, it’s true Miss Winslet.” Teru replies rotely.

“Well, it’s good to find out you’re listening during our lessons on etiquette.” Winslet praises Teru, giving her a light pat on the head. Despite having been upset with Winslet earlier, Teru can’t help but smile from receiving the approval of her governess.

“What I’m wondering is why Teru-chan ran off in the first place.” You ask. The question had been on your mind since you found out Teru ran away in the first place. Maybe slowly learning more and more about the Muramoto family was making you more inquisitive. That rabbit hole went pretty deep.

“Oh, it wasn’t anything serious.” Winslet assures you, “Some nonsense about her stuffed rabbit … Now Teru, are you going to let go of it by yourself?”

Teru vehemently shakes her head. “His name is Hazel. And Hazel hates the washing machine. And the maids are too rough with him.”

“Aww, it’s just a stuffed bunny!” Seru exclaims, “You haven’t washed it ever since you got it. It stinks!”

“Hazel doesn’t stink!” Teru cries back, seemingly on the verge of tears. “... At least not for a rabbit.”

“Um … excuse me …” Kaguya intercedes from the other side from the pavilion. Despite not seeming to shout, her voice carries clearly from the other side of the pavilion. “If Teru-chan is willing to entrust Hazel-san into my care for a short time, I could perhaps give him a bath by hand.”

“Really?” Teru gasps in delight.

“I would be happy to.” Kaguya promises her.

“Well, Teru? What do you say?” Winslet prompts her charge, “Miss Suzuki’s offer is quite generous, isn’t it?”

Teru nods, then shyly walks up to Kaguya. “Thank you, Kaguya-onee.” Teru mumbles.

“I promise to return him as soon as possible.” Kaguya solemnly swears.

Teru quietly mumbles another few words of thanks, then scampers off. “Being bathed by Princess Kaguya herself … Hazel’s a lucky rabbit!”
...

You sit back for the rest of Kaguya’s classes. At first you listen to the questions being asked and the topics being discussed. But you quickly realize you have no idea what Kaguya and Fujikawa-sensei were discussing, something about micro-ruptures in quantum foam, whatever that was.

You decide to meditate to pass the rest of the day. But no matter how much you try to clear your mind, a niggling thought remains. Had there been a shadow of hurt when Winslet called Kaguya ‘Miss Suzuki’?

Eventually, Kaguya’s classes for the day end.

“Let’s head back, Kentaro-kun.” Kaguya says, clutching Teru’s rabbit close to her chest.
>>
>I’m surprised you know how to hand-wash a stuffed animal, Kaguya-sama

>Kaguya-sama, as much as it matters, I consider you as member of the Muramoto family

>When I said you’re like a princess from the moon, I meant it

>Say nothing. It’s the end of the day and both of you are tired.
>>
>>4153584
>>Kaguya-sama, as much as it matters, I consider you as member of the Muramoto family
>>I’m surprised you know how to hand-wash a stuffed animal, Kaguya-sama
>>
>>4153584
>I’m surprised you know how to hand-wash a stuffed animal, Kaguya-sama
If she doesn't actually know, would she like some help? As an (ex-) Enforcer I'm sure Kentaro knows all about cleaning blood and viscera out of his enforcer suits.
>>
>>4153585
>I’m surprised you know how to hand-wash a stuffed animal, Kaguya-sama
>>
>>4153585
>Kaguya-sama, as much as it matters, I consider you as member of the Muramoto family
>>
“I’m surprised that you know how to hand-wash a stuffed animal, Kaguya-sama. It’s hardly a skill a refined young lady like you would be taught.” You comment as the two of you walk back towards Kaguya’s room.

“It was something that was necessary to learn in the conditions I grew up in.” Kaguya answers. Conditions Kaguya grew up in? What did she mean? Hadn’t Kaguya always lived inside the walls of the Muramoto Manor?

“I see … well if you need any help, I have some experience washing stained fabrics too.”

Kaguya tilts her head in curiosity. “That isn’t a skill I expected a former enforcer like you to have, Kentaro-kun. You would have made enough with your salary to visit a laundromat, didn’t you?”

“That’s true, but that would be money I would be unable to spend on other things.” You laugh, “Actually, I learned what I needed to know before I became an enforcer.”

“I see. So Kentaro-kun is quite practical.” Kaguya nods. “The knowledge of how to wash clothes is a skill that can only be admired.”

The two of you arrive back at Kaguya’s suite.

“Please come in, Kentaro-kun.” Kaguya beckons you at the threshold.

“Kaguya-sama? Is it entirely appropriate for me to enter?”

“You’re my retainer, aren’t you?” Kaguya says, “Besides, how else are you going to help me wash Tewi’s rabbit?”

“I … see.” You say. You can’t get over the idea in your head that it was rude to invade a young girl’s living space. But well, if Kaguya said it was okay …

You immediately feel more comfortable when you find yourself in a large, well-decorated living room with stairs leading up to a higher level. A semicircle of couches sat in the center of the room, appearing like an island in the ocean when compared to the size of the room. Kaguya’s archery set was displayed on an ornate stand in the corner. That’s right. Kaguya’s suite was closer to a house than a bedroom. You’re struck by how lonely such a small girl would be living alone in such a large space.

“Please wait here while I get the cleaning supplies.” Kaguya says, rushing off. She’ll be back soon. But until then, you’ve been left alone in her massive living room.

>Sit on the couch and wait.

>You can see an adjoining kitchen. What food does Kaguya enjoy?

>Examine what’s on Kaguya’s display shelves.

>... Why is there what looks like a tactical knife sitting on her mantle?
>>
>>4154007
>Examine what’s on Kaguya’s display shelves.
>... Why is there what looks like a tactical knife sitting on her mantle?
>>
>>4154007
>>Examine what’s on Kaguya’s display shelves.
>>... Why is there what looks like a tactical knife sitting on her mantle?
>>
>>4154007
>Examine what’s on Kaguya’s display shelves.

>... Why is there what looks like a tactical knife sitting on her mantle?
>>
>>4154015
+1
>>
>>4154007
>Examine what’s on Kaguya’s display shelves.
Shameful anime merch? BL manga? Boys band posters?
>... Why is there what looks like a tactical knife sitting on her mantle?
>>
You take a look at the varied items displayed on Kaguya’s shelf. The shelves themselves were interesting, consisting of wooden frames of various sizes forming a graceful abstract pattern on the wall. However, most of the items seemed to have nothing to do with Kaguya. There were tons of antique porcelain, statues, and ornamental things you didn’t even know what to call. They looked like things you would pass by in a streetside antiques market, except genuine. However, what catches your eye is flower arrangements. One consisted of several branches of plum blossoms stuck into a glass vase, arranged tastefully to give the impression of a picture of a mountain. The other was … well, you knew next-to-nothing about flower arrangement, but even you could tell that this one was exceptional. Many kinds of flowers, from wildflowers to river reeds to exotic orchids, stuck out from an ornate traditional urn. But the way they presented drew your attention to a single, bloodred centipede lily which rose out from among the other flowers, giving the both the impression that it was both presiding over and isolated from the other flowers.

You look around the rest of the room for other items of interest … wait, was that a sheathed tactical knife on the mantle? It looked just like the Type-88 Tanto-point that was standard issue for enforcers. Actually, you’re pretty sure it is one. You’re sure you have yours at the bottom of a trunk somewhere. The Type-88 was a good combat knife, although admittedly pretty useless when half your opponents you were going to face had knife-resistant subdermal armor.

“Kentaro-kun.” Kaguya walks back into her living room, carrying a full wash basin as well as a bag of cleaning supplies. “Did you find anything interesting in my living room?”

>Your knife … You have good taste, Kaguya-sama.

>Those flower arrangements. Did you do them?

>I wouldn’t know what to do if I had a room as large as yours.

>Your … Whoa! Are you okay carrying that water basin?
>>
>>4154367
>>Your knife … You have good taste, Kaguya-sama.
>>
>>4154367
>Your knife … You have good taste, Kaguya-sama.
>Whoa! Are you okay carrying that water basin?
>>
>>4154367
>>Your knife … You have good taste, Kaguya-sama.
>>Those flower arrangements. Did you do them?
>>
>>4154370
+1
>>
Vote called, writing
>>
“Your knife …” You comment, “You have …”

“Kentaro-kun, please don’t touch that.” Kaguya interrupts you sharply, even though you are nowhere close to touching it. She hurriedly puts down her cleaning supplies and snatches the knife from the counter as if she doesn’t even want you to see it.

“Oh … alright.” You say. You could see the topic of the knife upset Kaguya.

“I’m sorry …” Kaguya apologizes, “I know that you didn’t mean anything, Kentaro-kun. It’s just … I guess my living room isn’t as ready to receive guests as I thought … We’ll start cleaning the rabbit soon. Just wait a little longer.”

Kaguya rushes upstairs with the knife, disappearing out of view.

>Maybe Kaguya will be impressed if you start washing the rabbit without her

>Kaguya will DEFINITELY be impressed if you finish washing the rabbit by the time she’s back (Hard Roll)

>Kaguya probably wants you to wait for her. Besides, your time will be better spent think about what to say to her (Write-In Required)
>>
>>4154719
>Kaguya probably wants you to wait for her. Besides, your time will be better spent think about what to say to her (Write-In Required)
Have you've ever played a game called Dungeons and Dragons?
>>
>>4154735
Alright, seems a bit random. Explain yourself.
>>
>>4154740
Well Kaguya no matter how proper she is, is still a child. It's also been hinted in previous threads that she used to living in the lower levels of the city, or as a "commoner." She also had some interest in the games we mentioned (I think). Maybe it might be worthy trying to find some common ground between her and Kentaro and talking about things they might have in common. I.e. games like table top, sci-fi, retro, etc.
>>
>>4154719
>Kaguya probably wants you to wait for her. Besides, your time will be better spent think about what to say to her (Write-In Required)
Tell her a funny story from our enforcer days. Choose something without violence.
>>
>>4154719
>>Kaguya probably wants you to wait for her. Besides, your time will be better spent think about what to say to her (Write-In Required)
That flower arrangement, the one with the lily, represents how you feel doesn't it?
>>
>>4154719
>>4154771
Switching to this immediately.
>>
It’s not long until Kaguya comes back downstairs. But the atmosphere between you two is now stilted and awkward. Kaguya carefully washes Teru’s stuffed rabbit without really paying attention to what she was doing. You’re left with nothing to do but sit back. Kaguya’s been growing more comfortable with you in the past two weeks, but you get the feeling that she had shown you a side of herself she hadn’t wanted to and was now temporarily closing herself off to you.

But how to make herself open up to you again?

“Kaguya-sama …” You break the silence between the two of you, “Mind if I speak?”

“Please don’t let me stop you.” Kaguya neutrally says.

“That flower arrangement on the shelf … the one with the lily, it represents how you feel, doesn’t it?”

>Roll 3 1d20’s to soften Kaguya’s shell. You will need 2 successes.

I really thought anons would take the hint with the knife being a standard-issue knife for Enforcers. But anyways, let’s see how good Kentaro is at smoothing things over.
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>4155145
>>
Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4155145
AUTISM POWERS GOOOO
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4155145
>>
>>4155148
>>4155180
>>4155195
We fucked up boys
>>
“That arrangement isn’t mine. It’s Kyune onee-chan’s arrangement. I wouldn’t be allowed to pick those centipede lilies.” Kaguya says. She seems no more open than before.

“I see. So they’re Kyune-sama’s.” You nod. Kaguya doesn’t seem to be in the mood to talk, so you leave her alone. When Kaguya isn’t paying attention to you, she’s so quiet and unobtrusive that she might as well not be in the room. You wonder why an innocent girl like her would ever develop a presence like hers. It went beyond simple shyness and into an intentional wish to not be noticed.
In the end, Kaguya finishes hand-washing the rabbit entirely by herself, leaving you with nothing to do but stew in silence.

“What about those flowers made you think of me though?” Kaguya asks you out of nowhere, while the two of you wait for the rabbit to dry.

“Kaguya-sama?” You’re taken by surprise by Kaguya’s question, rather, demand.

“I want to know, Kentaro-kun. Why did you think about me when you saw those flowers?”

“Well … How should I describe it?” How should you describe the feeling of regal loneliness the flower gave off tactfully? Should you even? “Well, I know nothing about flower arrangement, so I have no idea why they would make me think that way.”

“I see.” Kaguya disappointedly says. For the first time, you can clearly see what she is feeling from her expression. It is an expression that said I thought you would be able to understand me. But I obviously asked too much of you. But more than angry or disappointed, Kaguya looks hurt.

Eventually, the rabbit dries.

“Kentaro-kun, could you return the rabbit to Teru-chan?”

“Huh? Kaguya-sama, you’re not going to return it yourself?”

“I’m sorry …” Kaguya apologizes, “I need time to myself, I might not be able to deal with meeting anyone else today ... Thank you, Kentaro-kun.”

With Kaguya leaving no room for argument, you leave Kaguya’s suite with Teru’s rabbit in her arms. The journey to the part of the Upper-West Wing where the main part of Mr Muramoto’s family lived wasn’t a short one, and on the way, you pass by many maids that give strange stares, wondering why the tall, intimidating enforcer was carrying a stuffed rabbit in his arms.

When you reach your destination, the first thing you see is Teru sitting on a chair, impatiently swinging her feet. Her face lights up as soon as she sees you, but falls again when she sees that Kaguya isn’t with you.

“Where’s Kaguya-Onee?” She whines, a disappointed look in her eyes.

>She’s busy (Be vague)

>She’s a bit tired, so she’s taking a nap (Lie)

>She’s a bit upset right now (Be honest)

>Shouldn’t you be happier that Hazel’s back? (Distract, nuzzle her with rabbit)
>>
>>4155666
>>She’s a bit upset right now (Be honest)
>>
>>4155666
>She’s a bit upset right now (Be honest)
>>
Oh yeah what was Kaguya's roll btw?
>>
>>4155720
I've been assuming the DC is always at 10.
Man I still think we should've nerded out.
>>
>>4155666
>She’s a bit tired, so she’s taking a nap (Lie)
>>
>>4155722
That's right. DC is always 10 against someone or something is actively struggling against you.
>>
>>4155666
>She’s a bit upset right now (Be honest)
>>
>>4155849
+1
>>
“Kaguya’s a bit upset, right now?” You tell Teru.

“Why?” Teru asks with childlike frankness.

“Sometimes people get upset. It’s just what happens.” You say, adopting the vague tone of an adult trying to explain something to a child while avoiding any real explaining. “Anyways, she cleaned Hazel like she said she would. So? What do you think?”

Teru takes her rabbit back from you and nuzzles the back of it’s head. She still looks a bit dissatisfied. “Was it you who got Kaguya-onee upset?” She asks with armor-piercing directness.

You scratch the back of your head and hope Teru won’t be able to read the grimace on your face. “Well … she’s not angry at me, so I don’t think I’m at fault.”

“Princess Kaguya would never get angry though.” Teru insists, “She’s too gentle … Not like Kyune onee-chan.”

“Oh? Does Kyune-sama get scary when she’s angry?” You ask.

Teru nods. “Usually she just tickles … but sometimes, she’ll flick me and Seru’s forehead instead!”

You can imagine how scary an angry Kyune would be to a small child.

“Well, since I got Hazel-san home, I’ll be taking my leave now.” You say, turning around, only to be stopped by a small tug on the back of your shirt.

“Please tell Kaguya I said thanks for bathing Hazel.” Teru says.

“I will.” You promise.


You slowly wander back to your quarters. The day is over now. You’ll be left to your own devices until morning. Hopefully, Kaguya will be back to normal by then.

But when you open the door to your room, you find a surprise. On your living room table is a tray with a bottle of strawberry soda, as well as a note.

Hope you enjoy this bottle. I’ll have to acknowledge you saving my life formally some day. But until then, this will have to do.

Also, I have information to share with you. Meet me halfway up the mountainside road at midnight. The manor has too many places where someone might overhear us.

Throw out the note when you’re done with it.

- Kyune


What was Kyune planning, you wonder. What information did she have to share with you? Did it have to do with the attack today?

Well, whatever it was, you didn’t have to worry about it until tonight. But what would you do until then?

>Check on Kaguya to see if she’s feeling better

>Contact someone you know. You could use some company.

>Check the company catalog. You want to update your gear.

>Plug in and game the time away. (Essentially a timeskip)
>>
>>4155903
>>Check the company catalog. You want to update your gear.
>>
>>4155903
...it was Toshi's knife and I only realized it just now. I'm a big dumb.

>Eat the note, wash it down with the soda.
>Check on Kaguya to see if she’s feeling better
>>
>>4155910
Holy fuck yeah me too.
This, and if we're allowed to do anything else then
>Contact someone you know. You could use some company.
>Check the company catalog. You want to update your gear.
If we dont have to need in cyberspace with Neon then a simple message will suffice, but if privacy is a matter than do go talk to her.o
>>
>>4155903
>Check the company catalog. You want to update your gear.
>>
>>4155945
The next thread will feature Neon pretty heavily, so I'm going to ignore the other part. Otherwise, I'll combine the options since they seem pretty compatible.

Writing
>>
The first thing you need to do is get rid of the note. Throwing it out, even torn up, led to a risk of someone discovering and reading it. So instead you scrunch it up to a small pellet, swallow it, and wash it down with a swig of strawberry soda. Man, you just drank something that cost about what you make in a month. You smile derisively to yourself. You were living the high life here, weren’t you?

Well, the first thing you want to do with your time is check on Kaguya to see if she is feeling better now. You walk outside and rap gently on her door frame. No answer. After waiting a short while, you knock again, a little harder. But still, even after waiting even longer, the door doesn’t open. You consider calling her name, but if Kaguya really didn’t want to see you, that would only annoy her. You honestly still don’t understand why she had gotten so upset. Where had it started? First, you had asked her about that knife, and then … Wait … That knife …

With a groan, you slam your head against the wall. That knife … it had been Toshi’s hadn’t it? How had you not realized that sooner? You’ve been warned again and again not to bring him up and then … Frag, you were stupid.

You understand now that Kaguya was definitely not in a mood to see you, or anyone, no matter what, so you slink back to your room. You would just have to give her time and see if she returned to her normal self. If she didn’t then, well, you had no one else to blame did you? There was nothing you could do but wait.

But back to more serious issues. You pull up the company arms catalog you found the other day. The attack today had woken you up from the stupor you had been in ever since you’ve gotten used to life in the Manor. As comfortable as it seemed here, that also meant that your enemies were much harder to spot. You were lucky that the Spider-Maid today hadn’t been bulletproof. If you wanted to be ready for any threat, you would need to update your arsenal. If you compose a good-enough request, you might even get some of what you want.

Cybernetic Upgrades (Choose wisely)
>Concealable limb weapon (Decreases dexterity, increases unorthodoxy)
>Cyberwarfare package (Replaces installed aim-assistance package)
>Ectrodactyl hand (Increases dexterity, decreases grip strength)
>Upgraded Sensory Suite (Decreases ECM Hardening)

Firearms (Choose One)
>Short-Barreled Light Howitzer
>Suitcase-concealed Microauto
>Flechette Catapult (Requires specialized ammunition)

Ammo (Choose Two)
>Explosive (Incompatible with lighter calibers)
>Hypervelocity Armor-Piercing (Wears out gun)
>Manshredder (Ineffective against armor)
>Spreadshot (Even more ineffective against armor)

Fighting Knives (Chose One)
>Monomolecular Wakizashi
>Concealable Wristblade
>Swiss Multitool
>>
>>4156672
>Ectrodactyl hand (Increases dexterity, decreases grip strength)
>Suitcase-concealed Microauto
>Hypervelocity Armor-Piercing (Wears out gun)
>Swiss Multitool
On the off chance we drop a weapon we can always punch. Would getting cyber knuckle spikes be too invasive?
>>
>>4156783
Yeah, if you go with the Ectrodactyl Hand. Not enough room then. However, you could go for finger-blades instead in that case.
>>
>>4156672
>Upgraded Sensory Suite (Decreases ECM Hardening)
Detecting a threat is the most crucial step to neutralizing it.
I'd like to note that swordfighting requires grip strength.

>Short-Barreled Light Howitzer
As cool as a suitcase SMG is, it would require us to lug around a suitcase.

>HE for the howitzer
>HVAP for the pistol
With our aim-assist we don't really need manshredder's damage or spreadshot's extra hit chance.

>Swiss Multitool
Utility!
>>
>>4156951
You're not going to be able to lug around a Light Howitzer in public. Are you trying to give the maids a heart attack?
>>
>>4156968
Heavy weaponry only makes a man more handsome.
>>
>>4156996
Whoa whoa, slow down there. You're going to distract them from their work.
>>
>>4157017
Yes, the GIRTH and LENGTH of our howitzer is very distracting.
>>
>>4156810
nice nice. Ectrodactyl hand plus razor hands would go nicely. they would make for decent holdout weapons.

>>4156951
that's the beauty of the suitcase. it can hold snacks AND house a hun in it.

>>4157017
Would it be possible for the exterior of the suitcase to be armord so it can be used as an improvised shield, and the gun to be extracted from within to reload or use separate from the case?
>>
>>4157048
Could we cram a 1 shot howitzer inside the suitcase? If that's too big then what about a short barreled, shortranged .50 cal gun loaded with a green tip bullets with a magazine size of 5?
>>
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>Ectrodactyl hands have less fingers. Should be Polydactyl hand.
Whoever wrote the catalog's going to get chewed out by a pissed-off middle-manager.

>>4157195
I imagined the Microauto like the suitcase SMG's from GitS. Sure, the suitcase can be armored.
>>4157209
You're not going to be carrying a howitzer around in a suitcase unless you want to tear your arm sockets out of their joints. A .50 with two or three turns worth of ammo is acceptable.
>>
>>4156672
>Upgraded Sensory Suite (Decreases ECM Hardening)
>>4156951 Agree with this anon regarding the sensors
>Suitcase-concealed Microauto
>Hypervelocity Armor-Piercing (Wears out gun)
AP SMG best gun, why would we even need a howitzer beyond more dakka?
>Concealable Wristblade
we already have a sword and a combat knife
>>
>>4157262
That is a pathetically tiny suitcase. maybe something a little larger, + the .50 gun my dude.
>>
>>4156672
>Upgraded Sensory Suite (Decreases ECM Hardening)
>Short-Barreled Light Howitzer
>Explosive (Incompatible with lighter calibers)
>Manshredder (Ineffective against armor)
>Concealable Wristblade
>>
>>4157262
ECM means Electronic Counter Measures Right? Does taking the Upgraded Sensory Suite means we'll be more susceptible to hacking and jammers?
>>
>>4157441
No to hacking but yes to jammers
>>
>>4157453
Well okay, to clarify, if an EMP goes off, you'll be blind. Your senses will be amplified, but more easily overwhelmed. But it doesn't really make it easier for you to be hacked or jammed.
>>
>>4157453
Would we be blind before or after taking the Upgraded Sensory Suite?

Not to shit on the Short-Barreled Light Howitzer, but wouldn't that be very obvious and probably not accepted in certain places? A restaurant, in public, in another cooperate building? A finely dressed man would already draw a couple of glances, but a man carrying a Howitzer would make it impossible to be discrete. I'm just saying, A Ballistic resistant suitcase (shield) with a high velocity AP machinegun and a .50cal gun would be leagues more discrete, very versatile, and still fairly powerful. We'd only need the Light Howitzer if we want to go up against a tank, which we really don't want to do.
>>
>>4157475
Oh wow I didn't realize there were two ammo types. If the Suitcase wins, the Explosive for the .50cal and Hypervelocity Armor-Piercing for the microauto.
>>
>>4157475
How large is the Upgraded Sensory Suite and where would it be located?
>>
>>4157542
It would be completely internal, with a small external drive attachment to your neck.
>>
>>4157560
Asking because I was wonder if there was some way to install it into the collar of our suit as a sort of thick stylish discrete collar thing instead of taking up cybermeat space. BUT if that did exist it would be beyond our pay grade.
>>
>>4156672
> Cyberwarfare package
> Flechette Catapult
>Special ammo (Unless you do have to vote for two ammo then EXPLOSIVE & HVAP AMMO
>>
>>4157590
Oops forgot about the knife obviously the multi tool.
> Swiss Multitool
>>
>>4157262
>>4157362
On second thought, I'm vetoing the suitcase-concealed .50 cal. I'm not quite ready for you guys to be walking around with concealed heavy weaponry yet.
>>
Man, I'm not used to tallying this many votes. Hope I don't fuck this up. But as a QM, I take votes as a sign of support.

Cybernetic Upgrades

Polydactyl Hand
>>4156783

Upgraded Sensory Suite
>>4156951
>>4157308
>>4157422

Cyberwarfare Package
>>4157590

Firearms

Microauto
>>4156783
>>4157308

Howitzer
>>4156951
>>4157422

Flechette Catapult
>>4157590

Ammo

AP
>>4156783
>>4156951
>>4157308
>>4157590

HE
>>4156951
>>4157422
>>4157590

Manshredder
>>4157422

Combat Knives

Multitool
>>4156783
>>4156951
>>4157594


Concealable Wristblade
>>4157308
>>4157422
>>
>>4157640
could the suitcase still not be pathetically tiny and house misc items, the gun and be made out of tough stuff?
>>
Okay, let's break the tie between the Microauto and Howitzer.
>>
>>4157654
Oh yeah, sure. You'll have a decent amount of room.
>>
>>4157657
Fuck yeah room for juice boxes and fruit roll ups. Maybe some additional ammo. Still supporting the Microauto.
>>
>>4157657
Microauto
>>
>>4157657
Microauto
>>
>>4157657
What will you do one we have to fight a spider tank?
>Howitzer
>>
>>4157759
Sword it
>>
>>4157800
What will you do once we have to fight a wasp helicopter?
>>
>>4157808
Are you saying you cant sword it? That's quite talk.
But no a spider tank would be an extreme scenario. There are certain situations you just cant prepare for, and a spider tank, or regular tank for that matter are the few examples. It's like carrying a war crime around with you everywhere and expecting everyone to be comfortable with it.
>>
>Upgraded Sensory Suite
>Suitcase-Concealed Microauto (w/ Armored Suitcase)
>AP/HE Rounds
>Swiss Multitool

You spend the rest of the night combing through the catalog, selecting some things that would look useful. It took a lot of thought to decide on what was the most effective arsenal you could carry on your person without disrupting the semblance of peacefulness expected in the Household. But eventually, you decide. An upgraded sensory suite to better detect threats. A discreet but high-powered firearm, with the right kind of ammo to deal with all but the most well-armored threats. And a multitool has never hurt anyone. You spend the rest of the night writing a formal request to submit to the armoury, taking a short break to order dinner and continuing to think about your request even then.

You expect your request to be approved. Your current armament was okay for dealing with street punks and microcorp muscle. But the threats were different now that you were protecting a member of one of the most prominent families in Southeastern Asia. You would have to be ready to deal with an endless variety of assassin drones, not to mention hackers, professional human infiltrators and if you were really unlucky, a dreaded cyber-shinobi. You were justified in wanting more firepower for protecting Kaguya, weren’t you? You didn’t expect the Muramoto family to ever skimp or cut corners when it came to the safety of one of their family members.

By the time you’re done with your request, it’s about time to start going to meet Kyune. It would take an hour or so to travel up the mountainside road. You slip your shirasaya back into your belt, don a long windbreaker, and step out.

The halls of the manor at night were completely different than how they were in the daytime. The lights were dim, tinting your vision green as your HUD automatically activated it’s night vision support. There were no more maids passing by on business. The only people in the hall were occasional patrols of enforcers. They don’t stop you or question you, only taking a brief glance verify your identity against the database of personnel. Technically, you outrank them so they wouldn’t be able to stop you anyways.

Since you’re headed for the staff garage, you quickly pass out of the area of the manor meant for use by the Main Family and into the servant’s living space. Gone are the lounges every dozen meters and the ornamental furniture. Although the architecture is still traditional in style, it is much more utilitarian. Every so often, the traditional architecture gives way to concrete hallways and stairwells.
>>
You’re passing through the corridor to the garage when you see a female figure in the shadows, hunched over the wall. You hear her vomit, then spit to clear their mouths of a bad taste. You’re just about to keep walking when she notices you and turns around to look at you. It’s Akira, but she looked completely unlike the Akira you knew. She was wearing heavy makeup, but it was smeared and running off her face. Instead of her usual, cheerful look, She has a stoned, dead look in her glazed-over eyes. She stares at you unrecognizingly before turning around and trying to walk away, leaning on the wall for support.

Thwump. Akira’s collapses as soon as she tries to step forwards.

>Akira needs your help

>Don’t get involved
>>
>>4158408
>Akira needs your help
>But don't jeopardize the meeting with Kyune.
Destinations in order of preference: any kind of medical facility, Akira's room, an enforcer patrol to hand her off to. Find the closest matching destination, then go to the meeting.
>>
>>4158408
Quick question. Could the suitcase be used as an improvised bludgeon? Is it not too late to request that?

>Akira needs your help
>Also, I have information to share with you. Meet me halfway up the mountainside road at midnight. The manor has too many places where someone might overhear us.
What time is it now, and by our estimate how long would it take us to reach our destination were we to run the rest of the way there after we were sure we could do so without suspicion? If we can afford the time, let's help her. How much medical knowledge does Kentaro have?

I wonder if we should or shouldn't take her to the corp doc up here, depending on how severe her condition is. How long would it take to download some medical software?
>>
>>4158475
It's heavy and made of metal, so why not? A lot of enemies you might face have extremely tough skulls though.

It's almost eleven and you need an hour to get where Kyune wants you to go. Kentaro knows basic first-aid and also knows more-or-less how to take care of a drugged-out friend.

A corp doc may or may not be covered in Akira's contract. It would take a while with the headspace Kentaro has, but the bigger issue is that he doesn't have the headspace for it and all the free and cheap ones are virus-ridden.
>>
>>4158489
>all the free and cheap ones are virus-ridden
So there's no open source community anymore? This cyberpunk future sure is bleak.
>>
>>4158494
The open source community is thriving and larger than ever before. It's just that commercial search engines block access to their sites.
>>
>>4158533
Bleak, as I said.
>>
>>4158533
I guess a quick cursory look over then call some other maid/butler to pick her up. She probably has a couple of understanding blue collar friends.
>>
>>4158533
Can Kentaro do anything beyond swording things? Can vibe check? Yeet? You know how are his martial arts prowess and can he judo toss or throw improvised items?
>>
>>4158550
He's trained fairly competently in unarmed combat. He can definitely throw something hard enough to hurt someone, depending on what he throws.
>>
>>4158582
Clearly, since he's nearly mastered the way of the two handed butterknife, he should polish his other skills. Unarmed, parkour, backflips?
>>
So I guess Akira really is whoring herself out. That's sad.
Since she still eats shitty food, I expect she's doing it for a sick little brother or something.
>>
>>4158657
Could be. Could be for family too, or maybe she has a kid. It sorta sucks living up here.
>>
>>4158582
How sharp is Kentaro's sword? Good enough for Metal Gear Rising: Revengence tier slicing? Can her run up walls? Parry bullets?
>>
>>4158441
+1
Yea just ask what's wrong/ if injured
>>
>>4158710
With enough force, it will be able to cut almost anything less durable than military-grade ceramics. However, it's pretty short, only about arms length.
>>
>>4158710
Also, yes, he can parry low-caliber small-arms fire, although not something on full auto. Can't really run up walls though, even though he's significantly faster than what an unaugmented human should be able to react to.
>>
>>4158912
Learn parkour got it
>>
You rush forwards and catch her before she hits the ground.

“Who is this?” Akira mumbles. “Kentaro-kun?”

Up close, you can see how disheveled her clothing is. You can feel the feverish heat of her body through the fabric, soaked with sweat. Well, at least you knew this was the real Akira then. Androids couldn’t sweat.

“What’s up with you?” You ask.

“I’m fine.” Akira insists, trying to get up, before her legs give out from under her again. “... I … don’t want you to see me like this.”

You sigh and sling Akira’s arm over your shoulder, supporting her weight for her. You start walking, giving Akira no choice but to stumble along. “It’s only to the infirmary.”

“No, please! Anywhere but there.” Akira weakly struggles out of your grasp, but collapses as soon as you let go of her, forcing you to catch her again. “... If they find out I’m a user, I won’t be able to keep working here.”

“Okay, your room then.”

Akira shakes her head. “I can’t let my roommates see me like this.”

“Where were you even headed?” You demand.

“The garage.” Akira admits quietly, “No one ever visits there at night.”

>Well in that case, your own room will have to do until morning

>Come on, her roomates can’t be that bad

>If she was heading for the garage, the least you can do is help her there

>Dump her with the next patrol of guards you see. You like Akira, but you have more important things to do.
>>
>>4158929
>If she was heading for the garage, the least you can do is help her there
So shes an addict. Ok then. We'll lead her to the garage, but she has to tell us everything afterwards. Then we have to leave.
>>
>>4158972
+1
>>
>>4158929
>>If she was heading for the garage, the least you can do is help her there
>>
>>4158929
>If she was heading for the garage, the least you can do is help her there
>>
>>4158929
This is an unpleasant idea... but a person who needs money, or has a dark secret, is a prime candidate for recruitment as an agent by malicious outside parties. And Akira matches both.
>>
“Well, the least I can do is get you there.” You say, half-supporting, half-carrying Akira. Akira is so weak on her feet, she can’t really do much except follow you along. You can feel how small and light her body is just from her leaning against you. You could have easily carried her the entire journey, but this way at least, she was supporting some of her own weight as was only fair. You continue this awkward arrangement down to the staff garage, forced to slow your regular stride to a slow shuffle. You can feel the time hemorrhage away all the way down the hallway. Hopefully, Kyune wouldn’t be too angry if you were late … if she was there at all. But if you were late, then there was nothing you could do. You couldn’t ignore Akira, after all. “Where are you going in the garage?”

“I didn’t think this far,” Akira admits, “Usually, I find somewhere to sleep, one way or another … dropping me in the corner is fine, ahaha.”

“Of course not.” You grumble. “If you catch a cold, how are you going to work.”

You scan the garage. Unlike the rest of the manor, the staff garage is filled with vehicles of all description, from sleek sports cars to heavy cargo rigs to black, armored vans.. You spot a large coach bus on the far side of the garage and begin heading in that direction.

“W-where are we going?” Akira asks.

“The coach.” You reply. “It’s got heating, emergency blankets, and probably some food.

“W-won’t we get in trouble?”

“If you do, I’ll take responsibility. I have a good relationship with my boss.” You grimace. That might not be true anymore. But frag it, you had already made one girl cry today, and probably pissed off another. You weren’t going to disappoint a third one, especially not one you could help.

“O-okay.” Akira swallows nervously.

You lift Akira up the steep stairs of the coach and lie her down on one of the long seats. Then, you return to the front and flick the coach’s monitor to life.

[Seido Kentaro]
[**********]

You register the coach as in use, switch the engine over to electric, and turn the thermostat to a decent temperature. Then, you get the emergency kit from the driver’s overhead compartment, take out an emergency blanket and an omnipen.

You return to Akira’s side and lift up both arms in succession.

“K-Kentaro-kun, what are you doing?”

“Checking for bruising.” You reply, pulling her back collar to get a good view of her back. “Did who you were with hurt you?”

“N-no.” Akira says.

“That’s a relief.” You jab the omnipen into Akira’s thigh. “This’ll get rid of the nausea.”

“T-thank you, Kentaro-kun. You’ve done so much for me.” Akira says, genuine gratitude in her voice. There was the Akira you knew.

“Don’t mention it.” You say, pulling the emergency blanket over her.
>>
>So? What were you doing out so late at night?

>Frag, what are you even on to get you this messed up?

>So, all this … (gesture at her) … what for?

>I would have never thought you would be like this.

Write-ins are highly encouraged as of now
>>
>>4159331
>Sleep. I'll visit you later.

One, she really needs to sleep it off.
Two, we really need to get to Kyune.
>>
>>4159336
+1
>>
>>4159327
Why didnt he just carry her instead of shuffling?

>as was only fair
Fair to who we had stuff to do.

>>4159336
This
>>
>>4159515
>Why didnt he just carry her instead of shuffling?
I don't want to presume, but it _looks_ like this vote was supposed to make us choose between Akira and Kyune with no possibility of a third way.
Which would be a shitty thing if true.
>>
>>4159518
Well fuck. We are on a time crunch here. If we're extremely late then either she'll get pissy because she wanted this to be a test of faith, or some shit bag will go up and assassinate her then we'll be left fleeing for our life from the entirety of the corporation.

>>4159331
I fucking swear man.
>>
“There’s a toilet in the back, as well as food in the emergency packs.” You tell Akira, “Sleep. I’ll check on you later.”

“Okay.” Akira nods. You turn to leave. “Kentaro, wait!”

You pause. “Yes?”

“Thank you for everything.”

You nod in acknowledgement before leaving.

Of course, part of you feels sorry for Akira. But her situation was nothing special. You passed by a hundred women in shitty situations walking through a canalside street market. At night, every fifth alleyway you passed had some girl throwing up or high or fragging stabbed and bleeding out for all you knew. You had long ago learned to deaden your sense of empathy. Growing up streetside, you had to focus on your own problems if you wanted to make it through the day. But still, even before you had worked for the household, your job as an enforcer had been pretty cushy by streetside standards, it had been years since you had to worry about food. Huh, maybe that cushy corp muscle life had softened you up. Maybe that was why you had stopped to help Akira. You consider all of this as you hop on your cycle and ride out of the garage.

Even at night, the air down in Noir was so hot and humid you felt like you were pushing through it going anywhere. But not up here in the mountains. The mountainside air feels deliciously cool, like the flat of a razor resting against your skin. You accelerate, feeling the cool razor of the night air rush over your skin. Shit, for once it’s not raining tonight.

Kyune’s meeting place is so remote, you have plenty of time to yourself. You hope Kyune will still be waiting for Frag, you were stupid, risking pissing off a superior for some girl you met only two weeks ago. Hell, Kyune’s more than a superior, she’s poised to be the highest-ranking member of Muramoto Corporations in all of Noir in a decade or two. If you found out you had completely missed her, you wouldn’t be able to forgive yourself.

The paved road gives way to a gravel and dirt goat trail the farther down the road you go, stretching your cycle’s capabilities to its limits. One slip and you’ll be tumbling down the mountain slope. And still, you don’t see any sign of Kyune. She had said to meet her halfway up the mountain road, but she hadn’t specified where that exactly was. You’re just about to give up and go home when you see her sitting on a boulder a bit off the road. Leaning on the boulder was a sleek-looking blue motorcycle. It looks like the same model as yours.

Kyune’s leaning back and looking at the stars, dressed in a biker’s outfit which suits her surprisingly well. However, as soon as she notices you, she gets up and stares impatiently at you.

“Half an hour late …” Kyune hisses angrily. “What the hell took you so long?”
>>
>Apologize profusely and hope Kyune will leave it at that

>Say you had to help a friend, stay vague

>Explain yourself in detail immediately

>Well, at least you’re here now. What does she have to say?
>>
>>4159865
>Apologize profusely
>Say we were preparing a cover story for our abscence
Because meeting Akira at the garage at night is a perfect cover story if we just let people make their own conclusions.
>>
>>4159901
+1
>>
>>4159901
+1
>>
“I’m really sorry I’m late. It won’t happen again.” You say to Kyune.

“With your carelessness, you’re lucky that there might even be a next time.” Kyune scathingly remarks. “So? Your reason for being late better be frying good.”

“I … was preparing a cover story for my absence.” You explain.

“A cover story?” Kyune muses “And why would you need a half-fried cover story? I thought you were mostly free at night. Do you think you’re being surveilled?”

“No.” You admit, “B-but …”

Kyune leans in close, then grabs your collar and drags you closer, so close that your noses are almost touching. “Kentaro …” She begins, her voice almost too soft to hear, “Being a little late is one thing … But don’t sell lies to me, especially if they’re so fried you can smell their circuitry burning.”

You involuntarily gulp. Kyune’s eyes are filled with a genuine anger bordering on disgust. “I-I.”

“Besides …” Kyune says, sniffing at your collar, “You reek of perfume, sweat, and … shit, is that Neurofrag? The frying whore’s drool? You sure you weren’t balls deep in some hooker instead? Well Kentaro? Got anything to say?”

>Alright, you were with one. But it’s different than what Kyune’s thinking.

>Bow your head and beg for mercy

>Explain what you know about Akira’s condition

>You weren’t seeing a hooker! Honest!

Roll 3 1d20’s for Kyune’s reaction, DC is 10. Some options are easier than others, but regardless of what you choose, Kyune’s opinion of you is tainted by how you lied to her.
>>
Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4160491
>Explain what you know about Akira’s condition
>>
Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4160491
>Explain what you know about Akira’s condition
I didnt see much a point of lying. Didnt seem like a good point to begin with.
>I thought helping her walk to the garage rather than carrying her there to save time was better because I'm retarded.
>>
>>4160491
Alright I suppose to be fair I guess the purpose of lying was to salvage what little dignity Akira had because she seems like the sister type. Then again, Kentaro was here probably the shortest so Akira's whorish habits precedes Ken's stay here? I dunno I'm tired and disappointed. Jesus it took him over 30 minutes to walk? Why ever happened to being cybered? What a pansy. It just sucks that's shes doing it but I suppose that's life.
>>
>>4160606
>>4160734
Alright a success and a failure so it can go either way. Dope. I'm starting to get a better idea for this quest. Poor people aren't worth it, work for the rich dudes for that promotion. I feel kinda dump for that realizing that earlier. Akira was never worth the effort to begin with.
>>
>>4160740
Kentaro may have underestimated the roughness of the mountain roads a bit. He's a big city type and he's riding a big city bike, not an ATV.
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4160491
>Explain what you know about Akira’s condition
I predict it won't end well for Akira.

>>4160771
I'm quite sure anon meant it took Kentaro 30 minutes to take Akira to the garage.

This stuff with not carrying Akira reminds me of a game I played where I tried to fix a boat to get to a place faster. The GM ruled that I spent 12 hours fixing it instead of realizing that it's taking too long.
I hated that GM.
>>
Rolled 3, 10, 9 = 22 (3d20)

>>4160491
>Explain what you know about Akira’s condition
>>
Rolled 5, 1, 3 = 9 (3d10)

>>4160491
>>
I think I've learned an important lesson in not asking for rolls before people decide which option to go with.

>>4160901
I will keep in mind that players find that shit annoying. Generally, I appreciate fair criticism so thank you.
>>
>>4161262
No, thank you for being receptive. Fewer people are like that than there should be.
>>
>Kyune appreciates loyalty, one success is required
>1 Success, pass

“Okay, I was lying.” You admit. Kyune’s grip tightens. “But it wasn’t for my own sake! Let me explain!”

“Not for your own sake?” Kyune’s grip loosens. “Alright, this better be good.”

“T-there’s this girl I’m friends with …” You start. “A maid in the household …”

“Friends, you say? Do you even remember her name? First and last?

“Hosoda Akira …” You grudgingly say, giving up Akira’s last shred of dignity with her anonymity.

“Right, and the last time you gave your friend Akira-chan a friendly, wholly platonic hug, she happened to be so high on neurofrag that she was sweating it out of her pores.” Kyune snorts. “Sorry, go on.”

“I was getting there.” You insist. “When I was on my way to see you, I stumbled across Hosoda-san in a bad way.”

Even though she still looks angry, Kyune looks like she’s started listening to you. “And what did you do next? Carry her back to your room on your back like a right and proper gentleman? And that’s why you’re late?”

“I helped her to the garage and set her up in a coach bus.” You explain.

“It took you half an hour to carry a half passed-out girl to the garage?”

“I was only supporting her while she walked. Any faster and she would have collapsed.”

Kyune stares at you in disbelief, before snorting in laughter. “Hah! That’s frying ridiculous. You’re too much, Kentaro … still, even you wouldn’t be stupid enough to give an excuse that could be easily verified by checking the coach bus’s internal cameras, right?” Kyune stares into your eyes for any sign of impending panic at your mistake. Since this time you had told the truth, you can meet her gaze without flinching. “Alright, so you’re telling the truth this time … besides, your breath doesn’t smell of alcohol. And you don’t seem like the type who would be able to get a girl high on neurofrag without at least being drunk yourself.”

Kyune lets go of you to wipe the tears out of her eyes. You sigh in relief. “Thank you for your understanding.”

“Dammit Kentaro, don’t give me things to dislike you for and respect you for at the same time.” Kyune says. She seems to have calmed down now. “So … you’re saying the only reason you had to be late was because you had to help a friend in a bad way? And I guess you lied to save her face ...”

“That’s right.” You nod.

“Can’t really stay mad at you for that.” Kyune admits, “But your cover story though … that’s pretty frying retarded. There’s no good reason why anyone would be surveilling you, you know? The jumped-up bodyguard of an illegitimate princess, with no real connections to anyone important. Hell, if someone noticed you preparing a cover story, it would give away more if you were just caught missing for a night.”
>>
You bow in acknowledgement. “I will keep that in the mind for the future.”

“By the way, this Hosoda-san …” Kyune says, “How close would you say you are to her? Out of curiosity?”

>You barely know her and wouldn’t help her again

>You’re just acquaintances, she’s just convenient good company

>You’re good friends, she’s very fun to be around

>You’re very fond of her and deeply concerned for her wellbeing
>>
>>4161357
>You’re just acquaintances, she’s just convenient good company
I don't think we have really interacted with her enough times to be considered friends?
>But her circumstances arouse sympathy in us.
Well, in me personally, at least.
>>
>>4161378
You eat lunch with her pretty often, whenever the both of you have matching lunch breaks.
>>
>>4161357
>>You’re starting to become good friends, she’s very fun to be around.

“I’m still trying to figure out who I can trust around here, but she’s fun to talk to during lunch. Better then listening to who’s bedding what maid from the guys again.”
>>
>>4161357
I don't see any romance between Kentaro and Akira, but I still like the sister idea. They're not super best friends, but she seems like a nice lady.

>>4161468
this
>>
>>4161468
+1
>>
“We’re starting to become good friends. She’s fun to be around.” You tell Kyune.

“So you’d delay a meeting with, lie to, and risk upsetting someone who might be your future boss for someone you’re only starting to be good friends with?” Kyune muses, “Kaguya’s damn lucky she’s likeable. If you’d risk your career for a friend you’ve just met, you’d probably sell your kidney to protect her. Still Kentaro, you should try to keep your priorities in mind. I didn’t meet you in this out-of-the-way place for the hell of it. You should consider that, since your job is to protect someone you care about. If you’d ever consider protecting a maid over ensuring Kaguya’s safety, you might as well hand in your resignation and sell your sword. That’s professional pride, am I right? ”

“My apologies. I didn’t consider it this way.” You say.

“I’m not angry, you didn’t do anything I can disagree with.” Kyune waves your apology away, “Just think about how your actions will affect how well you can do your job ‘s all.”

“I’ll remember that.” You promise Kyune. “So, there is a reason you wanted to meet me?”

“Right, right … So I heard you met my Uncle today. So? What did you think? Isn’t he the biggest slimeball you’ve ever had the fried fortune to see?”

“I … it’s hard to believe that Kaguya’s the daughter of a man like him.” You agree.

“Yeah? Well, try growing up with my father. Growing up with that uptight old coot as an older brother will turn anyone into a hedonist. Well, regardless, my dear Uncle is my main rival for who will succeed the old man as Branch Manager. The household’s divided itself into two camps around me and him ... It’s been that way since I’ve been talking.” There’s the smallest taste of bitterness in Kyune’s voice. You wonder what it was like for her growing up. “Anyways, I want you to join his camp.”

“What?” You stare in shock at Kyune’s request. “Me?”

“You heard me right. Tell him I asked you to become my retainer. Hell, tell him you accepted.”

“Wait? You’re asking me to infiltrate your uncle’s camp?”

“No. I’m asking you to join it.” Kyune corrects. “Big damn difference there, Kentaro. So? Can you do it?”

>If that’s what you ask …

>Okay, but I’d like to know why though.

>I refuse
>>
>>4162348
>Okay, but I’d like to know why though.
If I do this, what of Kaguya? Do you know if you can beat your uncle?
>>
>>4162348
>>Okay, but I’d like to know why though.
>>
>>4162348
>Could you please clarify how exactly you see "join" versus "infiltrate"? Because to me it sounds like you're asking me to give my loyalty to your uncle.
>>
“Are you asking me to give my loyalty to your uncle?” You ask.

“What, didn’t you already give it to Kaguya, then to me? You have some left?”Kyune chuckles. “Even if you did, my dear Uncle wouldn’t accept it. He’s not the kind of man who believes in loyalty. No, what I’m asking you to do is indicate that you expect him to win, and will be backing him accordingly.”

“Why would you ask me to do this though?”

“Entirely selfish reasons.” Kyune admits, “Because the position you’ll do the most good for me in is inside my Uncle’s camp. But well, you’re not good enough of a liar to infiltrate for real so the most I can do is get you placed there.”

“Isn’t that basically just infiltration?” You point out.

Kyune frowns. “Listen Kentaro, words have power, alright? More power than you give them credit. Infiltrations are by nature subversive. If I told you to infiltrate his camp, you would go in with the mindset that you’re there to undermine what he’s doing. You might even do something dangerous like try to sabotage him on your own. But I don’t want that. All I want is you inside my Uncle’s camp.”

You consider Kyune’s request. You don’t understand what she’s plotting, but it sounded like a lot of effort. And potentially dangerous.

“My loyalty belongs to Kaguya in the end.” You tell Kyune. “If you’re asking me to do something risky, then I have to consider whether it will put me in a position where I can’t protect her.”

Kyune nods. “I understand that. But Kaguya’s only chance for a future somewhere other than the street is with me. My uncle doesn’t care about her in the slightest. Hell, he would have had her stay in the hole they found her in if my Old Man didn’t order him to do otherwise. If I lose, Kaguya loses with me.”

“Are you sure you can beat your Uncle then?”

“No.” Kyune says flatly. “I have no idea. But I have one advantage over him and that is that he thinks he’ll win in the end. When people come to join his camp, he accepts it as only natural. Joining with the winning side is only natural, right?”

“I understand then.” You bow in acknowledgement. “In that case, I will accept this task from you.”

“Thank you.” Kyune graciously bows back.

>Any last questions for Kyune?
>>
>>4163499
>How do we contact your uncle and not piss him off? I don't suppose I can just wait until he summons me again.
>>
>>4163512
+1
>>
>>4163512
+1
>>
>>4163499
Ask about her bike.
>>
“How should I contact your uncle and not piss him off?” You ask, “Should I just wait until he summons me again?”

“Summon a random former enforcer? Why the hell would he do that?” Kyune asks. “No, here’s what you’re going to do. In a few days, I’ll formally thank you and give you a damn expensive gift, something so expensive it has to be a sign of my favour. Send that gift to him. Say that it was my gift to you, along with something clever, it doesn’t really matter what. That’ll get you summoned.”

“If that’s what you say …” You trail off. Kyune’s quiet now. The two of you stare down the mountainside at the vista of Noir spreading across the valley in all it’s nighttime glory. You can’t help but enjoy Kyune’s company.

“Good view, isn’t it?” Kyune asks. “I always see it on my nighttime rides.”

You frown. “Kyune … aren’t nighttime rides a massive security risk?”

“With my helmet on, I’m just another chick on a bike.” Kyune says, “Besides, who’s gonna be able to catch me on such a nice ride?”

“That is a nice ride.” You admit. “Looks a bit like my own.”

“Muramoto Hornet Custom.” Kyune proudly announces, “Goes 330 kilometers per hour with the swapped-out fuel injectors and extra two cylinders. With magnetic bearings for the wheels and computerized internal gyroscopes, you could probably weave through city alleyways at those speeds … if you were good enough of course.”

You whistle. “Remind me to never race you … still, it doesn’t seem as fancy as the kind of bike a kid as rich as you would ride.”

“I wouldn’t be as anonymous then.” Kyune explains.

“True, true …”

The two of you continue looking at the view in silence.

“I never thought I’d see the tops of those skyscrapers.” You say, “But from here …”

“Everything seems so small, right?” Kyune finishes for you.

“Yeah.” You nod. You stare with her at the view in front of you, down the undeveloped, forested side of the mountain range to the suburb-covered foothills, all the way down to the vast megacity of Noir, where glittering spires of glass and steel competed with each other for sunlight like trees in the jungle, choking out the sky for the vast crowds of people who scraped a living at their worn concrete bases. In the daytime, the city was shrouded in such a massive cloud of pollution you would barely be able to see anything except the top of the skyscrapers. But at night, it looked like a constellation of neon stars filling the basin of the valley.

End of Thread
>>
That's another thread done. New thread will be tomorrow or something. I hope you guys are enjoying things so far.
>>
>>4164361
Thanks for running!

I just want to remind you players traditionally suck at intrigue. Please be gentle.
>>
>>4164370
Thanks for playing

Don't worry, it'll be as gentle as a headpat from Kaguya-chan. I'll even spice it up with a combat encounter every one or two threads in case anyone forgets Kentaro really is a badass killer cyborg samurai.
>>
>>4164355
We should have asked her what is her plan when she does "Win"?
>>
>>4164558
Live the good life of a megacorp owner? Have a harem of bishonens, a custom bike and a personal strawberry soda production factility?
>>
New thread is up
>>4167114



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