Just a Passing Assassin...

[skinstealer]

get that spider her blood! she needs to sip!

[Ignispark]

BLOOD IS VERY IMPORTANT. maybe get some extra too. party drinks are for everyone. it might taste good.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 
Spiral: Blood, as much as we’re allowed!



Fiddle: Blood?

Spiral: Cabinetta’s going to be with us and needs the power up.

Fiddle: Ah, right. That’s a fiend thing just give me a moment then..

After a long dialogue and everyone taking turns dropping their suggestions in the box, you manage to settle things out.



Steady: That everything?

Fiddle: Should be, so overall gist. We’ll be getting it ASAP, they gotta put it all together. Seems like they can send things in through a drop but can’t bring things back physically right now. Weird signal glitch.

Steady: Mm…

Fiddle: They’re also re-evaluating the job a bit. Recategorizing it so that’s good.

Spiral: What does that mean?

Steady: Basically, danger level was hella too low and placed too low priority before. Partially an error, folks putting up quest boards assumed it was a bug that kept our guy from returning.

Fiddle: Exactly.  Also considering sending in another person if the scans we’ve got make it seem worth it.

Fiddle: Our target was poisoned by something pretty high value, they think it’d be more than worth it to get good data for mod work.

Steady: Immunity in custom bodies is a big deal. We’re actually all pretty resistant to poisons and stuff.

Fiddle: I’m outright immune myself. Robot body and all.

Steady: If we get a dose of its venom, organic agents could protect themselves too.

Fiddle: Mm. Wouldn’t make you completely immune but less lethal and easier to recover from.

Steady: Did they say who they’d be sending?

Fiddle: No confirmation yet but I’m nervous myself…

Fiddle: Might send a higher up which… would look pretty bad if we don’t keep up.



Cabinetta: A higher up? How far is the scope of this group you’re working for?

Steady: Uh… big. Like international probably.

Cabinetta: Why was your friend here of all places then? It’s not exactly a well of exciting discoveries.

Fiddle: Recruitment, possibly. Doesn’t sound like they knew about your Revnaught issue. Might’ve been someone in town they wanted to scout.

Cabinetta: The old hunter perhaps.. Cannot imagine I’m of much interest, fiendish nature aside.

Fiddle: Speaking of, seems like with the signal thing, non-physical transfer is very viable once you tweak the settings. How they were able to talk and collect data.

Fiddle: Tempted to go back and talk some… maybe figure out their plans.

Steady: Any of us three could. Might be handy.

Fiddle: Mm… depends on who you wouldn’t mind being without for a bit… we’d be one person less but it’ be good for someone to go.

Steady: Spiral, your thoughts? This is your quest and all, no matter who goes it could be a good lesson for you.

Fiddle: Should we really risk it?

Steady: This is how you learn. Making use of a team's talents assigning tasks, or even going himself would help her learn more about how to talk with the operators.

Fiddle: That’s true… your choice then. Cabinetta is here so and so is Turnip. We can afford to do this as of now.

[Ignispark]

Fiddle came up with the idea, so they probably have the largest amount of a concept as of how to tackle that discussion. They're probably the best to send back for now. Also in the unlikely event of a danger I think a baseball star is good to have on hand, so Steady should probably definitely stay.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: Considering Fiddle came up with the plan, and Steady seems to have the most combat experience, think it’d be best if they went, Wouldn’t be much help myself, and Steady’s better at taking care of things here I think.

Fiddle: Mm, you’re right on all of that, good noggin on you.

Steady: Guess it was kinda obvious…



Fiddle: You wanted him to get some people skills back home I’m guessing?

Steady: Just figured she could use a break you know? Getting something this weird as your first job is a bit much..

Fiddle: Mm…

Spiral: I'm doing fine so far, not like we're currently in danger.

Steady: That's true..

Fiddle toys with the communication device some.

Fiddle: I should be able to transfer to one of my spares back home easy. I need you all to make sure my body here is safe and kept out of any potential deadzones.

Steady: Easy, peasy.

Fiddle; After I do this, you should be able to keep me on your person at any point through this tool. I can talk through it quite easy while handling tasks over there. I do think we should get some more input regarding their evaluation of the case.

Steady: Yeah… bright side is if they bump up the rank the rewards are bigger, yeah?

Fiddle: Mm… enough to pay off a few break days potentially.

Steady: Wouldn’t mind.. Though gotta say, tonight may as well be one.

Spiral: Yeah, Cab’s got us spoiled.



Cabinetta: I mean you are my guests, and you’re certainly doing quite the favor for me tonight.

Spiral: And you’re a wonderful host!

Cabinetta: I just do what I can to help…

Fiddle: You’re doing a lot. I’m going to warp off in a sec, see if I can fast track some goods over.



Turnip: It’s a drop, yes?

Fiddle: Mmhmm..

Turnip: If you can, coordinate it toward the garden. I rather not have it all land on a ceiling or outside of the fence…

Fiddle: Good point. Send me coordinates when I confirm.

Steady: You gonna be safe jumping over?

Fiddle: Mmhmm.. Probably the least at risk anyway.

Fiddle: You all stay safe okay? Especially you rookie, don’t overextend.

Spiral: I’ll be careful.

Within just a couple of moments, Fiddle shut down.

The communicator squeaked at you.

Fiddle: Alright, transfer confirmed. Going to be heckling them for a bit. Think I could at least get rations over soon…. Blood if I argue if it’s for medical purposes.

Fiddle: I’m setting your frequencies to match. If you are to die in the castle by some freak accident, you’re safe..

Steady: But..

Fiddle: But if you go out there you’re not respawning safely. So… try not to pick fights for now. Wait til morning, stay smart.

Steady: Roger.

Spiral: Gotcha.

Fiddle: I’ll pester pretty regularly, enough that you won’t miss me much.

Steady: Don’t say that… we already do…

Fiddle: … Yeah well… You know the job.

Steady: Course, you go handle things alright?

FIddle: Mm..

Turnip picks up Fiddle’s body and lies them down on a table.

Turnip: Do think it’d be best if they stay here, mention of deadzones and all…

Fiddle: That’d be best, good call.

Turnip: Mm.. Oh! I do have news, we have one additional guest right now. On his way..

Cabinetta: Oh? Is it the hunter?

Turnip: Mm, any second now and…

The door to the library opens up, an old injured man in a coat, dyed in a cocktail of stans approaches. His dragonic plated form shows years of wear and tear with chunks mismatched.



The Hunter: Sorry to break in without warning, job got screwy tonight.

The Hunter: Nobody answered at the gate so I figured I’d allow myself in. Mind if I help myself to some supplies?



Cabinetta: What happened to you..?

The Hunter: No idea, creature seems extra agitated lately. Tried breaking through the entrance. Can’t get in easy since this place is protected but… it’s getting better at bruce forcing through. Like a snail sprinting through a road of salt.

THe Hunter: Gaining a tolerance. It’s had its limits for tonight I think but, it’s really out for blood right now.

Cabinetta: We’ll get you what you need quickly..

Turnip scuttles off.

The Hunter looks over at you and Steady:

The Hunter: You two gonna introduce yourselves? Got some big cojones coming out to these parts right now of all times you know. Hope you’re showing my friends here your best behavior.

 

[Ignispark]

...would it be rude to try to sneak a scan in a handshake? really not sure, but it could be a neat thing to try

in more important business, definitely prudent to catch the hunter up to speed that you're...international...and trying, to help at the moment, the supply drop and what not. + ask the hunter more about the beast + what his skills are and what's been tried so far.

[Lilium Mortem]

It might be prudent to do a check to make sure this guy isn't the monster, you know with the whole shape shifting into people thing that it does. I'm tired and can't remember the details and also don't want to back reqs y'all know what I'm talking about. Might wanna do turnip too, since we know cabba is in the clear from our scan.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 You offer out your hand, taking initiative.

Spiral: Spiral Renegade, heard a lot about you from folks here.

The Hunter takes your hand and holds it firm.

SCAN BEGIN…...



The Hunter: Good things?

Spiral: Think so, you watch the town?

The Hunter: Have for decades, and maybe a few more down the line. Have to get over this tough period first.

Spiral: Mm…

PARTIAL SCAN. ARCHIVING….

You try tightening the shake but he pulls his hand away.

INITIAL SCAN PAUSED AT 55%....

Hopefully that’s enough to ask base for help.

The Hunter: Nice try.



Spiral: W-what?

The Hunter: Gotta be firm at the start, technique’s all over the place. Right energy but wrong delivery.

The Hunter: You will not survive the winter.

What the fuck does that even mean.

Steady dives in and tries to save face with her own handshake, giving you a wink.



Steady: Steady, bastard rabbit.

You can see a satisfied look from just the hunter’s eyes peeking through the helm.

The Hunter: Can tell you got a good swing. Athlete?

Steady: Did some pro baseball.

The Hunter: Mm.. not the biggest sports person myself but I’ll watch with friends in the pub some days. Either way, trained arm and solid posture there.

Steady: Do what I can, no big deal.

The Hunter: You’re doing good.

He looks over.

The Hunter: Intern?

Spiral: Rookie actually.

The Hunter: Training with her?

Spiral: Mmhmm!

The Hunter: You may make it after all… you’re in good hands.

Spiral: Okay…

The Hunter: So what brings you two out? Clearly from pretty far out.

Spiral: Research overseas.

Steady: Travel a lot, friend of ours came to scan the local phenomenon and got caught so we were dropped in to handle that.

The Hunter: Valuing your comrades,I respect it. Bit of a huge mistake though, can’t imagine whoever gathered info on this area is keeping their job for long. Any luck finding your ally?

Spiral: Yep, not in the best shape though. Gonna help out with getting rid of the creature and then taking her to safety.

The Hunter: Mm. Personally I could escort all of you out safely during the day but… I think we could all use the help right now. Thing’s been going off every night, wearing me down a bit at this point.



Cabinetta: I haven’t seen you like this in years…

The Hunter: No, bit of a challenge admittedly. Thing forces a chase from dusk til dawn, conventional scraping doesn’t go far.

The Hunter: Got this network of dens that only show when it’s active. Been smoking it out of hiding but the layout seems to shift through each session. There’s patterns and I’ve got a bit faster at it each time but even after I gotta find the hole it’s jumping out of.

Steady: Sounds like you need a few spotters.

The Hunter: Would you be willing? Dangerous work if you get caught alone.

Spiral: If we could get a good point to look at things, we could track it.

The Hunter: Aye… I have plenty of tools to make that work back home…

The Hunter: Admittedly though, its been tough barricading that. The thing hates light but small local houses only keep it out for so long before it decides taking a victim is worth tolerating it.

The Hunter: Not exactly a fortress admittedly…

Cabinetta: You could sleep over with us, we’ll help you move things over in the morning…

The Hunter: Mm…

Cabinetta I know you said you'd be fine before but…

The Hunter: I didn’t want you getting dragged in but… seems like it is getting closer to breaking in here now.

The Hunter: May have to scrape up things and fortify here instead.



Cabinetta: Thank you… I know you don’t want to ask for too much but-

The Hunter: Honestly,  I just want this town back. Can’t imagine they’re all too happy having to abandon their homes for over a month. Whatever it takes to save everyone, I'll do it.

Cabinetta: Mm…

Spiral: Hate too pester too much, new on the job but.. What exactly do you do?

The Hunter: Bit of everything really, needed in an occupation like mine but… mostly good at tracking anything that moves.



The Hunter: Could find the devil himself if I had to.

Steady: Have you?

The Hunter: No, because there’s more than one out there actually it turns out.



Steady: The devil’s real?!


Cabinetta: Yes.



Cabinetta: It’s me.

The spider and the dragon snicker amongst themselves.



The Hunter: Not entirely wrong. I’m really just a survivalist with an affinity for fighting but… a fancy title isn’t something to complain about having-

You see him suddenly fall, legs crumpling and only barely catching himself before completely eating shit.

Cabinetta: You really hurt yourself this time.



The Hunter: Aye… don’t think I can afford to fight anymore tonight..



The Hunter: Think it injected me with something nasty…



Cabinetta: Turnip will be back soon, just hang in there...

[skinstealer]

can we get the hunter some medicine and patch him up? he did say he was coming in for supplies so i doubt he'll refuse us suggesting it but he might get fussy about actually helping

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: Can we get some medicine?



Steady: Think he needs more than that dude.

Steady: right now we need to stabilize him til Turnip finds something. Make it easier for them to do what they gotta. I got the scan data…

Steady:  Cabinetta, look for a wound that looks especially nasty.

The Hunter: Side, just be quick about whatever you’re planning.

Cabinetta rolls him over.



Cabinetta: That’s horrid…



The Hunter: Aye..

Cabinetta: How long ago?

The Hunter: Fairly fresh but….

Steady: Spiral, bite him.

Spiral: What??

Steady: You gotta suck out the poison, your body type’s got anti-venom properties. New thing we’re testing with all the more fanged types.

Spiral: I’m a snake….

Steady: Exactly. Try not to swallow it either…



Steady: or do? Your body should be able to do something with it. Whether it’s good or bad well… you have to find out.

Steady: You’re a bit of a walking bin for processing venom into useful things. Maybe you’ll become the cure?

Spiral: Oh god uh…

How are we doing this? Time is of the essence. 

[Ignispark]

SIP THE FORBIDDEN SODA

TAKE IN THE VENOM AND STEAL ITS POWER

[Lilium Mortem]

Grab an arm and chomp down my dude.

[skinstealer]

sippy sippy

[King-Clod]

alright, lets uh. oh gosh. let's bite this dude, I guess. I really don't know about swallowing the poison though... if it's what put our ally in a coma, I don't really want to see what it could do to us.

Maybe we can just ingest a tiny bit of the venom, and spit the rest out?

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You take a bite, the hunter stirring for a moment before relaxing.

You take in a sip for good measure. It tastes… salty? In a snacky way, very much like a chip.

Steady pulls out the communicator.



Steady: You got a reading?



Fiddle: I do actually, waiting for folks to hear me out so I got the time to scan.

Fiddle: Did you miss me that quickly?

Steady: Course I missed you, I wanna hear my buddy's voice.



Fiddle: Don't say it like that... now I miss you... a-anyway.

Fiddle: It is stabilizing him.

Steady: What about Spiral?



Fiddle: Weirdly enough? Resonating with something in her body. How’s he looking?

You give a thumbs up.

Steady: Good? Readings match?

Fiddle: Mmhmm. Promising. Your body’s a new type that can apply properties in small doses without full modding so, it might be reacting.

Fiddle: You actually have some abilities stored and unequipped but this one seems intrusive.

Fiddle: But it’s not harmful as far as I can tell.

You nod, continuing further. There's a hypnotic effect.

Your vision is engulfed by a series of swirls and colors....

The Hunter:... What’s all this now?

The Hunter: Knave.

The Hunter: Are you biting me?

Cabinetta: She’s removing the poison.. Are you feeling better?

The Hunter: Surprisingly so, aye..

The Hunter:  Is um… she going to be okay?

Cabinetta: Mm?

The Hunter: Those eyes, they’re-

You black out mentally.

You have no clue what’s happening in the outside world.

You hear someone.

Possibly from a past life.

You can’t tell if the voice is hostile or friendly.

Family or friend.

Rival or your fated nemesis.

They’re reaching for you.

Who is it?

[King-Clod]

Oh, it's our ex-partner. We worked together, had a short romantic stint, and we had a falling out, it got...complicated. We didn't really talk much after everything went down.

[Ignispark]

Someone wanted by at least three different governments, inventor of a kitchen appliance, and internet game show host. [who may also be an ex-partner]

[Lilium Mortem]

they are love, a deep and true love, a person by your side in some form for most of your life. A warm smile and the soft sound of guitar. A melody about the sun, bright and beautiful.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

“You’re spending a lot of time prepping for this job, must be a big deal.”

Spiral: It is, bounty boards are turbo active right now.

Spiral: if I can’t keep momentum now, might miss out on my big break you know?

Spiral: I wanna take this seriously.

“I guess…”

“Don’t see why you want to be a *famous* bounty hunter. Only makes the job harder..”

Spiral: Most people don’t keep up enough to recognize me. Only certain types, you know?

Spiral: Gotta pay off my loans anyway…

“You should’ve never made them in the first place…”

Spiral: Too late now.

Spiral: Got the worst of them paid off at least…

“How’d you manage that?”

Spiral: Friend set me up with a deal, won’t collect anytime soon and no interest as far as I can tell.

“Sounds like a scam…”

Spiral: Maybe. Other option is I didn’t pay it off and my knees are gone so…

Spiral: Have a shot now.

“I’d say it’s your fault but… that wouldn’t be fair. Family really dumped that on you when things went down…”

Spiral: Let’s… not talk about that…

“Sorry.”

Spiral: So why are you here?

“Because I need a job for a friend. Potentially a big one. One that you have less chance of getting killed over.”

Spiral: Don’t get why you worry about me….

“Bailed you out too many times at this point, feel like if I let something happen well…”

Spiral: Sunken cost?

“Shut the fuck up.”

Spiral: “Hehe…”

“Anyway can you like…. Turn around? Haven’t looked me in the eye since I got here.”

Spiral: I guess…

You turn around…

What you see is….?

[King-Clod]

An adventurer morph comber, their fur composed of warm tones that really never seemed to match their personality. They dress like their funeral was the week prior, and given how bone-tired they look most days, well. You couldn't blame anyone who thought they were three days away from death.

It's a bit ironic, in hindsight.

[Ignispark]

Honestly the above idea is really fun 1000% seconding it. In addition I think some sort of neat hat and a very visible weapon of some kind could be a fun combination. Maybe a pistol or cutlass or something else fancy? (Or you know, a giant battleaxe or scythe something. Anything could be cool). Alternatively some sort of odd magic tool could be a fun addition.

[Guest]

A clown

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You get a good look.

"See?That's better."

Spiral: I guess...

"Anyway feel like I lead the conversation too much."

Spiral: You're the one who offered to show up in person for this.

"Here to help you out as always."

"Even if we're not as close anymore, a job's a job."

"So talk to me a bit. Business, what else's been up besides debt. Make the drive over here feel worth it, you know?"

"That a lot to ask?"

Spiral: Guess not..

[Ignispark]

Maybe talk about what sorta magic's been dabbled in recently, if there's been any recent beats of interest there?
How the local place's been, anything weird going on. Hit the highlights reel first, to really amp up the start.
Might leave with just like, weather and whatnot later on but that's the risk you gotta take to start things at mach 3.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: Witching studies been pretty good lately. Want to see something I’m working on?



“Depends what it is.”

Spiral: Check it out!

You pull a wooden box over from the side of your work desk.

They peek over your shoulder in anticipation.



You open it up to reveal a hammer.

“New one?

Spiral: Mmhmm. One that’s got a little more going on.

“Why… does it have a keychain?

“Looks like something that belongs in a game.”

Spiral: It’s a conduit charm, the hammer’s properties change based on what’s linked to it.

“And a duck.. Why?”

Spiral: A friend gave that to me in high school, feel like it’s good luck you know?

“Has it been?”

Spiral: We’ll have to find out! They say things with a lot of attachment are the best conduits though. Really stand out ones will change the form of the weapon. Gives it a bit of flexibility.

“It’s cute, I’ll give you that. You put a lot of work and detail into this…”

Spiral: I mean yeah. Witchcraft’s a bit of something I care a lot about.

“Why don’t you do that instead? Better for your health.”

Spiral: I guess…

“Practically fighting for mine these days, think we all need to be better about keeping ourselves safe.”

Spiral: I just need to get out of my debt you know? After that I’m clean, no more.

“Mm…”



“May not be together anymore but.. Don’t want to outlive you that soon. Don’t do anything stupid, please…”

“I know the jobs‘ve been getting worse with time.”

“Lord knows you’ve drunken all sorts of sludge just for a quick buck.”

Spiral: Things’ll be different…

“Different how? I want to hear something specific.”

[Ignispark]

Concept 1: You know, it's impolite to blatantly call out a lie like that. Not really like there's another way out.

Concept B: Oh you know, this next one seems like it's very formal, that should mean won't have to do anything else for a while

(I don't really have any coherent ideas for that one so something like one of the above probably could be something? If nobody else has ideas.)

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

00Spiral: Just trust me yeah? This one’s looking a lot more formal. Pull this off and I won’t have to do anything like that in a while.

Spiral: I want out of this just as much. 




“No, think I want it more.”

“Otherwise you’d be looking for something safer.

“Still, I’m rooting for you a little…”

“You make it out in one piece.”

“Brought you this.”

Spiral: Parts?

“Imported mechanism from overseas. Based on some lost tech that’s been seeing a lot of traction lately.”

Spiral: Huh…

Spiral: These could fit into the current rig pretty nicely. Firearm?

“Yep. Growing in popularity with modern modders. Was going to use it for myself but you know…”

“Not doing so hot so I’m taking a break myself.”

Spiral: Appreciate it.

“Talk to me once you’re all done. I missed this.”

“Therapist says I need to make more friends anyway. Just wanna make sure I’m not betting on anyone who’s gonna die on that quickly….”

You felt yourself returning to your senses. The hunter loomed over you, checking for vitals.. Turnip sat by with a medical kit.



The Hunter: Eyes opening, good sign. Just hang onto a thought to keep you awake.

The Hunter: Give me a word.

Spiral: A……

You’re slapped. Your eyes watered a bit.

The Hunter: Almost there, try again.



Cabinetta: Don’t be so rough…



Turnip: Really though, just had to patch up some nasty wounds..

The Hunter: If this does her in it’d be my fault. Not letting him pass out any longer.

One more smack.

Spiral: Please stop…



Steady: You’re awake! You had me worried to fuck dude…



Fiddle: His vitals were fine, just a bad reaction. I’ve returned by the way.

Fiddle: More like a nasty winter fever.

Spiral: Things go okay?

Fiddle: Surprisingly so, yes. Managed to get a good scan of the creature from its poison. Seems to have modified you in the process.

Spiral: Really? Anything look different?

Fiddle: We’ll have to find out. Admittedly I am worried what’ll happen from here.

Fiddle: Your body’s equipped with a system for this express purpose and it overloaded you.

Fiddle: Don’t think we can afford for this to happen again.

The Hunter: I’m impressed you can to begin with. Sucking out the toxin is a myth in most cases. I owe a debt.



Steady: You know that explains why Cabby here didn’t do it herself actually…

Fiddle: You… didn’t know that’s fake?

Steady: I’m not getting bit by toxic creatures like that. Though now I wonder…

Cabinetta: I can perform a touch of care with a bite, but in this case I’d only make things somewhat worse.



Steady: Yo what? Show me.


Fiddle: Steady...

Steady: I wanna know. Please.



Cabinetta: I-It’s embarrassing! I mean maybe but...

Cabinetta: We’ll see.

She turned toward you and the Hunter.

Cabinetta: You both need rest I think. Anything you’d like? Any request and I’ll do my best.

The Hunter: Some time to rest and freshen more than anything. Don’t want to agitate these injuries.

Cabinetta: I can prepare a guest room if you’d like.

The Hunter: Appreciated… Admittedly I’m worried the creature will break into my home one of these days. Keeps getting braver. I hate to bother ye but-

Cabinetta: You don’t have to apologize.

She looked directly at you.

Cabinetta: And you?

Spiral: Me? Hmm.. Well uh…

Cabinetta: I do have one request, and that’s that you pick something where one of your friends or I can monitor you. I know my old friend’s limits well enough to be more than sure he’ll be fine but…

Cabinetta: I’d like to be extra sure with those I’m less familiar with.



Cabinetta: And admittedly I don’t want anyone to be alone right now in general either. The mention that the creature is tearing at the entrance makes me a little worried..

You can tell she was genuinely more than shaken by things tonight. Her hands trembled enough that she tucked them behind her back.

[Lilium Mortem]

we could get a mattress from somewhere and I could sleep in your room, keep you company. That is, if you trust me.

[Ignispark]

It'd absolutely be a bit silly and this is half in jest, but what about getting out/moving around a litany of soft things/furniture. Pillow/blanket fort accommodates as many people nearby as possible. For more eyes. That's gotta be safest, right?

[MarxzVulpez]

Seconding setting up the cozy base of opperations

[King-Clod]

Could I stay with you and Steady tonight? I figure it'd give you peace of mind to be able to look over me yourself, and well. Steady knows our job better than either of us, so it'd probably be a good idea for her to help watch over me tonight.

I think less spread out we are the safer, especially if that creature manages to get past any more of this place's defenses.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: Honestly, moving around furniture and mattresses for a big cozy base together might be good.

Spiral: Think sticking with you and Steady might be our best bet.



Cabinetta: Sounds nice but... Any reason?

Spiral: She knows our job best, and Turnip can already watch over the Hunter, right?

Cabinetta: That’s true…

Spiral: Split into two groups in rooms next to each other? One where The Hunter can rest and Turnip can watch over? Fiddle might be able to help with that too, they’re all.. Booksmart.

Cabinetta: I do have a spot with a connecting doorway so we’re close. Split half and half… think that’d work.



The Hunter: Aye, I’d like a bit of quiet personally. Much as you’ve helped, got a headache from the poison still.

The Hunter: A connecting setup means folks can shift between areas easily. I think being split too far’s a big danger.

Spiral: There we go then.

Cabinetta: I’ll go propose such to everyone then, you two stay here while Turnip does a little check in.

The spider gets up and proceeds to talk to fill in Steady and Fiddle.

Turnip takes a quick look at you.



Turnip: Never seen the whole sucking out the poison thing actually work, you’re certainly special in that way.

Turnip: If you have anything you need though, don’t be afraid to ask.

The Hunter: Aye, he’s quite good at what he does from experience.



Turnip: I… try to be.

Spiral: So are you a doctor?

Turnip: Mm.. Medicine, potions, hexes, and otherworldly ailments. I’m Cabbinetta’s familiar from a decade ago. She summoned me to deal with a plague at the time.

Turnip: My service is done but I felt it was best to stay with her. She’s a very kind person and the castle is quite comfortable.

Turnip: Many townsfolk would take short term jobs helping maintain it for her services. It’s also where many festivals and meetings are held.

The Hunter: Mm. Don’t think he has a mean bone in her.

The Hunter: It’s refreshing that someone with this much power’s got no interest in abusing it. Guess that’s the nature of a lot of fiends. Avenging spirits so to speak.

Turnip: She’s absolutely had her darker days from what she told me, before she even had a name.

Turnip: Though you’d be best off asking her…

Cabinetta wraps up and returns.



Cabinetta: They’re filled in, we’re going to do what we can to make tonight comfortable for everyone.

Cabinetta: We’ll be splitting up work. Turnip will set up the Hunter’s resting area. Steady will set up the layout, she’s surprisingly strong it turns out.. Fiddle and I will handle refreshments and treats! Any job you’d like to assist in?

[King-Clod]

Oh making treats sounds so niiiiice... but I think my strength would probably be better used setting up the layout.

...Could you save a cupcake for me to frost though, or whatever it is you're making?

[Ignispark]

(Seconding the above)

An absolutely silly idea, but while you're making refreshments could you mix the most horrifying or experimental concoction of a beverage you can come up with on a whim and what's on hand. Kitchen sink beverage consumption is a great bonding experience. Everyone who drinks the new thing can try to come up with a name to capture whatever just got made.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: Think I’m gonna settle on helping Steady, I’m pretty good at lifting and I think you’ve got things covered.



Cabinetta: If you’re sure!

Spiral: If you make cupcakes though, save me one to frost myself?

Cabinetta: Of course!

Cabinetta: Is that all? You wouldn't like to try glazing a doughnut as well?

Spiral: Hmm.. maybe we can make drinks?

Spiral: Some out there concoctions. Something we’ll remember as a group experience, you know?

Spiral: Feel like we need to really lift the mood right now.

Cabinetta: Of course!

Cabinetta: Could be really fun honestly... In that case why don’t you go on ahead, I’ll go grab Fiddle to help me out.

Spiral: Can do, good luck!

She gives you a tiny wave before heading off.

You quickly make your way over to Steady, already lifting around mattresses.



Steady: Hey, you helping me out with stuff?

Spiral: You know it.

Steady: Knew you couldn’t resist hanging out with the rabbit. I think? I dunno I’m never sure with people.

Steady: Grab that would you?

She points to a pile of stuff to set up, you oblige..

Steady: So… Fiddle says our package landed.

Steady: Just barely within the fence.

Steady: You’ve got some sort of new abilities and I’m good at getting things done quick.

Steady: After we’re done here, you wanna sneak out and grab all that?

Steady: Cab’s gotta have her blood after all. Can’t let the cute vampire down.

Steady: Honestly might be a huge boon for us.

Steady: Though if we need to I'm willing to ... bite the bullet.

[skinstealer]

absolutely yes to sneaking out. time to get into trouble

[Ignispark]

taking immense risk at being attacked by the horrors by sneaking out? in this economy?

of course we'll do it!

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: Yeah, you’ll be keeping an eye on things and all?



Steady: I’m the master of risky jobs, figure if what Fiddle says is correct well..

Steady: Means we got a surprise element.

Steady: And I think everyone would be happy to get their stuff too.

Spiral: I’m in.

The two of you quickly manage to do your heavy lifting and set things in place. With the others off in their own rooms still, you scurry out fast enough to avoid being seen.

You need to work fast, if they notice you both gone there might be a panic.

At the entrance, Steady gives you a good look.

Steady: You’re gonna try to carry that thing, sprint over without making too much noise. I’ll keep spot and cover you if the thing tries to go at you.

She creeks open the entrance just enough to get a good look.

Steady: Jesus…

Spiral: What’s up?

Ahead of you, the gate has taken a thrashing. The Hunter’s work can be seen as broken arms and tools surround the thing.



Steady: We gotta work fast but uh… I dunno.

Spiral: You okay?



Steady: Bleh...

You've never seen her genuinely tense on this job, not until now.

Steady: Feel like we’re pretty compromised right now.

Steady: Doesn’t seem out there but like.

Steady: We might be on a timer right now, you know?

Steady: Sorry your first job is this just…

Steady: Ugh, hate how up top doesn’t seem to check for these things...

Steady: Praying hard that this thing doesn't decide to finish the job.

You have some second thoughts about this if even Steady is worried.

[skinstealer]

take a good look around and be quick but cautious, have steady keep watch and try to make this As Fast As Possible

[King-Clod]

it'lll be fiiine I'm fast

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: Hey.

 Spiral: I'm fast and I've got this.

 Steady: Are you sure dude? Like...

 Steady: I don't want to lose someone on their first job like that, you know?

 Steady: It’d be miserable.

Spiral: I got you as the best teacher I could have right?



Steady: Aww well…

Steady: When you put it that way, I can try my best right?

Spiral: I promise I can do this.

Steady hands you a dagger.

Steady: I’ll warp you back as soon as you touch it.

Steady: Just grab onto it tight so it transports with you.

Spiral: Roger.

You step outside. The cool air is really nice.

Spiral: So far so good, how’s it looking?

Steady: Good.



Two probes appear out of your bag. They hover near you.

The options you chose to take with you are now active.



Spiral: Hey uh… is that normal?

Steady: They auto trigger when the danger level goes up. They’re both under your command and can fly around, pick up things, and shoot with a stunning bolt. You’ll be fine but if you feel them vibrate hard tell me. I’ll warp you back


You take in a deep breath and start running on.

Needless to say the vibrations start kicking in as you get closer. They are currently on the lighter end.

There’s nothing within sight that seems to be a danger but you should be careful.

Pick your approach thoughtfully.

[skinstealer]

when you get close enough to your target, use the probes to pick it up! keep your distance where you can

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You send in your drones to pick up the box safely. They wobble a little,all the goods clearly pushing what they can carry.

You have no cover fire while they’re busy.

You start heading back, Steady in view. You give her a little wave.



Spiral: Got it nice and easy.



Steady: Good… take your time alright? Don’t want ya falling…

Spiral: Doing my best!

You cautiously walk the rest of the way with no interference, whatever magic those gates have must really work… at least for now.

The drones hover with the massive crate slowly into the room before dropping with a thud.

Your drones need to recharge before next use.

Steady: Was expecting more of a struggle there..

Spiral: Maybe the creature can’t detect machines?

Steady: Could be. We can ask fiddle when we drag this back..

She starts grabbing the crate. You help her out with lifting it.

Steady: Don’t push yourself too hard, just a bit of a walk back to the room.

Spiral: Doing my best.

Spiral: Think folks would appreciate a little bit of a break before we go and have to fight the thing tomorrow…

Steady: Yeah.

Steady: If we do well we could set up a hub nearby. Sure the townsfolks wouldn’t mind if we saved them.


Steady: Also means we could visit folks here when we;re on break.

Spiral: That’d be nice, Cabinetta seems like she’d like that too.

Steady: Think so? I mean she’s pretty friendly, maybe.

Spiral: What do you think of her?

Steady:  Me? I mean she’s adorable, she’s got a good sense of style and taste in games..

Steady: Pretty good vampire, would let her bite.

Steady: Unless you want dibs, I dunno. Maybe you’ll become a vampire too.

Spiral: That’d be cool.

Steady: Did manage those scans, right? Fiend abilities are pretty popular with some of the vets back at the base.

Steady: Shared some of mine but shhh, lab staff get heated about people trading them around like that. Say it makes the ability pool less diverse by making folks just jump straight to the good powers early on. I say eff it.

Steady: Don’t tell people though. Shhhh.



Steady: Least I can do anyway. Haven’t been a good teacher so far I don’t think…

[skinstealer]

you're helping me out a lot, and going out of your way to be my friend even though it's my first day!

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: You’re helping me out a lot and offering to be my friend, even though it’s my first day.

Spiral: I think you're doing a great job.



Steady: You deserve the best start you can get!

Steady: Besides, get the vibe you want the easiest route out of your debt right?

Steady: So at the very least I can make sure you’re given every chance possible.

Steady: You know.. I don’t know that much about you though. It’s your first day and all but I wanna get to know you a bit more.

Steady: Whatcha make of this whole job? Your new body, the crew, Cabinetta and her people, this whole job.

Steady lay it on me.

[skinstealer]

the body's nice, suits me well enough...the company's good too.

and i think cabinetta's really cute

not sure what to make of the whole job though...hanging out with vampires wasn't what i expected

[Ignispark]

cool guns??? for 'free'?????? cool magic for 'free'...

this is basically like a cool job that finds you-

if you ignore any of the implications, which

i mean

sure!

company is definitely good

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 Spiral: Body’s been fine, suits me well enough I think?

Spiral: And the company’s been really good so I don’t mind. You Fiddle.

Spiral: Can’t say I was expecting to hang out with vampires though. Not sure what to make of the whole job itself really…



Spiral: Cabinetta’s pretty cute..



Steady: Yeeeah. She is.

Spiral: Have to say though, free guns and magic? Not too bad there.

Steady: Nothing’s free like that, you’re working it off right now.

Steady: Hopefully there’s a bonus for all our trouble. A Re-evaluation does that.

Steady: We’re almost there, just…..



Cabinetta: Just what?

Cabinetta: Did you actually go out there?

Cabinetta: It's a big risk even with the fence....

Steady gives you a wink, she's giving you the chance to weave the narrative in your favor here.

[Ignispark]

Well, you see,

Ah um, it was right out there, so- You know,,,,

anyhow this box sure is important

[skinstealer]

This is an important job and time is of the essence- and I made it back okay in the end. If trouble came up, Steady would have helped bail me out, we had a plan