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File: GunXGlory.png (539 KB, 800x500)
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The year is 2030, and gaming has taken the world by storm.

Through high-octane first-person shooters, expansive fantasy battle royales, intense rhythm games, and even grand real time strategies – games have overtaken everything in competitive sports. Where once stadiums stood for football and the like, they have been renovated to facilitate grand clashes of skill for the entire world to see. It’s undoubtedly so that in this world, games are what now reign supreme.

And in that hectic world, you’ve had a hell of a past few weeks.

You are a formerly well regarded and now retired player of the FPS game Warscape, and only recently, your past has been dragged up by a girl known only by 0phelia. After many trials and tribulations, and after running into a few old names from the past, you had a week to cool off, even with your name once again in the public eye. That week was promptly upset by the arrival of two players known as Edit and Sky after your and your best pal Cinder’s pride, who you managed to beat with a bit of effort.

When you got out of the console, you expected to have a nice and quiet celebration. Of course, that was also upset by the arrival of an old teammate, because the universe just loves blitzing your good vibes.

Your name is Wolfgang O’Neal, and you sincerely wish you were anywhere but here.

“The reason why I’m here, which I was getting to, is that I need some money. And you’re gonna help me get it, Wolf – since you’re so conveniently back in the market, after all.”

The air around you has gone eerily silent in face of Orange’s – no, Orion’s – words. The boy next to you – Golden – looks as if he’s going to kill someone, Orion looks like some form of shark has gained human sapience, and Cinder is nowhere to be seen. This leaves you sitting as still as can be, staring down at your hands.

This man is probably the last person you wanted to see short of Drifter, and he came with a ludicrous offer. After going on a long winded tangent and getting cut off by Golden – it was an interesting story, maybe you should investigate yourself when things are less tense – he dropped those words on your lap with a shrug and a grin.

You can feel the urge to sigh boil up within you, and you nervously run a hand down your face as you do so.

What the fuck are you even supposed to say to that?

>Ask why he felt the need to come all the way here to score some money - it’s not your fault he must have lost.
>Try to get your rival/friend Golden’s thoughts on the matter – you have a feeling he’s about to start snapping at Orion again.
>Look around the bar for Cinder – she left quite a while ago to get food, and she’s the closest thing to support you have around here.
>Busy yourself with looking down at your phone – you’re frankly too nervous to say anything, as this is something out of nightmares for you.
>Write-in.

Thread archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Gun%20x%20Glory
Thread Discord: https://discord.gg/bfBa2uX
>>
>>4312971
>>Busy yourself with looking down at your phone – you’re frankly too nervous to say anything, as this is something out of nightmares for you.
Do it in the most spilled spaghetti way possible
>>
>>4312971
>Look around the bar for Cinder – she left quite a while ago to get food, and she’s the closest thing to support you have around here.

we need our support tomboy
>>
>>4312971
>Ask why he felt the need to come all the way here to score some money - it’s not your fault he must have lost.
>What do you expect me to do about it?
THE LAD IS BACK
>>
>>4312971
>Busy yourself with looking down at your phone – you’re frankly too nervous to say anything, as this is something out of nightmares for you.
>>
>>4312971
>>4312974
seconding
>>
>>4312974
>>4312978
>>4312982
The phone is all the support you need. Writing now!
>>
>>4312986

Rather than facing this situation head on, you decide to duck your figure down further and clumsily grab for your phone in your hoodie pocket. You have literally dreaded meeting any member of your old team again barring Fletcher, and now one has shown up on your doorstep asking for money? That’s just enough for you to want to disengage, especially since it’s the one member you hardly knew shit about in the first place.

You pull up your phone and notice that you have some unread messages – thankfully, none are from unknown numbers. There is still a bit of residual fear from the constant spam messages and calls from 0phelia, however those ceased as soon as she formally left. This leaves you with someone you haven’t heard from in a bit worming into your inbox – your ever-trusty landlord, Alexis.

>Yoooooo, how’s it hanging, champ?
>Work’s been hell so I’m gonna drag you out for drinks tonight.
>I’d say that saying no is an option, but you could probably use one, eh? See you soooooooon!

Your eyebrow furrows automatically – this is from a few hours ago, likely during your match with Edit and Sky. With all of the sudden excitement that occurred after the match, you’d had no time to even notice these, meaning that she may just be inbound. You take a glance up at the people in the booth with you – Orion has fallen silent as he idly observes the two of you, while Golden is in the process of opening his mouth to retort.

It’d be nice having some form of mediator here, but at the same time, you’re really not sure if you’d like Alexis around for this confrontation. Due to her inclination with teasing you, you can only imagine the ammunition she’d have with this.

>”Already at the bar. See you soon.” No need to rain on her parade despite yours being flooded.
>”Not feeling up to it tonight.” Cut her off simply – you’d rather be left alone after all this.
>”Don’t you have anyone else to drink with?” The fact that she asks this semi-often has you curious.
>Leave her on read – you know, like an asshole.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4312992
>”Don’t you have anyone else to drink with?” The fact that she asks this semi-often has you curious.
>>
>>4312992
>”Already at the bar. See you soon.” No need to rain on her parade despite yours being flooded
>>
>>4312992
>”Already at the bar. See you soon.” No need to rain on her parade despite yours being flooded.
>>
>>4313004
>>4313065
Let her come. Writing now!
>>
>>4313067

You send a message back immediately. As much as she could theoretically tease you, a friendly familiar face is always good in times of stress.

>Already at the bar. See you soon.

A few seconds after it’s sent, you get a response from her.

>Damn, beat me to it!
>Don’t text while driving.
>It’s not illegal if you don’t get caught!

You roll your eyes and go to reprimand her for the incredibly dangerous action, but the infuriated sounds of Golden beginning to speak break through your thoughts.

Oh boy, this is gonna be good.

“Listen Orange, don’t you know that people aren’t your personal piggybanks?” Golden adopts an almost condescending tone, leaning his head against his hand. “Besides, showing up to randomly accost people isn’t kosher, especially when you haven’t seen them in five years, probably!”

It takes a lot for you to bite back the words that come to mind – Golden literally did the exact same thing, minus asking you to help him get money. He’s probably one of the richest people in the game anyways.

“And also, you aren’t gonna bully him into doing what you want him to just because you lost your own chance at money!”

Oh, wow, he’s actually stepping in to defend you. You hadn’t expected Golden to immediately jump to your defense in such a way, maybe you should have given him some more—

“At least, not until I get a match out of him like he promised!” You spot Golden whirl on you, bright blue eyes full of determination and hope, the look burning holes into your face.

Yeah, there it is.

“Yours seems to be a matter of pride, while mine is a matter of living. You can easily step aside for now – I hardly have any time left.” Orion waves off Golden’s words, and you roughly jab him in the side again when he goes to slam his hands on the table.

“I’ve been waiting several weeks for this, buddy, and I’m not gonna be denied any longer!” He turns to you again. “Come on, Nova, you promised to do it if I beat Edit, which I did!”

“Didn’t seem like it took a lot of work, dude plays like a punk ass.” Orange helpfully supplies, making you chuckle under your breath despite your nerves. Golden, of course, can hear you do this and begins to glare at you as well.

>Ask Orange what he expects you to do about it – you don’t exactly have a lot going for you currently.
>Tell Golden that he’s right – you did make a promise, and you’re pretty down with sticking by those.
>Attempt to find Cinder and invent a signal for help – these two are overbearing in different ways.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4313083
>>Ask Orange what he expects you to do about it – you don’t exactly have a lot going for you currently
>>
>>4313083
>Attempt to find Cinder and invent a signal for help – these two are overbearing in different ways.
>>
>>4313083
>Tell Golden that he’s right – you did make a promise, and you’re pretty down with sticking by those.
It's just one match how long can it take.
>>
>>4313083
>>4313108
switching to >Attempt to find Cinder and invent a signal for help – these two are overbearing in different ways. since no one is coming to break the tie
>>
>>4313083
>Attempt to find Cinder and invent a signal for help – these two are overbearing in different ways.
>>
>>4313097
>>4313122
>>4313138
Find your support tomboy. Writing now!
>>
>>4313141

Rather than indulging this now growing argument, you completely stone wall the two boys and cast your gaze around the bar, trying to seek out your friend. Things are getting a little bit out of your comfort zone – what can you say, Orion’s presence is enough to fuck with you – so having her around might bring some form of stillness back to your mind.

Also, maybe if you asked nicely enough, she’d carry him out of the bar for you.

It takes you a few moments due to the bar’s activity. As this is later in the evening, there are more people to be found as expected, and there are a few crowds watching some games on the flatscreen. You can pick out some people cheering at a random Warscape game, a few people getting really into a girl with far too short of a skirt doing a concert, and there’s even a corner filled with people watching some sort of chess-looking game.

Eventually, you can spot Cinder coming back over just as the boys start up their bickering again.

She has a fairly large tray balanced on one of her arms filled with food, and a drink holder in the other. Every few seconds she needs to adjust her posture in order to prevent her crimson hair from getting in the food, but otherwise, she seems to have a good handle on things. When you catch her gaze, a small smile flits across her face, which vanishes as soon as she looks to the loud talker next to you. You shoot her a look, and she seems like she gets it.

You can almost hear her sigh from where you’re sitting.

“Alright, boys, maybe tone it down a bit.” She says when she reaches the booth, putting both trays on the table. “The owner’s getting a little irritated.”

On the food tray lies a pretty great looking pepperoni pizza, along with a burger for Orion. You quickly grab at your drink and take a sip – you had told Cinder to surprise you, and she’s apparently picked something fruity. You can hardly taste the alcohol, which is great, yet concerning.

“Sorry about that.” Orion shrugs his shoulders, looking like its of no particular concern to him. Cinder motions for Golden to scoot over so she can slide in next to you, and she immediately stares down Orion without flinching.

“So, now that your story is over, what exactly do you want? I doubt Wolf’s gonna fork over money for your apartment – at least he had better not.” She glances your way, much more nicely than Golden you might add, and taps your wrist with the back of her hand.

She’s got your back.

“Well, since you’re back in the game, I figured we could go hit up a tournament or something.”

Your eye twitches. You’d clobber 0phelia if you could get away with it legally.

>”I guess I could see the logic, but why the hell does it have to be me?”
>”I’m not exactly playing by choice, Orion. How’d you even find me?”
>”…and why couldn’t you go and do this yourself? I don’t see why this concerns me.”
>Look to Cinder for guidance – support tomboy is much more of a people person.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4313184
>”I’m not exactly playing by choice, Orion. How’d you even find me?”
>>
>>4313184
>”I’m not exactly playing by choice, Orion. How’d you even find me?”
>>
>>4313184
>>”I’m not exactly playing by choice, Orion. How’d you even find me?
>>
>>4313189
>>4313202
>>4313212
Writing now!
>>
>>4313212
Also, it's been a long time, but isn't Fletcher still active? Why wouldn't he ask him before coming to us?
>>
>>4313213

You finally manage to say something directly to the man, attempting to straighten your back as you do.

“I’m not exactly playing by choice, Orion. How’d you even find me?” You somehow manage to say this without wavering, although the look he casts your way almost makes you wilt. You know it’s not entirely on purpose – he’s always had a kind of bitchy face – but man, it still skeeves you out even five years later. “And to add to that, why didn’t you ask anyone else before coming to me?”

Orion sighs as if you’ve asked the most stupid question in the world, which irritates not only you, but everyone else on your side of the table.

“Well, for one, your arcade’s address is well-known knowledge if you know where to look.” Orion raises a finger, and you can concede that to him. You’re very well aware that 0phelia leaked your shit online, so if anyone truly wanted to know, they could just traipse their way through your door.

“And for two, everyone else is busy. Buster has his own team to deal with, I would rather swallow molten glass than do anything with Drifter, especially with her current attitude,” he shoots you a look, and you feel your blood chill for a moment, “and Fletcher refused flat out. Said he wouldn’t ever play anything but solo without the full team behind him.”

“He trained me after the fact, though…” You say quietly, to which Orion snorts.

“Was that training public? It beats the fuck out of me why he won’t play publicly with us on our own, but you’d have to take that up with him. He’s always been a little bit weird – and I say that as nicely as I can – but you and I both know that. Therefore, by process of elimination, that leaves you the only one left. And so, I tracked you down.”

You’re almost tempted to ask him if he had any other friends he could attempt this with, but you know he’d say he doesn’t. Even back then, Orion could hardly be considered a social guy – hell, he stayed in his room most of the time when he wasn’t training – and you highly doubt that’s changed in any way, shape, or form.

>”Then wouldn’t a solo tournament do the trick? Still don’t see why you needed to find me.”
>”So, you’re still in contact with everybody? How are they doing?”
>”Still doesn’t seem like a good plan, dude. You haven’t played for five years, and I’ve hardly done it either.”
>”Get Golden to do it.” Jab the blonde haired boy in the side and see how he reacts.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4313234
>”Then wouldn’t a solo tournament do the trick? Still don’t see why you needed to find me.”
>>
>>4313234
>"Still doesn't seem like a good plan, dude. You haven't played for five years, and I've hardly done it either." also how much money does he need and how does he plan to earn it
Info Dam it !
>>
>>4313234
>”Still doesn’t seem like a good plan, dude. You haven’t played for five years, and I’ve hardly done it either.”
>>
>>4313234
>"Still doesn't seem like a good plan, dude. You haven't played for five years, and I've hardly done it either." also how much money does he need and how does he plan to earn it
>>
>>4313234
>"Still doesn't seem like a good plan, dude. You haven't played for five years, and I've hardly done it either." also how much money does he need and how does he plan to earn it
>>
>>4313248
>>4313253
>>4313304
>>4313309
Why is he so bad at planning, and how much does he even need? Writing now!
>>
>>4313319

“…it still doesn’t seem like a good plan, dude.” You manage to look him in the eyes for the first time in the encounter, brushing some of your hair from your eyes. “I haven’t played hardly at all, and you haven’t played in five years, either. What do you expect me to do? As well as that, how much money do you even need? How did you expect the plan to go? Did you consider any of this?”

It’s remarkably easy to talk when you have some leverage to stand on, as opposed to this man walking in like he had everything planned out. He doesn’t seem to lose any of his quiet confidence, though, although you do watch him shift a bit. Cinder taps your hand again, although whether it’s a warning or a show of support, you have no clue.

“Like I said, I figured we could hop into a tournament – I scoped one out before I showed up. And judging by the very limited clips I’ve seen, it looks like you’re still functioning well enough – have you even lost yet?”

“No, but—”

“That’s enough to prove my point.” He rudely interrupts you, waving a hand. “You could give me a few pointers, I get back up to speed, we kick ass in the tournament, and we get that $20,000 bounty. I’ll need 75% of it, but that’s still a hefty pot for you regardless, right? Solos don’t pay nearly that much.”

“Psh, only that much…?” You hear Golden murmur under his breath, to which you pinch him underneath the table, causing him to squeak.

“How much do you even pay for your apartment?”

“$1,250 a month, and I pay yearly - that makes $15,000.”

You almost spit out your drink.

“Christ, that’s a little much, isn’t it?” Cinder gripes. “Why not move to a place a little cheaper?”

“Because I like the apartment, and I worked hard to get that offer in the first place.” Orion shrugs again. “I used to pay monthly, but I like buying shit, so I convinced my landlord to let me do yearly. I got it, but on the condition that I have to keep it up, or I’ll be kicked out. A one strike and you’re out system – I’ve been very good about paying it, however my usual gambit didn’t work this time, so I’m shit out of luck. There are no Infinite Skies events going on due to the big one taking up the spotlight, so I figured Warscape be a good fallback.”

“And…when do you need this money by, again?”

“Two days from now.”

You resist the urge to hit your head against the table with all your might. You’re aware that Orion is a little bad with money – at least, he used to be – so you thought he might have grown up a little bit since then. Apparently not.

>Try to ask some details about the tournament.
>Ask what prevents you from playing with Golden first, in that case?
>Turn to Cinder to seek her counsel – she is the sanest one at the table, probably.
>Look at him blankly, and then finish off your drink. You’ve earned it.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4313343
2 days....Nice P/ |___| We got this
>Ask for details and sip on your drink.
>>
>>4313343
>Try to ask some details about the tournament.
Might as well commit to it.
>>
>>4313343
>Turn to Cinder to seek her counsel – she is the sanest one at the table, probably.
>>
>>4313343
>Ask for details and sip on your drink.
>"On one condition, you owe me,"
>>
>>4313343
>>4313364
Seconding
>>
>>4313364
Lol sure, I can see Wolf getting scared a bit by Orion after say "You owe me," cause of bitch face
>>
>>4313343
Supporting >>4313364
$5000 isn't enough
>>
>>4313364
Fucking this.
>>
>>4313343
>>Turn to Cinder to seek her counsel – she is the sanest one at the table, probably
>>
Yo, I'm back! Had to make some dinner. Hope you all are doing well tonight, and thank you for coming around!

>>4313364
>>4313372
>>4313379
>>4313403
>>4313405
Based. Writing now!
>>
>>4313465

You take a good, long moment to contemplate his words. True, Orion seems to be as icy as ever, and still possesses money problems. It’s true that you’re not exactly playing willingly, and it’s true that this is an incredible emotional roller coaster you’re on right now. You hadn’t expected the aftermath of your team match to beget this shit, but goddammit, Orion was a friend, and he’s about to lose his house.

Doesn’t mean you won’t spin it a bit, though. Dude can bite it for showing up all of a sudden – he didn’t even call the arcade beforehand! You may be a lot of things, but you have some fucking manners.

“…Jesus, Orion. Give me the details.” You sigh deeply, taking a sip of your drink and ignoring the fact that your words made your friends gasp. The fuck’s with that? “On one condition, though. You’re gonna owe me for it.”

Orion’s gaze shifts from your drink to your eyes, and you can’t help but flinch. You think he’s not trying to glare on purpose, but you’re not really sure because of the resting bitch face, and so you’re left fidgeting in your seat as the boy stares holes into you. Another tap from Cinder – fuck, that’s almost annoying at this point – but you try your best to hold your ground despite his aggressive aura.

“Alright, sounds good to me. What do you want?”

You physically sag in relief – you had honestly expected that to go a lot worse. You weren’t aware of just how tense your body had become, but thank fuck that didn’t spiral out of control. You’d rather avoid any wrath heaped on your shoulders, because you’ve experienced a lot of it already.

>”I want you to pay back the $15,000 at some point, if I decide to do this.”
>”You’ll owe me a favor for some point in the future.”
>”At least try to fix your spending habits, man – I can’t believe this is still a problem.”
>Write-in.
>>
>>4313476
>”At least try to fix your spending habits, man – I can’t believe this is still a problem.”
Let's help him get out of the hole instead of digging a deeper one.
>>
>>4313476
>”At least try to fix your spending habits, man – I can’t believe this is still a problem.”
>>
>>4313476
>”You’ll owe me a favor for some point in the future.”
>>
>>4313476
>>”You’ll owe me a favor for some point in the future.”
>>
Yo, gonna head off for the night, as I'm pretty tired! Thank you for coming around today, and I hope you had a great time reading! Please leave any comments, criticism, questions, or concerns you have - I wanna make things less shit overall.

Have a great night, anons! Vote is open 'till morning. See you soon!
>>
>>4313476
>”At least try to fix your spending habits, man – I can’t believe this is still a problem.”
>>
>>4313476
>"You'll owe me a favor for some point in the future."
>"And at least try to fix your spending habits, man- I can't believe this is still a problem." I wonder what he buys
>>
>>4313476
>"You'll owe me a favor for some point in the future."
>"And at least try to fix your spending habits, man- I can't believe this is still a problem." I wonder what he buys

We don't need money, but support whenever you need it is worth its weight in gold.
>>
Good morning, everyone! How are you doing today?

>>4313479
>>4313480
>>4313481
>>4313483
>>4313603
>>4313649
>>4313872
So with all of these votes, and some wanting both, I'm pretty sure we can combine them in this case. Writing now!
>>
>>4313995

You ponder for a moment – what exactly could you ask of him? Well, for one, you could make him pay you back in the future, but knowing him, that’d probably be a fruitless endeavor. You still have quite a bit of money in the bank, and you make enough off of the arcade to get you by, so you don’t even need it. Raising a hand to cup your chin, you eventually settle on something that you think’s acceptable.

“You’ll owe me a f-favor for some point in the future,” you shrug your shoulders, finding a shred of confidence in the fact that you have a bit of leverage now. “Although, I’d like you to at least try to fix your spending habits, man. I really can’t believe that it’s still a problem.”

Orion regards you for a moment, and you almost think he’ll reject it, but he settles on chuckling. You think you can spot a mote of relief in his eyes, but you’re not willing to look at him long enough to confirm, because fuck the dude’s scary!

“Why’d I think you were gonna ask for anything else?” Orion runs a hand down his face, slapping his knee as he does. “Just like how you used to be – nosy, but fair.”

Your eyebrow furrows, and you can swear that you hear Cinder snort from beside you.

“Please give me the details before I change my mind.”

You glance over at the people sat next to you – Cinder looks almost proud, and Golden looks like he’s sat on a thumbtack. He most certainly has some form of objection, but you’ll wait to hear it after this, because you can hardly imagining having to field both Orion and Golden at the same time.

“Alright, then.” Orion pulls out his phone – a really nice one, you might add – and swipes a few times. “The tournament’s a two-man team affair, and it’s a best of 16 bracket, meaning four match-ups. Prize is $20,000, and you need to have some form of “professional reputation” to get in there – thankfully, we both have that, for better or worse.”

“So, we can expect people who actually know what they’re doing?”

“Eh, we’ll be fine once you get me back up to speed.”

“Again, I hardly know anything.”

“But you know how to play, and that’s what matters, yeah? Not like you’ve lost, yet.”

You find yourself slipping into a once familiar pattern of analysis – you’d like to say that your old habits should have stayed dead, but sometimes it be like that, so you’ll just roll with it.

>Ask if there’s any specific requirements for what a professional rep entails – you’d like to know precisely what you’re dealing with.
>Ask if there are any names of people enlisted – if it’s someone you fought in the past, you might be able to use that.
>Try to enlist Golden on the spot to help with training Orion – he’s played at a professional level for far longer than you, and he still looks mad.
>Turn over to Cinder and ask her just why she hasn’t showed you any details of the game yet – this may be serious, but you have time for teasing.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4314003
>Turn over to Cinder and ask her just why she hasn’t showed you any details of the game yet – this may be serious, but you have time for teasing
There is always time for teasing but also
>Try to enlist Golden on the spot to help with training Orion – he’s played at a professional level for far longer than you, and he still looks mad.
>>
>>4314003
>>4314010
seconding all of this
>>
>>4314010
+1
>>
>>4314010
+1
Killing two birds with one stone in Golden case.
>>
>>4314003
Also is there a roster for those enlisted in the 2v2 Tournament, so we can check later?
>>
>>4314010
supporting this
>>
Went to town and got some lunch, and now we're back for the day!

>>4314010
>>4314021
>>4314039
>>4314058
>>4314141
Writing now.
>>
>>4314144

You can see the points he’s making – although some of your matches have been by the skin of your teeth, you’ve managed to persevere, even if it came down to items at the end. You lean back in the booth and run a hand through your hair, glad that even some of your nervousness has been abated. You doubt you’d be feeling this at ease if it were just you alone with Orion, so again, you’re thankful to the people around you once more.

However, just because you’re nervous and thankful doesn’t mean you’re above teasing. You slowly look over at Cinder, who quirks an eyebrow at you from behind her glass.

“You know, we’ve been at this for a few weeks now – any reason you haven’t sat me down to explain more detail about items and shit?” You say with the barest hint of a smirk, causing her to almost choke on her drink. After wiping her mouth, she gives you a sly look.

“Well, if you wanted me to be a personal trainer, you could have asked! Also, I was gone for a week, and shit’s been hectic otherwise.” She says, patting you roughly on the shoulder. “Besides, you’ve picked up enough – at least you know what a haste potion is, right?”

“Oh, trust me, I’m well aware. I can see why Edit had so many of them, especially if there aren’t that many drawbacks.”

“The drawback is overconfidence and ridiculously high pricing – it’s mandated with how good of an item it is. You can commission practically anything as long as it falls within competitive standards, but they’ll definitely gouge you for it. Due to that, it’s almost impossible to predict just exactly what everyone has since people do a lot of tweaking, but I’ll run you by the Auxilia standard stuff, okay?”

“Thanks, Cinder.” You exchange smiles, and then turn over to Golden, who is now sipping his iced tea with relentless fervor. He’s scowling at everything in his path, so you figure trying to include him in the process will at least sate him for now.

“And we can use you to help get him back up to speed, Golden.” The boy immediately turns to you, blue eyes widening at the suggestion. “You’re the most experienced person on hand, and as much as you like to fuck around, I know how serious you can be.”

“The hell’s that supposed to mean?” His expression of shock turns into slight irritation, and just as he’s about to respond fully, Orion decides to open his mouth.

“Does it really have to be him, though?” Orion yawns, taking a bite of his burger.

>”Is there an issue with it being him?”
>”Yes, he’s the most qualified one to do it.”
>”Not necessarily, I guess.”
>”Why are you like this?”
>Write-in.
>>
>>4314162
>”Why are you like this?”
>”He’s the most qualified one to do it.”
>>
>>4314168
support
>>
>>4314162
>Not necessarily but I do owe Goldie a Fight, might aswell let him help with practice. Or do you have someone on mind
>>
>>4314266
Someone else*
>>
Also he can just help for 1 day if Orion really doesn't like him.
>>
>>4314266
supporting this
>>
>>4314162
>>4314168
+1
>>
>>4314168
>>4314256
>>4314311
This goes through - writing now!
>>
>>4314313

You are sorely tempted to facepalm at the sudden interruption by Orion, and you slowly turn to look at the man properly. You’re starting to realize that anger and irritation is a pretty damn good motivator for being able to look at someone – maybe you look into that at some point!

“Why are you like this, Orion?” You say flatly, getting another snort out of Cinder. “He’s the most qualified person to do it o-on-hand.”

The look he sends your way is enough to make you falter in the latter half, and he adjusts his position so he’s no longer slouched.

“He’s Auxilia, and he doesn’t like me. What reason do I have to believe he won’t try to dick me over? Even back then, he always got heated when it came to our team in both interviews and press conferences. Maybe you’re willing to overlook those boundaries, but this is a matter of me still having my home – I have no reason to believe he won’t fuck around and cost me the match by feeding me misinformation, or purposely playing in a manner that I won’t be able to learn from.”

“Hey, listen here—” Golden physically goes to move forward, and your hand darts out to hold him in his seat. It doesn’t do much, but the motion is enough to give him pause, which is all you need.

“Then who would you suggest?” You counter, feeling your own patience chip away slowly. Orion may be an old friend, but you’re not just gonna let him butt heads over old drama – you know that he’s always been the stubborn type, but come on!

“Fletcher, or you.”

“You’re contradicting your own argument from earlier – you said you didn’t talk to Buster because of his own matters, therefore you shouldn’t do the same for him. Not only that, but I already owe Golden a fight, so there’s no reason to exclude him based on your own past stuff. He’s had my back, somewhat, for the past week or so - don’t you trust my word?”

“I did trust your word, once. Look where we’re at now.”

Those short, blunt words feel like a kick to your chest, and you immediately fall silent. This is more than enough for Cinder to finally speak up, who sounds incredibly unhappy.

“Back the fuck off, dude. That isn’t a way to talk to someone who not only was a friend, but someone you’re coming to due to your own mistakes.” You chance a glance up at the girl, who looks like she’s ready to knock a few of Orion’s teeth lose. “You can be mad about what you want, but come on, dude. That was unnecessary.”

Moments of very tense silence pass, and surprisingly, Orion is the one to concede.

“…yeah, that was out of line. Sorry, Wolf.”

You can’t bring yourself to look at him.

>”It’s fine – when do you want to start training?” He’s also in a rough spot, you can’t blame him for being emotional.
>”Golden, want to go have that match now?” You need some time to think, and it seems Warscape’s a place to let off steam.
>”I’m going to go get some air.” It feels like someone has punched you in the chest, and you want to get out of this environment.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4314352
>”It’s fine – when do you want to start training?” He’s also in a rough spot, you can’t blame him for being emotional.
>>
>>4314352
>”It’s fine – when do you want to start training?” He’s also in a rough spot, you can’t blame him for being emotional.
>>
>>4314352
>”It’s fine – when do you want to start training?” He’s also in a rough spot, you can’t blame him for being emotional.
Orion is such a funny character as a super intimating guy but also relatively shy and reserved
>>
>>4314352
>”I’m going to go get some air.” It feels like someone has punched you in the chest, and you want to get out of this environment.
>>
>>4314355
>>4314359
>>4314372
Tensions are high. Writing now!
>>
>>4314391

You take a deep breath and attempt to get a handle on the vestiges of panic rising, gripping your knees and trying your best to rationalize things. Orion is in a very emotional state right now due to the potential loss of his home, which would equal the outburst. You know he’s not a bad guy – at least, he wasn’t - he’s just incredibly abrasive, and he did apologize just now. Whether or not he meant it is another story, but you need to calm down.

“…it’s fine.” You almost jump when you feel Cinder grasp your wrist, and you look over to see her giving a concerned look. Trying to calm your beating heart, you look back over at Orion – all you end up managing is looking at his chest – and continue to speak. “When d-do you want to start training, then?”

You aren’t sure if you’re imagining the tone of regret in his voice or not when he responds.

“I guess we can do it tonight? If you own an arcade and have those consoles, we could just camp out in there for the night, yeah?”

“Works for me.” You say, taking a long sip of your drink and finishing the whole thing as you do. Putting aside Orion’s money situation, it’s clear for you to see that there still is resentment on his end, which is fair. It’s nice to know that some of your fears were not only confirmed, but still have a great effect on you! Good to know for the future, you guess! Being emotionally vulnerable sure is fun.

More silence follows – nobody seems to know what to say, and you have a feeling that you’re going to be the one who needs to break the ice.

>”If you’re against Golden being a trainer, then what do you propose we do?”
>Turn to Golden ask what he thinks would be best to do as a warm-up – Orion has lost the right to complain.
>Break the tension by teasing Cinder for how hard she’s gripping your wrist – it’s starting to hurt.
>Excuse yourself from the table so you can go see if Alexis is here yet – you said you’d drink with her.
>You actually have an idea of your own for how the two of you could train! (Write-in your ideas.)
>Write-in.
>>
>>4314419
>>Excuse yourself from the table so you can go see if Alexis is here yet – you said you’d drink with her
>Suggest to have the match with Golden before we start training with Orion tonight, we did promise we would do it and there's no reason to delay it any longer
>>
>>4314427
supporting this
>>
>>4314427
+1
>>
>>4314419
>>Excuse yourself from the table so you can go see if Alexis is here yet – you said you’d drink with her.
>>
>>4314427
+1
>>
>>4314427
+1
>>
>>4314427
>>4314442
>>4314464
>>4314494
>>4314516
Writing now!
>>
>>4314539

(Ordered pizza and spent some time with the family – pepperoni is god.)

“Alright, then let’s put a pin on this for now.” You tap Cinder’s arm and motion for her to stand up, which she complies with. Moving out of the booth, you turn around so you can face both Orion and Golden. Alexis should be inbound soon enough, and you want to peace out for anyways, so this is a good enough excuse. Maybe some fresh air will make your heart stop racing.

“Before we do anything tonight, I’m gonna play my match with Golden – there’s no reason to keep putting it off.” Golden lights up slightly, although he’s still looking at Orion with scorn. “Golden, you can do whatever you want to do to set up. My landlord is coming and expects to drink with me, so I’m gonna go meet with her for a bit. Does that sound good?”

“Yeah.” Orion responds simply, going quiet and tucking back into his burger, albeit with a few glances that make you feel cold. You’re not sure if it’s intentional or just your body overreacting, but it’s making you uncomfortable, so you immediately turn away to leave without any further words.

You’re able to navigate through the various crowds who are drinking, and a few even give you a sympathetic pat – no doubt because they heard some of the conversation, you figure. The door isn’t far away from your position at all, and when you step out into the open air, your body is immediately assaulted by cold. It isn’t snowing this time around, however your body is still left chilled, partly due to how nervous you had been, leaving your skin flushed.

“Fuck me, dude.” You murmur to yourself with a sigh, pressing the heels of your hands into your eyes.

“Nah, not when I’m the one who paid for dinner.” Cinder quips from beside you, causing you to nearly jump out of your skin. She must have followed you out without you noticing, because to be fair, you are massively focused on your current internal strife. It feels like your emotions have been blitzed to high hell, and now you’re going to be squaring up against Golden, but also teaming up with someone you thought you’d never see again.

All fun and games when it comes to your life, really. At least it’s not 0phelia again!

You hope you didn’t just jinx yourself.

“How are you feeling, man?” Cinder leans against the wall next to you, scanning the street for Alexis’s car.

>”Well enough, considering everything. How are you doing?
>”Honestly, I feel like I want to disappear. I never thought I’d see him again.”
>”I’m trying to think what the fuck I’m going to do about this tournament.”
>Remain silent, and let the angst roll off of you in waves. You feel bad, man.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4314721
>”Well enough, considering everything. How are you doing?
>>
>>4314721
>>”Well enough, considering everything. How are you doing?
>>
>>4314738
>>4314744
Writing now!
>>
>>4314798

“Well enough, considering everything.” You’re not entirely certain what classifies good in this situation – it’s definitely a far cry from having a panic attack, although you’re not ruling that one out just yet, so you can say you’re okay for the moment. Even if things are startling, you have things under control for the moment. “How are you doing?”

“You don’t gotta lie to me, Wolf, I can see how spooked you are.” She pokes you in the side with her pointer finger. “I sort of want to punch that dude out for being an asshole. You and Fletcher are nice, so I was sorta expecting all of you to be.”

“Orion’s nice enough, he’s just…blunt. And he seems to have grown a lot more so over the past five years.” You weakly shrug, but poke her in the side back. “And that’s why I said well enough – I’m doing the best I can.”

“I wouldn’t call that nice at all. He looks like a mean dude, even taking his words out of the equation.”

“That’s just his face.”

“I’m at least glad you didn’t give him any money up front!” She claps you on the shoulder, to which you respond with a snort.

“Don’t care who you are – I’m not taking $15,000 out at the drop of a hat unless it’s for the arcade.” You manage to share a chuckle, silence falling as the two of you stand outside. A few people murmur greetings as they pass in or out of the building, and you’re able to see the street lamps and neon signs light up all down the street. It makes a pretty sight, even if it’s one you’ve seen several times before.

>Bring up those base details she mentioned – she said you could ask her, after all!
>Ask her what she’d do if she were training someone – you value her input quite a bit.
>Thank her for being here for you yet again – she seems to be your only pillar of support.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4314820
I'm gonna be that guy and ask if we can do all three prompts
>>
>>4314820
>All 3
but if not then just
>Thank her for being here for you yet again – she seems to be your only pillar of support.
>>
>>4314826
>>4314896
This definitely can work, writing now!
>>
>>4314975

You take a moment to let out a patented sigh, adjusting your clothes and breathing in the cold winter air. You’ll be happy once things turn to spring, as the mood in the air will be more facilitating of things such as “posi vibes” and “not unwoke scenarios”.

Man, you almost want to hit your head against the wall for even entertaining such a ridiculous thought. What are you, hip with the times or something?

“I’m just lost on what to do, I guess. Orion doesn’t want to be trained by Golden, and with my own lack of knowledge, I don’t’ know what the fuck to do. Any chance I could get some of those basic tips, since you so nicely offered?”

“Of course, but probably not tonight, since you’re gonna be fighting Golden. I can get you briefed tomorrow when I don’t have a few drinks in me, sound good?” Her voice is cheery, and you can make out the tiniest hiccup come from her.

“Yeah, it does. You’re a lifesaver, Cinder…if I can ask, how would you train him?” You look over at the girl, who’s already looking in your direction. “You may not be on the grand stage like Golden, but you know your stuff, right?”

“Well, it really depends.” She leans back and crosses her arms as she ponders. “If we’re getting him up to speed with the game, I’d say a few solo rounds to help him get his bearings, and then immediately throw him into the deep end with some team matches. I don’t think there will be too much problems there due to you guys having actual synergy from Genesys, but you might need some refreshers. If he’s been playing VR games this whole time, the detail shouldn’t be a bother, but he’ll still need to get caught up to speed.”

You can’t help but give her a lingering look as she explains, her eyes upturned towards the darkening sky. You’ve noticed that when she takes the time to explain something, she’s actually quite good at it – even if she is pretty headstrong and stubborn when she wants to be.

“Thanks, Cinder.” You find yourself saying of your own accord, reaching up to scratch at the back of your head. “You’re helping me out quite a lot recently, both with the game and with social shit. It really means a lot to me.”

“Well, it’s not like you haven’t helped me out, you know? You just got me through Edit and Sky, you’ve let me practice after hours for the past five years, and you even let me go without paying sometimes…I’d say that it’s only paying you back, but that’d be a lie. It’s just what friends are for, you know?”

She finally turns her eyes down towards you, and if you didn’t know better, you’d swear her grin is as bright as the street lamps.

“Heyyyyy, you two! Didn’t expect to be getting a welcome party, haha!” A loud voice booms from down the sidewalk, making the both of you flinch.

Looks like your pesky landlord has arrived.

>”Well, you were just taking so long, we couldn’t help ourselves!”
>”Wanted some fresh air. Got an unexpected visitor today.”
>Let Cinder talk to her. You’ll let her take the social reigns once more.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4315046
>”Wanted some fresh air. Got an unexpected visitor today.”
>>
>>4315046
>>”Wanted some fresh air. Got an unexpected visitor today.”
>>
>>4315046
>”Wanted some fresh air. Got an unexpected visitor today.”
>>
>>4315046
>”Wanted some fresh air. Got an unexpected visitor today.”
>>
>>4315046
>"Wanted some fresh air. Got an unexpected visitor today."
>>
>>4315072
>>4315074
>>4315079
>>4315184
>>4315217
Late night update. Writing now!
>>
>>4315366

(Gonna go pass out now, you all have a great night! Thank you very much for reading, it means a lot – see you tomorrow, anons.)

You turn to the right in order to regard your landlord, and you can see that Alexis has discarded her business attire for the day. Where normally she’d show up in something obviously suited for business, she’s exchanged the suit and jacket for a maroon sweater, and the skirt for a pair of blue jeans. Even despite the low light, you can spot her tired eyes from behind the glasses perched on her noise, although it apparently doesn’t affect her enthusiasm.

“I wanted to get some fresh air. Got an unexpected visitor today.” You respond to Alexis, raising an arm in greeting to the brown haired woman.

“Oh, really? Something other than press, challengers, starstruck kids, or jerks? Color me surprised!” She flashes you both a lopsided grin, stopping in place and waving at one of the cars that pass by.

“Jury’s out on the last one. Good to see ya, Alexis!” Cinder murmurs the first bit, before walking forwards and clapping the woman on the shoulder. Once they actually met, it didn’t surprise you that the both of them hit it off – they’re both pretty similar, and when it comes to matters off the clock, Alexis couldn’t really give a damn about acting businesslike.

“Anybody I should be wary about? I’d like to know if we’re gonna need to fix up the arcade again,” Alexis comments after a moment, raising an eyebrow.

“Nah, he’s not gonna hurt my shit physically. Emotionally, however, can be wildly different – it’s one of my old team members.”

You can see the look of concern cross Alexis’s face, and you immediately divert your eyes.

“You just keep attracting trouble, huh? I can try to make sure he doesn’t come on the property—”

“It’ll be fine. I agreed to give him a helping hand.”

She rolls with your words rather fast.

“If you’re sure. Looks like you really do need that drink – I’ll even pay for it, since I’m such a caring landlord~!”

“Tch.” You click your tongue and sigh, jamming your hands into your pockets.

“Are you gonna cover mine, too?” Cinder asks in a fake sweet tone, causing Alexis to loudly laugh.

“You’re not my tenant, so unfortunately not! Unlucky for you!”

Well, you’d bet that Alexis is certainly gonna rope Cinder into drinking with her, judging by the way she’s leading her into the bar by the shoulders. Hell, you can only hope that means you’ll be going into your match clear-minded by the end of all this.

What would you like to do?

>Follow the girls in and have a drink or two – you haven’t caught up with Alexis in a bit, and Cinder’s always good company.
>Go back into the bar and find Orion and Golden’s table – maybe the two of them have made peace at this point.
>Try to find somebody playing a game of darts, pool, or what have you. You’ll distract yourself with games.
>Stay outside and take in this evening air – you’d rather spend some time alone with your thoughts, even if just for now.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4315384
>Follow the girls in and have a drink or two – you haven’t caught up with Alexis in a bit, and Cinder’s always good company.
>>
>>4315384
Let's have a beer with the girls, but then we can try our hand at darts. We need to go for the grand slam of pub games (that also means a rematch in beer pong).
>>
>>4315672
Obviously the beer pong rematch is not going to be tonight if we have to train, but we WILL have our victory dammit.
>>
>>4315384
>Follow the girls in and have a drink or two – you haven’t caught up with Alexis in a bit, and Cinder’s always good company.
>>
>>4315384
+1
>>
Good afternoon, everybody! Spent the morning with my dad, since y'know, Father's Day is a thing. How are you all doing today?

>>4315658
>>4315672
>>4315700
>>4315755
Talk to the girls. Writing now!
>>
>>4315872

As tempting as the option is, you’d rather not sit out here and be a total recluse. The night air will suck after a while, being alone with your thoughts will suck even harder, and you don’t want to have the eventual hazing Alexis will heap upon you for not drinking with her. So, with that in mind, you move off the wall and trail after the two chattering girls.

Stepping into the bar, your eyes immediately go towards the corner booth once again. Orion and Golden seem to be in the middle of an animated discussion, although the volume is too low for you to hear from this distance. Golden looks as if he’s explaining something to Orion, who’s staring back with disinterest as he takes bites of his fries. Before you can try to make out the conversation, you feel a tap on your shoulder, and see that Cinder’s reached back in order to lead you towards the bar.

She must be trying to save you any additional stress. Support tomboy is best tomboy.

“Glad to see you’re doing well despite the vandalism!” Alexis chatters as she takes a seat at one of the stools, quickly ordering a cocktail that you’ve never heard of. “Thought you’d be closed for longer, honestly – I’m pretty impressed!”

“Well, it’s not like there’s much else to do around here – it was nice to have some peace, for once.” You sit next to her, and Cinder takes the seat next to you. “Having people show up for interviews gets real annoying after a while. I have no idea how I used to deal with it – hell, I used to love it.”

“Maybe you’re getting older?” Cinder quips.

“You’re older than me, and I’m damn well sure you’d love to be in the spotlight.”

“Potentially! It hasn’t exactly happened other than small shit, so who knows? Maybe I’ll become Cascade’s PR person, and net you some more business.”

You pale at the grin plastered across her face, and make a mental resolution to never allow her access to anything involving your arcade’s media presence.

“Well, at least your business is running good. It makes me proud to see you come this far~!”

The lilt to her voice makes you shudder.

>”Well, I have you to thank for it. Couldn’t have ran a business at that age without you.”
>”What’s up with your business? Thought you were an infallible landlord.”
>”Maybe you should enlist Cinder to be your PR person. It means she won’t touch my shit.”
>Ask either Cinder or Alexis if they’d like to play a game with you while you chat. (Choose between darts, billiards, or beer pong.)
>Write-in.
>>
>>4315899
>”Well, I have you to thank for it. Couldn’t have ran a business at that age without you.”
>Ask either Cinder or Alexis if they’d like to play a game with you while you chat. (Choose between darts, billiards, or beer pong.)

Darts, so everyone can play without getting too tipsy.
>>
>>4315899
>>”What’s up with your business? Thought you were an infallible landlord.”
>>
>>4315920
support
>>
>>4315920
>>4315967
Play some darts! Writing now.
>>
>>4315971

“Well, I have you to thank for it. Couldn’t have ran a business at that age without you – hell, you were the one running shit until I was old enough to take the reigns.”

You shrug your shoulders and cast your eyes around the room, settling on a seemingly unoccupied dart board near the billiards tables. While there are a few holographic games near the front of the bar, it’s always had a section for “old” games, which are still used just as frequently.

“And don’t you forget it!” Alexis cackles from behind her drink with no malintent, brushing her hair out of her eyes and following your vision. “Feeling up to some darts? I will warn you that getting some booze in me won’t be enough to win – that’s one thing I have over you, champ!”

“Well, if you’re offering.” You manage a chuckle and move off of the seat. Alexis is pretty notorious for being good at darts – you recall a night where she was challenging quite a few people for some free drinks – but hey, you’ve had some more practice with your aim! Maybe tonight’s the night you’ll get one over on her?

You’ll just have to see about that. You turn to Cinder, who’s already in the process of standing up to follow.

“You want in on this too, Cinder? Two’s better than one, especially when going against this fiend.”

“Oh, trust me, I’m well aware. She’s beat me a handful of times too, you know! I’m down, let’s kick her shit in.”

The three of you idly chatter as Alexis signals to the bartender to give her three sets of darts. Cinder snags the red set, Alexis goes for blue, and you’re left with green.

“We doing 301 rules?” Cinder asks, leaning against one of the tables and twirling the dart in one of her hands.

“Yep, as always! Sticking to what’s simple is best!” Alexis takes another sip of her drink, and then turns to you. “Wanna go first, Wolfgang? It’s only fair to give you first shot as a handicap!”

Oh, she’s on.

>”Sure, I’ll take your generous offer.” Line up and prepare to throw.
>”You should be giving that to Cinder, since I’ll be beating both of you.” Smack talk with friends is always warranted.
>”Nah, you can take it. Better not slip up – I’ll give you hell if you do.” Smirk at Alexis, and gesture to the board.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4315996
>>”Sure, I’ll take your generous offer.” Line up and prepare to throw.
>>
>>4315996
>>”Sure, I’ll take your generous offer.” Line up and prepare to throw.
>>
>>4316023
>>4316041
Let the darts fly. Writing now!
>>
File: DART.png (113 KB, 1112x878)
113 KB
113 KB PNG
>>4316048

“Well, I’ll take that generous offer, then.” You move past her and pat her on the shoulder, taking place an adequate distance away from the board. Raising your arm, you squint as you try to determine where exactly where you’re trying to hit. The rules of engagement are quite complex when it comes to darts, and you need the perfect possible strategy in order to—

“Hey, throw the damn dart, already. We have training to do tonight!” Cinder jokes from behind you, making you sigh.

Let’s see how good your aim is. You bring your arm back, and send off the first dart.

>For those who are unaware, a game of 301 in darts is as follows. You start with 301 points, and depending on where you hit on the board with three darts per turn, you will subtract that score from the total. Your goal is to have 0 points first, which will make you the winner! The ring of color closest to the bullseye means the number counts for triple, and the farthest ring means it’s a double. As well as that, if you only have 1 point remaining, yet you make a hit on a 5, it will not count.

>If you have any questions, please ask!

>I want three people to roll me a single 1d20, and describe where you wish to hit on the board. First come, first serve!
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4316063
20, inner ring!
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4316063
BULLSEYE
>>
Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4316063
>>
Rolled 18, 6, 6, 1, 15, 15 = 61 (6d20)

>>4316072
>>4316090
>>4316111
These all go through! For the third poster, please specify where you'd like to hit if you're still around, or I'll just choose one of the first two instead! Writing now!
>>
>>4316119

Letting the first shot fly, you attempt to aim it towards the inner ring of the board. Unfortunately, you’re just the tiniest bit off, and the dart makes its home directly below the line. Gritting your teeth, you make a second shot towards the bullseye, yet it drifts to the right, and embeds itself on the 4 section. Feeling very irritated at this, you make a shot towards the inner 20 line again, and this time it strikes the wall next to where the dartboard is perched upon.

>WOLFGANG: 20 / 4 / OUT = 277

“Strong start, weak finish!” Alexis cackles, and you look behind you with a frown. You can feel the competitive fire within yourself rising, but you keep it cool and step out of the way so Alexis cans step forward.

“Watch how a master does it, Wolf!” She croons, raising an arm and casually throwing a dart towards the board.

It fucking hits on the inner 20 line.

You could swear that you feel a blood vessel pop in your forehead. Alexis slaps her knee and makes another lackadasial shot, however it veers widely off course and sticks in the 1 area. A small frown comes across her face, and she throws once more. The dart sticks in the same place once again.

>ALEXIS: T20 / 1 / 1 = 239

The grin that comes across your face of it’s own accord is scathing.

“Thought you were a master, Alexis?” You say sarcastically, making Cinder giggle.

“Even a master has an off moment, Wolf! Just you watch, sometimes it takes a bit to get going.”

Cinder wordlessly passes by you and throws towards the dartboard. Her first shot goes wide, making her frown. She makes an attempt at the bullseye, and nails it just outside the green ring, scoring 18 points. She makes a second, and it falls south, scoring 3.

>CINDER: OUT / 18 / 3 = 280

“Well, still not enough to put me in second! It is what it is.” She shrugs her shoulders, sliding off her jacket as she does. Your eyes are drawn to her tattoo that’s visible with her sleeveless top – it goes down to her wrist, depicting a red dragon amidst various flora. It’s high quality.

Cinder notices you looking immediately, and gives you a coy grin.

“The board’s over there, man.”

“Oh, shut up.” You step past her.

>ALEXIS: 239
>WOLFGANG: 277
>CINDER: 280

>As before, please roll me a 1d20, and specify where you wish to attempt to hit along with your vote! First three go through.

>”What got you so into darts, Alexis? I don’t believe I’ve ever asked you.”
>”So, how bad did work go today? You said it was hell – were some tenants being rowdy?”
>”Hey Cinder, were you inspired to get that tattoo because of your screen-name, or something else?”
>Write-in any other small talk and or regular talk you wish to engage in!
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4316143
>”So, how bad did work go today? You said it was hell – were some tenants being rowdy?”
>Inner ring! 20! Never give up!
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4316143
”So, how bad did work go today? You said it was hell – were some tenants being rowdy?”
>>
>>4316176
Inner ring
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4316143
>”What got you so into darts, Alexis? I don’t believe I’ve ever asked you.”
Inner ring
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4316143
INNER RING

>”Hey Cinder, were you inspired to get that tattoo because of your screen-name, or something else?”
>>
Rolled 16, 17, 6, 7, 20, 6 = 72 (6d20)

Got my dinner sorted, so let's get the ball rolling again!

>>4316149
>>4316176
>>4316179
These three go through - writing now!
>>
>>4316270

Alright, so maybe your first round wasn’t the greatest in the world – but hey, that’s fine! You are completely confident in your ability to make some great throws. It doesn’t matter what they say, all that matters is that you stick to your guns! Those guns, of course, being the inner ring in the 20 position!

The first dart misses the board.

Your eyebrow twitches, and you squint as you slowly bring your arm up again to throw the second dart. You could swear somebody behind you snickers. With a bit more hesitation, you go for another shot on the inner ring.

The second dart knocks a glass off of the adjacent table.

You sigh deeply as you throw the third shot, almost tempted to look away as you fling the third dart. You nearly jump in place when it connects, and you have to stop yourself from darting forwards to check it. It is only a sliver off from the inner ring, but the fact that you scored a 20 still elates you somewhat.

>WOLFGANG: OUT / OUT / 20 = 257

“Hey, you at least got some points!” Alexis says, stepping past you with a barely contained smirk. You lean against one of the billiard tables and sigh, choosing to focus your effort on talking rather than mental dart failure.

“How bad was work today, Alexis? Were some tenants giving you shit?” You ask her as she makes some shots – she also is going for the inner ring, although misses and scores two 20s. Her third shot goes way off base, and snags a 15.

>ALEXIS: 20 / 20 / 15 = 184

“Ah, someone couldn’t pay rent, and so I went over to evict them. Turns out they trashed the fucking apartment, so I gotta get that all fixed up – seems like they knew they couldn’t pay up, so they bailed.” Alexis shrugs, taking another swig of her glass. “What can you do? Shoulda saw it coming, but I can’t turn down someone in need like that.”

“Sucks to hear that.” Cinder says as she makes her rounds – she seems to be aiming for the bullseye once more, although her first shot goes wide and snags a 6. You see her narrow her eyes and stick her tongue out slightly on her second shot, and after a moment’s hesitation, she lets the dart loose.

PING!

You can’t help but feel a bit impressed – Cinder’s snagged the bullseye, netting her 50 points.

“Hey, hey! I fucking got it, finally!” She pumps her fist several times, immediately following up with a wild throw. It hits a 17, though, so not bad by any standards.

>CINDER: 6 / BULLSEYE / 17 = 207

She walks back over to you with swagger, extending her fist out for a bump. You roll your eyes, but respond in kind, stepping up to the plate.

>ALEXIS: 184
>CINDER: 207
>WOLFGANG: 257

>Roll 1d20 – specify your area, and the first three make it in!

>”You should really be more careful about stuff like that, Alexis. This happens too often.”
>”Hey, if it weren’t for that kindness, you probably wouldn’t have given me a place.”
>”Be careful, Cinder. If you get too confident, I might just take your spot.”
>Write-in.
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4316295
>>”You should really be more careful about stuff like that, Alexis. This happens too often.”
INNER RING
>>
>>4316295
>”You should really be more careful about stuff like that, Alexis. This happens too often.”

BULLSEYE
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4316329
DAMMIT, SAME PROMPT, FORGOT DICE
>>
Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4316295
>”You should really be more careful about stuff like that, Alexis. This happens too often.”
20
>>
Rolled 10, 15, 4, 5, 1, 14 = 49 (6d20)

>>4316315
>>4316331
>>4316340
These go through - writing now!
>>
>>4316342

“You really should be more careful about stuff like that, Alexis.” You take your spot and line up the dart, casting a glance over your shoulder at the brown haired woman. “I’m not in any place to lecture you, considering you let me have a place to stay, but this isn’t the first time it’s happened.”

Turning back around to aim at the board, you try to still yourself and aim true. The first round was mediocre, the last round was shit, but this one should surely lead to greatness! Putting your thumb on the back of the dart to assist its movement, you let the dart fly forward.

“Oh, fuck yes!” You blurt out, cupping your mouth immediately afterwards. You actually hit the inner ring! Let’s fucking go!

“Damn, nice shot, Wolf! Maybe Alexis will have to eat her words after all!” Cinder chuckles, and a few other patrons raise their glasses. They know the pain of defeat at her hands – perhaps today will truly be the end of her streak. You roll with the punches and make a shot off on the bullseye, however it drifts downwards slightly and sticks a 2. Making another one, it goes entirely off course, embedding itself in the wall.

Well, fuck it, you can’t win them all.

>WOLFGANG: T20 / 2 / OUT = 195

“Pretty good round, Wolfgang. I might have to get serious after all!” Alexis chuckles, waiting for you to retrieve your darts before she fires. “And to what you said, I literally can’t help myself. Some people who end up here are in rough straits, and not a lot of landlords take people like that. It may fuck me over in the end, but what can I do, you know?”

She’s far too nice for her own good, sometimes. You respect it, even if you’ll never tell her that to her face.

Again aiming for the inner ring, Alexis sends off her three darts. The first hits a 13, the second drifts up a bit and hits a 20, and the third goes entirely off course.

>ALEXIS: 13 / 20 / OUT = 151

“I really worry about you, sometimes.” Cinder walks forward and takes her position, bringing her arm up. “Doesn’t it get to be a little much, having to clean up after those types every so often?”

Maybe it’s due to her own worry, but the first two shots miss entirely again. She’s able to snag a 15, and that’s enough for her to still remain ahead of you.

>CINDER: OUT / OUT / 15 = 192

“Eh, tonight could be considered one of those nights, but hey! Nothing that a little booze and company can’t fix!” Alexis laughs to herself, rolling up the sleeves of her sweatshirt. “It’s always nice having a night off, you know?”

>ALEXIS: 151
>CINDER: 192
>WOLFGANG: 195

>Roll 1d20 – specify your area, and the first three make it in!

>”You have plenty of nights like this off – but hey, if it helps, I’m glad to do so.”
>”Well, hey, at least you have your dart streak. Although, maybe not for much longer!
>”I wonder if I spent my money recklessly, you’d finally let me stay for free!”
>”You’re one to talk, Cinder. Feels like you’ve been helping clean up plenty of my messes.”
>Write-in.
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4316354
>”You have plenty of nights like this off – but hey, if it helps, I’m glad to do so.”

BIG BUCKS
NO WHAMMIES
BULLSEYE
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4316354
Can I get uh... Inner ring 20
>”You have plenty of nights like this off – but hey, if it helps, I’m glad to do so.”
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4316354
>”You have plenty of nights like this off – but hey, if it helps, I’m glad to do so.”
Inner Ring
>>
Rolled 15, 10, 20, 20, 8, 12 = 85 (6d20)

>>4316358
>>4316360
>>4316361
Oof, that nat 1. These all go through, though, so writing now!
>>
>>4316382

“You have plenty of nights like this off, judging by how much you drag me out to them.” You squint as you try to line up a shot on the inner ring, pushing back some of your hair to get it out of your eyes. “But hey, if they help get you away from your shitty job, then I’m glad to do it.”

Your first shot flies far downwards, and it snags a 7. Wincing at the large gap, you take another at the bullseye, and it veers into a 9. As you set up your third shot on the inner circle, you notice that Alexis has been oddly silent after your words. You draw back your arm, and just as you’re about to throw, she decides to speak up.

“Well, ain’t you a sweet talker – I’m a bit out of your age range, though.”

Your body violently seizes as soon as she says this, and the dart goes not only off the board, but into one of the adjacent tables. Clutching your chest, you sharply pivot around to stare at the girl with a blazing red face.

>WOLFGANG: 7 / 9 / OUT = 179

“I didn’t mean anything like that, damnit—”

Alexis promptly loses her shit, laughing hard enough that she leans on a stool to keep herself upright. When she sees you glaring at her with embarrassment, she reaches up to wipe a tear from her eye, moving past you and ruffling your hair with a free hand.

“Oh, you’re so fun to tease, Wolfgang. Don’t think I’ve known anyone who reacts like you do!”

You grumble to yourself and look to Cinder for salvation, and judging by the way she’s pressing her hand into your mouth, you will find none. You only glance up at Alexis once you hear the three thunks of the darts – and you curse to yourself, because she made another fucking ring shot.

>ALEXIS: 5 / 13 / T20 = 73

“Aw, calm down, Wolf! You don’t gotta be so embarrassed!” Cinder says through a few giggles, poking your cheek as she walks by you. You’re not sure if it’s skill, confidence, or just plain luck – but she nails her first bullseye almost seconds after taking the plate.

>CINDER: BULLSEYE / 9 / 10 = 123

>ALEXIS: 73
>CINDER: 123
>WOLFGANG: 179

>Roll 1d20 – specify your area, and the first three make it in!

>”You’re teasing me now, but wait until I make this comeback. I’m gonna show you.”
>”I-I really didn’t mean anything like that, Alexis, just so you know. Don’t be an idiot.”
>Stare into the dartboard and hope it swallows up your embarrassed existence.
>Write-in.
>>
Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4316391
>Stare into the dartboard and hope it swallows up your embarrassed existence.
Bullseye
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4316391
SO HELP ME IF THIS ISN'T A BULLSEYE

>Stare into the dartboard and hope it swallows up your embarrassed existence.
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4316391
>>Stare into the dartboard and hope it swallows up your embarrassed existence.
in order to minimize our time in this conversation, we might as well hit an INNER RING 20
>>
>>4316404
+ 1
Nice
>>
Rolled 8, 19, 13, 16, 20, 8 = 84 (6d20)

>>4316401
>>4316403
>>4316404
Stare into the abyss, and hope that it stares back. Writing now!
>>
>>4316447

You can’t bring yourself to say anything with the heat on your face – you hadn’t meant anything weird with that whatsoever, but as always, Alexis seems to love teasing you! You had began to slip up and think maybe you should give her some slack, but as soon as that guard drops, she sneaks in and gets you like that!

You have been done dirty on this day, even if it’s really not that big of a deal. You stare into the dart board regardless, and pull your arm back for some more shots. An 11 on the first, a 14 on the second, and fuck yes, you actually manage to hit the ring on the third! You sigh in relief – you’re slowly catching up to Alexis, so maybe you’ll be able to finally conquer her winning streak on this night.

>WOLFGANG: 11 / 14 / T20 = 94

“Looks like you’re doing pretty good, Wolfgang!” Alexis comments, rolling her shoulders as she walks forward. You could swear that you feel a menacing aura coming off of her, and it’s enough for you to step back in face of the sharp gaze she’s casting towards the board.

The first shot goes off – she hits a 14, putting her down to 59 points. You feel a bead of sweat form on your brow.

The second shot goes off – she nails the inner ring on the 19, putting her down to 2 points. A lump forms in your throat.

“Too easy, too easy!” Alexis cackles, leaning back and aiming at the board one last time. With a quick motion, she fires off, and you instinctively shut your eyes in anticipation.

“FUCK!” Alexis curses audibly, garnering not only your attention, but many patrons around her.

Her shot went away from the 2 and up to 20. You sigh in relief, her points will remain the same.

>ALEXIS: 14 / T19 / 20 = 73

“Damn, we’re still in it, Wolf.” Cinder nudges you with her shoulder as she walks by, cracking her knuckles. Your embarrassment fades – for the moment, anyways – in face of the imminent victory. Even if you’re not the one to get it, all that matters is taking Alexis down!

“Are you really, though? I can guarantee that next turn will be my win.” Alexis croons from the table, having procured another drink.

“We’ll see about that,” Cinder murmurs, sending her darts towards the board. The first hits the rim next to the bullseye, making your heart leap. When she hits the bullseye, you and many of the patrons observing have a physical reaction to it. You can see the grin flash across her face as she takes a crack at the inner ring on the 16, but she goes wide and hits the 17.

>CINDER: RIM / BULLSEYE / 17 = 31

The room has become tense.

>CINDER: 31
>ALEXIS: 73
>WOLFGANG: 94

>Roll 1d20 – specify your area, and the first three make it in!
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4316467
bullseye!
>>
Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>4316467
BULLSEYE
>>
Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4316467
BULLSEYE!
>>
>>4316472
>>4316478
>>4316480
Literally cursed
>>
>>4316481
we're in paintown gentlemen
>>
Rolled 15, 15, 3, 10, 11, 19 = 73 (6d20)

>>4316472
>>4316478
>>4316480
Wow. We're cursed again, boys. Writing now!
>>
>>4316566

(Heading off for the night, everyone! Hope you had fun today, and thank you very much for coming around to read! See you all tomorrow – have a great night, anons.)

“It’s time for me to step up, then.” You say dramatically, sliding off your own coat for the first time as you walk towards the line. Spinning one of the darts in hand, you exchange a look with Cinder – a look of affirmation and camaraderie. You both realize that right here, right now, you have to win this. Alexis is too powerful – but if you can just reach 0 before her, it will all be over.

“Do you really think you can approach my level, Wolfgang?” Alexis walks into sight, cocking a hip and staring at you with mirth.

“Perhaps not. But I can get closer.” You flick your hand out and take aim, determination swelling up within you. This is your moment. Swinging it forward with a short battle cry, you can feel the breath the bar takes as the dart flashes forward in the low light.

It hits the wall. So does the next. And the final one.

You physically collapse.

>WOLFGANG: OUT / OUT / OUT = 94

“Looks like you’ll have quite a bit to go before you can reach me!” Alexis gives a faux villainous laugh, gently jabbing your back with her foot as she goes to take her place. You feel shame as Cinder leans down to pat your head. You don’t want pity.

“Watch as I carve yet another mark in my record!” Alexis calls to the crowd that has now formed, twirling the dart as she sends it flying. The first hit is a flat 20 – you feel your heart sink into your gut. The next throw is another 20 – she’s at 33 points. You watch her eyes trail over to the 11 inner ring – and with one last smirk to you and a horrified Cinder, she throws.

KH-THUNK!

It hits the wall. Alexis looks heartbroken.

>ALEXIS: 20 / 20 / OUT = 33

“Oh, thank fuck!” Cinder lets out a hurried breath, cracking her knuckles. “See, we’re not stuck in the woods yet, right Wolf?”

“Kill me.”

“Okay, that’s enough of that!” Cinder laughs and rises up, jauntily strolling over to the line. The crowd is thrumming with excitement – it seriously feels like a small scale arena at this point. Even the bartender is watching, and you can make out Orion and Golden beginning to move pver.

“It’s over for you, Alexis!” Cinder is clearly hamming it up at this point, powerfully tossing the dart at the board. It appeared that she was aiming for the bullseye, but it veered off course into a 9. A bead of sweat trails down her cheek as she sends another out – you wince and look away as it collides, but when you look back, you see it’s hit a 20 rather than the bullseye.

Wait. That means she has 2 points left—

“GOTCHA NOW!” She fully abandons all pretenses of quiet, practically whipping the dart towards the board as hard as she can. Time almost seems to slow as it approaches the surface, and the room takes a collective breath in pure suspense.

It firmly hits the 2. The crowd promptly loses their shit.

>CINDER: 9 / 20 / 2 = 0

(1/2)
>>
>>4316595

People are screaming their heads off as soon as the dust settles, the sounds of clapping and glasses clinking heard all around you. Alexis is looking forward in shock, you can spot the bartender starting to look a tad impatient, and you’re only barely able to pull yourself off the ground in face of the excitement.

Cinder, meanwhile, looks elated.

She slowly pivots and walks towards her abandoned hoodie, a confident sway to her hips as she smirks at Alexis. The crowd absolutely loves this, and small chants of her name are started up as she snatches up the coat, throwing it over her shoulder with her tattooed arm.

Looking at both you and Alexis, Cinder winks, her blue eyes filled with excitement, shock, and radiant levels of smug.

“Looks like I’ve already surpassed you, Alexis.”

>CINDER: 0
>ALEXIS: 33
>WOLFGANG: 94

>MATCH OVER - CINDER WINS!

>Reach out and fist bump the girl – that was pretty fucking hype, goddamnit.
>Pull the girl into a half-hearted hug – you did it, you conquered the beast.
>Sit in silent, salty solitude. You failed, even if you still accomplished your goal.
>Now’s your chance. It’s time to strike. Put her in a headlock. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.

(2/2)
>>
>>4316596
>Now’s your chance. It’s time to strike. Put her in a headlock. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
I'll personally find and kick the ass of anyone that doesn't vote for this
>>
>>4316596
>Now’s your chance. It’s time to strike. Put her in a headlock. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
We can only roll high, right?
>>
>>4316605
+1
Yep, VERY HIGH!
>>
>>4316596
>Now’s your chance. It’s time to strike. Put her in a headlock. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
>>
File: cinder.png (270 KB, 723x1185)
270 KB
270 KB PNG
btw cirno here's some cinder fanart. probably mangled the tattoo design but hope you guys like it!
>>
>>4316596
>Now’s your chance. It’s time to strike. Put her in a headlock. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll
LETA FUCKIN GOOOO
>>
>>4316596
>Now’s your chance. It’s time to strike. Put her in a headlock. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
>>
>>4316596
>Now’s your chance. It’s time to strike. Put her in a headlock. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
We will fail and it will be glorious.
>>
>>4316708
Very nice. For some reason I remembered her hair being in a ponytail but I could be wrong.
>>4316596
>Is that even a question?
>>
>>4316596
>cirno thinking we will ever give up
Cute
>>
Good afternoon, everyone! Very busy morning, but I'm here to write.

>>4316601
>>4316605
>>4316611
>>4316673
>>4316792
>>4316839
>>4316854
>>4316930
>>4316973
Why the fuck did I expect anything else from you madlads? Roll me a 1d20 - best of three wins!

>>4316708
Holy shit, thank you so much anon! She looks amazing, and goddamn the tattoo is slick as hell!
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>4317302
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4317302
Greetings Cir
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4317302
>>
>>4317310
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
>>
>>4317310
OH, MY GOD. Writing now!
>>
>>4317307
Huh...Thx
>>
>>4317310
Proud of you
>>
>>4317314
Classic headlock roll
>>
>>4317323

Today is the day. Many attempts have gone by, where you were conquered by your best friend. Her strength is insurmountable, but in this moment, emotions are elevated. You can see the pure excitement in her eyes, you can hear the rumbling of the crowd, and most of all, you can see the defeat in Alexis’s eyes. Today, one person has been conquered, but you’ll add another to that score.

You pull yourself off the ground using a stool for leverage, and turn to face Cinder with determination in your heart.

It’s just in time to see her arm coming your way, and you’re unable to stop her as she yanks you down against her side by the neck. This causes the crowd to explode again in laughter, and you’re left loss as your attempt has been foiled before it even began. You look up at her from your bent position, and find that smugness has entirely taken over her excited expression. She leans down so she’s close enough for you to hear her, and the words are whispered against your ear.

“Not gonna get me that easy, Wolf! I know what you look like when you’re about to try something.”

Perhaps it’s due to the proximity, but you feel a sudden shiver creep down your spine. Curse this girl for not only being infinitely stronger than you, but also for paying close attention, you guess? You attempt to pull yourself away, but her arm has a vice grip around your neck and shoulders. Looking over at Alexis, you see her expression is a sincere mix of sorrow and amusement.

You’ve lost for the second time tonight, it would seem.

>”Fine, fine, I tap out.” You’ve been foiled, and you have a match with Golden to kick off.
>Reach out to Alexis with your free arm, pleading for assistance. S-She’s kind, right?
>Stay still – if she wants to keep you here, then you’ll just wait until she gets bored and lets you go.
>You aren’t down for the count yet. YOU WILL ESCAPE. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll with DISADVANTAGE.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4317310
I'm proud of you son.
>>
>>4317348
>>You aren’t down for the count yet. YOU WILL ESCAPE. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll with DISADVANTAGE.]
You don't even have to ask
>>
>>4317348
You aren’t down for the count yet. YOU WILL ESCAPE. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll with DISADVANTAGE.]

We all know how this will end cirno. Why are you prolonging the inevitable
>>
File: 1580585223506.jpg (41 KB, 683x453)
41 KB
41 KB JPG
>>4317363
Because you never know, anon.
>>
>>4317348
>You aren’t down for the count yet. YOU WILL ESCAPE. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll with DISADVANTAGE.]
Might as well get rid of the cursed rolls now.
>>
>>4317348
>You aren’t down for the count yet. YOU WILL ESCAPE. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll with DISADVANTAGE.]
>>
>>4317348
>You aren’t down for the count yet. YOU WILL ESCAPE. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll with DISADVANTAGE.]

>>4317366
silence bottom. we know whose ass is going where.
>>
>>4317348
>>You aren’t down for the count yet. YOU WILL ESCAPE. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll with DISADVANTAGE.]
COUNTER SUPLEX INITIATE
>>
>>4317348
>You aren’t down for the count yet. YOU WILL ESCAPE. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll with DISADVANTAGE.]
there is literally no other option

>>4316930
couldn't remember for the life of me. thanks tho bro

>>4317302
you're very welcome my man! thanks for running such a fun quest
>>
>>4317353
>>4317363
>>4317369
>>4317377
>>4317383
>>4317394
>>4317398
COUNTERATTACK. Roll me 1d20 - the best of TWO wins!

>>4317383
How could you call me such a name, anon?

>>4317398
Thank you very much, anon - glad you're having a good time.
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4317400
Allah guide my hand
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4317400
1
>>
>>4317419
Well, it seems the inevitable always happens. Writing now!
>>
>>4317400
I'm sorry have mercy
>>
>>4317453
you've done it now
>>
>>4317427

(Sorry for the wait, had stuff to do around the house! Gotta love it.)

You try with all your might to squirm away from the girl, straining to escape her muscled arm. Unfortunately, this doesn’t bear any fruits, as she seems to be effortlessly pressing you into her side and laughing.

“Looks like I hold your title now, Alexis! Maybe another rematch once things are a little calmer?” Cinder says between laughs, apparently paying no attention to the way you’re trying to escape her clutches.

“I was protecting it for so long…what am I gonna do?” Alexis leans against a table and raises her arm up to cover her eyes in a show of faux dramatics, but her smile betrays her as she looks to the both of you. “Yeah, sure! Guess I’m really gonna have to go as hard as I can next time around, huh?”

“Maybe I should retire from Warscape and start doing dart tournaments!” Cinder snickers, looking down at you. “What do you think?”

“You’re far too good at Warscape, Cinder, the entire game would be lost without you!” You gripe from her side, looking up at her with a raised eyebrow. “Is that what you wanted to hear?”

“Close enough! You’re free to go.” She releases her hold on you, only to snatch your hand and pin it to the table just as you’re properly getting up. You feel your heart stutter to a stop. “You might get me someday, but that’s not today, alright?”

You weakly nod, and she grins cheekily as she lets you go.

“Sheesh. You’re still being dragged around a bunch, huh?” You hear Orion’s voice from over the crowd, and you instinctively flinch at the sudden shock. It seems you still have some – most likely lots – of stuff to work through regarding him and your team, but hey, baby steps.

“Some things don’t change, I guess.” You respond, rubbing at your neck as Cinder cheerfully clinks her glass against anyone who’s willing to reciprocate.

>Ask Orion how he’s doing – things were weird earlier, and you’d like to be friendly.
>Ask him what he and Golden were talking about – if they’re having issues, you’d like to solve them.
>Stay silent and look for Golden – you have to discuss the match with him, and socializing isn’t your strong suit.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4317621
>Ask Orion how he’s doing – things were weird earlier, and you’d like to be friendly.
>>
>>4317621
>Ask Orion how he’s doing – things were weird earlier, and you’d like to be friendly.
>>
>>4317621
>Ask Orion how he’s doing – things were weird earlier, and you’d like to be friendly.
>>
>>4317621
>Talk with Orion, we still have a lot of catching up to do
>>
My internet has been fucking up tonight for a solid while. Gonna get this update out and then head to sleep - thank you all for reading, and I hope you've had a great day. Goodnight, anons!

>>4317626
>>4317629
>>4317655
Try and keep it friendly. Writing now!
>>
>>4318083

“How’re you doing? It looked like Golden was talking your ear off.” You turn towards the man – once again, not meeting his eyes – and find him already with another beer in hand. Orion yawns and leans against a table, crossing his arms as he does.

“Seems to be his favorite habit. I’m doing well enough, I suppose – not like there’s any worry about my home or anything, and no, I’m not saying that as a guilt trip.” He immediately says, taking a sip of his drink. “Golden was just trying to prove why he’d be a good teacher and why he wouldn’t fuck me over, which frankly, I didn’t believe whatsoever.”

You sigh automatically and prepare to open your mouth, but he holds out a hand to stop you.

“But, if that’s how it’s gonna be, I don’t really care at this point. Guess I’ll just have to rely on the ol’ brain to sort through proper information and the like.” He taps his temple with a finger, proceeding to then fidget with one of his many ear piercings. “As long as we can get this shit rolling and that $20,000 in our pockets, we’ll be good.”

Speaking of Golden, you can spot him a bit away from the buzzing crowd, leaning on the bar counter and typing hurriedly into a white cellphone. Every few seconds, he begins to scroll, and his face scrunches up when he sees something he apparently doesn’t like.

“Well, I’m glad we solved it, at least.” You say, raising your eyebrow at the odd sight. “If I had to tie you down into the console just to train you, that’d be irritating.”

That actually gets a laugh – or perhaps a wheezy cough – out of Orion.

>Ask him if Golden told him anything he intends to do for your match – information is advantageous!
>Ask him what he’s been up to over the past five years – you know functionally nothing about the man.
>Walk over to Golden and ask him what he’s up to – might as well talk to him about the match now.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4318086
>Ask him what he’s been up to over the past five years – you know functionally nothing about the man.
Once more I will be that guy, and suggest also
>Ask him if Golden told him anything he intends to do for your match – information is advantageous!
if we have the time.
>>
>>4318090
supporting
>>
>>4318086
>Ask him about what he's been up to over the last five years
>>
>>4318090
+1
>>
Good afternoon, everyone! Hope you're doing well.

>>4318090
>>4318101
>>4318151
This goes through! Writing now.
>>
>>4318762

After your words, a slightly uncomfortable silence falls over the two of you. With the crowd having gotten their fill of excitement from Alexis’s winning streak being toppled, they split back off into little groups, congregating around tables and observing the televisions once more. This leaves you and Orion standing around awkwardly, and Alexis and Cinder chatting and drinking while being none the wiser.

This leaves you with a problem.

Ever since you left the Warscape scene and started the Cascade arcade, your social life has been basically non-existent. The only exception to that has been Cinder’s arrangement with you that led to friendship, and Alexis dragging you out for the occasional drink. This has not made you an expert social navigator by any stretch of the word – with that fact being combined with Orion standing a foot away from you, it’s a nasty cocktail that leaves you sweating bullets.

But, fuck it. Your mother – or former mother, you guess – never raised no quitters.

“What have you been up to?” You blurt out, staring into your bluish-green drink to avoid any looks from Orion. “Over the past five years, I mean.”

Orion exhales through his nose, but it doesn’t quite sound irritated. Just…contemplative.

“Not much, to be completely honest. After Genesys disbanded, I went to a game where playing solo was profitable.” Another chuckle – you remember that he was by far the most money oriented of the team. “I bounced around for the first half a year, but then I settled on Infinite Skies. Things were a lot more rudimentary back then – it was definitely weird when they added in Fullsense – but with the realistic Ais, it caught on in popularity.”

“I see…you never got to finish your story. Did you end up losing that bout, then? I can only assume so if you came asking for help.”

“Well, my story got interrupted, so I guess you’ll never know.”

“…if you won and came here for money, that’d be a pretty skeevy thing to do.” You say with a raised eyebrow, finally looking over to him.

Orion is looking into his own glass, surprisingly. He almost seems to be reluctant to do so.

“If I had the money, I wouldn’t be here. I’m not that much of an asshole, Wolf.”

“Never said you were – was just a hypothetical.”

More silence reigns.

Buster, Drifter, and Fletcher were perfectly sociable people – they all had their oddities, but they had no issue carrying conversations. You and Orion had always been different in that regard – while you were capable of lapping up attention from the media, you never initiated beyond what was asked of you. Orion simply had no presence at all, preferring to keep to himself except when it was asked of him.

>Ask Orion if he knows anything about what Golden has planned for your match up.
>Tentatively ask about the two teammates you haven’t seen hide nor hair of over the past few years.
>Walk over to Golden and get some information from him yourself. The time for fighting is close at hand.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4318776
Tentatively ask about the two teammates you haven’t seen hide nor hair of over the past few years
>>
>>4318776
>>Tentatively ask about the two teammates you haven’t seen hide nor hair of over the past few years.
>>
>>4318776
>Tentatively ask about the two teammates you haven’t seen hide nor hair of over the past few years.
>>
>>4318778
>>4318787
>>4318800
Ask after Drifter and Buster, but politely. Writing now!
>>
>>4318812

“Hey, if it’s okay asking…” You trail off for a moment, trying to find your words.

Despite your bad feelings about how things went down in the end, you’ve always wondered what everyone else has been up to. Usually the thoughts came to you late at night, when questioning literally very single action from the acceptance of the cheat to the end of your tenure. Those questions would turn to thinking about the hatred they must feel and the hatred you knew the fans to feel, which led to hatred for yourself, which led to—

Okay, boss. Let’s pull it back a bit. You exhale deeply and stare into your drink as if it holds the answer.

“Asking what?” Orion says bluntly, sipping at his drink and gazing at you with cool eyes. You don’t think that he’s trying to glare at you, but man, that fucking face of his. Dude looks like he’s gonna stab you for even daring to exist in his presence.

“How…how have the others been? Drifter and Buster, I mean. If you still talk to them, of course.”

Orion pauses, apparently trying to figure out his own words.

“We aren’t very close anymore, admittedly. I do still talk to Drifter once in a blue moon, and Buster is doing his own thing. Drifter went on to play on a pretty popular team – hell, they’re at least in the top 10 from what I hear – called Cardinal. Hell, like I said, I even met her sister. Buster flits about through teams, but I don’t know the reason. He’s always been pretty fuckin’ hard to read, despite his bombastic personality.” He shrugs his shoulders. “They seem to be keeping on alright.”

He stares at you for a moment, making you squirm.

“You’re an absolutely forbidden topic, by the way.”

You deflate slightly – sure, it was expected, but it hurts to hear it.

“Oi, Nova, get over here!” Golden calls out from over the crowd, causing both you and Orion to look over to him. After a moment, Orion groans, gesturing that you should go over.

“He’s a loud fucking talker. Go over there and appease him, Wolf. We’ll have plenty of time to be sappy and catch up over the next few days.”

>”Yeah, we will. Let’s see what he has to say.”
>”Maybe, providing you can put up with him.”
>Shrug your shoulders and walk over in silence.
>Stay over here and continue talking to your ex-teammate. (Write-in what you want to say.)
>Write-in.
>>
>>4318832
>>”Yeah, we will. Let’s see what he has to say.”
>>
>>4318832
”Maybe, providing you can put up with him.”
>>
>>4318832
>”Yeah, we will. Let’s see what he has to say.”
>>
>>4318838
>>4318891
Let's see what Golden has to say to you. Writing now!
>>
>>4318900

You chance a nervous smile at Orion’s words, not entirely sure if he means the latter half of the statement. You’re not really intending to get sappy – is wanting some semblance of a proper reunion sappy? – but you’ll hold onto it and see where it takes you. After all, best case scenario, you can part on amicable terms, and worst case, you never have to see or hear from him again. Sounds like a plan to you!

“Yeah, we will. I’m gonna go see what he wants.”

Orion says nothing to you in response, although he does raise his glass. You take that as affirmment and turn around, walking towards where you saw the boy lingering. He’s still leaning against the bar and typing into his phone, although his blue eyes are now firmly on you.

“What’s up, Golden?” You ask him, crossing your arms. “Did you have a good time talking Orion’s ear off, earlier?”

“Dude’s a prick, that’s all I have to say about that.” Golden is surprisingly frank, eyes flashing over to the man, before returning to you. “Anyways, I wanna know how you want to do this. If I’m picking the field, you should decide the details – it’s only fair.”

“Well, what’s all in the field, then?”

“A very, very small one. Not much cover, only two buildings – it takes place in a dustbowl arena.” Golden says. “I’m looking for a test of skill, I want to finally prove I’m better than you. I’m going to be recording it, if you’re comfortable with that – no live streams, as I don’t want ANY distractions for this.”

He’s practically speaking a mile a minute, and you can’t help but feel a trail of sweat go down your face. You almost forgot that he had a pretty heavy fixation on proving that he was the better player between the two of you, as that was a hotly discussed topic in internet forums and tabloids back in the day. Due to the match ending unfairly at the Invitational, it left an unsolved question in the air – one that he was really fucking looking to confirm, apparently.

>Vote for one option from both sections, please!

>”Sure, might as well if you’re so set on it. I’m down to fight you in front of people.”
>”I’d rather not. I’m still not comfortable in the public eye, so please respect that.”
>”Alright, fine, but I have a condition if you’re going to record it.” {Write-in.)

>Ask him what kind of details he’s looking for you to decide – the statement was pretty vague.
>You’re curious first and foremost what he and Orion were talking about – ask away.
>Try and ask why he felt a dustbowl was the ideal option to prove his skill over yours.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4318936
>>”I’d rather not. I’m still not comfortable in the public eye, so please respect that.”

>>You’re curious first and foremost what he and Orion were talking about – ask away.
>>
>>4318936
>”Alright, fine, but I have a condition if you’re going to record it.”
Keep it private.
>Ask him what kind of details he’s looking for you to decide – the statement was pretty vague.
>>
>>4318936
Supporting >>4318950
>>
>>4318950
this my dude
>>
>>4318950
>>4318970
>>4318973
Keep things quiet, also what does he want from you? Writing now!
>>
>>4318980

“You can record it, if you want.”

“Oh, shit, real—”

“But please keep it to yourself. I’m very uncomfortable with being in the public eye, especially because I never voluntarily did so. If you do happen to beat me, you can have your bragging rights, but let’s please keep it out of the eyes of others. Also, what details are you even looking for?”

Golden muses on this for a few seconds, biting his lip as he crosses his arms. Once again, you’re very uncomfortable about how feminine the gesture is, but you account that to the trace amount of alcohol in your system. He really should cut his hair and get some meat on his bones, goddamnit.

“Alright, that’s fine by me, I guess.” He puts heavy emphasis on the latter part, obviously not liking it, but content to listen to your request. “And by details, I mean how you want the match to go! If I’m the only one who has say in where and what happens in the match, that could be constituted as unfair!”

Oh, you understand what he’s getting at now. You’d be willing to hazard a bet that Orion’s words are hanging on his conscious a bit, although you can see why. He’s on the home team of the company that made the game, so the concept of fairness must mean a lot to him – it would explain some of his aggressiveness, anyways.

“And by details, you want me to dictate how some aspect of the match should be played, right?”

He nods proudly, a small smile flashing across his face before being replaced with an obviously forced frown. You almost chuckle at the boy – he really is trying too hard, after all – but listen to what he has to say.

“Exactly! You can dictate what weapons are used, if you want any special conditions – I will match anything you have to offer, because goddamnit, I will win!” He pumps his fist with a grin, reaching out and tapping your chest with an extended finger. “So come on, Nova, lay it on me!”

Hm, interesting.

>You have nothing to add or take away from the match – you’ll beat him without deviating from the norm, showing that your balance is strong.
>You want a ditto match with him – you’ll be forced to use the same weapon, meaning you can prove you’re better with certain weapons if you win. {Write-in your preferences.)
>You want to have no items in the match – you’ve been given a lot of shit for using them, and it will mean you can prove you can win without them.
>You want to have the bracelet taken off for just one match – you’ll prove to him that you don’t need to be monitored to win. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4319014
>You want to have the bracelet taken off for just one match – you’ll prove to him that you don’t need to be monitored to win. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
>You want the stage to have very little cover, meaning gunfights can be short and extremely dangerous. A desert scenario would do.
>>
>>4319014
>>You want to have the bracelet taken off for just one match – you’ll prove to him that you don’t need to be monitored to win. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
>>
>>4319014
>You have nothing to add or take away from the match – you’ll beat him without deviating from the norm, showing that your balance is strong.
>>
>>4319014
>You have nothing to add or take away from the match – you’ll beat him without deviating from the norm, showing that your balance is strong.
>>
>>4319107
+1
>>
>>4319014
>You have nothing to add or take away from the match – you’ll beat him without deviating from the norm, showing that your balance is strong.
>>
>>4319014
>You have nothing to add or take away from the match – you’ll beat him without deviating from the norm, showing that your balance is strong.
>>
>>4319077
>>4319107
>>4319118
>>4319149
>>4319194
Neither you or he need a handicap. Writing now!
>>
>>4319233

“Nah, I don’t think it’d be genuine if there were any handicaps in play. If either you or I win, that way, we’ll know we weren’t held back or assisted by anything.” You say to the boy, leaning against the bar next to him. “I’ve had plenty of my share of accusations, even before I actually cheated. I don’t want you coming to me angry if I happen to beat you.”

You toss out a small bit of smack as you look to Golden, who’s immediately puffing up his chest as soon as you imply your own victor.

“You’re entirely right, except for one thing. I’m gonna win – the possibility of you winning is close to zero. I’m going to give it everything I have, so you best prepare yourself, Nova.” Golden cracks his knuckles, and you feel a chill go down your spine. No matter how annoying and petulant that he acts outside of game, you can’t forget the fact that he’s not only a pro player, but one who has a hell of a lot more experience than you. He never stopped playing.

While this may be worrisome, you’re confident that you can give him a good fight. Probably.

>”May the best man win, Golden, whether that’s either of us.”
>”Don’t underestimate me, Golden – you’ve seen my streak.”
>Reach over and pat the lad on the head, before going to fetch the others.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4319250
>Reach over and pat the lad on the head, before going to fetch the others.
Good boy
>>
>>4319250
>”May the best man win, Golden, whether that’s either of us.”
>>
>>4319250
>>Reach over and pat the lad on the head, before going to fetch the others.
>>
>>4319250
>Reach over and pat the lad on the head, before going to fetch the others.
>>
+1
>>
+2
>>
Good evening, everyone! Dinner was great, spent some time with family and pals, and now its time to start up again!

>>4319259
>>4319304
>>4319309
Pat the lad. Writing now!

>>4319333
>>4319334
Pat the lad with +3 efficiency.
>>
>>4319639
>Good evening
[Laughs in European]
>>
>>4319639
>Good evening
[Laughs in Brazilian]
huehueuhehue
>>
>>4319639

You don’t find it necessary to say anything to the boy. However the match may fall, you know that’ll be that, so smack talking of any sort won’t have much of a place at that point. If the arena’s small and littered with a few obstacles, that might remove the need for surprise attacks and such – it will be an entirely skill based encounter, meaning that you’ll need to be at the top of your A-game. Especially since you turned down the handicaps, although it was rightfully so, in your opinion.

You don’t need anything extra to take him on. Therefore, all you do is step forward, and place a hand on the smaller boy’s head. His blonde hair is incredibly soft – you sincerely can’t imagine how long it takes to clean, considering the length – and you tousle it slightly. At first, he looks up with surprise, which quickly fades to shock, which fades to embarrassed anger. He takes an open handed swipe at your arm, but you deftly dodge away from him, smirking as you do.

While it may not have much of a place at the current moment, you’re always down to tease Golden.

“The fuck was that for!?” Golden shouts with a red face, garnering a look from the barkeep that shuts him right up. It takes a lot to stifle your own laugh as you move back towards Cinder, Alexis, and Orion.

The first two are still off by themselves chatting, while Orion’s moved on to playing a quick round of nine-ball with another patron. You can spot a drink with two $10 bills underneath it, making you sigh deeply – they’re playing for cash.

“Didn’t I ask you to keep your spending habits in check?” You say to Orion with a bit of irritation, to which he chuckles as he pockets a ball.

“You did, but I just won this money off of your dart game.”

“…did you bet against me?”

“Yep. The cute brown-haired girl looked like she had a better handle on the darts than you ever will, so I made a bet with Goldie over there – I get $10 if you lose, and I’ll owe him $10 if you win. It’s obvious what happened.”

“…well, it’s nice to know somebody was in my corner, at least.”

You want to hit your head against the table, but restrain yourself.

>Move over to Cinder and ask her for some advice on how to handle your match – she’s more up to date with shit than you are.
>Pull Orion aside and ask what he’d do in the match – he has an old school mindset from five years ago, which could give an edge.
>Get everyone together and tell them that you’re heading back to the arcade – you’ll win this off of your own stratagem.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4319684
>>Move over to Cinder and ask her for some advice on how to handle your match – she’s more up to date with shit than you are.
>>
>>4319684
>Move over to Cinder and ask her for some advice on how to handle your match – she’s more up to date with shit than you are.
>>
>>4319684
>Move over to Cinder and ask her for some advice on how to handle your match – she’s more up to date with shit than you are.
>>
>>4319692
>>4319694
>>4319707
Ask her for advice - she knows her shit. Writing now!

>>4319666
>>4319675
[weeps in American]
>>
>>4319739

Shaking your head, you move away from the table with a sigh. Looks like he’s still going to be a heavy work in progress – you’ve no clue if he plans to stick around in any capacity after he gets his money, but if he does, you’ll need to try and curb that habit. You’re far too used to people – namely, Golden – hanging around recently. You just want to run your arcade.

“Yo, Cinder, got a minute?” You call to the girl, who turns around immediately at the sound of your voice. You spot a faint flush in her face, likely due to alcohol, but there’s no falter to her step as she makes her way over to you.

“’Sup?” She asks, voice devoid of any slurring or stuttering. On the rare occasion you’ve seen her drink, she hardly strays far from her normal self, so it really is no surprise to you. She probably just has a bit of a buzz, although you don’t think you can recall seeing her actually drunk.

“Need some advice on my match with Golden, if you’re in a state to give it.” You point to her lightly red cheeks, the corner of your mouth quirking up. “You look as red as a tomato.”

“The fuck I do!” She snorts, crossing her arms and setting down her glass. “Whatcha need from me?”

“A different perspective, if only to try and sort my own strategy out. The map’s apparently a small dustbowl, there’s hardly any distractions, and there’s two buildings.”

“How big‘re the buildings?”

“Beats me, he only told me so things were transparent.”

“Aaaaaah, if it’s small, just go CQC. He likes to carry around a saber, right? Push him into a corner so he’s forced to come at you, parry with knife or gun, shoot, and win. Easy peasy, right? I promise that’s not just my perspective as a CQC main – it seems like the logical thing to do in a limited space!” She wraps an arm around your shoulder and pulls you close, causing you to instinctively freeze up. “Alternatively, find a way to flush him out into the open and pick him off from a distance, buuuuut that’s less reliable.”

“…are you actually drunk, o-or are you fucking with me?” You lean away from the girl, noting to hate your own stutter when you’re of decent mind to do so.

“Nah, haven’t had nearly enough to get me drunk – I can’t remember, have you seen that? I hear it’s wild.”

“Noted. Mind letting go of me so I can walk to the arcade?”

“I could—yeah, I gotcha.” She releases you from the second hold of the night, and drifts away from you in order to grab her hoodie.

You don’t think you’ll ever get used to being touched again, at this rate.

>Lead your companions out of the bar, and to your arcade. It’s about time you settle this score with Golden.
>Try and sneak a text to Fletcher, and let him know about things. You might need him to step in at some point if Orion continues being antagonistic to Golden.
>See if you can access a site that tracks Golden’s inventory, like what was used for Edit. Having information is always useful.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4319766
>>Try and sneak a text to Fletcher, and let him know about things. You might need him to step in at some point if Orion continues being antagonistic to Golden.
>>
>>4319766
>Lead your companions out of the bar, and to your arcade. It’s about time you settle this score with Golden.
>>
Going to head to bed for the night considering I'm mega tired! Thank you all for coming around to read, and I hope you've had a good time doing so.

See you tomorrow, and have a wonderful night, anons. Vote's open until I return!
>>
>>4319775
+1
Also check info on that game Orion mentioned, infinite skies
Wonder if Wolfgang is interested? :3
>>
>>4319766
>Lead your companions out of the bar, and to your arcade. It’s about time you settle this score with Golden.
>>
Good morning, everyone! Starting off early because I have fuck all to do today. How are you guys doing?

>>4319775
>>4319973
>>4320020
Let's do this shit. Writing now!

>>4319973
Who knows, anon? The future is full of infinite possibilities.
>>
>>4320298

Trying to compose yourself the best you’re able, you straighten your clothes and begin the task of gathering everybody up. Cinder and Golden come immediately, but you have to talk Alexis out of another game of darts to restore her own reputation, and you need to forcefully end the pool game Orion’s playing. Eventually, you have everybody in tow, and make your way out into the cool night air.

“Man, I was just about to win, too.” Orion complains, slouching with his hands in his pockets. “Y’know, you turned out to be a real hardass, Wolf.”

You scoff at the boy, turning so you can walk backwards and regard the group.

“I said you should fix your spending habits, and so I did, although it was only so we could finally get started.” You respond easily, turning to look at Golden. “Otherwise, I’m pretty sure Golden would have killed me before the night’s over.”

“He should learn to be fuckin’ patient.” You hear Orion murmur under his breath, drawing the immediate ire of Golden. You turn around again and tune them out while walking down the sidewalk to your arcade.

The street is empty, despite the amount of cars parked all down the sidewalks. The various neon lights of the buildings reflect off of the hoods in the darkness, making you wonder how long you were in the bar. You had came in when it was veering into the late end of the afternoon, and when you went out earlier it was sunset – Christ, you had lost track of time entirely. You’re unsure if it was due to the emotional state of yourself, or the ultra rad dart game you played, but fuck. You’re usually better about stuff like this.

“It’s a nice night out, at least. Not as cold as usual.” You hear Cinder from close behind you, and you move to the side so she can walk beside you. “Wish spring would hurry up and happen.”

“I would, too. More people show up over the summer.” You chuckle – your arcade is pretty well known throughout the area, and it’s more so now that some people know it’s your arcade. The sales will be through the roof!

“Heh, I might have to start coming earlier in the day, then. Don’t want to lose my spot, getting a machine in the summertime is rough. Any chance you’ll set one aside for me?” Cinder jokes, nudging you in the side.

>”You know I can’t do that, Cinder. Everyone gets an opportunity to play.” Be serious – you’re good about making sure everyone can play.
>”Sure, if you want. After all, you’re my number one customer!” Joke with her right back – it’s all in good fun.
>”I mean, I could, if you’re willing to pay for it. Three or four passes should do, right?” If she’ll actually pay for it, you’ll be down.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4320322
>>”Sure, if you want. After all, you’re my number one customer!” Joke with her right back – it’s all in good fun.
>>
>>4320322
>”You know I can’t do that, Cinder. Everyone gets an opportunity to play.”
>"Win a couple tournaments, though, and maybe we could work out a sponsorship.
Half serious, half jokey
>>
>>4320322
>”Sure, if you want. After all, you’re my number one customer!” Joke with her right back – it’s all in good fun.

Raising more flags than the Olympics
>>
>>4320322
>”Sure, if you want. After all, you’re my number one customer!” Joke with her right back – it’s all in good fun
>>
Got some lunch and junk, was pretty great.

>>4320326
>>4320390
>>4320402
Joke with her a bit. Writing now!

>>4320390
It's almost like speaking in semaphore.
>>
>>4320465

“Sure, if you want. After all, you’re my number one customer!” You turn to her and flash a winning smile – at least, what you think might be one – and pat her on the shoulder. “I could always reserve one for you.”

This gives her pause, judging by the way she stiffens a bit in the darkness. You can’t see her face too well, even with the neon signs, but you have a significant suspicion that she’s figuring out what to say next. Cinder isn’t the type to end up speechless very often, so the mere thought of it is enough to give you pause as well.

“Hey, you—” You begin, but Cinder makes a low groan, raising a hand up and running it down her face. You can’t help but raise an eyebrow at this, and you continue your sentence. “—you okay?”

“Yeah, yeah, don’t worry about it.” Cinder’s voice is low and almost rushed, but you can see her shift to look over at you. “Good to know I’m the number one, though – maybe you should sponsor me at this rate!”

“Win a few tournaments and we’ll see.”

“I’ve won far more than a few.” Her voice sounds very confident in that fact, and you know it to be true. She makes a living off of going to 1v1 tournaments and cleaning house. Even getting top 3 is a pretty good accomplishment, netting a neat payout if you’re someone as frugal as she is.

“Heyyyyyy, Wolfgang!” You hear a voice shout from behind you, and you can make out Alexis lightly jogging towards you from the back of the pack. “Think I’m gonna head off. I’m starting to get near a state where I couldn’t drive home for the night, so I better call it here.”

Again, it’s hard to make out much detail to her face in the darkness, but you can imagine she’s flushed from the alcohol. She seemed to be drinking a lot more than you throughout the dart game, anyways.

>”Alright, I’ll see you later, then.” Send her off politely – she can make it home alright, you think.
>”Sure you don’t want to stick around?” She’s crashed on your couch in the past when having drank.
>Ask Cinder if she’ll take Alexis back to her house – she’s a good driver.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4320498
>”Sure you don’t want to stick around?” She’s crashed on your couch in the past when having drank.
And if she declines then
>Ask Cinder if she’ll take Alexis back to her house – she’s a good driver.
>>
>>4320519
+1
>>
>>4320519
supporting
>>
>>4320498
Supporting >>4320519
>>
>>4320519
>>4320527
>>4320533
>>4320550
Writing now!
>>
>>4320559

“You’ve been drinking, Alexis. Sure you don’t wanna stick around?” You say to Alexis, trailing behind a bit so that you’re walking beside her. “You’ve crashed on my couch before.”

“Hm…” Alexis ponders this, raising a hand to her chin as you continue down the street. Your gaze returns to Cinder, who seemingly has slowed down as well as you all approach Cascade. The building is dark, and the water-themed sign hanging above the door isn’t currently turned on. It’s weird seeing the place from the outside at night.

“Yo, Cinder!” You call to the girl, digging into your pocket and pulling out your set of keys. She wordlessly holds up a hand, and you toss them to her, which she catches diligently as she jogs up to the door to unlock it.

“I guess I could do that, sure!” Alexis says, her voice strangely sly as you look over at her. “Anything to score some of your cooking. You need to do it more so I can steal it!”

You snort, remembering very easily how Alexis, on the rare occasions you sat down to eat lunch with her, would peck random bits out of the lunches you made. Usually you grabbed something from the convenience store on the way to your apartment, but whenever you did get the urge to cook, you could count on the fact that she somehow seemed to know.

“Fine, fine.” You wave off her words, reaching the doorway and stepping inside after Cinder unlocks the door.

It’s very odd to see the place looking so dead. Putting aside the encounter you and Cinder had with Rock, it’s still very unnerving to be in this place while it’s completely empty. Your arcade is so full of life and energy and chill beats during the day, so at night, it’s almost a desolate landscape.

Man, that’s really fucking poetic or some shit. You should write that down.

“Man, still blows my mind that you started an arcade.” Orion comments from behind you, stepping in and carelessly tossing his jacket onto the floor. “Thought you would have gone to college or some shit.”

“I dropped out of high school just to play Warscape, Orion.” You say with a regretful tone, remembering how much it took just to get that to happen. “If I hadn’t been as lucky as I am, I likely would be.”

“And that’s all thanks to me, by the way!” Alexis chirps, causing you to sigh. Moving in between a set of machines – Space Channel Rewrite and an antique Street Fighter V cabinet, to be precise – you make your way to the back in order to get all of the lights and such turned on.

The idle conversation between the other four fades out as you find yourself alone in the back.

>Turn on the lights – let’s get this show on the road.
>Try to do some form of planning and strategy beforehand.
>Sneak a text to Fletcher and see if he’s up – get his advice.
>Find a website that could display Golden’s most common loadout.
>Allow yourself a few moments of silence to decompress from all this.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4320613
>Allow yourself a few moments of silence than turn on the lights- let's get this show on the road
>>
>>4320613
>Allow yourself a few moments of silence to decompress from all this
>>
>>4320613
>Allow yourself a few moments of silence to decompress from all this
>>
>>4320613
>>Allow yourself a few moments of silence to decompress from all this.
>>
>>4320618
>>4320629
>>4320633
>>4320661
Take a moment in the confines of somewhere safe. Writing now!
>>
>>4320808

You take a moment to stare at the various power switches, now aware that this is the first bout of silence you’ve had literally all day. The conversations between the others are so far away in the arcade that it’s almost like they aren’t real, and you find yourself leaning against one of your arcade cabinets just to process everything.

You had expected the fight against Edit and Sky to be the end of your excitement for the time being. Sure, more may have came along the line eventually, but you’d have more time to settle back into your position as the arcade’s manager. Then Orion washed up on your doorstep, followed by Golden’s insistence of a battle, and finally attending an official tournament in some capacity. In a moment of vulnerability, you press the heels of your hands into your eyes, and take a moment to breathe.

When you open your eyes again, you’re not sure how long you’ve been sitting there. It’s almost cathartic to finally have a moment to yourself again, and you feel a little bit refreshed due to it. You find it almost hard to believe that everything changed only a few weeks ago – and in a sense, it still feels like your worst nightmares coming to life. You’re not sure what else is gonna come your way at this point, but knowing the universe, it’ll probably—

“Oi, Wolf, did you die over there!?” You hear Cinder’s voice break through the quiet hum of conversation, making you flinch.

“J-Just a second!” You call back, hurriedly moving off of the machine and going to turn on the lights and Warscape consoles.

At least you have friends, now.

You walk through the building and return to your friends, flinching as the colored fluorescent lights slowly turn back on. They cause you to wince slightly due to the darkness only moments ago, but your eyes adjust quickly to the relatively low-light tones.

“Uuuugh, it’s about time!” Golden complains at you when you make yourself known from behind some machines, already leaning against one of the Warscape consoles. “If you’d ran out on me, I’d never forgive you! Are you ready to get this shit started? Don’t tell me I’m gonna need to force you into the console!”

You chuckle at his energetic words, walking over to a console and looking at the rest of your company. Orion has actually dragged the chair you have behind your desk out here, the bastard. Alexis is idly leaning against a machine and tapping at her phone, hardly paying the two of you any attention. Cinder, however, is looking at you with a supportive smile on her face, arms crossed.

Looks like it’s finally time to get this fight started.

>”I’d never do that to you, Golden. I’m done running.”
>”Well, I’m awfully good at running, so you’d have a hard enough time.”
>Don’t say anything – talk is cheap, after all.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4320833
>”I’d never do that to you, Golden. I’m done running.”
>>
>>4320833
>”I’d never do that to you, Golden. I’m done running.”
>>
>>4320833
>”I’d never do that to you, Golden. I’m done running.”
>>
>>4320840
>>4320847
>>4320874
You're done running. Writing now!
>>
>>4320979

“I’d never do that to you, Golden. Not at this point, anyways – we’re already here, after all.” You sit down at one of the consoles and let out a sigh, leaning back into the seat and reaching for the headset. It’s alarming that you’ve gotten to the point where you’re almost used to it again, but you suppose it doesn’t hurt. “I’m done running.”

The boy grins at you, obviously pleased with your statement. He mirrors your position and splays out in the seat, making you cringe – his legs are hooked over the edges, and he looks as if he’s about to fall out of the fucking thing.

“Glad to hear it, Nova! Means you’re not gonna get away from me this time.” He puts out a loud cackle, shoving the helmet onto his head and immediately going slack on the spot moments later. You take a moment to get yourself mentally ready, before narrowing your eyes in determination.

“Let’s get started, then.”

You put the helmet on, and the world goes black.

The ever-weird sensation of your mind being uploaded to the game makes your skin crawl. It’s like you’re being shoved through endless space, unable to see and only being able to feel a facsimile of what you should. Then, the world explodes into color with the loading screen as per usual, and you get yourself all logged into your account.

“Man, don’t think I’ll ever get used to that, at least.”

The air in your home area is musty as always, and the lights similar to your arcade do little to soothe your mind. Compared to sitting in the console, you are now sitting on your now increasingly familiar couch, and it takes a monumental effort not to lean back into it considering how tired you feel.

Your eyes move towards the pillar that will allow you out of the room, and the feminine blue-clad robot stares back at you.

“Ever gonna get off my case, bot?” You call out of irritation, stopping yourself from whipping one of the cushions at it. “Just stay as a bracelet so I don’t have to look at you.”

“I am only programmed to do as such when you exit the room, Nova. Until then, I will remain here.” It responds immediately, voice devoid of any emotion whatsoever. It may be your imagination, but it feels like the robot is staring at you with more irritation than before.

Whatever. The sack of metal can deal with it – it’s time for you to pick a loadout.

>Go with Cinder’s advice and pick a CQC build – you have not only the Silverdollar that loads faster at the expense of potential jamming, but the base game one as well.
>Go with something mid-range so you can take advantage of the two buildings Golden talked about – namely, an assault rifle.
>Go with a long-range build that will take advantage of any high positions available, if any – the Skyfire sniper rifle hasn’t failed you yet (except when it has).
>Go with a stylish build that uses two pistols – if you’re gonna beat this dude, you will clown on him with the full extent of your ability.
>Specify any custom loadout you’d like that these options don’t cover!
>>
>>4321016
>>Go with Cinder’s advice and pick a CQC build – you have not only the Silverdollar that loads faster at the expense of potential jamming, but the base game one as well.
>>
>>4321016
>Go with Cinder’s advice and pick a CQC build – you have not only the Silverdollar that loads faster at the expense of potential jamming, but the base game one as well.
>>
>>4321016
>Go with Cinder’s advice and pick a CQC build – you have not only the Silverdollar that loads faster at the expense of potential jamming, but the base game one as well.
>>
>>4321028
>>4321056
>>4321125
Go for the CQC route. Writing now!
>>
>>4321162

Pulling up your menu, you begin the arduous task of sorting through your inventory for things to take into the fight. You really don’t have a lot of things items wise, considering you used up everything you got from The Gallery against Sky and Edit, but what you DO have is a shotgun. You pull up the Silverdollar and look at its surprisingly resplendent exterior, despite the specks of rust that mar it in some places. Once you linger on it for a bit, the details pop up once more.

>BPQ-19 – Silverdollar.
>Ammunition: 2/12.
>Features: quick-load mechanism, rusty and prone to jamming.
>Creator: fl4showned.

“Well, that’ll do.” You mark it as your primary, swiping over to the Ocelot to mark it as your secondary.

>OCE-01 – Ocelot revolver
>Ammunition: 6/18
>Features: quick trigger, increased range.
>Creator: Dahlia.

There is a space for a third weapon as well that’s currently taken up by your knife, which you’ll allow. That thing has proved surprisingly helpful even in an environment dominated by swords, and it’ll fit perfect for your CQC-oriented build. You’re more than certain Cinder would be proud.

With a more disappointed eye, you look over the rest of the inventory screen. You still have no items that are out of the ordinary, making you sigh deeply. At least you have that slightly better rope, but that’s all it is, fucking slightly better rope.

Sometimes, being poor hurts.

>Secondary Equipment.
>Mk. II Rope.
>Three Auxilia Systems brand health patches. (+20 HP)
>Flashlight (universal fit)
>Binoculars

With a sigh, you eye the notification bar and wait for Golden’s message to come through. After a minute passes without anything, you nervously check your friends list – still mostly empty barring Cinder and Fletcher. 0phelia hadn’t friended you and was able to send a match request (as well as a gift, come to think of it), same as Edit and Sky. The fuck’s taking the kid so long?

“Any idea what the deal is, bot?” You talk to the robot in order to stave off your nervousness. It does not respond to you.

Fuck that robot.

What do you do?

>Send Golden a friend request and ask him what the deal is – you thought he wanted to fight quickly.
>Sneak off to the Warscape marketplace – you’ll get some better items with the limited amount of money you have.
>Read through old messages and face crushing existential terror.
>Antagonize the robot until it gets mad at you.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4321185
>Read through old messages and face crushing existential terror.
>>
>>4321185
>Read through old messages and face crushing existential terror.
>>
>>4321218
>>4321221
Face existential terror, but in a safe-ish environment. Writing now!
>>
>>4321229

Man, you’ve had a long day. First a battle for your pride with Edit and Sky, followed by a battle for your sanity dealing with Orion, and ended with a battle against a true demon with Alexis. There is literally not much else that could exhaust you more than any of those three, so you finally do it. You finally click on the ever-glowing message bar, tantalizing tempting you ever since the first thre- you mean login.

Clicking on it with a finger, you watch as the grey-gold menu shifts into one previously unseen by you. Everything was a bit bland back in the day, but now it’s hyper stylized. There exists three windows that are entirely separated – one is for a list of usernames, the middle and largest is for content of messages, and the third seems to be a social media embed? Looking closer, you see that there’s an option to link your Twitter or streaming account in game.

Huh. That’s pretty fucking fancy.

Turning your head over to the username portion of the message area, you can see a bunch of unfamiliar names. This is no doubt from the many people who have messaged you not only during your return, but beforehand. It doesn’t give any indication of what the contents are, but judging by the gold orbs to the far right, it means that they’re unread. Some even have little green icons by the names, signifying that they’re online.

Damn, this is a good operation, now. You distinctly remember a period where you were always responding to anonymous DMs, and you still don’t know why the fuck you ever did it.

What would you like to read?

>Look at some of the stuff people you don’t know have sent – let’s see what they think of you.
>Check out some old DMs with your teammates for those ultra spicy feelings – you can take it, probably.
>See if Cinder or anyone has ever messaged you at some point in the past – you’re curious.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4321258
>>See if Cinder or anyone has ever messaged you at some point in the past – you’re curious.
There's no better teasing material than this
But also if we have time
>>Check out some old DMs with your teammates for those ultra spicy feelings – you can take it, probably.
>>
>>4321266
+1
>>
>>4321266
+1
>>
>>4321266
>>4321282
>>4321286
TEASING IS GO. Writing now!
>>
>>4321306

As you’re considering what can of worms to open first, an absolutely amazing idea comes to your mind. Cinder is always trying to tease you, although she’s pretty softcore about it. This is a fact of your friendship that you have long accepted, although you’re not quite good at responding in turn due to your fear of touching people and also being a social deadweight. However, you know that she used to be a fan of yours back in the day – this could be some opportunity for some sweet, sweet payback!

You spend a few moments looking around for a search bar in the user section, and when you do, your eyes light up like a kid’s on Christmas. This could be the absolute motherload! You feel abject glee as you begin typing her screenname – Drag0n, for the uninitiated – into the bar.

You can’t help but feel like the robot is judging you, even if it’s all the way across the room. You don’t give a fuck, and instead splay across the couch for the first time ever – it’s comfortable, but not big enough. Sad.

It spends a few moments parsing through the many DMs you must have gotten over five years, but your heart nearly jumps with joy when you see that there’s actually something to find, complete with a golden orb!

It also occurs to you that you could have pulled her name up via the friends list, which she’s on, but where’s the fun in that?

You click on the result, and watch as the name jumps off of the list, startling you a bit. It moves up towards the top of the middle window, and you watch as information seems to unfurl like a scroll across the screen.

There are…a lot of messages to parse through, here. As the screen auto-scrolls so you’ll be at the latest section, you can spot messages starting from March 14th, 2025 – two months after you started. You were 16 at the time, meaning she must have been 17.

You can’t stop the grin that comes to your face. Where do you want to start?

>Look towards the beginning – that was when you just started getting notice in the Warscape world.
>Look in the middle - when you were at the height of your popularity in the scene.
>Look towards the end – when you cheated, and your world came crashing down around you.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4321342
>>Look towards the beginning – that was when you just started getting notice in the Warscape world.
only place to start, really
>>
>>4321351
This
>>
>>4321351
sure +1
>>
>>4321342
>Look in the middle - when you were at the height of your popularity in the scene.
>>
>>4321351
+1
If there's time, The end aswell?
>>
>>4321351
>>4321356
>>4321365
>>4321386
This is gonna be fucking good. Writing now!
>>
>>4321397

With just a little bit of uninhibited glee, you place your finger on the middle of the screen and make it scroll upwards, watching as the text that was previously auto-scrolling is now going as fast as technologically possible. This is your opportunity to get some good licks in – man, that terminology sounded weird as fuck – but goddamnit, you’ll finally have some counter-ammo should she ever try to headlock you again!

Eventually, it hits the top, and you begin to read.

>March 14th, 2025 – 6:43 PM
>Drag0n: hey, saw you on that Skillshot stream! that was incredible – i didn’t know you could throw yourself through walls!
>Drag0n: any chance you wanna squad up for some 1v1s???

>March 15th, 2025 – 6:03 PM
>Drag0n: lol, i figured that wouldn’t work. you’re making waves, it’ll be cool to see you kick ass from now on!
>Drag0n: if you ever want a matchup against a rando just hmu lmao

>March 17th, 2025 – 12:53 AM
>Drag0n: man, do pros train this late? hardly anyone’s on at this time of night!
>n0v4_c43s4r: lololololol nah just me, gotta get gud where I can
>Drag0n: oh, shit! didn’t expect a response from you!
>n0v4_c43s4r: captains been workin me like a dog over the past week, sry
>n0v4_c43s4r: lotta messages comin in u know how it is
>Drag0n: haha, that only figures – they had you all over Skillshot again today!
>n0v4_c43s4r: was pretty fun, didnt think id get hit so ez but im still learnin
>n0v4_c43s4r: expect me to do even better next time ;)
>Drag0n: hell yeah, that’s awesome! wanna lobby up?
>n0v4_c43s4r: nahhhhh i gotta get some sleep. mayb next time. u have a good night tho, see you on the flipside
>Drag0n: ok! have a good night! i’ll look forwards to it!

You feel like you’ve stabbed yourself with the sword that you were going to use on Cinder. What the fuck? You used to talk like this? Was this really who you used to be??? More importantly, you’ve actually had a conversation with Cinder far before you knew it was her?????

This reading has opened an incredibly dark door, and you’re not sure if you like the contents anymore.

>Scroll down to the end – see the last messages she sent you in 2025.
>Go to your teammates DMs – relive what your last words were to them.
>Go read some random messages – you need some mindbleach.
>Try to get ahold of Golden and see what’s taking him so long.
>Stop doing this and head off to the marketplace to find better items – he’s taking forever.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4321412
>>Scroll down to the end – see the last messages she sent you in 2025.
>>
>>4321412
>Scroll down to the end – see the last messages she sent you in 2025.
>>
>>4321412
>Scroll down to the end – see the last messages she sent you in 2025.
>>
Going to call it here for the night, I have some more dental shit to get done tomorrow, so I'll be around once again in the afternoon!

Also as an aside, thanks for being patient with me being slightly sporadic. Had some personal shit going on so my attention span's been kinda low. I'll attempt to rectify that in the next day so we'll be back to full form!

Thank you all for coming around to read today, and I hope you've had a good time doing so! Please let me know if you have anything to say, I'd like to make sure things are as good as they can be.

Have a great night everyone! Vote's open until I return.
>>
>>4321412
>Scroll down to the end – see the last messages she sent you in 2025.
>>4321445
Take care cirno, thanks for running as always
>>
>>4321412
>Scroll down to the end – see the last messages she sent you in 2025.
>>
>>4321412
>Scroll down to the end – see the last messages she sent you in 2025.

So, did Wolfgang read that letter from Ophelia? Or did he throw it away?
>>
>>4321990
+1
Didn't we get a message from one of the top gun creators in game before? Did we read it?
>>
>>4322186
nope we didn't

>Scroll down to the end – see the last messages she sent you in 2025.
>>
>>4322196
We actually did
From Thread #3:
>FROM: Dahlia
>Heard you’re back in the fold. Gimme a call if you wanna catch up.
>>
Hello, everyone! Dental appointment went good - gonna be getting my teeth fixed for real next month, so that's fucking awesome! Hope you're all doing well today - let's mosey.

>>4321416
>>4321432
>>4321441
>>4321531
>>4321794
>>4321990
>>4322186
>>4322196
Check out her final opinion. Writing now!

>>4321990
You do indeed have the letter still, but Wolfgang never read it.

>>4322186
>>4322196
>>4322220
Yep, you saw it on another website!
>>
>>4322232

It takes a lot of effort to tear your eyes away from the way you used to talk, and the fact that you had a conversation with Cinder at one point in time – you’re fairly certain you never ended up squadding up with her though, which is a little sad in hindsight. You decide that now’s the time to look at the more recent stuff – as recent as things can get, at least. You scroll down to the very end of the conversation, and see some very familiar dates.

>December 20th, 2025 – 7:30 PM
>Drag0n: hey, what happened in that match??? they just called it, wtf is going on?
>Drag0n: it says you’re still in game, please get back to me soon
>Drag0n: i know i’m just a random person but I’m concerned

>December 20th, 2025 – 10:01 PM
>Drag0n: um, damn
>Drag0n: that was something
>Drag0n: the forums are sort of on fire
>Drag0n: i hope you’re doing well
>Drag0n: don’t let it get to you, it was just a mistake i’m sure
>Drag0n: keep on keeping on, nova!
>Drag0n: you at least have one supporter still

>December 21st, 2025 – 12:30 AM
>Drag0n: hey, you’re online again! are you doing okay?
>Drag0n: shit went kinda sideways at the invitational
>Drag0n: but it’s okay, you can get em next time!
>n0v4_c43s4r: Leave me alone.
>Drag0n: i don’t believe you’ve been cheating all this time
>Drag0n: oh
>Drag0n: okay
>Drag0n: sorry, i get that things must be tough
>Drag0n: have a good night!

>December 25th, 2025 – 11:58 PM
>Drag0n: merry Christmas
>Drag0n: hope to see you back in the scene soon

You stare blankly at the screen, absentmindedly feeling that something is punching you in the chest over and over again.

You think you’re done reading messages for now.

>Send a message to Golden and wait for him to respond.
>Sneak off to the marketplace to acquire new items.
>Just sit here and wait. Maybe antagonize the robot. You don’t know.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4322287
>Write-in.
Message back a thank you or something
>>
>>4322287
>>Just sit here and wait. Maybe antagonize the robot. You don’t know.
>>
>>4322294
+1
Damn, can't stop the fells
>>
File: aeb6KAv_700b.jpg (36 KB, 700x650)
36 KB
36 KB JPG
>>4322287
>>4322294
>>
>>4322294
Kinda cringe so let's not, let's keep it to ourselves
>Send message to Golden
>>
>>4322294
THIS
>>
>>4322294
>>4322287
+1
>>
>>4322287
>>4322294
We can say that in person, why send a text message?
>Message Goldie
>>
Making porkchops tonight. They're too good, bros.

>>4322294
>>4322357
>>4322390
>>4322416
>>4322424
Send her a belated thank you. Writing now!

>>4322357
The feels train never stops.

>>4322390
Lmao.
>>
>>4322509

You find yourself almost closing the message screen in order to focus on something far less emotionally draining, but you hesitate as your finger lingers over the exit button. It would appear that Cinder had been a pretty big fan of you back in the day, judging by the constant stream of messages over the ten months. You snubbed her pretty damn hard at the end, too.

“Ah, fuck it.” You say aloud, running a hand down your face and clicking the text box at the bottom. A virtual keyboard materializes into existence, and you begin writing something sort of short and sappy. You’d be pretty fucking embarrassed to say this to her in person, because you’re a weird socially anxious dude, but it’s enough to soothe your thoughts for the moment.

>n0v4_c43s4r: Thanks for the support, even if I never saw it.

You stare at it for a moment, before erasing it.

>n0v4_c43s4r: Sorry for never responding. Thanks for the sentiment.

You stare at it harder, shaking your head and erasing.

>n0v4_c43s4r: You’ve done a lot for—

Nope, definitely not that. You groan audibly and press yourself further into the couch, glaring at the screen like it’s a mortal enemy. You’ve never been good at picking out words, and you’re once again in a pretty huge fucking rut. How can you give thanks to Cinder for something you haven’t seen in five fucking years? You wonder if she even remembers sending it in the first place – is this a wasted effort? Will it be seen as lame? You really don’t know, and before you can stop yourself, you’ve sent a message.

Goddamnit.

>February 19th, 2030 – 8:45 PM
>n0v4_c43s4r: Thanks for always believing in me, Cinder.

You stare at the words, and weakly drape an arm over your eyes. You can’t believe you fucking said that. When she sees that, she’s gonna rake you over the coals – looks like you both have ammunition over each other, now. As soon as you reflect on how costly of a mistake this may have been, you’re alerted to a ping – on the left menu, you see Golden’s username come into view.

“It’s about fucking time, Goldie.” You groan.

>February 19th, 2030 – 8:49 PM
>Golden: Sorry for the wait, had some shit to deal with. Join my lobby.

Awfully demanding – although that’s how he always is.

>Immediately join – you want to get away from this oppressive room.
>Ask him what the hold up was – you thought he wasn’t about wasting time.
>Snub him off for the moment and go to the market – he made you wait, so you’ll reciprocate.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4322561
>Immediately join – you want to get away from this oppressive room.
>>
>>4322561
>Immediately join – you want to get away from this oppressive room.
Ask him what kept him in voice chat.
>>
>>4322561
>Immediately join – you want to get away from this oppressive room.
>>
>>4322569
>>4322601
>>4322628
Let's get rolling. Writing now!
>>
>>4322635

(Food was so good.)

You’re relieved that the boy finally got his ass in gear. This room is starting to feel oppressive to you – many memories have just hit you at once, and sitting here by yourself is going to leave shitty thoughts festering in your mind. There have been plenty enough instances of that happening late at night for you to know that’s the case. So, without even responding, you click to join the lobby. Out of the corner of your eye, you watch the cylinder next to the robot begin to glow.

“Time to get this shit going.” You rise up off the couch and walk over to the device, the robot staring at you with dead eyes the whole way. It’s offputting how human it looks in stature, even if it’s face is as dead as it could be. You wonder once more if this was a purposeful design decision, and if so, you can only question what the fuck went through Auxilia Systems’ head.

You place your hand over the device, and the robot latches on with a very tight grip. Seconds later, the blue clad being morphs into the silver bracelet – a permanent reminder.

“Well, hopefully it doesn’t zap me, this time.”

You place your hand upon the top of the pillar, and you could swear that the band constricts just a little tighter.

Darkness consumes your vision. You’re tossed through an endless void once again – rather than focusing on how fucking weird the feeling is this time, you’re instead stopped by a white message video that expands across your vision. The sudden light makes you wince, but the contents are plain to see in bold text.

>WARNING!
>You are entering a game in progress.
>Do you still wish to join?

>Yes – let’s fucking go.
>No – this is weird.
>>
>>4322689
>Yes – let’s fucking go
>>
>>4322689
>Yes – let’s fucking go.
>>
>>4322689
>Yes – let’s fucking go.
>>
>>4322698
>>4322699
>>4322701
Let's fucking go. Writing now!
>>
>>4322712

Your response isn’t even a question. You reach out through this ever-stretching dark loading screen, and press that you accept.

>Wonderful!
>Connecting now.

The first thing you notice when you wake up is that it’s hot.

Warm air assaults your exposed skin from every angle, making you feel like you’re in a steam cooker. This means that your mouth is incredibly dry, and you find yourself coughing as you open your eyes, trying to sit up from your prone position.

Another interesting thing – the sky is blue. There are literally no clouds to be seen in the area, leaving a beautiful cerulean sky and an ever-looming sun washing over your body. A quick glance around shows that you’re in the middle of a domed canyon cut into the ground, and there are mounds of sand lining the edge, yet not spilling into it.

“Ain’t that interesting.” You grit your teeth and look around for your bag. You find it laying a few paces away, and you stand up in order to fasten it onto your belt. Usually, some form of notice would be given that the match had started, but you’re astounded at the lack of silence – the only sound is the wind.

You sigh and look around, looking to confirm the details Golden had given to you earlier.

Across the rocky ground, you can spot small smatterings of cover placed haphazardly around the canyon, some made of concrete and some made of steel. There are indeed two buildings placed quite far apart from each other, looking remarkably modern in face of how rustic the area is. They seem to be only one floor tall, making you glad that you hadn’t chosen a sniper – you wouldn’t have much of a height advantage at all.

“This is a pretty nice place, huh?” You hear a voice call to you through the canyon, and you immediately crouch to the ground to cut down the area that he can hit. When no shots come after a few seconds, you look around in confusion.

You can’t find Golden. Not at first glance, anyways.

>Dash towards one of the outdoor sections of cover – you need to be light on your feet.
>Move past the cover and go to one of the buildings – it’ll take longer, but you’ll be more secure.
>Draw your gun and stay put – if he’s gonna come at you out here, you’ll fire right back at him.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4322745
>>Move past the cover and go to one of the buildings – it’ll take longer, but you’ll be more secure.
>>
>>4322745
Let's get to a building.
>>
>>4322745
>Move past the cover and go to one of the buildings – it’ll take longer, but you’ll be more secure.
>>
>>4322745
>Move past the cover and go to one of the buildings – it’ll take longer, but you’ll be more secure.
>>
Got some real bad news. Sorry for the wait.

>>4322747
>>4322749
>>4322750
>>4322968
Take cover in one of the buildings. Writing now!
>>
>>4322990

You drop into a sprinting position and immediately spring towards the building on the right, cursing to yourself as you stumble slightly against the rough ground. Not bothering to draw your gun, you run as hard as you can as you try your hardest to listen for audio cues over the sound of the wind in the canyon. Golden must be somewhere – although if the match was already in progress, he might have moved – and you’re just hoping that it’s not in here.

Barreling through the front door, you whip out your revolver and do a sweep of the room. Other than a few barriers inside the building, it’s entirely empty – there’s plenty of light within due to the large windows that go along the wall facing the other building. You spot two other doorways, and you mentally catalogue them as you crouch down underneath the windows.

“Heh.” You breathe out, hoping that the boy doesn’t spring out behind one of the barriers. Instead, you’re treated to his voice reverberating through the canyon, although muffled due to you being inside.

“I was intending to start this with a duel, but you moved far too fast!” You don’t dare stick your head out to observe the outside – not yet, at least. This revolver has pretty fucking good range at the end of the day, but you know Golden’s an insanely proficient player. “Would you care to step outside in order to oblige me? We do have all the time in the world, after all. I’ve turned off the match timer.”

You don’t like how Golden’s entire attitude has changed. In real life, he acts like a petulant child. In this game, he seems to act like a pompous jerkass.

>”Sure, as long as you don’t stab me in the back!” Call from your position, and cautiously open the front door from your cover.
>”Not a chance in hell!” Move away from the windows and behind the other barriers – see if he takes a shot at you.
>Cautiously peek your head over the windowsill and see if you can see where he is – if you’re stealthy enough, you can shoot at him from here.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4323007
>”Sure, as long as you don’t stab me in the back!” Call from your position, and cautiously open the front door from your cover.

He wants to beat us fair and square. Not with a cheap backstab
>>
>>4323007
>”Sure, as long as you don’t stab me in the back!” Call from your position, and cautiously open the front door from your cover.
>>
>>4323007
>>”Sure, as long as you don’t stab me in the back!” Call from your position, and cautiously open the front door from your cover.
>>
>>4323007
>”Sure, as long as you don’t stab me in the back!” Call from your position, and cautiously open the front door from your cover.
>>
>>4323007
>Duel
YEE HAW TIME
>>
>>4323007
>>4323626
>Duel
>>
Good morning.

>>4323028
>>4323052
>>4323053
>>4323386
Writing now.
>>
>>4323753

“Sure, as long as you don’t stab me in the back!”

Mulling over the boy’s words in your head, you slowly creep away from underneath the window and towards the door you just came through. You’re definitely not gonna open the door and put yourself in clear view, not in case this is a farce. You know that he’s said he wants to beat you fair and square, but you won’t put stock into it unless there’s solid proof behind it.

Reaching out to grasp at the handle, you slowly push the door open and prepare for one or several bullets to come your way. When they don’t, you spend an extra moment deliberating, before hesitantly walking into the sunlight while keeping your body alert.

In front of the other building stands Golden.

His hair is just as long as in real life, although he appears to have part of it tied and thrown over his shoulder. His outfit is mostly white – as expected – barring the few splotches of color and the belts over his waist that hold his bag, a pistol holster, and a sword sheathe. It looks remarkably similar to his old avatar, but he’s obviously changed his tastes over the years – you’d say it looks better, compared to the all-white suit he had beforehand.

“There you are, Nova! I was wondering if I’d need to bust down the windows for you to hear me!” You hate that his boyish tone has shifted into something akin to smug superiority, beckoning you over with a white gloved hand. “As I stated, I wish to have a proper duel – at least to begin with.”

He shifts his body to show you his right hip holster, which seems to contain a silver revolver.

“Like I said, I’d do it as long as you didn’t stab me in the back. Also, stop talking like that, it’s fucking creepy.” You snipe at him, sending as mean of a glare as you can muster in his direction. “How many paces?”

“Just where you’re standing is good.”

You can see Golden’s face twitch in irritation at this distance, although he doesn’t change his tone of voice in the slightest. The buildings are pretty far from each other, although not enough that a pistol – especially a revolver – wouldn’t reach. You run your fingers across the grip of your own – looks like you ended up with a ditto in one regard, although you’re pretty damn sure you can spot an assault rifle strapped to his back.

The wind picks up as Golden takes a stance that you could only assume came straight from a Wild West flick, putting his hand just over the gun and assumedly waiting for you to do the same. You take a moment to see if he’s really serious, but eventually sigh and mirror his posture.

Silence reigns in the canyon. The both of you are frozen, waiting for the other to make a move. It feels like minutes pass in only moments, and after scrutinizing the boy, you can see his hand begin to move.

So does yours.

>Please roll a 1d20. Best of three goes through.
>>
Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4323791
>>
Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4323791
Fingers crossed
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4323791
>>
Very sorry for the long wait. More bad news, more bad feels. Gotta love it.

>>4323796
This goes through. Writing now.
>>
>>4324319

You both are incredibly quick on the draw.

Two gunshots echo around the canyon as both of you move to the side, both bullets missing and crashing as they embed themselves into concrete walls. You curse as Golden fires another bullet in your direction, which you duck under and return – he mirrors your movement, and you’re left ducking down close to the ground.

Fuck, he’s as good of a shot as ever. You doubt you would have been able to dodge had you not been accepting it – it shows why he’s on the top team still, you guess. Gritting your teeth, you know that you have to make a movement here and now, lest he decide to riddle you with more fucking bullets.

>Seek cover so you can engage him more with your revolver – safety first. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>Stand still and fire at him again with your revolver – he may be expecting you to move. [This will require a roll.\
>Rush towards him and pull out your shotgun – you chose it for a damn good reason. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4324333
>>Rush towards him and pull out your shotgun – you chose it for a damn good reason. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>>
>>4324333
>Stand still and fire at him again with your revolver - he may be expecting you to move [ This will require a roll. ] G
Wink
>>
>>4324333
>Stand still and fire at him again
Assert dominance over the twink.
>>
>>4324376
>>4324385
Roll to assert dominance. Please give me a 1d20, best of three wins.
>>
Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>4324388
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4324388
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4324388
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4324388
Darn I was late, sigh
This is what it could have been.
>>
>>4324595
...Truly
>>
>>4324595
Fckin bonkers didn't actually expect to Crit.
Haha ha fuck...It's still to late :(
>>
Hey, finally back. Blegh.

>>4324437
This goes through. Writing now!

>>4324595
>>4324598
>>4324599
This is the biggest shame.
>>
>>4324785

Rather than expending energy in order to move towards cover, you stay directly where you are and raise your revolver towards Golden. You highly doubt that he’ll expect you to stay still in the middle of a gunfight, so you hope to god that it takes him off guard as you pull the trigger. You watch the barrel flash as the bullet races towards Golden, and just when you think it’s about to hit, he literally throws himself to the ground.

You’re entirely unprepared as he fires a shot at you on the way down.

You only barely duck out of the way so that it hits your upper arm. Static pain flares throughout, and you grit your teeth as you rush over and make your way behind a set of cardboard boxes. You let out a shaky sigh and look at your arm – where your sleeve once was fully intact, there is now a smoking hole.

That motherfucker is good. Great to know.

>Player: n0v4_c43s4r
>HP: 80/100 (-20 HP)

“You’re going to need to rely on more than just the element of surprise, Nova!” You hear Golden helpfully chime in from across the canyon, making you bite your lip to stifle a reply. If he’s gonna shit talk you the entire game, you might just hit him in real life – you can accept Edit being a little shit, but with Golden, it’s somehow more personal than that.

Maybe your old rivalry had more of an effect on you than you once thought?

>Held Weapon: OCE-01 Revolver
>Ammunition: 3/18

>Inventory:
>Mk. II Rope.
>Three Auxilia Systems brand health patches. (+20 HP)
>Flashlight (universal fit)
>Binoculars

>Move over to the building once more for better cover – concrete is better than boxes, after all!
>Try to angle a shot off of him from your position – he looked like he was going towards boxes as well.
>Use the grip of your gun to break one of the boxes – maybe there’s some loot inside? Video games be like that sometimes.
>Wait for Golden to make the first move – slow and steady wins the race, after all.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4324804
>Try to angle a shot off of him from your position – he looked like he was going towards boxes as well.
>>
>>4324804
>>Try to angle a shot off of him from your position – he looked like he was going towards boxes as well.
>>
>>4324804
>>Move over to the building once more for better cover – concrete is better than boxes, after all!
>>
>>4324804
>Try to angle a shot off of him from your position – he looked like he was going towards boxes as well.
>>
>>4324817
>>4324842
>>4324916
Nab him from your cover. Writing now!
>>
>>4324924

Steeling your thoughts, you grip your revolver tighter and peek out from behind the pile of boxes, ready to duck behind at a moment’s notice. The air is incredibly hot against your skin, and you can feel a disgusting sheen of sweat making your grip slightly slippery. You can’t help but wonder why Auxilia decided to render sweat of all things in arcade consoles, but not blood – perhaps so it wouldn’t freak out a casual viewer by capping an opponent and spreading their brains across a wall.

Your eyes are immediately drawn to the set of boxes you saw Golden dive behind, and you’re perplexed to see that you can’t see him whatsoever. You’re not certain if he’s bunched himself real low to the ground or if he ran away whilst you were recovering, but it leaves you stressed as you nervously eye both the cover, and the area around it.

“You’re too fucking fast, Golden.” You hiss under your breath, nervously running your thumb over the revolver’s hammer. You’re not dumb enough to waste ammunition – with a revolver, that’s a dangerous plan – but you’re genuinely not sure if he’s still there or not.

You recall an instance from your past career where Fletcher had you running drills against the other member of the team – namely, against Drifter. She played the sniper role on your team, and despite the lack of major realism in the game at that point in time, she kept herself perfectly hidden inside a shadow and was able to end the game in less than a minute against you.

That made you learn to never underestimate what an opponent could do – especially when they’re trying to be sneaky.

The silence in the canyon is heavy.

>Bring out your shotgun and take a shot on the cover itself in an attempt to shred it.
>Aim your revolver towards the bottom part of the cover and fire.
>Break off a piece of one of the boxes and toss it away as a distraction.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4324946
>>Bring out your shotgun and take a shot on the cover itself in an attempt to shred it.
>>
>>4324946

>Bring out your shotgun and take a shot on the cover itself in an attempt to shred it.
>>
>>4324955
Support but also
Break off a piece of one the boxes and Keep it for later
>>
>>4324955
this.
fuck. we really ballsed this up.
>>
Hello, everyone who's still stuck around! Apologies for no updates yesterday, I really needed a break and decided to go somewhere for the day. I'm back, though, so let's continue!

>>4324955
>>4324980
>>4324999
>>4325151
Shred the cover, but also take some of your own boxes. Writing now!
>>
>>4327612

Popping out from behind cover and hoping to god that he doesn’t dome you with his own weapons, you bring out your shotgun and brace it against your shoulder. Even though he could have moved from that point, there’s always a chance that he parroted your movement and is ducking as low to the ground as he can. With that in mind, you smirk and aim for the center mass of the boxes, pulling the trigger and watching the spread race across the open canyon. Wind does little to divert their course, and you feel satisfied as it impacts against the wood, absolutely shredding half of it into dust.

For a moment, you’re uncertain whether you hit anything or not, but your eyes are pretty damn sharp when it comes to this game. You can spot a remnant of white cloth drifting in the air slowly, and you manage a grin – you’re not sure if he was nicked by the shotgun round, or if it just tore off a little bit of his clothes. Either way, you’re fully able to see a silver barrel poke out from between some of the wreckage, and fire a shot off in your direction.

You duck down once more as the bullet takes off a corner of one of the four boxes in front of you, the metal object embedding in the concrete of the building behind you. Not being one to look a gift opportunity in the mouth, your hand darts out to grab a relatively large, but handle-able piece of the structure that clattered to the ground.

Hey, you never know when you’ll need it, right?

>You’ve acquired a sizable piece of wood!

Thanks, inventory notifier. You are truly a paragon of virtue in this desolate, virtual void of depravity.

What would you like to do?

>Put that piece of wood into use and attempt to distract Golden with it – maybe you can ensure a shot.
>Dart either into the building or to a new place of cover – he knows where you are, now. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>Take your revolver out and attempt a shot off on him – if he’s still there, it’ll pack a punch. [This will require a roll.]
>Vault over the boxes and rush the boy with your shotgun – you’ve always been a fan of the direct approach. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4327626
>>Dart either into the building or to a new place of cover – he knows where you are, now. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>>4327626
>>Take your revolver out and attempt a shot off on him – if he’s still there, it’ll pack a punch. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4327655
this
>>
>>4327655
>>4327676
Run. Please roll me a 1d20, best of three goes through!
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4327684
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4327684
GAS GAS GAS
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4327684
>>
>>4327701
Pretty good roll, anon! Writing now.
>>
>>4327740

You decide instantly that it’s best to be anywhere but here in the current moment. Golden could easily tear apart your own cover as soon as he gets his bearings, so you drop into a sprinting position and immediately flee back towards the door your originally came through. You’re very glad that your body can’t feel major exertion in this game, because if it did, you’d probably have keeled over due to sheer strain.

As you run, however, Golden is ready for you this time.

You hear the sharp crackling of assault rifle fire from behind you, and it only encourages you to run faster towards the door. In one instance, you can feel a bullet coast by the back of your neck, but you’re able to reach and promptly throw yourself through the steel door. Your body skids across the ground, and you can make out a muffled “Fuck!” just as the door slams closed.

“Goddamn it.” You say aloud, going to pull yourself up and find a better place to cover yourself while you plan. However, this is interrupted by the sound of glass breaking – not due to any additional gunfire, but due to a round object being thrown inside.

You know, it really does figure that he has grenades on him. If Auxilia didn’t put a price tag on single-use items, you’d have a fuck load of them too.

Either way, you’re faced with a drastic problem. That grenade is seconds away from triggering, and it’s not as if you’re exactly covered at the moment. Golden works incredibly quick, and as if the universe wanted to supplement that, you hear his rifle start firing off as he begins to shatter the rest of the windows as a form of suppressive fire.

That cheeky little fucker.

>Play along with him and get to cover – you’re not gonna risk anything.
>Try to string him along and open one of the back doors – he might think you’ve left if you’re quiet enough.
>Toss the grenade right back out the window and towards his position. You have no fear. [This will require a roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4327766
>Toss the grenade right back out the window and towards his position. You have no fear. [This will require a roll.]
no hesitation
>>
>>4327766
>Toss the grenade right back out the window and towards his position. You have no fear. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4327787
>>4327797
No hesitation. Please roll me a 1d20, best of three wins as per usual!
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4327807
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4327807
>>
>>4327811
>>4327812
Oh
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4327807
I BELIEVE
>>
>>4327814
kek'd
>>
File: thisgunbegood.png (89 KB, 660x655)
89 KB
89 KB PNG
>>4327811
>>4327812
>>4327814
>>
>>4327811
>>4327812
What did you do to anger dice gods so badly!?
>>
>>4327818

You shed off the fear in your heart and rush forward, hoping to god that you’ll reach the thing in time. It’s hard to remember, especially since you’ve been interacting with him on a day-to-day basis, that Golden is a member of Auxilia’s home team. He is one of the best players in the entire world, meaning that he’s really fucking good – especially with putting players right where he wants them.

You reach out for the grenade on the ground and grasp it, twisting around in mid-air in order to toss it back out the window. You can feel your heart pounding in your ears, and just as you move your arm to complete the throwing motion, your eyes widen.

Golden didn’t pull the pin on the grenade.

Seconds later, you feel two bullets hit both your leg and arm with incredible force, and you find yourself thrown back against one of the many barriers inside of the building. Skidding across the ground again, you cough and wince as electricity courses through your body. You can hear Golden howling like a hyena outside, making you glare daggers into the ceiling.

He sure did get you. Motherfucker.

>Player: n0v4_c43s4r
>HP: 40/100 (-40 HP)

Lightly propping yourself up on your elbows and rolling over so you’re fully out of sight, you begin to rack your brain. You look down at the grenade that’s still in your hand, and pocket it. He may have just embarrassed the fuck out of you, but at least you have a grenade now!

>You’ve acquired a grenade!

What would you like to do?

>Inventory:
>Mk. II Rope.
>Three Auxilia Systems brand health patches. (+20 HP)
>Flashlight (universal fit)
>Binoculars
>A piece of wood.
>One fragmentation grenade.

>Lie in wait and see if Golden comes in – you’ll wait for him to make a move this time.
>Heal up – you’re under half health, and you’d rather not take any chances. (Specify how many patches.)
>Move out into the open via one of the back doors – you don’t want to remain in a closed space.
>Get out of cover and try to get a shot off on Golden – he’s countering your CQC loadout perfectly.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4327901
>Heal up – you’re under half health, and you’d rather not take any chances. (2 Patches)
>>
>>4327907
+ 1
>>
>>4327907
+1
>>
>>4327907
+1
>>
>>4327907
>>4327922
>>4328025
>>4328042
Use two - writing now!
>>
>>4328074

Grunting to yourself, you rifle around in your bag and locate two of the three healing patches that you have. You’ve already been knocked down to half health this early in the match, meaning that things would get pretty damn dicey if you didn’t heal right now. You hate the idea of having to heal this early, but hey, any chance to win a fight needs to be taken.

You press them to your chest, and sigh as a cooling sensation comes over your body. You look down at yourself and see the familiar green light for just a moment, before it disappears into the air.

>Player: n0v4_c43s4r
>HP: 80/100 (+40)

Alright, you’re back in fighting shape, somewhat. You’ll definitely hold onto that last healing patch, because to be honest, you know that you’ll need it later. Raising your gun close to your chest, your mind races as you figure out what to do. Golden knows where your position is, meaning that he can keep you here if he really wants to. He has an assault rifle and definitely more than one grenade – you’re at the mercy of distance, unfortunately—

“Heads up!” You’re jarred from your thoughts by a voice screaming from outside the window, and you look up just in time to see Golden barreling through what remains of the window, shattering the entire thing as he lands on his feet.

The two of you stare at each other for a second, and Golden is grinning.

“Might as well make this fast, right?” He says cheekily, drawing his saber and going after you in the same movement.

Well, looks like you can’t assume anything in this fight.

>Please roll me a 1d20. Best of three goes through!
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4328141
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4328141
>>
Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4328141
>>
Good evening, everyone! Had a crazy day today - gotta love having someone new move into the house, and all that comes with it.

>>4328216
Decent enough. Writing now!
>>
>>4329887

You sharply jerk yourself away from Golden just as he bears down on you with a thrust of his sabre, the sharp metal embedding itself in the ground where your head once was. You skitter back and pull your revolver from it’s holster, throwing caution to the wind as you fire a shot off at him – he tears the sword from the ground and deflects the bullet. It goes careening out the window, and you hear a distant collision as it slams into another group of boxes.

“Fuck.” You state aloud, springing to your feet just as Golden surges forward again. Without your knife readily in hand, you instead parry the blow with the grip of your gun, swinging your fist at his face a moment later. He catches it between his arm and side, however ducks away from you when you bring your revolver up for another shot.

It makes sense that he’d have insane skill – he had a fuck load of time to hone it.

With him away from you, you seize the moment to pull out your knife and point it outwards towards him, gritting your teeth as you do. There is a moment of silence in the room, before you surge into action once more.

>Whip out the piece of the box you took from him and attempt to get away.
>Drop the revolver and go for the shotgun – you have him in close range, now. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>Aim at him with your revolver – if he gets any closer, you have the knife. [This will require a roll.]
>Surge forward with your own melee weapon – you’ll match him tit for tat. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4329907
>Drop the revolver and go for the shotgun – you have him in close range, now. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>>4329907
>Aim at him with your revolver – if he gets any closer, you have the knife. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4329907
Heh
>Aim at him with your revolver - if he gets any closer, you have the knife
Was thinking bout using the grenade but we can use it later
>>
>>4329907
>Drop the revolver and go for the shotgun – you have him in close range, now. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>>4329907
>Drop the revolver and go for the shotgun – you have him in close range, now. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>>4329907
>Shotgun
We will put the Silverbullet through the wringer today. Let's just hope it doesn't jam.
>>
>>4329927
>>4329941
>>4329947
>>4329949
Shotgun the fucker. Please roll me a 1d20, best of three goes through!
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4329961
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4329961
NOT AGAIN
NOT LIKE THIS
>>
Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4329961
>>
>>4329963
One of you anons has cursed us again. My god. Writing now!
>>
>>4329995

Sheathing your knife and raising your shotgun towards Golden, you grin viciously as you pull the trigger. It’s about time you got some semblance of an advantage over him, and now that he’s come into the domain of your build, you can’t help but feel an acute sense of elation as you finally score some points on him.

CLACK!

Oh, for fuck’s sake.

Golden was already on the move as soon as you pulled the trigger, but upon the sound of the gun jamming reaching his ears, he sharply pivots on his heel to redirect his course to you. Brandishing his saber, you barely duck away from the arc of glinting steel, using the flat end of the gun to stop the point from slashing open your wrist. Golden, however, takes this opportunity to come forward and clock you directly in the jaw, sending you sprawling across the room and against the wall.

Ow, that bastard packs a punch.

>Player: n0v4_c43s4r
>HP: 70/100 (-10 HP)

You can feel yourself starting to get angrier as you have to dodge another strike. Golden has all but forgotten that his pistol exists, apparently, as he seems hellbent on carving you up with his sword more than anything else. It seems like the universe is also bent on conspiring against you in this match – you’re aware that there was a possibility of the shotgun jamming, but you didn’t expect it to actually do so!

God, you need to do something, and quick. You have the slightest suspicion that the boy is beginning to toy with you.

>Focus entirely on dodging the boy. You want him in range, but don’t want to get hit.
>Run towards the windows and dive through them – at this point, you just want out of sword range. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>Try to fire at him with your pistol – you don’t trust the shotgun right now. [This will require a roll.]
>Double down and go at him with your knife – maybe it’ll take him off guard. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4330026
>Focus entirely on dodging the boy. You want him in range, but don’t want to get hit.
>>
>>4330026
>Try to fire at him with your pistol – you don’t trust the shotgun right now. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4330026
>Try to fire at him with your pistol – you don’t trust the shotgun right now. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4330038
>>4330066
Try to get him with the revolver. Please roll 1d20, best of three makes it!
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4330082
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4330082
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4330082
>>
>>4330089
>>4330113
Noice. Finally some actual Decent rolls
>>
>>4330148
I could only hope that the pain would end
>>
>>4330113
Finally something great! Writing now.

>>4330148
The curse was over as soon as it began!
>>
>>4330157

Whipping out your revolver with a free hand, you raise it and take aim at Golden, who’s already began to move in your direction with malicious intent in his eyes. As soon as he can see your stance, he immediately tries to backpedal, but not nearly fast enough.

You fire once and score a hit directly on his shoulder, making him cry out in shock. Knowing that you only have a single bullet left in the chamber, you decide to fire again while he’s still reacting to the pain. He barely twists out of the way of the bullet, and his expression is one of shock as he hits the ground, immediately springing up and running towards the window.

Just as you make a movement to raise your shotgun, you watch him root around in his bag and pull out another round object – yet another frag grenade, as you expected. Cursing to yourself, you watch as he actually pulls the pin this time, chucking it in your direction as he swan dives through the broken glass.

You can’t help but grin – now this is more like it.

>Please roll me a 1d20 with the best of the three winning, along with picking one of the following options!

>Run out the front door – you’ll chase him to the best of your ability. [This will require a roll.]
>Duck behind cover to avoid the blast. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>Send that grenade right back out the window after him. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>>
Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4330175
>Send that grenade right back out the window after him. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>>
>>4330175
>Duck behind cover to avoid the blast. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>Duck behind cover to avoid the blast. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4330175
>>
Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>4330175
>>
Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>4330175
>Send that grenade right back out the window after him. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4330210
>>4330249
>>4330262
Oh boy! Since we have a tie here, we get to do the good ol' fashioned coin flip. 1 means you duck behind cover, 2 means you try to send that grenade after him! Writing now!
>>
>>4330266

(Unfortunately gonna call it here because a thunderstorm is rolling through the area, and internet has gone out several times! Very sorry for the sporadic updates, shit be crazy with someone new moving into the house and brain being a fuck. Thank you for your patience as always, and I’ll see you guys tomorrow! Have a great evening anons, and I hope you’re doing well.)

You grit your teeth as you surge forward, not willing to allow him this edge over you. Knowing that you won’t be able to reach the grenade in time with your own hands, you stick out your shotgun and just manage to catch it under the edge of the grip, sending it back from whence it came. There’s a moment where you feel a very real sigh of relief, only to see that dashed as you see Golden’s assault rifle bat it into the corner of the room.

A loud explosion occurs as the grenade detonates in mid-air, making you wince and raise a hand to cover an ear. Thankfully, none of the shrapnel comes anywhere close to you, although you watch as various barriers are either cracked or shattered due to the sheer force of the blast.

“Thank God, I lucked out there.” You say to yourself, quickly reloading your revolver as you turn to look where Golden dove out of the window.

You can’t see anything. The only sound that greets you is the ringing in your ears and the distant wind of the canyon.

Looks like you’ve lost sight of him again. He’s really fucking good.

>Go through the front door and give chase – you can’t let him get away!
>Exit through one of the back doors – you’ll try to sneak up on him.
>Approach the window and take cover – maybe you can spot him from here.
>Stay put right where you are – you’ll wait for him to come back.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4330477
> Go through the front door and give chase - you can't let him get away !
Oof those typos
>>
>>4330477
>Go through the front door and give chase – you can’t let him get away!
>>
Good afternoon, everyone! Let's get this ball rolling.

>>4330695
>>4330989
Get through the front door! Writing now.
>>
>>4331273

Springing up from your position, you dash towards the front door of the building with all your might. The windows that Golden threw himself through were practically adjacent to the door to begin with, so you figure that he MUST be somewhere in vision of it. You’re not willing to let this opportunity escape you, especially when you have him on the back foot for once in this fucking match.

Note to self – don’t let IRL annoyance color your view of a player.

You reach out and grasp the handle, pushing the door open with all of your might. To your surprise, however, you feel the door ripped out of your grasp. Before you can process this information and how to respond to it, you balk as the door is roughly smashed against your face, sending you back with a short yelp of pain. It wasn’t enough to actually fuck up your hit points, but the lingering pain is absolutely undeniable.

That fucker must have been waiting just around the corner. If that’s the case, however, then that means—

A sudden bark of laughter from outside of the building makes you sweat.

“See if you can dodge this one, Nova!”

You hear the bark of gunfire, and to your surprise, a bullet tears through the metal door and races towards you.

>Please roll me a 1d20. Best of three wins!
>>
Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4331280
1
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4331280
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4331280
>>
>>4331295
This goes through! Writing now.
>>
>>4331329

You throw yourself to the right just as another barrage of bullets tear through the metal door. With the force that the metal is being torn apart by them, it’s almost like the door is made of paper rather then incredibly solid metal. Dashing up to the wall right next to the door, you wait for the wave of bullets to come through entirely. As soon as you hear the gunfire stop, you swing out and plant your foot right through the large hole, connecting with Golden’s midsection.

“The fuck—”

He doesn’t get to finish, as you charge the door with your shoulder. There’s a moment of resistance as it smashes into Golden’s face, and you hear him yelp as he’s sent flying away from the building. You then proceed to kick the door itself open, taking a moment to observe the man now sprawled across the ground.

His golden hair is fanned out across the ground, and he’s already in the process of picking himself up. The white attire he’s chosen for himself is now sullied from the dirt of the canyon, and the assault rifle he was carrying has been knocked out of his grasp. He’s currently glaring up at you from the ground as he moves, and you can already spot his hand reaching for the revolver in his holster.

“Gotcha now, Goldie.” You say aloud, preparing to descend on him.

>Use your shotgun – he’s right in front of you. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>Use your revolver – keep the shot concentrated. [This will require a roll.]
>Use your knife – he’s stabbed you, and you’ll repay him. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Use the grenade – it’ll disrupt his own shot and spook him. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4331370
>>Use your shotgun – he’s right in front of you. [This will require a LOW roll.]
Obvious choice is obvious
>>
>>4331370
>Use your shotgun – he’s right in front of you. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>>4331370

>Use your shotgun – he’s right in front of you. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>>4331370
>Use your shotgun – he’s right in front of you. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>>4331370
>Use your shotgun – he’s right in front of you. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>>
>>4331379
>>4331400
>>4331401
>>4331402
>>4331403
Obvious choice is obvious. Please roll me a 1d20, best of three wins!
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4331410
>>
Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4331410
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4331410
>>
>>4331416
>>4331426
Finally some good fucking rolls
>>
>>4331426
Goddamn, it's about time. Writing now!
>>
>>4331459

You’ve always been incredibly quick on the draw when it counts.

You quickly grab for your shotgun just as the boy’s hand grasps the revolver’s grip, and you can tell that he thinks he’ll be able to get you off of him by making you dodge. Unfortunately, you have some form of ground to stand on now. He fires, and you practically swing away from it with eloquent steps. Before he can get off another shot on you, you pull the trigger on your shotgun.

Thankfully, it roars just as it’s supposed to.

The spread of the bullet hits Golden square in the chest and sends him flying across the ground, electric pain coursing through the boy’s body. You grin to yourself and step forward, jamming the gun against your shoulder and firing again at the boy.

You watch as he desperately tears off his dirty jacket and swings it around, tossing it directly in the line of fire of the spread. He only manages to soak up half of it, however the rest hits him firmly in the leg, sending him sprawling once again. You can hear him cursing under his breath, no doubt due to a mixture of sheer pain and shock.

The elation that you feel is enough to make you feel incredibly light on your feet. There’s nothing better than a plan that actually works, especially when working with less than stellar materials.

>Reload your shotgun and continue the onslaught – he’s farther from you now, but not out of shotgun range. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>Switch out for your pistol and continue unloading into him – he’s in your sights now. [This will require a roll.]
>Chase after him with your knife in hand – you’ll end this in a single blow. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Make some sort of witty comment towards the lad as he scrambles for safety.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4331472
>>Switch out for your pistol and continue unloading into him – he’s in your sights now. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4331472
>Switch out for your pistol and continue unloading into him – he’s in your sights now. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4331472
>Switch out for your pistol and continue unloading into him – he’s in your sights now. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4331472
>Switch out for your pistol and continue unloading into him – he’s in your sights now. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4331472
>Switch out for your pistol and continue unloading into him – he’s in your sights now. [This will require a roll.]
I'VE GOT YOU IN MY SIGHTS
>>
>>4331477
>>4331479
>>4331480
>>4331481
>>4331483
Gun him down. Please roll me a 1d20, best of three wins!
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4331495
>>
Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4331495
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4331495
>>
>>4331500
Hey, that's pretty good! Writing now.
>>
>>4331528

As soon as Golden gets on his feet again, you quickly stow your shotgun away in lieu of the revolver. When he makes a step forward, you fire from the hip, hitting him in the back of the knee and making him shout.

“For Christ’s sake, Nova!” Golden whines, managing to barely duck out of the way of another shot. You watch him root around in his bag and press three patches – they don’t seem to be Auxilia patches, interestingly enough – to his chest. The green light surrounds him, and moments later, he’s firing at you with his own revolver.

You must have had him down pretty low with your sudden assault. Duly noted.

There’s a standstill as both of you fire a few potshots at each other, ducking between cover as you continue the shootout. A few close calls occur, but both of you don’t incur any damage other than slightly torn clothes. Chances are that Golden will have to buy a new coat after this, which will be easily done – you doubt there were many things in Warscape that could put even a slight dent in his funds.

“Hey, Nova!” Golden calls to you from across the canyon, shattering another box right next to your head as he does.

“Yeah?” You scream back, raising your revolver and firing another shot at him. You see the bullet barely pass by his incredibly long hair, and you swear that you can hear the relief in his tone when he responds.

“Having a good time, yet?” The question he asks surprises you, almost enough to the point where his next shot comes within inches of your head.

“Why the fuck do you care about that?” You respond with irritation, taking a chance to move over to yet another set of boxes. There are an incredible amount of these in the space between the buildings, fitting Golden’s description of this being an incredibly duel oriented arena. There hasn’t been a dull moment yet, and with everything being within short sprinting distance, you doubt that that will change.

“Just answer the question!”

You roll your eyes. You can only imagine the people outside wondering what the hold up is.

>”Yeah, I suppose so!” You won’t lie – this match has been pretty good.
>”Not really, no.” You still aren’t playing entirely willingly.
>”I have never had a good time in my entire life.” You say, like a liar.
>Roll your eyes harder and focus on sniping him – you ain’t gonna answer him. [This will require a roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4331546
>”Yeah, I suppose so!” You won’t lie – this match has been pretty good.
>>
>>4331546
>”Yeah, I suppose so!” You won’t lie – this match has been pretty good.
>>
>>4331546
>”Yeah, I suppose so!” You won’t lie – this match has been pretty good.
>>
>>4331549
>>4331562
>>4331574
Ayyyy, that's pretty good. Writing now!
>>
>>4331546
>”Yeah, I suppose so!” You won’t lie – this match has been pretty good.

he really is showing us a good time...no homo
>>
>>4331585

It hits you in that moment of indignation that hey, you’re actually having a pretty good time.

All of the games you’ve played so far have had some form of reason behind them. 0phelia was because of that fucked bet, Cinder was training, Fletcher was also training, Rock was settling that fucking score, and Edit was for your friend’s pride. Not a single match has just been for funsies, and initially you thought that this was one of the former as well.

However, you don’t think Golden’s playing to his full potential.

He’s gone on and on about using this to prove that he’s finally better, but you think he’d be playing a lot more ruthless than this if it were wholly true. Sure, he’s been in control from the beginning, which absolutely comes with the territory of being on the top team. However, there have been multiple instances of him leaning off you when he shouldn’t have. Golden could have assaulted you when you were confused at the beginning, he could have stayed in the room when you turned the tables on him.

There are a lot of could have’s and should have’s in this match, it would seem. Maybe it’s because you don’t care about the conflict of who’s better, or maybe it’s something else entirely. No matter how you slice it, this match has been entirely stress free for you.

It’s weird, actually enjoying this game.

“…I think I am, yeah.” You say to yourself under your breath, before raising your voice to respond to him. “Yeah, I suppose I am!”

You could swear that, despite the wind that rushes throughout the canyon, you can hear Golden let out a noise of surprise at your response.

“Well, sorry if this changes that!”

Time seems to slow down as you peek over the rim of one of the boxes. You watch Golden in the process of throwing something, only this time, it isn’t a regular frag grenade. The object sailing towards you in the air appears to be a glass ball swirling with pastel color, threads intertwining and coalescing within the small space.

You absolutely do not like whatever the fuck that is.

>Run away from the color ball.
>Shoot the color ball out of the air. [This will require a roll.]
>Try to bat the color ball back at Golden. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Try to catch the color ball. [This will require a VERY HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4331633
>Try to bat the color ball back at Golden. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>>
>>4331633
>Shoot the color ball out of the air. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4331633
>Try to bat the color ball back at Golden. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>>
>>4331633
>Shoot the color ball out of the air. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4331633
>>Try to bat the color ball back at Golden. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
I feel lucky
>>
>>4331633
>Shoot the color ball out of the air. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4331633
>Try to bat the color ball back at Golden. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>>
>>4331635
>>4331640
>>4331646
>>4331742
Play baseball with the color ball. Please roll me a 1d20, best of three makes it through!
>>
Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4331744
it's a critical!
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4331744
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>4331744
god I hope this isn't a 1

>>4331747
nice
>>
>>4331747
Damn, pretty nice, anon! Writing now.
>>
>>4331754

Your body snaps into gear just as the thing is almost to you. If Golden is throwing something at you that is not only round, but also filled with weird shit, you can probably attribute it to being some form of grenade. Admittedly, you haven’t had a great track record when it comes to Golden’s grenades this game, but life is meant to be seized by the horns with no fear!

At least, your life in the game. Your real life is dictated by quite a bit of fear.

Putting aside that sudden existential episode, you pull out your shotgun and grip it like it’s a baseball bat, swinging it like you’re a star batter and colliding directly against the glass sphere. You half expected the thing to break under the pressure, but to your immense relief, it sails directly back to Golden after a loud crack.

Golden looks fucking dumbfounded, before facepalming as he prepares to do the same.

“That fucking LIAR!” He screams out, bashing his own gun into the sphere. You balk as you begin the most fucked version of hot potato you’ve played in your life, and it comes very close to making you keel over laughing. The only thing that stops you is that you have SOME form of professionalism.

“Who—snnrk—lied to you?” You can’t stop yourself from snorting as you catch the sphere on the end of your gun again.

“The motherfucker who sold me this thing! They said it was supposed to break on impact!” Golden’s superior attitude has all but gone out the window in face of his irritation, instead choosing to openly bitch at you about faulty hardware. You almost wouldn’t believe that shit could mess up in this game, were it not for the fact that the shotgun you’re using as a bat jams more often than it actually fires.

Golden’s face is flushed red as he swings at the ball, but as he does, it fucking shatters.

The threads of color contained within the sphere jump out, almost looking like excited snakes as they twirl and dance within the air. There are six of them – red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. You watch as the blend together in a neon dance, before all six jump up and hover directly over Golden. Before he can even deign to move, you watch as they expand outwards, becoming colored squares. Those squares then extend further, firmly embedding themselves into the ground as six arcs. Little wiry veins jut out from the sides to intertwine with each other, taking the appearance of a color-y mesh net.

Golden is in the middle of a rudimentary color prison.

It’s…strangely beautiful.

>Inquire where he got that item from while he’s impeded – you’re curious, and having a good time.
>Use this time to acquire a better position while he’s still stuck – he might not be there for long.
>Pull out your revolver and shoot at him – there’s still plenty of open spots. [This will require a roll.]
>Chuck your grenade inside the structure – he’s trapped there for the moment. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4331787
>Inquire where he got that item from while he’s impeded – you’re curious, and having a good time.
>>
>>4331787
>>Inquire where he got that item from while he’s impeded – you’re curious, and having a good time.
>>
>>4331787
>Inquire where he got that item from while he’s impeded – you’re curious, and having a good time.
>>
>>4331813
+ 1
>>
>>4331792
>>4331807
>>4331813
>>4331837
Ask some questions. Writing now!
>>
>>4331943

Hoping to god that Golden doesn’t up and shoot you for this, rather than taking advantage of his contained position, you move out from behind your cover and lean against a group of boxes. Golden obviously sees this, and you can see him contemplating raising his rifle, but he stops himself from doing so. You’re not sure if that’s due to some notion of fairness in his head, but it gives you time to ask him some stuff.

“If you don’t mind me asking and calling a momentary halt, where’d you get that item from?” You call towards him, crossing your arms. “There’s so much wild shit in this game that I’m hardly sure where all of it’s coming from.”

“This thing in particular?” Golden says, punching the taffy like structure with all of his might. Surprisingly, you watch the prison begin to crumble slightly, earning Golden’s anger further. “Seems like a fucking scam – but it’s from Dr. Gerald’s Invention Emporium. A player named, fittingly, DrGerald runs it. I happened to be walking by the place, saw that in the window, and decided to pick it up.”

“Doesn’t seem to last very long.” You remark, mentally cataloging that name for earlier. If you’re going to be going into that team tournament with Orion, any source of good shit will be used.

“Well, it can’t by game standards.” Golden shrugs his shoulders. Almost on cue, you watch as the neon prison begins to crack and fade into blue polygons. “Not sure how this flows in team-mode, but in 1v1, this thing’s supposed to only be up for a little while. Keeping someone in there for an insane amount of time wouldn’t be very fair, nor would it be fun.”

“Do all items have restrictions like that?” You ask as Golden steps out of the disappearing prison. You’re almost afraid that he’s going to come at you right off the bat, but apparently the match is momentarily shelved in lieu of that sweet, sweet exposition.

“Yeah, in one way or another. Would you mind if I got closer to you in order to give an example?” The boy offers, brushing his incredibly long hair out of his face and back over his shoulder.

>”Yeah, go ahead. It’s not like we’re starved for time.”
>”I’d rather not right now. We can talk about this outside.”
>>
>>4331962
>”Yeah, go ahead. It’s not like we’re starved for time.”
>>
>>4331962
>>”Yeah, go ahead. It’s not like we’re starved for time.”
>>
>>4331973
+1
>>
>>4331972
>>4331973
>>4332013
Let him explain to you. Writing now!
>>
>>4332036

“Yeah, go ahead. It’s not like we’re starved for time.” You say to him, shrugging your shoulders. It may lower the entertainment value for Golden’s recording, but hey, you’re curious enough to call a ceasefire in order to figure out this item making business.

Golden takes your agreement in stride and comes over with long steps, looking you over as he does so. When he takes sight of your shotgun, he holds his hand out, obviously expecting you to hand it over. Long past expecting him to pull anything unfair, you give him the shotgun, which he immediately begins to look over.

“Alright, do you have any clue as to what additional shit was put on this gun?” Golden asks you, his big blue eyes searching yours for an answer.

“Apparently it’s quick to reload, but it also has a chance of jamming.”

“Ah, relatively minor, then. So, how weapon creation in this game works is pretty simple – first, you sketch out and make the gun. People who do this and sell them are cosmetic merchants – they just wanna make your stuff look pretty.”

“I just asked about the item restrictions—”

“Yeah, but you’re not gonna get a better item creation explanation from anyone else, so lemme talk.” He cuts you off sharply, making your brow furrow. “Now, if you want to make any modification to the base stats of the gun, that’s where things get tricky. Any positive change you make has to have a balance with negative shit. So, for example, if I were to make this shotgun fully automatic, I would need to nerf a lot more on it to make it kosher to have in competitive play.”

“…interesting. And what about my revolver?” You pull that out as well. “There weren’t any negative effects listed on the tin, yet it’s allowed in competitive play.”

“Who would list stuff like that when looking for a sale, Nova? Chances are there’s something up with it, but you haven’t figured it out yet.” Golden shrugs his shoulders. “Same goes for consumables – you can generally go off the wall with those as well, but there needs to be a drawback that stops it from being OP along with it. Take the thing I just got trapped in – it could keep you there for ages if unchecked, so that’s why it has such a low lifespan. It turns from being OP to being a momentary deterrent – and sometimes a moment is all you need.”

He’s certainly right about that one. Do you have any other pressing questions you can think of for Golden about the game?

>Ask away – he’s one of the best sources out there. (Write-in what you want to ask!)
>Cut it off here – it’s time to return to battle.
>>
>>4332066
>Ask away – he’s one of the best sources out there. (Write-in what you want to ask!)
Where do the tickets factor in?
How does one access the crafting part of the game?
Does the better rope have drawbacks too?
>>
>>4332107
supporting
>>
>>4332107
this
>>
>>4332107
+1
>>
>>4332107
+1
>>
Good afternoon, everyone! Apologies for no update yesterday, spent the day with some family and friends. It's nice having good weather for once! It's time to get the ball rolling, though.

>>4332107
>>4332398
>>4332400
>>4332806
>>4333313
Fire off them questions. Writing now!
>>
>>4335305

“A long while ago, I heard about a weird gacha ticket system. How does that work, exactly? Would seem weird if just anybody can make lootboxes.”

“You’re entirely right! They are a purchasable commodity. For Auxilia, they have specific lootboxes that hold certain gun and consumable types – assault rifle, shotgun, etc. They’re all baseline, so they have no additional stats or features except for what they started with. People model their guns off of these – in order for an outsider to make a lootbox, they need to fill it full of stuff that you can’t buy normally. Whether this is altered guns, cosmetics, or otherwise – it needs to be exclusive, and you need to have Auxilia’s permission to do so.”

“…I think I kinda get it. That’s pretty dirty, though.”

“It is what it is – if people wanna blow their in-game cash on it, then they’re free to! It’s not like you can pay for money or tickets – at least, not officially. People will trade for real money or favors, it’s just another facet of the game. As long as they aren’t breaking the rules, who cares, really?”

“You think Auxilia would crack down on that, but whatever. Does this mean that stuff like my better rope has some form of drawback?” You fish out the steel-lined rope, which makes Golden shrug.

“I dunno, Nova – I’m guessing they made it stronger at the expense of it having a shorter length? It can get finicky sometimes.”

You sigh – this game has gotten so fucking complicated since you left. What happened to just going out on the battlefield with guns you earned through effort, not through lootboxes? Damn you, Auxilia – but at least you aren’t charging real money for it.

“Well, how do you access that part of the game?”

“You have to be level 50.”

You cough.

“That seems kinda steep, doesn’t it?”

“Trust me – they hand out the first twenty-five levels like candy. After that, though, you gotta work for it. It stops people from coming in just to make shitty items that benefit nobody.”

Silence falls into the canyon between the two of you, before Golden speaks up again.

“So, wanna get back into it? I’ll go back over to where I was.”

“Yeah, sure, go ahead.”

You struggle to hold in your laugh – you stopped in the middle of combat to have a pleasant conversation, and you’re going back into the fight so easily. You’re not certain if it’s Golden’s weird sense of fairness or if he’s just humoring you – either way, he makes his way back over to where the prison was, and stands still.

“Alright, let’s go. 3…2…1!”

You both move at the same time.

>Use your shotgun – even if it doesn’t hit him outright, it’ll disrupt him. [This will require a LOW roll.]
>Shoot him with your revolver – you want a solid impact. [This will require a roll.]
>You have a grenade – toss it at him. [This will require a roll.]
>Rush him with your knife – you have no fear. [This will require a HIGH roll.]
>Write-in.
>>
>>4335331
>>Shoot him with your revolver – you want a solid impact. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4335331
>Write-In : Rush him with your revolver, while hiding a grenade behind your back then tackle him. Dropping or attaching the grenade somehow onto him then get off him. Don't look at the explosion cause that's what cool guys do! [ High roll ]
>>
>>4335331
>Shoot him with your revolver – you want a solid impact. [This will require a roll.]
>>
>>4335331
>>Shoot him with your revolver – you want a solid impact. [This will require a roll.]
The sheer contrast between this match and against Edit is incredible
>>
>>4335337
>>4335516
>>4335577
This goes through - please roll me a 1d20, best of three goes through!

>>4335577
Gotta love playing against a guy who isn't a total assbasket!
>>
Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4335589
>>
Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>4335589
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4335589
>>
Good afternoon! Let's mosey.

>>4335598
This goes through! Writing now.
>>
>>4336905

Both of you pull out your revolvers at the exact same moment, and fire from the hip. It’s almost something out of a very old Western movie – rather than your facsimile of a duel earlier, this felt like the real fucking deal, if only for just a moment. You both are still moving even as the bullets fly through the air, and yet, neither of you are able to move fast enough to avoid some damage.

Golden’s bullet grazes your shoulder, and yours grazes his arm. It’s not enough to do major damage, but it’s enough to make your heart rate spike up regardless.

>Player: n0v4_c43s4r
>HP: 65/100 (-5 HP)

“Damn, would you quit being so fast?” Golden shouts over the wind, causing you to chuckle to yourself.

“As soon as you do the same!” You call in return, ducking down as Golden switches to his assault rifle and sends a volley of shots your way. Gripping your rifle and bracing yourself against the boxes, you wince as he breaks yet another one that’s positioned above you.

So much property damage, goodness!

Just as you decide to fire at Golden again, your attention is drawn to the sound of something hitting the wall behind you. You immediately whirl around to find a grenade sitting in the dirt, obviously thrown to you in a wide arc from across the canyon.

Well, that makes sense. Grenades fucking suck.

>Please roll me a 1d20. Best of three wins!
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4336918
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4336918
Grenades suck but hey, at least it's a normal item!
>>
Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>
Damn, I come back to a great roll. Hell yeah, anon!

>>4336923
Writing now.
>>
>>4337069

Oh, no. You’re not gonna be cowed by a fucking grenade. Even if it sucks ass, it’s as basic as basic can get – you’re glad that for the most part, Golden seems to be packing manageable equipment. This, plus inherent skill that you’re still able to draw upon, allows you to dart forward to clasp your hand around the grenade. In the same movement, you spring up and dodge yet another round of gunfire, pivoting on your foot and tossing it like a baseball right back at Golden.

You’re sure to check that there’s no pin on it this time – thankfully, he’s not trying to bait you anymore.

Through some semblance of luck, it doesn’t explode immediately. It soars through the air towards Golden, who has moved out from behind cover and is in the process of putting away his gun so he can draw his sword. What he obviously wasn’t expecting was his grenade to be thrown directly back at him, and just as he begins to react, the device detonates right against his chest.

BOOM!

The sound is deafening, and when you look towards it, you see from within the smoke that Golden is no longer standing. When it begins to fade, you see that he’s been hurled from the ground and into the side of the building, hard enough that the concrete has begun to crack. You watch as Golden falls from the impact crater and behind another set of cover, unmoving.

You’re not entirely certain that that’s how grenades work, however he easily could have been packing something more intense and you wouldn’t have known. This fucking game, man. Things have changed.

The air is entirely silent in face of the explosion, and you’re left in slight shock as you lean against the adjacent building. A few seconds pass, and yet there’s no pop-up confirming that you won. At the same time, Golden hasn’t moved a muscle.

Something feels strange.

>Sit still and wait for Golden to move – you have all the time in the world.
>Use the grenade that you stole and throw it at him from your position.
>Walk up to him and do the deed execution style – you ain’t afraid to win in style.
>Write-in.
>>
>>4337104
>Sit still and wait for Golden to move – you have all the time in the world.
>>
>>4337104
>Use the grenade that you stole and throw it at him from your position.

Cook it to make sure he doesn't get the chance to throw it back
>>
>>4337104
>Use the grenade that you stole and throw it at him from your position.
I'm wondering if there's someone else in the game. Obviously he could just be playing dead but I've been thinking about that warning that we were joining a game in progress. His body could still be around and there's no pop-up because it's just like in the two-on-two before; the body won't disappear until all team members are dead. Either way, not really a big deal to check and use up a grenade, it's all supposed to be for a 1v1 with him anyway.
>>
>>4337126
>Use the grenade that you stole and throw it at him from your position.
>>
>>4337104
>Use the grenade that you stole and throw it at him from your position.
>>
>>4337104
>Practice your impression of a mortar and throw your other grenade
>>
Good morning, everyone. Nothing like a top of the morning doot to get the blood pumping.

>>4337126
>>4337134
>>4337153
>>4337221
>>4337266
You have a grenade. It does big damage. Why not throw it like intended? Writing now!
>>
>>4337651

Sighing to yourself after a few more moments of no movement, you reach into your bag and pull out the grenade that Golden had tossed at you earlier. You’re not sure if he’s playing dead or there’s some other weird shit going on, but the match hasn’t ended yet, so you have to take as much caution as you can. With that in mind, you pull the pin, and wait a few moments.

You really don’t want him tossing the thing back at you, after all. That would be annoying as hell.

After you’ve waited what you feel is an appropriate amount of time, you toss the grenade at where you can see his legs poking out. The grenade sails over without any resistance or obstacles, and it disappears behind the boxes – and from the look of the arc, it was directly over Golden.

BOOM!

Another explosion rocks the landscape – you watch as Golden’s body is harshly jerked by the blast, making your brow furrow in confusion. That’s weird as fuck – aren’t you in a 1v1 match? He seems dead as hell, judging by everything in front of you. You saw him use three healing patches – and he’s now been grenaded twice. Unless he has a few hidden away in his pack, you can’t possibly fathom what the hold-up is here.

The sound of a gunshot cuts through the wind, making your heart freeze.

You immediately whirl around with sudden anxiety – what the fuck was that? You didn’t hear a bullet fly by you, nor did you hear it impact with anything. You look over at Golden and squint – there’s not even a slight tinge of smoke coming from a gun barrel. Your revolver is out and ready to take on any and all comers, and yet nothing makes itself known to you.

A bead of sweat rolls down your forehead and cheek, and the hot air feels like it’s choking you from the inside.

Out of the corner of your eye, you’re startled as something appears. You’re almost expecting it to be a person, and yet it’s not – it’s an ever increasingly familiar menu.

>MATCH DECIDED!
>n0v4_c43s4r def. Golden
>CONGRATULATIONS!

You nervously grip your wrist – namely, the anti-cheat band – as you give one last look around the area. From this angle, you still can’t see anywhere that gunshot could have come from. Other than yourself and Golden, there are no bodies in the immediate map. You can’t even see anything up in the dunes surrounding the dust bowl, nor anything lingering on the harsh slope downwards.

You’re still anxious as the world slowly begins to fade out around you.

Something isn’t right.

>END THREAD.
>>
>>4337673

Hey guys, looks like we've reached the end of things for the time being! Just what the fuck happened there, huh?

Very sorry for the sporadicness at the end of the thread, got busy with shit, but hey, at least we made it! Thank you for your patience, and I sincerely hope that you enjoyed reading.

It's going to be a little bit before the next thread, as I'm going on vacation out of state in two weeks! So, I'm gonna link a Strawpoll right here - please vote if you're still around, and I'll be resuming on the date of majority decision! https://strawpoll.com/rr9o9fgxd

Thank you again for coming around, anons, it's been great to have you around as always. I'll be hanging around the thread for a little while if you wanna shoot the shit.

See you all soon! Have a great night, friends. Let's hope I don't catch COVID while I'm out!

Gun x Glory! ED: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3FN5az25Zg
>>
>>4337678
Good night cirno, thanks for running, and enjoy your break

>Let's hope I don't catch COVID
And like that you've all but sealed your fate
>>
>>4337691
Y-You don't know that, anon. Thank you for coming around!
>>
>>4337673
What the fuck

We full horror now

If we die in the game, we die in real life!
>>
>>4337678
Thanks for the run!
>>
I thought the gunfire was like a signal to represent the match has officially ended but...It did seem weird.



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