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File: MaxSpiderBanner.jpg (388 KB, 1440x900)
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You are Ben Parker, super-powered criminal and thief extraordinaire. After being bitten by a radioactive spider, you underwent a miraculous change, and adopted the identity of "The Huntsman"! You also adopted the identity of "Spider-Man", for anyone that doesn't know about your illegal exploits, but that's besides the point.

Archive:
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Max%20Spider%20Quest

Last time:
Ben ties up a few loose ends, learns how to cook with Cindy, and captures Electro! But he's not done, yet! Like all great super-powered criminals, Ben's obligated to reach his quota for rubbing elbows with the criminally insane!

Rules:
Most dice rolls will be 1d100. Modifiers will be added depending on the situation or on the alien being used(Usually +10 or -10). Crit successes and crit fails apply. Crit fails can be overridden by crit successes, but crit failures cannot override crit successes.

How to Roll:
To roll dice, type “dice+1d100” in the options field without the quotations. To roll dice with positive modifiers, type “dice+1d100+modifier number” in the options field without quotations, and with an actual modifier number. To roll dice with negative modifiers, type “dice+1d100+-modifier number” in the options field without quotations, and with an actual modifier number.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2

Good luck and have fun!
>>
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“Tell her that…her son is safe, but misses his mother.” you said. “And that her boyfriend got into a lot of trouble searching for her, but he won’t stop. It’s better to hide with her family since they are already putting themselves at risk by searching for her.”

Hill waited another moment to make sure that there wouldn’t be anything else to add, and then pulled her phone out to make a few notes on the nature of your request.

“Alright. I’ll look into it.” she promised. “I don’t suppose you have any leads on where she might be?”

You didn’t even need to answer. Even through your mask, Hill could somehow sense the blank expression on your face. By contrast, the look on her face was one of clear resignation, and slight disappointment.

“Right. I’ll see what I can do.” she said, before picking up her briefcase and making her way towards the door. “If I find anything, I’ll page you.”

You watched her go, remaining seated with the faint hope that a white monkey would come out with another latte, like last time. After several minutes, when it was becoming increasingly clear that such an event wasn’t going to repeat itself today, your expression underneath the mask became an exact mirror of your government accomplice.

—------

When you got home, you were delighted to have caught Cindy in between her tutoring session and the combat training she had scheduled with Matt. She was currently absorbed in some Youtube video on her phone that was helping to alleviate some of the physical and mental fatigue that her regular routine inflicted upon her.

If your brother’s words were anything to go by, Cindy was making good progress in her studies. He was confident that she’d be ready for Brooklyn Visions’ entrance exam in another few weeks or so. But just to be safe, he intended to make the mute moon warrior as over prepared as he reasonably could.

The two of you exchanged a few quick signs and friendly gestures before you decided to leave her to relax. Further inside the warehouse, you spotted Prowler and Flint sitting down at the workshop table. It sounded like they were discussing possible plans for the break-in.

Well, it was more like Flint was talking, and Prowler was giving half-hearted responses as he worked on the formula for the experimental energy source.

You cast a wary glance in Cindy’s direction, grateful that she had been wearing headphones this whole time. You would appreciate it if none of your crew let anything about your next job slip to the superhero in training.

And you told them as much when you strode into the room with a finger raised to your lips.

“Keep it down, guys! Cindy’s mute, not deaf!”

Flint made a placating gesture with his hands and nodded. “We were just trying to figure out where we’d get all the sand that the Rabbit lady wanted for the job.”

(Cont.)
>>
What will you say?

>”From a beach. Duh.”
>”I’m sure we can find a company that exports sand and intercept their shipments. Might take a while to pin down the right moment, though.”
>”Let’s try to convince Lorina to import some into the city. She’s got enough money for it, but she doesn't seem interested in flaunting it in any meaningful way.”
>Write-in.
>>
>>5412966
>”I’m sure we can find a company that exports sand and intercept their shipments. Might take a while to pin down the right moment, though.”
Some real GTA type shit. Besides, turning a beach into a crime scene is only gonna make us public enemies in the immediate area. Better we steal what nobody will miss.
>>
>>5412966
>>”From a beach. Duh.”
>>
>>5412966
>>”I’m sure we can find a company that exports sand and intercept their shipments. Might take a while to pin down the right moment, though.”
Do we hit the time skip after this job?
>>
>>5413011
If there's nothing else that you guys wanna do before then, yeah.
>>
>>5412966
>"Problem's not where to get it but how to transport it unnoticed. I think getting one or two trucks that can transport a lot of sand would be a good investment."
>”I’m sure we can find a company that exports sand and intercept their shipments. Might take a while to pin down the right moment, though.”
>"Then we can just keep them in our motorpool, with the wheel thing."
>>
>>5413012
Is cindy's entrance exam before or after the heist?
>>
>>5412966
>”I’m sure we can find a company that exports sand and intercept their shipments. Might take a while to pin down the right moment, though.”
Wouldn’t Flint be a perfect contract worker for them? He can load, unload, and spread sand naturally, so he could try to land a job with one of those companies and get their delivery schedules. Maybe charge a premium in the meantime before he has to bail for the real job.
>>
>>5413023
+1
>>
>>5412966
From a beach, duh
>>
>>5413012
I wanna go on that prison break. I also want to learn more sign language during the time skip
>>
>>5413078
I want us to get closer to our daughter wife
>>
>>5412966
>”From a beach. Duh.”
>It's where he got the first batch
>>
File: weak_ass_bait.png (175 KB, 437x341)
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>>5413116
>>
>>5412976
>>5413011
>>5413036
>>5413023
>>5413041
>"Problem's not where to get it but how to transport it unnoticed. I think getting one or two trucks that can transport a lot of sand would be a good investment."
>”I’m sure we can find a company that exports sand and intercept their shipments. Might take a while to pin down the right moment, though.”
>"Then we can just keep them in our motorpool, with the wheel thing."

Taking these. Writing...

>>5413025
After. They'll most likely be after the time skip.

>>5413078
You should still be able to go on the heist if the majority vote allows it.
>>
“Problem’s not where to get it, but how to transport it unnoticed.” you said. “I think getting one or two trucks that can transport a lot of sand all at once would be a good investment. We would just need to find a company that exports it and intercept their shipments. Might take a while to pin down the right moment, though.”

“That’s what Cat and Rabbit are talking about right now.” Flint informed you. “As soon as they find a good target, they’ll get Prowler here to steal their info while they aren’t looking.”

“Shouldn’t be too hard mapping out their route once I get into their system.” Prowler said without looking up. “By then, it’s just a matter of stopping the trucks and making sure that we’ve got enough room to fit this guy in the back.”

Flint frowned at the clawed thumb that Prowler was pointing towards him. Prowler rolled his eyes.

“You’ll be absorbing whatever they’re carrying in those trucks, and there’s a good chance that we’ll need more than one if they’ve got a big load.” Prowler offered.

“And we’d have to get it all at once, or else we risk being found out on the next job.” Flint concluded. Both you and Prowler nodded.

“I can always just fly off with most of the sand and drop it off somewhere.” Flint added.

“That draws attention. Not a lot of people are gonna be able to ignore a giant dust cloud floating through the city.” you said.

Then it looks like you’ll have to pay for this part of the mission out of your own pocket. Or maybe…you could try and get White Rabbit to cover it. She is rich, and this is her operation.

Then again, you do have another option that you have yet to exploit. The Morlock tunnels should be pretty clear for the most part. If you could get Flint to absorb the sand and push it into the sewers, then you could use the tunnels to transport it to Lorina’s mansion, where you’ll store it until it's time to pull off the heist.

What will you do?

>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.
>Split the cost evenly between the members of your team.
>Try to convince White Rabbit to pay for it.
>Avoid paying for the trucks entirely by having Flint transport the sand through the Morlock Tunnels.
>Build or buy something as prep for phase 1 of the plan.(Write-in.)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5413301
>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.
If we really want to do this ourselves, honestly it wouldn't cost us more than 20k to smuggle all that sand close to the heist site, maybe even less.
What we could do is wrangle up a bunch fo homeless people and pay them to start shoveling sand into some trucks we'll rent for a few days. If they manage to fill the trucks to our satisfaction, they get payed. Per truck.
They will also be provided rented motel rooms and some Food Max food stuffs too to sweeten the deal.
>>
>>5413301
>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.
>>
>>5413301
>>Avoid paying for the trucks entirely by having Flint transport the sand through the Morlock Tunnels.
We've yet to reap the benefits of our relation with the Morlocks, surely they won't mind a bit of sand
>>
>>5413301
>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.
Don't want any wet sand
>>
>>5413301
>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.
It's not like we couldn't use a few trucks in the future anyways.
>>
>>5413301
>>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.
>>
>>5413301

>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.
>>
>>5413329
+1, I like this idea
>>
>>5413301
>>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.

>>5413329
not really a need to pay people as flint can instantly move a large quantity of sand from one place to another

Morlock Tunnels make for a good final means of transportation, so he doesn't have to go all the way through the moist environment.

Plus I think it's handy to have a lot of sand quickly on hand in general
>>
>>5413329
>>5413357
>>5413397
>>5413491
>>5413494
>>5413630
>>5413907
>>5414009
>>Shoulder the cost, but send Lorina the invoice.

Had a really busy day. Taking these, writing...
>>
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Going by what you know from some of your smaller jobs, it roughly costs about 40k to buy a used dump truck. And you’ll probably need about two of them to carry all the sand. That’ll amount to somewhere around 80k, which you can easily cover yourself…but you’ll still need to send an invoice to Lorina after the job’s done.

You wouldn’t have needed to improvise like this if it hadn’t been for that whole bee fiasco. You still can’t believe that she thought it was a good idea to let that psycho loose in your city.

All things considered, though, it was her slip-up that led to you cutting that deal with Hill, so it wasn’t all bad.

>$80,000 have been removed from your savings

—---------------

Over the next few days, you and your fellow Desperados were hard at work, prepping for the heist. Prowler was sifting through the database of the company that was supposed to be delivering a large deposit of sand to a local beach in order to fight natural erosion. Black Cat was coordinating with White Rabbit and going over the bank’s blueprints, while you and Flint were going on nightly recon missions to get an idea of the bank’s inner workings and the rotations of their hired security.

All this thorough prep work might’ve seemed a little boring to an eager rookie, but it gave you a sort of strange sort of comfort knowing that you weren’t the only one taking this seriously. Even if the first phase of the heist sounded mind-numbingly easy to pull off, you didn’t want to risk getting found out by a potential passing hero.

And that was why you were the one keeping a lookout when the night of the sand-jacking came around. Your spider sense was a useful tool for when it came to predicting trouble, after all. Your team wanted you at their back because they trusted you to handle your part of the plan.

You watched your teammates work in awe, feeling like a spectator in a movie theater. Two dump trucks were driving alongside the highway, evenly spaced with only a few smaller cars between them. You sucked your teeth in frustration, but this wasn’t exactly outside of your planning capacity. You’d prepared for this.

The other cars were almost certainly civilians, and as such, were casualties waiting to happen. It would be up to you and White Rabbit to make sure that it wouldn’t come to that. Road accidents made the news, and you weren’t trying to end up on the Bugle’s front page for anything other than the usual speculation and bashing.

As it turns out, leaving a ton of undetonated web bombs out on the middle of the street didn’t make you very popular with the early morning commuters. Let’s just say that things got real sticky, and traffic came to a grinding halt for a few hours.

“We’re moving in.” said Cat, her voice cracking over your secure channel.

(Cont.)
>>
Your attention was suddenly drawn to a third dump truck that was quickly gaining on the target in the back. There were a few cars in between them, but you could already see the solution to that little problem climbing out of the back.

White Rabbit strawberry blonde hair was whipping wildly in the wind, slightly masking what you were sure was a fiendish grin. Without hesitation, she slung her pink umbrella over her shoulder and threw herself over the edge of the truck. And even though you knew what was about to happen, you couldn’t help but hold your breath.

Lorina’s body never slowed, and it never hit the ground. To the collective surprise, relief and possible horror of the other drivers on the road, White Rabbit was flying. Pressurized jets of flame were shooting out the bottom of her thigh high white boots, propelling her through the air with impressive speed. They were currently angled behind her and slightly downward, allowing her to both rise over and surpass the dump truck.

She must have practiced with these quite a bit, because she was somehow able to smoothly land on the hood of the moving vehicle that was directly behind the lead truck. Without delay, she whipped out her umbrella and held it as if it were a dangerous weapon pointed right at the driver.

You couldn’t help but laugh as you leapt from your vantage point to chase after your team. There wasn’t a lot for you to swing from in this environment, so you made do with nearby trees and road signs. Nevertheless, you ke[t your eyes trained on White Rabbit as she communicated threats through pantomime and overblown gestures.

The other drivers seemed to get the hint, because they were already moving onto the shoulder and out of the way of Cat’s truck. Seemingly satisfied with their cooperation, she leapt from the roof of the car and activated her rocket boots once more, allowing her to catch up with the rear vehicle. As she got closer, you could see Flint’s dull, colorless form rising up out of the back.

Despite the obvious setbacks that would come with spreading sand particles out into the wind, Flint didn’t seem to have much trouble pushing said sand into the large pile sitting in the back of the truck directly in front of them. For a moment, it just looked like he was pouring his body into the larger pile. But after a few seconds, you were pleasantly surprised to see the large sand construct pulling the raw granules back into his own body. It was like watching an hourglass pour sideways!

The other driver didn’t seem to realize what was going on, as he wasn’t making any effort to create distance between himself and the sand thief.

“The first truck’s been cleaned out.” Felicia reported.

“Got it. Deploying chute.” the Prowler barked out.

(Cont.)
>>
And not a second later, you saw the Prowler pop out his latest invention. A silver, curving reflective material extended from the back of his truck. At first, it looked a little like the foil that one would put inside of an umbrella, or over the windshield of a car to bounce solar rays off of its surface. That was what it looked like from your perspective.

From everyone else’s perspective, it probably looked like the truck in front of them had disappeared from the face of the earth. This was caused by a trick of the light, combined with a carefully crafted angle of observation and a little trick that he picked up from Sam. And the result was a cloaking material that only really worked from a very specific angle, and could make it seem as if the person behind it was entirely invisible. Or in this case, an entire truck.

Even from here, you could tell that the other drivers were clearly baffled by this sudden and shocking development. And they were even more surprised when the truck suddenly reappeared directly in front of them, their horn blaring!

Seeing as this was your signal to move in, you swooped down in a perfect arc to land directly between Prowler’s vehicle and the one that he’d very nearly smashed into.

The impact had clearly dented the hood, but your arms and legs took the rest of the damage without much trouble at all. You turned to give the driver a reassuring nod, which was immediately met with a scream as he and the other drivers behind him wasted no time in swerving out of the way, probably hoping to avoid any other unforeseen incidents.

Smart…and expected.

With those cars out of the way, Prowler’s truck was now directly in front of the second truck. This driver, however, seemed far more cautious than the other one. He was eyeing him suspiciously and reaching for his radio. But all he found was a mess of webbing blocking him from reaching the thing in any meaningful amount of time. By the time his head whipped around to gape at you, you were already webbing the wheel to prevent him from swerving.

He glanced back at his fellow driver, only to see another dump truck driving alongside the poor sap, a loaded umbrella sticking out the window and pointing right at his face.

The driver beside you opened his mouth to say something, but you didn’t give him the pleasure of getting a word in. You weren’t in the mood for begging, pleading, or having to deal with a hostage calling for help. His mouth was webbed shut before he even knew it.

By now, Flint was riding beside the second truck, moving its contents into Prowler’s truck without much effort on his part. To your great relief, it didn’t take very long at all, and both trucks were already peeling out before any cops or capes could arrive to crash the scene.

Felicia and Lorina were cheering openly over the comms, and you were in the back of their truck, giving your best buddy an incredibly dusty high five. Even Prowler seemed to be in good spirits.

(Cont.)
>>
What will you say/do?

>”Is it too early to celebrate? We should go get drinks at Rabbit's place, later.”
>”Okay, that has got to be the coolest way that anyone’s ever stolen a metric fuckton of sand!”
>”Sam’s gonna be so psyched that the cloaking chute worked! Maybe not so much for what we used it for, but he’ll understand.”
>"I'd like to see a Nazi bee pull that shit off!"
>"Great job, guys. You crushed it out there!"
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5414836
>>”Is it too early to celebrate? We should go get drinks at Rabbit's place, later.”
>>
>>5414836
>"Great job, guys. You crushed it out there!"
We’ve been part of a lot of shitshows recently, haven’t we? Even if something were to immediately go wrong, this will still be the smoothest I can remember us ever being.
>>
>>5414836
>”Sam’s gonna be so psyched that the cloaking chute worked! Maybe not so much for what we used it for, but he’ll understand.”
>"Great job, guys. You crushed it out there!"
>>
>>5414895
Oh there it is.
Better delete my repeat post I guess.
>>
>>5414836
>>"Great job, guys. You crushed it out there!"
>>
>>5414836
>”Okay, that has got to be the coolest way that anyone’s ever stolen a metric fuckton of sand!”
>”Sam’s gonna be so psyched that the cloaking chute worked! Maybe not so much for what we used it for, but he’ll understand.”
>"Great job, guys. You crushed it out there!"
>>
>>5414894
>>5414895
>>5414895
>>5414954
>>5414995
>"Great job, guys. You crushed it out there!"

Taking these. Writing...

>>5414894
The team's just as surprised as you are. They made backup plans just in case someone else decided to crash the party for some reason or another.
>>
“Great job, guys. You crushed it out there!” you shouted in comms.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited to steal something as virtually worthless as a big pile of sand.” Felicia laughed.

“Hey!” Flint said, a wounded look on his face. “I’m standing right here.”


“Oh, honey~. I said ‘virtually’, not ‘completely’.” she said in reply.

Flint looked like he wanted to argue a point, but Lorina quickly cut him off.

“That was so clean! We got the job done much faster than I thought we would!” she said, examining her pocket watch with a satisfied look on her face. “Now if we had our costumes, then this would’ve been absolutely perfect~.”

The Prowler audibly groaned. “I was hoping that you would have forgotten about that already.” he admitted.

“How could I forget? It’s literally one of the most important parts of this job.” White Rabbit argued. “I’m so close to convincing Sandy to shapeshift into a giant ‘Alice’!”

“No, you’re not.” Flint denied flatly.

You weren’t able to acquire enough colored sand to make Lorina’s designs pop, and even if you could, Flint wasn’t confident enough in his ability to rearrange his particles into specific patterns. What he was capable of, however, was changing his shape into anything that didn’t openly defy the laws of gravity. And so, Lorina didn’t miss her opportunity to ask him to shapeshift into a giant ‘Alice’. In fact, she took this opportunity almost every single day, quickly earning her a spot on Flint’s shitlist.

It was annoying, for sure, but you felt like it would be a simple thing for him to pull off. At this point, you felt like he was only refusing to piss her off.

As the two argued back and forth over comms, you were tempted to bury your head in the sand just to get some peace and quiet.

—-------

After dropping off your haul at the designated drop-point that White Rabbit had arranged earlier, you and the others made your way to her mansion for what you knew would be the unveiling of the costumes that she’s been hyping up. Lorina wasn’t terribly bothered by your offer to trade with Prowler, but the big grump kept trying to avoid putting on the hat that would complete the ensemble.

You and Cat were probably the only ones that appreciated Rabbit’s enthusiasm on the matter. There was nothing more exciting than receiving a fresh new costume for a new job. For some reason, you kept damaging them or destroying them entirely. You’d have to go get those fixed at some point.

Reaching into one of your belt’s pouches, you pulled out a folded paper that showed the final design of the “Decked Out” suit.

(Cont.)
>>
What changes did you make to it?

>None. You liked White Rabbit’s design choices.
>You shortened the card cape to a half cape that reached down to your elbows.
>You removed the card cape entirely. Capes only got in your way.
>You actually made the cape longer, reaching down to your ankles.
>You changed up the color scheme a bit.(Write-in.)
>You finally managed to convince White Rabbit to remove the “suits” that covered the fabric.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5415584
>You shortened the card cape to a half cape that reached down to your elbows.
A compromise between form and function.
>>
>>5415587
+1
>>
>>5415584
>You shortened the card cape to a half cape that reached down to your elbows.
Less trouble maneuvering and still keeps the cape to not displease the client.
>>
>>5415584
>You shortened the card cape to a half cape that reached down to your elbows.
>>
>>5415584
>>You shortened the card cape to a half cape that reached down to your elbows.
>>
>>5415584
>None. You liked White Rabbit’s design choices.

I was one of the dudes in like thread 3 that was like oh darn I need to catch up then got busy and never did.

Welp I finally did and can finally vote on shit and I gotta say Score, I'd read the shit out of this if it was a actual marvel comic
>>
>None. You liked White Rabbit’s design choices.
>>
Sorry seems like I double posted since I didn't see the first one. And it won't let me delete it. Will try again later but ignore my second one please
>>
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>>5415584
>>You removed the card cape entirely. Capes only got in your way.
>>
>>5416276
I feel your pain anon, same thing happened to me here.
>>5414945
Must be 4chan being weird again
>>
>>5415587
+1
>>
>>5415587
>>5415669
>>5415670
>>5415957
>>5415981
>>5416265
>>5416278
>>5416295
>You shortened the card cape to a half cape that reached down to your elbows.

Taking these. Writing...

>>5416276
>>5416291
All good, friends. I've noticed that this website freaks the fuck out sometimes.

>>5416265
Glad to have you with us, anon! I hope the thread getting deleted didn't make it hard for you to catch up. It fucked my formatting up, but not enough to make it unreadable.

And I appreciate the praise. If I could draw, then I would definitely try to make a comic of my own. Most Spider-Man fans feel alienated from the new stories because Marvel editorial seems to think that Peter is only interesting when he's getting the shit kicked out of him. It's becoming rare to see a Spider-Man comic that isn't filled with intense amounts of self-loathing and constant relationship drama.
>>
>>5416563
Oh yeah for sure current Spiderman runs is just Pete suffering and it's awful.

As for the thread deletion was confusing a bit since it went from Neverland to talking to doctor strange and I was like "the fuck" until I found the deleted thread archive. And it was readable no worries
>>
Since Lorina seemed dead set on having you wear the cape, you managed to convince her to shorten it to a half cape that only reached down to around your elbows. It was lighter and more fluttery than what you were used to, but it shouldn’t impede your movement in any meaningful way.

Upon arriving at the mansion, you were all escorted to separate rooms where you would change into your new costumes. The heist wasn’t taking place for at least another two or three days, so White Rabbit wanted to know if she had to correct anything beforehand.

Unsurprisingly, the new suit fit like a glove. The material was far lighter and more gentle on the skin than your usual costume. This one didn’t have any armor plating, but there was protective padding built in just in case. It wouldn’t stop any bullets, but it would slow them down enough to prevent them from going too deep.

For a few minutes, you just ran your hands along the fabric of the cape and the soft material covering your arms. You’ve never worn anything this soft in your entire life!

When you turned to look into the mirror, you saw your usual curved lenses staring back at you. But only this time, you saw a black diamond shape running underneath the lens of the left eye, and a dark gray spade placed underneath the other. Similar shapes could be found in various other places. Hearts on your shoulder, a Jack on your back and an Ace on the underside of your half cape.

Feeling satisfied with your appearance, you exited the changing room and allowed the bunny butler to escort you to the planning room. And sure enough, the others were already in the room waiting for you.

As expected, Prowler was the one who ended up becoming the gothic version of the Mad Hatter. He wore a black and white tuxedo, with a slashing pattern running along across the suit jacket in place of the spider design. What you didn’t expect was for him to actually wear the top hat like Lorina asked him to.

Similar to the rest of the ensemble, it was black with a whit band running along the base, where two playing cards were carefully tucked away. You had a feeling that the only reason they had gotten him to wear it was because it was mostly black. And when it came to fashion, Prowler was of a very predictable sort.

Black Cat, who was currently snickering at him from behind his back, was wearing the version of her catsuit that was mostly gray, with splashes of turquoise running through it. She had thought that the purple and magenta suit was a bit too garish, and the tabby cat version a bit too plain. Ultimately, she went for the darker suit, knowing that it would at least have some stealth applications if she ever decided to wear it after this job. After all, you were welcome to keep your suits once the job was done.

(Cont.)
>>
>>5416563
Imagine a Spider-Man ongoing where he's actually in a stable point in his life and transitions to his mentor role properly.
A man can dream...
>>
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Lastly, your eyes settled on Flint, who wasn’t wearing a costume at all. He was incapable of doing so, and everyone knew it. But that didn’t stop Lorina from shooting annoyed looks in his direction every now and again.

Eventually, Flint groaned and rolled his eyes so hard that you thought they would go into the back of his head. Without warning, Flint’s shape suddenly shifted. He became significantly slimmer, and impossibly slender for a man his size. An excess of sand dropped to his feet, and he shrunk in height as well as weight. Everyone at the table gaped at him, and White Rabbit covered her mouth in shock.

Flint Marko, your best buddy, was now a colorless sculpture of a young, pre-teen Alice Liddell!

“There! Are ya happy now!?” Flint bellowed, his voice just as gravelly as it normally was.

Lorina looked like she just might cry, jump for joy, or something equally as overblown and unnecessary. She was clapping her hands together and excitedly bouncing on her toes like a kid at Christmas.

“OMIGOSH OMIGOSH OMIGOSH! I knew you could do it!” she happily exclaimed. “I knew it, I knew it!”

Flint just shook his head in defeat and let out a long, suffering sigh. “Let’s just get this over with…”

White Rabbit pulled out her pocket watch and nodded. “Right. Here are the plans that me and Cat drew up.” she said, snapping her gloved fingers to summon her servants.

Two bunny butlers hurried into the room and rolled several sheets of paper onto the table. One was a map of the city, another was a blueprint detailing the bank’s layout, and a list of security cameras that you and Flint noticed on your nightly escapades.

“Alright gang, it all comes down to this!” Lorina began. “With everything we know, we can approach this in several different ways. Sandy here has at least three potential roles. He can either burst through the front door and prevent anyone from leaving while Pow Pow jams their communications,” she said, earning her a glare from Prowler. “Or, he can slip into the HVAC vents and pull the money out over a long period of time. It’d be slower, but the chances of us getting caught would be a bit more slim.”

“Prowler’s job is to disable their security, right?” you asked.

White Rabbit and Black Cat nodded. “That’s where he’ll be the most useful.” Lorina said. “Cat’s our premiere safecracker, and probably the only one among us willing to go undercover in case we want to take a stealthier approach.”

You honestly couldn’t imagine Cat being incapable of drawing the eye of every man or woman in the room, but you didn’t doubt that she could handle herself decently well in such a situation.

“And what about me?” you said.

(Cont.
>>
Lorina gave you a devious grin. “You’ve probably got the most flexibility out of any of us. You’re strong, so can be our backup safecracker. And if you don’t want to do that, then we could have you sneak around and plant Prowler’s devices all throughout the bank.” she said, listing things off on her fingers. “And we already know that you’d make a good lookout. So honestly, the choice is yours.”

How do you think the team should operate?

(Let me know if you are confused about the purpose of a role.)

>Huntsman(Lookout/Safecracker/Infiltrator/Muscle/Hostage Management)
>Sandman(Safecracker/Looter/Muscle/Hostage Management)
>Black Cat(Safecracker/Infiltrator/Muscle)
>Prowler(Infiltrator/Hacker/Lookout)
>White Rabbit(Hostage Management/Muscle/Distraction)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
https://youtu.be/h0JvF9vpqx8
>>
>>5416658
>Huntsman(Infiltrator)
>Sandman(Looter)
>Black Cat(Safecracker)
>Prowler(Lookout)
>White Rabbit(Hostage Management)
>>
>>5416663
Wouldn't molecules of sand be better as a safe breaker? Sorta like using water to blow a safe.
>>
>>5416658
>Huntsman (Infiltrator)
>Sandman (Muscle)
>Black Cat (Safecracker)
>Prowler (Hacker)
>White Rabbit (Distraction)
>>5416664
Felicia can crack it like the pro she is. Benny can also just rip the door off or snatch the safe itself.
>>
>>5416663
I meant to vote for Prowler to be a hacker.
>>
>>5415582
>"Decked Out" suit
SPIDER SOLITAIRE SUIT WHEN NIGGA
>>
>>5416649
>Hearts on your shoulder
And not on our sleeves?
>>
>>5416663
+1
>>
>>5416671
+1
>>
>>5416663
>>5416671
>>5416687
>>5416776
>>5416835
>Huntsman(Infiltrator)
>Black Cat(Safecracker)
>Prowler (Hacker)

So far, these are the votes that have the most support.

The only roles we have left to decide are:

>Sandman(Looter/Muscle/Hostage Management)
>White Rabbit (Hostage Management/Muscle/Distraction)

For Sandman, we have:
1 vote for Looter, and another for Muscle

For White Rabbit, we have:
1 vote for Hostage Management, and another for Distraction

Let me know if any of you plan on changing your votes, or if you want to wait for more to come in. If anyone's confused as to the purpose of a role, feel free to ask.

>>5416771
Damn. That's so clever that I have no choice but to make it canon and incorporate it into the suit's design. I have been bested this day.

>>5416659
White Rabbit's next goal is to have Prowler host a tea party after the heist is done. After her success with Flint, she's confident that she can somehow pressure him into it.
>>
>>5417336
I’ll break the tie by backing
>White Rabbit(Hostage Management)
>Sandman(Looter)
>>
>>5417336
>>5417378
>Huntsman(Infiltrator)
>Black Cat(Safecracker)
>Prowler (Hacker)
>White Rabbit(Hostage Management)
>Sandman(Looter)

Much appreciated. Writing...
>>
After considering your options for a few minutes, you ultimately decided that your talents would be better served creeping around the bank and installing the Prowler’s hacking devices for him. Also, you’d be the first to know if any of the hostages or security guards got any funny ideas. In that case, it would be up to White Rabbit to make sure that none of them stepped out of line.

And while Cat takes her sweet time cracking that safe open, Flint would coordinate with Prowler and Lorina’s men to sweep out as much cash as he could through the HVAC vents. That way, you’d have less trips back and forth.

With all that decided, you went over the blueprints a few more times, rehearsed your plans and made absolutely certain that everyone understood their roles. It helped to reassure you, more than anything. You weren’t ashamed to admit that you were feeling nervous about this upcoming gig. You’ve never even considered grand larceny as an option for someone like you. Not until you got your powers, at least.

A single wrong move here could spell doom for you and the Desperados. This city was woefully overpopulated with superheroes of all kinds and caliber, and it was tough for an up and coming crook to make a living for himself in a place like this.

You all knew the risks involved. But for some reason, the anxiety you felt wasn’t inspired by any sort of fear. In fact, you were starting to feel a little bit giddy.

—-------

7:00 A.M.

The following day, you and the rest of your team woke up bright and early to grab the dump trucks full of sand, while Lorina’s people drove straight to the bank to prepare for the job.

It was then that Lorina sprung a little surprise on you. Without telling you, she had bought another vehicle. One that just might make your job a lot easier if you played your cards right.

—--------

11:00 A.M.

An hour before noon, an unscheduled armored vehicle arrived at Sterling National Bank, baffling everyone on duty that day. Cautiously, they asked the driver for the proper paperwork listing the shipment, and any identification that she might be carrying on her person.

The driver gave them an easygoing smile that bordered on sultry. She was seduction personified, with a bust that threatened to pop the buttons of her black shirt and stunning white hair tied back into a ponytail. Her eyes were obscured by dark lenses, but the security guards could swear that they noticed a glint of mischief in the brief glimpse that they got of them.

Despite her unusual features, everything seemed to be in order. The shipment had just popped up in the system, and the men on duty made frequent and audible complaints about the state of their database and the sloppy attitude of the Federal Reserve. The pretty driver joined in on their banter as well. And the men were so caught up in their conversation, that they weren’t at all prepared for the tidal wave of sand that greeted them upon sliding open the truck’s back door.

(Cont.)
>>
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Everyone within a 10 foot radius was either knocked off their feet or thrown back as the sand blasted outwards to slam into anyone caught unaware. Those that were further away didn’t fare much better, as they quickly found themselves ensnared in some sort of…sticky trap.

Unable to reach their guns, the few that had remained conscious attempted to scream, or at least report the incident via radio. However, with their mouths, hands and legs firmly trapped in place, they discovered that such a task was proving to be near impossible. And for those that hadn’t been subdued yet, they were disheartened to find out that their radio transmissions were being jammed.

And as if that weren’t bad enough, there were armed men filing out of the armored truck, somehow untouched by the torrent of sand that had been packed inside! They wore black and red suits, and bunny masks to hide their identities.

Right before the rabbit robbers dragged the subdued guards further inside the bank, they caught a glimpse of a humanoid figure crawling into the upper levels of the bank from a nearby window.

—------

11:10 A.M.

At precisely 11:10 A.M, the security cameras at Sterling National captured a rather unusual sight before going dark.

A blonde woman wearing a blue suit, bunny ears and a white corset strutted through the front doors, carrying nothing but a frilly umbrella and a steel folding chair. Without a word, she walked into the middle of the room, unfolded her chair, and sat down patiently. This, of course, attracted many stares from the surrounding customers and tellers.

At some point, one of the tellers worked up the courage to call her over. The woman waved her off with a cheery smile. Feeling put off, the teller got up, closed her line and approached the woman to get a better idea of what she wanted.

Once more, the woman waved her off, and then proceeded to roll up her sleeve to check her watch. Her…many watches.

The teller gawked at the sheer amount of timepieces lining the strange woman’s arm. All of them were ticking down at different times, like one would see at a train station. Mechanically, the strange woman turned off several alarms, before rolling her sleeve back up and patiently placing her umbrella back in her lap.

By now, the security guards were forced to get involved, as the woman was refusing to cooperate with anyone at all. But as they drew closer, several of the woman’s alarms went off all at once, prompting the guards to reach for their weapons in alarm.

Slowly and deliberately, the strange woman rolled her sleeves back up, and deactivated her alarms all at once. When she was done, she looked up at everyone around her, and smiled.

(Cont.)
>>
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The teller opened her mouth to speak, but she was quickly distracted by a sudden outburst of noise coming from outside. The situation was so tense that it drew everyone’s attention almost immediately. And it was because of this that no one noticed the strange woman, still seated, opening up her umbrella, and raising it over her head.

Mere moments later, the sprinkler system kicked on, and the camera was unable to see anything at all.

—-------

11:15 A.M.

As you crawled along the side of the building, you caught glimpses of Cat in her disguise as she strode past Lorina’s goons. She had a sizable, black bag slung over her shoulder, and you assumed that it had to contain her safe-cracking gear.

These past few minutes, you’ve been doing nothing but crawling in and out of vents, windows and other access points to plant Prowler’s devices around the building. The security offices were the hardest to get into, as they required you to distract, or disable the guards beforehand.

So far, the heist was going pretty smoothly. You hadn’t managed to steal a dime yet, but you were certain that Flint and Cat had to be making their way down to the vault by now.

According to the silent alarm going off on your arm, Prowler had already set off the sprinklers, delivering White Rabbit’s hallucinogenic serum to everyone within the main floor. You didn’t know how it worked exactly, but it sounded like scary stuff. So long as they were under its effects, the hostages wouldn’t be any good to anybody.

The only thing that you were worried about was the definite possibility that someone witnessed your little stunt with the armored vehicle and ran to get help. They wouldn’t be able to make any calls so long as they were within the range of Prowler’s jammer, but its range wasn’t infinite, and they could always just shout for help.

In the worst case scenario, you could always have the rest of Flint’s sand supply dropped off in front of the bank, where he would reform into a giant British girl and tear the vault door out from its hinges.

And it looked like you just might have to do that. All around you, the other employees were beginning to realize that something was very wrong. All at once, their phone signals had dropped, and they were unable to get in contact with their colleagues on the lower levels.

A frenzied panic was starting to set in, as they rushed to get to the stairs and private elevators.

How will you handle this?

>Ignore them and keep planting devices. Rabbit and her men can handle a few more civilians.
>Block the doors with webs and bind them together with a few carefully tossed web bombs.
>Have Flint take a break from looting the safe so he can deal with these guys.
>Pretend that you're a passing hero that's come to rescue them. That should at least get them to shut up for a minute or two.
>Write-in.
>>
>>5417764
>>Block the doors with webs and bind them together with a few carefully tossed web bombs.
>>
>>5417764
>Block the doors with webs and bind them together with a few carefully tossed web bombs.
>>
>>5417764
Do we have access to a PA system, or can we shout loud enough to cover everyone? If so,
>Announce to everyone that they’ll be much safer if they stay inside. There’s a hostage situation going on right now.
Hostage situations 101 for banks - use the silent alarms and follow directions from the captors. They aren’t supposed to be the heroes and die, that’s for others.
>>
>>5417887
I'd say that you have access to the PA system, yes.
>>
>>5417887
Support
>>
>>5417764
>Block the doors with webs and bind them together with a few carefully tossed web bombs.
we shouldn't use the PA yet we still have the element of surprise.
>>
>>5417764
>Block the doors with webs and bind them together with a few carefully tossed web bombs.
>>
>>5417768
>>5417818
>>5418211
>>5418350
>Block the doors with webs and bind them together with a few carefully tossed web bombs.

Taking these. Writing...
>>
You were already moving before they had gotten halfway across the room. Using the knowledge you’d acquired from your recon missions, you quickly located any and all exits on this floor and began barricading them with your webs.

The fleeing employees came to a grinding halt upon seeing their escape routes cut off, and you saw them glancing around the room to get a look at their aggressor. From the chatter you were picking up, you figured out that they had assumed the building had caught fire. Somehow, they were being notified of the little sprinkler malfunction that your team caused a few minutes ago, and were now panicking because they thought they were being trapped inside.

You felt a bit bad for them, but that didn’t stop you from tossing a couple of web bombs at their feet when they weren’t looking. Having them crowd around each other for safety made it all the more easier. There were, of course, a few stragglers that were trying to hide from you, but they weren’t very successful. Those guys either got glued to their desks or strung up by their ankles.

You tried to avoid being seen for the most part, but your webs were a dead giveaway. Even if they ended up dissolving, rumors would spread, and you’d find yourself on the front page of another slanderous newspaper article. Although, you probably deserved whatever they were going to say about you this time.

—----

With that crisis averted, you were more or less free to plant the rest of Prowler's devices without having to worry about getting caught. Maybe now you could actually communicate with the rest of your team without having to worry about jamming your own signal.

“How’s it looking out there, Prowler?” you asked, perched atop a railing and gazing down at the floor below.

“Good so far. I can see everything that’s going on inside.” he quickly replied. “That includes your new friends down there.”

You spared a glance for the civilians that were currently struggling in your web. “They got spooked by the fire alarm. Had to do something before they stormed the main floor.” you said. “Who knows what Rabbit’s men would’ve done if they had run into them.”

“Well, she’s handling herself decently well.” Prowler begrudgingly admitted. “Actually, she’s more or less just messing with them, but none of them are lucid enough to make a distress call or put up a fight.”

“Yikes. Remind me not to let any of that stuff get on my suit.” you said, a shiver running down your spine. “How’re things on Cat and Flint’s end?”

“Cat’s working on the safe now. It should be open in another few minutes.” he reported.

“Let’s hope that we can finish within Rabbit’s timeframe. She’ll have a shit-fit if we’re even a minute late.”

“Forget that. She’ll blow a gasket if Flint doesn’t follow her dress code.”

“How’s he doing, by the way?” you asked.

(Cont.)
>>
“It’s slow going, but he’s sending the cash up through the vents, and into the armored car that we drove here. By the time Cat breaks into that vault, he should have that truck at least more than half full.”

“Now that’s what I like to hear!” you cheered.

“Hold up. Something’s wrong…”

“What’s up?”

“Shit! Someone called the cops!” he cursed.

“How’d they manage that!?”

“Dunno. They must’ve seen something suspicious while they were driving by the bank.” Prowler assumed. “The jammer’s range doesn’t cover the whole city.”

“I’d rather have cops on my ass instead of a team of capes.”

“Oh, yeah? I choose neither!” Prowler spat back.

“How long do we have?”

“Roughly three and a half minutes. Maybe more, depending on traffic.” he said.

What will you do?

>”I’ll slow them down. You just keep everything running smoothly while I’m gone.”
>”Pull Flint off of vault duty and have him bulk up on sand. He could cause a major traffic jam in his giant state.”
>”Change of plan. Me and Flint are tearing that vault door off ourselves! We’re running out of time.”
>”Can you scramble their communications, or something? Throw the jammer back up, or move it around the city?”
>”Tell Rabbit that we might need that ‘backup plan’ of hers…”(Deploy the Rab-bots)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5418900
>”I’ll slow them down. You just keep everything running smoothly while I’m gone.”
Everything is still going fine, so no need to panic
>>
>>5418900
Tell Rabbit that we might need that ‘backup plan’ of hers…”(Deploy the Rab-bots)
>>
>>5418900
>”I’ll slow them down. You just keep everything running smoothly while I’m gone.”
We got this. Nothing a little bit of superhuman acrobatics and judicious usage of webbing can't solve.
Let's just hope we can start our exit plan before any capes take notice.
>>
>>5418900
So much for the element of surprise.
>”I’ll slow them down. You just keep everything running smoothly while I’m gone.”
If we still have web bombs, we can easily cause a traffic jam. Just need to be sure our getaway isn’t impacted by it. If it is, we’ll work something else out.
>>
>>5418900
>>”Tell Rabbit that we might need that ‘backup plan’ of hers…”(Deploy the Rab-bots)
>>
>>5418903
>>5418913
>>5418921
>”I’ll slow them down. You just keep everything running smoothly while I’m gone.”

Taking these. Writing...
>>
“I’ll slow them down.” you declared. “You just keep everything running smoothly while I’m gone.”

“Don’t do anything too stupid.”

You gave him a hearty chuckle in reply. “It’s like you don’t even know me.”

—-------

About a minute later, you were swinging through the city, using explosive boosts to propel yourself forward. It didn’t take long to track down the cops, as their sirens were blaring all the way down the street from where they were driving.

There was no doubt about it now. These guys were headed straight for the bank, and it wouldn’t be long before they called in backup. Hopefully not the superpowered kind.

What will you do to slow them down?

>Use up the rest of your web bombs. The loss will be worth it for the money you’re about to get in return.
>Web up their windshields and glue their hands to the steering wheel.
>Blow up their tires with your explosive Mark.
>Taunt them into chasing after you instead. You can be pretty annoying when you want to be.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5419078
>Block their exhausts with web, making their engines stall
>>
>>5419078
Well, I don’t want to use up the last web bombs in case a super comes in.
Can we merge options two and three? Use our web shot to sling the Mark onto the tires from a distance. If not then I’d prefer option 2. If anyone is going to slip by, just pull down a lamp post or something to jam up traffic and slow them down.
>>
>>5419078
>Taunt them into chasing after you instead. You can be pretty annoying when you want to be.
>Web them up, but try to avoid car crashes
>>
>>5419078
Blow up their tires with your explosive Mark.

Can't we shoot our mark of Kaine?
>>
>>5419080
>support
>>
>>5419078
>Use up the rest of your web bombs. The loss will be worth it for the money you’re about to get in return.
Safety first. The other options all have a frankly unacceptable risk of fatalities.
Last thing we need is a dead cop on our hands. Fucking NYPD will NEVER forget that.
>>
>>5419078
>Use up the rest of your web bombs. The loss will be worth it for the money you’re about to get in return.

Guess after this we should have prowler put on a different costume and use webbombs in a public space so we can be seen fighting the pretender that tried to frame us for bankrobbery
>>
>>5419078
>>Blow up their tires with your explosive Mark.
>>
>>5419078
>Use up the rest of your web bombs. The loss will be worth it for the money you’re about to get in return.
We can always make more web bombs, no problem. Dead cops will carry weight
>>
what am i doing in the wrong thead, lol
I knew this would happen sooner or later

hope I can delete before too many people see it
witness and laugh at me
>>
>>5419650
which quest is that? I might bother to read one day
>>
Everyone point and laugh
>>
>>5419652
Isekai'd in inaquedate inclination it seems.
Makes sense he would vote here, the fashion in that quest vote was also the most active one.
>>
>>5419078
>>5419080
>>5419083
Switching to back this.
>>
Sorry for the delay, but I won't be able to post an update today. My day got a lot busier than I expected. I'll count up the votes and have any update ready by tomorrow morning.

>>5419201
It's range is limited if you aren't marking a projectile that you're throwing with your hands.

>>5419650
Don't worry QM-anon, I've had the fear that I'll randomly post a massive update in a thread from an entirely different board for a while now. At the very least, I wasn't awake to see your post.
>>
Welp, we're currently tied between this option:

>>5419080
>>5419214
>>5419849
>Block their exhausts with web, making their engines stall

And this option:

>>5419230
>>5419308
>>5419561
>Use up the rest of your web bombs. The loss will be worth it for the money you’re about to get in return.

I'd say that we could flip a coin for the result, but using up the rest of your web bombs is a big commitment in the middle of a mission. Let me know if you need a question answered, or if you want to switch your votes around. I hate to leave it on a tie after yesterday's delay, but I've still got more than enough time to squeeze out an update or two.
>>
>>5420295
I'll change my vote to support
>Block their exhausts with web, making their engines stall
Since it's similar to what I wanted
>>5419085
>>
>>5419561
>>5420295

Support
>>
>>5420295
>>5420352
>Block their exhausts with web, making their engines stall

Taking these. Writing...
>>
In an act of daring, you swung down closer to the street, and flew right over the flashing lights on the roofs of their cars. In the middle of your swing, however, you flipped over until you were upside down, released your webline and used both arms to take aim at their tailpipes.

Without missing a beat, you fired a series of web projectiles at the back of the police cars, clogging up their tailpipes and creating an airtight seal. Admittedly, it took you more than a couple of passes to get all of them. The cops inside the cars were giving you puzzled and agitated looks, but at least they weren’t shooting at you.

Once the deed was done, you were left wondering whether this trick of yours would actually work. You actually pulled a prank similar to this one back in high school. Even if you were using a potato instead of webbing back then, the principle is still the same.

Suddenly, after a minute had almost passed, you noticed their cars slowing down significantly as their engines sputtered. The cops tried their very best to pull off and park closer to the sidewalk, but seeing as how you were living in New York, there were no parking spaces to be had. This little inconvenience created something of a traffic jam in the middle of the road, where the surrounding citizens were firing complaints at the helpless law enforcers.

“Thank God! I didn’t stash any potatoes in my utility belt, and I thought I’d have to run and grab some real quick.” you explained to a nearby hotdog vendor, who seemed very confused by your presence here.

To your great relief, no one was injured or killed during this little stunt. You were just glad that your brain was more developed when it came to cooking up ways to cause mischief. If only there was a Nobel Prize for that, you could finally show up your brother at the next family dinner.

“Hands in the air!” shouted one of the cops as he exited his vehicle and leveled his pistol at you.

This shock brought you out of your reverie, and forced you to realize that this was the most public attention you’d ever drawn to yourself during the daytime. You generally tended to keep a lower profile.

What will you do?

>Web them to their cars and leave them for someone else to deal with.
>”You can’t park there, sir! There’s a fire hydrant right there! I have half a mind to tow your vehicle right here and now.”
>”Trust me. I’m doing you guys a favor. You’re a little out of your weight class here.”
>"How about I buy you a hotdog and we call it even?"
>Swing away without another word. The less time you spend antagonizing the NYPD, the better.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5420706
>”You can’t park there, sir! There’s a fire hydrant right there! I have half a mind to tow your vehicle right here and now.”
>Web up their guns and radios. That should buy some more time.
>>
>>5420706
>”Trust me. I’m doing you guys a favor.“
>"How about I buy you a hotdog and we call it even?"
Are we carrying cash? No need the gyp the cart owner if we can pay.
>>
>>5420706
>”Trust me. I’m doing you guys a favor. You’re a little out of your weight class here.”
>"How about I buy you a hotdog and we call it even?"
>>
>>5420723
>>5420738
support
>>
>>5420723
>support
>>
>>5420723
+1
>>
>>5420723
>>5420752
>>5420825
>>5420840
>”Trust me. I’m doing you guys a favor.“
>"How about I buy you a hotdog and we call it even?"

Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: peter-parker-hotdog.gif (7.43 MB, 640x358)
7.43 MB
7.43 MB GIF
"Trust me. I'm doing you guys a favor." you said. "How about I buy you a hotdog and we call it even?"

You reached into one of your belt pouches and pulled out a small money clip, before tossing it onto the hotdog vendor’s stand. He flinched as the metal clip smacked onto the cart, as if it were a bomb or something equally as dangerous.

“That should about cover it.” you said, not reacting to the wild looks that he and the cops were giving you.

The vendor nodded reluctantly at first, but then became much more enthusiastic when his brian had finally caught up to recent events. He quickly began preparing the hotdogs, and you nodded approvingly, backing away from him just in case the cops got a little trigger happy. You’re not about to be responsible for any casualties today, directly or indirectly.

Their guns still trained on you, the police barked another order at you to lay down on the ground. They were giving each other bewildered looks, and you privately congratulated yourself for keeping them off balance this entire time.

“Tell me what you guys think of those dogs, later.” you said, giving them a salute. “I’d have one myself, but certain foods don't agree with me when I’m hanging upside down half the time.”

You patted your stomach and gave the hotdog cart another longing look, before firing a webline at a nearby street lamp and pulling yourself into the air.

You could hear the shouts of the people behind and below you. Feel their bullets whizzing past your head, confident that none of them would hit you while you were moving this fast. And after only a few seconds, you were completely out of their range, and headed back towards the bank.

—--------

By the time you made it back, you were delighted to learn that Cat had cracked the safe open, and Flint was now devoting all of his energy to transporting the money out of the vault. You could already see the dump truck that Prowler was using to carry the bulk of Flint’s sand supply.

“Hey Prowler, I’ve taken care of things on my end.” you reported.

“Good. Because we’ve got bigger problems now.” he replied.

You groaned. “What now?”

“A supe is on his way now. Eye-witness reports say that he’s riding a ‘surfboard’ or something.”

A surfboard? Like…that Silver Surfer guy? Why the fuck would he be coming down from Jupiter to stop a bank robbery?

Or maybe it was just Rocket Racer coming to crash your party. If that were the case, you would have to set him straight.

Was there anyone else that rode around on a flying surfboard that you were forgetting about? Didn’t Screwball use one too?

(Cont.)
>>
What will you say?

>”Let’s pull out. We’ve got enough cash already, and we shouldn’t risk a fight that we don’t need to take.”
>”Tell me where they are and I’ll intercept them for you. Keep working on the vault.”
>”Whoever they are, I’m sure we can take them. With this much sand, there’s no way that Flint can lose a straight up fight with a random super.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5420968
>”Tell me where they are and I’ll intercept them for you. Keep working on the vault.”
>>
>>5420968
>Let’s pull out. We’ve got enough cash already, and we shouldn’t risk a fight that we don’t need to take.”


It has to be silver surfer. All I've seen is he is GOD tier.
>>
>>5420983
His IS God tier, which is exactly why he wouldn't be coming down just to break up a fucking bank robbery.
Besides, if it was him, the eye-witness reports would most likely say so explicitly.
He kinda sticks out.
>>
>>5420984
Well I guess we could bring him a hotdog?
>>
>>5420985
Ya know that might just throw him off guard and pique his curiosity enough to where he'd actually accept the offer.
>>
>>5420986
let's do it
>>5420968

>”Tell me where they are and I’ll intercept them for you. Keep working on the vault.” And offer him the super duper special hotdog combo
>>
>>5420968
>>”Tell me where they are and I’ll intercept them for you. Keep working on the vault.”
>>
>>5420968
>>5420988
>+1
Since we just handed over all our cash, it seems like we’ll need to dip into the heist funds.

Don’t worry, we’ll be sure to deduct it from the pot when it comes time to split the haul.

Also, we shouldn’t think Flint is invincible. Heat and water don’t do good things to him.
>>
>>5420968
>”Tell me where they are and I’ll intercept them for you. Keep working on the vault.”
>>
>>5420968
>>”Whoever they are, I’m sure we can take them. With this much sand, there’s no way that Flint can lose a straight up fight with a random super.”
>>
>>5420988
+1
>>
>>5420968
>>”Tell me where they are and I’ll intercept them for you. Keep working on the vault, but get ready to bounce at any moment.”
>>
>>5420980
>>5420988
>>5421054
>>5421091
>>5420990
>>5421080
>>5421297
>”Tell me where they are and I’ll intercept them for you. Keep working on the vault.”

I'll include the hotdog in the list of options for when you confront this mysterious figure. Writing...
>>
File: Spoiler Image (543 KB, 3300x5100)
543 KB
543 KB PNG
“Tell me where they are and I’ll intercept them for you.” you offered. “You keep working on the vault while I’m gone.”

“Sending the details now.” Prowler said, and you felt your phone buzzing a second later. “You’d better watch your ass out there.”

“Funny. Everyone else seems to do that for me.” you joked. “Ana says that I’ve got one of the best asses she’s ever seen! That’s high praise coming from her.”

“I’m hanging up now.” Prowler grumbled, before ending the call.

—-------

As you swung towards the area that Prowler designated in his message, you kept your eyes peeled for anything unusual. Fortunately, searching the skies was a whole lot easier than the alternative, because it didn’t take long for you to spot your unwanted guest.

To your great surprise and relief, it didn’t look anything like the Silver Surfer. Quite the opposite, really.

The man was in fact, completely clad in black and red body armor, with a mask that completely obscured his face. But his appearance was something of an afterthought as you focused your attention on his choice of transportation.

It wasn’t a surfboard like everyone else had assumed. It was far too short, and you were pretty sure that you could see wheels on the bottom. Is that a…rocket propelled skateboard?

Huh. So it is. This guy and Rocket Racer have a lot in common. Maybe they know each other or something.

Regardless of how ridiculous he looks, this guy was undoubtedly heading towards the bank that your team was currently robbing. You were getting pretty annoyed at having to swing back and forth just to cover their asses, but you supposed that it was better than getting arrested and losing all of your money.

Fortunately, the skateboard guy didn’t seem to notice you yet. You had the upper hand here.

How will you approach him?

>Offer him a hotdog, of course. You can’t hate a guy that offers you a free dog.
>Kick him off his skateboard when he least expects it.
>Spook him with your Hidden Guns and chase him around until your team is finished with their job.
>Just go up and talk to him. Maybe he isn’t even a superhero.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5421364
>Offer him a hotdog, of course. You can’t hate a guy that offers you a free dog.
>Just go up and talk to him. Maybe he isn’t even a superhero.
This guy gives me an edgelord vigilante vibe, but that's no reason to be rude.
>>
>>5421364
>>Spook him with your Hidden Guns and chase him around until your team is finished with their job.
>>
>>5421374
Ok, just checked and it's Night Thrasher, and he really is an edgelord vigilante.
>>
>>5421364
>>Offer him a hotdog, of course. You can’t hate a guy that offers you a free dog.
>Ask if he's a friend of Rocket Racer
>Stall him with words and pretend you're also a hero who tries to gather information
>Signal to the team that he likely won't be an issue
>>
>>5421364
>Offer him a hotdog, of course. You can’t hate a guy that offers you a free dog.
>Just go up and talk to him. Maybe he isn’t even a superhero.
>>
>>5421383
Support
>>
>>5421383
+1
>>
>>5421364
>Kick him off his skateboard when he least expects it.
>>
>>5421374
>support
>>
>>5421364
>Offer him a hotdog, of course. You can’t hate a guy that offers you a free dog.
>Just go up and talk to him. Maybe he isn’t even a superhero.
>>
>>5421374
>>5421383
>>5421450
>>5421504
>>5421535
>>5421774
>>5421878
>Offer him a hotdog, of course. You can’t hate a guy that offers you a free dog.
>Ask if he's a friend of Rocket Racer
>Stall him with words and pretend you're also a hero who tries to gather information
>Just go up and talk to him. Maybe he isn’t even a superhero.

Taking these. Writing...
>>
You weren’t entirely sure how to approach this one, so you decided to try and be friendly. It was good fortune that you found another hotdog stand on the way over. Whoever this guy was, he couldn’t hate a guy that offered him a free hotdog. That’s like, a cardinal sin for a New Yorker, or something.

And who knows? He might not even be a superhero.

—-

Right as the masked skateboarder was rounding the corner of a particularly high skyscraper, you swung around to meet him. His head whipped around to stare at you, and you thought you could see him reaching for something in his utility belt.

But he suddenly paused when he saw the hot, steaming frank dangling before his eyes. He stared at it, and then back at you.

“Hotdog?” you offered, stretching an arm out towards him as you clung to the building.

The man stood perfectly still, hovering on his board, and not making a single move to accept your gift.

“What? Not a fan of mustard? Should I have asked for relish too?” you asked, inspecting the hotdog for any imperfections.

Still, the man in black just stood there, watching you carefully.

You cleared your throat awkwardly. “Are you a, uh…friend of ‘Rocket Racer’, by any chance?”

“Never heard of him.” the man said in an electronically processed voice. His tone was cautious, with a clear undertone of impatience.

You cocked your head to the side. “Really? Are you sure? You guys have almost the same exact gimmick.” you said. “He’s even got a skateboard like yours.”

The man let out a derisive snort. “I highly doubt that.”

Well that’s one plan out of the window.

“If that was all,” the man said, tuning to fly around you. “You can keep the hotdog. I don’t make a habit of accepting food from strangers.”

“Wait!” you called out, running along the building to keep up with him, holding onto the hotdog all the while. “But, I’m not a stranger! I’m a superhero, just like you!”

The skateboarder slowed down slightly, but not enough for you to break pace.

“Yeah? Good for you.” he said dryly, not even bothering to look back.

Dammit! This guy really didn’t seem too interested in staying to chat. You would have to grab his attention in a different way.

>”Are you on any hero teams? If you are, then I’d like to join up!”
>”You’re headed to the bank to stop that robbery, right? I’m about to take care of it, so you don’t have to worry about it.”
>”I was wondering if you needed any backup. Maybe a partner for a special team-up?”
>”I need your help! There’s a bomb somewhere in this city, and I need to find it before it goes off!”
>”I really like your board! What sort of modifications have you made to it?”
>Write-in.
>>
>>5421919
>Well, you tried the nice way. Web his board to make him fall and get ready to fight.
>>
>>5421919
>You’re headed to the bank to stop that robbery, right? I’m about to take care of it, so you don’t have to worry about it.”
>>
>>5421919
>Mention we’re part of a crew staking out the bank robbers to get more information on where they’re taking the cash and who they’re working with.
>Say we were sent over to intercept him so he doesn’t charge in and get hostages killed. He can join if he plays ball for a bit.
>Radio our “hero” crew for a status update on the robbery, confirm the “villains” haven’t killed any hostages still, mention we picked up the hero, and ask if they know where our next “lookout” position is.
A mixture of continuing to pretend we’re a hero, an implicit warning not to charge in or he’ll have to deal with us, delaying his arrival by getting him to join a stakeout, and keying the crew in to set up an ambush wherever our “stakeout spot” is.
>>
>>5421919
>>5421962 +1
>>
>>5421926
+1
what did everyone actually expect
>>
>>5421919
>wedgy the edgy

>>5421926
+1
>>
>>5421926
>>5422629
>>5422654
>Well, you tried the nice way. Web his board to make him fall and get ready to fight.

Taking these. Writing...
>>
With a sigh, you dropped the hotdog and fired a webline at the back of his board. You tried being civil about this, but if he wasn’t going to give you the courtesy of stopping to talk to you for a minute, then you weren’t going to refrain from kicking his ass.

To your great surprise, though, the man in black didn’t fall off his board when you tried to yank it out from under him. Normally, the sudden jolt and lack of inertia would’ve thrown him off. Instead, he lurched forward violently, and whirled around to snarl at you.

He looked from you to the webline, and you felt as if the skateboarder was making snap judgments based on your sudden act of betrayal. While he was doing that, you inspected his board closely, wondering why it was that he hadn’t fallen off. And that’s when he hit you.

His boots were magnetized. Because of course they were...

In one swift movement, the man knelt down, popped a blade out of his gauntlet and swiped at your webline. But instead of it getting stuck, the weapon sliced right through the thick strand, allowing him to escape your clutches.

That came as another shock to you. There weren’t a lot of weapons that were sharp enough to manage that.

The masked vigilante didn’t waste any time in trying to create distance between the two of you. He seemed to have made his mind up about you, so you pushed off of the building and leapt after him.

Suddenly, your spider sense screamed in the back of your mind, giving you advance warning of a danger that you were unable to see.

Trusting your gut, you flung your arms back, webbed the building behind you and yanked yourself backwards just in time. And it was a good thing that you did, because the vigilante twisted around on his board in a rather impressive maneuver and lifted it up to expose the propulsion mechanism underneath.

At first, you assumed that he might be trying to slow himself down. But that notion was quashed as soon as you saw a bright flash emanating from the bottom of his board, followed by a deafening explosion, and a thick cloud of smoke that filled the air around you. He had been trying to bait you into exposing yourself to an attack.

Aerial combat was so much trickier when your opponent had free range of movement like this. It gave you nasty flashbacks to the time when the Vultures ruled the skies.

You felt another spider sense flareup, and you quickly yanked your arm away just in time to avoid a throwing star flying out of nowhere. This projectile was immediately followed by a hail of bullets puncturing the thick smokescreen to come find you.

By this point, you were flipping end over end along the sheer, vertical surface of the building you had been clinging to. This sneak attack hadn’t gone nearly as smoothly as you thought it would.

(Cont.)
>>
What will you do?

>Stay in the smokescreen and lean into your senses. You don’t need your eyes to fight this clown.
>Pay attention to where the projectiles are coming from, and toss out your web bombs to see if you can catch him with a few of them.
>Use a few Explosive Marks to clear away the smoke so that you can regain visibility.
>Use this smokescreen to sneak away and head back towards the bank. You might have to pull out a little earlier than you would’ve liked.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5422873
>Stay in the smokescreen and lean into your senses. You don’t need your eyes to fight this clown.
>>
>>5422873
>>Use a few Explosive Marks to clear away the smoke so that you can regain visibility.
>>
A couple of Wonderland-inspired supermercenaries. Colours and other Desperadoes to follow.
>>
>>5422873
>Pay attention to where the projectiles are coming from, and toss out your web bombs to see if you can catch him with a few of them.
>>
>>5422873
>Use this smokescreen to sneak away and head back towards the bank. You might have to pull out a little earlier than you would’ve liked.
>>
>>5422892
Nice! Can't wait to see more!

I still need to get that commission of the whole crew at some point.
>>
>>5422873
>Stay in the smokescreen and lean into your senses. You don’t need your eyes to fight this clown.
the spider is on with me, I am one with the spider.
>>
>>5422878
>>5423463
Roll 1d100, bo3!
>>
Rolled 11 (1d100)

>>5423474
>>
Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>5423474
>>
Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>5423463
SPIDER POWERS, GO!
>>
Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>5423474
>>
.
>>
>>5423476
>>5423481
>>5423490
Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: 5302894-night trasher.png (1.03 MB, 745x1062)
1.03 MB
1.03 MB PNG
>80

For a brief moment, you were tempted to give into your base instinct to flee from the area. To flee from the dark and dive back into the welcoming light of day. But before you could make any sudden movements, you remembered that you didn’t quite need to use your eyes to perceive danger and keep track of your opponents.

Unlike your eyes and ears, your spider sense has never once failed you. On the contrary, the times when you’ve been hit were when your body or brain were unable to respond in a timely manner to the advance warnings.

It was always present in your mind, in some shape, way or form, but its vibrations were usually far too weak for you to pay any real attention to. The sights, sounds and sensations of day-to-day life were much more distracting, and usually required most of your attention. But not this time.

This time, they only served to muddle your thoughts and senses. You didn’t need them.

Against every survival instinct that you were born with, you closed your eyes and opened yourself up to your other senses. Acrid smoke filled your nostrils, and the sound of the vigilante’s rocket board echoed throughout your ears.

You listened closely, attempting to put a picture to the lurking danger that you vaguely sensed from beyond the fog. It was proving rather difficult, as vague threats were almost always formless in your mind’s eye. You were incapable of sharpening it beyond a “bad feeling”. Like a creeping dread that sent shivers down your spine. But instead of it just your spine, it was sort of like…your whole entire body? No, it was more like “your entire being”. It was a hard feeling to describe.

Your thoughts were suddenly interrupted by another round of gunfire cutting through the smoke. You avoided them easily, pushing off the building and springing towards the source of the attack. Miraculously, you knew exactly where you should move your arms, and when you should close your fingers around your target: Your opponent’s left wrist.

Your opponent thrashed violently, surprised by your speed and strength. He had stopped firing from the gun in his gauntlet, and was now attempting to plunge his other fist into your gut. You quickly intercepted this blow, however, grabbing his fist and pushing back against it. In any other situation, you would’ve had the upper hand. But in this case, you were at his mercy when it came to aerial maneuvering.

It was because of this that he was able to lean back away from you, tuck in his legs, and release his board. The rocket propelled device shot up like a missile as its engines flared, giving you barely more than half a second to avoid being clipped on the chin. The damn thing might have fractured your skull if you had been any slower!

(Cont.)
>>
You fell back, having let go of the vigilante’s hands a split second before the board came up, and you were now watching its shadowy silhouette fly through the smokescreen, independent of its rider. This took a while to register in your mind as “unusual”, and you soon found yourself looking for the man in question. After a few seconds, you spotted him.

He was descending quickly, not panicking in the slightest as his board flew back down to catch him. You silently cursed yourself for not being quick enough to catch it before he did.

You attempted to make up for this by snagging him with a webline instead. He seemed surprised yet again by your ability to land a shot in such limited visibility, but it didn’t seem to slow him down much.

You yanked on the webline, shrinking the distance between you and your target by a considerable margin, and wound your fist back for a punch.

Then, you heard a snap, and your arm was suddenly caught by a hard, metal rod of some sort. It took you a moment to realize that your attack had been neatly parried, but it was a second that cost you far more than you were willing to give.

A dizzying flurry of blows slammed into your head, chest, stomach and shoulder, but you at least managed to protect your throat with the one remaining arm. You could barely see them coming. The armored gauntlets bit into your flesh with each impact, and you instinctively broke off the engagement before any further damage could be done. The suit’s light padding wasn’t enough to protect you from savage strikes such as those. Your spider sense was telling you that this man’s fists were far too deadly for someone of your skill level to contend with. It gave you an even stronger sense of foreboding than when you were mixing it up with Matt, and that was really saying something. Superhuman strength, speed and durability were the only things keeping you in this fight, and it just burned you up inside to admit that to yourself.

By now, the smoke was beginning to clear, and you were once again able to see with a decent amount of accuracy. The masked rider was flying out into the open sky, creating yet more distance between the two of you. He knew that he held an advantage over you here.

What will you do?

>Toss out your web bombs and try to bog him down with webbing.
>Reel him in with another webline and hit him with an explosive punch!
>Try to blind him with a Garlic Pepper Pellet, and wail on him while his guard's down!
>Try to damage that board with a few well placed shots from your Hidden Guns.
>Slap a Spider Tracer on him and flee the scene.
>Taunt him and try to bait him towards more favorable terrain.(Write-in)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5423615
>>Try to damage that board with a few well placed shots from your Hidden Guns.
>>
>>5423615
How does
>Web his feet to his board
sound on top of other things? He can cut the webbing, but cutting his feet free means cutting into the board unless he’s incredibly precise. Or if he has something built into his feet. Should stop him from doing any fancy tricks with the board.
In general,
>Reel him in with another webline and hit him with an explosive punch!
Or reel us in with a webline, either way. We can garlic him if we crack the helmet.
>>
>>5423615
>Try to damage that board with a few well placed shots from your Hidden Guns.
>Reel him in with another webline and hit him with an explosive punch!
>>
>>5423615
>Reel him in with another webline, then slap an explosive mark on his skate-rocket-board-thing
Nobody is allowed to have toys besides US.
>>
>>5423615
Slap a Spider Tracer on him and flee the scene.

Also inform the crew. We have bigger things to worry about.
>>
>>5423615
>>5423630
>>5423674
Switching to back this. If he loses the board, he can’t catch us when we leave for the bank.
>>
>>5423615
>Try to damage that board with a few well placed shots from your Hidden Guns.
>>
>>5423618
>>5423638
>>5423674
>>5423905
>>5424019
>Try to damage that board with a few well placed shots from your Hidden Guns.
>Reel him in with another webline, then slap an explosive mark on his skate-rocket-board-thing

I'm sure we can try to combine these. Roll 1d100, bo3!

I'll gather the rolls and post an update once I'm well rested.
>>
Rolled 60 (1d100)

>>5424199
>>
Rolled 65 (1d100)

>>5424199
>>
Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>5424199
>>
Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>5424199
>>
>>5424209
>>5424252
>>5424302
Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: 602562-2.jpg (513 KB, 1000x1407)
513 KB
513 KB JPG
>65

You shrugged off that feeling of foreboding from before, fired a webline at his board once more and pulled yourself towards him. As soon as you were out of the smokescreen, you had your Hidden Guns loaded and at the ready.

In the few seconds that it took you to cross the distance between you and the vigilante, you managed to fire off about a dozen shots at what you thought were the board’s weakest points. Each and every time, they just pinged off in random directions, and you made a silent promise to yourself to invest in some sort of armor piercing projectile in the future.

Fortunately for you, your opponent didn’t have the presence of mind to cut the tether this time. This might have been due to the fact that he was expecting you to shoot at him instead of his board. You witnessed further evidence of this when he positioned his arms to protect his vitals. It was because of these reasons that he was unable to effectively shake you off or evade your next attack. You were going to make sure that he regretted it.

As soon as you were close enough, you placed both hands on the board and activated your Explosive Mark. You would’ve tried covering the entire surface of it, but your opponent apparently noticed that you were up to something, because at that very moment, he kicked the turbo boosters up another notch. The resulting engine flare up had enough force to knock you off, and you were more than eager to be away from the thing. This suit wasn’t nearly as fireproof as your normal one, and you weren’t trying to damage it as badly as your other ones.

As you fell, you gazed upwards at the vigilante, grinning in grim satisfaction as smoke began to rise from the back of his board. And before he even had a chance to react, the rear engine exploded on the underside of the board!

In a trail of smoke, the vigilante made his uncontrolled descent back towards the ground, swerving, diving and rising at random intervals.

“And good riddance.” you said, shaking your fist at his back, before lazily turning to face the ground, which was quickly approaching.

Now all you had to do was get back to the bank and-

Your spider sense suddenly flared up, and you whirled around to meet your assailant!

Too late. The sound of whooshing air had filled your ears, making you unable to hear the approach of a sputtering engine.

The vigilante slammed into your back, barreling forward on a wild charge that he likely didn’t have too much control over. But judging by the way he was wrapping his arms around you, there was no mistaking his intent.

Seeing the rooftop that he was currently steering you towards, you gripped his forearms hard. Hard enough that you could feel the metal gauntlets being slowly crushed under your hands. When his grip tightened in response, you decided to try a different tactic by using your Mark to superheat the sturdy material.

(Cont.)
>>
This was apparently enough to spook him, as he released you right before the two of you collided with the concrete floor. But a half second was all you needed to break into a smooth roll, recover and turn to face your attacker.

The vigilante’s landing wasn’t nearly as smooth, but he didn’t look like he was willing to give up anytime soon. The two of you stared each other down for what felt like a minute, slowly circling each other and trying to get an angle over the other. And in the corner of your eye, you spotted his busted hoverboard lying out in the open.

What will you do/say?

>”Give it a rest, already! I’m pretty sure you missed your window to stop that robbery, anyway.”
>Snatch his board. “I’m taking this as compensation for the time you just wasted.”
>Break his board over your knee. “Good luck getting down from here.”
>"You know, I never even got your name. I'd love it if you could save me the trouble of looking you up later."
>Web his feet to the floor and jump off the roof.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5424469
>Web his feet to the floor and jump off the roof.
>Check the board for trackers or a bomb
If it's clean
>Snatch his board. “I’m taking this as compensation for the time you just wasted.”
If it isn't
>Break his board over your knee. “Good luck getting down from here.”
>>
>>5424469
>>"You know, I never even got your name. I'd love it if you could save me the trouble of looking you up later."
>One last tussle for the road?
>>
>>5424469
>Snatch his board. “I’m taking this as compensation for the time you just wasted.”
>Web his feet to the floor and jump off the roof.
>>
>>5424469
Break his board over your knee. “Good luck getting down from here.”
>>
>>5424469
>Write-in
>Point at him accusingly
>"You shoulda took the hotdog."
>Leave and web his board to the side of a building a couple of blocks away
He seems like the type to keep a grudge if we keep or permanently break it.
>>
>>5424623
+1
>>
>>5424469
>>5424623
Confusing and slightly deranged. I approve.
>>
>>5424623
support
>>
>>5424623
+1
>>
>>5424623
>>5424625
>>5424636
>>5424649
>>5424678
Taking these. Writing...
>>
“You should’ve taken the hotdog!” you shouted, pointing an accusing finger at him.

This clearly wasn’t what he was expecting you to say or do, because he froze for a few seconds, no doubt wondering what his next move should be.

Lucky for you, these crucial seconds were all you needed to snag his board with a quick webline. The vigilante broke into a sprint in an attempt to stop you, but you were already diving over the edge of the rooftop, swinging off into the distance with his board in hand.

Without even having to look back, you knew that his eyes were trained on your back, no doubt shouting curses at you through that stuffy helmet of his. And just so you could avoid making another nemesis, you make a display of webbing his board to the side of a particularly tall building, several blocks away.

Once again, you’ve bested a formidable foe! And all it took was a single disarming statement.

—------

Once you had returned to the bank, you were pleased to learn that they had just about cleaned it out completely. A good chunk of Flint’s sand reserves were used to soak up the hallucinogenic agent that White Rabbit had used to sabotage the water supply.

From there, it was smooth sailing. The rest of the gang, including yourself, pitched in to help loot the vault, with Lorina staying in the main hall to watch over the hostages.

Once the loot had been loaded into all three vehicles, all of you piled in and peeled the fuck out, laughing madly all the while. Flint was so excited that he had forgotten how much he hated taking the form of a giant British girl.

This was an absolutely massive haul! All in all, you had probably managed to snag over $50 million in cash! And this was BEFORE you had appraised the value of what you’d grabbed from the safety deposit boxes and whatever the tellers had up front!

But you couldn’t celebrate just yet. You still weren’t out of the woods.

Your flashy getaway would undoubtedly attract a lot of attention from the authorities, and eventually, more supers. You couldn’t just ride around the city with this much cash, in a vehicle this big and distinct. You needed a real getaway plan.

What will you do?

>Dump the cash into the sewers and let Flint deliver it to White Rabbit’s mansion.
>Drive straight to the beach and see if you can’t have Flint bury these trucks for later.
>Have White Rabbit’s men drive these trucks all around the city, while you and the others take turns grabbing bags full of money and splitting off in different directions.
>Get out there and cause some more chaos with your web bombs! They can’t follow you if the roads are all blocked up.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5425131
>Have White Rabbit’s men drive these trucks all around the city, while you and the others take turns grabbing bags full of money and splitting off in different directions.
>Dump the cash into the sewers and let Flint deliver it to White Rabbit’s mansion.
>>
>>5425131
>Have White Rabbit’s men drive these trucks all around the city, while you and the others take turns grabbing bags full of money and splitting off in different directions.
>Dump the cash into the sewers and let Flint deliver it to White Rabbit’s mansion.
Most of the cash going down the sewers, but the distracting trucks is nice. It ain’t drugs or people, so it’s a valid use.

Wonder how long it’ll be before they put a 1% “transportation maintenance” fee on us.
>>
>>5425131
>>Dump the cash into the sewers and let Flint deliver it to White Rabbit’s mansion.
>>
>>5425131
>>Have White Rabbit’s men drive these trucks all around the city, while you and the others take turns grabbing bags full of money and splitting off in different directions.
>>
>>5425131
>Dump the cash into the sewers and let Flint deliver it to White Rabbit’s mansion.
>>
>>5425367
support
>>
>>5425133
>>5425201
>>5425367
>>5425786
>>5425453
>>5425784
Alright, I'll try to combine these like >>5425201 said.

First:
>Dump the cash into the sewers and let Flint deliver it to White Rabbit’s mansion.

And then:
>Have White Rabbit’s men drive these trucks all around the city, while you and the others take turns grabbing bags full of money and splitting off in different directions.

Writing...
>>
File: clean (1).jpg (639 KB, 1821x2800)
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Surprising everyone around and behind you, both dump trucks made sudden and unannounced stops in front of manhole covers and sewer grates. After which, said trucks would raise their trailers, dumping massive amounts of sand and cash into the sewers below. Judging from their expressions, the range of emotions playing across the faces of the onlookers was anywhere between curiosity, amusement, anger and absolute shock.

None of them knew about the little metal carts that your crew had set up down there. Now, White Rabbit wasn’t quite precise enough to judge the exact location where you would make this drop, but she had gotten it pretty close. Her self satisfaction was made entirely evident by the enthusiastic grin she had as she fiddled with her many wristwatches.

While this method wouldn’t help you to offload your entire haul, it would certainly help to lighten the load. Funnily enough, the actual bank robbery itself was the easy part. Now, you had to actually get away with it.

—-------

Over the next few minutes, you, Cat, Prowler and White Rabbit were stuffing bills into bags, carrying them off to predetermined drop points. For each trip, you carried as much as you possibly could without it interfering with your mobility. And for someone like you, who had a significantly larger weight capacity than everyone else on your crew(aside from Flint), that meant far less trips for you.

Every now and again, cops would shoot at you as you left, but their aim wasn’t nearly good enough to actually land a solid hit on any of you. But surprisingly enough, that wasn’t even your biggest problem.

The two largest issues here were communication, and mobility.

Since the trucks were constantly moving, in different directions sometimes, communication at this stage was crucial. You all needed to know exactly where everyone was at all times. Flint included.

Every now and again, the big lug would reappear in a dramatic way, bursting out of the sewers to cut off your pursuers. And that led to your other problem: Keeping the trucks going.

After a while, cops started laying road spikes and trying to shoot out your tires. A flat tire here meant that you would get overwhelmed almost immediately. So, you had to change up your strategy.

Instead of devoting your team to solely transporting money, you had to take turns distracting the cops. This meant either disarming them, webbing their windshields, blowing out their tires or disabling their cars in exotic and creative ways. You even had to use a few web bombs for this.

But despite all this effort you were putting in, you all knew that this couldn’t go on for much longer. Eventually, you would either get very unlucky, or an even bigger fish would swim over to ruin your day. You doubted that skateboard guy was the only one out on patrol today.

By this point, one of the trailers was almost completely empty, and the other was a little under half full.

(Cont.)
>>
What will you do?

>Create one giant web sack, stuff as much money into it as you can, and carry it off while the others bail on the trucks.
>Dump however much money you can into the sewers and escape through the tunnels.
>Recall Flint, have him gather up all of his sand, and get him to carry you and the money off into the distance.
>Keep going! You can always ditch White Rabbit’s goons when the actual heavy hitters show up.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5426099
>>Create one giant web sack, stuff as much money into it as you can, and carry it off while the others bail on the trucks.
>>
>>5426099
>>Create one giant web sack, stuff as much money into it as you can, and carry it off while the others bail on the trucks.
>Dump however much money you can into the sewers and escape through the tunnels.
Our sack of money will actually be a distraction, the real amount will go through the tunnels.
>>
>>5426099
>Dump however much money you can into the sewers and escape through the tunnels.
>Use our webbing and any remaining bombs to seal the sewers at various points and funnel the cops away from you.
I’d prefer to use web bombs and our regular webbing to seal the sewers and keep them from following us.

Note to future selves, plan escape routes better. We could have planted web bombs in the sewers to block off entry points in advance if we brought it up with the Morlocks so they didn’t interfere.
>>
>>5426102
This and make a impromptu spider web santa hat.
>>
>>5426099
>Create one giant web sack, stuff as much money into it as you can, and carry it off while the others bail on the trucks.
We're a spider damn it, we should start acting like one.
>>
>>5426102
>>5426368
>>5426103
>>5426141
>>5426376
>Create one giant web sack, stuff as much money into it as you can, and carry it off while the others bail on the trucks.

Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: DoH7kT0UUAAOWgV.jpg (48 KB, 586x526)
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“Everybody, grab as much cash as you can and bail!” you shouted. Almost immediately, everyone hopped into the back of the truck and began stuffing their duffel bags to the brim. You did the same, but your approach was a bit more unusual.

Along with your bags, you and Prowler were stuffing bills into your utility belt, your pants, and any other hidden compartments you might have. Even Cat was stuffing a few choice items into her cleavage.

But you impressed all of them by creating your own web pouches and compartments along your suit, and filling them with cash.

Clever though it may be, the end result left you looking a little something like a mix between the Michelen Man and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man. Somewhere along the line, you got the bright idea to make a little hat so that you could stuff it with jewelry from the safety deposit boxes.

Feeling satisfied and rather bloated, you waddled over to the back of the truck and created what could only be described as a blanket of webbing, before draping it over the remaining loot.

With some effort, you managed to wrap up everything that had gotten caught in your web, and rolled it into a bag that you slung over your shoulder. It was incredibly heavy, in an awkward sort of way. You just knew that this thing would throw off your balance something fierce when you tried to swing with it in tow.

Cat seemed to be thinking along these lines as well, because she gave you a casual wink and a salute, before firing her grappling hook at a nearby street light. She and Lorina were clearly laughing as they flew from the truck. Whether it was about you or their delight at pulling off the heist, you couldn’t tell.

Predictably, the other two weren’t nearly as amused by the situation. Prowler was looking positively puffy as dollar bills stuck out of the places where he had filled his suit to the brim. And Flint was still grumpy about having to take the form of an oversized, amazon Alice that had countless valuables and sticking out of his body.

Both looked at you as if daring you to laugh, but you decided to save it for the after-party.

“Catch you on the flipside.” you said, hefting the bag over your shoulder and firing a webline at a nearby building. The take-off wasn’t nearly as smooth as you would’ve liked, as all the extra wait caused you to sag a bit.

It took some effort on your part to pull yourself into the air, kick your legs up, and reel in the bag before it took Prowler’s head off. And just like that, you were clumsily swinging through the city like a wrecking ball filled with an absurd amount of money.

—--------

(Cont.)
>>
A few hours later, you and the rest of your crew met back up once the heat had died down a bit. It took quite some time to go back and collect those bags that you’d dropped all over the city. Especially because you were on the watch for any patrolling heroes that might have been looking for you. You at least felt safe in assuming that skateboard guy was going to be out of commission for a while, so long as that ride of his was still busted.

Little by little, you and the others made several trips back to White Rabbit’s mansion, dropping the money off, and then heading back out for more. This continued until it was early in the evening, when you salvaged everything that you possibly could without breaking into the local police department.

After abandoning that truck, the cops most likely confiscated the rest. As for the Bunny Butlers that were driving it, you were surprised to learn that they somehow managed to evade capture, even without your help. Maybe they were more competent than those goofy masks led you to believe.

—----

Once everyone had a moment to catch their breath, you all retreated back into the mansion, where you and the butlers sat in a large ballroom, counting up your spoils and regaling each other with personal accounts of how the heist went in your personal opinions.

“Ohhh, baby!” Flint exclaimed, his eyes as wide as saucers. “If I could still cry, a scene like this would bring a tear to my eye.”

“You said it, Sandy~.” Felicia purred. “Been a long time since I’ve gotten a haul this big.”

“None of this would’ve been possible if you hadn’t cracked that safe as fast as you did.” Lorina said, staring closely at a small, finely cut gemstone. “You put us way ahead of schedule!”

“Now, now. Let’s not downplay Flint’s role in all this.” you put in, flipping through a fat stack of $20 bills. “If it wasn’t for him, we probably wouldn’t have been able to get that money out of there at all.”


“Can’t argue with that.” Prowler agreed, a clear note of delight in his voice. It was hard for anyone to be grumpy with this much money at their disposal.

Flint beamed at you both in appreciation, and you flashed a wide grin at him in return.

“We should celebrate.” you decided. “It’s been a while since anyone’s pulled a heist this big around these parts.”

“I’m sure Funny Bunny’s got some expensive drinks squirreled away in that cellar of hers.” Felicia suggested.

“We could do that…” Lorina began. “Or…we could go to the super cool villain bar that I go to sometimes!”

Prowler raised an eyebrow. “Villain bar? Sounds shady.”

“We’re shady people, sunshine. It comes with the profession.” Cat retorted.

(Cont.)
>>
“I don’t know. I kinda want to check the place out.” Flint said, unable to hide his enthusiasm. “I mean, after this job, we’ve got to be in the Big League, right!?”

You all exchanged a look, and found that you all agreed with this sentiment. There was no way that this wouldn’t make the news. If people didn’t already know about you, then they sure at hell do now. For better or worse, “Spider-Man” could no longer remain a myth or an urban legend. The same could be said for the others.

You wondered what Matt and Angela would think. Or how Madame Webb and Julia would respond.

What would Cindy think?

You quickly shook your head, pushing such thoughts to the back of your mind and focusing on keeping count of this money. You were meant to be celebrating, not contemplating the consequences of your actions!

How would you like to celebrate tonight?

>Have a private party in White Rabbit’s mansion and raid her cellar.
>Encourage the others to visit this supervillain bar that she was talking about.
>Finish counting the money as quickly as possible so you and the others can get home to celebrate on your own terms.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5426913
>Finish counting the money as quickly as possible so you and the others can get home to celebrate on your own terms.
I can almost guarantee you that going to a villain bar or getting drunk immediately after pulling a heist like this is a great way to get our shit stolen.
>>
>>5426913
>Have a private party in White Rabbit’s mansion and raid her cellar.
>>
>>5426913
>>Finish counting the money as quickly as possible so you and the others can get home to celebrate on your own terms.
We're in it for the money, not the thrill or recognition (unlike Lorina)
also cool kids don't need to crash their own celebrations.
I'd like to know the location, but don't go there today
>>
>>5426913
Supervillain bar
>>
>>5426913
>Finish counting the money as quickly as possible so you and the others can get home to celebrate on your own terms.

I prefer hero that does crime every now and then over villain
>>
>>5426913
>>Finish counting the money as quickly as possible so you and the others can get home to celebrate on your own terms.
>>
>>5426913
>Finish counting the money as quickly as possible so you and the others can get home to celebrate on your own terms.
>>
Alright I know this is a little late, but is robbing banks actually a victimless crime?
I know the physical cash is insured, but what about the stuff in the safety deposit boxes? Is it only rich people that use those?
>>
>>5427042
I use one and would be devestated. I have diamonds, gold, titles, birth certificates and other stuff.
>>
>>5427047
I have no idea if you're joking or not. Also wouldn't all of the valuables in those deposit boxes also be insured?
>>
>>5427052
I'm serious. It's insured but the hassle and you never get the actual value and my one of a kind items can't be replaced.
>>
>>5427054
Alright that's fair. And this isn't to say you shouldn't keep valuables in safety deposit boxes, but why would you keep your birth certificate or objects of sentimental value anywhere besides your home?
>>
>>5427063
Typically a banks safe is more guarded than a home and better against fires. Those safes are thick
>>
>>5427071
Alright, fair consideration. It's just weird to me as I've always opted to keep my shit as close by as possible.
>>
>>5427047
can we agree to give back any birth certificates

I want to say passports, but if we find like a surplus of female passports, we need to alert the authorities to some human trafficking
>>
>>5427078
yeah
>>
>>5426913
>>Encourage the others to visit this supervillain bar that she was talking about.
>>
>>5426913
>Have a private party in White Rabbit’s mansion and raid her cellar.
May as well be a little social.

I’ll also back comments about returning anything of obvious sentimental value (jewelry probably wouldn’t count) and important documents that seem to be for random janes and joes. We’re thieves, not assholes. Though keeping copies of the documents in case we want to sleuth using them later wouldn’t be a bad idea.
>>
>>5426913
>Finish counting the money as quickly as possible so you and the others can get home to celebrate on your own terms
But obtain villain bar's location, and do the latter part of >>5427158 about returning stuff like birth certificates and whatnot
>>
>>5427042
Money is insured but safety deposit boxes are often used to store items with great sentimental value. Feels kinda scummy pawning that kind of stuff off.
>>
>>5426917
>>5426922
>>5426976
>>5426987
>>5427031
>>5427330
>>5427078
>>5427100
>>5427733
>Finish counting the money as quickly as possible so you and the others can get home to celebrate on your own terms.
>Separate the items of sentimental value, passports, other necessary documents, etc.

Ben's a pretty considerate thief these days. We've come a long way from stealing Connors' wristwatch. Also, writing...
>>
Does anyone remember how the split was decided for the Desperados that arranged the gig? Felicia's supposed to get the bigger cut since she set this up, but I can't remember the exact percentage we decided on(if we did at all). I can go digging through the archives if you guys aren't sure.
>>
File: 1479088-whiterabbit_dh.jpg (136 KB, 534x792)
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Eventually, you decided that it would be best to have a more private celebration with the members of your team that participated in this job. White Rabbit seemed visibly disappointed by this decision, but she didn’t make a big deal out of it. You could always do another job together sometime later.

>Lorina Dodson a.k.a. “White Rabbit” has been added to your Contacts!

As you sorted through your loot, you noticed that there were a fair amount of objects that most likely held some sort of personal or sentimental value to the original owners. Things like jewelry were fair game, but there were other items that you felt less comfortable with taking.

Birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce papers, death certificates, bonds, social security cards, journals, letters, diaries, family photos, rare collectibles, property records, car titles, and flash drives. There was so much shit to sift through that you had to start delegating the handling of more sensitive information to Cat and Prowler.

This made the process take significantly longer than it would’ve if all hands were on deck, but complaining wouldn’t have let you go home any quicker. After a few hours, you all had separate stacks of bills divided amongst yourselves, and several piles of jewelry arranged by size, rarity and quality.

Judging from the rough appraisal that Cat gave you, you’d say that you currently had a little over $74 Mil in your possession!

The hall erupted into cheers and triumphant cries. You were literally vibrating with excitement. You’ve never even SEEN this much money in one place, let alone having it in your possession!

You felt like you were on top of the world. People would be talking about this one for months!

After a few minutes, the thrill of a freshly pilfered vault had died down enough for you to remember that you still had to divide up your spoils.

Since Cat and Lorina set this up together, they ended up taking the larger cut, which left you with about…$10 mil. Which is still a staggering amount of money for any one person.

And seeing as how this is in line with the policies laid out by the 10 Commandments, you’re not about to complain now.

>$10,000,000 has been added to your savings!

You spent a few more hours transporting said cash to a secure location within the sewer tunnels, and gave Callisto a call to notify her of the situation. She didn’t seem to care much, and she didn’t ask too many questions about how you got your hands on it.

Hopefully, none of the other Morlocks would see fit to stuff their pockets when they thought you weren’t looking. You’d have to recount when you started bringing it back to your base.

(Cont.)
>>
What will you say to White Rabbit before you leave?

>”Cat was right. That was pretty fun. We should do it again sometime.”
>’What are you gonna use your share of the money for? You look like you’ve got more than enough.”
>”Be sure to send me the info about that bar later. Maybe we can go out for drinks sometime.”
>”I hope you pay these butlers well, because they pulled out all the stops today. Either way, I’d suggest a raise.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5427944
>”I hope you pay these butlers well, because they pulled out all the stops today. Either way, I’d suggest a raise.”
>”Be sure to send me the info about that bar later. Maybe we can go out for drinks sometime.”
>>
>>5427954
+1
>>
>>5427898
Hey, Connors would've got a new one easy! Or am I remembering wrong?
>>
>>5427944
>>”Cat was right. That was pretty fun. We should do it again sometime.”
>>
>>5427944
>>”Cat was right. That was pretty fun. We should do it again sometime.”
>>
>>5427944
>>”Be sure to send me the info about that bar later. Maybe we can go out for drinks sometime.”
>>”I hope you pay these butlers well, because they pulled out all the stops today. Either way, I’d suggest a raise.”
>>
>>5427954
>>5427998
>>5428100
>>5428322
>>5428372
>”Cat was right. That was pretty fun. We should do it again sometime.”
>”I hope you pay these butlers well, because they pulled out all the stops today. Either way, I’d suggest a raise.”
>”Be sure to send me the info about that bar later. Maybe we can go out for drinks sometime.”

Taking these. Writing...

I'm going to have to split this update up a bit to save time. It'll set up the vote for your next course of action, and then I'll write up the second half once I get home again.

>>5428000
He did, indeed! But he lost that one after his Lizard transformation.
>>
File: 5537517-bunny.png (408 KB, 408x648)
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“Cat was right. That was pretty fun.” you admitted. “We should do it again sometime.”

Lorina beamed at you. “I’ll say! That was the smoothest job I’ve had in a while.”

“Even though we were involved in a high speed chase with half the NYPD?” Prowler asked.

“The risk makes it all the more fun.” Cat said with a confident smile.

“See? She gets it.” Lorina said, pointing at Cat with an approving grin.

“Speaking of risks,” you began. “I hope you pay these butlers well, because they pulled out all the stops today. Either way, I suggest a raise.”

White Rabbit tapped the side of her face with a gloved finger as she took one long look around the room. Her hired goons were standing completely still, watching her hopefully.

Finally, she nodded. “They did do a good job, didn’t they? Not a single one got caught. That has to be a new record!” she exclaimed, giving them a small round of applause. “Pat yourselves on the back, ladies and gentlemen! You’ve earned a bonus.”

With cautious optimism, the bunny butlers and maids glanced around at one another and joined her in applauding themselves. You and the others gave them your thanks as well.

If it weren’t for them, you probably wouldn’t have been able to make such a clean getaway.

—----

As you were all heading out, Lorina took it upon herself to escort you to the door. She didn’t seem too keen to let you all leave just yet. You felt a bit bad when she would make repeated offers to let you help her smash a few clocks or play polo out in her backyard, only for you to turn her down in favor of getting home sooner.

Right when you were at the door, you stopped and turned to face her.

“Be sure to send me the info on that bar later. Maybe we can go out for a few drinks.” you suggested.

The corners of Lorina’s lips curved upward into a smile.

“Maybe.” she said, a teasing note in her voice. “You all still owe me a tea party. Grumpy pants promised me he’d wear the hat and everything.”

“No, I didn’t.” Prowler said in a flat tone, without turning around.

You leaned in to whisper in White Rabbit’s ear and gestured for her to come closer.

“I’ll make it happen. Even if I have to glue it to his head.” you said, sharing a conspiratorial grin with your accomplice.

Lorina let out a giddy squeal as she bounced on the tips of her toes, fingers clasped in delight.

Cat and Flint risked a curious glance over their shoulders, no doubt wondering what the two of you were up to. In your opinion, it’d be way funnier if they didn’t know.

—--------

What will you do tomorrow?

>Check out that prison break job that Cat told you about.
>Head down to Phin’s shop and spend some of your newly acquired cash.
>((TIMESKIP))
>Write-in.
>>
>>5428554
>>((TIMESKIP))
>>
>>5428554
>((TIMESKIP))
>>
>>5428554
>>Head down to Phin’s shop and spend some of your newly acquired cash.
Fix up your suits already
>>
>>5428554
>Head down to Phin’s shop and spend some of your newly acquired cash.
Fix suits, acquire generic Spider-man suit for do-goodery with Madame Webb.
>>
>>5428667
Ya know, we DID just come up with a device that can bend light and make shit invisible.
Maybe we can incorporate that tech into a new iteration of our suit to make the colors shift around.
Colors are determined by wavelength after all, something a light bending suit should totally be able to manipulate.
>>
>>5428554
>>Head down to Phin’s shop and spend some of your newly acquired cash.
>>
>>5428554
first
>Head down to Phin’s shop and spend some of your newly acquired cash.
then
>Check out that prison break job that Cat told you about.
>>
>>5428554
also do some sign language training.
>>
>>5428554
>Head down to Phin’s shop and spend some of your newly acquired cash
>((TIMESKIP))
You know, I’ve been thinking this for a while and never brought it up, but now that it’s become relevant I think it needs to be said.
The hair lady that Cat wants to spring from jail? I think she’d be a detriment to the Desperadoes. She’s used to being a queen bee among the inmates, and I think that kind of attitude would grate against the egalitarian organisation we’ve built together. From what we know about her, she seems the type to install a hierarchy just so she can be at the top of it.
Thoughts?
>>
>>5428554
>>Head down to Phin’s shop and spend some of your newly acquired cash.
>>((TIMESKIP))
>>
>>5428554
I want to do some proper clean up after ourselves
>check if there was no civilian that had an allergic reaction from the halucinogenic or any other side effect
>check if we're cool with out vigilante friends
and, as we already discussed:
>make arrangements for all the sentimental value or buerocratic loot from the deposit boxes
for that I'd like to hire/ask Julia to look up these names and do facial recognition from photos, etc.

if we commit to a timeskip I want to get the following out of it:
>more mundane spidey suit
>super stealth suit by Sam that obviously also bends thermal radiation around us
>get super HUD augmented reality (that was hinted by Julia, I believe?) that lets us "see through" walls by displaying the buildings schematics in an accurate 3D fashion
in the meantime stock up on web grenades and karma and follow through on cooking lessions again
>>
>>5428565
>>5428578
>>5428625
>>5428667
>>5428696
>>5428805
>>5428878
>>5428881
>>5428910
>Head down to Phin’s shop and spend some of your newly acquired cash.
>Fix suits

If you want to request a new suit, I'll include it as an option for when you get there. Be sure to post pics for anything specific. If the pic doesn't exist, then you can just describe it for me.

Writing...

>>5428910
I appreciate the attention to detail. I was gonna have the group drop off the remaining items from the safety deposit box to their local police department, but we can leave that as a vote if you would like to debate the method through which you would go about returning everything.
>>
By the time you’d reached your base, you were already breaking out the drinks and clearing out space for your team to kick back and relax. This sudden intrusion had alarmed Cindy, who was apparently frying up a Korean dish for her lunch tomorrow.

She was unable to give you the exact name without her phone, but you let her walk you through the steps of making it as you did your best to lend her a hand in the kitchen. It looked relatively simple to make, seeing as how the majority of it consisted of fried eggs, ground beef, diced onions, rice and several kinds of sauces. You figured that you could replicate the dish on your own without much difficulty.

Eventually, the conversation drifted towards your unique costume. The design of which seemed to greatly amuse her.

Thankfully, you were spared the effort of coming up with an explanation for it when the other three came strolling through the door, wondering what the two of you had been cooking. When neither of you were able to give a satisfying answer as to what the dish was actually called, they quickly lost interest and started the party without you.

—-------

Even with your reasonably decent cooking prowess, you weren’t at all guilty when you fell back on an old classic. Chinese take-out!

Although, this caused a brief argument between the others, where Cat suggested something more expensive, like lobster or sushi. And Prowler made a rather compelling argument for Vietnamese food.

The only one that stayed out of it was Flint, who, understandably, was incapable of eating, and thus didn’t have a reason to argue. He became grumpy and sullen for a while after that, and you and Cindy put a great deal of effort into cheering him up again.

It wasn’t easy. He almost relapsed when he realized that he couldn’t get drunk with you and the other two.

You tried to distract him with a dramatic retelling of your battle with the skateboarding vigilante from before, and it seemed to do the trick. The only tricky part about all this was how you and everyone else was forced to leave crucial details out of your stories.

For one, you weren’t about to tell Cindy about the bank job just yet. All she knew was that you and the others had a thrilling adventure of sorts. She, of course, knew that you were leaving out details, but she wasn’t terribly keen on pressing you for information.

And in perhaps, the most guardian-like gesture you’ve recently attempted, you checked the time, and casually suggested that she head off to bed before it got too late.

Clearly too tired from her lessons to argue with you, she yawned, rubbed at her eyes and retired for the night. You all exchanged waves and affectionate goodbyes, your moods becoming increasingly influenced by the alcohol.

It’d be a lie to say that the party was in full swing once the minor had left the room. Quite the opposite, really.

(Cont.)
>>
Out of consideration for Cindy, you all lowered your voices to the best of your ability and talked well into the night. Several hours later, Cat and Prowler decided to call it quits. And it was a good thing, too. Felicia’s continued efforts to get you flustered left you in woefully frustrated state. You’d been sitting cross-legged for a while now, and you prayed that no one noticed.

But even these meaningless worries melted into the back of your mind when you and Flint eventually passed out on the couch. For the first time in a while, things were finally starting to go your way.

—-------

The next morning, you woke up to the pleasant surprise of Flint washing the dishes. He’d finally worked up the courage to put on a pair of rubber gloves and approach the kitchen sink. He kept bitching about the splashback making his chest, arms and face all muddy, but it was far too early for you to pay any real attention to what he was saying.

It was only when you got some coffee in you that you started putting any real thought into what you were going to do today. Seeing as how you just got paid, you were feeling tempted to splurge on something nice for a change. With $17 mil hidden under your mattress and underground, you felt like a dragon resting atop his gold hoard.

You could pay Phin’s shop a visit. You’ve been meaning to get your other suits fixed up, anyway.

After you ate a home-cooked breakfast and called for Cindy to wake up, you slipped into your classic suit, and gathered up the other ones that had been damaged on important missions.

There was the Silver Lining suit, which had been given to you by Silvermane, and greatly damaged during your fight with Typhoid Mary.

And then there was the Hot Purrsuit, which had been designed by Anastasia, and damaged during your attempt to capture Tossa.

And lastly, there was your most recent acquisition, given to you by White Rabbit, and slightly damaged during your fight with the skateboard guy. The damage wasn’t anything notable, but you figured that you might as well bring it in if you were going there anyway.

—--------

Upon arriving at Phin’s shop, you were momentarily stunned by the surprising emptiness of the shelves. It was as if someone had been trying to clean the place out.

Cautiously, you stepped over to the old man’s counter, unnerved by the severe lack of tripping hazards and obstacles along the way.

“Hey, Phin. I guess business has been good.” you said, casually.

He let out an amused snort. “Yeah, something like that.” he replied, not taking his eyes off of the complicated piece of machinery that he was tinkering with. “I’m going to have to move the shop soon, so I figured I would get rid of the excess junk that I didn’t need.”

You gave him a puzzled look. “Moving? Did something happen?”

(Cont.)
>>
“Hm? Ah, no. Nothing too unusual, as far as I can tell.” he said dryly. “I move the shop around every couple of months. Keeps the feds off my tail, and lets me operate with a decent amount of autonomy when I’m on someone else’s turf.”

“So you’re the neutral gearhead.” you summarized.

“Pretty much.” Phin replied. “Was there anything you needed?”

“Yep.” you said, opening your bag and giving him a glimpse of your suits. His eyes narrowed slightly, before he nodded and stepped out from behind his counter.

“The damage is relatively minor, for the most part. But the silver suit has built-in insulation, and that’s gonna cost you a bit.” he said, more to himself than anything. “I’ll fire up the fabricator. Should be done in about two hours, give or take.”

>$4,800 has been removed from your savings

“You’re the best, Phin!” you said, breathing a sigh of relief.

“Uh-huh.” he said with a small grin. “Anything else you need while we’re here? Any upgrades or gear you want to grab?”


>"I was thinking of another upgrade for one of my suits."(Write-in.)
>"I had an idea for a cool gadget."(Write-in.)
>"I've got a new suit design that I wanted to pass along to you."
>"Can you let me in through the back? I wanted to browse for a bit while you work."
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5429037
>"Can you let me in through the back? I wanted to browse for a bit while you work."
>>
>>5429037
do you have in your notes somewhere with what suits have we been seen stopping crime and saving people?

>"I was thinking of another upgrade for one of my suits."(Write-in.)
>>"I'm looking to build some AR into my lenses. Just a hardware problem for now, I have my people for software."
>"Can you let me in through the back? I wanted to browse for a bit while you work."
>>
>>5429037
>"I was thinking of another upgrade for one of my suits."(Write-in.)
>""I'm looking to have my lenses made AR capable. Just a hardware problem for now, I have my people for software."
>"Any chance I could get a pair of shades with the same specs too? I'm not always in costume after all."
>>
>>5429066
+1
>>
Do the Desperados know our identity yet or is it just Flint and Cindy still?
>>
>>5429139
they for sure know our first name's Ben. But we also got Felicia's first name, though Prowler is still not on a first name basis with us
>>
>>5429037

>>"I'm looking to build some AR into my lenses. Just a hardware problem for now, I have my people for software."
>"Can you let me in through the back? I wanted to browse for a bit while you work."
>"I had an idea for a cool gadget."(Write-in.)
>Upgraded flashbang using the suit tech, Rhino laser, and our web bombs as the basis. Charges after creation, releases a laser burst through fracture points in the bomb. Alone, it’ll burn people caught in the blast and cause a combat-long debuff to people who were caught viewing it. When paired with other bombs or overcharged via a suitable energy source, can light objects on fire.
>Rehashing the laser drill/pistol from earlier with the horn as a focusing apparatus and self-charging/rechargeable batteries from the suit tech.
>>
>>5429087
Supporting
>>5429151
I’m excited to find out whether he’s Hobie or Aaron.
>>
>>5429182
I'm leaning towards Aaron, though it could very well be Hobie if Score wanted to throw us for a loop.
>>
>>5429238
I think we all were
when we talked about Cindy going to Visions and potentially meeting Miles there, while we coincidentally meet Aaron at a parent gathering thing Score did say that'd be fun enough to "change some of his plans"
>>
>>5429037
>>"Can you let me in through the back? I wanted to browse for a bit while you work."
>>
>>5429045
>>5429066
>>5429087
>>5429117
>>5429176
>>5429182
>>5429273
>"I was thinking of another upgrade for one of my suits."(Write-in.)
>>"I'm looking to build some AR into my lenses. Just a hardware problem for now, I have my people for software."
>"Can you let me in through the back? I wanted to browse for a bit while you work."

There are some neat ideas being thrown around here. Don't be discouraged if yours isn't picked. You can always pitch your ideas at a later date, maybe when we have more components to refine them a bit.

Taking these. Writing...

>>5429066
I think all of your good deeds were committed while wearing the classic Huntsman suit. You saved those people from the burning building while wearing it, and you were seen wearing it while running through Julia's obstacle course.

Up until now, your public appearances during the daytime has been kept to a minimum. The bank job was the longest interaction or engagement you've had with regular people at a decent hour.

>>5429139
>>5429151
You've never explicitly given them your full name or shown your face around them. They know you as "Benny" from Flint, but that's not nearly enough to incriminate you in most cases, so you let it slide. And while you know Cat's first name, neither of them have offered to show their faces either.

>>5429182
>>5429238
>>5429258
I think I found a good way to rework his identity a bit. It does change a few things that I was planning on setting up in the far future, but it's not a huge loss. This is part of the fun of running a quest, after all. Even I don't know how things might shake out sometimes.
>>
File: maxresdefault (1).jpg (131 KB, 1280x720)
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“I’m looking to install some AR tech into my mask’s lenses.” you said. “It’s just a hardware issue, for now. I have my own people working on the software end.”

Phin nodded without even breaking his stride. “Oh, that should be simple enough. They’re relatively cheap, and you get good value out of them.” he explained. “They’re a bitch to repair, but you can obviously afford the cost.”

“I appreciate it.” you replied. “Do you mind if I have a look around the back while you work?”

Phin gave you a dismissive wave before pulling back a purple curtain. “Not at all. Take your time. We should still have some good stuff lying around here somewhere.”

You stepped behind the curtain and into the dimly lit backroom, where Phin’s shadiest clients could pick up little knick-knacks here and there.

The first thing that caught your interest was a silver, cylindrical device that fit snugly into the palm of your hand. It looked a lot like a detonator of some sort, but the label above it said “Preprogrammed Fist Material”. Whatever that meant.

With a shrug, you pressed the button on top and waited for something to happen. And to your shock, a thick layer of gleaming metal burst out of the cylinder and wrapped itself around your arm!

It was an actual effort for you to remain calm, as you hadn’t felt your spider-sense flair up. You were staring in awe as your now gauntleted fist flexed and articulated at your command. It was moving with your hand, despite being several times larger than it.

“Whoa…” you said, at a loss for more eloquent words.

Not wanting to break anything, you spent the next couple of minutes trying to deactivate the damn thing. Eventually, you managed to do it by making the same motion that you used to press the trigger. The strange metal receded back into the cylinder, and you gingerly placed it back on the shelf, still feeling like you witnessed something impossible.

Moving on, you found two peculiar looking, roundish objects. They resembled lumpy gray marbles, with a bright orange core. They were being suspended inside a cube-shaped container of what almost appeared to be pure energy.

“Hey Phin, what do these do?” you asked, gesturing at the cube.

Phin raised his head to glance in your direction, and then grinned at you.

“Why, those are ‘Unstable Pym Pebbles’.”

“Pym ‘Pebbles’?”

“Yup. They can shrink down anything as big as a person, or a car, and imprison it within the marble for about an hour.” he explained.

“Holy shit…!”

“Yeah well, they’re not cheap. I’ve only just started tinkering with them, and those are among the first batch.” he said, beaming with pride as he gazed at the glowing orbs.

Making a mental note to return to this item, you kept moving through the cramped aisles, hoping for something as marvelous as your last two discoveries.

(Cont.)
>>
The next thing that caught your eye was an oval shaped, metal device labeled “Resonance Amplifier”. You guessed that it was some sort of sonic cannon.

It wasn't as exciting as the other two, but you could still see the clear value in it? A ranged disabling weapon that wasn't explicitly lethal would really come in handy.

What will you buy?

>Preprogrammed Fist Material - $30,000
>Unstable Pym Pebbles - $500,000
>Resonance Amplifier - $250,000

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5429342
>Unstable Pym Pebbles - $500,000
I think our impromptu web sack during the tail end of the heist has made the issue abundantly clear.
Sometimes we just have far too much to steal. These should make that less of an issue.
>>
>>5429342
>Preprogrammed Fist Material - $30,000
>>
>>5429342
>>Preprogrammed Fist Material - $30,000
Is it 30k or 300k? seems really cheap
>>
>>5429342
>>Resonance Amplifier - $250,000
>Unstable Pym Pebbles - $500,000
We cab field test those pebbles for him
>>
>>5429342
>Preprogrammed Fist Material - $30,000
>Unstable Pym Pebbles - $500,000
>Resonance Amplifier - $250,000
Assuming the price of the fist isn’t a mistype, I’ll vote all three. If it’s really 300k, I’ll only vote for the other two.
We have the suit absorber tech, light amplification horn, and sonic amplifier. We will eventually get to the point of a BS “absorb, amplify, reflect everything shield” even if it only lasts a minute before frying.
Does he have any user experience stories for the Pym Pebbles? If not, I’d be willing to sign up as an experiment in exchange for a free pebble from the next batch. Maybe we can find a way of breaking it early.
>>
Oh, another idea to run by Prowler if we get the sonic amplifier.
>Banshee Bombs
>The size of a web bomb, this device emits a constantly shifting shriek that ramps up over several seconds from “annoying” to “painful” as it amplifies its own sound. Stacking bombs increases the amplification speed and the disorientation.
>Alternately, with a minimum of four bombs they can be primed to overcharge each other, releasing a single concussive blast almost immediately. Additional bombs can cause it to lift people and debris in the blast on top of rupturing ears, but not much further than that as the bombs fizzle too quickly to go further.
Subject to QM tweaking for balance.
>>
>>5429360
>>5429367
>>5429377
>>5429378
>>5429422
It was indeed a typo. I was rushing to wrap up the update before I had to leave the house. My bad!

It's supposed to be $300,000.

>>5429526
I think for starters, I would patch out that last part about lifting debris and people. Pushing them away would be fine, but I think thay last feature would be better suited to an entirely different gadget.
>>
>>5429342
Buy it all
>>
>>5429551
I'm keeping my fist
>>
>>5429551
So it’d just be a concentration breaker, best used against anything with heightened senses or a magic caster. Less utility, but it should make them more reasonable to build en-masse. I’ll keep it in mind for next time.

Since it was a mistype on the fist, I’ll drop that from my vote like I stated. Unless we hand it to Cindy instead? l
>>
>>5429360
>>5429367
>>5429377
>>5429378
>>5429422
>>5429674
>Preprogrammed Fist Material - $300,000 - 3 votes
>Unstable Pym Pebbles - $500,000 - 4 votes
>Resonance Amplifier - $250,000 -3 votes

This is what we've got so far. Writing...

>>5429378
>>5429422
As for the testing and info on the Pym Pebbles, I'll have Ben bring it up as a talking point while he's finishing his transaction.
>>
In the end, you decided to go for all of the above. You’ve got more than enough money to go around right now, so splurging on useful tools doesn’t seem like a bad idea at all.

>$1,050,000 has been removed from your savings

>You’ve obtained Preprogrammed Fist Material x 1
>You’ve obtained a Resonance Amplifier x 1
>You’ve obtained Unstable Pym Pebbles x 2

After bringing the items to the front counter and discussing payment options with Phin, you found yourself marveling at the glowing orbs within the miniaturized containment field.

“How far have you gone with testing these?” you asked, pointing at the Pym Pebbles. “Got any user experience stories for me?”

Phin scratched his chin and hummed thoughtfully.

“For starters, don’t try to shrink anything larger than a pickup truck.” he advised. “The results of that have been largely…unpredictable. It’d be unsafe for both you and anyone around you. And anything living that’s imprisoned there should be able to get back out in one piece.”

You nodded. “Got it. And, if you need someone to gather more data for you, I’d be more than willing to lend a hand.”

Phin gave you an appraising look. “In return for what?” he asked.

“Maybe a freebie from the next batch?” you suggested. “I can field test them for you, and if I happen to shrink something odd or witness an interesting interaction between the Pebble and another object, I’ll be sure to let you know in full detail.”

After a few seconds of silence, Phin placed his hands on the counter and nodded as well.

“Show me some results, and then we can talk about payment.” he declared.

The two of you shook hands, and then made idle conversation until your suits were ready. Phin pretty much confirmed that you could load the Pebbles into your Hidden Guns as projectiles, or just throw them by hand. They would only go off after impacting a solid object at high speeds.

You’d definitely have to make a custom pouch on your utility belt for them if you didn’t want it to go off in your pocket.

>The Silver Lining suit is no longer damaged!
>The Hot Purrsuit is no longer damaged!
>The Decked Out suit is no longer damaged!

What will you do?

>Ask Phin another question.(Write-in.)
>Commission another gadget/item.(Write-in.)
>Head home and start preparing dinner for Cindy.(TIMESKIP/Prison Break/Write-in.)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5429924
>>Head home and start preparing dinner for Cindy.(Prison Break)
>>
>>5429924
Ask him about being our sole inventor. Also Cindy dinner then timeskip
>>
>>5429924
>Write-in
>Pay a visit to Gwen or at least check in on her during the TIMESKIP
Last we heard was she was going to take some 'aptitude test' from Maria Hill
>>
>>5429924
>>Head home and start preparing dinner for Cindy.(TIMESKIP)
>>5429947
I'll support being emotional support for Gwen too
>>
>>5429930
Check on Gwen and our huntress booty call
>>
>>5429947
+1
>>
>>5429947
This
>>
>>5429930
>>5429947
>>5429955
>>5429964
>>5429965
>>5429999
>Pay a visit to Gwen or at least check in on her during the TIMESKIP

I was going to have you interact with her during the Timeskip, but we can have it happen beforehand as well. You might even get to see something interesting.

Writing...
>>
File: Spoiler Image (152 KB, 732x1126)
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Sometime later, after you’d dropped your freshly repaired suits and new gadgets off at home, you slipped back into your classic suit and pulled out your pager. Now that you’ve got some free time, you think you’ll pay Gwen a little visit.

—-------

This time, there was no S.H.I.E.L.D. shuttle to come pick you up like there usually was. Instead, a flat, compact drone flew by the building that you were perched upon, slowing down just enough for you to latch onto it and catch a ride as it flew up into the clouds. You were surprised that it was strong enough to lift you up without much trouble at all.

The trip wasn’t comfortable by any means, and you quickly found yourself being whipped around in the wind, praying for the nightmare to end. This went on for another four minutes, until the little drone brought you to a small, private platform on the Helicarrier, where there weren’t many people milling about.

Here, you were greeted by a man with dark skin and even darker, roundish glasses. He was wearing a black and red bodysuit, with an emblem of a wolf with yellow eyes on his waist and shoulders. You could see a sidearm strapped to his hip, and two escrima sticks strapped to his back.

“You must be the Huntsman.” the man said in a deep, accented voice.

“I am. Who are you?”

The man placed his arms behind his back and nodded slowly.

“You may call me ‘Bloodhound’. Director Hill instructed me to greet and guide you.” he announced.

You remember Pandora saying something about this guy on your Neverland mission.

“You mean she ordered you to babysit me.” you said flatly.

Bloodhound chuckled. “I suppose that is one way to look at it.” he said, before turning and gesturing for you to follow. “Come. I will show you to Ms. Stacy.”

At a loss for alternative options, you followed Bloodhound down the corridor, staring at his back all the while. You remembered when Goblin Gwen said something about Maria Hill putting her on a team and using her as a weapon. Even though she was just trying to provoke a reaction out of you, you knew that there was some truth to this statement. And Pandora’s casual remark only confirmed it.

Maria Hill was putting together a secret team of metas for some reason, and this guy was one of them.

The silence between you stretched the entire length of the corridor, and the majority of the elevator ride that brought you up to what you thought was possibly the 13th level.

Every now and again, Bloodhound would ask a probing question, and you would answer, without giving too much away.

“How do you know Ms. Stacy?” he asked.

Like that one.

“We helped each other out of a bind, and I introduced her to Hill.” you said in reply.

(Cont.)
>>
Like that one.

“We helped each other out of a bind, and I introduced her to Hill.” you said in reply.

Bloodhound nodded in pleasant acknowledgement. “Ah, so it is you that I have to thank for her appointment to my team.” he said, without a hint of malice or sarcasm. “She is doing much better now that her condition’s symptoms are being suppressed.”

“I’m glad to hear it.” you said. And the mood between you and the other man seemed to lighten considerably.

However, there was something that you just couldn’t ignore about the way he would look at you. Or, more specifically, the way he wouldn’t look at you, even when he spoke directly to you.

You glanced at his glasses, and noticed that they were strikingly similar to the kind that you saw Matt wearing when he was out of costume.

What will you say?

>”So…why do they call you Bloodhound? Does it have something to do with your powers?”
>”Are you, uh…blind?”
>”You wouldn’t happen to be Wakandan, would you? The accent sounds a bit familiar to me, is all.”
>”This team of yours, what exactly do you guys do for Hill?”
>Say nothing and let the moment pass in silence.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5430043
>”You wouldn’t happen to be Wakandan, would you? The accent sounds a bit familiar to me, is all.”
>”This team of yours, what exactly do you guys do for Hill?”
>I've done a few jobs for Hill, so I know it's all sensitive stuff, but I got to watch out for my friends
>>
>>5430043
>”So…why do they call you Bloodhound? Does it have something to do with your powers?”
>>
>>5430043
>”This team of yours, what exactly do you guys do for Hill?”
>>
>>5430043
>”So…why do they call you Bloodhound? Does it have something to do with your powers?”
>”This team of yours, what exactly do you guys do for Hill?”
>>
>>5430043

>”So…why do they call you Bloodhound? Does it have something to do with your powers?”
>”Are you, uh…blind?”
>”You wouldn’t happen to be Wakandan, would you? The accent sounds a bit familiar to me, is all.”
>>
Reminder timeskip means we can finally have Cindy show her feelings toward us
>>
>>5430255
As a teenager? Yeah, she’s bound to hate us per usual teenagers. Hopefully she doesn’t join up with a hero crew and try to take us down…

Shit. She’s totally going to join up with a hero crew and end up fighting us on a run. Man that’s going to make for an awkward family meal later.

Y’know, I did want to keep doing crime, but I’m not comfortable with beating up family now that I’m actually thinking about this.
>>
>>5430055
>>5430087
>>5430109
>>5430122
>>5430218
>”So…why do they call you Bloodhound? Does it have something to do with your powers?”
>”This team of yours, what exactly do you guys do for Hill?”

Taking these. Writing...

>>5430368
Life will indeed get very complicated for Ben if he tries to have the best of both worlds. It really depends on the types of jobs that the Desperados take on. It's a strange parallel of what Peter Parker tries to accomplish.
>>
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“So…why do they call you Bloodhound? Does it have something to do with your powers?” you asked.

Bloodhound gave you a wry grin.

“It does.” he said in a conversational manner. “I see more with my ears and nose than you could possibly imagine. It’s quite wonderful, actually.”

For a moment, you saw him glance around at the walls, floor and ceiling, an admiring look on his face.

“I’m not particularly fond of the codename, if I am being entirely honest.” he continued. “But I suppose there are worse names to have.”

You shrugged at his back, and you were sure that you saw the corners of his lips curl upwards into a smile.

“This team of yours, what exactly do you guys do for Hill?” you said.

Bloodhound paused for a moment, considering how he should answer your question.

“Director Hill has recruited us with the intention of creating a specialized task force. I intend to train my team in the art of infiltration, espionage and sabotage among other things.” he answered smoothly. “But I am afraid that this is all that I am willing to tell you on the matter. In order for me to fully indulge your curiosities, you would need a much higher security clearance.”

Feeling a bit agitated, you were prepared to deliver a scathing retort, but all quips died in your throat when you saw a familiar blonde amazon with rather impressive muscles. And despite her intimidating stature, her smile was bright enough to light up an entire room.

“Hey, you!” she said, rushing over to meet you as she slipped her golden shield back over her shoulder. The preppy blonde was easily a head taller than you, and it made you feel a bit strange to have to look up to her.

“You’re looking a lot better than when I last saw you.” you said brightly.

Gwen’s cheeks flushed pink and she massaged her arms with an awkward expression on her face. “Yeah, that was…yeah…” she muttered, clearly at a loss for words.

Out of the corner of your eye, you spotted Bloodhound slipping past you both and into the room, where a cheeky looking brat was floating above a table with an assortment of documents spread over it. His eyes looked slightly glazed over as they darted around the pages, and you got the distinct impression that he was incredibly bored with the assignment.

Bloodhound must have known what you were up to, because he was rolling up documents and stacking papers into a neat pile in the corner of the table.

“Don’t sweat it.” you said, returning your attention to Gwen’s flushed face. “I’m just glad that you’re acting like yourself again.”

(Cont.)
>>
The girl beamed at you, and you took a moment to take in her appearance. She was wearing a white graphic tee from some all-girl punk band that you didn’t recognize, and her jeans were tight, and purposefully torn. Her usual blonde bob was combed straight and held down by a black hairband, and you noticed some rather interesting designs tacked onto her now manicured nails.

“Same here.” she said with a relieved sigh. “What have you been up to?”

What will you say?

>”I’m taking a cooking class!”
>”I don’t want to talk about me. I want to hear more about you and how you’ve been adjusting here.”
>”I…found that guy that the Chameleon was impersonating. They’re safe now, but I’ve got some people searching for the little rat as we speak.”
>”Oh, you know. The usual. Captured a supervillain, met Reed Richards, and took a trip to a magical fairytale island.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5430614
>”Oh, you know. The usual. Captured a supervillain, met Reed Richards, and took a trip to a magical fairytale island.” but enough about me! I want to hear about you.
>>
>>5430614
>”Oh, you know. The usual. Captured a supervillain, met Reed Richards, and took a trip to a magical fairytale island.”
>”But that stuff got old, so I’m taking a cooking class!”
>>
>>5430639
And then
“Enough about me, though, I want to talk about you.”
>>
>>5430614
>>”Oh, you know. Captured a supervillain, helped some friends renovate their bathroom, met Reed Richards and got a wayward orphan an internship with him, started taking some cooking classes in an attempt to do some father-daughter bonding type stuff, took a trip to a magical fairytale island and fought some pirates, but then sorta got screwed over by the fairies themselves. The usual.”
>”I don’t want to talk about me. I want to hear more about you and how you’ve been adjusting here.”
>>
>>5430614
>”Oh, you know. The usual. Captured a supervillain, met Reed Richards, and took a trip to a magical fairytale island.”
>”I’m taking a cooking class!”
>”So what’s the two-sentence quip describing your life right now?”
>>
>>5430614
>”Oh, you know. The usual. Captured a supervillain, met Reed Richards, and took a trip to a magical fairytale island.”
>"Now with the obligatory spider themed super quip out of the way"
>”I don’t want to talk about me. I want to hear more about you and how you’ve been adjusting here.”
>>
>>5430652
+1
>>
>>5430614
>”Oh, you know. The usual. Captured a supervillain, met Reed Richards, and took a trip to a magical fairytale island.”
>”I…found that guy that the Chameleon was impersonating. They’re safe now, but I’ve got some people searching for the little rat as we speak.”
>>
>>5430639
>support
>>
>>5430623
>>5430639
>>5430642
>>5430652
>>5430792
>>5430656
>>5430687
>>5430808
>>5430902
>”Oh, you know. The usual. Captured a supervillain, met Reed Richards, and took a trip to a magical fairytale island.”
>”But that stuff got old, so I’m taking a cooking class!”
>”Enough about me. I want to hear more about you and how you’ve been adjusting here.”

Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: STK674326.jpg (1.66 MB, 1581x2400)
1.66 MB
1.66 MB JPG
You gave her a dismissive wave. “Oh, you know. The usual.” you said. “Captured a supervillain, met Reed Richards, and took a trip to a magical fairytale island. But that stuff got old, so I’m taking a cooking class!”

Just as you intended, Gwen seemed to be incredibly flustered. You really did get a kick out of putting people off balance these days. In that regard, you and your brother are pretty alike.

“W-wait, what? Which supervillain?” she asked.

Not expecting this reaction, you gave her a vague shrug. “I dunno. We never worked out a name for him.”

“Well, what’d he do?”

“He could absorb and shoot electricity out of his hands.” you explained.

“Well, we can’t have that.” she laughed. “It won’t be impressive unless he has a big scary bad guy name to brag about. What about…’Electro’!”

You scoffed.“...Wow.”

Her cheeks went red. “Oh, what!? What’s wrong with it?”

“No, nothing.” you said, unconvincingly. “Say, what grade did you say you were in again?”

“Screw you!” she said, unable to hide the smile forming on her face. “There are worse names to have out there.”

“Right you are, Ms. Stacy.” Bloodhound agreed, taking a sip of his coffee. You could see Pan snickering behind him.

“At least it’s accurate.” you admitted. And you just might be inclined to spread it around to embarrass Max even further.

“What’s this about you meeting Mr. Fantastic?” she asked.

“He’s the guy that I handed Electro to.” you answered.

Gwen sighed. “Not gonna let it go, huh?”

“Not on your life.”

“When you mentioned the magical island,” Bloodhound cut in. “Were you perhaps talking about-”

“Neverland.” Pan concluded. “They took my Lost Boys, AND that shield on your back.” he said, pointing at Gwen.

“Yeah, Miss Hill mentioned something about that.” Gwen added. “Thanks for the shield replacement, by the way.”

“If anything, you should probably be thanking Pandora. She’s the one that Hill sent to fetch it while we rescued those kids.” you explained.

Gwen shrugged. “I’ve never met her, so I’ll just thank you instead.”

“I’m honored.” you said flatly. “But enough about me. I want to hear more about you and how you’ve been adjusting here.”

She placed her hands on her hips and sighed. “It’s a lot different from home, that’s for sure. I’ll have to decorate my room here all over again.” she said. “More than anything, I miss my dad and my friends. But I can’t tell them what’s going on exactly, and my dad’s been getting super suspicious.”

(Cont.)
>>
“What about school?”

“Miss Hill said she’d handle things on that end. I’ll probably have a tutor assigned to me at some point.”

“So long as you do not fall behind in your studies here, Ms. Stacy,” Bloodhound cut in again. “I will not mind how many extracurricular activities you decide to take on.”

Gwen rolled her eyes. “Goodbye charity work, hello international espionage.” she muttered under her breath. “Oh, well. That’s kinda like saving the world in its own way, right?” she said, weakly.

“So long as you’re on the right side, yeah.” you agreed. Bloodhound seemed to be listening rather attentively now.

“I…I think I am.” Gwen decided. “Miss Hill might be a little scary sometimes, but I think she wants to do the right thing.”

Even if her methods are a little questionable. She’s even willing to work with someone like you to accomplish her goals. But, then again, anyone that hates Nazi Bees is okay in your book. You feel that that’s a more than decent way to judge someone else’s character.

What will you say/do?

>”Is this the whole team, or are the others on vacation?”
>”I would’ve thought that Hill would try and use you for something more violent. Considering how you’re all…big and stuff.”
>”Why don’t you have Doc Connors teach you a thing or two. I think he’d be happy to know that he has a fan.”
>”I can go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room if you want to liven the place up a bit. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”
>Say your goodbyes and depart the Helicarrier.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5430970
>>”Why don’t you have Doc Connors teach you a thing or two. I think he’d be happy to know that he has a fan.”
>>”I can go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room if you want to liven the place up a bit. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”
>>
>>5430970
Why don’t you have Doc Connors teach you a thing or two. I think he’d be happy to know that he has a fan.”
>”I can go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room if you want to liven the place up a bit. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”
>>
>>5430970
>"You're in the same boat as my uh...ward I guess? I'm trying to get her into Brooklyn Visions, so we're doubling down on her studies."
>”Why don’t you have Doc Connors teach you a thing or two. I think he’d be happy to know that he has a fan.”
>”I can go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room if you want to liven the place up a bit. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”
>>
>>5430970
>>”Is this the whole team, or are the others on vacation?”
>>
>>5430970
>”Why don’t you have Doc Connors teach you a thing or two. I think he’d be happy to know that he has a fan.”
>”I can go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room if you want to liven the place up a bit. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”
>"So, do you have your codename already? Major Manhatten. Private Brooklyn, Sergeant Staten Island. Okay, that last one was weak. I don't even know where you're from exactly... Queen Queens."
>"You didn't lose my number, right? I was hoping for a at least call when you were doing better, didn't need to be a conjugal visit either."
>>
>>5430970
Backing >>5430981 and >>5431008.
>>
>>5430970
>”Why don’t you have Doc Connors teach you a thing or two. I think he’d be happy to know that he has a fan.”
>”I can go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room if you want to liven the place up a bit. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”
>>
>>5430970
>”Is this the whole team, or are the others on vacation?”
>”I would’ve thought that Hill would try and use you for something more violent. Considering how you’re all…big and stuff.”
I am curious how the espionage is supposed to work with Peter Pan, he doesn't exactly blend in with the constant floating.

>>5431008
+1
>>
>>5430977
>support
>>
>>5430970
>”Why don’t you have Doc Connors teach you a thing or two. I think he’d be happy to know that he has a fan.”
>”I can go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room if you want to liven the place up a bit. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”
>>
>>5430977
>>5430979
>>5430981
>>5430989
>>5431008
>>5431195
>>5431111
>>5431096
>>5431474
>>5431737
>"You're in the same boat as my uh...ward I guess? I'm trying to get her into Brooklyn Visions, so we're doubling down on her studies."
>”Why don’t you have Doc Connors teach you a thing or two. I think he’d be happy to know that he has a fan.”
>”I can go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room if you want to liven the place up a bit. I’m sure it won’t take too long.”
>"So, do you have your codename already? Major Manhattan. Private Brooklyn, Sergeant Staten Island. Okay, that last one was weak. I don't even know where you're from exactly... Queen Queens."
>"You didn't lose my number, right? I was hoping for a at least call when you were doing better, didn't need to be a conjugal visit either."

Taking these. Writing...

>>5431195
Pan has another magical ability that he hasn't revealed to you yet, and it's crucial to the team's strategies and operations. Hill and Pandora managed to squeeze the info out of him when he was first being scouted.
>>
“You’re in the same boat as my uh…ward, I guess?” you said, speaking plainly. “I’m trying to get her into Brooklyn Visions, so we’ve really been doubling down on her studies.”

Gwen’s eyes widened. “Oh, wow. I didn’t know you had a kid.” she said, a look of pleasant surprise on her face. “Wish her good luck for me. That’s a tough school to get into, and I hear the freshman workload can be a bit intimidating.”

You nodded. “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind. And speaking of school, why don’t you get Doc Connors to teach you a thing or two while you’re both up here?” you suggested. “I think he’d be happy to know he has a fan.”

A nervous grin broke out on Gwen’s face. “I mean…it’s not like I haven’t thought about it, you know?” she muttered. “But he’s a busy guy, and he doesn’t need me drooling all over his shiny new government lab! I’m pretty sure it's a rental.”

“What’s the worst that could happen?”

“I don’t know. What if I say something stupid and he thinks I’m a poser or an idiot.”

You rolled your eyes at her. “You’re both turbo-nerds. And if that Goblin serum made you smarter than you already were, then I think you’re probably safe.”

She frowned slightly, and shook her head to clear it. “You’re right. I’m being weird about it.” she admitted. “I’ll try to go see him after I’m done here. Which is probably gonna be another couple of hours…”

“And it will continue to take up more of your valuable time if you spend it socializing.” Bloodhound said, without looking at either of you.

Gwen scowled at him. “Oh, lay off! I’ve been cooped up here for weeks now. Breaks are important for retaining information, you know.”

Bloodhound tilted his head slightly, unable to find a counter to her argument. “Fair enough. You are a particularly hard worker. Unlike a certain someone.” he said, clearly talking about the only other person in the room, who was currently making an origami crane out of an important looking document. He either didn’t notice that everyone’s attention was fixed firmly on him, or he simply didn’t care.

“You know…” you began, dragging the conversation back on track. “If you’re stuck up here, I can always go down and grab some stuff from your dorm room. It’d probably help liven the place up a bit.”

Gwen's expression seemed to be stuck somewhere between “extremely grateful” and “hesitant”. “A-are you sure? If you’re busy, I don’t want to-”


“If I was too busy, then I wouldn’t have offered.” you said, cutting across her. “Besides, I’m sure it won’t take too long.”

The blonde amazon placed a hand on her hip and breathed an exasperated sigh. “That’d be…fantastic! Thank you so much.” she said, giving you that same beaming smile from before.

(Cont.)
>>
“Don’t worry about it. I might need your help navigating the place, though.” you said. “You didn’t lose my number, right? I was hoping to at least get a phone call from you when you started feeling better. I’d even settle for a non-conjugal visit.”

Gwen scoffed, but you could see her face growing pink. “I’m not in prison, you dork.” she said. But after taking a look around, she seemed to lose confidence in these words.

“Although, there are times when I have trouble telling the difference.” she continued, running hand through her hair. “And yeah, that’s my bad. I totally forgot to tell you, but my reception is trash up here. I have to use this Wi-Fi calling app to even talk to people.”

She sounded very distressed by this development, and you couldn’t find it in yourself to keep hounding her about it. Instead, you asked her about the app, and promised to download it once you were below the cloudline again.

—--------

“So, do you have your codename already?” you asked, speaking into your bluetooth as you swung through the city.

“What is it? ‘Major Manhattan’? ‘Private Brooklyn’? ‘Sergeant Staten Island’?” you said. “Okay, that last one was weak. I don’t even know where you’re from. Maybe you could be…’Queen Queens’...?”

“First of all,” Gwen began. “I don’t see why my naming schemes only consist of boroughs. Captain America gets an entire country, and I can’t even get a measly state?”

“That’s fair. That was narrow-minded of me. You can be ‘Major Metropolis’ if you want.”

“And secondly,” she continued, apparently choosing to ignore that last part. “I was born in Manhattan, but that doesn’t mean that I want to run around calling myself ‘Major Manhattan’!”

Damn. She beat you to it.

Gwen sighed. “The truth is, I haven’t thought of anything good yet. And if I don’t think of something good before my first mission, then Bloodhound says that he’s gonna let Peter Pan come up with one for me.”

“Oh, yeah. And his naming sense is way worse than yours.”

“Don’t rub it in…” she grumbled.

“Just give it time. It took me a little while to figure out my gimmick too.”

“Yeah, but at least yours make sense. You’re out there hunting Rhino men and Russian Unicorns.” she argued.

You tried, and failed to suppress a snort. “Okay, Gwen? I know that was your very first time meeting me and all, but that’s not something that I do every day. It was weird for me too.” you said. “I might fight a giant immortal crocodile every once in a while, but I really don’t think it's all that common.”

“I just don’t feel like I’ve done anything to deserve this shield.” Gwen admitted. “Like, is it really okay for me to take all these things and call myself a ‘superhero’?”

(Cont.)
>>
“Well, considering how Captain America stepped into a vita chamber in response to a call to action, I don’t see how your situations are all that different.” you said. “You might not have been fighting Nazis in that lab, but you injected yourself with an experimental serum just so those people could have a decent chance of getting out of there.”

“To be fair, I would’ve been crushed if I hadn’t taken the serum.” Gwen put in. “So it wasn’t an entirely selfless act.”

“Doesn’t matter.” you said. “Your origins aren’t terribly important. What matters is what you do after you've got powers. From this point on, you’ve got to set an example.”

Gwen was silent for a long time after that, and you were starting to get concerned that the call got dropped, when she spoke up again.

“I never thought about it like that. Thanks, HM.”

The obvious relief in her voice was refreshing to hear, and you found yourself doing a couple of celebratory somersaults in between swings, every now and again.

“No problem.” you reassured her. “I’m almost there, by the way.”

“Good. Let me know when you want directions to my dorm.”

—------

A few minutes later, you were back in your civvies and walking amongst the normals as you all approached Gwen’s old college: “Empire State University”. Private school. Ivy league.

You suppose that it shouldn’t surprise you. She got an internship at an Oscorp Bio Lab, after all. This place was probably full of brainy people.

“I’m here. Where do you want me to go?” you asked.

“Make a left after the fountain, and keep going until you pass the science center.” Gwen responded.

“Will do.” you said, waving at a group of giggling girls that were stealing glances at you.

—------

Unsurprisingly, it wasn’t that hard to trespass on a college campus. You sort of just walked right up to the dorms and strutted around like you owned the place. It didn’t take long for you to track down the dorm room in question. The only problem was getting in without raising a fuss.

Ideally, you would’ve just crawled in through the window. But with this many people walking around, someone was bound to see you breaking into Gwen’s apartment from below. There wasn’t nearly enough cover here.

And so, you decided that you would do this as inconspicuously as possible.

Trying to look casual, you walked up to the door and tried the handle. Just as you suspected, it was locked.

You pressed your body closer to the door, glanced both ways, and pushed! With a crack, the door slid open, and you entered the room as if you had opened the lock normally. To the best of your ability, you tried to close it behind you, but it required you to push a trash can against it in order to stop it from swinging open again.

(Cont.)
>>
File: Spoiler Image (91 KB, 426x600)
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91 KB JPG
According to her instructions, you were to gather her posters, her chemistry and calculus notes, her makeup kit, and some personal effects that have been scattered around the room. Thankfully, you managed to fit all of them into one big box. This was largely due to the fact that she was unable to fit into her old clothes, so she didn’t bother telling you to bring them. And it was a good thing, too, because you weren’t too keen on making multiple trips.

It’d be next to impossible to hold onto the box and the drone at the same time, so you would have to hand it off to another S.H.I.E.L.D. agent on your way out.

Reaffirming your grip on the box, you pushed the trash can aside with your foot and stepped out into the hallway, only to be greeted by an older man with wheat-colored hair, a big bushy mustache and an even larger pair of glasses.

The two of you had almost collided in your haste, and now you were just staring at each other, trying to take in the whole situation.

Any attempts made at an apology were ruined by the man’s incredible ability to talk over you whenever you started talking.

The man was now glancing between you, the box in your hands, and the door behind you. An indignant expression seemed to spread across his features, then.

“Were you just in there?” he asked, pointing at the door.

“Oh, yeah. I was just gathering up a few things.” you said, hefting the box in your hands and pretending that it was heavy. Before adding, “The, uh…door was stuck.” when you noticed that he was gazing pointedly at the broken latch. “It was actually like that when I got here.”

The man nodded slowly. “You’re a friend of Miss Stacy’s, then?”

>”Yeah. She decided to go back and live with her Dad, and she asked me to pick up a few things.”
>”Boyfriend, actually. We’re getting an apartment together, and I wanted to help her get a headstart on packing.”
>”Something like that. She told me I could have all this stuff if I paid her, so I’m just here to pick it up.”
>”Yeah, she’s not feeling too well. She’s got something super contagious, and she doesn't want anyone else to get it. I’m bringing this stuff to her place later.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5432091
>”Something like that, yeah. She asked me to pick up a few things, she had to change her living arrangements for a while.”
>"She's coming back soon, she had to rest for a bit. Poor girl is too much of a workaholic to know when she is pushing too far."
>>
>>5432091
are we still on call with Gwen?

but generally this >>5432096 as it would clue her in to what's going on as well
>>
>>5432113
You ended the call after she gave you the directions.
>>
>>5432091
>”Yeah. She decided to go back and live with her Dad, and she asked me to pick up a few things.”
>>
>>5432114
right, doesn't change my support for his write-in
none of it is a lie
>>
>>5432091
>”Boyfriend, actually. We’re getting an apartment together, and I wanted to help her get a headstart on packing.”
Hah, this is totally Professor Warren, isn’t it? Let’s screw with him.
>>
>>5432091
Boyfriend, actually. We’re getting an apartment together, and I wanted to help her get a headstart on packing.”
>>
>>5432096
+1
>>
>>5432096
+1
>>
>>5432091
>>5432096
+1
Maybe we can mention needing a break after Oscorp if he pushes harder. Anything further would need to be discussed with her since we don’t feel comfortable speaking with a stranger, of course.
>>
Chicken shits, all of you!
>>
>>5432096
>>5432113
>>5432217
>>5432264
>>5432300
>”Something like that, yeah. She asked me to pick up a few things, she had to change her living arrangements for a while.”
>"She's coming back soon, she had to rest for a bit. Poor girl is too much of a workaholic to know when she is pushing too far."

Taking these. Writing...
>>
“Something like that. She asked me to pick up a few things, since she had to change her living arrangements for a while.” you said, sticking as close to the truth as you could without blowing Gwen’s cover.

“She’s coming back soon. Just had to rest for a bit.” you continued, trying to make your tone friendly. “Poor girl is too much of a workaholic to know when she’s pushing herself too far.”

The man’s expression became a bit softer upon hearing this, and you got the impression that he felt genuinely concerned about her.

“That’s a shame. Miss Stacy is one of my more earnest students.” he said with a sigh. “I was hoping I could ask her how her internship at Oscorp was going. I’m the one that recommended her, you see.”

“Oh, really? She says that she was learning a lot there, but they were running her a bit ragged.” you said. “She just needs a little break from everything for a while.”

The look on the other man’s face radiated nothing but the most sincere sympathy. For a teacher, this guy sure was attached to his student.

“That is…quite unfortunate. I hope she gets better soon. I would hate for her to fall behind in her studies and miss out on such a large opportunity.”

“Don’t worry. She’ll be back on her feet in no time.” you said, pushing past him and heading towards the stairs.

“Oh, well…could you tell her that I asked about her?” he asked.

You sighed, and turned back around to face him.

“Sure. You got a name?”

“Professor Warren. Miles Warren.” he said, pushing his glasses further up on his face. “But…she just calls me Miles.”

You nodded, still trying to maintain a friendly disposition, despite the weird vibes this guy was giving off.

“Right. I’ll let her know. It was nice meeting you.” you said, before turning around and heading out the door.

—------------

Several minutes later, you were back in your suit and swinging through the city with a cardboard box tucked under your arm.

Almost immediately after you left, you called Gwen back on that app she had you install.

“Hey, did you get it?” she asked.

“I got it, but I also ran into a Jeffrey Dahmer look-alike that was very concerned about your whereabouts.” you said.

“Wait, who?”

“I’m talking about your good buddy, Miles.”

Gwen fell for a moment, and you could tell that was trying to figure out who you could be talking about.

“Oh! You mean Professor Warren? What did he say?”

>”He says that he misses you being in his class, or something like that. I wasn’t really listening.”
>”He asked about the Oscorp internship. I wonder if he knows about the incident at the Bio Lab.”
>”How much do you know about him? Are you guys close at all?”
>”Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.”
>Write-in.
>>
>>5432308
Yeah, I am. If he comes to the conclusion on his own, I’ll accept laughing and not refuting it.
>>
>>5432396
>He wanted to ask a out your Oscorp internship. Did he recommend you to the specific program you were part of?
>He seemed a little… into you for a professor asking about a teacher. Is that normal?
I don’t want to outright say he’s a creep, but it’s a little weird seeing professors that invested in a single student. Maybe I wasn’t genius enough though.
>>
>>5432396
>”He asked about the Oscorp internship. I wonder if he knows about the incident at the Bio Lab.”
>”How much do you know about him? Are you guys close at all?”
>>
>>5432396
>>”Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.”
>>
>>5432400
I'll support this.
Miles is attracted to Gwen in canon, and Ben got the creeper feeling, but it doesn't hurt to try and get some confirmation before giving a warning to her.
>>
>>5432396
>>5432397
Should have said
> professor asking about a student
instead of
>professor asking about a teacher

>>5432403
Ah, I didn’t know that! I know very little about the lore in general, in spite of following this quest I only know Spiderman from the occasional movie and game.
>>
>>5432396
>”Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.”
”Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.””Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.””Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.””Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.””Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.””Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.””Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.””Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.”
>>
>>5432396
>Well I broke into your room and instead of school security (imagine my luck) or some sorority girls (imagine my disappointment) showing up it's this guy hot on my tracks. It's odd. Why does he know where your dorm room is?
Honestly the timing and location of the meet is more suspicious than anything he specifically said. The goblin was blackmailing her and she just up and disappeared and this guy is possibly watching her room?

>>5432400
+1
>>
>>5432396
>”He asked about the Oscorp internship. I wonder if he knows about the incident at the Bio Lab.”
>”How much do you know about him? Are you guys close at all?”
>>
>>5432396
>>”He says that he misses you being in his class, or something like that. I wasn’t really listening.”
>”Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.”
>>
>>5432400
>>5432403
>>5432401
>>5432402
>>5432423
>>5432432
>>5432442
>>5432512
>He wanted to ask about your Oscorp internship. Did he recommend you to the specific program you were part of?
>He seemed a little… into you for a professor asking about a student. Is that normal?
>”Listen, Gwen. You should be careful around that guy. I know a creep when I see one.”

Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: spiderman-swing (1).gif (2.08 MB, 498x370)
2.08 MB
2.08 MB GIF
“He wanted to ask about your Oscorp internship.” you said. “Did he recommend you to the specific program that you were a part of?”

“He helped me get my foot in the door, but I don’t know how much control he had over which team I would be joining.” Gwen replied, sounding deeply troubled.

“I wonder if he knows about the incident at the Bio Lab.” you wondered aloud.

“I’d be surprised if he didn’t. It was all over the news for a while. My Dad was freaking out when it happened.”

“And how’d Miles take it?”

“He left me a few emails asking me how I was doing, so I told him that I needed some time off school.” she said. “Why are you so interested in him, anyway?”

“I don’t know. He seemed a little…into you for a professor asking about a student. Is that normal?”

Gwen chuckled. “Professor Warren’s just worried about me. And I think…” she said, pausing as if wondering whether she should confide in you. “I think he’s a bit lonely after his wife died. He’s never done anything super weird, or threatening, so I haven’t thought much of it.”

“How’d his wife die?” you asked, trying to keep the suspicion out of your voice.

“Lab accident. I don’t know all the details. I feel like it’d be rude to ask.”

“Right. Well…I still think you should be careful around him. I know a creep when I see one.”

“You’ve barely known him for five minutes. He’s not a bad guy.” Gwen said sharply, agitation clear in her voice. “And in case you haven’t noticed, I’m more than capable of taking care of myself.”

“Look, I’m not trying to be mean. I just don’t want you to get hurt, or-”

“I’ll be fine.” she said crossly. “He’s never tried to touch me or do anything pervy. And if he did, I’d put a stop to it right then and there.”

“Alright, no need to bite my head off. I was just trying to help.” you argued, feeling your anger bubbling up to the surface.

Gwen sighed. “I know. I didn’t mean to blow up at you. It’s just that the other guys at my school say the same thing about him when they see him talking to me, and it just makes me feel bad.” she explained. “I don’t like bullies, even when the guy getting picked on is more than twice my age.”

“Spoken like a true superhero. That’ll be a legendary quote when they set up the ‘Major Manhattan Museum’.” you said in a jovial tone.

Gwen snorted a laugh. “I’m tempted to let Lost Boy think up a name for me just to shut you up.”

“I’ll probably poke fun at you either way, so it’s really a question of what you think you can live with.” you said.

(Cont.)
>>
From there, the conversation took a much more lighthearted turn. You had a feeling that you weren’t going to get anywhere arguing with her about her potentially pervy professor, so you figured that you might as well pave over it with casual banter.

—--------

About 20 minutes later, a S.H.I.E.L.D. shuttle was coming down to pick up Gwen’s stuff. The agents in question didn’t seem too bothered by the triviality of their mission. But they did shoot you a few weird looks as you handed it off.

“Thanks a million.” Gwen said over the phone. “I don’t know how I could thank you.”

What will you say?

>”Just try to remember me when you become famous a few years from now.”
>”I can think of a few things, but I can’t say them in front of so many eavesdroppers.”
>”You can take me with you when you go to talk to Connors. I want to check on him too.”
>”Why don't we see if we can't squeeze me into a joint training session with your guys? That Bloodhound guy looks like he knows how to scrap, and I could use the practice."
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5432828
>>”Why don't we see if we can't squeeze me into a joint training session with your guys? That Bloodhound guy looks like he knows how to scrap, and I could use the practice."
We've been putting off training for far too long. Now's the time since we don't have any urgent business to attend to.
>>
>>5432828
>”You can take me with you when you go to talk to Connors. I want to check on him too.”
Lizardman time
>>
>>5432828
>”You can take me with you when you go to talk to Connors. I want to check on him too.”
>”Why don't we see if we can't squeeze me into a joint training session with your guys? That Bloodhound guy looks like he knows how to scrap, and I could use the practice."
>"I might not be the best kind of guy around, but I don't kick people when they are down. I just was the right person in the right place at the right time and did the right thing"
>>
>>5432828
”I can think of a few things, but I can’t say them in front of so many eavesdroppers.”
>>
>>5432828
>”Why don't we see if we can't squeeze me into a joint training session with your guys? That Bloodhound guy looks like he knows how to scrap, and I could use the practice."
>>
>>5432828
>>”I can think of a few things, but I can’t say them in front of so many eavesdroppers.”
>>
>>5432828
>"I'm not impartial to food."
flirting is continuing to escalating what the other is doing, and so far, while not quite moving in on what we lay down, hasn't reacted negatively either.
>>
>>5433060
+1
You got balls. I'm in
>>
>>5432828
I’m not sure if any of those options are actually flirting. I’m not fully sold on hooking up with Gwen, but I don’t want us to flounder.
I’ll use >>5433060 as the base.
>”Hey, wonder girl and I could always use a break from cooking meals if you’re up to taking us out.”
She responded positively to the mention of a kid, so lean on that. Introducing her to the kid should indicate that we’re not interested in a fling, we’re more interested in long-term relationships. Gwen doesn’t seem like a “fuck-and-forget” girl either. Play up the fact that we cook normally as well, women like responsible men.

I’ll let anons decide if they go in costume later or in civvies.
>>
>>5433202
The mask stays on during sex
>>
>>5432828
>”I can think of a few things, but I can’t say them in front of so many eavesdroppers.”
>”You can take me with you when you go to talk to Connors. I want to check on him too.”

>>5433060
+1
>>
>>5432831
>>5432838
>>5432839
>>5432904
>>5432942
>>5432972
>>5433060
>>5433194
>>5433202
>>5433229
>”I can think of a few things, but I can’t say them in front of so many eavesdroppers.”
>"I'm not impartial to food."
>”You can take me with you when you go to talk to Connors. I want to check on him too.”
>”Why don't we see if we can't squeeze me into a joint training session with your guys? That Bloodhound guy looks like he knows how to scrap, and I could use the practice."

Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: AUG191065_l.jpg (164 KB, 1200x1823)
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“I can think of a few things, but I can’t say them in front of so many eavesdroppers.” you said, motioning for the other S.H.I.E.L.D. agents to let you aboard.

“Hold up. I’m not that kind of-”

“I’m impartial to food.” you said quickly.

“O-oh. No yeah, I like food.” she replied, clearly flustered. “But I have to warn you, the cafeteria food up here is pretty bad.”

“I’m sure we can find a work-around. But until then, you can take me with you when you go to talk to Connors. I want to check on him too.”

“I don’t see a problem with that. Maybe I won’t be so nervous if you’re there to lighten the mood.” she reasoned.

“And maybe afterwards, you can help squeeze me into a joint training session with your guys.” you suggested. “That Bloodhound guy looks like he knows how to scrap, and I could use the practice.”

“You’re asking for an awful lot here.” Gwen shot back, sounding mildly amused.

“I guess it all depends on how grateful you’re feeling.”

“It’s not up to me. You’ll have to take that up with Bloodhound.” she said.

“Then I guess I’ll have to butter him up instead.”

As the S.H.I.E.L.D. shuttle took off, you relied on your unusually acute sense of balance to prevent yourself from falling over.

—------

When you arrived back on base, you were met by an eager Gwen, who took the box out of your hands and led you back towards the room where you two had met.

Once there, Gwen placed the box into a corner of the room and told Pan to remind her to bring it to her room. Apparently, this was something of a running gag, because the Lost Boy shot her a half-glare, half-grin when he heard it. You knew full well how terrible Peter Pan’s memory was.

Then, she attempted to convince Bloodhound that a joint training session would be beneficial for the whole team. The supposedly blind man turned his attention onto you and folded his arms over his chest.

When he wasn’t being jovial and friendly, he transformed into a sphinx of a man, his expression utterly unreadable.

After about a minute of tense silence, he nodded slowly.

“I suppose we could all benefit from training that doesn’t involve LMD’s and simulations.” he concluded. “Very well. Physical training shall begin in five minutes.”

And just like that, he left the room without another word.

Who will you pair up against during training?

>Peter Pan. He can probably teach you a thing or two about sword-fighting.
>Gwen. She’s probably the closest to you in strength, and it’d be useful to learn how to take down a physically powerful opponent.
>Bloodhound. He’s got to be the best fighter out of either of these guys. And you’re tired of being outclassed by every other schmuck in this city.
>See if you can’t find another S.H.I.E.L.D. agent to get in on this.(Mockingbird/Spider-Woman/Cho)
>Write-in.
>>
>>5433294
>Bloodhound. He’s got to be the best fighter out of either of these guys. And you’re tired of being outclassed by every other schmuck in this city.
>>
>>5433294
>>Bloodhound. He’s got to be the best fighter out of either of these guys. And you’re tired of being outclassed by every other schmuck in this city.
Yeah, not gonna lie, getting smoked by some nobody on skateboard kinda reminded me of the cold hard truth.
Benny can scrap, but he's by no means a trained fighter.
That's an especially fatal problem when it feels like every meta human is a tenth degree black belt.
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>5433294
>Gwen. She’s probably the closest to you in strength, and it’d be useful to learn how to take down a physically powerful opponent.
>Bloodhound. He’s got to be the best fighter out of either of these guys. And you’re tired of being outclassed by every other schmuck in this city.
Rolling to decide.
>>
>>5433305
I'll tell you how you take down somebody who's built like a brick shithouse.
I will warn you, this is a secret technique passed down in my family for generations, so I'm not sharing this lightly.
This is for your eyes only Anon.
HIT 'EM REALLY FUCKING HARD IN THE FACE.
>>
>>5433294
>>Gwen. She’s probably the closest to you in strength, and it’d be useful to learn how to take down a physically powerful opponent.
>>Bloodhound. He’s got to be the best fighter out of either of these guys. And you’re tired of being outclassed by every other schmuck in this city.
>>
>>5433294
>Bloodhound. He’s got to be the best fighter out of either of these guys. And you’re tired of being outclassed by every other schmuck in this city.
>>
>>5433308
Secretly, I don’t really want to take Gwen down. What I want to see is Gwen showing more training than us in the short time she’s been with her team. Ben’s tears at being one-upped by a newbie hero would be worth it.

Getting our ass kicked by Bloodhound should be informative though. I’ll be happy either way.
>>
>>5433329
To be fair, Gwen isn't juggling a thousand different things at once.
She's also got access to a world class training center whenever she wants.
We either have to schedule sessions with Matt and Angela, see if Cindy isn't too busy to kick our ass, or just wail on a heavybag in some dusty old warehouse.
>>
>>5433294
>>Bloodhound. He’s got to be the best fighter out of either of these guys. And you’re tired of being outclassed by every other schmuck in this city.
>>
>>5433333
Oh and uh, I guess we can also just alternate between taking shots with Flint and punching his head off.
I feel like the gains from that started to plateau pretty fast though.
>>
>>5433294
Gwen
>>
>>5433337
He’d be a good person to focus train agility and defensive skills. He can attack from multiple directions and won’t tire so we’ll be forced to push our spider sense and reflexes heavily if we want to avoid getting clobbered.

As a general opponent? Yeah, he won’t teach us a huge amount. He won’t fight like most opponents anymore and it’s not like we can gauge how effective our strikes are against someone who can’t feel them.
>>
>>5433481
I think he'd also be great as a sorta ghetto Danger Room if he ever learns how to control multiple bodies made of sand.
Training against multiple opponents specifically is something that is heavily overlooked, especially for street level metas.
>>
>>5433300
>>5433304
>>5433305
>>5433314
>>5433317
>>5433335
>>5433438
>Bloodhound. He’s got to be the best fighter out of either of these guys. And you’re tired of being outclassed by every other schmuck in this city.

Taking these. Writing...

>>5433304
>>5433333
It's hard to believe, but this is still Year One! Ben's been insanely busy as a guy who's only just now joining this world.

I intended for "Martial Training" to be one of the options for what Ben would focus on during the timeskip. He would more or less be taking a break from work and focusing on his own personal growth.

>>5433337
>>5433481
>>5433488
Flint would be a good training partner if you wanted to get used to being assaulted from all sides and angles. But, as you guys have pretty much figured out, he can only teach you so much.
>>
File: giphy.gif (15 KB, 93x94)
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15 KB GIF
Several minutes later, you were escorted to their personal training room. It was a spacious gymnasium with multiple levels dedicated for various purposes. There was a running track, an indoor swimming pool, a weight room, and an inverted obstacle course for fliers.

You gaped at your surroundings, being drawn into the deep shades of blue that seemed to cover just about anything and everything.

Beside you, Bloodhound strode towards the middle of the room, where the S.H.I.E.L.D. emblem stood plastered on the floor.

“Lost Boy, practice your aerial drills. Miss Stacy, run your usual simulations.” he demanded. The team leader now wore a mask that obscured his entire face. He had short, pointed ears, and red glowing eyes. His costume looked incredibly similar to that of the Black Panther’s, which only further proved your theory that he had some connection to Wakanda.

Pan didn’t seem to share Gwen’s attitude, but he did as he was told. And for a moment, you thought she would follow him.

But instead, she turned around with an awkward expression.

“Actually…I was kind of hoping that I could stay and watch for a while.” she said, glancing between the two of you. “You know, just so I could learn a thing or two.”

Bloodhound turned to face his subordinate, his mask’s crimson eyes penetrating her like an x-ray. But the girl didn’t so much as flinch.

Slowly, Bloodhound nodded.

“Very well. Do as you wish.” he decided.

Gwen gave him a relieved smile, and Pan seemed to be floating somewhere nearby, watching you all from above.

“I am ready when you are.” he said, projecting his burning gaze onto you.

“Bring it!” you exclaimed, jogging over to the middle of the room and squaring up to face him with your fists raised, bouncing on the balls of your feet.

>Roll 1d100-10, bo3!
>>
Rolled 54 - 10 (1d100 - 10)

>>5433630
>>
Rolled 83 + 0 (1d100 + 0)

>>5433630
>>
>>5433633
-10
73
>>
Rolled 76 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>5433630
>>
>>5433656
Fuck, that was supposed to be a -10. Read that roll as a 66.
>>
>>5433633
>>5433656
To get a negative you need to write+-
So 1d100+-10 in this case
>>
>>5433669
I meant to do so, but I just kinda hit the autofill and forgot to check what it actually was.
>>
.
>>
>>5433630
When will Peter Pan inexplicably make a magic computer virus called "Lostboy.exe"?
>>
>>5433632
>>5433633
>>5433656
Not bad at all! I'll be taking these.

>>5433679
Good luck trying to teach him any sort of coding with that horrible memory of his! Bloodhound's having a hard enough time trying to get him to memorize drills and codes.
>>
>>5433679
Damn, I just looked up the lore for that meme. Sounds absolutely wild to just have all your shit posted out there for anyone to exploit.
>>
File: spiderman1.jpg (83 KB, 1200x644)
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>73

Feeling emboldened by the spectators surrounding you, you rushed towards Bloodhound and launched a series of quick jabs at him. He neatly dodged and parried them all, returning a few swipes of his own while he was at it.

Your superior speed and reaction timing helped you keep up with him, giving you time to properly respond to each and every attack. That was, until he started jumping around and incorporating kicks into his combinations.

The man was unusually athletic, pulling off flawless spinning roundhouse kicks and vaulting over your head as if it were the most normal thing in the world. You were having much more trouble blocking these, and you suffered a few blows to your arms, legs and chest as a result.

You tried not to let your agitation ruin your form, and instead waited patiently for the next middle kick to come your way.

And sure enough, Bloodhound’s right leg flew towards your ribs with the intent of fracturing them. At the last moment, you caught his leg and pulled him towards you, making him lose his balance for a brief moment.

But that brief moment was all that you needed.

Bloodhound was very close to you now. Too close to effectively strike you or avoid your next attack, you thought.

Before he had a chance to react to this unfortunate position, you had already delivered a swift palm-strike to his chin, sending him flying backwards across the gymnasium.

You were vaguely aware of Gwen making an excited noise in the backround, but almost all of your attention was reserved for the man that was now tumbling away from you.

It didn’t take your opponent very long to recover from your attack, as he had already rolled back onto his feet. Nevertheless, you took this opportunity to press the advantage!

Knowing that his brain must’ve at least been a little bit rattled by that last hit, you peppered him with a barrage of lightning-fast punches! He blocked most of them, but a few slipped past his guard and slammed into his chest, ribs and shoulder.

Sometime during your assault, however, Bloodhound made a very unusual decision. He turned his body away from you, exposing his back and flanks. So, you punched those instead! Only, you felt as if you were pounding your fists against rocks when they did connect with his body, and you were momentarily thrown off by the bizarre sensation.

And in one, fluid movement, Bloodhound turned his body back around and slammed his forearm and elbow into your chest. It was such a simple maneuver, but for some reason, you could feel the air involuntarily leaving your lungs as your feet slid and staggered backwards.

Now, Bloodhound was back on you with the same dogged persistence that you displayed mere moments ago. Your vision was blurry, but your spider sense was acute enough to warn you of the oncoming danger.

(Cont.)
>>
You waited for the first punch, intercepted it with both hands, turned and flung him over your shoulder! Unfortunately for you, however, Bloodhound’s reaction speed was far better than you gave him credit for, because he had managed to flip himself over and break his own fall by planting his legs on the ground after being flipped.

And with a surprising burst of speed, he twisted your arm, put you into a headlock and kicked your leg out from under you. Even with your heartbeat pounding in your ears, you could hear Peter Pan cheering and jeering from above.

You were losing air, fast. You needed to get out of this, somehow.

It would be easy to burn his arm or break it with your superhuman strength, but that would ruin the point of this exercise. You’re supposed to be learning.

What will you do?

>Use your strength to break out of his grapple, reverse the hold, and use your sticky fingers to prevent him from breaking away.
>Lift him up, swing him off and wail on him while he tries to recover.
>Perform a front flip and land right on top of him.
>Tap out and ask for a play by play of the match. You’d like to know what exactly you need to improve on.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5433717
>Tap out and ask for a play by play of the match. You’d like to know what exactly you need to improve on.
We are here to learn better techniques, don't let the ego get to our head.
>>
>>5433717
>>Use your strength to break out of his grapple, reverse the hold, and use your sticky fingers to prevent him from breaking away.
lets see how far strength takes us
>>
>>5433717
>Use your strength to break out of his grapple, reverse the hold, and use your sticky fingers to prevent him from breaking away.
We should both be getting something out of this match. Here's hoping Bloodhound learns a little something about grappling people who can bench press buildings.
>>
>>5433717
>>Tap out and ask for a play by play of the match. You’d like to know what exactly you need to improve on.
>Ask what he did when he turned around. did he absorb kinetic energy or something?
>>
>>5433717
>Use your strength to break out of his grapple, reverse the hold, and use your sticky fingers to prevent him from breaking away.
>>
>>5433737
I think I have a much more conventional explanation.
Bloodhound is likely in great physical condition, so his back muscles are probably highly developed, possibly explaining why they felt so dense.
Then you have him giving up his back in the first place. Normally this would be a huge disadvantage in a fight as you wouldn't be able to see your opponent coming.
Not a problem if you don't see in the first place however.
>>
>>5433755
im not so much curious as I want to strike up friendly conversation and show we are not a sore loser
>>
>>5433756
That can wait until after the match. It'd be rude not to give it a good effort after all.
>>
>>5433717
>Lift our leg over his head and trap Bloodhound’s neck between our calf and hamstring, putting him in a headlock of our own
Reversal, muthafucka!
I say we do this to try and pry him off without using superhuman strength, so as to not defeat the purpose of the exercise. I’d also refrain from trying to choke him out since we know nothing about chokeholds and that can be dangerous.
>>
>>5433725
Support. Also I wonder how much we're throwing our punches recently.
>>
>>5433717
What kinda hold does Bloodhound have us in specifically?
Is he getting us from the front or the back?
>>
>>5433717
>Use your strength to break out of his grapple, reverse the hold, and use your sticky fingers to prevent him from breaking away.
>>
>>5433725
>>5433735
>>5433740
>>5433760
>>5433892
Roll 1d100-10, bo3!

>>5433786
He's got you in a headlock from behind, and he's putting pressure on your back leg to prevent you from standing back up completely.

>>5433760
You're only using a portion of your strength so that you can avoid seriously injuring or killing the man. You aren't entirely sure how much he can take.
>>
Rolled 7 - 10 (1d100 - 10)

>>5433936
>>
Rolled 31 - 10 (1d100 - 10)

>>5433936
another!
>>
>>5433939
Oh.
>>
>>5433942
OH!
>>
Rolled 48 - 10 (1d100 - 10)

>>5433936
>>
>>5433939
Fugging shid:DDD
>>
>>5433936
Have we found our max strength? If not I'm sure they have something at shield that could measure it right?
>>
>>5433939
>>5433941
>>5433951
OOF!

>>5433942
>>5433943
>>5434002
And here I was thinking that a "-10" might be a bit too harsh. But then again, you were fighting with multiple disadvantages and self imposed limitations, while grappling with a more experienced grappler.

>>5434004
Nope, not yet. Get yourself one of these, anon. I'm sure you could find something if you went asking around.
>>
>>5434016
So you're saying we need to have sex with a meta? Like Gwen or she hulk? I will make it so.
>>
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>-3!

Anger and frustration welled up within you, and you struggled to rise to your full height, despite your opponent’s efforts to kneel on your back leg and keep you down. Piss, vinegar and righteous fury were the only motivating forces allowing you to push yourself this far.

Using your superior strength, you slipped your fingers under his arm and forcefully removed it from your throat. At the same time, you latched onto his suit, making it incredibly difficult for him to break away from you.

Upon realizing this, his crimson eyes went wide for a moment. Spurred on by this exciting development, you bent his arms to force him into a submission hold of your own invention!

But instead of bending the way you wanted him to, Bloodhound gave you yet another display of his flexibility and athleticism by flipping forwards, wrapping his leg around your throat and holding it firmly in place with his other leg.

In an instant, he created an impromptu chokehold with his legs! And the worst part was, you were stuck holding his body up by his arms. Sure, you thought of letting go of them in order to free yourself, but you felt that doing so would be an almost fatal mistake. He wouldn’t fall for the same thing twice.

Your mind was racing, and the only thing you could hear was the dull thud of your blood pounding in your ears. Your vision was getting blurry, and it was getting hard to stand up straight, let alone breathe.

You had to do something! You had to…

Had to…

And then, everything went black. Your surroundings and sensations faded away, along with your worries. You knew nothing at all.

—----------

With a gasp, you shot up! You shook your head and glanced around the room with bleary eyes. Where the hell was Bloodhound? And why was this room so damn bright all of a sudden?

“Oh good, you’re up!” said a familiar voice.

You turned to see Gwen, a relieved smile on her face. Pan was lazily floating somewhere behind her, looking somewhat amused.

“You’ve been out for a few hours.” Gwen said.

You glanced down at the soft, fluffy bed that you were now laying on, and the white curtain that was obscuring the rest of the room. You must be in the medical wing. Her story checks out.

“That tends to happen when you get your ass handed to you.” Pan said, snickering to himself.

Gwen glared at him, but you were grateful that she couldn’t see your face right now. It was no doubt burning with a volatile mixture of shame and frustration. You were so damn tired of getting your shit pushed in by random guys that have casually mastered several forms of martial arts!

“Don’t be mean, Lost Boy. Neither of us can beat Bloodhound in a straight fight.” she shot back, before turning back to you. “I think you actually managed to surprise him a few times. He said that you ‘Did well for someone without any formal training’.”

Great. Now he’s talking down to you.

(Cont.)
>>
“Oh! And he left some notes for you next to the bed.” Gwen said, handing you a slim folder. “He provided his insights into the fight, listing the things you did that he thought were good and bad.”

You accepted the folder mechanically, staring down at the S.H.I.E.L.D. insignia on its face with an empty feeling in the pit of your stomach. The worst part was, you weren’t even that sore. Instead, a numb feeling was beginning to wash over you.

And now he’s giving you homework. Perfect.

It was all you could do to prevent yourself from burning the folder to a crisp. But as pissed as you were, you knew full well that you could use all the help you can get if you want to improve as a fighter.

When you didn’t say anything in response, Gwen sidled over to your bed and sat at the edge, causing it to sink under her weight. Clearly embarrassed by this, she ultimately chose to stand in the end.

“You know, me and Lost Boy were going to head up to the Helicarrier’s deck. He wants to show us something.” she said cautiously. “I think it might help to get your mind off things.”

You nodded mechanically and threw off the covers. As for the rest of the trip, you couldn’t truly say whether you remembered it, or the words that were exchanged between you or the other two. It all felt like a blur as you struggled to recall the events of your match with Bloodhound.

You found yourself pouring over the contents of the folder as you walked, developing something of an obsession with the idea of finding your weaknesses and eliminating them, one by one. In a real fight, there isn’t a lot of room for error. A single mistake or freak accident is all it would take to kill you.

Your thoughts were only interrupted by the feeling of wind on your face, and the scent of fresh air. You were now walking upon the Helicarrier’s deck, on the opposite side of where you would normally arrive.

The sky was far darker than it had been when you first arrived, and you were grateful that you didn’t have any other appointments to attend to.

You were precariously close to the edge, now. A measly metal railing was the only thing that separated you from a catastrophic fall back to earth. Gwen seemed to understand this very well, since she kept her distance from it, her face taking on a sickly green color.

“Do ya see those stars? Above and below?” Pan asked, pointing up and down as he flew circles around you.

Hanging above you, were a curtain of stars that you normally wouldn’t have seen from the ground. Too much light pollution and uh…real pollution.

And Below, you saw a massive and intricate web of lights. It was the pulse of the city you grew to both love and hate. The city that never slept. The city that could give you everything, and take it all away.

“What about them?” you asked.

“Just watch.” he said with a wink.

(Cont.)
>>
You watched carefully as he flew higher and higher, his fluttering fairy trailing close behind. He brought a hand to his mouth, closed his eyes and puffed his cheeks out as if he were blowing out birthday candles.

And then, something extraordinary happened.

Before your very eyes, the stars in the sky were winking out as if Pan’s breath was powerful enough to extinguish them. He did it with such ease and casual indifference that it really did look like he was blowing out birthday candles!

And all of a sudden, the sky was dark and lifeless. You were surrounded by such a thick, inky blackness that the Helicarrier’s runway lights and floodlights were the only things illuminating the night sky. It simultaneously invoked a feeling of dread, awe and wonder in you.

“What the hell…” you muttered.

But before you could ponder the implications of such an insane feat, the stars were lighting up once more, winking back into existence as if nothing had ever happened. They flared up all across the sky, and you could swear that there were even more than before!

“Look out below!” Pan shouted, making that same blowing motion from before. And it was as if his breath was an unstoppable, rippling force, sweeping across the city below, blowing out any and all lights for but an instant, only for them to come back on a moment later.

It was a passing wave of panic. A brief glimpse of primal fear and uncertainty. A complete and utter display of power.

And it was then that you understood why it was that Hill and Bloodhound would place him on a team meant to specialize in recon. The kid was a floating, magical EMP!

“I am now taking requests.” Pan said, a smug grin on his face. “I can make specific shapes and patterns, too.”

You glanced at Gwen to see if she had any suggestions, but she looked as if she was left breathless by Pan’s party trick.

What will you request?

>”Can you do a spider?”
>”Try to do a moving pattern.”
>”Surprise me.”
>”Wouldn’t it be fatal to blow out a bunch of stars all at once? I’m pretty sure some of those were suns.”
>”How about no. We might cause a car accident, or some other crazy accident by messing around like this.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5434106
>”Wouldn’t it be fatal to blow out a bunch of stars all at once? I’m pretty sure some of those were suns.”
If it's just some illusion
>”Can you do a spider?”
>”Try to do a moving pattern.”
A spider crawling in a web
>>
>>5434106
>”Try to do a moving pattern.”
>"A spider crawling in a web."
>>
>>5434106
Place a hand on Gwens shoulder and say do a spider crawling on a web.
>>
>Does great against villains and other assorted goons
>Struggles when dealing with proper heroes and vigilantes
This is fate trying to steer us away from a life of crime, I just know it.
>>
>>5434106
>>”Can you do a spider?”
>>
>>5434113
We haven't trained in like 100 updates. We need to train more
>>
>>5434129
Agreed
>>5434106
Also >”Try to do a moving pattern.”
>>
>>5434142
Like people said sandman would be perfect and we still have Matt and now bloodhound. Also Gwen would be good bc her super str and stam
>>
>>5434106
>>5434109
Backing this.
>>
>>5434109
>>5434110
>>5434111
>>5434124
>>5434142
>>5434157
>”Can you do a spider?”
>”Try to do a moving pattern.”

Taking these. Writing...
>>
“Can you do a moving pattern? Like a spider crawling up a web?” you requested.

Pan screwed his face up in concentration and leaned back a bit.

“Sounds tricky, but I think I can manage it.” he decided, before bringing his hands to his mouth. “Just need to figure out how I’m gonna…ah! This should do it.”


He leaned forward and whistled through his fingers, moving them up and down sporadically, as if he were playing a flute of some sort. It was such a simple gesture, but you guessed that there were hidden depths to the tricks.

Gwen gasped, and your attention was drawn back to the city, where the lights were now forming a web-like pattern. You watched as a long legged figure crawled out from the corner of the city limits, its limbs dancing around, disappearing and reappearing over and over. It sort of reminded you of those neon signs you’d see on storefronts downtown.

You and Gwen were both laughing in amazement, pulling out your phones and recording the grand light show for later.

“Ooh! Ooh! Do, um…Donkey Kong throwing barrels at Mario!” Gwen called out excitedly.

Lost Boy stopped whistling and gave her a puzzled look.

“The who and the what now?”

Gwen gave him a flat look and showed him a gif on her phone. Pan nodded and glanced at his fairy.

“Gonna need your help for this one Tink.” he concluded.

You heard a gentle, ringing sound from the fairy as she flew closer to his ear. Pan nodded and cupped an ear to listen to whatever it was that she was saying.

“You mean like this?” he asked, showing her another strange hand sign.

Tinkerbell shook from side to side.

“Like this.”

Tinkerbell bounced up and down slightly, but Pan still made a few last minute corrections before attempting the daunting task.

“Alright. Here goes!”

Lost Boy blew, and the landscape lightshow changed once more. Somehow, your troubles and frustrations were pushed out of your mind by the sight of a glowing gorilla tossing barrels at a determined-looking plumber.

The two of you were racking your brains to come up with a new pattern for Pan to imitate, but your little party was suddenly interrupted by the arrival of another figure.

A dark, two dimensional shadow of small stature was jumping up and down on the floor’s flat surface, trying to get your attention with very animated gestures. Its silhouette was identical to that of Peter Pan’s.

“What’s wrong?” he asked.

The shadow placed pointed fingers beside his head, imitating devil horns.

Pan groaned. “Ugh. The hag’s on her way.”

“Wait, are you talking about Director Hill?” Gwen inquired, looking a little worried. “How can you tell?”

“My shadow’s bound to her now. I can feel when she’s nearby.” Pan replied with an expression of deep dislike.

(Cont.)
>>
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“Then I guess it’s time to peel out. Come on!” you said, gesturing for them to follow you.

And just like that, you fled from the Helicarrier’s deck, snickering to yourselves and coming up with ideas for new light patterns to try next time. You had actually managed to forget that you were still holding the folder. It was no longer the object of your ire.

You were determined to surpass all the guys that handed your ass to you. One way or another, you would fight your way to the top.

—--------

You don’t know what time it was that you got back from the Helicarrier, but you did know that you pretty much spent your entire day up there. Cindy was already fast asleep, and Flint was out and about, taking advantage of his seemingly limitless energy stores.

As quietly as you could, you crawled into bed, plugged your phone into its charger and let yourself drift off to sleep.Your last thoughts were of your astonishment at your body's ability to sleep even more, after having been laid out for several hours earlier. Even more surprisingly, the thought didn’t anger you nearly as much as you thought it would.

—-------

The next morning, you were shaken awake by Cindy, who was already dressed and ready for your next cooking class. Realization hit you like a brick as you glanced at the clock, and you practically vaulted out of bed, grabbing whatever clothes you could find in your closet.

Cindy sighed, and signed that she had already made breakfast. You thanked her, hopped in the shower and went through your usual morning rituals before flying into the kitchen. You didn’t have a ton of time to sit and eat. You’d have to grab something to go.

And that meant that you were taking the scenic route today.

Seemingly having read your mind, Cindy showed up behind you with her costume already equipped. You grinned at her, and changed into your own costume. Thankfully, you were already so used to this that it only took a few seconds to undress and stuff your clothes into a gym bag.

“Race you there!” Cindy signed, trying to get a headstart on you.

“Oh, you’re so on!” you called back, running to catch up with her.

The two of you were practically shoving each other as you flew out the door and pulled yourselves into the air.

You had a lot to work on, and even more to worry about these days. But you were going to take it one step at a time.

And maybe—just maybe…you’ll get a chance to stop and appreciate the little things somewhere along the way.

(Cont.)
>>
—---------

((What will you be focusing on over the course of the next few months?))
(Choose 3)

>Training to become a better fighter.
>Searching for the upper limits of your physical capabilities.
>Spending more time around Prowler and Sam. Your tinkering talents were starting to develop a bit.
>Learning how to sew from Black Cat. You’d like to be able to repair your own suits every now and then.
>Learning the ropes from Black Cat. She’s teaching you how to be a better thief.
>Studying under Anastasia’s tutelage. If you wanted to call yourself the “Huntsman”, then it would make sense for you to learn how to actually hunt.
>Memorizing the secret sewer routes and making connection with the Morlocks.
>Making great strides in learning American Sign language.
>Reconnecting with your family.
>Spending more time with a certain someone.(Who?)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5434418
>Training to become a better fighter.
>Reconnecting with your family.
>Memorizing the secret sewer routes and making connection with the Morlocks.
>>
>>5434418
>Training to become a better fighter.
>Memorizing the secret sewer routes and making connection with the Morlocks.
>Reconnecting with your family, and introduce Cindy too
>>
>>5434418
>Training to become a better fighter.
>Studying under Anastasia’s tutelage. If you wanted to call yourself the “Huntsman”, then it would make sense for you to learn how to actually hunt.
>Memorizing the secret sewer routes and making connection with the Morlocks.
>>
>>5434418
Training to become a better fighter.
>Searching for the upper limits of your physical capabilities.Studying under Anastasia’s tutelage. If you wanted to call yourself the “Huntsman”, then it would make sense for you to learn how to actually hunt.
>>
>>5434418
>>Training to become a better fighter.
>Spending more time around Prowler and Sam. Your tinkering talents were starting to develop a bit.
>Learning the ropes from Black Cat. She’s teaching you how to be a better thief.
>>
>>5434418
>Training to become a better fighter.
>Making great strides in learning American Sign language.
>Spending more time around Prowler and Sam. Your tinkering talents were starting to develop a bit.
>>
>>5434418
>>Training to become a better fighter.
>Learning the ropes from Black Cat. She’s teaching you how to be a better thief.
>Reconnecting with your family.
>>
>>5434418
>>Learning how to sew from Black Cat. You’d like to be able to repair your own suits every now and then.
>Making great strides in learning American Sign language.
>Memorizing the secret sewer routes and making connection with the Morlocks.
>>
>>5434418
>Training to become a better fighter.
>Making great strides in learning American Sign language.
>Spending more time around Prowler and Sam. Your tinkering talents were starting to develop a bit.
>>
Hey, anons. My schedule today is gonna be crazy packed. So much so that I've only slept for roughly 2 hours. I have no idea when I'll have an opportunity to write an update, but I hope it'll be sometime later this evening.
>>
>>5435464
to keep the content creation machine running, sometimes it needs to be maintained.
take care of yourself, as always
>>
>>5435559
Thanks! I'm finally back home, but I'm bone tired and in dire need of a nap. In the meantime, I'll tally the votes.

>>5434419
>>5434421
>>5434434
>>5434506
>>5434604
>>5434649
>>5434750
>>5434865
>>5435278
So here, we have some very clear winners. Such as:

>Training to become a better fighter.
and
>Memorizing the secret sewer routes and making connection with the Morlocks.

As for the third vote, I do believe that it's still undecided.

We have:

>Spending more time around Prowler and Sam. Your tinkering talents were starting to develop a bit.
With 3 votes

>Making great strides in learning American Sign language.
With 3 votes

>Reconnecting with your family.
With 3 votes

Let me know if any of you wish to change your votes, or debate the reason why you believe your vote should win.

And while we wait for that to conclude(or for me to take a well deserved nap), we should talk about who you want to instruct Ben in the ways of martial arts. It won't make a terribly huge difference now(outside of narrative and social implications), but it will matter in the future, where you will have to commit to a combat style/martial art to master.

>Daredevil
>Callisto
>Anastasia
>Bloodhound
>All of the above! You're taking lessons and pointers from anyone that's willing to teach you.
>Write-in.
>>
>>5435879
>>Callisto
I'll swap >>5434604 the black cat vote to
>Making great strides in learning American Sign language.
>>
>>5435879
Ana
>>
>>5435879
>All of the above! You're taking lessons and pointers from anyone that's willing to teach you.
>Ask Ana the specifics of our relationship while at it.
>>
>>5435879
>Callisto
I like the Morlocks.
>>
>>5435879
>Bloodhound
>>
>>5435879
>Callisto
Octopi and squids have bendy tentacles to ensnare prey. Spiders have bendy webs to ensnare prey.
>>
>>5435881
+1
>>
>>5435879
>>5435881
>>5435882
>>5435885
>>5435899
>>5435902
>>5435974
>>5435980
>Callisto
>Making great strides in learning American Sign language.

Got it! Gonns start writing!
>>
>4 Months Later
>Reputation: Menace
>Year One

A blur of green tendrils flew out from every direction. You leap into the air, contorting your body in all sorts of inventive ways, allowing you to avoid each and every lash by a severely narrow margin. Your spider sense was cranked up to max, and you were fully aware of your surroundings. That was the only reason that you were prepared for her next attack.

Suddenly, the tendrils shot out in whipping, slashing patterns, forcing you to kick off the ground to readjust your position in the air. You flipped, somersaulted and dove through the lightning fast attacks as if this were a rehearsed fight.

And when you spotted a gap between her attacks, you swooped down on her like a bird of prey.

In the blink of an eye, you were right up in Callisto’s face, throwing a series of well placed punches aimed at her. Just as quickly, Callisto reeled in her tentacles and coiled them around one another, creating two thick, braided, cable-like protrusions to defend herself with.

She whipped them around her body, blocking your attacks and attempting to trip you up. You were moving automatically, leaning into your senses and surrendering yourself to the strange sensation that warned you of incoming danger.

Unfortunately, these very same senses failed to notify you of the tendril that coiled itself around your leg. Either that, or you just didn’t respond to it in time.

It didn’t matter, because you were already being flung aside by the tentacle, rolling and flipping to recover from your teacher’s sneak attack.

All of a sudden, your momentum was stopped dead by a pair of cold, clammy hands on your back and shoulders. You shuddered out of reflex.

“Careful there…pretty thing.” said a slightly warbly and rasping voice. You looked up to see the very tall figure of “The Deep One” looming over you with her long, wet, tangled mop of black hair tickling your face. Her slitted, serpentine eyes were crinkled at the corners, leading you to believe that she was hiding a large, toothy grin behind that oxygen mask of hers.

“Thanks, Deep.” you said, pulling yourself away from her cold grasp and barely suppressing a shudder. It was no secret that the Deep One had a thing for you. She didn’t make much of an effort to hide it, and took every opportunity to make a pass at you whenever you were around her.

She wiggled her eyebrows, and her gills fluttered open and shut. You weren’t sure what to make of that gesture.

“You’re getting better.” Glass observed, striding over to stand beside the tall woman. “I’m surprised that you managed to avoid all those whips without even a scratch.”

“I’ve had a lot of practice.” you said with a shrug, remembering all the times that your instructor mercilessly lashed your body.
>>
File: Spoiler Image (1.23 MB, 1163x1280)
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1.23 MB PNG
“A little more wouldn’t hurt.” said Callisto, reshaping her arms into human ones and folding them over her chest. “But, Glass is right. You’re not flailing your arms around like you were when we first met.”

>You are now an “Experienced Fighter”! Just short of mastering a martial art, you are a force to be reckoned with. Lesser fighters without formal training can’t even touch you!

Despite her casual insults, you could tell that everyone was impressed with your progress. You were already a decent brawler before you started getting lessons from the sewer queen, but now, you thought that you would have a more than decent chance of keeping up with more experienced fighters. You absently wondered what it would be like to fight Matt and Bloodhound as you were now.

“When am I getting my turn?” asked a rowdy teen with a flaming skull for a head.

“Maybe when you can stop setting shit on fire, Robbie.” Callisto said coldly.

Robbie was the newest addition to the Morlock community. He and Glass had been friends beforehand, and they met on the road while Glass was making his return trip.

He apparently had the ability to reshape his skeleton in the form of a creature that’s gone extinct. Although, you’ve heard that larger transformations take a lot out of him, and he can only maintain them for brief periods of time.

“Yeah. Like my vegetable patch!” shouted a teenage girl with antlers and long black hair.

Oh yeah, and this was Nature Girl. Another new addition to the Morlock community. She was apparently kicked out of Xavier’s for some less than ideal behavioral issues, but Callisto’s managed to keep her on a tight leash while she’s been here.

She’s kind of annoying, but you can more or less acknowledge that the progress of your fairy flower garden is more or less attributed to her and Ethel’s efforts.

Robbie rolled his glowing eyes and shrugged his shoulders. “Sorry, babe. Can’t help it if I’m…hot!”

And with that last word, the flames dancing across Robbie’s skull flared up, forcing Nature Girl to take a few steps back. She was glaring daggers at him, and you had the distinct feeling that a fight might break out.

Just then, your phone’s alarm went off, drawing everyone’s attention to you. Grateful for the distraction, you pulled it out of your belt pouch and opened the screen.

It was almost time for you to meet up with Cindy. You still had time for a quick change and a shower if you hurried.

With all the tension gone, Robbie scoffed and walked back over to the Entertainment Center, where a group of Morlocks were busy playing a party game on the big screen.

(Cont.)
>>
Thanks to you, the dreary sewer tunnels now resembled a dreary, gothic man-cave. The air was cleaner, the water was drinkable, and they had a sufficient source of food from their vegetable gardens. The entertainment system was more or less a plus, since it kept some of the more idle Morlocks busy in their downtime.

As you watched Robbie’s retreating back, you saw some of the other mutants waving you over to come play with them. You waved them off by saying that you had an appointment to keep, causing them to groan and grumble in disappointment.

During your time here, you’ve become something of a celebrity. Not in the sense that these guys are worshiping you like a god, but in a way that leaves no doubt in your mind as to your reputation around these parts.

Your presence was unconsciously associated with new movies, new games, fresh food, and additional maintenance to their new amenities.

Sure, there were a few Morlocks that had left their little community, clearly unhappy with Callisto’s decision to associate with a “topsider”, but the majority of them thankfully decided to stay.

“Gotta go.” you said. “Thanks for the lesson.”

Callisto nodded her understanding. “Know how to find your way back?”

You grinned at her. “Who do you think I am?”

She returned your grin with a smirk and turned away from you. “‘Til next time.” she said, raising a hand as if to dismiss you.

After saying your goodbyes, you took off down the adjoining tunnel, running for the nearest exit. Your time down here has also given you a pretty good idea of how this tunnel system works. By now, you’re pretty sure that you could navigate it with your eyes closed. It’s made for plenty of clean getaways in the past, and you’re excited to test out its potential as a smuggling route in the future.

And let’s not forget the new additions to the Morlock community. All of them were unique in their own way, with an assortment of abilities that would undoubtedly come in handy during a job.

Are you considering hiring any of them sometime in the future?

>The Deep One. She’s big, strong, and can tear people to shreds with her sharp claws.
>Robbie Reyes. He’s a bit impulsive, but his ability could be insanely useful if handled correctly.
>Nature Girl. She’s a preachy nag, but a powerful mutant.
>Not really. They’re nice to hang out with, but they’re too unprofessional for your tastes.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5436187
>Not really. They’re nice to hang out with, but they’re too unprofessional for your tastes.
These guys could become professionals, but they’re not right now.
>>
>>5436187
>The Deep One. She’s big, strong, and can tear people to shreds with her sharp claws.
She's a good replacement for Flint if we need to do something involving water
>>
>>5436187
>>5436220
+1, sound logic to me. I don’t think we’d need her often, but I treat the Morlock recruits as a form of work sponsorship anyway.

Wonder if they’ll ever hire us to advise a team of theirs on a heist/infiltration mission instead?
>>
>>5436187
>The Deep One. She’s big, strong, and can tear people to shreds with her sharp claws.
big scaly girl a cute
Just caught up on this Scorekeeper, I just love these characters (can't wait to meet Young Marissa Tomei as May though) also, I'd like to add reinforcements to our striking surfaces like the suit in the new Spider Man game except somehow in keeping with our aesthetic
>>
>>5436187
>The Deep One. She’s big, strong, and can tear people to shreds with her sharp claws.
You never know when we might need some aquatic expertise.
>>
>>5436220
>>5436242
>>5436255
>>5436275
>The Deep One. She’s big, strong, and can tear people to shreds with her sharp claws.

Taking these. Writing...

>>5436255
Glad to hear it! I always wonder whether I'm doing some of these characters justice. And what exactly do you mean by "striking surfaces"? Are you talking about additional armor?
>>
>>5436343
A "striking surface" generally refers to any area that's meant to impact other objects.
On a suit, it might consist of the knuckles of the hand, the elbows, the knees, the shins, etc...
Even the forehead if you know how to do a proper headbutt.
>>
>>5436350
Gotcha. That's what I thought at first, but I just wanted to be sure. Further options for suit modification will be available to you all. Especially now that Prowler has just about finished his research on the experimental energy cells.
>>
On the note of >>5435974, I wonder if we can make our own style variation where we use webs with our strikes. Go for a grapple and use our webs to extend our reach slightly and prevent people from dodging. We can also incorporate a kick-heavy style to use webs with our hands and kicks to strike so we can twist them into our blows for additional pain.

Armor up our suit against explosions, and we can even web them while throwing punches. It’d normally be awkward to web and punch since the web limits our mobility too and likely cushions the strike zone for that hand, but an explosive punch can more than offset that.
>>
>>5436368
Remember that striking style we thought of in one of the earlier threads?
Firecracker Style!
The gist being that we would weave explosions into our striking patterns to turn even basic combinations into rapid fire knockout blows.
I'm pretty sure we already toyed around with the idea and confirmed that we could do it in the first place, but we've yet to really explore just what we could do when utilizing those principles.
At least not enough to make a style out of it just yet, hence why I say we make it one of our long term goals.
>>
The Deep One seemed like a good candidate, if any. If there’s ever a job that involves water, then you’ll have some use for her. So long as she can keep things professional and keep it in her pants when you’re out in the field, then there shouldn’t be any problems.

You would just have to get used to that hungry, possessive look in her eye when she looked at you. No biggie.

You’d pass the idea her way when you came back down to check on the fairy flower harvest. You would’ve done it today if you weren’t so short on time.

Oh, well. Strange and his wizard buddies will just have to wait for a little while longer.

—---------

After a quick stop home, a brief shower and a change of clothes, you headed back out to meet Cindy at Brooklyn Visions Academy. She should already be there waiting for you.

Maybe you should’ve tried to hire White Rabbit as your secretary. She would never let you this late. It would just eat her up inside.

—----------

Almost half an hour later, you were back on the ground and changed into your finest business casual attire. It didn’t take you very long to find Cindy. Among the parents and kids entering and leaving the school, she was one of the only ones standing by herself at the entrance.

She had gotten bigger since the two of you first met. And slightly more muscular too. She was so excited when she learned that she was approaching an age where it was okay for her to do muscle training without impeding her growth.

You’d have to start planning her birthday party sometime soon. It was absolutely astounding how quickly kids grew up when you weren’t looking.

Her eyes scanned the crowd, no doubt searching for you. You waved at her to get her attention, and she waved back, leaning to one side in order to see over the crowd.

“Hey! Sorry I’m late.” you said, running a hand through your hair. “Got a bit held up with the people downstairs.”

“More training?” she signed.

“Yeah. They all said that I’ve been getting better.” you signed back enthusiastically.

“Good enough to spar with me?” she asked, a teasing grin on her face.

“I’m not ashamed to admit that you might possibly be able to kick my ass.” you signed. “But at least I don’t have to say it out loud anymore.”

Cindy snickered, tapped her watch, and turned wrist to show you.

“Right. We should get going.” you said, putting a hand on her shoulder and leading her past the main gate.

It took a bit of time, but you really doubled down and learned as much as you could about American Sign Language in order to communicate with Cindy. Those efforts didn’t go unnoticed, and the two of you have become even closer as a result. It was sort of fun to trade secret messages right in front of people. Flint was just about the only other person within the Desperados that could possibly intercept your messages, and sometimes you would insult him just to get a rise out of him.

(Cont.)
>>
—--------

The secret messages exchanged between you didn’t stop at the entrance. During your tour of the school, you and Cindy were constantly making silent jokes about the dull delivery of the guide, and the pretentious air of the place. There were a ton of rich kids socializing with one another, but almost none of them were interacting with Cindy.

As soon as they realized that communicating with her required more than the absolute bare minimum of effort, they quickly gave up on that venture. It was part of the reason that the two of you were sticking so close together. You didn’t miss that disappointed look in her eye when the various cliques decided that she wasn’t worth befriending.

It absolutely tore you up inside that you couldn’t do anything about it. Not yet, at least.

The Silvertongue was still alive, and Cindy didn’t want to be treated differently because of her disability. All you could do now was support her through whatever the new school year would bring.

Suddenly, all thoughts of Cindy and magical beasts were halted by the sight of a familiar Asian girl taking a different tour. She hadn’t seen you yet, and you don’t think she’d be able to recognize you even if she did.

Was that…Saya Ishii! Silvermane’s kid! What’s she doing here? Is she trying to enroll here?

A tug on your sleeve broke you out of your reverie. Cindy was giving you a concerned look.

“Sorry, I thought I saw someone that I knew.” you said, glancing around for the tour guide. The two of you were some of the only ones in this hallway now. The tour guide and everyone else seems to have left you behind.

“Come on. Let’s catch up with-”

“You’re gonna love it here, Miles. This school has everything you could possibly need.” said a painfully familiar voice.

You froze where you stood. Was that…?


“And,” the man continued. “You get to leave your parents’ house ahead of time. Most people have to wait until they’re 18 to do that!”

Without thinking, you rushed towards the source of the voice. Cindy chased after you, a look of understanding forming on her face.

The two of you rounded the corner and froze. The other two figures did the same. Standing before you was an adult black man, and a younger black boy who seemed to be closer to Cindy’s age.

The boy stared at all for you in turn, clearly perplexed by this reaction.

Your eyes narrowed. “...Prowler?”

He stared at you in disbelief. And before he could stop himself, he muttered “Huntsman…?”

He seemed to regret it as soon as he said it.

“Ah, shit!” the two of you said simultaneously.

Cindy seemed very amused by all this, while the other boy’s confusion was mounting.

“Uncle Hob?” the boy said.

Prowler grimaced and rubbed the back of his neck. “If your mother asks, you didn’t hear that.” he said swiftly.

The boy smiled slightly. “Hear what?”

(Cont.)
>>
Prowler patted him on the back and turned to you with the sort of look that two men gave each other when they knew that there was something of grave importance to discuss.

—----------

Several minutes later, you and Prowler were standing together, watching Cindy and Prowler’s nephew, Miles, explore the school together. The conversations were pretty one-sided, but you were pleasantly surprised at Miles’ willingness to put effort into communicating with her.

A heavy silence hung between the two of you, neither of you willing to breach it at first. Your ally and fellow team member wore close-cropped hair, a goatee and a very severe expression. He looked like a military man or a drill instructor.

How will you break the ice?

>”That's a nice kid you’ve got there. Is he coming here too?”
>”Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”
>”I didn’t mean to invade your privacy, or personal life, or whatever. Believe me, I didn’t want this any more than you did.”
>”You know it’s really not a big deal if we know each other’s secret identities. It’s not like either of us are gonna betray the other. Right?”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5436429
>>”That's a nice kid you’ve got there. Is he coming here too?”
>”Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”
He did it guys, he did the thing!
>>
>>5436429
Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”

>”You know it’s really not a big deal if we know each other’s secret identities. It’s not like either of us are gonna betray the other. Right?”
>>
>>5436429
>”Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”
>"What did you tell your family you do for a living? I don't want to get you busted. We're work friends, details we can work out in less time pressing times."
>>
>>5436429
>”Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”
>”That's a nice kid you’ve got there. Is he coming here too?”
>"See you at work later."
>>
>>5436429
>”That's a nice kid you’ve got there. Is he coming here too?”
>”Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”
Didn’t think this would become canon when I wrote that little greentext, but here we are.
>>
>>5436429
>”That's a nice kid you’ve got there. Is he coming here too?”
>”Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”
>”See you at work later.”
>Some other things to mix in:
>”We’ve respected the mask for a while, but it looks like that ship has sailed. Since it has, I’ll trust you to look out for Cindy if you’ll trust me to look after Miles. As friends of a family, at least.”
>”He’s the only one that’s really tried connecting with Cindy. If I don’t have the chance to tell him I saw and appreciated it without Cindy hearing, let him know for me.”
>>
>>5436429
>”Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”
I'd ask why he's here and not Miles' father, but I think that'd be a little much to ask right now.
>>
>>5436436
>>5436440
>>5436442
>>5436450
>>5436468
>>5436479
>>5436480
>”Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker. And you?”
>”That's a nice kid you’ve got there. Is he coming here too?”

Taking these. Writing...

>>5436468
I try not to be too rigid in my planning, and I wasn't terribly attached to the plotline that I had planned for when Miles eventually showed up. If it seems fun, then I'm okay with shaking things up. I feel like flexibility is an important quality to have as a QM.

>>5436480
Jeff's a cop, Rio's a nurse and they live in Brooklyn. Duty calls!

>>5436479
Nice write-in. Feel free to hold onto that sentiment and suggest it later
>>
>>5436545
These last 2 updates or so were very wholesome
>>
“Ben Parker. My name’s Ben Parker.” you blurted out. “You?”

Prowler breathed out through his nose and nodded slowly. “Hobart Brown.” he said without looking at you. “Most people call me Hobbie.”

“Ah. I don’t think I’ve ever met a ‘Hobart’ before.”

“Yeah, well not many people have.” he said with an expression that could almost be described as a rueful half smile.

Another heavy silence fell between you, and you found yourself searching for another topic to latch onto. Your gaze fell on Miles, who was looking at a map of the campus with Cindy.

“That’s a nice kid you’ve got there. Is he coming here too?”

“I hope so.” Hobbie said. “Miles is a smart kid. He deserves better than what I got.”

“I don’t know. You’re not doing too bad.”

Hobbie smirked. “Yeah, but I’m not exactly a model citizen. So long as I can watch him grow up, happy and successful, I don’t care about anything else.”

You were momentarily at a loss for words. For words so warm and human to come from a face that hides behind a cold, scrutinizing mask; it was such a major shock to your system.

“Same here.” you added, watching Cindy laugh a breathless laugh. “Even though she’s growing up to become some sort of monster slaying, crime-fighting ninja, all I want for her is to be happy.”

“Girls are a bit harder than boys. And she’s already hitting puberty.” he said, nodding at her. “Just be prepared to catch some serious grief in the near future.”

You chuckled at Prowler’s silly notion of Cindy not wanting to hang out with you, but had otherwise refused to comment on the matter.

You and Hobbie spent the next few minutes sharing idle conversation, cracking wise, and sending out the occasional barb. Both of you were still a bit wary of the other, and you felt as if you were stress-testing the new state of your relationship, neither sure of how they would proceed from here.

Later on, when you were watching Miles and Cindy asking questions about the various programs available to the school’s students. Ironically, it looked like Cindy was doing most of the communicating. This particular faculty member seemed to know sign language. Even now, Cindy was signing very enthusiastically at the older woman.

“What do we do about Cat?” Prowler asked, so suddenly and abruptly after a long silence that it momentarily left you speechless.

Your attention was still on Saya, who was sticking very close to the Engineering Department guide, and listening with rapt attention.

(Cont.)
>>
What will you say?

>”We should tell her. It’d be kind of unfair to leave her in the dark about this.”
>”How do you feel about that? I don’t want to do or say anything that you’re not cool with.”
>”We don’t have to do anything. She knows enough as it is. No need to put ourselves at risk even further.”
>”She’s a smart girl. Let’s let her figure it out for herself.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5436673
>>”She’s a smart girl. Let’s let her figure it out for herself.”
>>
>>5436673
>”How do you feel about that? I don’t want to do or say anything that you’re not cool with.”
>”We should tell her. It’d be kind of unfair to leave her in the dark about this.”
I sure hope Silvermane's rivals don't invade the school to take Saya hostage when he returns to the top. They would get a beating from her friend.
>>
>>5436677
+1
>>
>>5436673
>”How do you feel about that? I don’t want to do or say anything that you’re not cool with.”
>”At the end of the day, this whole thing was an accident. We didn’t plan it, so we’re not really obligated to go sharing our personal information if we don’t want to. Not that I don’t trust Cat, but still.”
>>
>>5436673
>”How does telling her we unmasked each other through chance, but now we’ve formed the boys club. If she wants in, she’ll have to arrange for the same situation.”
It’ll be nice to have one over Felicia for all the teasing she does. We’re also being honest that the power dynamics changed, but welcoming her to correct it if she’s determined to set us all on an equal footing. Which I’m all for, but having her work for it is more amusing.
>>
>>5436692
Oh, that’s good. Changing my vote to this.
>>
>>5436692
Also changing my vote
>>
>>5436673
>”She’s a smart girl. Let’s let her figure it out for herself.”
>>
File: Spoiler Image (359 KB, 900x1841)
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>>5436673
>”How do you feel about that? I don’t want to do or say anything that you’re not cool with.”
>”We don’t have to do anything. She knows enough as it is. No need to put ourselves at risk even further.”
Yeah, I'd prefer to not make a huge deal out of this, I also had an idea based on something from an episode of The Finder basically we start a business and in the paperwork we put in a clause that if any of us go to jail the others have the ability to split their portion of the business amongst themselves (it makes it so no one can be forced to testify against eachother because it gives the others a reason to falsely testify against eachother), we don't even have to actually strip the company from eachother when people go to jail just hold an "inconclusive company board meeting"
Also
>Inb4 Maybelle Reilly
>>
>>5436673
How do you feel about that? I don’t want to do or say anything that you’re not cool with.”
Also let us eavesdrop on this girl real quick
>>
>>5436692
+1
>>
>>5436673
>write in
“We don’t have to do anything really, we keep it the same as it has been. Keep up the masks at work and we can just be different people who have kids to look out for.”
>>
>>5436673
>>”We should tell her. It’d be kind of unfair to leave her in the dark about this.”
>>”How do you feel about that? I don’t want to do or say anything that you’re not cool with.”
>>
>>5436677
>>5436692
>>5436697
>>5436698
>>5436706
>>5436718
>>5436751
>>5437004
>”How does telling her we unmasked each other through chance, but now we’ve formed the boys club. If she wants in, she’ll have to arrange for the same situation.”

Taking these. Writing...

>>5436613
Sometimes it's nice to just sit back and appreciate the little things.
>>
“How does telling her that we unmasked each other by chance change anything?” you said with a shrug. “We’ve more or less formed the ‘Boy’s Club’, with you, me and Flint. If she wants in, she’ll have to arrange for the same situation.”

A satisfied grin grew on Hobbie’s face, then.

“How do you feel about that? I don’t want to do or say anything that you’re not cool with.” you quickly added.

“At this point, it’s bound to come out eventually. Let her work for it.” he decided.

The two of you sealed the pact with a nod of solidarity and a firm handshake. You didn’t particularly see a reason for why the team’s dynamic should change in any meaningfully dramatic way, but you couldn’t deny that having someone other than Flint and Cindy know your secret identity was a bit of an unwelcome change.

Thankfully you were on good terms with everyone on your team. Felicia finding out wouldn’t be a huge loss. But you couldn’t pass up a perfectly good opportunity to mess with her a bit. She’s always teasing you with a smug grin on her face, and you think a little payback is long overdue.

—-------

The tour proceeded with nothing else of interest occurring. Miles and Cindy had exchanged numbers, and were actively texting one another, despite the fact that they hadn’t left each other’s company yet.

At some point, you’d lost sight of Saya, and hadn’t been able to find her again for the remainder of your time there. You tried not to let the worry show on your face. You weren’t sure if Prowler had spotted her or not, but you didn’t need him getting all paranoid in public.

You’d just have to bring this up in private later.

—------

Once both kids were satisfied with what they’d seen, the four of you said your goodbyes and went your separate ways. Cindy seemed to figure out what was going on without you telling her. She had recognized Prowler’s voice as well.

To your great relief, she was feeling far more optimistic about the school now that she’d made a friend. You were going to have to ask Prowler to buy his nephew something nice when he got home.

That being said, what did you plan to do when you got home?

>Head down to the sewers and check on the fairy flower harvest.
>Meet up with Madame Web and Julia to discuss the Spider Totem investigation.
>Wait for Prowler to get back so that the two of you can test out the new energy cells.
>Call up Marc and see if they’ve made any progress on researching the Silvertongue.
>Set up an appointment with one of Silvermane’s contacts.(The Owl/Hammerhead/Count Nefaria)
>Spend time with someone.(Who?)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5437113
>Talk to Cindy about Saya
neither I nor I think should Ben claim to know how best to approach this.
Cindy has plans to protect the travelers of the night, and Saya might turn out to follow Silvermanes footsteps, even inherit the empire
Cindy could befriend Saya turn her to the good side, or later have a powerful... "the devil you know" sort of thing. Or she could decide to avoid her and not risk her identity being known when they do come to odds against one another in the future.
Thing is, Cindy deserves to know and have a say in the matter. Maybe if she asks our (Ben's) opinion, we (the players) can have a seperate vote together on how we (Ben) should advice her to approach the situation.
>>
>>5437113
>Meet up with Madame Web and Julia to discuss the Spider Totem investigation.
>>
>>5437113
>Talk to Cindy about Saya
>And the Miles kid too
>>
>>5437113
backing >>5437119 and >>5437126
>>
>>5437113
Call up Marc and see if they’ve made any progress on researching the Silvertongue.

Doesn't it eventually kill the host? Been a bit since we bothered with it.
>>
>>5437113
>>Head down to the sewers and check on the fairy flower harvest.
>>
>>5437119
+1
>>
>>5437119
>>5437126
>>5437131
>>5437226
>Talk to Cindy about Saya
>And the Miles kid too

Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: SayaIshii.jpg (53 KB, 500x500)
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53 KB JPG
You paused for a moment and pushed your plans for the future aside. Saya’s presence at Visions still lingered in your mind. And if there was any possibility of her and Cindy attending the same school, you figured that she had a right to the truth.

And so, you told her everything. About Saya’s identity, her relationship to Silvermane, and eventually, your connection to both. Unsurprisingly, Cindy remained silent the entire time. She didn’t make a single hand gesture or sign that might have communicated what was going through her mind at the time.

After a few minutes of dreadful silence, she began signing.

“It would probably be best if I avoided her for a while.” she decided. “Thanks for the heads up.”

“You could probably try becoming friends with her, or something.” you said hopefully. “Who knows? Maybe you can try and turn her away from the dark side.”

Cindy gave you a skeptical look and made the hand sign for “doubt”.

“She’s the daughter of a major crime boss. She’s probably being groomed to take his place as we speak.” she argued. “My word means nothing against her father’s. A promise of power is far more tempting than what I can offer.”

What will you say?

>”Just because she’s taking over as head of the family doesn’t mean that the two of you can’t get along.”
>"We don't know if she's next in line to take over after Silvermane, and we don't know if she even wants to. Maybe I can ask him about it later."
>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
>”You have a point there. It’d probably be better if you kept your head down and stayed off her radar.”
>”What would Khonshu want you to do?”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5437281
>>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
>>
>>5437281
>”Just because she’s taking over as head of the family doesn’t mean that the two of you can’t get along.”
>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
>"To be fair, Silvio is not that bad as far as crime bosses go, and I'm not exactly a saint either."
>>
>>5437281
>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
>>
>>5437281
>"We don't know if she's next in line to take over after Silvermane, and we don't know if she even wants to. Maybe I can ask him about it later."
>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
>>
>>5437281
>"promise of power... don't I know that, but..."
>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
>"I have a code of ethics mostly because I still want to be able to look into the eyes of those people and not be ashamed of myself."
>"You and I, we both know, there's dark side and then there's darker side. There's stuff even crime bosses shouldn't allow in their territory."
>>
>>5437299
+1
>>
>>5437281
Just because she’s taking over as head of the family doesn’t mean that the two of you can’t get along.”
>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
>>
>>5437281

>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
Maybe someone else said this better, but I’m too tired to properly think it through.
>”We have power too, but that doesn’t mean we don’t care about each other.”
>”Her life won’t be any simpler than yours, so she’ll be pulled in plenty of directions. You could be a push at the right time for other pieces to fall in place.”
>Ultimately, you may decide she’s a bi- uh, tar- er, annoying. If you don’t like her personally, you can just prepare to take her down later. But don’t make enemies until you need to. It gives them less time to prepare.”
>>
>>5437281
>>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”
>>
>>5437281
>Write-in.

>"Well yeah your allowance isn't that high...er, wait."
>"A promise of power is more tempting that what you can offer? That's not true, there are a lot of things people value more than power. Even criminals. Tombstone handed over his whole empire to the Goblin for his daughter's life and then burned it all down in revenge when he found he was the culprit."
>"Wait, wait, wait, are you making ME lecture YOU about heroism? Is this opposite day? Is this what they are teaching you in school? It hasn't even been one day!
>"But seriously, prioritizing your safety is completely fine and you cant save people from their own choices."
Learning to walk away is a lesson all on it's own

Are we sure we want to set Cindy on trying to redeem/save Saya when at the same time we are pretty much propping up Silvermane? I mean Cindy is right, she is being groomed to inherit the empire, so if Cindy convinces her that crime-is-bad-actually then who is Silvermane going to leave the empire to? I just don't want to get into the situation that we are working in cross purposes with our own daughter.
>>
>>5437359
1+
>>
>>5437281
>>5437359
I’ll add this to my vote (>>5437319).

I know she’ll respond to the Tombstone line with a variant of “You really going to equate me being a friend to a guy losing his daughter?” but that dovetails into the “right push, right time” suggestion I made.

As for working against Cindy, we could also work him to keep his operations cleaner and/or smaller. Spin it as keeping his family safer by making them a nimbler target in the underworld. Quality over quantity.

It still implies Cindy actually tries to befriend Saya. And that they get along, which may not be the case. I’ll trust her to make a judgement call and learn from it later.
>>
>>5437359
>>5437721
it's not to turn her from crime explicitly to create a power vacuum, but more to place an ally on the throne who would do less bad than an alternative

(I'm that guy >>5437285)
>>
>>5437926
>(I'm that guy >>5437285 )
I'm not, I'm this guy >>5437299
phoneposting...
>>
>>5437947
I was worried for a second.
>>
>>5437282
>>5437285
>>5437286
>>5437292
>>5437299
>>5437308
>>5437310
>>5437319
>>5437335
>>5437359
>>5437410
>>5437721
>>5437926
>"Well yeah your allowance isn't that high...er, wait."
>"A promise of power is more tempting that what you can offer? That's not true, there are a lot of things people value more than power. Even criminals. Tombstone handed over his whole empire to the Goblin for his daughter's life and then burned it all down in revenge when he found he was the culprit."
>"Wait, wait, wait, are you making ME lecture YOU about heroism? Is this opposite day? Is this what they are teaching you in school? It hasn't even been one day!
>"But seriously, prioritizing your safety is completely fine and you cant save people from their own choices."
>”You’ll never know unless you try. The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions.”

Taking these. Writing...

Also, I'm seeing some nice write-ins here, anons. Keep it up!
>>
>>5437998
>that moment of existential terror when you think someone else is you
Yeah, a second of worry sounds appropriate.
>>5437926
Fair enough on the “lesser evil” tack. I’m not sure if I want to go down that road with Cindy or have her come to that conclusion herself. Letting villains do their business is never an easy thing for heroes to swallow, especially ones with tragic backstories.

I think she’ll learn either way. It’ll just be a difference of whether she learns now or later that her actions can make things worse in the long run even if she does a good thing.
>>
>>5438033
Just as a thought/idea, can we get Latverian citizenship (or even some kind of low nobility if DOOM is willing to do what Scotland and Sealand did), I just like the idea of Ben being part of some kind of Villainous Nation in order to make arresting him a massive clusterfuck of jurisdictions...or just as a shitpost to make people call him Sir Huntsman, of the New York Huntsmen
Unless there's some other Micronations in Marvel we can fuck with
>>
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“Well yeah, your allowance isn’t that high…er, wait.”

You paused to look at her.

“‘A promise of power is more tempting than what you can offer?’ That’s not true. There are a lot of things people value more than power. Even criminals.” you continued. “Tombstone handed over his whole empire to the Goblin in exchange for his daughter’s life, and then burned it all down out of revenge when he found out that he was the culprit.”

Cindy looked thoughtful for a moment.

“Wait, wait, wait…are you seriously making ME lecture YOU about heroism? Is today opposite day, or something? Is this what they’re teaching you in school? It hasn’t even been a day, yet!” you smugly exclaimed.

Cindy just waved you off without turning to look at you.

“But seriously,” you said, persisting in your argument. “Prioritizing your own safety is completely fine, and you can’t save people from their own choices.”

“That’s just it.” Cindy signed. “She doesn’t know anything about me yet. If I decide to do this, then I only have 4 years to prevent her from becoming a monster. And that’s if she even wants to be around me.”

“You’ll never know unless you try.” you reasoned. “The opinion of people you care about can end up leading you to make life-altering decisions. All it takes is a push at the right time, and all the pieces could fall into place.”


Cindy’s face took on a pensive expression, and she remained silent for almost an entire minute.

Finally, she sighed and signed “I’ll think about it. There’s no guarantee that she’s really going there, anyway.”

But despite her words, she still looked troubled. Seeing as how she was distracted, you used this opportunity to bring up a more sensitive topic that had been weighing on your mind.

“So…this 'Miles', boy.” you said slowly.

Cindy half turned her head to acknowledge you, but she still seemed to be staring off into space.

What will you say?

>”We don’t have to have ‘The Talk’, do we? If so, then I’m pretty sure I can get Cat to do that for me.”
>"What do you think of him?"
>”You made your first friend before the term even started. You also seemed to be hitting it off with that student tour guide that knew sign language.”
>”This goes without saying, but try not to let anything slip about us. I doubt Prowler wants his nephew to learn what he does for a living.”
>”You know what? Forget it. We’ll talk about it later.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5438078
>”You made your first friend before the term even started. You also seemed to be hitting it off with that student tour guide that knew sign language.”

Encourage her, this is probably her first real experience with people around her age, and I want to foster a good drive for her to get along. It’s really about time she gets to live as a kid.
>>
>>5438078
>"What do you think of him?"
>”You made your first friend before the term even started. You also seemed to be hitting it off with that student tour guide that knew sign language.”
>"He seemed to be a good kid, and I trust your judgment. Keep an eye on him will you? It seems this super business keep spilling to family and friends, so he might end up getting on trouble. Send a message to either me or Prowler if anything happens, ok?"
>>
>>5438087
>Ditto
>>5438078
Cindy's a good girl, I really love us encouraging her Heroism while doing out and out Villainy
>>
>>5438078
>”You made your first friend before the term even started. You also seemed to be hitting it off with that student tour guide that knew sign language.”
>”Don’t worry about who his uncle is. Prowler and Huntsman don’t have anything to do with your personal life. If Miles is worried though, you can loop me in for advice. He made you happier, so he’s good in my book.”
Like >>5438083 said, she should get to be a kid. No need to turn it into a joke. Jokes/tears will come later.
Also,
>having the talk
>with Cat
>B L A C K C A T
Ben, while I’m sure she’ll take it seriously if we ask her, I’m not sure you want Cindy learning from Cat. She’ll absolutely take the chance to teach Cindy ways to prank you by talking about boys.
>>
>>5438087
>support
>>
>>5438078
>>”You made your first friend before the term even started. You also seemed to be hitting it off with that student tour guide that knew sign language.”
>>”This goes without saying, but try not to let anything slip about us. I doubt Prowler wants his nephew to learn what he does for a living.”
>>
>>5438078
>"Just kidding. I'll trust your judgement. But you will be among people your age and have the opportunity to have normal relationships with them. Friends, enemies, friendly rivals, and romance too."
>"Thing is, with that last one, uhm... say like any skill you can be good and bad at, you can fail and you can even get hurt."
>"My advice is to learn with someone who is also learning. Someone you can see yourself laughing about each others mistakes with."
>"Like with Saya, any of your relationships are ultimately yours. I can only hope that you will listen to my advice, and maybe come to me on your own when you think you need some... or Vic when it's female advice you're looking for. Felicia too."
>>
>>5438078
>”This goes without saying, but try not to let anything slip about us. I doubt Prowler wants his nephew to learn what he does for a living.”
And then
>”You made your first friend before the term even started. You also seemed to be hitting it off with that student tour guide that knew sign language.”
No matter what we do, don’t tease about relationships. That’s the kind of shit that gives a kid a complex.
>>
>>5438078
>>"What do you think of him?"
>”This goes without saying, but try not to let anything slip about us. I doubt Prowler wants his nephew to learn what he does for a living.”
>>
>>5438083
>>5438117
>>5438087
>>5438109
>>5438151
>>5438155
>>5438156
>>5438186
>>5438193
>"What do you think of him?"
>”You made your first friend before the term even started. You also seemed to be hitting it off with that student tour guide that knew sign language.”
>"He seemed to be a good kid, and I trust your judgment. Keep an eye on him will you? It seems this super business keep spilling to family and friends, so he might end up getting on trouble. Send a message to either me or Prowler if anything happens, ok?"
>”This goes without saying, but try not to let anything slip about us. I doubt Prowler wants his nephew to learn what he does for a living.”

Taking these. Writing...
>>
“He seemed to be a good kid, and I trust your judgment.” you began. “Keep an eye on him, will you? This metahuman business tends to spill over into our personal lives, so he might end up getting in trouble at some point. Send a message to either me or Prowler if anything happens, okay?”

She turned her full attention onto you and nodded seriously, every bit the good little soldier that her parents raised.

You nodded your approval and thanks, before allowing the conversation to flow back to a less dire topic. “So what do you think of him?”

Cindy blinked, paused to consider the question, and then shrugged. “He’s pretty funny. He kept talking even when he knew I couldn’t respond in time. And when that started getting annoying, we showed each other our sketchbooks.” she signed with an almost wistful smile. “He’s got an interesting style. Especially that wall art stuff.”

“Wall art? You mean graffiti?”

“Yeah, that.”

You couldn’t help but smile as you watched her replay the day’s events in her head. You were grateful to Prowler’s nephew for making her feel this way. It was hard to tell whether she was interested in him romantically at this point, but you didn’t think that you had much to worry about. Whatever happens, you trust Cindy to make good judgements about the people around her.

“Well, look at that. You made your first friend before the term even started.” you said with an encouraging grin. “You also seemed to be hitting it off with that student tour guide who knew sign language.”

Cindy nodded eagerly. “Her name’s Carlie. She’s a Sophomore and a Criminal Justice Major. She does all sorts of extracurricular activities in her free time. Sometimes for college credit, and sometimes for fun.”

Weird girl. Earnest and hard-working, but definitely weird.

“She sounds interesting.” you carefully commented.

“She’s gonna let me and Miles sit at her table with her brother on our first day.” she signed excitedly.

“Four potential friends already. You make this look easy.”

Cindy raised a hand with each finger evenly spread out. “Five, if we’re counting Saya. Although, I’m not expecting her to be half as patient as Miles or Carlie.”

“Don’t judge a book by its cover.” you advised.

Cindy nodded absently, still seemingly lost in thought.

The rest of your journey home was relatively silent, uneventful, and graciously peaceful.

(Cont.)
>>
—------

What will you do with the rest of your day?

>Head down to the sewers and check on the fairy flower harvest.
>Meet up with Madame Web and Julia to discuss the Spider Totem investigation.
>Wait for Prowler to get back so that the two of you can test out the new energy cells.
>Call up Marc and see if they’ve made any progress on researching the Silvertongue.
>Set up an appointment with one of Silvermane’s contacts.(The Owl/Hammerhead/Count Nefaria)
>Spend time with someone.(Who?)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5438268
>Meet up with Madame Web and Julia to discuss the Spider Totem investigation.
also
>stop already shipping our girl because she stood next to a boy
>>
>>5438268
>>Head down to the sewers and check on the fairy flower harvest.
>>
>>5438268
>>5438268
Call up Marc and see if they’ve made any progress on researching the Silvertongue.

Cindy is our daughter wife! Not miles!
>>
>>5438268
>Call up Marc and see if they’ve made any progress on researching the Silvertongue.
>>
>>5438268
>Call up Marc and see if they’ve made any progress on researching the Silvertongue

>>5438297
That’s the second time you’ve used that phrase.
>>
>>5438326
Won't be the last
>>
>>5438276
Ditto
>>5438267
Also I ask again, is Latveria already a country and could we get citizenship in order to get like diplomatic immunity or something, hell maybe we could see about doing something with Madripoor I read that they've got some swanky shit there (also women are Canonically not allowed pants in the big temple there)
>>
>>5438297
>daughter wife!
BASED DAUGHTER WIFE ENJOYER
>>5438268
>Call up Marc and see if they’ve made any progress on researching the Silvertongue.
>>
>>5438580
Ah, my apologies. I thought you were simply bringing it up as a topic of discussion between you and the other players. Latveria is indeed already a country, but the act of actually acquiring Latverian citizenship wouldn't be a walk in the park. Let alone a noble title.

To Doom, you're an outsider with very little to offer him in return, so he has very little reason to give you anything. You would have to contact him or meet him personally in order to pull something like that off. And that's only half of it.

Doom only gets diplomatic immunity because he's a head of state. I think the only other people that could claim to be untouchable would be Lucia Von Bardas, prominent local Latverians, and the other members of his clan. And this is only because Doom would very likely go out of his way to protect them.

This wouldn't be a quick series of missions by any means. It would be a massive commitment, of sorts.

>Madripoor
Are you talking about doing business with the people of Madripoor?

>>5438297
>>5438326
>>5438310
>>5438655
>Call up Marc and see if they’ve made any progress on researching the Silvertongue

Taking these. Writing...
>>
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s soon as you got home, you told Cindy where her food was in the fridge, grabbed your phone and headed back out to make a call.

Thankfully, the man in question wasn’t too hard to get a hold of. You had his secretary Reese to thank for that.

“Hey, Moonie. How goes the hunt?” you asked, pacing alongside a wall as if it were a perfectly horizontal surface.

Marc grunted. “Your assassin friend has been most helpful on that front. He thinks he’s narrowed it down to at least three people.”

“All of them registered positive for ‘biological abnormalities’?”

“So he says. He’s pretty much combed this entire city for these past few months, so I’m surprised that he’s gotten this far.” Marc admitted.

“And Nico’s tracking magic still isn’t working?”

“Huntsman,” Marc began, in the tone of a man who’s explained the same thing to someone multiple times. “This creature is both very old and very intelligent. It probably knows warding spells that neither Nico, nor Louise have ever heard of. For us, a prolonged fight would be very unfavorable.”

“Right. Gives them less time to steal our voices.” you muttered.

“Or worse. It could take away our very concept of languages.” he corrected you.

You struggled to suppress a shudder.

“And that’s part of the problem we face.” Marc continued. “Louise thinks that we have to capture it alive in order to obtain its venom. Along with…other bits of extract.”

“Well that’s not good.”

“Quite right.” he said, sounding more like Mr. Knight now. “Nico’s drawing up magic circles as we speak. She thinks we might be able to trap it for a while. Bind it to one location and prevent it from using magic or separating from its host.”

What will you say?

>”And they’re sure that these ‘magic circles’ are actually going to work? It sounds like there are an awful lot of uncertainties surrounding all of this.”
>”Why hasn't that host died off yet? Isn’t this thing supposed to be a vicious parasite? I feel like someone would notice a rotting corpse walking around outside.”
>”I’ve actually got a plan for capturing this thing. At least, until we can drag it down to the basement.”(Write-in.)
>”Can’t we just web its mouth shut? That way, the host can’t open its mouth to cast magic, and the creature can’t escape or use its powers.”
>"I feel like we should let someone else in on this plan."(Who?)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5438786
>”I’ve actually got a plan for capturing this thing. At least, until we can drag it down to the basement.”(Write-in.)
Web's mansion should be a good one right? Her mind powers would help keeping track of the creature if it tries to escape
>"I feel like we should let someone else in on this plan."(Who?)
Web, obviously

Not going to bother asking the other questions because the answer is just going to be pic related
>>
>>5438786
I don’t have a plan to capture it, but I do have an idea for keeping it contained.
>Call SHIELD, ask for WAND assistance after we contain it initially.
We were already told WAND will do jack shit to help us, but if we’ve already captured the thing then they’d have a duty to make sure it doesn’t break containment and, as Moonie mostly put it, fuck up the entire concept of language.

It won’t earn us any favors, but at least we were kind enough to inform them after we did the thing and didn’t wait until after we did the thing AND it got loose again.

Do we want to request Dr. Strange or Dr. Reed assistance? Strange could help Webb, not sure how Reed could help but we do have a way of contacting him so I’ll toss it out there.
>>
>>5438788
>>5438815
+1
>>
>>5438786
>>5438815
I should officially add a +1 to >>5438788, shouldn’t I?

I was implying support when talking about Strange, but I didn’t do it the proper way.
>>
>>5438875
I'll officially support your in turn too, They are good ideas.
>>5438786
>>5438788
+1 to this one
>>5438815
>>
>>5438786
Alright, so other ideas:
>Ask Doctor Strange if he can assist Moon Knight and Nico.
>Ask Callisto if she knows any other magical contacts from the faerie flower trade. Put them in contact with MK to decide if they can help for capture or for containment.
>Ask Peter Pan for help.
Last one should be tweaked. I’m hard-pressed to think of a way of contacting Peter ourselves. I don’t want to go through Hill either, we’ll already use her to pass a message to WAND and I don’t want her asking questions. Gwen could pass a message, but it could get her in trouble.
>>
>>5438786
>How do you feel about bringing in a SHIELD adjacent agency on this? They told me to sit and spin before, but if we can actually pin the thing they'll be forced to come down and contain it properly.
>>
>>5438786
>>5438815
Backing the language here >>5439034 to describe my WAND vote better.
>>
>>5438786
>>”Why hasn't that host died off yet? Isn’t this thing supposed to be a vicious parasite? I feel like someone would notice a rotting corpse walking around outside.”
>”Can’t we just web its mouth shut? That way, the host can’t open its mouth to cast magic, and the creature can’t escape or use its powers.”
>>
>>5438788
>>5438815
>>5438893
>>5439034
>>5439324
>>5438856
>>5438875
>>5438879
>>5439083
>”I’ve actually got a plan for capturing this thing. At least, until we can drag it down to the basement.”(Write-in.)
>Use Web's mansion
>"I feel like we should let someone else in on this plan."(Madame Web)
>"How do you feel about bringing in a SHIELD adjacent agency on this? They told me to sit and spin before, but if we can actually pin the thing they'll be forced to come down and contain it properly."
>Call SHIELD, ask for WAND assistance after we contain it initially.

Taking these. Writing...

Apologies for the delay. I'm moving to my new apartment tomorrow, so I've been packing my bags and saying goodbye to my friends here.
>>
“I’ve actually got a plan for capturing this thing.” you declared.

“I’m listening…”

“I know someone–a telepath that can probably track it down if it manages to escape. I feel like we should let her in on this plan.”

Marc made a thoughtful noise. “If warding spells won’t work, then a telepath might be the next best thing.” he thought aloud. “Does she live in a defensible position?”

Or maybe “Jake” was the one that made a thoughtful noise…?

“She’s got her own mansion. I’m sure our girls can set up some safety precautions using magic, or something.” you offered.

“Right. Or something.” he said distractedly.

“One more thing.” you added. “How do you feel about bringing in a S.H.I.E.L.D. adjacent agency on this? They told me to sit and spin before, but if we can actually pin the thing, then they’ll be forced to come down and contain it properly.”

“I wasn’t aware that you had such powerful connections.” Marc replied, sounding mildly impressed. “And you’re sure that this ‘adjacent agency’ is up to the task?”

“I don’t think they’d have the job if they couldn’t live up to Hill’s expectations.” you reasoned. “She sounded like she knew exactly what we were dealing with when I described it to her last.”

“And they refused to do anything?” he asked.

“She said that it’d be more dangerous to piss it off.”

“While I cannot deny the accuracy of that claim, it would be utterly careless to let such a dangerous creature roam free.”

“Amen, brother.”

You did agree with Moonie, but your biggest reason for doing this was still to get Cindy’s voice back. And if it isn’t possible, then at least you could say that you got revenge for her.

“Very well.” Marc said. “I will put my faith in your telepath, and this S.H.I.E.L.D. associate. Make the call whenever you are ready.”

“That all depends on Terminal. I’m ready to go whenever he is.” you decided.

“I will let you know as soon as we hear from him.” he agreed.

“Alright. Good luck.”

And with that, you ended the call. It was getting dark now; the days were becoming shorter and shorter. Cindy’s entrance exams for Brooklyn Visions were coming up soon, and you still had a birthday party to plan.

Somehow, your plan to hunt and subjugate an ancient monster seemed a little less grand when you grouped all of your problems into a single category. For these were all things that would benefit her in the future.

Even if she grew to hate you one day, you could take comfort in knowing that she took full advantage of the opportunities that you made for her.

In only two more days, you would confront something truly terrifying.

—--------

(Cont.)
>>
The following day, you woke up early to make breakfast and lunch for both you and Cindy. She’d be spending the next few days cramming at Vic’s house. Rich insisted that a well-rested mind absorbed information more easily, but Vic and Cindy were more prone to worrying about this sort of thing.

Now that she’d made a friend, and was tempted with the prospect of making a few more, the kid was downright determined to get into Brooklyn Visions.

You were sure of one thing, though. Pete was sure gonna miss having her around during your brother’s tutoring sessions. You feel like the little guy’s been developing a bit of a crush on her.

Once she was out of the house, you grabbed your suit, texted Julia, and told Flint to finish washing the dishes before you left the warehouse again. If you wanted your plan to have any hope of succeeding, then you’d have to bring Web and Julia in on it. Even if you were pretty sure that the old crone could foresee your arrival.

—-------

Just as you’d assumed, both women were prepared for your visit in advance. Julia had set out tea and pastries, while Madame Web made the rare descent from her sanctuary to greet you in the sitting room.

“Correct me if I’m wrong, Mr. Parker,” she began, her brows furrowed in a frown. “But I have the distinct impression that you wish to involve me in another one of your harebrained schemes.”

What will you say?

>”I am. But this time, I’m not doing it for personal profit. This could help Cindy, and a lot of other people.”
>”Oh, good. You’re all caught up. Maybe we can skip straight to addressing the massive gaps in your home defense systems.”
>”I don’t suppose your telepathy can penetrate warding spells, can it?”
>"Don't act like you don't want to help. You wouldn't have let me in if you really hated the idea."
>”We can get to that in a bit. First, I’d like to hear what you guys find out during your investigation.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5439376
>”I am. But this time, I’m not doing it for personal profit. This could help Cindy, and a lot of other people.”
>”Oh, good. You’re all caught up. Maybe we can skip straight to addressing the massive gaps in your home defense systems.”
Time to be a good dad and kill a spooky monster
>>
>>5439376
>”I am. But this time, I’m not doing it for personal profit. This could help Cindy, and a lot of other people.”
>"Don't act like you don't want to help. You wouldn't have let me in if you really hated the idea."
>”We can get to that in a bit. First, I’d like to hear what you guys find out during your investigation.”
>>
>>5439376
>”I am. But this time, I’m not doing it for personal profit. This could help Cindy, and a lot of other people.”
>”We can get to that in a bit. First, I’d like to hear what you guys find out during your investigation.”
>>
>>5439376
>”I am. But this time, I’m not doing it for personal profit. This could help Cindy, and a lot of other people.”
>"Don't act like you don't want to help. You wouldn't have let me in if you really hated the idea."
>”We can get to that in a bit. First, I’d like to hear what you guys find out during your investigation.”
>>
>>5439412
>>5439442
+1
>>
>>5439376
>”I am. But this time, I’m not doing it for personal profit. This could help Cindy, and a lot of other people.”
>”We can get to that in a bit. First, I’d like to hear what you guys find out during your investigation.”
Write-in:
>”I’m not going to assume you’ll do something this dangerous solely out of the goodness of your heart. I’m willing to accept a price, like I do for your jobs.”
Fair is fair. She doesn’t need our money obviously, but it’s reasonable to pay her in a job later on. It’s the nature of our relationship.

Though if she does turn down payment; I’m not going to argue. I just don’t want to be a dick and imply she’ll help us for a good thing since we hadn’t been taking up her job offers much either.
>>
>>5439552
+1
>>
>>5439399
>support
>>
>>5439399
>>5439412
>>5439440
>>5439442
>>5439552
>>5439581
>>5439466
>>5439612
>”I am. But this time, I’m not doing it for personal profit. This could help Cindy, and a lot of other people.”
>"Don't act like you don't want to help. You wouldn't have let me in if you really hated the idea."
>”We can get to that in a bit. First, I’d like to hear what you guys find out during your investigation.”

Taking these. Writing...

Just settled into my new place. I'm hoping to get a decent amount of writing done today.
>>
Testing new Wi-Fi
>>
>>5440456
Your new wifi is chunky.
>>
>>5440501
It do be kinda THICC, tho...
>>
>>5440456
Is that what happens when you pay for more bandwidth than you have broadband (I'm fairly certain that's how those things work) it makes it Thicc
>>
>>5440503
how do you get a new ID but retain formatting rights?
>>
>>5440535
I do have gigabit internet, now, which is nice.

>>5440540
I think the site recognizes my tripcode, so no matter where I am, I'm still OP. Big thanks to the anons that recommended it.
>>
>>5440541
I'm going to visit you. I baked you a cake.
>>
>>5440543
Come on over anytime, anon. I'll be waiting eagerly
>>
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“I am, but this time I’m not doing it for personal profit.” you proclaimed, plopping down on the sofa across from Web. She was in a more compact wheelchair this time, dangling from a series of cables protruding from her usual golden throne, which was clinging to the ceiling like an actual spider. “This could help Cindy and a lot of other people.”

Madame Web made a show of glancing around the room, which was especially weird to you because of her crippling blindness.

“And where is the little one?” she asked.

“Not here. She doesn’t need to be involved.” you said easily. “But I guess you already knew that.”

“I am not omniscient, Mr. Parker.” she replied. “My psychic abilities have not made me immune to being surprised every now and again.”

You sighed, and picked up a macaroon. You don’t think you’ve ever had one before.

“Don’t act like you don’t want to help. You wouldn't have let me in if you really hated the idea.”

Cassandra’s frown deepened. “No, I don’t like the idea at all.” she said curtly. “And frankly, I don’t much care for your current attitude, either. You misunderstand the unique nature of our relationship.” she began. “I do not work for you, and nor do I owe you any significant debts. I’d say it’s quite the opposite, really, considering how me and Julia have been investigating Spider-Totems on your behalf.”

You’d prepared a snappy comeback in record time, wanting to point out that this was a subject of interest for her, even without your involvement. But the rebuttal died on your lips when you noticed the haggard state of the woman. Her face was slim and gaunt. She seemed to be trembling slightly, and got the impression that she hadn’t had much rest, or food in quite some time.

And then you remembered how exhausted she’d been after you’d asked her to sweep the city for your friends and family. She must’ve been running her ragged by projecting her consciousness out over these past few months.

A pang of guilt shot through you like a jolt of lightning, and you inclined your head apologetically, stowing away the intended slight that you had prepared. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have assumed that you’d just say yes.” you said, in a far gentler tone. “Please, I’d like to hear what you’ve found out from the investigation.”

Cassandra leaned back in her chair and huffed out through her nose, looking slightly mollified. Julia cleared her throat awkwardly and fiddled with her laptop before breaking the tension.

(Cont.)
>>
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“We looked into the guys from your list. And out of everyone, Smythe and Stromm stood out to us as people to watch out for.” she began. “Let’s start with Spencer Smythe. According to the data I’ve pulled from his files, he’s been making a series of advanced robots, made from a sort of liquid metal that he’s been developing with the help of another scientist—his assistant, Mark Raxton.”

“What are the robots for?” you asked.

“My guess? I think he was preparing to fill an order for that big fat military contract that had landed in Oscorp’s lap.” Julia said. “But it looks like his funding was cut short when they realized that it was cheaper to try and mass produce that bootleg super soldier serum.”

“And how’d he take it?”

Julia shrugged. “Dunno. No one’s seen him in a few years. I did, however, manage to track down Mendel Stromm. He just got out of prison a little while ago. It was all over the news for a bit.”

“What’s his deal?”

Julia gave you an incredulous look. “His deal? Nothing. He was only found guilty of taking part in one of the biggest embezzlement schemes in recent American corporate history. He and Osborn used to be business partners!”

“Wait, seriously? When was that?” you inquired.

“Way back when Oscorp was just a startup. Norman caught Mendel’s hand in the cookie jar, and he went to federal prison for it. Or so we thought…”

“There’s more to the story?” you said, dipping a scone into your tea.

Julia nodded and turned her laptop around so that the screen was facing you. “Check this out. I’ve found evidence that Mendel might’ve been framed by Norman. The numbers don’t quite add up, and the paper trail that leads back to Stromm was a little too obvious. I think he wanted us to find them.” she explained. “And Osborn has a clear motive here. Before Mendel’s arrest, he was the more popular of the two. One was drowning in fame and adoration, and the other in debt.”

“So Norman framed him to gain full control over his company?”

“I think so. He was another pioneer of the robotics industry that was shafted by Oscorp. Him and Smythe have decent motives to want to see the company fail.” Julia reasoned.

“But that still doesn’t clear them from suspicion.” you cut in.

“Maybe not for Stromm, but I think it clears Smythe.” she said, brushing a lock of stray, red hair out of her face.

“How so?”

“Well, for one, he named his last batch of robots ‘Spider Slayers’.”

Well that’s not ominous at all.

“If I had to guess,” Julia continued. “I’d say that it was because he was still salty over them scrapping his projects in favor of the spider experiments. He thinks that his new robots are going to blow their spider enhanced experiments out of the water.”

(Cont.)
>>
“So he definitely wouldn’t want to see the experiments continued.” you concluded.

Julia nodded. “Stromm’s a bit of a mystery right now, though. No one knows what he’s doing. It might be worth paying him a little visit one of these days.”

Maybe you will.

“And what about our last suspect: Olivia Octavius?”

“Right. Good ol’ Liv…” she muttered, showing a giant cookie into her mouth and clicking away at her keyboard. Cassandra seemed to be greatly bothered by the amount of crumbs that she was creating in her hasty consumption.

“Currently the lead scientist and CEO of Alchemax. She’s about as brilliant as her brother, but I heard that she’s twice as weird, and a little twisted.”

What will you say?

>”Define ‘weird’. I feel like that’s pretty normal for a super scientist. I've got one in the family.”
>”Tell me more about her brother. What’s his deal?”
>”Do you think she might be trying to hijack Oscorp’s experiments for her own company?”
>”What’s her scientific field? Connors didn’t say much on the matter.”
>”Why’d Oscorp request help from a competitor? Wouldn’t it be super easy for them to steal their data that way?”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5440561
>”Define ‘weird’. I feel like that’s pretty normal for a super scientist. I've got one in the family.”
>”What’s her scientific field? Connors didn’t say much on the matter.”
>”Do you think she might be trying to hijack Oscorp’s experiments for her own company?”
>>
>>5440573
Ditto
>>5440561
Pic related When? And/or is there going to be Multiverse chicanery?
Oh, and we should really get some money into a savings account for Cindy and Peter's university (although with his luck it'll be completely wiped out by some kind of economic crisis or con artist) also just as a thought I'd like to reiterate my wish for reinforced striking surfaces (knuckles, forearms, knees, shins, the top of the foot, and the wrists) on the Suit along with the learning of a fighting style to go along with it, we're good but we could be better.
>>
>>5440561
>”Why’d Oscorp request help from a competitor? Wouldn’t it be super easy for them to steal their data that way?”
>>
>>5440744
Peter is a smart kid. Barring some unfortunate tragedy that makes him unable to study, he'll probably have no issues getting an academic scholarship to whatever university he wants.
Cindy's in the same boat, except I expect her to get an athletic scholarship or go to an art school.
While we'll probably still squirrel away money for the both of them, it's not really necessary for their education.
>>
>>5440744
my favorite suit
>>
>>5440744
I am making plans for Multiverse shenanigans, but it probably won't be anytime soon. There are still some major story beats to go through at the moment, and I don't want to take away from the impact of those events. Maybe in a few years when Ben has managed to fall into a comfortable rhythm in his career as a Spider-Man.

As for the other stuff, you're going to need to pitch this in a vote when you've got some downtime. The fighting style you develop is wholly dependent on who you have as a mentor, and it is the next step in your training. You MUST master a fighting style in order to improve any further. The next step above that is mastering multiple fighting styles.

>>5440879
Same for this. If you want to set some money aside, I'd put it to a vote.
>>
>>5440944
set aside 1 million for each in a trust fund.
>>
>>5440561
>>5440573
+1, though I’ll add some flavor.
>“Define weird. I’m weird, but no one’s commented on it yet.”
>>5440744
>>5440951
I’d back this. If we’re worried about money disappearing, I’d suggest giving money to the Morlocks to serve as an additional off-the-grid trust fund for them. Add a 5% or 10% admin fee for them to pocket, the rest to be held until Callisto thinks we’re dead or they turn 18. Cindy, Ben, or Flint would need to collect the fund for Peter though.

Maybe a smaller 100k for each one with the Morlocks?
>>
>>5440545
If you are anywhere near Aarhus I'll bring home spiced snaps
>>
>>5440561
>>”Define ‘weird’. I feel like that’s pretty normal for a super scientist. I've got one in the family.”
>>
>>5440966
>>5440951
>>5440879
>inb4 Desperados Tontine agreement
>Definitely won't lead to a four way murder to get at the pooled cash no sirree
Storing physical cash and loot with the Morlocks isn't a bad idea, although it kinda implicates them all in our various crimes in an accessory sort of a way
>>
>>5440573
>>5440744
>>5440966
>>5441082
>”Define ‘weird’. I feel like that’s pretty normal for a super scientist. I've got one in the family.”
>”What’s her scientific field? Connors didn’t say much on the matter.”
>”Do you think she might be trying to hijack Oscorp’s experiments for her own company?”

Taking these. Writing...

I'm gonna be gone for most of the day tomorrow, so I'll at least try to crank out this update.

>>5441112
It's easy! Just don't die!

>>5440968
I'm nowhere near it, but I bet that they're delicious!
>>
>>5440951
>>5440966
2 Votes to set aside 1 million each for Cindy and Peter. I'll try and keep track of these.
>>
>>5441112
The Morlocks don't pay taxes, so they're kinda fucked legally no matter what. No real reason not to let them hold the cash for us.
>>
“Define ‘weird’. I feel like that’s pretty normal for a super scientist.” you said. “And I should know. I’ve got one in the family.”

“There’s been rumors of her conducting inhumane experiments, but no one can actually prove it. People think that it’s just limited to cosmetics and medicines, but I think they’ve gotten up to far nastier stuff down in the building’s sub-levels.” Julia said in a conspiratorial tone. “And its a known fact that she’s a monster boss. She fires people without a second thought, and humiliates her employees when they disappoint her. Small wonder she doesn’t have any friends.”

Monster boss. Evil scientist. Anti-social. Got it.

“What’s her scientific field? Connors didn’t say much on the matter.”

“She’s got her Masters in mechanical and chemical engineering. It’s part of why she’s so valued at that company.” Julia explained, biting into another macaroon. “Well that, and that patent she has on those freaky 'extend-o arms' of hers.”

“Oh, wait! She’s the one with those weird tentacles sticking out of her back!?”

Julia nodded. “That’s the one. People have been calling her 'Doctor Octopus' on social media ever since she was recorded while using them in a public demonstration.”

“I totally forgot about that. For some reason, her name wasn’t ringing any bells in my head these past few months.” you said.

“Not a lot of people out there with a surname like ‘Octavius’.” Julia commented with a sly grin. “I’m pretty sure her brother uses something similar, but his designs are fundamentally different.”

“She’s sort of a celebrity, then. Do you think she might be trying to hijack Oscorp’s experiments for her own company?” you asked.

Julia bit her lip and leaned back in her seat. “It’s definitely possible. She’s always been a person that values results over cost. I think it might be worth it to keep an eye on her.”

You thought so too. But that would have to wait for now.

What will you say?

>”Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it. I can take care of the rest if you send me what you have so far.”
>”Can you think of any reasons why Mendel and the Chameleon would have any reason to associate with one another? I feel like he’d hate the Spider Totems just as much as Smythe does.”
>”If the Chameleon wanted to try and hide somewhere, I think the Alchemax sub-levels would provide some good cover. We should check it out later.”
>”We can stop the astral projecting if it’s too much stress on your body. If we haven’t found him yet, then he’s laying way lower than we’ve been looking.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5441243
>Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it. I can take care of the rest if you send me what you have so far.”
>”We can stop the astral projecting if it’s too much stress on your body. If we haven’t found him yet, then he’s laying way lower than we’ve been looking.”
>>
>>5441243
Liv does things to me man, just smoking hot in my opinion
>”Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it. I can take care of the rest if you send me what you have so far.
>”We can stop the astral projecting if it’s too much stress on your body. If we haven’t found him yet, then he’s laying way lower than we’ve been looking.”
I wonder what Tech upgrades we can loot from Liv other than tentacles because while neat I don't feel like they really suit Ben here (pardon the pun)
>>
File: 1666501622866286.jpg (187 KB, 640x975)
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Remember who we fight for
>>
>>5441243
>>”We can stop the astral projecting if it’s too much stress on your body. If we haven’t found him yet, then he’s laying way lower than we’ve been looking.”
>”Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it. I can take care of the rest if you send me what you have so far.”
>>
>>5441269
>>5441276
>>5441370
>Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it. I can take care of the rest if you send me what you have so far.”
>”We can stop the astral projecting if it’s too much stress on your body. If we haven’t found him yet, then he’s laying way lower than we’ve been looking.”

Gonna put out a quick update before I have to leave the house. Writing...
>>
>>5441243
>”Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it. I can take care of the rest if you send me what you have so far.”
>”We can stop the astral projecting if it’s too much stress on your body. If we haven’t found him yet, then he’s laying way lower than we’ve been looking.”
>”Would faerie flowers help anything? I can arrange a shipment if needed.”
We can also point out that we’re asking her to help with the Silvertounge, and having her comb the city while prepping for that is definitely asking for trouble.
On the off-the-record trust fund, I’ve belatedly realized Madame Webb would be a better guarantor of our funds than the Morlocks. Her association with us is even more distant, and it’s not like she’d have reason to use the money herself. I’d still prefer to put the backup fund with the Morlocks, but I know it’s because I’m biased and I like to slip them extra money in various places.
>>
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During your conversation with Julia, you were unable to prevent yourself from casting several furtive glances in Madame Web’s direction. She looked as if a stiff breeze could knock her over at this point. If you’d known that her investigation would be taking this much of a toll on her health, you would’ve…

Well, you don’t know what you would’ve done in the past. But you know what you can do now.

“We can stop astral projecting if it’s too much stress on your body. If we haven’t found him yet, then he’s laying way lower than we’ve been looking.” you said.

Cassandra perked up slightly at this.

“Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it.” you continued. “I can take care of the rest if you send me what you have so far.”

“Beaming it to your phone now.” Julia announced, clicking away at her laptop.

Madame Web just nodded and folded her hands over her lap, looking slightly taken aback. “Thank you. I must admit that the results of our investigation weren’t as fruitful as I might have hoped.”

“I don’t know about that.” Julia said without looking at either of you. “There’s strong evidence against Ock, and at least we know what to look out for if either Smythe or Stromm come looking for revenge.”

You tilted your head in confusion. “Revenge?”

Julia looked up at you, her expression serious and somewhat apologetic. “You’ve got Oscorp property flowing through your veins, Benji. If someone else makes that connection, then they might be inclined to do something drastic to get it back.” she explained. “You’re living proof of what they’ve been trying to perfect.”

“Julia is correct. You must be careful.” Cassandra agreed. “Your blood is valuable to anyone who might wish to create more of you. Those with a grudge against Oscorp might seek to destroy you, while those who are faithful to the project will try to harvest and extract your genetic material.”

You almost made a crude joke about where these bozos could extract your “genetic material” from, and Madame Web seemed to sense it, because her frown from before made a viscous comeback.

Your phone chirped and vibrated a few moments later, letting you know that Julia sent the files from her investigation straight to your hard drive.

“I’ll keep that in mind.” you promised. “Now, can we get back to talking about this ‘harebrained scheme’ of mine?”

Madame Web sighed, and gestured for you to continue.

—-------

You told them your plan, and to their credit, they didn’t immediately shoot it down. Julia made a joke about the Silvertongue taking away her knowledge of coding languages, but you could tell that she was terrified of encountering such a creature.

(Cont.)
>>
You reassured them that they would be safe with the others protecting them. Especially if Pandora Peters made a guest appearance. Until then, you would have to rely on Nico to place her wards around the mansion and trap her within the estate.

Both women were silent for a long while, before Cassandra broke the silence by clearing her throat.

“I do believe that I have a room here that should suffice as a temporary ‘dungeon’.” she offered.

Both you and Julia raised an eyebrow at that, but she didn’t elaborate any further. Instead, the two of you followed her down to the mansion’s lower levels.

—-----

While she was unable to take the stairs herself, Madame Web directed you towards a hidden staircase that led towards her supposed dungeon. And after descending the stairs and flipping the light switch, you realized that she was right to call it that.

At the bottom of the steps was a spacious room covered in slightly graying, white square tiles. It looked like a shower room or the bottom of a pool, with several drains spread evenly on the floor. There were ominous dark stains on the walls and floor that you knew weren’t created by dirt or mold. You and Julia shared a cautious glance, both of you likely coming to the same conclusions.

“Before you say anything, it isn’t mine.” said Madame Web’s voice. She was floating nearby as a slightly transparent astral projection. She seemed to be having an easier time projecting within close proximity to her body. “Nor does it belong to my late husband. I do believe that the estate’s previous owners had some rather…peculiar tastes.”

“Right…” Julia muttered, running a hand through her bright red hair.

“This should work.” you decided. Now all that was left was to make the call and bring everyone else in on the plan.

You took out your pager and stared at it for a while. How will you compose your message?

>Write-in only.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5441394
Apologies for the rushed update. I'm going to be out of the house for a while, and mobile posting has always been a hassle. You're welcome to bring up the fairy flower suggestion, and anything else that you deem as helpful during this vote or another one in the future. I appreciate it when my players get time to put in their suggestions and contribute to votes.
>>
>>5441395
>You’ve got Oscorp property flowing through your veins, Benji. If someone else makes that connection, then they might be inclined to do something drastic to get it back.” she explained. “You’re living proof of what they’ve been trying to perfect.”
But we never wanted this at the start? But we were a random guy who got fucked over by whoever set up the radioactive spider in Connors' lab? But we hate the Goblin too? If anything those guys should want us on their side against Oscorp instead of wanting us dead.
>>
>>5441399
No worries! I don’t mind write-ins missing a cutoff or not getting support. I figure stuff like this can be recycled later by anons or a QM if it makes sense for other characters to bring it up. I figured Madame Webb would already have thought about it and determined it wouldn’t help, but checking never hurts anyone.

Alright, write-in time:
>”Alright gang, Webb is on board. No jokes here, I’m running down the plan one last time. Offer corrections where relevant and answer questions when I ask.”
>”MK, you’re in charge of the first contact team. Your job is to capture the Silvertongue and bring it to Madame Webb’s basement. I’ll text you the address. If you can swing by to get a feel for the layout, please do so.
>”Please confirm your team in chat. I know you’ll have Nico and the merc, but Strange was on the table as a possibility. If you need more muscle, I still have time to see if the Morlocks know anyone as part of their faerie flower trade.”
>”Give me an estimated time to transport the creature to the address based on your ambush site in this chat after I send the address. A more accurate one after capture is something I’d like, but don’t overthink it during combat.”
>”Once the Silvertongue is captured, someone needs to reach out to me so I can place a call to SHIELD to pull WAND in. I’ll give them Webb’s address and give them the estimated time to arrival. We’ll see who they can supply for containment.”
>”Once the creature is here, we proceed with extraction. All hands will be available at this location for it. The basement has plenty of room, but we can overflow to the mansion if the space is needed for equipment or stability. MK, I’ll need someone here to set things up, I’ll defer to whoever you can spare tonight. If you need equipment or materials moved, I’ll help and call in Flint, Morlocks, anyone I can trust to keep their mouth shut about what they’re moving. On that note, I can arrange any amount of faerie flowers that the Morlocks can provide if it matters, just tell me how much you need.”
>”Someone post information on what the Silvertongue is likeliest to do in order to escape in this chat as a reminder for everyone, and whether it’s a concern for magical people or normals like myself.”
>”I have money. If anyone needs it for supplies or manpower to move it, let me know and I’ll make it happen. I’m the one calling for this op, it’s my bill to cover. Don’t cheap out if it’ll make a difference.”
Anons, feel free to knock anything I overlooked or that we need clarification on.
>>
>>5441397
>She agreed, and seems the previous owner got into some non-vanilla play in the basement. Send Nico over to see if it works.
>>5441448
Villains tend to be overly emotional and/or insane.
>>
>>5441460
I would rather go over the plan personally, less chances of someone trying to hack it.
But I like the breackdown.
>>
Oh, general question. Do we have an alternate way to communicate? If the entire English language gets fucked then we’ve clearly lost, but there’s a chance that even contained it can do damage to our ability to talk to each other in a localized area. Telepathy could work if it doesn’t use “language” per se. Maybe Madame Webb could become acting officer or act as a bridge. ASL would be another backup if Flint is present, I doubt it would rip that out if it could only use languages the host knows or its power is contained since it’d know ASL isn’t widespread. Not sure how many others know it in our group though.
>>
>>5441460
I like this as a starting point/base plan, so +1
>>
>>5441463
I’m worried we won’t be able to get everyone together at this point, and we’ll need to keep up communication if any roadblocks occur or people think of last minute things. We’re also safer than usual since the Silvertongue is likely acting alone and shouldn’t be much of a hacker, nor should it be aware we’re targeting it.

The most I can see is Hill catching early wind of it if SHIELD bugged our phone for mentions of them. WAND wouldn’t have had the chance. Which… we may as well scrub the mentions just in case.

>>5437113
>>5441460
Scorekeeper, can you scrub my mention of “WAND” and “SHIELD”? We can replace it with something like “our boys and girls in blue” since they’re basically cops. If they are tracking our texts, it shouldn’t get priority attention since our crimes are meant for more local departments.
>>
>>5441460
+1 BUT with this change >>5441582 about omitting WAND and SHIELD being stated like that
>>
>>5441460
>>5441463
>>5441534
>>5441582
>>5441709
>”Alright gang, Webb is on board. No jokes here, I’m running down the plan one last time. Offer corrections where relevant and answer questions when I ask.”
>”MK, you’re in charge of the first contact team. Your job is to capture the Silvertongue and bring it to Madame Webb’s basement. I’ll text you the address. If you can swing by to get a feel for the layout, please do so.
>”Please confirm your team in chat. I know you’ll have Nico and the merc, but Strange was on the table as a possibility. If you need more muscle, I still have time to see if the Morlocks know anyone as part of their faerie flower trade.”
>”Give me an estimated time to transport the creature to the address based on your ambush site in this chat after I send the address. A more accurate one after capture is something I’d like, but don’t overthink it during combat.”
>”Once the Silvertongue is captured, someone needs to reach out to me so I can place a call to 'our boys in blue' to pull 'Gryffindor' in. I’ll give them Webb’s address and give them the estimated time to arrival. We’ll see who they can supply for containment.”
>”Once the creature is here, we proceed with extraction. All hands will be available at this location for it. The basement has plenty of room, but we can overflow to the mansion if the space is needed for equipment or stability. MK, I’ll need someone here to set things up, I’ll defer to whoever you can spare tonight. If you need equipment or materials moved, I’ll help and call in Flint, Morlocks, anyone I can trust to keep their mouth shut about what they’re moving. On that note, I can arrange any amount of faerie flowers that the Morlocks can provide if it matters, just tell me how much you need.”
>”Someone post information on what the Silvertongue is likeliest to do in order to escape in this chat as a reminder for everyone, and whether it’s a concern for magical people or normals like myself.”
>”I have money. If anyone needs it for supplies or manpower to move it, let me know and I’ll make it happen. I’m the one calling for this op, it’s my bill to cover. Don’t cheap out if it’ll make a difference.”

>>5441582
>>5441709
Like this?

>>5441478
Telepathy would work, since it can convey ideas without words. But that is also dependent on which language you are thinking in. If you lose the native language that you speak, think, and dream in, then that would cause some major problems. ASL would be a good backup, since most people wouldn't expect the average person to know it. And it's especially useful when utilized with Julia's AR goggles.

Let me know if this is good, or if you want to rearrange some plans and tactics here. Also, did you want to specially craft a message for Hill and Pandora, or do you want to leave that to me?
>>
>>5442197
>Like this?
Nice, cool
>>
>>5442197
I thought the plan was to only warn them after we already captured the Silvertongue, so I don't know why we would send a message to them right now
>>
>>5442199
Fair enough. I'm getting ahead of myself here.
>>
>>5442200
Well, if everything goes well we can say something like
>Hill I think you should send some of WAND's boys down to (web's address). We have a special guest that it would be in your best interest to help stay well behaved. Just ask Pandora about a warning she gave me to know who we are dealing with here.
>>
>>5442200
>>5442201
I’d be okay with this, or something like
>Hey Hill, I have a message for WAND. I pissed off the thing Pandora told me not to touch. Since it can wipe out languages, it’s probably worth sending an agent to (address) to assist in holding containment while we kill it. Shouldn’t need it, but I’m willing to twist arms to make sure it dies. It stole something someone needs back.
>>
A few minutes later, you sent a message out to everyone involved to join a group chat. It took an unnecessarily long time for Louise to figure out how to do it from her end, but everyone else seemed familiar with the basic phone function.

“Alright, gang. Webb is on board. No jokes here. I’m running down the plan one last time. You’re free to offer corrections where relevant and to answer questions when I ask.” you began.

“Alright. Let’s hear it.” Nico said.

“MK, you’re in charge of the first contact team.” you continued. “Your job is to capture the Silvertongue and bring it to Madame Webb’s basement. I’ll text you the address. If you can swing by to get a feel for the layout, feel free to do so.”

“Very well.” Moon Knight replied.

“Please confirm your team in chat. I know you’ll have Nico and the merc, but Strange was on the table as a possibility.” you added. “If you need more muscle, I still have time to see if the Morlocks know anyone as a part of their fairy flower trade.”

“Wait wait wait. You know Strange too?” Nico asked.

“And what is this about ‘fairy flowers’?” Louise put in.

“It’s very likely that Nico will have to stay behind to set up the wards and sigils required to contain the Silvertongue.” Moon Knight explained, ignoring the other two’s questions. “I will be taking Louise and the mercenary.”

“What he said.” Nico agreed. “If we don’t get those wards set up, then it doesn’t matter if we can capture the thing.”

“That limits our options a bit, then.” you muttered. “Can you give me an estimated time to transport the creature to the address based on your ambush site if I send it to you? A more accurate time estimate after capture would be nice, but try not to overthink it during combat.”

“That depends on where it is in the city when we execute the first phase of this operation.” Louise said.

“That’s fine. Once the Silvertongue is captured, I’ll need someone to reach out to me so I can place a call to our ‘boys in blue’ to pull ‘Gryffindor’ in. I’ll give them Webb’s address, as well as an estimated time to arrival. We’ll see who they can supply for containment.” you replied. The other seemed confused by your terminology, but you knew that Moonie would clear things up for you when he met with them in person.

You plowed forward anyway. “Once the creature is here, we proceed with extraction. I’ll need all hands on deck for this part. The basement here has plenty of room, but we can overflow to the mansion if the space is needed for additional equipment or stability.”

Madame Webb shot you a disapproving look, but said nothing otherwise.

(Cont.)
>>
“MK, I’ll need someone here to help set up. I’ll defer to whoever you can spare tonight.” you continued. “I can call in some extra muscle on my end. So long as they can keep their mouth about what they’re moving.”

On that note, you can probably call up the Morlocks to see whether they can bring some fairy flowers your way. You haven’t tested out their capabilities very much, but they could be useful to someone else on the team.

“I’ll see if Tigra, Reese or Sun King can spare a few hours to help.” Moon Knight said in a reassuring tone.

“Awesome. I’ll also need someone to post information on what the Silvertongue is likeliest to do in order to escape in this chat. Just as a reminder to everyone, and to see whether it’s a concern for magical people, or normals like myself.”

“I shall contribute what I learned from my time in the Inner Sanctum.” Louise promised.

“Hey, Lou Lou, what ever happened to that friend you mentioned in the Order?” Nico asked. “She ever get back to you?”

“Non. She is concentrating her efforts on preparing for the highly anticipated vampire retaliation.” she reported. “With two vampire generals leading an army of the night, we have to expect the worst.”

The group chat fell silent at that, and no one said anything for a few minutes as you contemplated the implications of such a possibility. Terminal may have driven the vampires from New York, but you had a feeling that they would be back someday. And you would all have to be ready for when that time came.

“I have money.” you said, cutting through the radio silence. “If anyone needs it for supplies or the manpower necessary to move it, let me know and I’ll make it happen. I’m the one calling for this op, so it’s my bill to cover. Don’t cheap out if it’ll make a difference.”

“I’ve still got a few questions.” Nico piped up.

“As do I.” Moon Knight added.

“Moi aussi.” Louise said.

The three of them posted their questions in rapid succession. How will you respond to them?

>Where will you be during the first phase?(Webb’s Mansion/Capture Team/Morlock Tunnels/Write-in.)
>Who will you be calling in for support?(Write-in.)
>How much will you be spending, and what will you need?(Write-in.)
>Are you satisfied with the current team composition?(Capture Team: Moon Knight, Louise, Terminal || Magic Prep Team: Nico, Tigra, Sun King, Reese(?))
>(Inquire further about Silvertongue tactics.)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5442201
>>5442243
I'll take both into consideration.

>>5441460
Oh, and I'm not sure if I mentioned it before, but you did a great job with this write-in. Keep up the good work!

Be sure to let me know if you want additional information on something crucial to your plan.
>>
>>5442253
>Where will you be during the first phase?
Capture Team
>Who will you be calling in for support?(Write-in.)
SHIELD's magical division WAND
Maybe Strange? We would need to talk to him first
>How much will you be spending, and what will you need?(Write-in.)
As much as we can afford, Cindy's well being is priority number 1
Ask them what magical equipment would be needed, and if normal restraints would also be useful
>Are you satisfied with the current team composition?
Seems to be good
>(Inquire further about Silvertongue tactics.)
>Apologize to Webb for all the headache and walking over her, our sister said we tends to get overly controlling when dealing trying to protect loved ones
>>
>>5442253
>Where will you be during the first phase?
Capture Team
>Who will you be calling in for support?(Write-in.)
SHIELD's magical division WAND
Strange.
Thinking about it, since we’re calling SHIELD we may as well ask Hill if she wants to send Peter Pan or anyone. Not their wheelhouse though, so I’d give her an out.
Flint? We can communicate ASL with him, and he’s good muscle for moving/restraining things.
>How much will you be spending, and what will you need?(Write-in.)
Whatever other teams ask for on both counts. No sense hiring movers if we can move critical pieces, get them set up, and when done we’ll have the next important items moved already etc. No sense getting flowers if no one thinks they can use them etc.
I doubt we have enough contacts to procure anything magical, but we can certainly pay for it.
>Are you satisfied with the current team composition?
Good enough for me!
>(Inquire further about Silvertongue tactics.)
Alternate communication possibilities. Anyone who can speak multiple languages could use receive telepathic thought if one of them is wiped. May as well bring it up to MK and the team to chew on.
>Apologize to Webb for all the headache and walking over her, our sister said we tend to get overly controlling when dealing trying to protect loved ones
>Admit we’ll probably do it a couple more times tonight…
>Unlike WAND, she never said no, and we’re not close enough to her to call in favors like this out of the blue. If she has a personal job, she gets to call this in for supporting us.
We don’t need to offer any favors. But I’d feel like an ass if we didn’t since this is so important to us. Everyone should get something out of this, and we can’t pay Webb since she doesn’t need it.
>>
>>5442258
>>5442298
+1
>>
>>5442258
>>5442298
>>5442618
>Where will you be during the first phase?(Capture Team)
>Who will you be calling in for support?(WAND, Strange)
>How much will you be spending, and what will you need?(However much is necessary)
>Are you satisfied with the current team composition?(Yes)
>(Inquire further about Silvertongue tactics.)
>Alternate communication
>Apologize to Webb for all the headache and walking over her, our sister said we tend to get overly controlling when dealing trying to protect loved ones
>Admit we’ll probably do it a couple more times tonight…
>Unlike WAND, she never said no, and we’re not close enough to her to call in favors like this out of the blue. If she has a personal job, she gets to call this in for supporting us.

Taking these. Writing...
>>
From the beginning, you intended to be a part of the capture team. You really wanted to see whether these Pym Pebbles were worth the money you paid for them. Phin had been asking about them constantly, but you insisted on saving them, since you were pretty much saving them for a situation like this one.

As for backup, you were going to follow through with your initial idea of calling in help from S.H.I.E.L.D.’s magic division: W.A.N.D.

They’d know best how to contain a creature this powerful. You weren’t sure if the Director of W.A.N.D. herself would be coming down to party, but you would take anything that they had to give you at this point.

If possible, you’d love to try and get Strange’s help on this. You knew that he was a busy guy, and that his availability was most likely spotty at best, but you had to at least give it a shot.

While the others discussed supplies and equipment, you read through the information from Louise’s posts. She had spent a great deal of time translating the ancient tomes from her order’s libraries. You’d have to thank her for this later.

According to the texts, a Silvertongue’s strategy is somewhat dependent on their personality. Due to them being highly intelligent creatures, they’re tactics may vary from one another’s. Some might utilize animals by using Omnilingual commands, and others will fall back on ancient, powerful spells. Most Silvertongues are capable of using magic by virtue of being magical beasts, and as a result, their inherently magical composition gives them a natural resistance to magical attacks.

While their hosts were still mostly human, their bodies were usually altered to some degree by the Silvertongue invading their body. However, there are some actions or rituals that can damage their bodies beyond repair. This includes, but is not limited to: Communicating with a higher being, summoning a higher being, and creating sounds that are not common or native to the native species of their host.

“Damn…” you muttered, scrolling through the messages with a newfound urgency.

Silvertongues almost always appear to be a strange mix between an insect and a crustacean, with long mandibles on either side of their mouth. They tend to retract their bodies into the chest cavity of their hosts, using their long tendrils to finely manipulate them from the inside. The only telltale sign of their presence is the brief flash of their shiny carapace from within the hosts’ mouth whenever they open them.

At the very end of the post, you read: “Modern trends of wearing surgical masks and superhero masks have made the eradication of this species increasingly difficult. They should, under no circumstances, be allowed to mate and breed with another member of their species.”

Could this thing actually take over the body of a metahuman? Would it actually be able to use the powers of its hosts? That would definitely put a bit of a wrinkle in your plans.

(Cont.)
>>
For the time being, you put your phone away to give yourself a moment to think. You glanced at Madame Webb’s astral projection, which was conversing with Julia near the stairs.

“Hey,” you began, approaching the two as Julia began to climb the stairs. “I’m sorry about all this. It must be a massive headache for you. For both of you.”

Both women turned to look at you, but the older of the two was the only one who seemed unimpressed.

“My sisters says that I tend to get a little controlling when it comes to protecting loved ones.” you said, rubbing the back of your neck awkwardly.

“Oh, only a little?” Cassandra said in a sarcastic tone.

“I said I was sorry. And I’m telling you this in advance, but it’ll probably happen a few more times tonight…”

“Of course not. Why shouldn’t it?” she said, not dropping the sarcastic tone. “Would you like the deed to my estate before, or after you bring a dangerous creature into my home?”

You winced at that. You couldn’t deny that you deserve the what and shade coming your way. Unlike W.A.N.D, Webb’s never screwed you over in any way. And the two of you aren’t exactly close friends. You’re definitely not close enough to just barge into her home, unannounced, and demand that she let you use her mansion as a base for your monster hunting escapades.

“I’m not going to keep apologizing, because I’m not backing down from this.” you boldly proclaimed. “Instead, I’ll owe you a huge favor in the future. And you get to call it in whenever you want.”

“How charitable of you.” she said in an almost flat tone. “Truly, I am blessed on the night of this ‘sacred hunt’.”

Anger welled up within you then, and you could see Julia hurrying her footsteps in order to create some distance between you and her.

“I’m not just doing this for my own health, or to stroke my ego!” you exclaimed. “This is the only way to get Cindy’s voice back. And if what I’m reading is accurate, then everyone would be better off without the creature responsible for taking it.”

“Miss Moon is still very capable of living a fulfilling life, even with a disability.” she reasoned. “She is a bright young girl, with boundless energy. And I can see that she has made significant progress in learning sign language. You do not need to risk-”

“But it’s not the same!” you argued. Why couldn’t she see that? “Wouldn’t you want to get the use of your legs back, if all it took was killing some evil monster?”

It was as if your words hit Madame Webb like a physical force. For a moment, she just balked at you, and you prepared yourself for the scathing retort that would no doubt follow. But it never came.

(Cont.)
>>
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A solemn expression sank into her withered, gaunt face, and she looked away from you, her lips pressed into a thin line. A second later, her astral projection faded away. Even after you got to the top of the steps, you and Madame Webb didn’t say much to each other at all.

—------------

These thoughts lingered on your mind as you stood before the Sanctum Sanctorum. You were saved from having to offer another awkward apology when Nico descended down from the sky on a wave of purple energy. She briefly greeted Webb and Julia before getting to work on creating the wards. Webb simply retired to her room on the third floor, not sparing any of you a second glance.

You knew that she had a good reason to be pissed. A few good reasons, actually. She was old, hangry, and bone tired from having to astrally project her consciousness all over the city. And instead of getting a break, she’s greeted by yet more bullshit from Ben Parker.

And to top it off, you blew up at her when she tried to insinuate that you didn’t have to do this. She just didn’t get it. Pandora didn’t get it either. It wasn’t as if this thing was fucking invincible. You were sure that no one ever told the Avengers not to go beat up Galactus or Ultron.

It was a stupid argument. One that didn’t need to happen. Once this was all over, you’d smooth things over between you and Webb, and she’d be back to her normal, moderately grumpy self.

Nodding to yourself, you wrapped the door lightly with your fist and waited for a response. Nothing happened.

Last time, the door just swung open for you. But now, it truly seemed like nobody was home. Just in case, you tried a few more times. Still nothing.

You were about to look for a pen and paper in your utility belt, when the door creaked open to show the slanted eye of a bald Asian man within the Sanctum.

“I am very sorry, but the Sorcerer Supreme is out at the moment. You will have to come back later.” he said, in very accented English.

What will you say?

>”Please, it’s important. Is there any way I can get in contact with him?”
>”When will he be back?”
>”Can I leave a message?”
>”Well, can you spare someone to help? Because this is kind of an emergency.”
>”Are you one of his students? Maybe you could help me out instead.”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5442908
>”Well, can you spare someone to help? Because this is kind of an emergency.”
>”Are you one of his students? Maybe you could help me out instead.”
>>
>>5442908
>>Write-in.
"tell him that there is a Silvertounge catching operation about to go down, and I would appreciate him being informed. Just in case the City Blows up."
>>
>>5442908
>>5442939
This, but clarify that it’s modern civilization that’d blow up. Having the English language get deleted would have a ton of global knock-on effects since the US would collapse outright. Probably the UK and former colonies too.
>>
>>5442908
>”Can I leave a message?”
>”Are you one of his students? Maybe you could help me out instead.”
>>
>>5442908
>”Can I leave a message?”
>”Are you one of his students? Maybe you could help me out instead.”
>"Because, you know, supernatural threat to the city and all that."
>>
>>5442910
>>5442939
>>5442997
>>5443050
>>5443818
>”Can I leave a message?”
>"Tell him that there is a Silvertongue catching operation about to go down, and I would appreciate him being informed. Just in case the city blows up."
>”Are you one of his students? Maybe you could help me out instead.”

Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: Spoiler Image (578 KB, 849x800)
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“Then can I leave a message?” you said quickly. “Tell him that there’s a ‘Silvertongue’ catching operation about to go down, and I would appreciate him being informed. You know. Just in case the city blows up.”

The Asian man’s eyes widened slightly at that. “I have no idea what that is, but I can only hope that its capacity for blowing up cities is greatly exaggerated.” he said.

“Are you one of his students? Maybe you can help me out instead.” you suggested.

Just then, a loud crash echoed throughout the Sanctum, shaking the very ground you stood on. The strange man’s eyes slid over to the source of the disturbance, and then back to you. His expression was that of a neighbor silently apologizing for his noisy dog barking at 3 in the morning.

“I am afraid that is not possible.” he said simply. “There were, erm...complications with one of the Sorcerer Supreme’s portals. It has begun to…leak.”

Another crash, another brief glance, and silence fell between the two of you.

“However…” the man continued, looking thoughtful. “If the situation is as dire as you say, then I might know just the disciple to investigate in my stead.”

Then, he turned back inside and shouted: RINTRAH! COME HERE!”

You felt heavy footfalls approaching your position, and you felt for your spider sense as a precautionary measure. But not even your danger sense could prepare you for the strange sight that stood looming over the man in traditional Chinese clothing.

A giant, green minotaur with coal black eyes crouched under the doorway to get a peek at you. His large nostrils flared and puffed out steamy air. The thing was incredibly muscular, and had to hunch over just to meet you and the Asian man at eye level.

“What is it, Wong?” the minotaur asked, sounding surprisingly intelligent and sophisticated for a brute his size.

“This man here tells me of something called a ‘Silvertongue’. What do you know of it?” Wong said.

The creature called ‘Rintrah’ stroked his fuzzy beard with a large hand, humming to himself thoughtfully. “The name sounds somewhat familiar. Perhaps it is an ancient specimen of considerable power.” he reasoned. “With some time, I should be able to research-”

“No time.” Wong cut him off. “You go now and check it out. If it’s just another hoax, then you come right back. Understand?”

Rintrah deflated a bit, but he nodded his understanding. “Very well.” he decided, before turning those dark eyes onto you. “I am Rintrah.”

“I gathered that much.” you said. “You can call me ‘Huntsman’.”

(Cont.)
>>
File: 195131-196860-rintrah.jpg (157 KB, 400x667)
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The creature called ‘Rintrah’ stroked his fuzzy beard with a large hand, humming to himself thoughtfully. “The name sounds somewhat familiar. Perhaps it is an ancient specimen of considerable power.” he reasoned. “With some time, I should be able to research-”

“No time.” Wong cut him off. “You go now and check it out. If it’s just another hoax, then you come right back. Understand?”

Rintrah deflated a bit, but he nodded his understanding. “Very well.” he decided, before turning those dark eyes onto you. “I am Rintrah.”

“I gathered that much.” you said. “You can call me ‘Huntsman’.”

Rintrah extended a hand through the door, and you hesitantly placed yours on top of his index finger. Instead of enveloping your entire hand, he allowed you to shake his finger, almost as if he were greeting an infant.

“Is that an important title in your culture?” he asked.

“It is to me.”

“Enough chit-chat.” Wong declared, before shoving the Rintrah through the front door and shutting it behind him. Somehow, the frame seemed to stretch around him, perfectly forming itself to fit his own frame every step of the way.

The two of you stared at each other for a moment, before Rintrah awkwardly cleared his throat. “Well, then. Shall we get going?”

You nodded absently, still struggling to take all of this in. “Sure…”

What will you talk about along the way?

>”So…you’re a sorcerer too? What kind of magic do you practice?”
>”What’s it like to apprentice under Doctor Strange? Or are you an…apprentice of an apprentice?”
>”You said you might have some books on Silvertongues, right? Do you know if they have any crippling weaknesses?”
>”I don’t suppose you can disguise yourself somehow, can you? You’re just…kind of conspicuous right now.”
>Nothing. You brief him on the Silvertongue situation and keep it moving.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5443856
>”You said you might have some books on Silvertongues, right? Do you know if they have any crippling weaknesses?”
>”So…you’re a sorcerer too? What kind of magic do you practice?”
>"Silvertongue is a ancient parasite creature that is capable of consuming language. Apparently, if it feels threatened enough, it could erase the english language from the memory of all that speak it out of spite. It wouldn't blow up the New York directly, but it would definitely be apocalyptic to the modern world."
>>
>>5443856
>>”You said you might have some books on Silvertongues, right? Do you know if they have any crippling weaknesses?”
>"Silvertongue is a ancient parasite creature that is capable of consuming language. Apparently, if it feels threatened enough, it could erase the english language from the memory of all that speak it out of spite. It wouldn't blow up the New York directly, but it would definitely be apocalyptic to the modern world."
>”So…you’re a sorcerer too? What kind of magic do you practice?”
>>
I read the same thing like 5 times.
>>
>>5443856
>You brief him on the Silvertongue situation and keep it moving.
>”You said you might have some books on Silvertongues, right? Do you know if they have any crippling weaknesses?”
Keep it nice and mission-related.
I read that paragraph over again and thought for a second that Rintrah just just wonders is everyone is an ancient specimen of considerable power when he learns their name.
>>
>>5443903
Wonder what he would think about these guys
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNPKXfb3rws
or this guy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY_GmX9Szaw
>>
>>5443903
>>5443906
Whoops, its "specimen" not "spaceman"
>>
>>5443856
>>5443860
+1
>>5443903
>Spoiler text
Same. It would have made for a good joke though.
>>
>>5443900
>>5443903
>>5443906
>>5443907
>>5443913
You know, now that I think of it, that is a bit of a wacky way to write that. I should've gotten some rest before I wrote that update.

>”You said you might have some books on Silvertongues, right? Do you know if they have any crippling weaknesses?”
>”So…you’re a sorcerer too? What kind of magic do you practice?”
>"Silvertongue is a ancient parasite creature that is capable of consuming language. Apparently, if it feels threatened enough, it could erase the English language from the memory of all that speak it out of spite. It wouldn't blow up the New York directly, but it would definitely be apocalyptic to the modern world."

Taking these. I'll start writing, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to update tonight.
>>
>>5444314
I still love you Bae
>>
>>5444314
If you somehow manage to turn it into a brick joke in another thread, you’ll have my kudos.
>>
>>5444333
Love ya too, anon!

>>5444376
I shall try my very best!
>>
“So…” you began. “You’re a sorcerer too? What kind of magic do you practice?”

His flat ears flapped excitedly for a moment. “Yes well, some of the finer sorceries are beyond me, as they require more manual dexterity and articulation than I currently possess. But what I lack in flexibility, I more than make up for in other categories.” he explained. “I am capable of competently casting dimensional magic, I am well versed in illusions, and I am able to perceive the ‘Threads of Destiny’!”

He said this last part with such pride that you just had to ask. “Threads of Destiny? What’re those?”

You didn’t think it was possible, but the green giant gave you a flat look.

“By the Veil! You do not know of the ‘Wrydling Way’?” he asked, clearly incredulous for some reason.

You shrugged. “Should I?”

Rintrah looked troubled for a moment. “Well, I simply thought you would have some idea of it, as I sense many threads connected to you at this very moment. Even now, they are leading you to a very crucial moment that may decide the fate of many others within this city!” he exclaimed. “One that can perceive those threads might very well consider you a practitioner of ‘Weaver Magic’!”

You gave yourself a once over, but didn’t manage to see anything. “Oh, yeah? Does that have anything to do with the ‘Web of Life and Destiny’?” you asked.

Rintrah’s ears perked up. “Ah, so you do know something about it!” he said with no small amount of excitement. “Yes, that is a popular theory that operates on a much larger scale. That there is a greater ‘web’ that connects our fates to those of our multiversal counterparts. Although, it has never been proven.”

You got the distinct feeling that this guy and Madame Web could have some interesting conversations in the future.

“Can you show me an example of this ‘Weaver Magic’?”

Rintrah nodded eagerly. “Certainly.”

The minotaur raised his hands above his head and began waving them around. Shortly afterward, his hands became wrapped within a vaguely shimmering, golden energy that soon enveloped his entire body. Right before your very eyes, his large frame shrunk down to that of man average height with dark, slicked back hair. He actually looked sort of familiar.

“Well? What do you think?” he asked in an altered voice, his arms spread like that of a gloating performer. For some reason, his smile looked…’wrong’ somehow. But you didn’t think that it was a failure on his part. It was more like a product of the face’s specific anatomy.

“Huh. Neat!” you said, nodding your approval. “Who’s this guy you chose? I think I’ve seen him before.”

(Cont.)
>>
File: f-0100000118.jfif.jpg (529 KB, 1265x1697)
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Rintrah gave you another incredulous look. “Why, I’m Humphrey Bogart, of course! From Casablanca! I do so love his movies.”

Ah. That’s where you recognized him from. Either way, you were impressed by Rintrah’s convincing illusion. There was no indication of his original size. Even his shadow and footfalls were convincingly human!

“That’s a good look for you. It’s a lot less conspicuous than a giant green bull-man.” you said.

He bowed awkwardly, but genuinely. “I thank you.”

“Just to cover the basics, a Silvertongue is an ancient parasitic creature that’s capable of consuming languages.” you began. “Apparently, if it feels threatened enough, it can eradicate a language in a given area from the memory of all that speak it out of spite. It wouldn’t blow up New York outright, but it would definitely be apocalyptic to the modern world.”

Rintrah’s eyes widened, and he gave you a considering look that lead you to believe he was trying to figure out whether you were joking or not.

THAT is what a Silvertongue is!? Oh dear. What was I thinking of, then?” he muttered absently, glancing up and away.

“Probably some other tongue-related magical oddity.” you quipped. But Rintrah nodded as if you were saying something entirely sensible and reasonable. “You said that you might have some books on them, right? Do you know if they have any crippling weaknesses?”

Rintrah returned his attention to you and gave you what he had hoped was a reassuring smile. But again, it simply looked wrong on a face like his.

“While I cannot recall anything currently, I am sure that something will come up if I devote enough research to it.” he proudly declared, thumping his chest. “For the time being, do you have a space sufficiently sized for a sentient such as myself to relax and…”

He gestured at the space around him.

“Spread out?”

“I think you’ll feel right at home where we’re going, pal.”

—-----

Shortly after you returned to the mansion, the others came to you with their list of required supplies.

Louise didn’t require much of anything. Apparently, she had an arsenal ready to go in the van parked outside Madame Web’s estate. Marc was the same, except he was somehow capable of funding his own escapades, and therefore had no intention of imposing on you to get his gear.

Nico and Rintrah were a different story, however. They both needed rare materials to complete ritual circles, wards, and prepare test components for their research on the Silvertongue’s weakness. Louise was able to provide the most basic of supernatural banes, such as cold iron, silver, mirrors, salt, mountain ash, and funnily enough, flamethrowers!

But considering how this creature was mostly an unknown entity to all of you, the others felt it necessary to explore some of the more ‘unusual’ avenues of paranormal research.
>>
>$300,000 has been removed from your account!

While they spared no expense in gathering the rarest of spell components, they reassured you with the knowledge that it could’ve been worse, had it not been for their respective resourcefulness.

Nico could travel great distances on her staff by propelling herself with magic, and Rintrah could effectively create portals using his dimensional magic. Both used these abilities to gather whatever materials they could on their own. Louise and Marc’s self sufficiency didn’t seem to hurt either.

What will you do over the next few days?

>Stalk the remaining targets with Terminal. You can go places where he can’t.
>Try to patch things up with Madame Web, and make sure that everything is running smoothly. She seems more stressed out than usual these days.
>Help Rintrah and Nico with their rituals, and learn as much as you can about magic from them.
>Assist Marc’s people in beefing up the mansion’s security.
>Try to recruit others to your cause.(Who?)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5444876
>Try to patch things up with Madame Web, and make sure that everything is running smoothly. She seems more stressed out than usual these days.
>Assist Marc’s people in beefing up the mansion’s security.
>>
>>5444876
>Stalk the remaining targets with Terminal. You can go places where he can’t.
All according to our station. Each without exception.
>>
>>5444876
>>Stalk the remaining targets with Terminal. You can go places where he can’t.
>>Try to patch things up with Madame Web, and make sure that everything is running smoothly. She seems more stressed out than usual these days.
>>
>>5444884
+1
>>
>>5444884
+1
>>
>>5444878
>>5444882
>>5444884
>>5444908
>>5444996
>>Stalk the remaining targets with Terminal. You can go places where he can’t.
>>Try to patch things up with Madame Web, and make sure that everything is running smoothly. She seems more stressed out than usual these days.

Taking these. Writing...
>>
Over the next few days, you and the others wasted no time or effort in fortifying Madame Webb’s mansion. Many of them were rushing to and fro, weaving between and around one another, and trading casual remarks every now and again. Tigra and Sun King seemed to be the most laid back of the bunch, while Louise and Reese made it a point to stay as far away from each other whenever possible. They never talked, and no one made it a point to try and make them interact any more than was absolutely necessary. In your opinion, the Nightguard showed remarkable restraint in the presence of another vampire, when her entire order was devoted to exterminating them.

Despite this, however, she seemed to cause the least amount of trouble out of the group. She kept to herself and discretely set her traps on and around the estate’s grounds. You could almost go an entire day while only catching brief glimpses of her, sometimes. Tigra, Reese and Sun King were a lot more present in their efforts to set up observatory equipment and rudimentary fortifications.

Nico and Ritrah, on the other hand, were moving so quickly that it made you tired just looking at them. Using the money that you provided, the teenage witch was running around making all sorts of absurd trade deals, and bartering for enchanted items of considerable power. She informed you that she was trying her best to avoid asking you for more money, but to not be surprised if she was forced to expand her budget.

You told her not to worry about it. She seemed to be having an easier time than Rintrah, at least. The green giant was opening portals in every which direction, all of them leading to areas with incredibly diverse ecosystems, time zones and climates. Some you recognized, and some you didn’t. You tried not to ask too many questions.

The big guy was apparently on a big fetch quest, where he went searching for rare ingredients by trekking up mountains and plunging through the deep, dark depths of ancient catacombs. Sometimes he came back injured, and other times he made the mistake of accidentally bringing something dangerous back with him when he spent too long closing the portal.

Multiple occurrences of such events caused you to relegate Sun King and Louise to monster slaying duty. But after a large fire almost broke out in the sitting room, the pyromancer was swapped out for Tigra.

Unsurprisingly, none of this was doing anything to relieve Madame Webb’s stress levels. The initial shock of having Rintrah undo his illusion in front of her was bad enough, but the frantic scurrying, constant noise and accidental damage done to her home had her locked up in her room most of the time. Julia later informed you that she hadn’t been sleeping or eating too well these days.

(Cont.)
>>
But to be honest, you didn’t need her to tell you something so obvious. The woman was noticeably thinner than normal, and her complexion was almost ghostly pale. Most of the time, you just tried to stay out of her way and ease her burden, but the results of trying to wrangle a mansion full of weirdos was obviously less than ideal.

Eventually, you decided to change up your tactics. You’ve been avoiding the psychic for far too long, and she deserved a proper apology for her troubles.

How will you make it up to her?

>Buy her a bunch of expensive chocolates and flowers. Maybe Rintrah can drop you off somewhere to find a nice bouquet.
>Have everyone stop working for a day or two so that she can finally relax. Maybe you can have a movie night.
>Find some time alone with her and give her a heartfelt apology.(Write-in optional)
>See if you can’t grab her some fairy flowers from the Morlock tunnels.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5445024
All of the above
>>
>>5445024
>Have everyone stop working for a day or two so that she can finally relax. Maybe you can have a movie night.

>See if you can’t grab her some fairy flowers from the Morlock tunnels.
>>
>>5445024
>Find some time alone with her and give her a heartfelt apology.(Write-in optional)
>Have everyone stop working for a day or two so that she can finally relax. Maybe you can have a movie night.
>>
>>5445024
Alright, I’m going to write part off an apology, but also give some food for thought for Ben since he is probably more invested in this than Cindy would be, and needs to chill. I’m not greentexting since I don’t want to think of what he’d actually say.

He threw out at Webb that if she had to kill a monster to get her legs back, she’d do it. That’s overlooking two things. The first is that Cindy isn’t killing the monster like in Ben’s scenario, she’s getting handed it instead. The second, and more important to the apology, is that Madame Webb probably gives few shits about her disability. She’s had a while to acclimate, and all the crazy shit going on here right now, in the city, with her searches, with Julia etc. are what she actually cares about.

So, general apology - apologize for the comparison. For going for a low blow by suggesting Ben understood how disabilities matter to Webb better than she does. For acting like his favor was some big thing when we’re certainly not equipped to deal with most of her real problems.

Food for thought - Cindy’s biggest problem is not her lack of voice. Between dead parents, rooming with villains, training for hero work, dealing with Khonshu’s expectations, adjusting to social life when she’s been stuck in a cave most of her life, and deciding whether she’s going to be buddy-buddy with a future crime syndicate heiress, it’s not even top 20 concerns I’m sure. So as much as we’re pushing for this? It could be met with a shrug as a “hey this is nice but I’m still doing all the same stuff I was before so kthnxbye”. Probably won’t be that bland, but not as excited as Be. thinks.

She may even be upset at getting her voice back, but not being able to fight for it herself. We can massage that away (I think her meeting it was dangerous for magic reasons?) but if Ben gets confused and says he thought she’d be more grateful I’m sure that could compound and lead to a dumpster fire where she yells at us for not actually understanding her.

I’m tempted to let Ben reap what he sows for being a villain trying to do a good thing and fucking it up. But I don’t want him to suffer that much, so consider this an advance idea for other anons to chew on when we meet back up with Cindy.
>>
>>5445053
tldr
>>
>>5445054
Fair, but also not the first time I’ve done this in the thread, much less the quest.
>>
>>5445059
OK Sakurautist
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>>5445053
>She may even be upset at getting her voice back, but not being able to fight for it herself.
Are you the anon that didn't wnat to try and give her voice back with this same spill before? Because that was disproven when we sugested it and she was happy with the idea, and only didn't like Phin's solution because the only device that somehow worked was very unconfortablr and weird.
>>
>>5445024
>Find some time alone with her and give her a heartfelt apology.(Write-in optional)
Alright, time to dust off the old keyboard...
>"I...I want to apologize for what I said. I lashed out and said something completely uncalled for. I'm not gonna pretend like I know what you're going through, but I didn't mean to dredge up any bad memories or belittle you because of it."
>"On that note, I never wanted to put you through all this stress in the first place, but that doesn't change the fact that I did. While it may not seem like it now, I appreciate it. Really, I do."
>"When this is over, I want to make it up to you. Words are good, but I know you have high expectations of me, otherwise you wouldn't have put up with my shit in the first place. If nothing else, I wanna try and be better to you and Julia going forward."
>"I don't expect you to think I'm telling the truth here, but I needed you to hear this all the same."
No excuses like "I was touchy because it's a family issue" or "this is technically our job". We're not dodging it and we're telling her that we're not gonna pull this shit again in the future.
>>
>>5445072
Different anon. I’m still generally for all of this, Ben’s just been an idiot with phrasing recently (and I remember him thinking “oh she’ll never hate me” like a clueless parent) so I’m worried he’ll put his foot in his mouth with Cindy somehow.

I don’t remember Phin’s device. Was that a little after fighting vampires or something?

>>5445114
May as well support the local write-in economy, especially when I’m too tired to properly build my own.
>>
>>5445138
Just checked the archive, it was on thread 2, post 5241960
>>
>>5445142
Well before I joined then. Some anon mentioned the Ben 10 quest Scorekeeper ran and I figured I’d take a detour and read that before continuing with this. “What’s a little distraction?” I thought. “It’ll be a short trip,” I told myself.

Yeah, that diversion took much longer than expected. There’s a part of me that still expects threads to be /tg/ length when I look over the number of threads…
>>
>>5445026
>>5445041
>>5445045
>>5445053
>>5445114
>>5445138
>Find some time alone with her and give her a heartfelt apology.(Write-in optional)
>"I...I want to apologize for what I said. I lashed out and said something completely uncalled for. I'm not gonna pretend like I know what you're going through, but I didn't mean to dredge up any bad memories or belittle you because of it."
>"On that note, I never wanted to put you through all this stress in the first place, but that doesn't change the fact that I did. While it may not seem like it now, I appreciate it. Really, I do."
>"When this is over, I want to make it up to you. Words are good, but I know you have high expectations of me, otherwise you wouldn't have put up with my shit in the first place. If nothing else, I wanna try and be better to you and Julia going forward."
>"I don't expect you to think I'm telling the truth here, but I needed you to hear this all the same."
>Have everyone stop working for a day or two so that she can finally relax. Maybe you can have a movie night.

I appreciate the write-ins and consideration going into these votes lately.

>>5445146
Oh, wild. You read the whole thing? It was my first quest, and I made a ton of mistakes that I regret, but it's all part of the learning process. The highest hurdle for me was probably the power creep that comes with a setting like that. Protag generally didn't have to worry about most things because the Omnitrix was OP. If I had to change anything, I would've definitely introduced some of the counter mechanics a lot earlier, and skipped to the new road trip content before I put it on ice.
>>
Thankfully, it wasn't terribly hard for you to corner the old lady. She wasn't too prone to moving around, and she wasn't a terribly social creature. In fact, you found her sprawled out in her golden throne, all alone in her study.

There was evidence of Julia having been here, as she was the only company that the psychic could tolerate most of the time. The nature of their relationship was still strange to you, as neither had ever truly gone into detail. They didn't seem to share any familial connection, but Julia nonetheless treated her with the utmost respect.

When you entered the lab, Madame Webb didn't say a word, or make any outward sign that she had noticed your presence at all. But the slight inclination of her head told you that she had indeed noticed, and was even inviting you to approach her. Not a terrible sign.

"I…I want to apologize for what I said." you began, hoping you sounded genuine. "I lashed out and said something completely uncalled for. I'm not gonna pretend like I know what you're going through, but I didn't mean to dredge up any bad memories or belittle you because of it."

She turned to face you completely now. You had her full attention.

"On that note, I never wanted to put you through all this stress in the first place, but that doesn't change the fact that I did." you continued. "While it might not seem like it now, I appreciate it. Really, I do."

Madame Webb sat up straighter, and you could see some of the tension leaving her shoulders.

"When this is over, I want to make it up to you." you said, maintaining your momentum. "Words are good, but I know you have high expectations of me, otherwise, you wouldn't have put up with my shit in the first place. If nothing else, I wanna try being better to you and Julia going forward."

Madame Webb remained silent, her store boring into you as she considered you with that unreadable expression of hers.

“I don’t expect you to think I’m telling the truth here, but I needed you to hear this all the same.” you concluded, looking back at her hopefully.

Cassandra breathed out through her nose and sat back in her chair once more. A tiny, sincere smile was playing at the corners of her lips.

“Thank you, Ben. That…that means a lot. Especially because I know that you mean it.” she said softly.

“Right. Psychic.”

(Cont.)
>>
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She nodded. “I must admit that your words gave me pause, earlier. They made me wonder about whether I was simply projecting my own experiences onto your ward.” she admitted, looking slightly abashed. “I have never truly felt limited by my disability, as I have been thoroughly compensated for it with my considerable resources and psychic affinities. There was a part of myself that felt ashamed and embarrassed at my own boorishness, but I simply couldn’t stop feeling bothered by the whole affair. I cannot claim to fully understand how the girl might really feel about her situation.”

“Neither can I.” you agreed. “I’m only doing what I think is right.”

“That is all any of us can do, Mr. Parker.” she said. “While I appreciate your words, you are not entirely at fault. It is no secret that my behavior has been…erratic as of late. I do not like having all of these people in my house, invading my privacy, moving things around.”

There was a clear note of agitation in her voice.

“However,” she continued, with some difficulty. “I do know that it’s necessary to whatever it is you seek to accomplish. And as such, I cannot bring myself to hinder your progress.”

“Thanks. I really appreciate you doing this.”

She shook her head. “I assure you that I’m not much of anything. All I ask is that you prepare yourself for the consequences, should this operation go wrong.” she said. “And...protect the girl. She has been having a very positive effect on you, from what I can tell. Someday, I think you will be surprised to learn what it is you are truly capable of.”

You nodded, despite being confused by that last cryptic comment of hers.

“Very good.” said Cassandra, sounding pleased by the outcome of this conversation. Then, she glanced around in confusion before continuing. “It’s been awfully quiet today. Is there a particular reason why?”

You grinned at her. “We’re taking a break. Wanna join us for movie night?” you offered.

Madame Web let out a chuckle, half delighted and the other half surprised. “Well now, what genre of film will we be watching tonight?” she asked.

>Monster movie marathon! It should take the edge of a bit, considering how you’d be facing a real monster soon.
>Old classics. Some of the people downstairs consider themselves to be part-time film critics, and you figured they’d enjoy this.
>Action movies! They’re easy to watch, and you won’t feel bad about talking over them.
>Some drama series that Cindy recommended a few days back. More than anything, it should at least inspire some friendly speculation and conversation in between episodes.
>Write-in.
>>
>>5445785
>Some drama series that Cindy recommended a few days back. More than anything, it should at least inspire some friendly speculation and conversation in between episodes.
Do it for her.
>>
Also, who will you sit next to during the marathon?

>Rintrah, Sun King and Nico. The three of them seemed to have bonded during their time conducting magic study.
>Marc, Tigra and Louise. You got the distinct impression that the vampire hunter didn't entirely enjoy being a third wheel to the other two's flirting.
>Madame Web, Reese and Julia. In your personal opinion, the household hacker was pretty damn hilarious when she wanted to be. She should have some great commentary on whatever you watched.
>Write-in.
>>
>>5445796
>Madame Web, Reese and Julia. In your personal opinion, the household hacker was pretty damn hilarious when she wanted to be. She should have some great commentary on whatever you watched.
I was gonna suggest hanging from the ceiling, but then I remembered that watching movies upside down is a pain in the ass.
>>
>>5445796
>Marc, Tigra and Louise. You got the distinct impression that the vampire hunter didn't entirely enjoy being a third wheel to the other two's flirting.
Ben to the rescue
>>
>>5445785
>Monster movie marathon! It should take the edge of a bit, considering how you’d be facing a real monster soon.
>Madame Web, Reese and Julia. In your personal opinion, the household hacker was pretty damn hilarious when she wanted to be. She should have some great commentary on whatever you watched.
Really MST3K this shit up. C- and D-list monster movies to really take the piss out of.

>>5445719
Yeah, end to end. The beginning was incredibly rough for me, especially since I was used to your current style and the start was very “okay, you did the thing and this happened, wat now” in length. I got past it though. Even though I didn’t really watch any Ben 10 past the original!

Your style started getting recognizable after maybe thread 7 or so? I figured your style would keep improving until it became easy to read in my downtime, and having such a long backlog is a plus given how much I read here.
>>
>>5445785
>>>


Old classics. Some of the people downstairs consider themselves to be part-time film critics, and you figured they’d enjoy this.

Key Largo, CItizen Kane and Rope by Alfred Hitchcock
>>
>>5445796
>>Marc, Tigra and Louise. You got the distinct impression that the vampire hunter didn't entirely enjoy being a third wheel to the other two's flirting.
>>
Score, I’d like to run a quest of my own one day and I’d like some input as to how you plan your stuff out. Should I ask here or would you rather answer in the qtg?
>>
>>5445790
>>5445826
>>5445830
>>5445863
>>5445892
>>5445893
So far, we've got:

2 votes for
>Madame Web, Reese and Julia. In your personal opinion, the household hacker was pretty damn hilarious when she wanted to be. She should have some great commentary on whatever you watched.

2 votes for
>Marc, Tigra and Louise. You got the distinct impression that the vampire hunter didn't entirely enjoy being a third wheel to the other two's flirting.

And individual votes for
>Some drama series that Cindy recommended a few days back. More than anything, it should at least inspire some friendly speculation and conversation in between episodes.
>Monster movie marathon! It should take the edge of a bit, considering how you’d be facing a real monster soon.
>Old classics. Some of the people downstairs consider themselves to be part-time film critics, and you figured they’d enjoy this.

Would any of you like to change votes, or would you like me to roll a die to decide?

>>5446319
Uhh, no I can answer here. So, I mentioned a bit about it early on in the quest. I have a list of events that WILL happen, and a list of events that CAN happen. For a universe that's already pre-built, I find myself doing constant research, since I want to do these characters and their history justice(I have a shit ton of wiki tabs open right now). This is especially important since I plan on involving legacy characters as these characters begin to age, and a new era of heroes and villains rise to take their place. If you're doing OC, I don't think you'll have as much of a problem with this.

I've had quite a few plans that I've had to scrap, or rework for later use. I feel like the most important thing is to be fluid in your planning. If you really wanted something to happen, but the direction of the votes is pushing strongly against it, then you just might have to try and work something else out. I'm constantly wondering how to make the side characters in this quest more interesting. Heroes and vigilantes will plot and scheme, just the same as the villains and criminals. I'm not saying that everyone will get a major arc, but you'll run into some people more than once, even if you aren't explicitly going out of your way to meet them.

I really wanted to make this city feel alive, as if it were a living, breathing entity. Random encounters are some of the most fun, because the Marvel community is so diverse and rarely explored. It's part of why I've been using more mystical aspects in my plot points. There are so many aspects of the Marvel and Spider-Man mythos that I think deserve more recognition or attention, and I want to use them to create an unforgettable experience.

There's actually a lot that I want to accomplish here, but I have to pace myself, since a good chunk of these events require certain characters to be older than they are already. Pacing is just as important as planning imo. It can make or break the story in some cases.

Also, what quest are you planning on making?
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>>5446430
I can change to watch old classics, Rintrah should like watching Casablanca
>>
>>5446430
I didn't vote yet, didn't have much time and didn't feel the consequences to be too high, so let me do the tiebreaker (even though my IP always changes and it looks weird to have a single post ID do so)
>>Madame Web, Reese and Julia. In your personal opinion, the household hacker was pretty damn hilarious when she wanted to be. She should have some great commentary on whatever you watched.

>>5446439
and while I wait for captcha to load someone votes too.
so I only do the character vote then
>>
>>5446443
Hey, vote for what you wanted to, I can take back my vote change.
>>
>>5446449
nope, especially since it was what you voted out of
go old classics now
>Old classics. Some of the people downstairs consider themselves to be part-time film critics, and you figured they’d enjoy this.
>>
>>5446443
>>5446449
>>5446462
Cool. I'll post an update as soon as I'm able
>>
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“Some old classics. Rintrah’s gonna shit himself when he sees the movies we picked out.” you said with a laugh.

Madame Webb chuckled as well. “I should hope not. That rug downstairs is a favorite of mine.”

—---

After helping the woman downstairs, you, Julia and Reese let her get settled in a comfy chair that shouldn’t hurt her back. Then, you looked around the room to check whether everyone was present.

Rintrah was practically vibrating with excitement. He must’ve caught wind of what was going to happen. Nico was poking fun at him, and Sun King was casually laughing along with her. The giant green bull was naked as always, but Nino was wearing another one of her long, lacy black dresses. Her gothic attire and dark makeup was almost in direct contrast to Sun King’s outfit, which looked like something he had pulled out of the bottom of his closet.

Somewhere nearby, Tigra was aggressively flirting with Marc, and he didn’t seem to mind receiving her attention at all. Louise, on the other hand, was undoubtedly trying to ignore both of them. At some point, teasing Marc just stopped being fun, and Tigra didn’t seem to have enough shame to feel embarrassed about any of it. The feline meta was wearing a low-cut, purple cotton shirt, with black tights that showed off her appealing figure. Marc was dressed as Mr. Knight, but without his mask, which was probably as casual as he was going to get on a night like this.

Louise was far more casual in her style of dress, as she wore a brown, faded cardigan, a striped, black and white tee and a beanie to cover her hair. She cast a pleading look in your direction, likely hoping that you’d rescue her from her predicament, but her gaze turned dark when her eyes locked onto the vampire sitting beside you.

Her eyes narrowed slightly, and she turned away with a frown. You were certain that she wouldn’t look in your direction any more than she absolutely had to. It was only a slight comfort that you knew her resentment wasn’t reserved for you.

Reese let out a frustrated sigh and turned away.

“She has no right to look at me like that.” she grumbled. “I haven’t had a single drop of fresh, warm human blood in my entire undead life, and the girl acts like I'm bleeding a cow right in front of her!”

Julia patted her on the shoulder. “She’s a vampire hunter, Reese. From a…secret society that’s dedicated to hunting and killing vampires! You couldn’t have really thought that the two of you would be besties, did you?”

The vampire sighed. “I was this close to not showing up at all.” she said, pinching her sharp fingernails incredibly close together. “But Marc made her swear not to attack me, so long as I don’t give her a reason to. I’d never hurt another living creature for food.”

Madame Webb raised her head slightly, looking concerned.

“And you haven’t eaten in quite some time. Is that going to become a problem?” she asked.
>>
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Reese shrank in her seat, looking slightly embarrassed. “No. Well…yes. I…I think it might be.” she admitted. “Mark and Rintrah keep offering to help me get some, but…I don’t like drinking blood in front of other people. It’s gross, and messy, and…I just don’t like the way people look at me when they see me covered in blood like that. Like I’m some kind of dangerous animal that broke out of the zoo.”

You all sat in silence for a while after that, before Madame Webb spoke up again.

“Regardless of how unpleasant it might be, you must take care of yourself, girl.” she advised. “For your sake, as much as ours…”

The true meaning of her words sank in immediately. None of you could afford to have the vamp go into a blood frenzy in the middle of the operation. She’d either kill someone, seriously injure them, infect them with her blood curse, get herself killed by Louise, or all of the above.

Reese’s claws scraped against the wood of the table for a brief second, but she quickly retracted them as soon as she realized what she was doing. She cast a nervous glance at Julia, who was mirroring her expression, and then to Cassandra, who didn’t seem terribly concerned about the state of her expensive table at the moment.

“R-right. I’ll take care of it. I promise.” Reese swore. And with that awkward moment passed, your movie night commenced with a mixture of excitement, laughter and nervous anxiety. The lights dimmed, and the projector kicked on with a quickly formed spell from Nico’s staff.

Just like you promised, you’d prepared a classic from a free movie site that you liked to use from time to time. And when the title of the movie rolled onto the projector screen, the sitting room was physically shaken with the force of Rintrah’s ecstatic, bestial roar!

“Key Largo”. An old film with Humphrey Bogart as the lead actor. You knew Rintrah would flip his shit, but you weren’t expecting this strong of a reaction from him. A mixture of surprised laughs and poorly suppressed chuckles from everyone else followed in its place. With a smile, you got up as silently as you could and went to grab refreshments from the kitchen.

You took it upon yourself to make a few trips back and forth, delivering snacks, pouring drinks and collecting used trash. Tonight, you were going to make sure that everyone, including Madame Webb, had an amazing time tonight. Every now and again, you’d bump shoulders with some of the others on our team. Louise pestered you until you helped her bring out some of Cassandra’s wine. Nothing terribly expensive or valuable, but nothing so cheap that it’d detract from the experience.

The alcohol only seemed to increase the intensity of Moon Knight and Tigra’s flirting, and on multiple occasions, you caught them sneaking away from the group, and was even unlucky enough to stumble upon one of their more intense make-out sessions.

(Cont.)
>>
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Louise seemed grateful for the peace and quiet, but she’d still try to whisper to you whenever she caught a moment alone with you. She seemed to be enjoying Sun King’s company as well. The strange pyrokinetic had drifted over to her area after losing interest in Nico and Rintrah’s banter. You doubted that the minotaur could get drunk very easily, and you weren’t entirely sure how old Nico was, so you only gave her soda.

You could’ve sworn that you saw her sneak a red cup or two while she thought you weren’t looking, but you decided to let it slide, and not upset the dangerous witch. God knows that you were up to no good at that age, so you didn’t have much room to judge.

Julia was well into her cups by the time that the first movie was coming to a close, and her good cheer seemed to have infected all those around her. Reese was smiling without reservation now, no longer bothering to hide her sharp fangs. Alcohol seemed to affect her just the same as everybody else, but like Rintrah, her constitution was more resilient than most. She was bubbly and buzzed, whereas Jules was beginning to drift closer and closer towards the firm territory of “sloshed”. She nitpicked every little thing about the movie, which seemed to both annoy and amuse Madame Webb at the same time.

The old woman was drinking slowly, breathing in its notes and flavors, and savoring every sip. Even during informal gatherings, she maintained a certain type of dignity and elegance.

As the night went on, and the next movie on your playlist started, you began to realize that Madame Webb’s drinks were a bit stronger than you’d anticipated. You’ve never been a lightweight, and your super spider physiology only served to boost your metabolism to insane levels. Meaning that if you did manage to get drunk, you’d have to make an effort to maintain the buzz. And with slightly impaired judgment, came unusual behavior.

Usually, you were respectful of your peers, in the way that you wouldn’t say or do anything terribly inappropriate if they weren’t comfortable with that sort of behavior. Black Cat had a flirty personality, and you’ve explored Anastasia’s body thoroughly at this point. It was okay to let loose with them a little.

But as the night went on, those thoughts became more and more present in your mind. You weren’t a horndog by any means, but you couldn’t call yourself a warm-blooded male if you didn’t admit to yourself that the women in this room were looking damn fine right about now.

The feisty redhead by your side was getting increasingly familiar with you as her sense of reason slipped away with each passing hour. She was funny, cute, and a decent conversationalist. You were probably going to have to carry her upstairs after this.

Reese was fairly pretty as well, now that you were able to get a better look at her. She had a slim figure with sharp facial features, and you liked the way that her eyes glittered in the candlelight.

(Cont.)
>>
Glancing around as casually as you could, you caught sight of Louise, lounging back in her bean bag chair, slipping some popcorn into her mouth and staring at the big screen. You’d always thought that she was rather cute, and you loved her accent, but every time you met, there was some sort of supernatural crisis going on, so you were never truly able to appreciate it.

Looking past her, you spotted Nico. She was quite the looker herself. Dark makeup, gothic clothing, Asian features, severe expression and all; she was, without a doubt, quite beautiful. But the question of her age made you hesitate in your thoughts and actions. She did look rather young for an adult.

You looked around for Tigra as well, before remembering that she was probably still off somewhere sucking face with Marc. So, you returned your attention to the people present in the room.

Would it even be a good idea to fraternize with your associates? Complications always made things messy. It should’ve been an obvious decision, but your head was swimming for some reason. The air smelled sweeter, and you felt a heady rush of bravado welling up from within the pit of your stomach. It was hard to describe the feeling that you were having. Anastasia's face flashed into your mind for a moment, but it was getting easier and easier to fantasize about something more exotic and within immediate reach.

What will you do?

>Try to put the moves on someone. Maybe you'll get lucky.(Who?)
>Shake it off and put away the drinks for now. You'll have to cut everyone off if you want to avoid the potential mass hangover in the morning. Water for the rest of the night!
>Sit back, relax and enjoy the moment. No need to complicate things and get in the way of someone else's good time.
>Try to gauge how everyone else is feeling. Maybe you weren't supposed to touch this bottle in particular.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5447304
>>Shake it off and put away the drinks for now. You'll have to cut everyone off if you want to avoid the potential mass hangover in the morning. Water for the rest of the night!
>>
>>5447304
Try to put the moves on someone. Maybe you'll get lucky.(Who?) Julia
>>
>>5447304
>Sit back, relax and enjoy the moment. No need to complicate things and get in the way of someone else's good time.
We really should talk to Ana how our relationship is supposed to work first.
>>
>>5447393
>>5447304
>>Shake it off and put away the drinks for now. You'll have to cut everyone off if you want to avoid the potential mass hangover in the morning. Water for the rest of the night!
Meant to vote for this
>>
>>5447304
>>Shake it off and put away the drinks for now. You'll have to cut everyone off if you want to avoid the potential mass hangover in the morning. Water for the rest of the night!
>>
>>5447304
>Shake it off and put away the drinks for now. You'll have to cut everyone off if you want to avoid the potential mass hangover in the morning. Water for the rest of the night!
>>
>>5447304
>Sit back, relax and enjoy the moment. No need to complicate things and get in the way of someone else's good time.
>>5446430
I was thinking of a quest set in the Avatar: TLA universe.
>>
>>5447797
Just know that with ATLA, you're stepping into cursed territory thanks to SOMNIUS.
I'd say the same for DBZ, but GrandDragon managed to rescue the setting's reputation somewhat over the last 5 years.
>>
>>5447304
>>Shake it off and put away the drinks for now. You'll have to cut everyone off if you want to avoid the potential mass hangover in the morning. Water for the rest of the night!
>>
>>5447305
>>5447406
>>5447409
>>5447536
>>5447896
>Shake it off and put away the drinks for now. You'll have to cut everyone off if you want to avoid the potential mass hangover in the morning. Water for the rest of the night!

The last few days have been pretty busy for me, so I'm gonna try to get back on track. Gonna start writing after a quick nap. Once again, sorry for the delay.

>>5447797
Ooh, nice! I actually had an idea for a premise set 200 years after Korra's era.

>>5447867
QRD?
>>
>>5448505
From what I can tell from skimming suptg, a guy called SOMNIUS ran an Avatar quest back in 2014 and fucked his quest up by succumbing to trolls and punishing his players unjustly. The thread in question has -21 votes on it, which is pretty telling.
>>
>>5448505
SOM was a prominent QM back in the day who had popular quests in popular settings, but something of an ego. I believe Avatar Quest ended when the Earthbending main character fell into a hole abruptly because SOM was annoyed about something.
>>
>>5448604
>>5448615
Damn. My only experience with SOM was a distinct memory where he hopped into a quest that I was playing and started antagonizing the QM. I guess they had some beef beforehand, or were part of the same discord server.
>>
Before this could go any further, you shook your head furiously and rose from your seat. There was something seriously wrong here. Without warning, you went around the room and started confiscating cups and bottles. There were, of course, protests and complaints, but you paid them no mind. For each and every cup you confiscated, you replaced it with a glass of cold water.

You don’t need anyone here waking up with a hangover, or making a huge mistake while under the effects of…whatever that was. For the remainder of the movie marathon, the mood in the room was a bit more somber. And an hour or two later, you all decided to call it a night, cleaning up around the sitting room and retiring to your own respective rooms.

—---------

The next morning, your head felt clear again, and you were no longer being accosted by overly indecent thoughts of your teammates. Absently, you wondered if anyone else was experiencing the same thing that you were, but thought it best not to bring it up at all. So long as it didn’t happen again, of course.

—-----

Despite you having to cut the fun short with your chaperone act, the general mood within the mansion seemed to have noticeably improved. People were talking more animatedly and freely. The barriers that separated them before, such as differences in upbringing, former and current allegiances, and methods of operation were swiftly being torn down. Of course, some barriers were a little too big to be brought down in one night.

Louise and Reese still weren’t really talking or looking at each other very much. But you felt like they were spending more time within a far closer proximity than they had before. The Nightguard was no longer hiding from everyone else and shooting dirty glances at the red-eyed receptionist.

When they noticed you, everyone thanked you for putting in the effort to give them a good time. They didn’t seem to care too much that you’d rained on their parade towards the end. Rintrah was especially cheery. His efforts towards finding rare ingredients were being redoubled, and his booming laughter was hearty and strong.

More than anything, though, you were glad to see that Madame Webb was looking better. Her complexion was still a bit pale, and her face a bit gaunt, but there was vigor in her slight movements. Julia was equally relieved and pleased to see her eating again, and she made that clear from the way she was trying to coddle the old woman.

Feeling satisfied, you informed everyone that you were going to spend some time helping Terminal tail his targets. Madame Webb agreed to manage things while you were gone, and after a hearty breakfast and a quick shower, you headed out into the city to meet up with the assassin.

—--------

An hour later, you and Terminal were standing in an alleyway, watching people pass by on the street without noticing either of you.

(Cont.)
>>
“That one?” you asked, pointing at a young woman with platinum blonde hair and a pink miniskirt. Both you and Terminal came to the conclusion that the SIlvertongue is most likely possessing a female body, since it stole Cindy’s voice, and that would fit it the best.

Terminal shook his head. “Nope. That one.” he said, pointing a clawed finger at a short girl. She had pale skin, jet black hair reaching down to her back, and round, hooded eyes. The girl was shorter than average, but she seemed to carry herself with a confidence that made her seem taller than she really was.

“You think she’s the Silvertongue?” you said.

Terminal shrugged. “She fits the bill. I can sense something foreign in her body. Something that isn’t supposed to be there.”

“And the other two?”

“Nothing special about them aside from a few illegal implants.” he casually concluded. “But I think this chick has got something else going on.”

“Let’s try not to lose her, then.” you declared, before pulling yourself into the air with a webline and taking to the skies. You moved with grace and preternatural speed, hopping from building to building in the blink of an eye, trying not to be seen by anyone on the ground. Drawing attention to yourself was not an option today.

You didn’t know how, but Terminal reassured you that he was keeping track of you the entire time, and to not worry about him while you were tailing the girl. Over the next two hours, you were surprised to see that she wasn’t doing anything terribly unusual for a young woman. She went into a few shopping centers, ate out at a popular cafe, and strolled through the city as if it were her own backyard.

Just when you were starting to get bored, however, you noticed that she took a detour into a nearby park. This made it much harder to follow her, since there weren’t any tall buildings to zip between, so you had to be extra careful, leaping from tree limbs to tree limb.

A couple times, she glanced around, checking to see whether she was being followed or scrutinized by anyone in the immediate area, before continuing on her journey. It was then that you realized that she was about to do something that she wasn’t supposed to. A rush of excitement coursed through your mind, and you struggled to dampen your enthusiasm, lest it make you sloppy in your pursuit.

At some point, she ventured off into an underpopulated section of the park and disappeared around a corner. A moment later, you followed her, only to find that there was nothing there! She had disappeared!

Did the Silvertongue catch wind of you somehow? Where did you mess up? Was it going to disappear now that it realized you were hunting it?

Struggling against the despair and frustration threatening to tear you down, you closed your eyes and sank into your spider sense. The same way that you had during your fight with that skateboard guy—the Night Thrasher.

(Cont.)
>>
All sounds and sensations fell away except for your psychic connection to the Web. You focused on the distant potential dangers lurking within the city. Somewhere out there, you felt the familiar looming dread of Terminal’s presence. He was far enough away that you didn’t really have to worry about him, but the thought of something so dangerous walking among you was terrifying in and of itself.

You focused on pushing your senses deeper and further and…you felt something. It was faint, but clearly a potential threat. It was…underground?

You stumbled around, feeling for secret passages or hidden doors, but found nothing so obvious. However, when you went to touch the nearby wall connected to the bridge above you, your hand sank in several inches! You yanked it away quickly, flexing your fingers in confusion and examining the wall closely.

“Terminal,” you whispered into your comm. “The target’s disappeared, but I think I know how to find her. I’m not sure how good my reception’s gonna be in there, so I’m letting you know now.”

“Roger that. I’ve got a bead on your current location.” he confirmed. “Try not to die. It’ll be a pain to pick up the trail again if you do.”

It shouldn’t have been a comfort, but knowing that the Silvertongue would have to deal with a walking, radioactive biohazard if it got the jump on you was slightly reassuring.

You took a deep breath, steeled your resolve and placed another hand on the wall. It rippled and flowed like a liquid, but it seemed to have a slightly squishy consistency.

“Alright. I’m going in.” you declared, before plunging your arm into the thing. It felt like reaching into a pool of jell-o.

After a few seconds, you confirmed that you arm hadn’t disintegrated or been crushed, and you put a leg in. A few seconds later, you slipped a portion of your torso into the gelatinous wall, and finally, your head. All sound and light was muffled and smothered for several excruciating moments, and you began to worry that you’d be trapped in here forever. But soon enough, you were slipping out through the other side, strands of wall still clinging to your body as you emerged with a wet squelch.

Beyond the wall, you saw a long, dark tunnel, submerged in inky darkness. As the prospect of stumbling around in the dark didn’t appeal to you, you took the risk of activating your spider signal and shined it around the room. It appeared to be an unused part of the subway system, long abandoned like some ancient, decrepit catacomb. Glancing around, you spotted something glinting in the distance.

Slowly, carefully, you approached the object. It was a large, iron gate with a cluster of metal snakes interwoven through its bars in intricate patterns. There didn’t seem to be a key anywhere, and you couldn’t see a way to open it that didn’t involve force. You were certain that the girl passed through here.

(Cont.)
>>
What will you do?

>Pull out for now. You’ll try to catch her on the way out.
>Try to bend the bars as discreetly as you possibly can.
>See if you can’t find a way around the gate.
>Call in backup.(Who?)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5448685
>>Call in backup.(Who?)
Louise or MK, they should know how to deal with magical lairs and defenses
>>
>>5448685
>Pull out for now. You’ll try to catch her on the way out.
Do not enter the enemies lair
unused part of the subway system? If only we knew of some people who are at home down there.
>Call Callisto to find out everything she knows about these parts of underground
>>
>>5448698
+1
>>
>>5448685
>Call for backup.
Callisto for general knowledge since it’s underground (“Hey, know about any snake temples in your area?”) and Louise, Rintrah, MK etc. to see if they have an idea of what this is. If this is something unrelated to the Silvertongue that could explain the foreign substance, we can disregard her.
>>
>>5448698
+1
>>
>>5448685
>Try to bend the bars as discreetly as you possibly can.
We waste time here, we ight lose her trail.
>>
>>5449478
yeah, but we know the secret identity of the woman it's posessing. I have no doubt we'll find it again
>>
>>5448698
>>5448708
>>5449474
>Pull out for now. You’ll try to catch her on the way out.
>Call Callisto to find out everything she knows about these parts of underground

Taking these. Writing...
>>
You didn’t think you could slip past this gate without damaging it, which would alert the Silvertongue to your presence. And you really didn’t like the idea of delving into the lair of an evil monster without any backup. It could be a trap.

After a minute or two, you thought it best to pull out for the time being. But not before taking a few pics of the gate with your AR goggles.

—--------

Once you were outside, you sent a quick report to Terminal to let him know that you had pulled out in order to observe the situation from afar. Hopefully, the woman from before will come out the same way that she entered.

While you waited, you decided to give Callisto a call. She might know something about the history of those tunnels, and what might be down there.

It took a few tries before he finally picked up, and you were forced to remember that she probably had to walk about a mile or two just to answer it. But when she answered it, she didn’t sound agitated by the prospect of getting a little extra exercise.

“Yeah?”

“Hey, Callie. Got a minute?” you asked.

“I might. What do you need?”

“I found some abandoned subway tunnels over by Morningside Park. There was this weird illusory wall that I slipped through, and it led me towards a flight of stairs. From there, I ran into this freaky serpent gate. Know anything about it?”

Callisto made a thoughtful noise. “There shouldn’t be anything down there. Those tunnels flooded a while back, and they haven’t been used since.” she explained. “If there’s someone or something hiding in those tunnels, then they must really not want to be found.”

“Do you think you could look into it for me?” you asked.

“I’ll see if I can get the Deep One to give it a look. She’s been itching for some action.” Callisto said.

“Don’t I know it.” you sighed. “Thanks. Let me know if she finds anything.”

“Will do. Try not to do anything stupid.”

You laughed. “Hi. Have we met?”

And just like that, she hung up on you, and you were left with nothing but your own thoughts for company. Terminal would bug you every now and again, deprived of human interaction as he was, and you humored him to the best of your ability.

After a few hours of this, however, you were rescued from the monotony of small-talk by the sound of Julia’s voice.

“Hey hey. How goes the stakeout?” asked a pink wizard hat icon in the top right corner of your HUD. “I see you’ve taken some pics. What’s this all about?”

“Some weird snake gate was separating me from the target after she fled underground. I was gonna show it to the others to see if there was anything distinctly magical about it.” you said.

“I’ll pass it along. Hope you don’t mind if I do some research of my own. Haven’t had much to do lately.”

“Knock yourself out.”

(Cont.)
>>
File: 70100-o.png (176 KB, 448x384)
176 KB
176 KB PNG
Once again, you were plunged into an uncomfortable silence for a few more hours. Still, no movement. Had you and Terminal lost her already? Was there another entrance that you didn’t know about?

“I’ve got bad news, Benji.” Julia began. “I don’t think that gate’s magical.”

“Why’s that bad news?” you said.

“Because,” she continued, with a clear note of worry in her voice. “I think I know who might have made it. Ever hear of the ‘Serpent Society’?”

You thought for a moment, then shrugged. “No? Should I have?”

“Probably not. They’re super secretive.” Julia added. “But more than that, they also happen to be one of the most dangerous and well organized criminal organizations out there!”

“So our target’s actually a member of this ‘Serpent Society’?”

“It might be worse.” Julia said. “This thing could be hiding out among them, using the Society as cover.”

“So if we attack the Silvertongue, then we might piss off the Serpent Society?”

“That’s what I’m thinking.”

Hmm. Now this really did complicate things.

What will you do?

>”What else can you tell me about the Serpent Society?”
>”We might need more backup.”(Call in someone else?)
>”They might have a lot of resources, but do you think we can take them in a straight-up fight?”
>”I think we might’ve lost the target. Can you get the others to do a sweep of the area?”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5449590
>”I think we might’ve lost the target. Can you get the others to do a sweep of the area?”
>”What else can you tell me about the Serpent Society?”
>>
>>5449590
One thing to take on a single powerful creature, completely different thing to try and take on an evil secret society. We might have even already triggered a warding spell which they won't stamp out as a coincidence if another warding spell was triggered elsewhere by Deep One
>Call Callisto again and warn Deep One about there probably being magic users. Treat carefully
>”What else can you tell me about the Serpent Society?”
>”We might need more backup. Even bigger guns.”
Big magic himself, Dr. Strange?
I don't want to call in WAND, as they might snatch the silvertongue away before Cindy's voice can be extracted or even try to stop us from the mission itself, like Pandora already told us in the beginning.
>>
>>5449607
+1
>>
>>5449590
>>5449607
+1
We can have Rintrah try and talk with Strange. Everyone else can reach out to anyone they think might be interested.

I wonder if Khonshu knows anything?
>>
>>5449681
Let's punch khonshu in the face. He probably caused this somehow anyway
>>
>>5449700
I mean, I’m not opposed. But I would prefer to wait until he explains and gives us a specific reason to punch him. It’s only proper.
>>
>>5449607
>>5449611
>>5449681
>Call Callisto again and warn Deep One about there probably being magic users. Tread carefully
>”What else can you tell me about the Serpent Society?”
>”We might need more backup. Even bigger guns.”

Taking these. Writing...
>>
File: Black_Mamba_002.jpg (294 KB, 720x1280)
294 KB
294 KB JPG
“Gimme one sec…” you said, before calling Callisto again. When she answered, you were grateful to learn that the Deep One hadn’t left to investigate the tunnels yet. She was just coming back from another mission that the Morlock leader had sent her on, and was slightly disappointed to realize that she wouldn’t get a chance to relax.

But her interest was piqued upon realizing that the request came directly from you. Callisto gave her your warning, and the nightmarish siren began her journey to the flooded tunnel.

“Sorry. Back now.” you told Julia. “What else can you tell me about the Serpent Society?”

“They started small, as several iterations of a criminal group called ‘The Serpent Squad’, and expanded from there. After a few good investments, some help from the Roxxon Oil Company and a very successful recruitment drive, their leader, Sidewinder, managed to convince a bunch of mercs, crooks and assassins to join his little club.” she explained. “The only catch was—and you might have guessed this on your own—you had to have a snake theme.”

“I’m shocked. Speechless, even!” you said in a flat tone.

“Yeah? Well hold onto your mask, because they’ve got some muscle on their side.” she continued. “Anaconda: Big, muscular dommy mommy with stretchy arms and a penchant for strangling her foes.”

A profile popped up in the corner of your vision, displaying a blonde woman with a strong jaw and powerful features.

“Black Mamba: Seductive snake lady that uses something called the ‘Darkforce’. I don’t understand it too well, but I’d bet she’s dangerous.”

A photo of an attractive young woman with long, dark hair and a green, serpentine circlet showed up under the first image.

“Death Adder. An amphibious killing machine with sharp fangs, deadly claws, and a whip-like tail that he can use as a weapon.”

A cold chill ran down your spine.

“That thing can breathe underwater?”

“Yup. Why?”

“I need you to send word to either Callisto or the Deep One.” you demanded. “She needs to know before it’s too late.”

“Got it. Sending a message to Webb, now. She should be able to relay a mental message to them soon.”

You breathed a sigh of relief. “Thanks. Are there any others I should be aware of?”

“Oh, yeah! We’ve only covered the founding members so far.” Julia replied. “There’s Asp: Sensual belly dancer/energy projector/snake charmer. Her venom bolts have been said to paralyze her targets, while prolonged exposure has led to more than a few untimely deaths.”

Right beneath Death Adder’s profile, a photo of a beautiful middle eastern woman with long, jet black hair popped up.

“Bushmaster: Half-man, half-bionic killer snake. He’s got a giant tail and blades that pop out of his arms.”

(Cont.)
>>
File: Rattler.jpg (102 KB, 1024x571)
102 KB
102 KB JPG
A photo of a bald man with dark skin and pale eyes popped up under Asp.

“King Cobra: He can stretch and flex his body at unnatural angles. Be careful with that one.”

A man with large, goofy goggles and a padded snake suit with wide, flapping neck frills filled your vision.

“Cottonmouth: He’s got a bionic jaw that can unhinge far enough to allow him to swallow an entire human head! It can also crush iron and solid concrete.”

You shuddered at the imagery as the profile of yet another man wearing a goofy snake outfit was added to the roster.

“And last, but not least, we have the ‘Rattler’.” Julia concluded. “He’s got a tail that can send powerful vibrations up to 25 ft, crush objects between 8 and 18 inches in diameter, and hold up to 300 lbs.”

The profile of an extremely muscular creature with sharp teeth and slitted pupils joined the line-up of snake-themed villains on the right, and you were left feeling flustered by the sheer size of their roster. This was…a lot. A team of villains you could deal with. But this was almost like fighting a fucking private army of super-powered mercenaries!

“We might need more backup. Even bigger guns.” you declared, unable to stop yourself from sounding exasperated.

“Damn right we do.” Julia agreed. “It might be worth considering the Avengers hotline. This seems like a job for them.”

“They'll never get here in time." you grumbled. You knew better than anyone that superhero response times were oftentimes abysmal at best. "We still have Dr. Strange! We can get Rintrah to bring him here.” you suggested.

“That’s an option, sure.” Julia offered. “But we might have to consider the possibility that the Sorcerer Supreme has bigger things to worry about right now. We should keep our options open.”

You nodded solemnly, before remembering that she probably couldn’t see you. “Do the others know anyone?”

“I can ask. Moon Knight probably has some connections to some of the other heroes and vigilantes.” she thought aloud. “Nico has her little friends that she pals around with, but I don’t know how I feel about getting kids involved.”

“And Louise has her order. The Nightguard.” you said.

“She did say something about a superior that she talked to about coming here to help.” Julia added. “It might be worth looking into.”

(Cont.)
>>
Who will you call?

>See if you can’t get Rintrah to bug Wong until Dr. Strange shows up.
>Convince Nico to bring the rest of her friends onboard.
>Help Louise get in touch with her superior. The pending vampire invasion can wait for a few nights.
>Go with Moon Knight to meet a few friends that might be interested in helping.
>Call up some of your personal allies.(Who?)
>Call in S.H.I.E.L.D.and W.A.N.D. This situation is getting too big for them to ignore. There’s no way they can send you away when you’re on the verge of discovering a conspiracy.
>Hit up the Avengers hotline. This definitely classifies as an emergency.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5450059
have rintrah to talk to wong to at least send a message to strange, try the avengers hotline and then go with MK.
>>
>>5450059
>>5450063
+1
>>
>>5450059
>Go with Moon Knight to meet a few friends that might be interested in helping.
>>
>>5450059
>Go with Moon Knight to meet a few friends that might be interested in helping.
>>
>>5450059
>Go with Moon Knight to meet a few friends that might be interested in helping.
>>
>>5450063
>>5450199
>>5450285
>>5450427
>>5450451
>Go with Moon Knight to meet a few friends that might be interested in helping.

Taking these. Writing...
>>
“I’ll try to figure out whether Moon Knight knows anybody that wants to help.” you declared.

“Got it. I’ll let him know.” said Julia’s icon.

“Thanks a million.” you replied, before switching over to Terminal. “I’ve gotta head back now to deal with something. Do you think you can handle things from here?”

“I’ll let you know if I pick up the trail again.” he said with a rasping cough. “Shouldn’t be too hard now that we know who she is.”

That’s assuming you really have the right person. If you’re wrong about this, and you antagonize the Serpent Society for no good reason…

You shake your head to clear it and thank Terminal for his service, before leaping back towards the nearest tree leading back into the city. Thinking like that won’t help anybody.

—--------

Instead of meeting MK back at the mansion, the two of you agreed to meet each other at the rendezvous point that he specified. Now, maybe it had something to do with the superhero/vigilante track record of meeting on rooftops at night, but that’s exactly what you were expecting from the Fist of Khonshu. But when the location turned out to be a local diner in Brooklyn, and you were forced to realize that standing on top of such a low building would only draw further suspicion, you hesitantly came down to enter in through the front door like a normal person.

The sign said closed, and the inside of the establishment looked nearly deserted, but Moonie’s text clearly stated that you were allowed to enter, just the same as everyone else. And so with hesitation, you entered “The Other Place”.

A soft bell rang as you pushed open the door, and a middle aged black woman with an afro turned to meet your gaze. She was standing beside a table where Marc sat, in his Mr. Knight outfit, minus the mask. The man was admittedly much more casual about taking it off than any other cape you’ve encountered.

“Don’t worry, Gena. He’s with me.” Marc said, placing a reassuring hand on her arm.

Gena nodded hesitantly and stepped back so as to allow you to sit down across from the man. You did exactly that, casting a wary glance around the room in the time that it took you to cross the distance between you and the booth. As you made yourself comfortable, Marc slid a menu over to you.

“Can I, uh…get you boys anything?” Gena asked nervously. “Coffee?”

You almost refused the offer on principle, but Marc felt the need to answer for you.

“One for both of us, thanks.”

The waitress nodded and headed back into the kitchen. The only other person in this diner besides the two of you was an old man with a colorful patchwork vest and long gray hair. He had his back turned to you, but you could tell that he was paying close attention to everything that went on in the diner.

Marc seemed to notice where you were looking, because he passively waved off your unexpressed concerns.

(Cont.)
>>
“He’s a friend.” he said, with no further explanation.

You nodded slowly. “I hope he isn’t one of the guys you’re trying to recruit.”

Marc chuckled and steepled his hands. “No. I’m afraid Crawley’s never been much of a fighter.”

You were about to reply, but a sudden vibration from your phone drew your attention away from the conversation. It was Cindy.

“It’s almost time to take my entrance exam!” she began in text. “Been trying to cram with Victoria. Stressing out right now!(﹏)”

You laughed to yourself and quickly shot off a reply.

“You’ll do fine! You’re a smart kid, and you have a really good tutor.”

“Yeah, but this is an ELITE private school. I’ve never had to worry about actually qualifying for anything before.”

“Just take a moment to breathe. Inhale slowly for 6 seconds, and then exhale slowly for 8 seconds. It’ll slow down your heart rate and help calm you down.” you advised.

You waited for about a minute before your phone chirped again.

“Okay.” Cindy said. “I think it’s working. Sorry about that.”

“Not a problem. I’m sure you’ll do fine.” you replied.

“Thanks! Are you still busy with that job of yours?” she asked.

You paused before sending your reply. Cindy was starting to express interest in the Desperado’s dealings ever since the bank job. It didn’t take her long to connect it to you and the others, and the two of you got into a bit of a heated argument about it.

You made sure that no one was seriously injured, but she didn’t seem to be pleased by the fact that you put innocent lives in danger in the first place. She was convinced that one little mistake could’ve easily led to immediate tragedy. And considering the amount of gunfire and the violent crashes that occurred that day, you were unable to come up with a convincing argument to counter her point.

After that, she’d stopped speaking to you for almost two weeks. It took a lot of work to weasel your way into her good graces again. So, you and the others decided to take a break and focus on other things for a while.

You had been purposefully vague about the nature of this mission because you didn’t want her getting involved. And you would explain everything after you’d accomplished what you set out to do. Until then, however, you would continue being evasive. It was the only way to keep her safe.

“Unfortunately, yeah. I owed someone a huge favor, and they’ve got me working double overtime.” you lied. “But I’m trying to finish up as fast as I can so that I can see you on the day of your exam.”

As you wrote it, you knew somewhere deep down that things wouldn’t be that simple. Your life has never been that convenient.

“Gotcha. I hope you can make it.(ɔ◔‿◔)ɔ ” she said.

“Me too, kid.” you muttered.

(Cont.)
>>
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The sight of Gena returning with two steaming cups of coffee brought you back to reality. You both graciously accepted them and thanked her for the service.

“Everything alright?” Marc asked.

“Hm? Oh, yeah.” you said quickly. “Everything’s fine.”

Just then, the bell above the door rang several times, and multiple costumed figures entered the diner.

Your eyes widened at the sight of two very recognizable figures approaching your table.

“Luke. Danny. Glad you could make it.” Marc said in a respectfully formal tone.

A large, muscular, bald black man loomed over you, placing a massive hand on the back rest beside you.

“Ain’t no way I’m squeezing my ass in there.” he said, glancing down at you.

“Lets just sit here instead.” said a far more tranquil voice. You looked over to see a tall white man wearing a rumpled suit and a yellow half-mask with cloth strips cascading down his back. He had light brown hair peeking out through the bottom of his mask, and a bit of stubble on his chin.

Luke nodded and pushed off of the seat to sit at the round table in the middle of the room. You gave Marc an incredulous look, but he either didn’t notice, or chose to ignore you. After a minute of shuffling around the room and gathering chairs, the four of you sat at a table in awkward silence, the only other sounds in the room being the radio gently playing in the corner of the room, and Gena pouring you all a fresh cup of coffee.

“Who’s the new guy?” Luke asked, nodding to you.

“Huntsman.” you answered as calmly as you could manage. “And you’re Luke Cage.”

Luke raised an eyebrow.

“And you’re Iron Fist.” you said, glancing at the other man. “How do you know Moonie here?”

“We’ve teamed up a few times.” Danny answered. “He’s done some work for the Heroes For Hire, and we all saw some action together when he was one of the Defenders.”

You nodded, not entirely familiar with the latter, but all too aware of the former’s dealings. Running into the Heroes for Hire was what most common crooks dreaded. Most normal people had no chance at all against a man like Luke Cage, who’s impenetrable skin could ward off almost any attack without difficulty. And the Iron Fist was well known for being untouchable in martial combat. You weren't at a level where you could contend with someone like him. Not yet, at least.

“You on any teams?” Luke asked.

“Not any that you’d know about.” you answered evasively.

Another awkward silence fell over the group, until Luke finally got fed up and returned his attention to Marc.

“Are you planning on telling us why we’re really here?” he demanded.

“Just waiting on two more people.” Marc replied, taking a small sip of his coffee. “Shouldn’t be long now.”

(Cont.)
>>
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“Is it Bobbi?” Danny asked.

“I didn’t ask her to come. We don’t want S.H.I.E.L.D. involved in this one.” Marc answered.

Both men glanced between you and Marc with questioning looks on their faces.

“So…Clint’s not coming, either?” Luke concluded.

“Nope.” Marc said simply.

“Then who do we got?” Luke asked, sounding agitated again.

Almost on cue, the bell above the door rang once more, and a surprisingly familiar masked face entered the diner.

“The Devil of Hell’s Kitchen. So glad you could make it.” Marc said, raising his cup to the man.

A confused Matt walked further into the diner, glancing around curiously, before letting his unseeing gaze rest on you.

“Marc. Huntsman.” he said flatly. “And the Heroes for Hire. It’s been a while.”

Luke loudly clapped his hands together. “Now, we’re talking!” he happily exclaimed. “Daredevil! How’ve ya been, you son of a bitch?” Luke greeted him, acting as if they were old friends.

“Been better. Can’t complain.” Matt said with a smile. “It sounds like you’ve been taking care of yourself.”

“Didn’t I tell you to stop listening to my heartbeat? You know that shit creeps me out.” Luke said, clapping him on the shoulder.

“Someone has to look out for your health if you won’t.” Danny calmly cut in. “Those experiments gave you unbreakable skin, not an invincible heart and liver.”

The three shared a laugh that only old friends who knew each other well could share. It only now occurred to you that you’ve never seen Matt interact with other heroes that often. Mostly because you tried your bets to avoid them most of the time.

“Where did you get those bruises from?” Danny asked, squinting at the exposed flesh beneath his mask.

Matt gave you and Marc a knowing look before answering. “I’m getting beaten up by a little girl every other day.”

Before anyone could pounce on such a golden opportunity to take the piss out of the “Man Without Fear”, the bell above the door rang once more.

Your jaw dropped as a tall, leggy blonde entered the diner. She wore a tight fitting black leotard that outlined her well toned muscles, circular metal plates over her breasts, and silver metal bracelets on her wrists. Her hair was tied into long, thick braids that slung over her shoulders, and she had a dangerous looking sword poking out from over her blue cape.

The woman’s eyes were a similar shade of blue, and she swept them over the room until she located Marc. It was as if you were witnessing something that had jumped off the pages of a story book. The woman was sculpted from something far finer than any of you, and all of you knew it.

In just a few long strides, she was standing beside the table, silently assessing all of you one by one.

“I received your message.” she said, in a thick Scandinavian accent.

(Cont.)
>>
Everyone stared at her, and then at Marc.

“Thank you for coming, Valkyrie.” he said, inclining his head gratefully. “That’s everyone.”

What will you say?

>”How’d you get all these people to show up on such short notice?"
>"How do you know this one?"
>"Damn. You weren't kidding when you said you were breaking out the big guns."
>"This might actually be a bit overkill. Is the Serpent Society really that dangerous?"
>"I see I'm not the only one with connections at this table."
>"So...has anyone thought of a cool name for this team yet?"
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
Man, the formatting has been kicking my ass today. Haven't made that many mistakes in a while
>>
>>5450659
>"I see I'm not the only one with connections at this table."
Who's Nico again. Soo many people to remember
>>
>>5450662
Ah also tell Valk nice Accent. We got a thing for those
>>
>>5450659
>"Damn. You weren't kidding when you said you were breaking out the big guns."
>"So, what did you tell them Marc? Do we need to go over the whole briefing or just the key points?"
>>
>>5450662
Nico Minoru, aka "Sister Grimm". She's a young, unaffiliated magician that specializes in Blood Magic. She lacks a formal education in the arcane arts, so she usually has to lean on her magic staff, the "Staff of One" to do most of the heavy lifting. It lives in her blood, and seems to have a will of its own. Nico is a core member of the super team known as the "Runaways", and does odd jobs to raise money for their continued survival.
>>
>>5450674
Thanks, and oof I just saw the Contact list. Sorry m8
>>
>>5450659
>>5450662
>>5450671
Backing both of these.
>>
>>5450747
what about >>5450666
>>
>>5450659
>>5450666
Adding this to >>5450747 per >>5450753, why not?

She’s not really my type, but since Ben’s had fun with Ana it’s a fair thing to note.
>>
>>5450753
>>5450758
I think we should not flirt until we go over the details with Ana.
Ben already put his foot in his mouth and fucks up enough as is.
>>
>>5450760
it's harmless flirting, you're not a khlv right?
>>
>>5450671
+1
>>
>>5450763
What the fuck is khlv.
>>
>>5450767
kissless handholding virgin
>>
>>5450768
Do not insult me by implying I have handholded.
>>
>>5450771
lol k
>>
>>5450773
It was a joke by the way, I'm not angry or anything.
>>
>>5450659
>"Damn. You weren't kidding when you said you were breaking out the big guns."
>”How’d you get all these people to show up on such short notice?"
>>
>>5450928
I know bae
>>
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>>5450662
>>5450666
>>5450671
>>5450764
>>5450747
>>5450758
>>5451075
>"Damn. You weren't kidding when you said you were breaking out the big guns."
>"I see I'm not the only one with connections at this table."
>Compliment Valkyrie on her accent.
>"So, what did you tell them Marc? Do we need to go over the whole briefing or just the key points?"

Taking these. Writing...

>>5450677
It's cool. There are a lot of characters being introduced right now. I should probably start adding descriptions or profiles to the people in the contacts list at some point.

>>5450768
>>5450771
>Mfw there are handholders in this thread
You guys are gonna get me banned again
>>
You whistled. “Damn. you weren’t kidding when you said you were breaking out the big guns.” you said, not bothering to hide the fact that you were eyeing up Valkyrie. Look at those pythons!

“I see I’m not the only one with connections at this table.” you continued before glancing up to meet the impressive woman’s eyes. “Love the accent by the way.”

She turned to meet your gaze, a single, perfectly manicured eyebrow raising in what you hoped was amusement. This lady was like a sphinx. You couldn’t get a read on her.

“Keep it in your pants, Hunter.” Luke quipped.

“What? I’m just being friendly.” you said innocently.

“Uh-huh.” Matt relied, not sounding convinced in the slightest. It didn't help that he was a living lie detector.

“So, what did Marc tell you guys about the job?” you asked, trying to change the subject. “Do we need to go over the briefing, or just the key points?”

“He told us that the Serpent Society was involved, but not much else.” said Danny.

“I thought Huntsman would like to explain the rest in person.” Marc offered, gesturing towards you with an open hand.

You nodded, and began explaining everything you could about the Silvertongue situation without incriminating yourself or revealing Cindy’s identity. The expressions on the other’s faces cycled between angry, shocked, and horrified. Matt had a lesser reaction, because he knew part of the story already. But even he couldn't hide his surprise when you announced that the Silvertongue could be hiding within the Serpent Society.

After you were done explaining, everyone was sitting down and quietly thinking to themselves. Well…almost everyone.

“So what do you want us to do about it?” Cage asked. “Because I don’t think you called me over here to knock politely on their front door.”

You blinked at him. He didn’t seem terribly distressed by the prospect of having his native language stripped away from him. Come to think of it. Neither did Danny or Valkyrie.

Both were clearly disturbed, sure. But they weren’t at all unwilling to help.

“This foul creature shall pay for what it has done!” Valkyrie declared. Her expression conveyed something far deeper and more potent than anger. It was steely resolve and confidence. Confidence that she would put the one responsible for Cindy’s ailment to the blade if it was the last thing she did.

“Such a thing cannot be allowed to exist.” Danny agreed.

Huh. There really is something to this superhero shit, after all.

(Cont.)
>>
How will you handle this operation?

>Find their base and kick their front door in!
>Find their base and sneak inside. You might be able to get the jump on them.
>Dismantle their organization one snake at a time, with organized strikes.
>Wait until the Silvertongue is alone, and then jump her! You can deal with the Society after you have your target in custody.
>Focus on recon, for now and take things slow. You’re still waiting on the Deep One to get back to you with that intel.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5451162
>>Focus on recon, for now and take things slow. You’re still waiting on the Deep One to get back to you with that intel.
>>Wait until the Silvertongue is alone, and then jump her! You can deal with the Society after you have your target in custody.
We got to make sure, if the Silvertongue slips away than it was all for nothing
>>
>>5451162
>Find their base and kick their front door in!
We got a pretty good confirmation of the target, plus a series of strikes is only gonna let the Silvertongue know something's up ahead of time.
We gotta go in and secure it before it has a chance of running away.
>>
>>5451162
>>Find their base and kick their front door in!
>>
>>5451163
+1; leave NO chances. The Silvertongue is priority, but the Serpent Society are not.
>>
>>5451163
+1
>>
>>5451163
+1
>>
>>5451162
Go HAM. I'm worried about the deep one.
>>
>>5451162
>>5451163 +1
>>
>>5451163
This.
>>
>>5451163
>>5451271
>>5451384
>>5451393
>>5451845
>>5451910
>>Focus on recon, for now and take things slow. You’re still waiting on the Deep One to get back to you with that intel.
>>Wait until the Silvertongue is alone, and then jump her! You can deal with the Society after you have your target in custody.

Taking these. Writing...
>>
“We keep a low profile and focus on recon for now.” you declared. “I’m still waiting on intel from one of our allies to confirm a few things.”

Like whether this is actually the Serpent Society you're dealing with. But you’ll keep that to yourself for now. Showing a lack of confidence or conviction now would agitate the others.

“As for the Silvertongue, I think we should wait until she’s alone before we attack. We can deal with the Society after we have her in custody.”

“And what are we supposed to do until then?” Luke asked. “In case you haven’t noticed, I’m not the best at sneaking around.” he said, gesturing to himself.

“Remain on standby. Me and the capture team will handle the recon.” you replied.

Luke folded his arms, Danny and Matt nodded, and Valkyrie seemed more than a little disappointed that she wouldn’t get to fight the creature anytime soon.

After that, you gave them the location of Madame Web’s mansion, in case of emergencies, and exchanged contact information with Luke and Danny.

Well, it was more like a general hotline for the “Heroes for Hire”. Danny didn’t really pay much attention to his phone, apparently.

As for Valkyrie, she neither owned a phone, nor did she know how to operate one. You actually had no idea how Marc had even contacted her in the first place. Hopefully, he’ll know how to reach her in case of an emergency.

-------

At some point during the meeting, you had to step out to accept a call from the sewer phone. But to your surprise, it wasn’t Callisto that spoke when you answered. It was the signature gargling rasp of the Deep One!

“Hello, pretty thing. Did you miss me?” she said with a hungry growl that was probably meant to be a seductive purr.

“More than you know.” you said with a sigh of relief. “Are you alright? What’d you find out?”

“Well, it was more like something found me!” she said, sounding surprised even after the fact. “Something with teeth, claws and scales. Bigger than a sewer gator. Meaner too.”

Your heart rate quickened as you imagined the worst possible outcome. Did the Deep One get ambushed by Death Adder? Have they found out that you’re watching them?

“Are you sure you’re alright? Nothing followed you back?” you asked.

The Deep One let out a hiss that you recognized as the precursor to a chuckle. “Please. He might have ambushed me, but I’m the one that sent him packing. Gave him something to remember me by too.” she said, continuing her slightly slurred, hissing chuckle that was interrupted by a genuine pained hiss. “But, I uh…I think he had some sort of poison coating his claws. Fast-acting too. Could barely swim straight on the way back.”

(Cont.)
>>
You heard something getting knocked around on the other end of the line, and then a curse from the Deep. “Blood’s not clotting like it should. The wound is taking too long to close. God, he probably had some on those fucking tail spines too! Should’ve…ripped the damn thing off…”

She was definitely slurring her words more often now.

“Deep?” you said, as calmly and cautiously as you possibly could. “Are you absolutely positive that you’re okay?”

“Sort of. Bleeding a lot. Callie’s gonna be pissed.” she said with a weak laugh. “Just need some time in a saltwater bath. It’ll hurt like a bitch…but it should get the job done.”

You grit your teeth. You should’ve told her to pull out as soon as you learned about Death Adder.

“I know I shouldn’t be asking you this now, but…did you get a good look at your attacker?”

“I’d say so.” she snarled. “He was butt ugly. He should be down here instead of me.”

She laughed weakly again, and gave you as accurate a description as she could manage. Upon checking Death Adder’s profile picture, you were equal parts relieved and horrified to learn that her attacker had indeed been the amphibious Serpent Society member. They were definitely here in the city.

“Hope it helps. I wasn’t actually able to overhear what they were talking about down there. The fish fucker got to me first.” Deep added. “He was silent as death, that one. They should put a…bell on him.”

The woman was very clearly in pain, and trying her best to downplay it.

What will you say?

>”Thanks for everything, Deep. Now please, go get yourself patched up.”
>”I owe you one. Seriously, whatever you want, I’ll get it for you.”
>”I’m sorry, Deep. I shouldn’t have sent you in there before we could find out more.”
>”Is there anything I can do? Maybe I can help you get to one of those ‘saltwater baths’? Or, I don’t know, an actual fucking doctor?”
>”What’s your honest assessment on Death Adder? Do you think you could take him in a straight fight now that you know about the toxins and tail?”
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5452026
>”Thanks for everything, Deep. Now please, go get yourself patched up.”
>”I’m sorry, Deep. I shouldn’t have sent you in there before we could find out more.”
>>
>>5452030
+1, this is on us
>>
>>5452026
”I owe you one. Seriously, whatever you want, I’ll get it for you.”
>”I’m sorry, Deep. I shouldn’t have sent you in there before we could find out more.”
>”Is there anything I can do? Maybe I can help you get to one of those ‘saltwater baths’? Or, I don’t know, an actual fucking doctor?”
>>
>>5452026
>”Thanks for everything, Deep. Now please, go get yourself patched up.”
>”I’m sorry, Deep. I shouldn’t have sent you in there before we could find out more.”
>>
>>5452026
>”I’m sorry, Deep. I shouldn’t have sent you in there before we could find out more.”
>”Is there anything I can do? Maybe I can help you get to one of those ‘saltwater baths’? Or, I don’t know, an actual fucking doctor?”
>”What’s your honest assessment on Death Adder? Do you think you could take him in a straight fight now that you know about the toxins and tail?”
>>
>>5452030
>>5452036
>>5452155
>>5452275
>>5452725
>”Thanks for everything, Deep. Now please, go get yourself patched up.”
>”I’m sorry, Deep. I shouldn’t have sent you in there before we could find out more.”

Taking these. Writing...
>>
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“I’m sorry, Deep. I shouldn’t have sent you in there before we could find out more.”

She made a low hiss that you recognized as her scoffing. “I’m a big girl, Huntsman. I can make my own decisions. And going into those tunnels tonight was one of them.” she said. “Besides, you did tell me about the amphibious one! I just…didn’t expect him to get the drop on me like that. My mistake.”

“Thanks for everything.” you said gratefully. “Now, please, go get yourself patched up.”

“Feel free to send a gift basket down my way when you…get the chance. I tend to get hungry when I have to regenerate lost tissue and muscle fiber.”

You were going to reply with a snappy remark, but the call dropped before you could. Her time must’ve run out on the call. It was probably for the best. Any longer and you would’ve started to worry about the long term effects of her injuries.

She sounded fairly confident that she would more or less make a full recovery, so you weren’t as stressed out as you’d normally be. Although, that poison must be something else. The Deep One has a superhuman constitution and metabolism, and you’ve never seen her get sick from…well, anything really.

You’ll have to be careful of that in the future.

—-----

After you came back inside, all eyes fell on you, and the conversation slowed to a crawl. From the bits and pieces you’d gathered on the way in, they were discussing the plans for the ambush, and any potential fallback plans, should a confrontation with the Serpent Society become unavoidable.

>Will you add anyone to the ambush team?(Luke/Danny/Valkyrie/Matt)
>How do you plan to capture and deliver the Silvertongue?(Write-in.)
>What should the remainder of your team be doing in the meanwhile?(Standing by/Researching the Serpent Society’s members/Fortifying Madame Webb’s mansion)
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5452832
Get the original capture team (Moon Knight, Louise, Terminal) to help as well, either to directly join the ambush, or standing by to drop in and get the Silvertongue while the ambush team deal with any serpent reinforcement.
If the magic prep team is done, have them help with defenses or research about the serpents members, since there won't be only magical attacks.
Julia should continue research on the serpents.
Warn Webb of this development, it's her home after all.

The plan to get the silvertongue is to ambush it while it's away from the rest. Use any wards, to stop spells, stuff it's mouth with our webs and shove it into the thing we bought from Phin.
If it doesn't separate, than try to make it seem like it's an attack on the serpent society from a bunch of heroes, so it doesn't feel like it needs to reveal it's magic, and try to drag it away so the capture team can do it.
>>
>>5452832
>>5452836
I mostly agree, but I want Matt on the capture team. He can percieve things most can't.
Webb is allowed to voice her doubts and we could find another location, but we will also need to be sure not to be followed and have countermagic ready against tracking spells and similar things when the serpent society looks for the silverongue.
>>
>>5453029
Support
>>
>>5452832
>Put Matt on the Capture team. His acute senses should give you plenty of warning should any unexpected guests arrive.
>Capturing the Silver tongue should be relatively simple. Gather the Capture team behind the wall she phased through last time and block off any exits before it can attempt to escape. From there it's just a matter of restraining it physically and\or magically before making a beeline to Webb's manor.
>The remainder of the team should focus on fortifying the manor itself. If the Serpent Society decides to intrude on the operation, it's probably not a bad idea to have a fortified position to make a break for.
>>
>>5452836
>>5453029
>>5453083
>>5453102
>Get the original capture team (Moon Knight, Louise, Terminal) to help as well, either to directly join the ambush, or standing by to drop in and get the Silvertongue while the ambush team deal with any serpent reinforcement.
>Put Matt on the Capture team. His acute senses should give you plenty of warning should any unexpected guests arrive.
>The plan to get the silvertongue is to ambush it while it's away from the rest. Use any wards, to stop spells, stuff it's mouth with our webs and shove it into the thing we bought from Phin.
>If it doesn't separate, than try to make it seem like it's an attack on the serpent society from a bunch of heroes, so it doesn't feel like it needs to reveal it's magic, and try to drag it away so the capture team can do it.
>If the magic prep team is done, have them help with defenses or research about the serpents members, since there won't be only magical attacks.
>Julia should continue research on the serpents.
>Warn Webb of this development, it's her home after all.
>Webb is allowed to voice her doubts and we could find another location, but we will also need to be sure not to be followed and have countermagic ready against tracking spells and similar things when the serpent society looks for the Silverongue.

Taking these. Roll me 1d100+10, bo3! That should decide whether you were able to get the jump on the Silvertongue or not!

I'll write and post the rest after I've gotten a bit more sleep.
>>
Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>5453852
>>
Rolled 49 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>5453852
>>
Rolled 87 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>5453852
come on, something better than 50
>>
>>5453895
considerable better than 50
>>
>>5453896
It's reverse day anon...
>>
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>97

Mentally, you ran through the plan again, just to make sure that there weren’t any glaring flaws to address.

For the most part, you were planning on keeping the original capture team the same, with the exception of including Matt. His acute senses should be useful for scouting out in the field.

In order for this plan, you’ll need to get the Silvertongue away from the rest of its allies. You’ll need to use any wards, curses, or jinxes to try and prevent it from casting spells. Hell, you might even web its mouth shut just to be safe.

If the thing doesn’t want to separate from the pack, then you’ll just do your best to stage it as an attack on the Serpent Society themselves. Marc’s friends should be able to provide a decent amount to cover while you and the capture team single out the Silvertongue.

And since the magic prep doesn’t have a whole lot to do until the creature is detained, they can spend the rest of their time doing research on the Serpent Society and fortifying Madame Webb’s mansion even further.

Julia would pretty much be on full-time research duty, since she was the most effective at it.

You’d have to warn Madame Webb of these developments, of course. This was her home, after all, and you didn’t want to overstep your boundaries anymore than you already have. Even if that meant that you had to relocate to another stronghold. Although, you really hoped that it wouldn’t come to that.

—------

Over the next few days, you and Webb oversaw the final phases of the planning stage, making absolutely certain that there wouldn’t be any hiccups when the time to restrain the Silvertongue would come.

The magic team felt as if they had done everything they could in the way of preparing alchemical reagents and drawing ritual circles. The mansion was properly warded against most forms of damage, but could only withstand so much before they would fail. Louise and Rintrah were the only ones who knew what they were doing when it came to warding, and neither of them claimed to specialize in the craft.

And when they weren’t triple checking wards, they were aiding Julia in her Serpent Research. The homebound hacker was confident that she had pulled a great deal of information on the Society’s regular members, as well as detailed records of their dealings with Roxxon Corp.

Normally, you would’ve been more excited about that last part, but Julia’s recent discovery left you feeling troubled.

There were more members of the Society that aren’t listed in any official capacity. They’re far more discreet in the way that they move and operate. Names like “Diamondback”, “Black Racer”, and “Puff Adder” pop up regularly, but no further information could be extracted through normal means.

To everyone's surprise, the best news came when you met with Callisto to pick up something "important". And when said item turned out to be a barb from Death Adder's barbed tail, you rushed it to Rintrah for alchemical testing as soon as possible.

(Cont.)
>>
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Apparently, the Deep One had managed to full one out as a souvenir for later. With time, you might be able to concoct and antidote for the potent toxin.

—-----

Thankfully, Madame Webb didn’t feel obligated to throw you out on your ass when you made even more outrageous demands. You could tell that she was bothered by the wanton molestation of her and her late husband’s home, but she also knew how important all of this was. You would definitely have to do more to pay her back in the future.

You spent almost all your time shadowing Terminal and helping him trail the Silvertongue suspect. Neither of you ever saw her do anything inherently magical, but you were certain that she was being more careful than she had been on that first night when you spotted her.

Either the attack on Death Adder had spooked her, or she noticed something when you passed through that illusory wall. Rintrah and Nico speculated that such an old creature would probably be an experienced ward crafter, and you didn’t doubt that this thing was keeping an eye out for anything remotely suspicious.

So, you took it slow and tried your best to stick to the shadows. It didn’t look like she had caught on to what you were trying to do, but you didn't want to take any chances. All it would take is one mistake for it to bolt and go underground again.

With those thoughts in mind, you gave your teammates an assessing glance.

Marc’s clothing was darker than usual, a sign of the Jake persona taking over his body. You weren’t worried, though. Every single one of his personas seemed to understand how serious this was.

Louise’s appearance had come as a much bigger surprise, however. She wore her usual dark robes, but had armor plating woven in to protect her more vulnerable areas. It was very similar to Marc’s usual costume in form and function, and you had a feeling that he helped her design the thing for this very occasion.

She looked less like a cute nun and more like a paladin in riot armor now.

Terminal looked the same as ever, wearing his skintight bodysuit that put his ribs and sickly constitution on full display. Matt’s discomfort with his presence was made evident by the amount of space between them at all times.

According to him, the diseased assassin shouldn’t be alive, or even standing upright, considering the state of his internal organs.

To say that this was an unusual team would be a massive understatement, but their devotion to the cause was inspiring, to say the least.

Nodding at all of them, you all stared down at the street below, where a familiar, petite woman with dark hair confidently strode through the city. The only time the Silvertongue seemed to be by itself was in broad daylight. It stuck to busy streets and almost never went down back-alleys or shady streets.

That last fact left you all feeling rather frustrated, since it meant that your only chance would come when there were other people around.

(Cont.)
>>
What will you do?

>Jump her in the middle of the city and try to detain her before she can get her bearings.
>Try to steer her into a more secluded area.
>See if you can’t nail her with a Pym Pebble from this distance.
>Wait until there are less people walking around. There will be less casualties, but a larger chance of Serpent Society interference.
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5454417
Scared me, just from the thumbnail I thought that was carnage
>>
>>5454420
>Try to steer her into a more secluded area.
>Wait until there are less people walking around. There will be less casualties, but a larger chance of Serpent Society interference.
Cindy wouldn't forgive us if innocents were hurt while trying to cure her
>>
>>5454429
Support
>>
>>5454420
>Wait until there are less people walking around. There will be less casualties, but a larger chance of Serpent Society interference.
>Try to steer her into a more secluded area.
>>
>>5454420
>>5454429
Supporting.

I’m wishing we could have tried something to steer her more directly, like approaching her openly with some money and saying we’d like to hire some of her friends, with the cash being a down payment for putting us in touch with them. But with the recon we did that alerted them to people snooping around, I think she’d be too paranoid to buy it.
>>
>>5454420
>>Try to steer her into a more secluded area.
>>
>>5454429
>>5454436
>>5454439
>>5454502
>>5454671
>Try to steer her into a more secluded area.
>Wait until there are less people walking around. There will be less casualties, but a larger chance of Serpent Society interference.

Taking these. Writing...

>>5454502
That would be an interesting tactic to pursue. It might be more effective if you approached another member, so it seemed like you were less interested in her in particular.

>>5454425
Not yet. I'm gonna give Ben a bit more time and room to breathe before then.
>>
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“Let’s wait a bit. We shouldn’t engage it with all these people around.” you declared. “We might hit someone, or lose her in the crowd.”

Matt gave you a subtly grateful look, and Louise and Terminal seemed to agree with your judgment. The only one that didn’t seem at all phased by the change in plans was Moon Knight. You weren’t sure if that was just due to Jake’s personality being in charge, or if the other personas agreed with this sentiment. You’d like to think that it was the former, but then again, Matt did say that this guy had once been a face carving maniac.

“I think we might be able to steer her into a more secluded area.”

“You’re thinking of causing a few ‘accidents’ here and there?” Terminal asked.

You nodded. “If we can do it without anyone getting hurt, that’d be preferable.”

Terminal shrugged and turned around to pick something up. It was a sniper rifle so large and powerful looking that you thought it might snap his spindly arms upon firing. Matt and Louise goggled at him, but Moon Knight seemed to be mildly amused.

“Don’t worry.” Terminal said with a cough. “I didn’t cough on these rounds, so the infection won’t spread.”

Unsurprisingly, no one was reassured by this. Not seeming to notice, the assassin raised the scope up to his eye and slowed his breathing. And after about a minute, he pulled the trigger. Matt was already moving to stop him, but Moon Knight stopped him with an arm. To your surprise, the rifle didn’t make nearly as much noise as it should have. A light pop, a brief flash, and the deed was done. Your head whipped around to try and find his target, but you couldn’t see or hear anyone screaming down below.

“What were you aiming at?” Matt demanded.

“Wait for it…” Terminal teased.

And almost on cue, you saw a yellow fire hydrant burst into a geyser of white, foaming water. Cries of alarm and yelps of surprise filled the immediate area, and everyone turned to look at Terminal.

“Don’t look at me. Look at her.” he said, pointing at the target.

She was clearly power walking away from the scene, trying to put some distance between herself and whatever had caused the event. Most New Yorkers knew to start running when shit started exploding. It was a pretty human reflex at this point, ingrained in nearly ever civilian that had been alive for an alien invasion or a supervillain terrorist attack.

“It’s gonna be tricky to try and get her to go where we want.” Terminal pondered aloud. “And if we keep doing that, then she’ll figure out that something’s going on.”

“Then we should endeavor to be more discreet next time, non?” Louise said with a raised eyebrow.

“She’s getting away.” Moon Knight put in, before leaping from the rooftop and gliding over to the neighboring building.

(Cont.)
>>
Matt looked like he had something to say, but he simply followed behind the vigilante and jumped from the roof. You and Louise were right behind them, you firing a webline, and her spreading her arms to let the wind catch in her newly modified cape.

None of you waited for Terminal, knowing full well that if he wanted to catch up, he would find a way.

—------

Over the next few hours, you and the others struggled to drive the Silvertongue away from highly populated areas without having her detect your presence. You tried to keep it to a minimum, since having her spot you before you had a chance to spring your trap would ruin the entire plan.

Fortunately, it would seem that Terminal’s efforts had at least affected the Silvertongue’s mental state, as she sought locations that offered her more cover in her day to day commute. More than anything, you were surprised by the sheer amount of walking that this woman was doing in one day. It was like tailing an overeager tourist with a limitless amount of energy.

Finally, she reached an area with minimal foot traffic, and decent cover. The sun was beginning to set over the horizon, and the others were starting to get antsy.

“She has placed a ward on herself.” blurted Moon Knight.

Everyone turned to stare at him.

“Pardon?” Louise asked.

“Khonshu tells me that she is surrounded by a magical barrier. It must be broken before we can attack her.” he explained.

“And how would we go about doing that?” Matt said.

“Brute force would be preferable.” he replied. “Hit her fast, and hit her hard.”

You nodded and placed a hand to your ear. “Terminal, do you think you could fire off a few shots at our target?” you asked.

“Weren’t we trying to take her alive?” he inquired, sounding perplexed.

“We are, but she’s got a magic barrier surrounding her. I want to see how well it holds up against that gun of yours. If it doesn’t work, then we’ll just have to improvise from there.”

There was silence on the other end of the line for a few moments, and when Terminal spoke again, his voice was low and serious.

“Got her in my sights. Just give the word.” he confirmed.

You glanced around at everyone else, knowing that they had grasped the situation from the bits and pieces of your conversation. They all looked as ready as they’d ever be.

“Take the shot.”

A crack, a flash of light, and a shattering sound were the only sensations that mattered in that moment. The Silvertongue fell over, and for a brief second, you could see a faint, pale outline surrounding her body. The shot had failed to kill, or even wound her, but the force of it was enough to knock her off her ass.

The four of you exploded into motion, pouncing like a tiger lying in wait for its prey. You and Matt were on the ground first, with Moon Knight and Louise still gliding down from above.

(Cont.)
>>
File: Spoiler Image (1.27 MB, 1431x804)
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Another crack, another shattering sound, and the Silvertongue’s body was pushed further down the street. She struggled to her feet, clearly disoriented by the surprise attack. It didn’t take her long to adapt to the situation, however.

A sliver of wood slid out of her sleeve like a switchblade popping out of its sheath, and you reacted immediately. You shot your webbing at her in order to bind her movements, but her reactions were far faster than you would’ve liked.

Your thick strand of webbing began to dissolve and unravel in mid-air, floating around the two of you like hair in a pool. The Silvertongue had an angry snarl on her face as she pointed her wand directly at you. But before she could cast another spell, a stray baton ricocheted off of a nearby light pole and impacted the side of her head. Another crack, another shattering sound, and her head whipped violently to the side, breaking her concentration.

A series of crescent-shaped, bladed projectiles flew out from behind you, slamming into her barrier and cracking it even further. But it was Louise that hammered the last nail into the coffin.

She came up beside you, wielding a wicked looking crossbow and fired a bolt at her chest. The bolt punched straight through the barrier and went straight through her chest. The woman gasped and fell to her knees, clutching at the arrow with desperate, bloody hands.

She pulled it out with a squelch, causing a torrent of blood to flow out of the gaping hole it left. You could see something wriggling and squirming inside.

“That arrowhead is coated with a paralytic toxin made from your friend’s venom.” Louise said. The implication was enough to make the other woman glare at her hatefully.

The poison should momentarily prevent her from properly casting her spells. Slurred vocabulary and shaky hands aren’t a good combination for a spellcaster.

“W-what…the f-fuck!” she spat, forcing the words out through chattering teeth. It was a good idea to strengthen the dose on that arrowhead.

You didn’t hesitate in gluing her legs to the ground, and Matt was already marching over to snatch that wand off of the ground.

“Drop the act. We know what you are.” you said in a cold, merciless tone, before webbing her mouth shut.

“And we know what you are!” said a powerful, raspy voice from behind. A large, bipedal, scaly creature with a wide snake’s head was glaring at you menacingly. And on the opposite side of the street, you saw a man wearing a familiar, goofy mask of a snake’s head and large goggles.

“Dead meat!” the snake head finished, ferociously

“Huntsman!” Matt shouted.

Your head whipped back around to see a mountain of a woman stomping towards you from where the Silvertongue was kneeling. She was all muscle, and didn’t look at all shy about using it.

You were being surrounded.

(Cont.)
>>
“Attack!” hissed the snake head, before he lunged at you, his arms stretching unnaturally to envelop your body.

Louise intercepted the attack by bringing a hand ax down on one of his arms. The gleaming, black blade bit deep into the corded muscle, but it didn’t appear to slow him down much. Moon Knight was engaged with a similar enemy—King Cobra, who had an almost identical powerset. Both monster hunters seemed to be struggling with the strange physiology of these mutant assassins.

Meanwhile, Matt was dancing around Anaconda , avoiding her strikes and returning a few of his own. It would appear that the Serpent Society was prepared for an ambush of some sort.

What will you do?

>Try to tie the two stretchy guys together with webbing.
>Fire a garlic pepper pellet at the snake head to disorient it.
>Pull out your Preprogrammed Fist and clobber these guys with it!
>Use your resonance amplifier to blast King Cobra away from Moon Knight!
>Fire your Pym Pebble at the Silvertongue and retreat back to Madame Web's mansion!
>Write-in.

Pastebins:

Character Sheet:
https://pastebin.com/1ZihFYSV

Equipment and Gear:
https://pastebin.com/WAhveFAd

Contacts:
https://pastebin.com/WdcFXD2s

10 Commandments of the Desperados:
https://pastebin.com/Qpr2jVPE

Costumes:
https://pastebin.com/5Jie54X2
>>
>>5455225
>Fire your Pym Pebble at the Silvertongue and retreat back to Madame Web's mansion!
Secure the target
>>
>>5455225
>Fire your Pym Pebble at the Silvertongue and retreat back to Madame Web's mansion!
Getting into a tussle with the Serpent Society was a risk, not the goal.
We made it clear we came here to wrangle a monster, so we're damn sure not giving it a chance to escape.
>>
>>5455225
>>Pull out your Preprogrammed Fist and clobber these guys with it!
>>
>>5455225
>Fire your Pym Pebble at the Silvertongue and retreat back to Madame Web's mansion!
>Fire the second Pym pebble at the guy who tried attacking you. Should be an easy shot with how close he is.
We have two, right? May as well burn the other so we can make an easier getaway.
If we don’t have two,
>Drop some web bombs on the guy who attacked you.
>>
>>5455225
>Fire your Pym Pebble at the Silvertongue and retreat back to Madame Web's mansion!
>>
>>5455225
>>Fire your Pym Pebble at the Silvertongue and retreat back to Madame Web's mansion!
>>
>>5455227
>>5455228
>>5455287
>>5455452
>>5455526
>Fire your Pym Pebble at the Silvertongue and retreat back to Madame Web's mansion!

Taking these. I think I'll post the update in a new thread and then link it here. Writing...
>>
New thread is up!

>>5456156
>>5456156
>>5456156

I'll be archiving this one soon. Thanks for playing, and I hope to see you all in the new thread!

https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Max%20Spider%20Quest



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