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File 146898276451.png - (16.55KB , 500x500 , 1.png )
737105 No. 737105 ID: 32d627

Your name is SUPLEX, and you aren't really sure what you are.
Expand all images
>>
No. 737106 ID: 32d627
File 146898278076.png - (20.86KB , 500x500 , 2.png )
737106

But today, you would really like to try escaping your cell.
>>
No. 737107 ID: 15a025

Check inventory.
>>
No. 737109 ID: f15c78

So, first things first. Is this your blood or somebody else's blood.
>>
No. 737111 ID: d530a4

Consider your situation and/or the meaning of your name.
>>
No. 737112 ID: 3663d3

clearly, follow your name and suplex the door open
>>
No. 737116 ID: 32d627
File 146898376063.png - (14.24KB , 500x500 , 3.png )
737116

>Check Inventory
You don't have anything except your collar and your underwear. THE INTERNS took away everything else.

>Why are you named Suplex?
>Whose blood is that?
THE INTERNS named you SUPLEX because that's what you did to the last two cellmates they gave you, as well as any intern that came too close. The blood is from you doing just that (and then some) earlier today, and you're getting bored of it.

>What's the situation?
You were born here, and you've seen your siblings die here. Quite a few of those deaths were your fault, and only a handful of your own free will. You don't want to go like they did. It's time to get out of here.
>>
No. 737117 ID: 15a025

check surroundings.
>>
No. 737118 ID: c441c1

well then suplex the door out of the way.
>>
No. 737126 ID: 32d627
File 146898470175.png - (9.79KB , 500x500 , 4.png )
737126

You live in a CELL, and not a very big one either. It sure felt a lot smaller back when you had cellmates, though.

There isn't anything in the cell aside from YOURSELF and a DOOR. You have a COLLAR and UNDERWEAR, as well as TEETH and your ABNORMAL STRENGTH. The door is HARD TO BREAK, but not impossible. You've seen people do it before. It also has a TINY SLOT up top where THEY peek in on you periodically.
>>
No. 737127 ID: 15a025

Doors are bad. They prevent our escape and keep us in here. Therefore, the door must go down and be suplexed to rubble.
>>
No. 737129 ID: 4e9864

Is there anything special about the collar? Does it do anything? Does it appear to have anything electronic in it?
>>
No. 737133 ID: d035ee

Firstly, peek through the TINY SLOT to make sure no one is watching.

Then, if the cell is small enough, brace yourself against the opposite wall and force the door down. If not, just drop-kick it or something.

Also, does your collar do anything? Any kind of safety features we might need to know about, like zapping you or something?
>>
No. 737137 ID: 398fe1

>>737126
Is the wall next to the door as hard to break as the door itself?
>>
No. 737138 ID: c76196

Such a teeny tiny mouth, that could possibly be the equivalent of a scaled up snake jaw.
>>
No. 737147 ID: f65280

Remove collar, throw it at the door
>>
No. 737150 ID: 3e182c

I feel like THE FLOOR MUST DIE for you to escape.
MAKE THE FLOOR DIE.
>>
No. 737170 ID: af6e04

I assume you've already tried suplexing the door. We'll have to be a bit more creative.

Maybe if you don't immediately attack the next intern that comes in, they'll be lured into a false sense of security and you can SUPLEX them before they get the chance to lock it.
>>
No. 737181 ID: 9f3729

>>737126
consider embracing pacifism since clearly violence isn't working to your favor
>>
No. 737189 ID: db0da2

Ah yes, the incompetently run illegal biological experimentation facility. We know all about these. Don't you worry son, we'll get you out in a jiffy.

Check every floor tile for removability, there may be SECRETS. See which of; the floor, the walls, the ceiling, or the door, is most fragile, then start breaking it.
>>
No. 737237 ID: 9266ce

Suplex the floor to get out
>>
No. 737245 ID: 6e773d

Suplex yourself then play dead, and then when whatever retrieves the corpses arrives, suplex it and use its entrance as your exit.
>>
No. 737268 ID: ca0e9e

How durable are you? What kind of weapons do the guards have here? Do you think they would rather try to capture you alive if you escape or kill you?
>>
No. 737288 ID: 068d17

try to look through the TINY SLOT, If you can't see anything, you could stare at it until someone tries to take a peek, and scare them.
>>
No. 737289 ID: ad6ef3

hmm, not much to work with.
are you resilient enough to use that abnormal strength on stone or metal without needing tools?
also aside from the cell itself what are you up against?
>>
No. 737300 ID: 32d627
File 146905023836.png - (21.04KB , 500x500 , 5.png )
737300

>how durable are you
You are decently durable, moreso than some of your siblings. Your bones don't break at the touch- and having bones already puts you ahead of the pack.

>what kind of weapons do they have
Guns, knives, themselves- it varies. The interns are pretty harmless. That said, they'd be more likely to kill you if you give them enough trouble. You kind of have a lot of strikes against you.

>what are you up against
You're going up against the bitch that made you, that's for sure- and everybody who works for her. The only ones you don't want to hurt are THE KIDS.
They didn't do anything to you, not like everybody else.

>embrace pacifism
Nope.
>>
No. 737302 ID: 32d627
File 146905025868.png - (4.97KB , 500x500 , 6.png )
737302

>check slot
Nobody out there right now.
>>
No. 737303 ID: 32d627
File 146905027581.png - (17.22KB , 500x500 , 7.png )
737303

>examine collar
It's just a hunk of metal around your neck with identification info. No electronics as far as you know, and no way to take it off without heavy tools.
>>
No. 737304 ID: 32d627
File 146905029773.png - (15.15KB , 500x500 , 8.png )
737304

>check wall
Pretty strong.
>>
No. 737306 ID: 32d627
File 146905032697.png - (9.19KB , 500x500 , 9.png )
737306

>check floor
Gross tile. Nothing to see here.
>>
No. 737307 ID: 32d627
File 146905036327.png - (8.24KB , 500x500 , 10.png )
737307

>check ceiling
Too high to reach.
>>
No. 737308 ID: 32d627
File 146905038311.png - (15.00KB , 500x500 , 11.png )
737308

>break door
You're able to put a dent in it, but not much else. Another kick might do it, but you're definitely going to attract someone to your position. Shit isn't quiet.
>>
No. 737309 ID: 3e182c

What is under the tile?
>>
No. 737310 ID: 3f8abc

Kick through ceiling?
>>
No. 737312 ID: ad6ef3

>>737308
that door doesn't seem to have hinges, does it slide into the wall/roof/floor or is everything just on the other side so you can't tamper with it?
cause if it slides into the wall maybe you could use the slot as a handhold to shove it wherever it goes.
Failing that, smash that shit and see if there's any useful implements around.
>>
No. 737313 ID: db0da2

You could reach the ceiling by using the door slot as a foothold.
>>
No. 737314 ID: 0fe0c8

>Kicking the door.
>Your name is SUPLEX

Found the problem.
>>
No. 737317 ID: 90f3c0

Kick down the door, suplex any guards that respond.
>>
No. 737319 ID: d035ee

Do you know which way the door opens? You could try to break the lock by shoving it in that direction, using the slot as a handle if you need to. The door was designed to move in some direction, locked or not, it'd be easier and hopefully quieter to follow the path of the door.
>>
No. 737327 ID: e4f856

:o >>737313
>>
No. 737328 ID: 3e182c

>>737313
BRILLIANT
>>
No. 737329 ID: 4b991a

Put hand through slot, grab onto door, and begin pulling the door inwards. That way the door will make less noise by being forced into your cell, and be less obvious to staff
>>
No. 737333 ID: 068d17

Looks like there is another Cell in front of yours. Do you know if there is another one like you in there? Maybe it could help you.
>>
No. 737434 ID: 4e9864

>>737313
Go with this; figure out what the ceiling is made of. If it's just like the walls, you're no worse off than you were before. But if it's not, you might have a way to escape that's less noisy than the door.

If that doesn't work, the slot in the door looks smaller than your arm; can you reach anything interesting through the slot? You've seen the door open; does it open inward or outward? (Probably outward, so that the hinges can be on the outside.) Can you reach the handle from the slot? (It probably needs a key, but you might be able to break the lock with leverage.)
>>
No. 737796 ID: a107fd

Grab the slot and see if you can take advantage of the dent to bend it with sustained rather than sudden force. Particularly try to bend the lower edge of the slot inward. Then, reach through it and down to the locking mechanism.
>>
No. 737825 ID: c5207e

Stand beside the door with your back against the wall, wait for the next person to try checking you, and pull them forcefully by the collar into the door. Then force your newly acquired hostage to open the door all proper and quiet like.
>>
No. 737858 ID: d2398d

>>737825
I second this
>>
No. 738035 ID: 3e182c

>>737825
technically Doable but it's much easier to speak than it is to breath. They could call out for help unless you both have the perfect angle and are damn near breaking their neck, in which case you could either succeed(oops) or make thm pass out by cutting blood flow to the brain. (also oops)
Also why would Guards have collars? If your talking about normal clothes... Those are typically easy to rip through.
>>
No. 738039 ID: 8bc9e4

Who are THE KIDS and what are they doing here?
>>
No. 738052 ID: a8d153

>>738035
Yes, I meant the collar of the shirt and how strong do you think the staff or flimsy their clothing is to have to pull hard enough to slam them hard enough to daze them without ripping the shirt completely we only need the shirt really to last long enough to slam them into the door. As for screaming a hand over the mouth along with some light, for us, squeezing of the jaw if they try biting can go a long way to keeping them from calling out for help. We've tried killing people and roughing up the door it's time we tried something a little different, especially if we want to be stealthy about it.
>>
No. 738134 ID: 4e9864

>>737825
We've tried violence before, and the guards would have to be quite stupid to not work in pairs with us.
>>
No. 738221 ID: 91ee5f

>>738134
From what we've heard, they'd be stupid to not work in more than just pairs.
>>
No. 738273 ID: 3e182c

>>738052
I still think you're seriously overestimating the strength of typical clothing.
And good luck being able to cover their mouth in time from this side too.
Not to mention that if they are the least bit competent at their job, they'll know that even in our grasp they are still safer if we remain on the opposite side of the door.
>>
No. 738409 ID: ccbcd2

Fuck stealth. it's clearly not an option. Kick down the door and suplex anyone who gets between you and the exit!
>>
No. 757339 ID: dd7b30
File 147857432257.png - (21.86KB , 500x500 , 12.png )
757339

>who are the kids?
They're your siblings too, but they don't have to live in cells. THE KIDS are apparantly what you should have ended up as- they're the successes, and you and every other prisoner down here are the failures.

You can't hold it against them too much, though. They didn't choose to be brought into this world, and considering they have to deal with HER on a daily basis, you can only imagine the hells they must go through on their own.

>what are they doing here?
THE DIRECTOR of this facility created them all. She has many names, often referred to simply as SHE, or HER- though you've heard her referred to as DR. ANYA, or even MOTHER. You refuse to address her as such. To you, she's just the bitch that keeps you alive to poke at your guts for fun.
>>
No. 757340 ID: dd7b30
File 147857433741.png - (7.25KB , 500x500 , 13.png )
757340

>who's in the other cell?
Somebody you don't know and probably don't care to. The whole hallway, and probably a couple more parallel to it, are all full of prisoners like yourself- your siblings. You were all born here, and you will most likely die here if you don't escape. No one's ever made it out of this hellhole before.
>>
No. 757341 ID: dd7b30
File 147857435612.png - (12.03KB , 500x500 , 14.png )
757341

>what's the ceiling made of?
Same as the floor. Shitty-looking tile that's more durable than it should be.

>kick through ceiling
>try reaching the ceiling using the door slot
You're pretty sure both of those options will leave you falling on your ass and breaking something.

>how does the doorhinge work?
Opens outward- there's always a dude holding it when they come to check on you, just to make sure you don't start using it as a weapon. Again.

>put your hand in the slot
The last time you did that, your hand almost got eaten by a passing prisoner. No thank you.

>kick down the door
>smash open the door
>bend the door
Are you sure you want to break open the door? It's doable, but it won't be quiet. You're growing tired of your own imprisonment, but taking a risky move so early could jeopardize the whole thing. Even if you do it so gently as to bend it, the sirens will most definitely go off, and you'd be very likely to get caught...unless you keep on your toes and don't stop moving.

>wait for someone to come to the door
Your other option is to wait for someone to come to the door, and in some ways that's both easier and harder. On the one hand, you'd have an open door and a potential hostage...on the other, the staff here tends to be a bit...expendable. The life of one intern isn't going to matter much to HER. That said, having the door unlocked would be a pretty good start...

How do you want to proceed?
>>
No. 757346 ID: 339cf2

Kick down the door and make a break for it.
>>
No. 757347 ID: af6e04

Wait for somebody to come unlock the door. Not so much a hostage as somebody you can threaten into unlocking doors/helping you find your way out. Kill them if they seem unwilling to cooperate.
>>
No. 757351 ID: 398fe1

>>757347
Yeah, this is how we should approach things. Can't use them as a hostage, but we can still bully them into doing things.
>>
No. 757386 ID: 0543a8

kick down the door yolo
>>
No. 757423 ID: ccbcd2

Well we dont really have a whole lot of other options at the moment. We can make a break for it now or just wait around for someone to pass by or open the door.
We have little evidence that the door to your cell is opened by any one person at a time.
>>
No. 757464 ID: 079f3a

>>757341
wait for unlocked door and hostage/meatshield, use time to think over obstacles you know about beyond this room
>>
No. 757465 ID: a107fd

If the alarm doesn't go off when the door is unlocked properly, the door opens outward, and your true captor has little regard for the lives of those sent in to check on you, seems like the efficient solution is to lay down and pretend to be asleep. When you hear the door unlock, kick it, so it slams open and hits a guard. That'll create a tactical opportunity without immediately setting off the alarm.
>>
No. 757469 ID: ba506f

I say just force your way out. I mean without more information on this building's layout and no tools or friends on the outside we really don't have any real options other then for someone to hold the door open for us or just to say fuck it and knock the door down.
>>
No. 757740 ID: 3abd97

>>757341
What if you waited for someone to come by, and then stole the key off of them.

If you can reach the lock from the door-slit, then you could make a break for it later, when no one was around.
>>
No. 757768 ID: db0da2

How high tech is this facility? If they have electronic locks on everything then there isn't much point in kidnapping an intern, because they can just change all the codes. An intern might still be useful for directions though. How well do you know the facility's layout? Are you literate? How much signage is there in this facility, and how much of it is pictographic vs written?

If not having an intern would significantly hinder your ability to find your way around, then kidnap one, otherwise don't.


Is your goal to kill HER or just to escape? Would you be satisfied with indirectly causing HER death, rather than doing it with your own hands? It might make sense to escape and then alert the government to this facility's existence, or to alert this government's enemies to its existence if it's a government funded project.
>>
No. 757782 ID: 67d5dc

You could just damage the door. They'd have to move you when they replace it.
>>
No. 757950 ID: dd7b30
File 147892653099.png - (13.58KB , 500x500 , 15.png )
757950

You decide to wait for some interns to bring your food. It shouldn't be too long now, and knocking one out would be easy if you used the unlocked door as a weapon. The other one could help you get around, just so long as you intimidate the shit out of him and take his weapon. Most of them scare real easy.

>how high tech is the facility?
You don't really "get" technology. You know what electronics look like, and you know the interns work with things called computers, and walkie talkies.

>how well do you know the facility's layout
You've only seen this part of the facility, but you're pretty sure it's bigger than the few hallways and exam rooms you've been in.

>are you literate
Nope. They don't teach failures like you shit like that.

>how much signage can you understand
There's some images you know the meaning of, such as those for exits and the surgical wards and testing rooms.

>is your goal to kill HER or just to escape?
You aren't gonna make it a priority, but you sure wouldn't mind kicking HER around a bit, given the chance.

>can you alert the government?
You don't know what a government is, exactly. You hear people talk about it sometimes but it always goes right over your head, kinda like technology. Deities this, hoax that. Something something sacrifices. It doesn't involve you.
>>
No. 757952 ID: 15a025

Have you been in the testing room before? What goes on in there?
>>
No. 757995 ID: 8cc446

try to seduce the next guard that comes through?
>>
No. 758013 ID: 18de5c

>>757950
is there anyone you've encountered that would be able/willing to help? fellow prisoner, sympathetic intern ect.
just in the offchance you run into them on your way out.
>>
No. 758016 ID: db0da2

>Deities this, hoax that. Something something sacrifices.
You should try to pay attention this sort of stuff from now on. Understanding the actual purpose of this facility will likely be helpful for your escape, and having at least a basic understanding of what the outside world will be extremely important once you have to try to survive out there. By the way, what do you eat?

Well, time to play the waiting game.
>>
No. 758075 ID: 85cc2c
File 147900017023.png - (11.37KB , 500x500 , 16.png )
758075

>what happens in the testing rooms?
You don't want to think about that right now, or ideally ever again.

>is there anyone willing to help you?
THE KIDS seem to like you and your siblings just fine, until SHE orders them to kill one of you. SHE likes to test them like that. That said, you doubt they'll be much help, being as small as they are.
THE INTERNS are terrified of HER, but your hostage may be willing to help if you offer him a way out as well. Cowardly little things.

>pay more attention to things
Yeah, not a bad idea. You make a note to watch out for passing conversations- you might be able to ask an intern something as well.

>what do you eat?
Your siblings. You stopped feeling any remorse about it a long time ago.

>wait
You're pretty good at waiting, considering there's nothing else to do here.

>seduce intern
Eh, why not. If it helps, you can do your best to make it worth their while. It wouldn't be the first time you got an intern to do what you want.
>>
No. 758079 ID: db0da2

>It wouldn't be the first time you got an intern to do what you want.
Do tell.
>>
No. 758193 ID: 3abd97

>Your siblings. You stopped feeling any remorse about it a long time ago.
That doesn't sound sustainable. It costs food to make you guys- there's no way a population can be self sustaining on cannibalism alone.
>>
No. 758196 ID: 34c437

>>758193
Maybe they are made in large scale and at some point are subject to a process with high enough mortality to sustain the failures. Presumable the successful and the unevaluated receive a more appropriate food.
>>
No. 758282 ID: 85cc2c
File 147908234733.png - (15.40KB , 500x500 , 17.png )
758282

>do tell
Most of the interns are dudes raised up from kids- they only let the grown up ones handle your cell block, the young ones handle the kittens. You've seen a handful of girls in your lifetime, but not that many. You can't tell if that's just HER preference, or random chance- that said, the majority of you and your siblings are labelled as female.

Point is, they don't exactly get out much and if there's anything you know now, it's that the intern dudes aren't picky. Combine the fact that lots of your siblings got all fucked up in the business areas, lots of interns go looking for thrills with whatever siblings of yours are willing. You don't mind helpin' em out a bit. Fuckers must get pretty lonely, being raised in a place like this.
>>
No. 758283 ID: 85cc2c
File 147908236798.png - (13.35KB , 500x500 , 18.png )
758283

Not that you don't get lonely, yourself. It's a mutual deal.

>unsustainable food source
You would think the same, but you've seen how many siblings you have. There's plenty, and you're pretty sure SHE wants to mow down your numbers, now that she has her successes.
>>
No. 758285 ID: 85cc2c
File 147908244712.png - (11.05KB , 500x500 , 19.png )
758285

"Bringing in your food now, Suplex. Get in the corner."
A familiar voice echoes outside the door, and you can't help but feel hopeful. You know this one.
>>
No. 758292 ID: 398fe1

Maybe you can seduce him and then catch him with his pants down. Literally.
>>
No. 758300 ID: 3abd97

>You know this one.
Is he one of the good ones?

>Get in the corner
He's not gonna open the door until he seems you where you're supposed to be, unless he's completely careless.
>>
No. 758333 ID: 91ee5f

Well, since there's plenty of food, you might want to consider cutting back on how much you eat. Cause you're looking pretty chunky.
>>
No. 758341 ID: db0da2

Good as in seduceable? In that case, roll to seduce then kidnap him. Otherwise, jump him at the door.
>>
No. 758492 ID: a107fd

Say "I'll let you in if you promise to be gentle." Once he's figured out what you mean, ask him to have any guards look the other way, for privacy.

Then pull his shirt up over his head as a blindfold, pants down around his ankles, and use the belt to tie his elbows together behind his back. With enough finesse, intern might not even realize he's not actually going to get any sex until you've been gone for several minutes.
>>
No. 759069 ID: 28d689

>>758285
Take him with you, hes gotta be useful to some degree
>>
No. 760671 ID: 85cc2c
File 147980362890.png - (13.92KB , 500x500 , 20.png )
760671

>chunky
Hey, you look great. The extra weight helps a ton when they decide to starve you as punishment, too. It's practical and lots of interns find it pretty damn hot.

>is he good?
Oh yeah. He's your favorite. You scoot into the corner and pose.

"Come on in." You do your best to make your voice sound inviting, but it's kind of hard to do when you have a permanent snarl.
>>
No. 760672 ID: 85cc2c
File 147980365505.png - (16.62KB , 500x500 , 21.png )
760672

He's here with another intern, stationed at the door. Your favorite guy may look pretty harmless, being one of those softbodies and all, but you've seen the guy move. He's got plenty of strength hidden behind a soft exterior, and unlike most of the other softbodies in this hellhole, he's well equipped. Your dinner lays lifeless in the crook of his arm, still fresh by the look of it.

"I heard you gave the last bunch a hell of a time, Suplex. You gonna be gentle with me?"
"Only if you return the favor. Can we score a bit of time today, or is he-" You gesture to the intern at the door, who looks away immediately. Dude must be new here. "-gonna be a pain?"

"I'm already running late, Sup, they got me booked for the whole week..."

You slide your underwear down real slow, and he gives in.
>>
No. 760674 ID: 85cc2c
File 147980373943.png - (14.36KB , 500x500 , 22.png )
760674


His buddy closes the door and waits outside, and it doesn't take long before he drops your dinner and gets his hands all over you. You love this guy, you really do.

Softbodies don't usually have shit down there, but this guy got some deal with somebody in high places and got a proper cock slapped on. And fuck, he is pent up today. He grinds his hips on yours and you almost forget the whole purpose of this, thinking about how good it'd feel for him to strip and take you right then and there.

"H-hey...you know what I really, really want?"
"All yours, Sup...just say the word."

>>
No. 760675 ID: 85cc2c
File 147980375948.png - (12.26KB , 500x500 , 23.png )
760675

"Let's get out of here. You and me. Together."

"What?"
>>
No. 760688 ID: ba506f

"Oh come on, you can't honestly look me in the eyes and tell me that you want to stay here in this place for the rest of your life? Their has to be more to life then this room, then this facility. Is it so wrong to actually want to go out their and see it for myself? Or better yet go out and see it with someone by my side? Surely you've had a similar thought once or twice before?"
>>
No. 760763 ID: 398fe1

Tempt him. Tell him he'll get to have sex with you every single day.

Also make sure he can't run off. Though it looks like you're already pinning him with your legs. If he outright refuses and tries to get away, tell him it's an offer he can't refuse. Then I guess you get to beat him into submission and bust open the door.
>>
No. 760820 ID: 85cc2c
File 147987225106.png - (14.26KB , 500x500 , 24.png )
760820

"Let's get out of here. You and me. Together."

"What?"

"Sex every day. Fresh air, no more hallways. No more death."

"I don't need to screw around that much, Suplex. Plus, they told me it's just more death outside-"

"Bullshit. You know we're disposable, you've had to have thought about this before."

"I mean, everyone has, but we just can't..."

"Says who?"
>>
No. 760821 ID: 85cc2c
File 147987227323.png - (14.46KB , 500x500 , 25.png )
760821

"The director, Dr. Anya. I've seen what she does to people who try."
>>
No. 760822 ID: c57f6b

"If it's so dangerous outside, why do they use force to keep us inside?"
>>
No. 760823 ID: 398fe1

>>760821
Then let's kill her. Heck, if everyone wants out why don't we start a riot?
>>
No. 760827 ID: 3e182c

There are only two options. You can spend every day waiting to die, or you can risk meeting death early for your one shot at true happiness.
I've already made my choice. I'm going with or without you. Please don't make me do this alone.
>>
No. 760834 ID: 85cc2c
File 147987726807.png - (11.95KB , 500x500 , 26.png )
760834

"Okay, so why do they use force to keep us in? If it's really hellish outside like people say, what's the deal?"

"I don't know. I just know it's bad out there, and at least we get fed in here. We have a roof over our heads."

"Let's just kill her, shit, you know we have numbers."

"We may have people, but she's got divine wrath on her side. Suplex, I want out as much as you do...but that's not something I want to tempt."
>>
No. 760835 ID: 398fe1

>>760834
Uh, divine wrath? What's that?
>>
No. 760836 ID: 13d7b7

We are beyond fear. What can she possibly do to us that's worse than our current fate? Life in a sealed box is not a life worth living.
>>
No. 760864 ID: 85cc2c
File 147988333143.png - (12.83KB , 500x500 , 27.png )
760864

"The hell are you on about? Don't tell me you believe that shit-"

"Sup, I've seen it." He starts to shake a little, and if he wasn't a softbody, he'd be sweating. "I saw whatever it is, whatever she's got on her side, and it's not right. I don't know if it's a god like everybody says, but it's stronger than all of us, even if we worked together."

"I don't care if it is a god. I don't believe in that shit and I'm tired of living in a stupid fucking box."

He presses his paws to his forehead and takes a deep breath. "Alright. If I don't come with you, you're bound to get yourself killed. You'll need a guide."
>>
No. 760872 ID: 13d7b7

Guide recruited! Let's roll.

Keep an eye on him though. He might just be planning on turning you in.
>>
No. 760873 ID: 398fe1

Aww, he's sweet. Helping you without even hoping to escape himself. Give him a kiss.
>>
No. 760881 ID: 91ee5f

>>760864
Wait. First, finish getting each other off. Second, eat the meal he brought for you. Finally, exit your cell.
>>
No. 760898 ID: 17e567

>Wrath of God
Bullshit this is a place of science not magic and religion. Any superpowers she has are from a device or weapon, we just need to figure out what it is and take control of it.

Anyway now that recruitment's settled, SEX, see if the other guy wants to come in and make it a threesome.
>>
No. 760900 ID: c90231

Also, check to make sure that the assistant isnt eavesdropping
>>
No. 760903 ID: 13d7b7

Also it might be useful to know the guide's name.
>>
No. 761036 ID: 85cc2c
File 147996261101.png - (17.17KB , 500x500 , 28.png )
761036

Sex seems like a good idea as any, considering that you might not get a chance to later- especially if one of you ends up dying.

For someone so soft on the outside, the guy is packing some serious heat- at least, compared to most of the other interns. He gets right to work as soon as he can get his jumpsuit off, peeling it away from his plush skin in a way that gets your heart racing. You can't deny that there's a bit of a thrill doing it with someone so...artificial. You know softbodies don't usually bother with this thing, either. He's an outlier, and you wouldn't have it any other way as he starts going at it.

Maybe it's the excitement over finally getting out of here, but today is good, really good. You can tell it's different for him too, the intern finally letting some of his controlled exterior go and start moaning, burying his head in your neck. It may be a quickie, but it's the best quickie you've ever had in a long time. You stop keeping track of how many times he gets you off, begging him to keep going harder with every time.

By the time he pulls out, exhausted, you're dripping with his cum and feeling a distinct warm, full sensation. He licks you clean, and you do the same- it was a tradition of yours.

>>
No. 761037 ID: 85cc2c
File 147996266853.png - (19.80KB , 500x500 , 29.png )
761037

You both lay there on the tile for a while, caught in the afterglow. It's a good few minutes of nobody talking, made bearable by the sound of eachother catching your breaths.

"Hey...you got a name?"

"None of us do, Suplex. Just numbers." He closed his eyes, having accepted this fact long ago. "You're MC-122, and I'm IT-573. You got named because you actually...I don't know, people give a shit about you. People just see me as another construct doing its duty."

"Well, shit. If we're gonna be doing this together, you need a name. I'm not calling out numbers if I need your help."
>>
No. 761038 ID: b01ef8

If she's Suplex, then how about something like Nelson or the like? Get a theme going.
>>
No. 761040 ID: 44359f

Well, let's see, what's his most distinctive characteristic?

...

We could call him Richard. Or William.
>>
No. 761042 ID: 13d7b7

>>761040
+1 for Dick
>>
No. 761045 ID: 750f88

>>761040
Richard please
>>
No. 761047 ID: 9876c4

>>761038
He looks like a Nelson.
>>
No. 761053 ID: 7d8168

>>761038
I also approve of Nelson.

Peterson, Granby, Lincoln and Sullivan are available options down the line if we acquire more unnamed friends and associates.
>>
No. 761080 ID: a4fa70

Sharpshooter.

Sharp/Sharpie for short.
>>
No. 761082 ID: 9f3729

>>761037
Dicksnatch rumbletrousers

Dick rum for short
>>
No. 761091 ID: 17e567

Richard Nixon please
>>
No. 761095 ID: 6612fa

>>761037
Benedict Cumbersnatch
>>
No. 761099 ID: 7585fc

>>761038
It's a neat idea, Nelson has my vote
>>
No. 761111 ID: db0da2

Richard is alright. I don't like Nelson. We earned the name Suplex, I doubt he's ever wrestled anyone seriously in his life.
>>
No. 761185 ID: 15a025

My votes for Nelson
>>
No. 761186 ID: 73551b

NEL
SON
>>
No. 761187 ID: 71d443

Monty. The full Monty.
>>
No. 761402 ID: 3e182c

Full Nelson gets my vote.
>>
No. 761552 ID: 0198a0

>>761038
>>761047
>>761053
>>761099
>>761185
>>761186
>>761402
Fine but only if it's deadly.
>>
No. 761797 ID: 85cc2c
File 148023611734.png - (13.11KB , 500x500 , 30.png )
761797

"You're Nelson now."

"Nelson...okay. I can try to get used to that. Nelson." He sits up, trying the name out under his breath, testing it. You watch him before crawling over to his side.
>>
No. 761798 ID: 85cc2c
File 148023613944.png - (15.74KB , 500x500 , 31.png )
761798

"We need to handle your friend out there."

"We should kill him, honestly. I hate to do it to one of my own, but...I can't see it going well otherwise."

"I'll handle it, Nelson. Don't get your soft little paws dirty unless I say so."
>>
No. 761799 ID: 85cc2c
File 148023617434.png - (17.61KB , 500x500 , 32.png )
761799

You wolf down your dinner as he gets dressed, crunching everything down with your teeth, bones and all. You kind of hate it when they give you the little ones. There's something innately fucked up about eating the other failures, but these ones especially so. They never even had a chance.

You guess you never had much of a chance either, thinking about it. No thumbs, an intern told you when you asked. No thumbs, nose, excess breasts. Eyes were way too big, the whole face was all wrong.

You shake the thoughts of imperfection off. It didn't matter now, anyway. You were done being their little toy, and you had work to do.
>>
No. 761800 ID: 85cc2c
File 148023620308.png - (17.25KB , 500x500 , 33.png )
761800

>>
No. 761801 ID: 85cc2c
File 148023622684.png - (17.42KB , 500x500 , 34.png )
761801

It doesn't take long. Skulls aren't meant to hold up to your teeth.
>>
No. 761802 ID: 85cc2c
File 148023625722.png - (11.27KB , 500x500 , 35.png )
761802

Nelson tries not to vomit, swallowing it down and getting back to business. You consider taking the intern's bloodstained jumpsuit- it'd smell and be too tight on you, but it'd be clothing.

"Down that way is cells up until you hit residential corridors." Nelson points to your left. "The other way leads to the surgical wards. The whole complex loops around, so we can go either way and find elevators."
>>
No. 761810 ID: af6e04

I see no pressing reason to put on clothes. Proceed through the residential quarters. Immediately dismantle anybody who sees you.
>>
No. 761850 ID: 3e182c

Lets see... loads of potential unarmed enemies with shitty to loot...
Or Fewer enemies with a armed with potential One hit KO needles... but potential weapons abound... And neat lab coats!

Lets go through surgery. More Chances of picking up surprises there. This place is undoubtedly equipped to handle us as is, so the more surprises we have the better.
>>
No. 761853 ID: a107fd

Wear the jumpsuit if it seems like it might be sturdy enough to provide some degree of armor protection. Otherwise, don't bother.

Head for surgery. Some scalpels, or a bonesaw or something, might make Nelson significantly more useful in the all-too-likely event of further violence.
>>
No. 761866 ID: db0da2

I don't trust the jumpsuit, in fact it'd probably be for the best if Nelson took his off, they could be tracked, or bugged, or rigged with something nasty. If you have the keys to the other cells then unlock as many as you can. After that, head to the surgical ward, there might be useful supplies there. Who lives in the residential wing?
>>
No. 761932 ID: 8ede22

>>761866
Seconding having Nelson take off the jump suit. The added psychological effect of guards seeing two naked blood covered killers would be a nice bonus.
>>
No. 761963 ID: 9876c4

Let's not go full psychokiller yet.

We should bluff, misdirect, and kill sparingly and see if we can avoid a full lockdown before we hit the elevators.

I don't think Suplex would disguise easily, though.
>>
No. 761971 ID: 3e182c

>>761963
Doctors uniform on Nelson, Suplex on stretcher cart covered with a sheet. Just hauling a corpse. Nothing to see here.
>>
No. 761975 ID: 9876c4

>>761971
Love it.
>>
No. 762129 ID: c0097f
File 148038343768.png - (11.58KB , 500x500 , 36.png )
762129

You keep your voices low so as not to attract attention from any other cells.
"You wanna ditch the jumpsuit? Could be trackers or whatever. Gotta get this collar off too, actually..."
"We can prioritize that, but I'm not going to run around naked and neither should you."
"Okay, how about this..."
>>
No. 762130 ID: c0097f
File 148038345511.png - (14.39KB , 500x500 , 37.png )
762130

You shove the body into your cell and close it, Nelson locking it tight. There's still a lot of blood, but that's not exactly abnormal for this hallway.
"We get some doctor guy, off 'em. You take the gear, we get a gurney or something similar, and you pretend I'm a corpse. Nobody will even bat an eye."
"...that might actually work, if we can kill a doctor."
>>
No. 762135 ID: 15a025

"if we can kill a doctor."
You make it sound like that's going to be a hard thing to accomplish.
>>
No. 762137 ID: 9876c4

What would warrant a doctor's attention?

Presumably not a dead/wounded intern, but what if Suplex was hurt/sick? The tricky part is killing him cleanly enough for the clothes to be useful.
>>
No. 762142 ID: af6e04

I assume we'll run into a doctor in the surgical area. We'll need to go there to get a gurney anyway.
>>
No. 762457 ID: b9aa79

I doubt they care much about us being hurt or sick, unless we're more special than I think. But Nelson at least has a chance of knowing more about their routines and whereabouts than you do. I think our best bet is make a beeline as low profile as we can hiding anyone we have to kill so they hopefully don't notice someones out and about right away. Based on where nelson thinks is a safe bet to find them, nap the first doctor you see and execute your plan, as well as the doctor.
>>
No. 763738 ID: c0097f
File 148097540362.png - (14.11KB , 500x500 , 38.png )
763738

"You make that sound hard."

"The doctors aren't just trained in medicine. I've seen them wrestle down maybecats far bigger than you."

"A what now?"

"A maybecat. That's what they call you and the others."

"...Huh."

You aren't sure what to make of this news, Sure, you technically know what you are now, but just in name. It doesn't feel...nearly as meaningful as you had hoped.

You walk for some time without any trouble, narrowly dodging some encounters with other interns. Nelson waves them by with a smile, grabbing at your collar just in time. "Just taking her back to surgical. Doctor's orders." They don't seem to care regardless, grunting and carrying on their way.
>>
No. 763740 ID: c0097f
File 148097542313.png - (16.95KB , 500x500 , 39.png )
763740

Nelson finds a map of where you're at.

"This portion of the underground is where maybecat experiments go down, so our doctor scheme is most likely to work- having a corpse down here is super reasonable. There's four different areas here we can try- Medical, Harvest, Birth, and Containment. MEDICAL is what it says on the tin- that's where they patch you up or put your organs back in place...if they like you. HARVEST is where you go to get slaughtered...sorry." He winces. "It's the truth of it. BIRTH is...I've never been inside. Some people say it's where maybecats come from, like the name implies. It's extremely hard to get inside without clearance. CONTAINMENT is where they put maybecats that aren't being experimented on, or are still being worked on, in either a form of stasis or just a cage. No matter which one we go to, there will be doctors, interns, other maybecats and guards. On either end of this sector, there are elevators going up towards the surface; our end goal."
>>
No. 763742 ID: 15a025

Let's hit up medical. Seems like the safest.
>>
No. 763814 ID: 398fe1

>>763740
If doctors are so hard to take down, and there are even stronger foes here probably, maybe we can get an ally from Containment? Or lots of allies. Hah.

Head to Medical or Harvest then sneak into Containment from there. Actually, I wonder if Harvest would be the safest place to say we're heading towards. Corpses go there, right?
>>
No. 763846 ID: 383927

You guys live off killing eachother so I thinks it's safe to say other "maybecats" aren't necessarily friendly; if they think it's better to do what a doctor or whomever says, it's very likely we could be in serious trouble. On that note, I think we need to stay hidden and try containment. It's going to be a mixed bag- some of them may want out but would be willing to stab us in the back, some of them may be willing to work together and some of them might be in their because all they want to do is kill and maim anything they can get their teeth in, so we still need to exercise caution. But if we can get a friend or two on our side, bust them out of containment and work together, then we can fake a break out or fight or some such, kill a doctor and then play dead as if we mauled eachother or got taken out by security or some such. Doctor Nelson wheels us off to dispose of us or patch us up or whatever cover makes the most sense in the moment, and we make our daring escape
>>
No. 763864 ID: af6e04

Medical is right next to Birth, which seems to be very high security. Harvest seems like the path of least resistance. Once we've got the tools for our disguise we head directly to the elevator.
>>
No. 764170 ID: c0097f
File 148110477988.png - (11.69KB , 500x500 , 40.png )
764170

You decide to go through HARVEST towards CONTAINMENT, in search of some new muscle. Nelson manages to clear you past guards between entry and exit points- looks like the higher ups haven't figured out you're gone yet. All it takes is for him to drag you by the collar and explain he's taking you down to Harvest, and they wave him on.

He whispers under his breath to you when he gets a chance.
"This is going to get hard when they find the body, Suplex. Don't get comfortable."

You nod and continue to look as dead as possible.
>>
No. 764171 ID: c0097f
File 148110481432.png - (10.50KB , 500x500 , 41.png )
764171

[HARVEST]

This place reeks of death the second you step into the first hallway. You have to hold back from puking your guts out. It's clean, sterilized everywhere, and not a drop of blood to be seen- but something feels innately haunting and wrong about this place. You hate it immediately, and hope to get the fuck out as soon as possible.
>>
No. 764172 ID: c0097f
File 148110486364.png - (12.65KB , 500x500 , 42.png )
764172

Nelson seems equally uneasy, loosening his grip on your collar to collapse and heave. You twist out of the way as he pukes, disgusted. The least he could do was drop you down gently- but seeing his face stops you mid thought. Nelson looks scared shitless.

"S-sorry...I hate this place. I don't get assigned here often, but when I do, I always have to check out early."

"What, the smell?"

"No...it's like we're being watched, no matter where we go in this awful place."
>>
No. 764173 ID: c0097f
File 148110490033.png - (9.36KB , 500x500 , 43.png )
764173

You find the next map before Nelson does. He wipes his mouth and gets to reading.

"INTAKE is where maybecats are slaughtered and drained. I don't know about you, but unless we absolutely have to go there, I don't want to touch the place. It'd be the least populated place and hypothetically safest to run through, but we have to, well...run through it. There's a lot of bodies, Suplex. More than I think either of us are ready to see."

"PROCESSING is where maybecats are stripped down and seperated into meat, organs, and bones. From there, they're put through an assembly line to ensure they're up to Morbitian meat standard. It's grisly, but I'd prefer it to seeing corpses. This is where the majority of people will be, guards and doctors alike- it'll be high risk, but our reward may be a flawless disguise."

"STORAGE is where the meat is kept. There's a lot of traffic in and out of here, mainly workers. Less so than processing, but they have to take meat in and out pretty much constantly. It's really cold in there, but if we wanted to single somebody out, it's the place to go."
>>
No. 764179 ID: af6e04

Storage seems like the way to go. A flawless disguise won't be much help if there's half a dozen witnesses. Let's hope that fur of yours is thick and warm!
>>
No. 764251 ID: 3e182c

Distasteful as it is lack of enemy numbers, high chance of finding a weapon, and possibility to find another maybecat willing to escape with you, or at least make a distraction with their own escape attempt make intake rather attractive.
>>
No. 764379 ID: 15a025

Go for storage.
>>
No. 764383 ID: 20ec9e

>>764251
Lets go to intake gang!
>>
No. 764394 ID: 9876c4

>>764379
>>764383
Well, Why not both? Storage to kill a dood and take his mittens, then then intake through the side door to cause a commotion, and loot/escape through the rear hatch.
>>
No. 764395 ID: 9876c4
File 148116409788.png - (10.51KB , 500x500 , Suplan.png )
764395

>>764394
To put it another way...
>>
No. 764487 ID: 188451

If the plan was to go through harvest to get to containment, we kinda have to go through intake at least a bit. It would be useful to stop over in storage to grab some rations or whatever for after you get out though. No telling what the outside world will be like and it's better to have a bit of food to fall back on.

So if we can do it, I'd vote for this.>>764395
>>
No. 764512 ID: 398fe1

If we're going into Intake, Nelson can ride on your back while keeping his eyes closed and you can just sortof stare at the ground to keep from looking at too many corpses at once.
>>
No. 764726 ID: 383927

I'm voting against intake, for storage. We said unless we absolutely HAVE TO we didn't want to go near it, and I really don't fancy what would happen if an escaped maybecat and her helper were found passed in somewhere they definitely aren't meant to be. If we're puking out here and it's not bad compared to intake, I really don't wanna experience it.
>>
No. 768277 ID: 85cc2c
File 148275223575.png - (30.16KB , 500x500 , 44.png )
768277

You both decide on going through STORAGE first, and then INTAKE.

First thing you make note of- storage is cold. You've never felt this cold in your whole life, and you regret taking that jumpsuit now more than ever. Nelson's teeth are chattering and you can see your own breath.

The second thing you make note of is the containment chambers. Tightly packed freezers full of it-
>>
No. 768278 ID: 85cc2c
File 148275227239.png - (21.31KB , 500x500 , 45.png )
768278

"Like a capsule hotel, but for meat." Nelson whispers, failing to keep the horror out of his voice. You can't blame the guy. You've eaten maybecats alive and dead alike, and plenty of the processed meat, but it's different here.

"Capsule hotel?"

"Heard it from another intern- little windowed spaces people live in sometimes in the big cities. I always pictured them just like this..."

"Sounds worse than my cell. Least that's got more space to it."
>>
No. 768279 ID: 85cc2c
File 148275232663.png - (26.28KB , 500x500 , 46.png )
768279

You keep to the walls.

"I want to get some fucking clothes." You cling to Nelson's back a bit, fully intent on stealing his body heat.

"I thought you didn't want clothes."

"I didn't want THOSE clothes, could have tracky things. I need escape clothes."

There are a few workers carrying meat from place to place, well bundled up and from the look of it, well armed. The meat capsules go on for aisles and aisles.

A) Go for one of the guards
B) Climb the capsules
C) Get Nelson to distract a guard
D) Sneak around the capsule aisles
E) >____
>>
No. 768281 ID: d79f26

some of them are black. and this is the worst way to store things for volume. they must want to keep the meats separated for some reason.
>>
No. 768282 ID: 9876c4

C, A, D in whatever order seems appropriate. we want to make as silent a kill as possible, and then get dressed.
>>
No. 768285 ID: 64c8e8

Let's just hope your hard nipples poking into Nelson's back isn't distracting him too much - after all, i'd assume they're pretty stiff right now with how cold it is. I'd definitely say sneak around, though, don't kill unless you need to. Don't want to raise an alarm or anything.
>>
No. 768288 ID: 77f1b6

>>768281
>some of them are black

I think that's just a hole without meat stored in it ATM

>we want to make as silent a kill as possible, and then get dressed.

If we're afraid the jump suits would have trackers or monitoring devices, taking any other uniforms could be risky, and we can't wear them while we play dead.

Do your best to tough out the cold, and just stealth your way through here doing your best to keep eachothers hands and feet warm. If you make it through here just know warming up is gonna hurt, so be prepared to grit your teeth and try to bear the temperatures without marking and noises.
>>
No. 786136 ID: 85cc2c
File 148901478969.png - (18.38KB , 500x500 , 47.png )
786136

Nelson steps out and waves to the guard, striking up conversation. You sneak through the nearby aisles, waiting for Nelson to lure the guard over.

You can't quite make out what they're saying, but you don't really care. He drapes his arm over the guard's shoulder and gives you a signal.
>>
No. 786137 ID: 85cc2c
File 148901481258.png - (13.41KB , 500x500 , 48.png )
786137

You make quick work of him. One neck twist, and he's done. You'd have loved to eat him, but bloodstains would draw too much trouble.

You pat around the coat, not finding any sort of tracky things. "All clear."
>>
No. 786138 ID: 85cc2c
File 148901483297.png - (8.74KB , 500x500 , 49.png )
786138

Much better. It's a little small, but it's got pockets and a big fur hood. The best part of course is his weapon- all you know (first hand) is that it shocks people real good. Knocks 'em right out.
>>
No. 786139 ID: 85cc2c
File 148901485928.png - (11.21KB , 500x500 , 50.png )
786139

You keep moving. It's a bit hard to hold your new weapon without dropping it, but if you grip tight enough, it works out.

Looks like the two of you will have some time to whisper. Guess you should actually try to get to know the guy, or something.
>>
No. 786141 ID: b412df

>>786139
Try holding it two handed, should be easier to keep a solid grip that way.
>>
No. 786163 ID: 398fe1

Ask him if he's friends with any of the other guards. Or maybecats.

What does he do on his breaks?
>>
No. 786178 ID: 4b991a

Idea: get into one of the storage container and move the meat around so that you can either hide the body, or eat the body so that the blood stains just get onto the meat and nobody will notice them
Alternatively you could dismember the corpse and hide it between multiple storage containers

But before you go down that fucked up route ask him how he got the dick
>>
No. 786261 ID: 9876c4

Considering you're in cold storage with a hard time limit, the time for talk may be later.

Also, if you're built to rip and tear, let Nelson have the weapon.
>>
No. 786448 ID: 85cc2c
File 148913223797.png - (12.40KB , 500x500 , 51.png )
786448

You hand the shocker over to Nelson.
"Figure this is better for you. I got my teeth."
"Thanks." He takes it and holds it carefully. "I haven't used one this big before, this one's heavy duty."
"As opposed to the ones that can knock you on your ass?"
"Yeah. This would probably kill both of us, and knock out a bigger one."
"...damn."
"Yeah. We got lucky there."

The aisles seem to go on forever, but it's a hell of a lot more tolerable with a proper coat- even if it is chilly on your legs.
"You uh, got any friends?"
"No. Not worth making friends with people who are likely to get eaten anyway."
"What about the other uh, maybecats?"
"Nope. It's not really worth making friends with the people likely to eat you either."
"I mean, you're my friend."
"Am I?"
"Sure. Wouldn't have asked you to come along if we weren't."
"Not just fuck buddies?"
"Nope, congrats. You've gone and graduated."
"Sweet."
>>
No. 786449 ID: 85cc2c
File 148913226076.png - (11.67KB , 500x500 , 52.png )
786449

"How'd you get the cock, anyway?"
"Excuse me?"
"Your dick. Most softbodies don't have those."
"Paid good money for it. Fully functional, and I don't regret it for a second. Makes me feel more like me."
"Yeah?"
"Yeah. My boss found out and kind of a jerk about it, though. That was a hell of a thing to explain."
>>
No. 786450 ID: 85cc2c
File 148913227749.png - (15.75KB , 500x500 , 53.png )
786450

You're gonna ask him something else, but you stop dead in your tracks and drag Nelson back. A whole patrol of guards is coming through, more than you've ever seen in one place. They start talking in hushed but urgent voices, and look scared shitless.

A) Get closer and listen in.
B) Scoot by while they're distracted.
C) Stay put and wait for them to pass.
D) >____
>>
No. 786452 ID: 553847

A) Slide close to listen, of course. (Even if curiosity might kill the maybecat...)
>>
No. 786453 ID: 398fe1

>>786450
A. Gotta find out if they know you've escaped. It's weird, though. They shouldn't be that scared of a single escapee. If something else is happening you really need to know.
>>
No. 786475 ID: 15a025

A.
>>
No. 786483 ID: 4b991a

>A, but try and keep out of sight. They seem afraid of something and you need to make sure if it's you or not.
>>
No. 786592 ID: 85cc2c
File 148921086379.png - (12.53KB , 500x500 , 54.png )
786592

You scoot in.

"She's on the warpath, I'm telling you. I've never seen her like this."
"The Director's always calmed down after an hour or two, but it's been a week.."
"You think it's one of the kids?"
"Has to be."
"Must be Mason. Heard he's falling behind."
"Either way, she's already taken out a few doctors."
"Shit..."
"Yeah. If she's going after doctors, we're in trouble."
>>
No. 786595 ID: 4b991a

Casually suggest escape method
Hey so you're doctors, and we need doctor uniforms for our plan to escape.
In theory you could use the exact same plan, or just swap a uniform with one of us and fake being something other than a doctor until it's safe to be a doctor again.
>>
No. 786601 ID: 659bad

Keep staying hidden until they leave. Not worth risking it.
>>
No. 786603 ID: 398fe1

Yeah let's not expose ourselves until we have a good reason to believe they'll rebel or try to escape. These are just some random guards who're worried about the Director, they might consider it too much of a risk to do anything but their jobs. It might be possible to convince folks like these once we have more pull, more people in the group that's trying to escape. It's easier to go along with an escape attempt if it's likely to succeed, after all.
>>
No. 795131 ID: 95c606

Might be best to just walk away from these folks for now.
>>
No. 798539 ID: 8a251a
File 149340441416.png - (11.93KB , 500x500 , 55.png )
798539

"Are they okay, so far? Do we know they're safe?"
"Don't go soft-"
"I can't help it, they're just kids..."
"All these things were kids, Chance. Every last monster in this building was, once."
"...."
"...."
"I didn't sign up for this, man."
"Yeah, you did."

They're quiet for a long while, but don't move.

"Word has that Doc Fuller's got a way out-"
"Stop. Even saying that could get us all fucked!"
"They do-"
More firmly now, almost threatening. "Stop."
"For Grind's sake, let the man talk."
"....Am I good now?"
"Yeah, go ahead."
"They've got a way out of working here, I know ol' Jim from the birth sector slipped away last week, and they haven't found him. There's a way out."
>>
No. 798545 ID: e12db1

Pick the right moment and present yourself. Ask them if they want to get out too. They look like a bunch of wussies, but if they have your help, they might go through with this escape of theirs, taking you with them.

Of course, this might be a terrible idea, so if you think otherwise, just stay quiet and wait for them to pass. Or sneak past them if they don't move.
>>
No. 798555 ID: ca7e3d

if we wanna try and recruit, wait till they separate, and try to talk to them individually. Less risky that way.
>>
No. 798566 ID: af3241

i'm still hungry. wait until they split up and hunt them down.
>>
No. 798567 ID: 15a025

It might be easy to convince one of them to join our escape group. Ask Nelson how they'd feel about adding another member to the escape group?
>>
No. 798592 ID: 8a251a
File 149342545875.png - (11.63KB , 500x500 , 56.png )
798592

You decide to wait until they separate to make your next move. You could definitely go for a guard or two, but you ignore your stomach in favor of playing it safe. Nelson’s close behind you, and you can practically feel him shake in anxiety. Taking a careful step back, you crouch to his height and drop your voice to little more than a breath.

“We could get one of them to take us out.”
“They’re all armed, Sup.”
“They’re scared too. Scared is what we need. We’ll wait til they split up.”
“Fine. Be careful.”

They keep talking, and you size up your candidates.
>>
No. 798593 ID: 8a251a
File 149342548596.png - (10.01KB , 500x500 , 57.png )
798593

The dog seems to be the most uneasy about the kids- you make a mental note that his name is Chance- and he’d be an ideal target if you could sway his heart. Maybe a bit weak in the emotional department- you could see this guy crying over anything- but passion gets you far. So you’ve been told.
>>
No. 798594 ID: 8a251a
File 149342552519.png - (11.53KB , 500x500 , 58.png )
798594

The cat’s even more rattled up than the dog, but for different reasons. He just wants to save his own hide, but it looks like he wants to do that very badly. Wouldn’t take much to bring him over to your side, especially if you threatened to get rough. You swear he’s shaking in his boots. Both him and the dog look just fine strength-wise- you could take both of em at once, but they’d be stronger than Nelson. You nickname him Kitty.
>>
No. 798595 ID: 8a251a
File 149342556004.png - (11.70KB , 500x500 , 59.png )
798595

The biggest one is another softbody. He isn’t nearly as good looking as Nelson, and Nelson wasn’t exactly a prize catch. He doesn’t want to hear any of this shit, either, shutting down the little one at any turn. He’s definitely the strongest of the bunch from the look of him, but that seems more threatening than helpful right now. You nickname him Hardass.
>>
No. 798596 ID: 8a251a
File 149342558782.png - (7.94KB , 500x500 , 60.png )
798596

The small one, the one who talks about some fuck named Doc Fuller, looks determined, and does his best to talk over the softbody’s complaints. He wouldn’t last a second in a fight, and a small part of yourself wonders what it’d be like to break his legs. He’s got the knowledge, even if you want to eat him. Very badly. You nickname him Morsel.

There was just something about pockitts. Tasty fuckers.

Kitty’s a practical thinker. “Leaving this place isn’t going to help. Just desert out there for miles, Mockery’s too far to walk…”
“Can’t get a car, either. Shit.”
“You’re wasting your time-”
“Rather do that than waste away.”
“How far’s Mockery?”
“Like I said, too far.”
“You think Grind’ll bless us?” Morsel tries to smile, failing.
“Ain’t no gods here.” Hardass growls. “If there were, they would have wiped this place off the map by now.”

There’s no more talk after that, awkward silence filling up the space between em, and the guards drift away. Time to choose.
>>
No. 798598 ID: 553847

> Go for the dog! Sympathetic is good. A willing accomplice is much easier than an unwilling one, no? Better than one who's only in it for themself, too...
>>
No. 798601 ID: 3ce125

Go for Chance. Your morals and objectives might not align perfectly with his but he might consider your relationship with Nelson to be something worth protecting.

Morsel is too smart and weak. He'll want to get away from you as soon as he doesn't need your help. Also you'd get distracted thinking about eating him. If he catches you staring at him too often he might think you're planning on it, even. My impression of Kitty is that he's likely to betray you if it'll save his hide.

Chance and Morsel together might work too. Chance would likely keep Morsel from running off, and would give Morsel some assurance you won't devour him at the first opportunity.

...huh, they're all male? Is that coincidence or are there no female doctors?
>>
No. 798689 ID: cbb6df

Chance and Kitty. Maaaaybe Morsel, at the very least we could use his knowledge now and eat him later.

And why does everyone have such FABULOUS hair.
>>
No. 798706 ID: e12db1

Chance and Morsel, in this order.
Chance would be most loyal. No loss in taking him.
Morsel, we need him to get out. Eat him when we don't need him anymore.
Kitty would betray us in one way or another and Hardass would probably not even join us.
>>
No. 798760 ID: 8111b6

Morsel sounds like they might have a plan. Chance and Kitty also want to get out.

Hardass needs to be killed before he can be a narc.

Kitty might help us do so to save his own hide. Chance seems too softhearted to do so.

If you can take down Hardass, do so.
If you don't think so, recruit Kitty, then Chance.
Kitty, work the angle of saving his own hide.
Chance, work the 'children' angle.

When it's time for Morsel, a larger group might help with recruitment and planning.

With more people, we could pull off more complex tasks needed for escape.
>>
No. 798789 ID: 9876c4

Get one ally. One. Any more and you'll be betrayed. Maybe not so much betrayed as neutralized, as you're a threat and it's their job.

Suplex may not be a reliable narrator. So if she thinks that Hardass sounds tough, he's probably even tougher.
>>
No. 798809 ID: 8a251a
File 149350034020.png - (12.85KB , 500x500 , 61.png )
798809

Chance and Morsel look like good picks. You split up, you going after Chance and Nelson going after Morsel- it'd be a better idea for you not to be alone with a guy you want to eat.

He startles hard when you tap his shoulder, and you clap a paw over his mouth, dragging him aside. You can feel tears falling onto your hand and his breath coming out in hard gasps, but when you let him free, he doesn't yell.

"Yo."
"....yo."
"I'm Suplex. You wanna get outta here?"
"I'm...Chance. Are you gonna kill me?"
>>
No. 798810 ID: 70983e

Yeah, but you get to choose if it's now or later. Do you wanna die now?
>>
No. 798811 ID: 3667ec

tell the new friend that you're actually considering taking up pottery, instead of murder.
>>
No. 798816 ID: 9876c4

We're considering it.
But if he thinks he can be useful, now's the time to say.

Exits? Guards? Keycards?
>>
No. 798817 ID: 8d4593

Im here for my freedom not your life but try anything and I wont think twice.
>>
No. 798820 ID: 7b7ab3

Well, that really depends on you, friend.
Help us get out of here and we'll treat you like family.
Try and stop us or rat us out and we'll open your veins with our teeth.
So what do you say? Friends?
>>
No. 798826 ID: 8cb228

I've been known to do a spot of cold-hearted, premeditated murder in my time. That said, it's terrible! Blood gets absolutely everywhere, and is very difficult to get out of fur! So I'd prefer you be as helpful as possible, and we can all get out of here together, with our blood on the inside, like friends. How about it?
>>
No. 798828 ID: ffb773

Seconding the motion to kiss
>>
No. 798829 ID: b412df

Only if you rat us out. (Not sure if we should use us or me here, since us implies more than one, could be good / bad to imply that).

Say you overheard their conversation, then suggest that if someone people managed to escape they could tell people about this place, let the world know what's happening in here, what's happening to kids in here; and maybe they could get some of those kids out at the same time, and maybe also do some damage on their way out too.

(Basically try to link escaping with helping the kids)
>>
No. 798873 ID: 15a025

You wanna get out of this dump?
>>
No. 798887 ID: 3ce125

>>798809
Tell him if he helps you escape then you won't kill him.

Don't kiss him, why would you even do that?
>>
No. 798941 ID: 3ce125

>>798939
But she has no urge or need to kiss him? She doesn't know him. It would just be weird.
>>
No. 798948 ID: 8111b6

That depends on you. We could blow this joint, part ways, and never have to see each other again, or... you could do something that makes me feel hungry.

... You think that stick in the mud softbody back there might rat you guys out for that chat back there?

(I'd go with just leaning on him a bit. Not overtly hostile, but could go that way if needed. Can also be interpreted as sociability.)
>>
No. 798977 ID: 987bda

>>798809
"You'd be far from the first, but if I wanted you dead you would be dead.
See, I want to live somewhere that I don't have to murder people until my own inevitable murder, and I'm inviting you to help me get from rampant-murderville to scenic not-killingtons.
If you're up for helping me, and ideally the kids, escape, then I'd be happy to live and let live.
Otherwise, well, I'm still stuck in rampant-murderville, and there's no room free between 'with me' and 'against me' to fit an intact body.

Is that clear enough?"
>>
No. 798980 ID: db0da2

Not if I don't have to. This isn't how I'd normally choose to make friends, but you know how it is. Way I see it, we're either buddies or one of us dies, and I really really wouldn't bet on it being me. Honestly though, we should be friends; we share so many interests, like getting the fuck out of here, and not dying.

Don't come on to him overtly unless he shows some kind of interest first, there's a lot of backfire potential there.
>>
No. 798987 ID: 8a251a
File 149358063199.png - (10.98KB , 500x500 , 62.png )
798987

You consider kissing him, but you don't think that'd help much right now. You only go for dudes who creep on you first, and Chance here is ready to piss himself.

“Yeah, maybe. If you cooperate, it won’t be now instead of later, maybe even never. You help us get out of here and we’ll treat you like family- if you try and stop us or get away, you might make me feel very hungry.”

“I’ll cooperate, I’ll c-cooperate! Just don’t kill any kids on your way out!”

“We don’t wanna do that, no- we heard your chat back there and if anything, we could go and help those kids, tell people outside about them.”

He calms down a little at that, and an almost determined look settles on his face. “We’ll save them?”

“We’ll do our best. We got common interests here, bud- we both want to get out of here and not die.”

“Right. Okay….I’ll do it.” He still looks a bit hesitant, but you’re pretty sure he doesn’t want to run out on you. Death’s a powerful motivator.

Looks like he’s set. Do you want to talk to him some more, or head back to Nelson?
>>
No. 798989 ID: 3667ec

inform him that he made the right choice

cement this statement with a friendly pat on the back
>>
No. 798990 ID: db0da2

Shake on it and get going. We don't need to try to be intimidating here, he's already afraid of us. What we need now is to come off as stable. If we're a known quantity, if he can be confident that we won't kill him if he doesn't cross us and that we will if he does, then that fear will become respect, and possibly even loyalty. Once we have the morsel with us we can work on a plan and hash out specifics to this deal of ours.
>>
No. 798992 ID: e12db1

Don't say another word to him. We already said too much.

Head back to Nelson. If he knows or wants to know something, he'll speak to us.
>>
No. 798996 ID: 901d83

give him a hug, comment on fabylous hair, tell him he's cute even if he's not your type.
>>
No. 798997 ID: 70983e

Head back. Time is of the essence.
>>
No. 799348 ID: 8a251a
File 149375211552.png - (10.27KB , 500x500 , 63.png )
799348

"You made the right choice."
You hold out your paw for him to shake, and he does so very carefully.
You let him walk in front of you, keeping to the aisles until Nelson and Morsel are in sight. Morsel waves at you and Chance, an odd smile on his face.

"I'm Dwayne." He says to you, with an affirmative nod. For such a small and delicious looking person, he had this strong gaze, one that made you feel a little respect towards him. "Glad to be serving you on this little adventure. She wrangle you into this, Chance?"

"No, sir. She's going to help us save the children."

"Glad to hear it. Y'all ready to meet Doc Fuller?"
>>
No. 799349 ID: 3583d1

Damn straight!
>>
No. 799350 ID: db0da2

Certainly.
>>
No. 799351 ID: e12db1

It's the one thing he's gonna be glad about when we're munching on his bones.

Tell him that we're ready but ask if the doc is ready to meet us.
>>
No. 799363 ID: 3b797e

Compliment him by saying how delicious he looks. or ... maybe not.
>>
No. 799420 ID: 350a50

Never underestimate manlets. They have the most to prove.
>>
No. 799428 ID: 3ce125

I wonder what Dwayne and Nelson talked about?
>>
No. 799518 ID: 8a251a
File 149384054297.png - (15.05KB , 500x500 , 64.png )
799518

"Are they ready to meet us?"
"Maybe. Only way to find out is ask. She's pretty busy, but I'm sure she'll make time to talk to us."

You leave it at that and the group gets moving, letting you and Nelson have some time to talk.
"What did you two talk about?"
"I told him straight- we want out, and we'll take him with us if he helps. He thinks there's strength in numbers, and doesn't seem to worry about dying. Weird guy, but he doesn't feel like a liar."
>>
No. 799519 ID: 3ce125

>>799518
Ask Dwayne what makes him so confident.
>>
No. 799521 ID: 3a9b77

This all seems too easy.
Expect the worst.
>>
No. 799530 ID: e12db1

Before asking Dwayne why he's so confident, I'd ask him why he's so yumm.. I mean, why the smirk on his face?
>>
No. 799733 ID: 8a251a
File 149394173587.png - (9.72KB , 500x500 , 65.png )
799733

You proceed with caution. Something's wrong about this.

"What's with the smirk?" You growl lightly. "I wouldn't be so confident if I were you."

"Just thinking. I never thought to recruit a maybecat to help, but here we are. I could have gotten out long ago if I had, seeing as you're all stronger than I could ever be. Maybe you're the missing piece of the puzzle."
>>
No. 799734 ID: b412df

"Fair enough." I'd still keep a bit of a eye out, just in case, but otherwise let's go see Doc Fuller. I think he is fine but something about him rubs me the wrong way.

Keep in mind that you still need to avoid other guards since you're not supposed to be out of your cell.
>>
No. 799737 ID: 3ce125

Let him know if he betrays you, or you think he's going to betray you, you're gonna eat him slowly.
>>
No. 799744 ID: db0da2

>>799737
Think it, don't say it. It's better if he thinks we aren't that suspicious of him, that way he'll be more likely to slip up if he really is plotting something.
>>
No. 799747 ID: 350a50

>>799744
Agreed.
>>
No. 799799 ID: e12db1

Ask what is "warpath".
Ask why do they call you "maybecats".
Ask why does he require physical strength to escape.
>>
No. 799997 ID: 8a251a
File 149409712342.png - (11.67KB , 500x500 , 66.png )
799997

"Fair enough. Why did you say She's on the warpath?"
"The Director is a stern woman, to say the least. Got a god in her pocket, and she's using it well."
"That's a rumor."
"No, I've seen it too." Nelson pipes up, voice a bit shaky.
"I just...can't believe it."
"Even if you don't Chance, I do, and even without the god, she can kill a man with her bare hands easy. Have to be at least five staff members found slaughtered in their beds. Gruesome shit."

"What's with the maybecat name? I don't get it."
"Well, we got a saying around here about you people. Maybe they're cats, maybe they aren't. You sure started out as them, but you aren't quite that anymore."
"Be nice, Dwayne!" Chance makes a little protesting whine. "What he means to say is that you're mutated karacels, technically speaking. It's not a nice term, I think. I rather call you by name...or number, I guess. Maybecat's dehumanizing."
"Whatever you say, Chance."

"Why do we need to strength our way out of this?"
"Even if we get Doc Fuller's help, she warned me it's gonna be tough either way. If we get caught, we're gonna get straight up murdered, no hesitation. Having a little bit of muscle helps our chances."
>>
No. 800000 ID: e12db1

Explain "god".
Explain "karacel".
Tell us about Dr. Fuller and ask if there's anything we should worry about when in her presence.
>>
No. 800003 ID: 9876c4

The ideology isn't really important now.

Seconds are ticking by. What needs doing, and how?
>>
No. 800149 ID: 83b227

From what you hear about the Director, you guys are dead already if she even thinks you've thought about escaping. Which means there's really no choice but to escape now, is there?
>>
No. 800169 ID: db0da2

>>799997
How can you tell it's a god? Which god is it?
>>
No. 800336 ID: 8a251a
File 149419924546.png - (23.29KB , 500x500 , 67.png )
800336

"We're dead if she even thinks about us escaping from the sound of it." You growl. "More reason to get the hell out."
"Exactly. Doc Fuller's been able to stay under the radar for a long while, but we still have to be careful."

"I still got some questions, 'bout her and other stuff-"
There's guards, distantly approaching from what looks like the exit of this storage warehouse.

A) Pretend to be dead
B) Pretend to be kidnapped
C) Rush down the guards
D) _____
>>
No. 800337 ID: 9876c4

We are 3/4 licensed personnel.

A) Pretend to be dead
Nelson and chance can carry you
>>
No. 800338 ID: 9690f3

Play tell. Get 'em to tell the guards we're not fit for reprocessing.
>>
No. 800341 ID: e12db1

Maybecats don't wear guard clothes, so pretending to be dead or anything else would alert them the moment they'd see our face.

Basically, we'd have to take our clothes off first, and I don't think we have time for that.

I think our best options would be:

D) Take a side route and bypass the guards while our team distracts them.
or
E) Stay low behind Nelson/Chance so they can't see your face. And if they notice you, your team should take them out with the shocking rods.
>>
No. 800344 ID: 350a50

>>800341
This, favoring option D. Bonus points if you can sneak around behind and take them out; more weapons for our crew.
>>
No. 800349 ID: adbbb5

>>800341
D seems like the best option.
>>
No. 800360 ID: 3befdd

F) Seduce them.
>>
No. 800377 ID: 987bda

>>800336
F: Act like you're not doing anything wrong. The others should greet the guards as you walk past.
If they ask what's going on, the answer is that Doc Fuller had you test some drug to pacify maybecats, and wanted to see the results.

It's not crime that gets people caught, it's the appearance of guilt or a coverup. Guards are trained to spot the signs of people hiding something. Your group is going to look nervous no matter what, but if they're with a maybecat on an experimental drug that makes perfect sense. However, they wouldn't be nervous about hauling around a dead maybecat since they do that all the time.
Further, the fact that you're not even bothering to try to hide what your doing tells people that what you're doing is exactly what you're supposed to be doing.
>>
No. 800689 ID: 36b2d3

>>800377
This is good too.
>>
No. 800767 ID: ba56e6

>>800377
Hm, the logic in this stands. Perhaps refuge in audacity is a better bet; if we can see them, they could see someone break off of the group.

Changing my vote to this. Pretend to be pacified.
>>
No. 800843 ID: 393ae0

>>800377
>Doc Fuller had you test some drug to pacify maybecats
That's bs which no one would fall for. If such an experiment was done, then all guards would've been informed about it beforehand. Especially an experiment as dangerous as this. Also, there is no logical reason to dress up a maybecat in guard clothes, even if pacified. I can spot a bunch of other logical fallacies in this suggestion, but let's just say it's really bad. Even worse than the original choices.
>>
No. 800855 ID: db0da2

>>800341
I like E, every other suggestion serms like it would draw attention from a distance, but they probably won't notice E until it's too late.
>>
No. 800933 ID: 82118d

Subduce them all
they may be good allies
>>
No. 801144 ID: 15a025

D. Find a hiding spot and see if they move on to somewhere else.
>>
No. 801149 ID: 91ee5f

>>800843
I agree, there's no way that's going to work.
>>
No. 801809 ID: 8a251a
File 149480083656.png - (17.98KB , 500x500 , 68.png )
801809

You duck down behind Nelson and Chance, praying your movement didn't look too suspiscious and you went undetected. Maybe they'll just pass by...

"Where are y'all going? Need a hand?"

Well, fuck.
>>
No. 801811 ID: 6f97db

Let Dwayne do the talking while you look away.

If they touch you, turn to them and bite their face off.
>>
No. 801814 ID: db0da2

Are they within leaping distance? If so, pounce on them and hold their jaws shut, and get help pinning them if you need it. If any of the others can vouch for them they get to join us, otherwise we eat them.
>>
No. 801819 ID: f0e552

>>801809
pretty sure the one on the right saw you, watch for any suspicious movement from him.
>>
No. 801823 ID: adbbb5

>>801809
Keep calm, don't mess this up! If you have to, kill them, otherwise try to remain undetected. Remember, if you off them, the blood will draw attention to you later on.
>>
No. 801825 ID: db0da2

>>801823
We could break their necks.
>>
No. 801826 ID: 987bda

>>801809
"Going to see Doc Fuller to give him an update on one of his tests. We're good, but thanks for the offer.
>>
No. 801827 ID: adbbb5

>>801825
That's easy when it's just one guy, but since they're two, it'll be pretty hard to pull it off without making noise.
>>
No. 801832 ID: db0da2

>>801827
They're within arm's reach of each other, so we could stop both of them from tslking at once. There'd definitely still be a chance of causing a ruckus, but I think it's better than hoping they somehow just don't notice us standing right there. We have the element of surprise, we should use it while we can.
>>
No. 803988 ID: 8a251a
File 149558512225.png - (18.88KB , 500x500 , 69.png )
803988

You do your best to stay as still as possible as Dwayne starts talking.
“We’re fine, thank you. We were just on our way to intake.”
“Doing our patrol shift.” Nelson chimes in, keeping his voice even.
“Thank you for offering to help!” Chance does his best to keep his voice steady.
>>
No. 803989 ID: 8a251a
File 149558513803.png - (15.76KB , 500x500 , 70.png )
803989

“Just the four of you?” The left dog starts to smile, and you swear the entire party breaks into a cold sweat.
“There are three of us, with all due respect.”
>>
No. 803990 ID: 8a251a
File 149558516334.png - (16.49KB , 500x500 , 71.png )
803990

“Pretty sure I saw another one of you in this group, unless my counting’s wrong…”
Their smile widens and they elbow their partner, who startles a bit.
“No, I saw them too. P-pretty sure.”
>>
No. 803991 ID: 8a251a
File 149558519059.png - (17.36KB , 500x500 , 72.png )
803991

The left dog shoves Dwayne aside, grabbing you by the ears and grinning. You grit your teeth and try not to yell from having your ears yanked on so hard, but they only squeeze their hands harder.
“Nope, looks like I caught myself a runaway.”
>>
No. 803993 ID: 8a251a
File 149558524705.png - (12.95KB , 500x500 , 73.png )
803993

Their partner extends his weapon- one of the shock sticks, a deadly one. He looks nervous around you, but his grip on the weapon looks tight and determined. He will absolutely try to kill you, and his partner’s face has spread into a nasty sneer. Everyone else has backed up significantly, waiting for your direction.

Nelson, Chance and Dwayne are all armed with deadly shock sticks, as are the two fucks harassing you. You can move the rest of your body just fine, but the grip on your ears isn’t coming loose easy and you risk hurting yourself if you move too quickly or too dramatically. The one holding your ears can’t get their shock stick without letting you loose, but also seems to be using you as a meat shield. Fantastic.

pick as many or as you like, in any order. elaborating on how you’d like to carry out your choices is a very, very smart idea.

A) Break their necks.
B) Devour them.
C) Bash their heads in.
D) Get the hell out of here and run.
E) Pin down and restrain them.
F) Shock them.
G) ________
>>
No. 803996 ID: 3ce125

>>803991
C, grab their hands and KICK THEM IN THE JIMMY OR WHATEVER'S DOWN THERE (it'll hurt either way)
You want to get this one to let go so you can try to B, Bite out their throat or at least get them and you out of the way of your friends double-teaming their partner by F, using the shock sticks against him.

Might be able to get their partner to accidentally use his shock stick against them.
>>
No. 804004 ID: af3241

B) i wanna MUNCH
>>
No. 804007 ID: 6e7cc1

"Looks like you caught your chance at being free, or butchered and stored here. Offer expires as soon as your buddy takes another step closer."

>Suplex: if the grip loosens as if they're gonna go for the stick try and grab it first, and push them off onto their buddy
>Nelson, Chance, Dwayne: vouch for the escape offer being a team effort, and if it goes south the strongest take on the backup guard, and the leftover tries to take advantage of even a brief moment to take the other guard out.
>Any casualties will be disposed of by removing the clothing and hiding the bodies under meat, dismemberment and putting the parts in different areas is optional.
>>
No. 804008 ID: 91ee5f

>>801832
What was that you were saying about having the element of surprise? Because they knew we were there the whole time.

>>803993
G) Live up to your name and suplex the one grabbing you!
>>
No. 804010 ID: 5ea504

Devour the fucker and have your buddies blitzkrieg the other guard.
>>
No. 804021 ID: 600f38

>>804008
And if we hadn't bothered to hide, they wouldn't have been suspicious.
>>803991
They're unsure what to do, but once you start moving they'll respond.
"Ow! Lay off the ears, you fucks!
Ok, you caught us! We're breaking out! Even the doctors are panicking since SHE has started killing them. You think you've got better odds than them?
Here's how this goes down. If you fight us you might be able to kill one or two of us before you die. If you help us then nobody dies, and you can stay here or come with us - I don't care which.
So what's it going to be?"

If at any time the one with a shock rod makes a sudden move, punch the one holding you in the chest and fling him at his partner.
>>
No. 804075 ID: ba56e6

Use the one grabbing you as YOUR meatshield.
>>
No. 804124 ID: 393ae0

B (devour) won't work because our ears are being held.
C (bash head in) won't work because I think we're not strong enough. With our teeth sure, but not with our hands.
D (run) might or might not work. There's no guarantee that we can escape the grip, that we run faster, or that we wouldn't get shocked trying to get away. And even if we do, it would leave our team in a dangerous situation.
E (pin down) is also sketchy at best. Either the left dog would shock us, or we would give the right one enough time to do so.

I would go with A (break neck). To be precise, Suplex should position herself in a way the right dog can't shock her and order our team to surround and shock the right dog. It should be easy to do 3 on 1. Then Suplex should break the neck of the left dog with her hands, of course, while being careful the dog can't draw the rod.
>>
No. 804126 ID: 393ae0

>>804021
I like this too but, you're assuming everyone knows what's going on with the Director. I'd sooner assume that most employees don't know anything or don't care. Also I think bringing even more people with us isn't a good idea.
>>
No. 804150 ID: 8111b6

A suplex is in order, and you don't even have to worry about if they bleed when you grab 'em. That guy dies for hurting your ears. Follow up after to make sure of it.

"Couldn't have played along, and now you've both died for it."
>>
No. 804157 ID: da72f1

You are in a near perfect position for bear hug and suplex.
>>
No. 804162 ID: dbf8a5

Crush the one in front of you's windpipe and take his stick. Shove him into his buddy's stick, then use the shock stick on the latter. Eat the bodies.
>>
No. 804163 ID: 15a025

G. Suplex the ear grabber
Then
B. Devour them!
>>
No. 804282 ID: 7b3f54

Your ears are too weak. You need to train your ears to be strong. Then you can suplex the Director with your strong ears. She'll never see it coming.
>>
No. 832622 ID: 8a251a
File 150631853219.png - (139.24KB , 1500x1552 , 74done.png )
832622

You start pushing the dog away with a hand and slug the them in the face, more than a little pleased to see a tooth go flying. They lose their grip on your ears and that’s all you need.

You’ve been waiting too long to do this.
>>
No. 832623 ID: 8a251a
File 150631855173.png - (44.15KB , 1267x521 , 75.png )
832623

You twist slightly and land on your side, avoiding the fate of your victim. It still hurts, but it’s better than slamming your back onto hard concrete. They’re not dead, but they sure as hell aren’t getting up anytime soon.
>>
No. 832624 ID: 8a251a
File 150631857155.png - (31.66KB , 650x529 , 76.png )
832624

Your entourage is facing off against the other guy, who looks carefully between the three of them, choosing his target.
>>
No. 832625 ID: 8a251a
File 150631859578.png - (74.57KB , 1029x1104 , 77.png )
832625

Unfortunately, he picks Chance- who panics immediately. He does his best to block the dog’s blows, narrowly avoiding fatal shocks.
>>
No. 832626 ID: 8a251a
File 150631861842.png - (112.36KB , 1000x1600 , 78.png )
832626

The dog keeps up his brutal barrage of strikes, Chance just barely able to keep the stick away from him. Terrified, he risks a strike…

And it lands.

The room goes dead silent.
>>
No. 832627 ID: 8a251a
File 150631864673.png - (27.18KB , 441x882 , 79.png )
832627

“....I-I got him.”
>>
No. 832629 ID: 3ce125

If there's any information we need, we can interrogate now. Otherwise it might be best to either finish them off or stow them somewhere they won't be found for a while. Gagged, of course.
>>
No. 832630 ID: 91ee5f

>>832627
Looks like Chance isn't completely useless after all! Nice work!

All right, both of the guards are down. So now what do we do with them? We obviously can't let them go because they'll sound an alarm when they wake up.

Maybe we should tell your group of buddies to give you a little privacy so that you can devour "dispose" of the guards' bodies behind one of the shelves in here?

Make sure you take their stuff from them first!
>>
No. 832634 ID: 91ee5f

>>832630
Also, if either of them have a bigger jacket than the one you're currently wearing, then go ahead and take it from them.
>>
No. 832635 ID: eda54c

console him
>>
No. 832636 ID: eda54c

>>832635
and give positive reinforcement for his actions
>>
No. 832692 ID: b7d9a2

>>832627
I think eating them might upset your entourage. They aren't used to violence.

Can you interrogate them, then tie them up and throw them in a crate or something? That would probably be best for morale.
>>
No. 832711 ID: 0d45a9

>>832647
Are you doing this on purpose? It's blindingly obvious why he teared up, he just killed one of his coworkers for goodness sake. And I'm guessing he's smiling because the fight ended in a success?

Take what you need from the bodies then hide them, gag and bind the unconscious one. Chance will probably need consoling or at least talking to when the adrenaline wears off.
>>
No. 832716 ID: 91ee5f

>>832692
Then they're going to have to get used to it because there's going to be more violence if we're ever going to get outta here alive!
>>
No. 832724 ID: 3667ec

Give him a pat on the back, or something.
>>
No. 832750 ID: 9876c4

I feel like the escaped cannibal bioweapon is a poor choice to play team psychologist.

But hey, if no one else is gonna step up...
>>
No. 832758 ID: 41c9bc

>>832627
"Guess that guy shouldn't have chanced it."
>>
No. 832759 ID: 4ceb21

"Sick. Good job."

Make sure they're dead. Eat as much of them as you can now, and hide what you don't eat.
>>
No. 832923 ID: 8a251a
File 150640543981.png - (20.10KB , 550x550 , 80.png )
832923

You excuse yourself and drag the living guard behind one of the huge storage units and get to work, taking his head off first. No point in making the guy suffer after that suplex. Your jaw unhinges and it’s all over from there, full for the first time in god knows how long. You haven’t been fed well in ages, but you know with the way you get hungry, you’re only going to be good for a couple hours.

Better than being hungry.
>>
No. 832924 ID: 8a251a
File 150640546052.png - (18.72KB , 550x550 , 81.png )
832924

You come back and see Nelson patting Chance on the back, and go over to join him. You pat him on the shoulder and do your best to give an approving grin, hoping it doesn’t look too much like a snarl.

“Sick. Guess that guy shouldn’t have chanced it.”

He laughs and sniffles, wiping his nose a bit. “Th-thanks. Sorry, I just...I don’t like killing things. I’m in charge of the little ones, and death never gets easier...or having to put anyone down.”

You’re a little taken aback by this, but it makes a lot of sense- back when you were small, your siblings would get taken away pretty regularly as soon as they showed weakness, sometimes made to fight and kill each other for both the Director’s amusement and testing for strength and skills.

“You did good. If you’ve got that kind of strength, we’ll get those kids out of here for sure.”

He smiles wide now, proud of himself. He wipes his eyes and stands tall, and you get the feeling you were right to pick him up.
>>
No. 832925 ID: 8a251a
File 150640549189.png - (20.92KB , 550x550 , 82.png )
832925

Your group starts getting to work, stashing the dead body in a meat capsule- but not before taking his coat and shock stick- even if you couldn’t use it well thanks to having no thumbs, it was better than nothing at all. You pull two pieces of plastic out of their pockets, handing them to Nelson.

“Clearance cards….sweet. These’ll get us into anywhere in the Maybecat sector. Shit, that’s good.”
>>
No. 832927 ID: 7b53bd

lets keep on movin!
>>
No. 832929 ID: 173012

Maybe consider stealth plans? Or a way to create an ambush the next time a confrontation happens?

But yeah let's make sure maybecats don't have to keep living like this.
>>
No. 832934 ID: 91ee5f

Ok, so, we're still in STORAGE, right? Weren't we planning to go from here and then go through INTAKE to get to the exit?

That was our plan according to this: >>768277 , right?

And the door those guards came from leads to INTAKE, right? So let's get going to there!

Just be prepared because like Nelson said, "There's a lot of bodies in INTAKE. More than I think either of us are ready to see."
>>
No. 832935 ID: 3ce125

It occurs to me our new allies may object to going through INTAKE, and may be able to help us continue on a different route.
>>
No. 832937 ID: 91ee5f

>>832935
If they know of a different route, then yeah, let's go for that!

But if they don't.....then hopefully we won't run into anything that'll make us stay in there longer than necessary!
>>
No. 832948 ID: 41c9bc

>>832937
This. Consult the others first. If there are no better ideas, we can stick with the plan.
>>
No. 833025 ID: 8a251a
File 150647612880.png - (20.28KB , 550x550 , 83.png )
833025

It’s time to keep moving- and debrief the rest of your team.

“Our plan is to go to INTAKE, and get the hell out from there.”

Chance’s face turns pale, and you even catch Dwayne swallowing hard. Dwayne is the first to speak, keeping his voice as calm as possible.

“Me and Chance, we’re just here to fill in for some workers that got sick- they can’t have people infecting the meat here. We handle small maybecats, like the newborns and kids, and the ones that just never grew. I’ve never been in there.”

Chance nods, doing his best to look brave. “I have, and it’s a really bad place...They don’t always bring them in dead, and-” He shudders. “I’ve had to deliver a few injured ones before, and I couldn’t watch.”
>>
No. 833027 ID: 8a251a
File 150647615045.png - (13.16KB , 550x550 , 84.png )
833027

“It’s the clearest route.” Nelson pipes up. “We’re right here at the door for it, and it’s easier than going through the halls with maximum security. I don’t want to go in there anymore than you do, but it’s our best shot.”
>>
No. 833028 ID: 8a251a
File 150647616811.png - (17.08KB , 550x550 , 85.png )
833028

Everyone gets quiet again. No one wants to do this, and you’re starting to get the feeling that it may be too much for even you.

“We have no choice.” You settle on. “We have no better ideas, and we should stick with the plan. I want to know what we’re going into, and be honest.”

“I’ll answer your questions as best I can- about anything. I’m not very good around the bigger cats, but I know a lot from watching and having to go between sectors.” Chance offers. “We can walk and talk.”
>>
No. 833029 ID: 600f38

>>833025
"Live ones slated for death? You mean more recruits?"
>>
No. 833030 ID: 3ce125

Intake... it's a killing room, as well as corpse storage? Can we just... look at our feet?
>>
No. 833033 ID: 91ee5f

>>833028
>“I’ll answer your questions as best I can- about anything. I’m not very good around the bigger cats, but I know a lot from watching and having to go between sectors.” Chance offers. “We can walk and talk.”
"Is there anything in there that we should avoid? Besides any guards that are in there."

>>833030
That's a good way to bump into something that you really don't want to bump into!

Plus, if we can't see where we're going, then how are we going to find the door to get out?
>>
No. 833101 ID: 9876c4

>>833029
Probably not. If someone upstairs locks down the elevators, we all die. Best to go quick and quiet, whatever horrors are going on.
>>
No. 833105 ID: 91ee5f

>>833101
Agreed.
>>
No. 833136 ID: 41c9bc

>>833101
Yup.

If we escape, if we get somewhere safe, if we find allies, THAT'S when we start planning revenge/rescue operations.
>>
No. 833185 ID: 6d9fef

>>833028
Have you considered growing a mustache?
>>
No. 835971 ID: 8a251a
File 150776817235.png - (18.18KB , 550x550 , 86.png )
835971

"Live ones slated for death? You mean more recruits?"

“I mean, it’d be risky...Everybody brought in is sedated and restrained, and while they’d probably be willing to go with us…” It looks like it pains him to say it. “The larger our numbers get, the more obvious we are. I want to rescue as many as we can, but this part of the facility is really dangerous.”


“What should we be on the lookout for?”

“Guards and workers...and all of the gore is really terrible, it’s hard to stomach. There aren’t many workers, seeing as it’s the least populated place in Harvest, but we won’t be alone.


“Have you considered growing a mustache? Might look good on you.”

“Oh, sometimes! I’ve always been on the fence, but if you think it’d really look nice, I might just consider it if we get out of here!”
>>
No. 835986 ID: 7b53bd

what kinda mustache? handlebar? curly? 70's porno?
>>
No. 836004 ID: 600f38

>>835971
"Yeah, if we stick as one group we'd get spotted, but they don't need to come with us to help.
We tell them to hide for an hour so we can get a path to the exit, then start freeing prisoners and killing or recruiting all the guards, and follow our path.

If we get sloppy and leave a path, they'll be the cavalry. If we don't, the prison riot will be a distraction while we make a break for it.
Shitty, but they're still better off."
>>
No. 836242 ID: 41c9bc

>>835986
I think he could pull off one of those thin, curly ones.

>>835971
He's got a point. Let's keep it quick and quiet, sedated prisoners will just slow us down.
>>
No. 836259 ID: 9876c4

A Tom Selleck, for sure.
>>
No. 839536 ID: e54266

>>836004
Solid plan.
>>
No. 843118 ID: 8a251a
File 151004286808.png - (22.60KB , 550x550 , 87.png )
843118

“What kinda stache, though? How do you dogs grow those, anyway.”

Chance seems to be relaxing a bit more as you walk and talk.

“Well, only some of us can grow some extra fluff, but I’ve got a good shot, I think. I wouldn’t want it too long, otherwise it looks too threatening-”

Dwayne clears his throat.
“Chance’s good looks aside, we need to focus on strategy.”
Chance looks embarrassed, but it seems like he appreciated the break from the doom and gloom. “R-right! Right.”
>>
No. 843120 ID: 8a251a
File 151004289847.png - (20.57KB , 550x550 , 88.png )
843120

You take the opportunity to bring up an idea.
“With my siblings...who says they gotta come with us. Hear me out- we break some out, maybe a lot, and we get em to hide. We make a path to the exit, they start coming our way and free more people, kill more guards on the way. Either way-” A grin spreads across your face. “We save a lot of people or we raise a hell of a distraction.”

“That sounds reckless-”
“But it could work.” Nelson cuts Chance off. “How many maybecats are in Intake?”

“Well, they have two days a week set aside for culling- today included. There’s anywhere from ten to fifty karacels in there, but the facility’s meant for a lot more than what comes through these days. There’ll be a lot of machinery, and a lot of ground to cover if we go out of our way to save people. They’ll probably be in different groups and separated by size. If you want to try this….we run a huge risk, but it might work!”
>>
No. 843121 ID: 094652

Solid plan; this place is a meat grinder, so anyone left behind is marked for death. Get as many prisoners on their feet as you can, worry about casualties when they're no longer dead children walking.
>>
No. 843241 ID: 91ee5f

So I guess we're doing this? Unless someone else has a better plan?
>>
No. 843311 ID: 9876c4

>>843241
My "better" plan was not to do this. So yeah. I guess.
>>
No. 844366 ID: 8a251a
File 151045170480.png - (53.03KB , 1050x800 , 89.png )
844366

“We’ll get as many prisoners out of this meat grinder and we can and worry about casualties later-” You freeze, Chance pushing open the doors to Intake. The space is absolutely massive, mostly open space between blood splattered kill floors. You try not to focus on the tubes coming off of each structure, chunks of what you assume were your siblings shooting through into the unknown.

“Okay.” Chance inhales sharply, and you see Nelson start to gag again at the smell. “This is it. Down the middle there is management and worker buildings, we don’t want to go there unless you absolutely want to get caught. There’s four different sizes of kill floor here, based on karacel size- small, medium, large, and that.”

He points all the way to the very, very far right corner. You can barely make out an absolutely massive wall, with equally large tubes. “There’s only one titan class kill floor- that’s where the really big ones go. They don’t have much coming through there, usually, but I’ve heard of twenty foot tall behemoths getting sent in.”
>>
No. 844367 ID: 8a251a
File 151045173932.png - (39.39KB , 800x800 , 90.png )
844367

“To our right, we have the control room- we don’t want to go in there either, honestly...there’ll be a high concentration of workers and no way we won’t get spotted. But...the tricky part is going to be sneaking around with people able to see most of the floor from up there...so I don’t know. If you have any ideas there, I’m drawing a blank.

Further to the right, we have the medium kill floors,, small kill floors, and a single large killfloor….the exit’s also that way. The titan floor’s way over in the corner, too.”
>>
No. 844368 ID: 8a251a
File 151045178637.png - (159.82KB , 800x800 , 91.png )
844368

“To our left, we have the rest of the large kill floors...there should be three of them, I think. Not all of these are operational, but I can see a few workers at the closest one. The pens are kept towards the wall, so if we wanted to sneak in there first, we’d have a good shot. That’s about all I know...I hope you’ve got a plan."
>>
No. 844369 ID: 3ce125

This is a lot more sterile than I was expecting.
>>844368
Sneak towards the pens, just to recon the place and come up with a plan once we see how it's structured.

...how the heck do they corral the titans? Are there similarly large guards?
>>
No. 844377 ID: 91ee5f

>>844369
This.

>...how the heck do they corral the titans? Are there similarly large guards?
I hope it's not large guards! That would be terrible to run into!

I think maybe the titans are just drugged to the point where they'll do what the guards tell them to do.
>>
No. 844420 ID: 9876c4

ten to one the control room is where an alert gets sent out from.

So we neutralize that first (somehow) then hit one killing floor, maybe 2 on our way out.

Our only chance might be for one of our party to locate the alert button and guard it, while the rest attack. Unless there's a circuit breaker or wire we could cut?
>>
No. 844838 ID: 0d45a9

Getting spotted seems like a matter of when, not if, here, so we need to find a way to stop any alerts from spreading to the rest of the facility. (Circuit breakers maybe? Or find and kill anyone near where the alerts are sent out from.)

We may also need a distraction / going loud option, so I wonder if there's anyone in the titan floor, the area with the three large floors, or anyone of a similar size in the pens, that'd make a right mess of this place.

As for where to first, IDK. We don't know where the alerts / alarms might get sent from, killing the power will probably catch all of them, but that might set all hell loose. Could try to sneak around first, tell all the maybecats what's up, then kill the power / release people?
>>
No. 847888 ID: b96d5e
File 151159498547.png - (27.75KB , 550x550 , 93.png )
847888

You decide to go for the large kill floor, staying as close to the wall and out of sight of the control room as possible- from the look of it, they’ve only got windows facing straight out.

Everyone is visibly nervous, and even you feel a bit on edge as you keep your heads low and movements quiet. The kill floor has two active workers, and you try not to flinch as you watch a freshly stunned maybecat get hung up on a hook, restraints removed and throat cut with a frightening efficiency. They don’t even so much as look your way, completely invested in the slaughter.

“They’re taking their time today.” Chance whispers. “They used to get a lot more at once than this.”
“What happened?” You keep your voice equally low.
“They’re running out, I think...I don’t see many new small ones.”
“She’s killing whatever’s left.” Dwayne says, and your group slows as you make out the pens.
>>
No. 847890 ID: b96d5e
File 151159509263.png - (20.11KB , 550x550 , 94.png )
847890

There’s a whole bunch of maybecats in there, more than you can count from this far away. None of them are moving much, but you’re pretty sure they’re still alive.
>>
No. 847904 ID: 094652

My question is, why do they need so much experiment meat? Can't they just mass-order pink slime from various produce industries? Maybe they need the hormones from dead subjects...

First priority, save the maybecats! Every maybecat saved is a maybecat between you and your jailers! And their bullets. Myes.
>>
No. 848038 ID: 91ee5f

>>847890
Time to sneak over and see if there's a way to open those cages.
>>
No. 848119 ID: 512d84

>>847890
Is it possible just to waltz on through and pretend your guards on guard bissness?
I don't want to leave any of those maybecats to their (horrible) fait, but:
A) a breakout of that size would have every guard in the facility descend on our position
and
B) there is a high probability that a good chunk of them will attack us and our newfound allies. No offense, Suplex, but you maybecats don't seem to have the best track record.
>>
No. 848704 ID: 8a251a
File 151200900058.png - (25.61KB , 550x550 , 95.png )
848704

You sneak over and look into the cages. There’s a latch on the outside that looks pretty easy to open- stupidly easy, honestly. You give it a quick test and sure enough, it opens right up. You quickly put the gate back in place, not sure if freeing your siblings is a good idea until you size up the situation.

They’re a lot bigger than you, and there’s more than you can make out from where you’re standing. A few of them look curiously at you, but there’s something wrong about their eyes, the way they’re all sitting silently, not even fighting their restraints.

“They’re drugged to hell.” Dwayne whispers. “Some of them barely look conscious.”

“Great, how are we gonna get them out of here if they can barely think?” You growl, trying to get more of them to turn around. “They’re practically dead already.”

No, just sleepy.

You nearly jump out of your skin, fur on end. One of the maybecats is looking directly at you, head tilted. She’s got no fur and something’s definitely up with her face- heavily restrained on top of that. You have the horrible feeling that somehow, this is her voice in your head, and the thought that it was even possible fills you with dread.

I can wake them up, but I don’t know who you are. Are you going to save us?
>>
No. 848710 ID: 15a025

Try and see if you can communicate back to it telepathically. Tell it yes, and ask if there's a way you can wake them up a bit?
>>
No. 848711 ID: 173012

>'Yeah, we're gonna save anyone we can'
>'we need to stop the workers from setting off alarms or shit'
>have everyone ready to get the drop on the workers. There's only two at this killfloor, meaning we can get this over with fast

used 's because those are thoughts, rather than verbal communication if this is telepathy. Could be very good for the team.
>>
No. 848712 ID: 8cb228

"First of all, your telepathy is freaky as hell. And, my only promise is to help us put our fates in our own hands. We're going up against overwhelming opposition, and survival or safety isn't guaranteed or even likely. The only thing I think is likely at this point is the slimmest chance to get away from, or get vengeance on, those who keep murdering us. And I'll only free you all if I have a believable assurance that you all won't immediately attack me."
>>
No. 848723 ID: 3ce125

>>848704
Freaky yes, but... useful if she can read minds and not just speak to them. Or... control minds? It sounds like she can at least influence minds somewhat.

Tell her you were planning to stage a break-out but if your group gets too much bigger it'll be hard to sneak around and get things done. You were planning on getting them to hide so that you can clear a path up until you can't get past the guards, then give them the signal to move out in force. If they can fight their way to you, then they can escape with you. If not, then you'll be able to escape since the guards will be out of the way. It's their best chance, and yours.
>>
No. 848771 ID: 094652

"No. I am going to free you.

Free as many subjects as you can, every meatshield counts when the bullet hail inevitably comes snowing in. Can you take out the guards without sounding an alarm?"
>>
No. 848787 ID: 91ee5f

>>848704
Tell her that you're gonna save as many as possible, but you can't guarantee that all of them will live. There's a good chance that some of them are gonna die.
>>
No. 848907 ID: 8a251a
File 151208092861.png - (24.52KB , 550x550 , 96.png )
848907

Are you doing this? With your mind?

Yes.

That’s freaky as hell, how do you do that?

They changed me differently from the others. I can speak like this, I know things, things I shouldn’t. I can tell you more, but I need to know- will you save us?

We can’t promise anything, but that’s the plan...kind of. We want to bust outta here and get as many siblings out as we can, but if we add too many more people to our group we’re gonna have a rough time sneaking around the place.

A smart decision. There’s strength in numbers, but not stealth.

Right. Shitty to put it like this, but every person we free’s a meat shield between us, bullets, and whatever else they throw at us. We’re taking our fates into our own hands for once, and the slimmest chance at freedom or vengeance is worth it. Lots of people are gonna die, and some of them are gonna be us-

As you said, our alternative is to sit here and die at their hands, instead of our own. I am with your cause, as long as you have a plan.

The plan is to get you out of here, have y’all hide, and we’ll make a path to the exit. We’ll give you some kind of signal-

I can help with that.

Great. If you can fight your way through the path, you’ll get a shot at getting out of here. If you don’t, we’ll get out while the guards handle your mess. It’s all we can offer, but it’s something.

Your plan is as sound as an operation to get out of this nightmare can be, and I doubt anyone here will object to a second chance at life. My question is, what can I do to help? I can wake up our siblings present here and break our restraints with ease, but we can’t rush into this blindly.

>>
No. 848914 ID: 3ce125

>>848907
Hmm... if she can monitor guard patrols she could give us a better idea of how to sneak around.
>>
No. 848936 ID: 600f38

>>848907
"Can you tell if somebody is lying?
What you could do is have everybody in this entire area join or die, then go dark - no communication, people enter but don't leave. The guards are driven by fear. If you can detect lies then you can get some of the guards to join up, then you have some options.
You could send any guards and workers you can trust into nearby areas to cut them off, then swarm in and suppress the areas. Take over the plant zone by zone and start cutting off routes of access. The longer you can go without anybody noticing the less forces they'll be able to muster to fight back, and when we give the signal you'd be able to steamroll your way to the exit in a tsunami of flesh.
Or you can break the cages and restraints, take this section, and then have everybody act like nothing is wrong. Fewer people, but low chance of detection.

Or you could combine the two. Take sections, demand allegiance, and have everybody act like nothing is going wrong.

It's up to you, really."
>>
No. 849045 ID: 6d8f79

Keep the siblings up to speed, keep them calm.

When you're not busy you can help us know when guards or anyone is looking, and when they're not.

The big goal for now is to take out the ones operating this station without them so much as alerting their higher ups. Don't give a damn how we handle them, but it has to be quick and silent.
>>
No. 849096 ID: 8a251a
File 151216072629.png - (17.32KB , 550x550 , 97.png )
849096

Can you monitor guard patrols?

I think so. As long as you keep yourself receptive to me, I should be able to keep in touch within a short distance.

Can you tell if someone is lying?

Sometimes, but not always. I’ve kept this skill hidden from most, so I doubt anyone will try to block me out unless I get sloppy. There are some I need to watch out for, but I know how to keep myself safe. What would you like me to do aside from that?

You could have everybody in the area choose to join or die, keep people from leaving, lock down the area. Once shit’s yours you can block it off and keep moving, taking this place back bit by bit. By the time anybody can get to you, you’ll have numbers and a wall of flesh on your side.

I like it. I have never gotten the chance to lead people, but I think I’ll be good at it. I do love our siblings, but you know how it is here. If I need to kill, I will.

Yeah, but keep our siblings as safe and calm as you can. Lots of us are going to eat shit, but we want to avoid it if we can.

Of course.

As long as you can take out the big guys silently, we don’t care how you do it.

Excellent.

>>
No. 849098 ID: 8a251a
File 151216076321.png - (111.70KB , 1036x1000 , 98.png )
849098

She snaps her restraints as if they were nothing, your party jumping away from the pen. You think you hear Dwayne try not to scream.

I have never been so hungry.
>>
No. 849099 ID: 3ce125

>>849098
WOW.
Well, good luck sister. Give us a few minutes to get clear before the fighting starts.


Unlock the cage then get moving.
>>
No. 849102 ID: 4ceb21

>>849098
Oh hell yes.

Wrap things up and get moving. Check your group members' emotional states, they're probably fine for now, but we should keep an eye out to avoid any inopportune panic attacks down the line.
>>
No. 849103 ID: 600f38

>>849098
"Lotta corpses around here already. Eat up first so it won't distract you."
>>
No. 849122 ID: b4f880

>>849098
Well hello beautiful!
Now we're cooking, what do we call you? I'm Suplex by the way.
>>
No. 849139 ID: 0d45a9

Sweeeeet. Well, let's let our new friend out, hopefully she recognises that Change, Dwayne, and Nelson are our friends.

What's her name?
>>
No. 849158 ID: 0f434d

Give her a salute (Or whatever hand motion you want) and wish her luck.
>>
No. 849372 ID: 8a251a
File 151225825251.png - (31.55KB , 550x550 , 99.png )
849372

You unlock the cage and your party starts freaking out, a bunch of the other maybecats inside perking up at the noise. You shoot your team a glare and let your sister walk out. “She’s with us, show some respect.”
>>
No. 849376 ID: 8a251a
File 151225845450.png - (31.46KB , 700x700 , 100.png )
849376

Nelson is the first to step forward, giving her a wave. “It’s uh...nice to meet you.” His look of shock immediately after tells you he just found out about her special talent, but he rolls with it as best he can. “Right. She’s got mind powers. At this point, I shouldn’t be surprised, but...whoof.”

“Mind powers? The hell are you-” Dwayne almost raises his voice before it’s his turn to be introduced, swallowing his words. “Alright, cool. Sure. Mind powers.”

Chance watches carefully, forcing a smile out as the maybecat turns to him. His expression turns sincere as she talks to him, and he even reaches out to give her a pat. “Thank you for your help.”

Everyone seems pretty okay with this, even Dwayne. Their initial fear’s gone and replaced with what you guess is awe.
>>
No. 849377 ID: 8a251a
File 151225849118.png - (21.30KB , 550x550 , 101.png )
849377

We may meet with you again, maybe not. I will keep in touch -please, talk to me when you can. I can help you, and...it’s been a very lonely life. I could use the company during what might be my last day.

Sure thing. Can you give us a few minutes to get out of here before hell breaks loose?


Your sister nods and turns back to the pens, poking at the other maybecats with her tendril arms.

There are fifteen of us here, by my count. Sixteen until earlier, so I have to move fast. Waking them up is easy-

A maybecat jolts in her arms, looking around wildly.

Keeping them calm while I break their restraints is another story.

She turns to the now wide awake maybecat, too scared to speak. He visibly calms with a few gentle head pats and what you hope is mental encouragement, and not some kind of fucked up mind control.

Good luck sis. I’m Suplex...you got a name?

I was never given one. I always wanted a name, but I don’t know what would suit me.


Well, shit. Looks like you’re handing out names today.
>>
No. 849379 ID: 7759c3

vivi! as in vivisection
>>
No. 849381 ID: 600f38

>>849379
Vivi works.
>>
No. 849385 ID: 19dd52

How bout Zipper?
>>
No. 849413 ID: 15a025

Primus

How about Snoozer?
>>
No. 849416 ID: 91ee5f

Vivi sounds good.
>>
No. 849446 ID: de6d84

Supporting Vivi, looks definitely like one
>>
No. 849450 ID: 2a13fa

I'll go with Vivi over here too. even though primus is perfect
>>
No. 849598 ID: 8a251a
File 151234183279.png - (31.35KB , 550x550 , 102.png )
849598

“You’re Vivi now.” You say it aloud so your party can hear it. “That sound good?”

I like it. Vivi.

More maybecats stir and start whispering for Vivi to let them out, others keeping their eyes on you. It’s the first time you’ve ever felt...you can’t pin it down.

They’re grateful...me too.

You jump, and she looks a little guilty for the mental intrusion.

I was ready to die today, but you gave me a chance. Thank you.
>>
No. 849601 ID: 4ceb21

>>849598
>It’s the first time you’ve ever felt...you can’t pin it down.
Fulfillment from helping others? Social discomfort? Guilt? Hope? Is it a good feeling?

I believe the correct thing to say here is something like: "You're welcome. Let's try to make that chance a success."
>>
No. 849603 ID: b4f880

>>849598
Well shit, let's make this count then!
Sort out the complicated new feelings when you're safely out of there.
>>
No. 849615 ID: 3ce125

>>849598
What's going on back there with the "!!"?
>>
No. 849710 ID: 173012

>>849601

>agreed, it wasn't that long ago we felt the same thing, regarding "having a chance at freedom"
>>
No. 849770 ID: 54d2f9

Please tell me we can take a moment to talk to the watery-eyed cat. Their adorableness is killing me.
>>
No. 849833 ID: 8a251a
File 151243384498.png - (35.44KB , 800x550 , 103.png )
849833

You’ll get all these feelings handled when you’re out of the corpse factory.

You’re welcome. Hasn’t been long since I felt the same way. Let’s make it count.

You focus on two of the other siblings behind Vivi.

One of them has the biggest eyes you’ve ever seen, and you realize two things: she isn’t blinking, and she wasn’t crying so much as melting. She smiles warmly at you as Vivi breaks her shackles, stretching out and sighing in relief.

The other is restrained even more than Vivi was, leaning on the bigger maybecat’s tail just to stay upright.

What’s up with that one?

I’m not sure I want to remove their restraints. I’ve never seen a sibling so heavily bound. They seem cooperative, but…

>>
No. 849836 ID: d887c0

>>849833
"Hey, you in all the hardware. We let you out, you gonna play nice?"
>>
No. 849837 ID: 3ce125

Okay, let's be careful. Break him out of the restraints when the fighting starts.
>>
No. 849838 ID: 116b05

Release them last. Take them with us and if we need them just let them off their leash, so to speak.

Preferably in the direction of guards.
>>
No. 849839 ID: 4ceb21

Up to you, really. Why don't you try to figure out why they're restrained with your telepathy?
>>
No. 849845 ID: 600f38

>>849833
"Can you ask them why they're tied up like that?"
>>
No. 849980 ID: 8a251a
File 151251051581.png - (23.01KB , 550x550 , 104.png )
849980

Can you ask ‘em why they’re chained up like that?

I can try.


The maybecat grows excited upon her approach, nearly thrashing. She takes her time before turning back to you.

They said that the guards didn’t like them and that they bit off a few hands being taken in. I don’t sense much malice in this one, or dishonesty.
>>
No. 849981 ID: 3ce125

Excitable can be dangerous though. Ask if they can control themselves and avoid biting the other maybecats.
>>
No. 849986 ID: 0d45a9

If we can calm them down, sure. I'm afraid they'll make a bit of noise cause of their excitement if we don't get them to chill first.

Even so, be ready to put your hand over their mouth (Be wary of biting), just in case they try to shout (I don't think they would, but gut feeling says that it's a possibility).
>>
No. 850019 ID: 00db72

Hey they're like you! after all that's how you got your name. Is it a he or a she?
>>
No. 850022 ID: 3ce125

Oh also they need to be relatively quiet, it kindof looks like they won't be if we let them out...
>>
No. 850023 ID: 91ee5f

If they can be quiet, then let them out. If they can't be quiet, then wait until we don't need to be quiet anymore.
>>
No. 850084 ID: af982d

Definitely not someone we want to add to the core party. Even if they don't mean to harm us, they will probably prove a liability to stealth.
>>
No. 850137 ID: 8a251a
File 151260510635.png - (23.82KB , 550x550 , 105.png )
850137

“Can you control yourself round out siblings? I really don’t need anybody getting bit.”

They nod feverishly, and you gesture for Vivi to take their cuffs off. You stop her before the mouth restraint.

“And are you gonna stay quiet?”

More nodding. Vivi continues, and the maybecat is freed.
>>
No. 850138 ID: 8a251a
File 151260513258.png - (26.11KB , 550x550 , 106.png )
850138

“Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyouohhhmygodiwassoscared-”
>>
No. 850139 ID: 8a251a
File 151260515092.png - (20.31KB , 550x550 , 107.png )
850139

>>
No. 850141 ID: 3583d1

Shhhhhhh....

Alright Jabbers, glad to have you on board. But lets keep it on the down-low for right now okay?
>>
No. 850142 ID: 4ceb21

"Welp, I'll leave you to it." Not our problem. I don't think there's anything left to do here, and we are on a bit of a time limit, so let's get going.
>>
No. 850226 ID: c8da98

Welp, are we going to make our escape now or are we going to do this again in another slaughter area. Or are we leaving that job to these guys?
>>
No. 850233 ID: 13fded

>>850141
I would prefer Hyper. Got a feeling words aren't the only actions she will manifest as an uninterrupted anxious sequences.
Pretty cute though.
>>
No. 850280 ID: 094652

Caffina?
>>
No. 850297 ID: 35089a

the hype cat has no breaks
>>
No. 850456 ID: 8a251a
File 151277989571.png - (20.68KB , 550x550 , 108.png )
850456

“Okay Jabbers, glad to have you on board. Keep it chill and don’t cause a scene. Vivi, you got everything handled here?”

I think so. Do you want to handle the other pens, or should I?
>>
No. 850459 ID: 4ceb21

>>850456
It'll be faster if we get to work finding that exit while you work on the pens. You're better equipped for crowd control than we are anyway.
>>
No. 850463 ID: 91ee5f

>>850459
This.
>>
No. 850658 ID: 15a025

>>850459
Yeah, have Vivi start working on the other pens. You and the others should go around and see what else is going on here and look for the exit.
>>
No. 851309 ID: e6994f

>>850658
This, explore around while Vivi handles the pens.
>>
No. 852508 ID: de6d84

Let Vivi handle the other pens.
>>
No. 852586 ID: ba56e6

>>850459
This.
>>
No. 858448 ID: fb45d4
File 151598324618.png - (17.72KB , 550x550 , 109.png )
858448

“Yeah, you got this. We’re gonna get moving.”

Understood. As long as you’re not too far away, I can keep in touch.

How uh...how far’s this go?

I’m not sure. Far enough, if we move fast enough behind you.

You gonna be reading my thoughts or some shit?

I’ll just keep an ear out for you, call for me and I should be able to respond.

Sounds good.

You go to turn back to your team and she gives you a pat on the back, nearly startling you out of your skin. When you realize you’re not going to die, you give her tentacle a pat back, not sure how to feel about it- but it isn’t bad. Maybe having a sister you could trust would be a refreshing change of pace.
>>
No. 858449 ID: fb45d4
File 151598328262.png - (15.94KB , 550x550 , 110.png )
858449

“Alright Chance, what’s the game plan.”

“Exit’s over on the other side of Intake. We still have to get by the control room to get over there- it’s a straight shot from here, unless we take any detours. Vivi’s going to handle the pens, but I doubt that she’s going to be able to take on the titan floor. There’s not much chance there’ll be anything there to begin with, and we’re not equipped to get anything of that size out….I don’t think it’d be worth it, but it’s an option.”
>>
No. 858452 ID: 91ee5f

>>858449
Nah, we've taken long enough, it's time to get moving!
>>
No. 858457 ID: 92cd99

>>858449
As cool as that sounds, it's probably best not to. No point risking the plan for potentially no reward, or worse, creating additional danger.
>>
No. 858466 ID: 7ed2dd

>>858452
This, time is against us and speed is our best hope
>>
No. 858473 ID: 3ce125

>>858449
Sounds like too much risk for too little reward. Let's avoid the titan pens.
>>
No. 863080 ID: fb45d4
File 151726873601.png - (21.01KB , 550x550 , 111.png )
863080

“Enough screwing around, we gotta move. Time’s against us, and as cool as those titan pens sound, we can’t waste time on shit with high risk and little reward.”

Dwayne clears his throat. “I completely agree that we gotta get out of here as soon as possible, but what are we gonna do about that control room? There’s probably a lot of guys in there and a lot of ways to set off alarms. We can make a run for it, but…”

“There’s pretty much no cover from here to the other end of the facility, even if it is a...relatively, straight shot up until the other pens.” Chance shuffles, peeking around the kill floor’s back wall and pointing towards the other side of the room. He squints for a moment before fumbling for something in his pocket, grabbing a pen and a scrap of paper.
>>
No. 863081 ID: fb45d4
File 151726875249.png - (17.21KB , 550x550 , 112.png )
863081

“We need to go straight ahead, past the control room, and past the medium pens...from there, we can hook around the small pens, pass the other large pen, and we’re out. All of these kill floors still have workers, and that control room sees everything. Dwayne is right in that we can probably just...run? But I don’t know how far we’d get, and there’s no way we’ll get out of here undetected.”
>>
No. 863083 ID: 8031fe

Objective
- we can either attempt to evade detection
- or we can take out the control room covertly
If we take out the control room we can take out the large killfloor next to the small ones, work on both the medium and small kill floors, and if everything goes perfectly we could take over all of processing.

Our goal is to reduce risks we take to get to an even amount, and to constantly increase our odds of survival.
>Vivi, I want to arrange an ambush. Is there a way to incapacitate the control room long enough for us to take them out in a fell swoop?
If we can manage that we can assure an easy escape from processing. Depending on how quickly they shift personnel, we could clear out the control room, some other killfloors, and get out with minimal losses or risks.
If we don't try to save every killfloor we'll likely have a less noticeable riot, and might even remain undetected for a bit.

It's near impossible to clear out the entirety of processing before we run into serious problems, but if we do this right enough we can get out of processing with a sizable force, and remain just under the radar.
We don't have time to hesitate, so
>Dwayne, Chance, who among us is most likely to be able to cause a distraction for the control room? I'm thinking that if we can draw their attention with someone trustworthy not only will the psychic stun be more easy (I assume), and with the back part of the group hanging just out of sight we'll be able to take down anyone before they can set off an alarm.
>And those that don't resist are welcome to try and join
That sound like a plan?
>>
No. 863470 ID: 91ee5f

So what’s the plan?
>>
No. 863479 ID: 3ce125

Can we just hug the wall clockwise around the facility, past the large pens then the back of the worker facility and then around the titan den?
>>
No. 865274 ID: fb45d4
File 151796549860.png - (15.20KB , 550x550 , 113.png )
865274

You think for a few minutes, pacing. “Way I see it, we can take out the control room, but even that might bring too much attention. Doing that’d get us a much easier escape, but...with Vivi handling the other pens, I don’t think she can take out the guards from here, even with those cool mind powers.”

Correct. You jump a foot, Vivi’s voice intruding on your brain, albeit politely. I would be able to do it at close range, but not from here, and not without catching attention. When I pass by to get to the other pens, I’ll do what I can, but you’re better off not waiting on that. If you’ve come all the way from the cell blocks, people are going to notice soon. You can’t waste much time.

You swallow and relay this information, continuing your pacing.

“Right, so that’s out...what if we just...go around?”

“Go around?” Nelson’s ears perk up a bit.

“Yeah, we go around the back.” You take the map from Chance and point. “We take the long way around, but we hurry. There’s plenty of cover and we’d be able to run through without having to stealth it out as much.”

“Could work.” Dwayne thinks about it. “Yeah, could work. You’re right in that we’ll have to book it to make it worth it, but it’s safer than cutting directly across the floor, especially if Vivi takes out the control room on her own way out.”

“I’m for it.” Chance nods, reaching out for his map. You pass it back and he pockets it, making sure it’s safe. “There’s no way people will be able to see us behind the worker’s facilities, but we will have to watch out for workers around the pens.”

“We doing this?” Nelson puts a hand on your shoulder, gentle enough that it doesn’t startle you this time.

You’re not gonna lie, you’re nervous as hell. This is a scary fucking situation, but you’ve been in scary fucking situations your entire life, and you’d rather go out trying than spend the rest of your life at the mercy of this nightmare factory. You glance at your party and the realization that other people are counting on you too, bringing with it an uncomfortable feeling that you can’t quite place. It was like Nelson said, people give a shit about you. And maybe, just maybe, you were starting to give a shit about other people.

Are you ready to run?
>>
No. 865280 ID: 13fded

Run like the wind.
>>
No. 865285 ID: 082b86

Make sure to have proper spacing! Don't all clump together! You don't want the lot of you crashing into each other if something goes down. Now leg it!
>>
No. 865325 ID: 2c2f98

>>865274
Gotta go Fast
>>
No. 865347 ID: d887c0

>>865274
Ready and willing.
Check your corners, watch your six, and may the gods be with you.
>>
No. 865385 ID: fb45d4
File 151797619757.png - (16.45KB , 550x550 , 114.png )
865385

“Make sure to space out.” You stretch, exhaling hard. “We can’t afford to crash into each other if shit gets rough.”

Everyone gets ready to move, waiting for your signal. You’re trying to ignore the sweat rolling down your forehead, and pray no one notices. The last thing you need right now is anyone asking questions and slowing you down.
>>
No. 865386 ID: fb45d4
File 151797621692.png - (22.92KB , 550x550 , 115.png )
865386

You haven’t run in a long time.
>>
No. 865387 ID: fb45d4
File 151797625123.png - (31.09KB , 550x550 , 116.png )
865387

You’re stumbling, slipping on tile, heart pounding in your chest. Your breath’s wheezy and hitched, no time to wipe tears away.

She’s coming.

>>
No. 865388 ID: b1b4f3

>>865387
Not a good time for a flashback! Focus! Remember where you are!
>>
No. 865389 ID: d887c0

F O C U S
Get your feet under you and keep moving no matter what. You just got put on a damn thin time limit.
>>
No. 865394 ID: 91ee5f

>>865385
>You’re trying to ignore the sweat rolling down your forehead, and pray no one notices. The last thing you need right now is anyone asking questions and slowing you down.
What are you afraid everyone is going to notice that you’re out of shape?

>>865387
Oh, never mind!

Stay focused! She’s not here!
>>
No. 865398 ID: b1b4f3

...can you run on all fours for better stability?
>>
No. 865417 ID: 8031fe

>Breath calmly, hyperventilating or fucking up your breathing will only slow you down
>>
No. 865468 ID: 0d45a9

>>865394
Maybe they know running is something that causes bad memories to surface, e.g. what's happening right now?

>>865387
Focus, just keep moving. If you're having trouble keeping your breathing measured, count: In, 1, 2, Out, 1, 2, In, etc. Time it to your steps.
>>
No. 865621 ID: fb45d4
File 151804948966.png - (53.72KB , 550x550 , 117.png )
865621

“Where’d you go, kitty kitty?” Her voice echoes loudly behind you, gleeful. “Don’t tell me you’re still trying to run!”

You hear her slam into the corridor you ran through, and you see the smoke billowing your way in the corners of your eyes. You have to keep moving, faster now. If you could make it to the final door, you’d be safe. You shake your tears away and try to keep your breath steady. In, one, two, out, one two….
>>
No. 865623 ID: fb45d4
File 151804953275.png - (52.06KB , 550x550 , 118.png )
865623

You’re barely able to think of anything but running, but something in the back of your head screams. You have to focus, you have to wake up, this isn’t real- you’re not supposed to be here, you’re supposed to be in Intake, with Nelson, and Chance, and-

All there is is this maze of hallways, and her horrible, cackling laughter. Wherever you were before, whoever was with you, they’re just out of reach. Close enough to know it’s not right, but not enough to remember.

Please. You need something, anything, to bring you out of this and away from her.

You need something to hold onto.
>>
No. 865632 ID: 35055d

>>865623
Is Suplex having a panic attack?

Loosen your coat and take deeper breaths.
>>
No. 865634 ID: b0f04f

>>865623
Did Nelso ever cuddle with you? There’s something to hold on to, think of that. That feeling of safety, even though it didn’t last for long, it did provide a modicum of happiness.
>>
No. 865635 ID: d887c0

>>865623
>You need something to hold onto.
Nelson.
Nelson's dick.
Freedom on the outside.
A world away from here and her.
The other maybecats and all the things you'd like to do and say.
Food and water that didn't pass through the nightmare bowels of this damn place.
>>
No. 865643 ID: 082b86

It's different this time, isn't it? You're not running blind. You've assembled a team of.. associates? friends? ones you love? perhaps just a band of merry bastards. You're not in a maze. You're not trapped. You're leaving. What more, your companions are leaving with you and this is all because of your efforts. You're not lost; you're leading the way. You're a damn hero!
>>
No. 865669 ID: 2a13fa

>>865623
Focus on your surroundings and your goal. Ground yourself in what is real and what matters.
>>
No. 865678 ID: af6e04

>You need something to hold onto.
You are named Suplex. You kill things by suplexing them. You are awesome.
>>
No. 865702 ID: 173012

>You survived her then, you got pas that day and lived all the way to today
>And you're sure as hell going to march the fuck out of here, and even if you have to stare her down yourself, you'll make it
>>
No. 865715 ID: 56de11

Chances eventual mustache?
or the fact that you have sisters?
>>
No. 866034 ID: fb45d4
File 151815667282.png - (24.32KB , 550x550 , 119.png )
866034

You try to focus on what’s real and ground yourself. Your name is Suplex, and you’re a maybecat, but you’re not alone anymore.
>>
No. 866035 ID: fb45d4
File 151815669057.png - (36.24KB , 550x550 , 120.png )
866035

You can escape this nightmare, no, not just you. You have people counting on you, siblings, allies.
>>
No. 866036 ID: fb45d4
File 151815673159.png - (63.71KB , 550x550 , 121.png )
866036

You have a chance at a future. Your tears stop, and any fear is replaced with raw determination. You can get out of this.
>>
No. 866037 ID: fb45d4
File 151815675613.png - (36.48KB , 550x550 , 122.png )
866037

The final door is ahead of you, and maybe, just maybe, it’ll all be over when you go through it. You think about seeing Nelson again, and hope swells in your chest.

You slam into the door, begging, please, no more, let this be enough-
>>
No. 866038 ID: fb45d4
File 151815679436.png - (3.34KB , 550x550 , 123.png )
866038

But it doesn’t end.
>>
No. 866039 ID: fb45d4
File 151815682467.png - (31.68KB , 550x550 , 124.png )
866039

You’re still a kid, and you can still feel the smoke in your lungs, and a newly sprained foot from your tumble inside. You know this isn’t real now, but it was once, and it isn’t going to let you go until it’s good and ready to. You squeeze your eyes shut and only open them when you hear an approaching click, click, click on tile.
>>
No. 866040 ID: fb45d4
File 151815685042.png - (110.89KB , 800x800 , 125.png )
866040

You may have escaped her monster, but your mother is still here.
>>
No. 866041 ID: b1b4f3

>>866040
Oh! Can you call out to Vivi? Maybe she can help you wake up.
>>
No. 866042 ID: d887c0

Only her memory.
Ony her shadow.
You have a chance to finally be rid of her.
Push her away. Make this memory a dream and let it pass into the long night.
She doesn't own you. She has never owned you. She's hurt you, caged you, starved you, but she has never broken you, and that is why you will win.
>>
No. 866135 ID: f18e26

>>866040
Ignore her, she aint real
>>
No. 866303 ID: 2a13fa

>>866135
she might not be real, but something tells me this isn't just going to just go away.
>>
No. 866326 ID: fb45d4
File 151826234621.png - (35.73KB , 550x550 , 126.png )
866326

Vivi, if you can hear me, I need your help- I need it now
There’s no response, but you keep listening and reaching out, ready to mentally scream if you need to.

The Director kneels in front of you, the interns behind her avoiding eye contact.

“You made it to the finish line.”
>>
No. 866327 ID: fb45d4
File 151826238628.png - (32.42KB , 550x550 , 127.png )
866327

Her hand cups your face and yanks it upwards, not letting you turn away. Your mother’s voice has no pride in it, only malice.

“But do you know why I’m upset, instead of proud?”

You don’t say a word. She’s not real. She’s not here, this is just a memory. If you ignore her she’ll just go away-
>>
No. 866329 ID: fb45d4
File 151826243859.png - (40.11KB , 550x550 , 128.png )
866329

“Answer me when I talk to you.” Her voice distorts slightly and your blood runs cold. “Do you know why I’m upset, 122?”
>>
No. 866330 ID: 8031fe

>You'd rather watch me bleed out than see me draw another breath
>>
No. 866331 ID: 689e8d

>>866036
Is that fucking Spit!?


>>866329
Cause I'm not one of your "special" children?
>>
No. 866336 ID: be0b68

>>866329
nope, never will
>>
No. 866342 ID: 701b87

>>866329
Throw a curveball.
"Because I am you."
>>
No. 866351 ID: ba8710

>>866331
Shit, she could be her twin.
>>
No. 866352 ID: 4ceb21

Continue to not say anything, she won't be happy with any answer you give. She isn't real, but the people you're with are. You're their leader, they need you to put up a strong front. The less you interact with this worthless phantom, the easier it will be to play this moment off.
>>
No. 866353 ID: 91ee5f

Don’t attack her! Even though she isn’t real, that could actually be Nelson or someone else that’s trying to see what’s wrong with you!
>>
No. 866369 ID: b1b4f3

>>866329
Because she wanted you to fail.
>>
No. 866375 ID: d887c0

>>866329
"Cuz you got that ugly ass face."
>>
No. 866384 ID: 600f38

>>866329
"Because I couldn't kill you and leave this miserable place."
>>
No. 866409 ID: b27006

Don’t acknowledge her at all just to spite her.
>>
No. 866435 ID: 2a13fa

"because you got a wicked case of bad breath?"
>>
No. 866468 ID: 0d45a9

"Because I'm not perfect."

I don't know what's the best option here, but assuming this lines up with stuff that's actually happening we're gonna want this flashback to end as soon as we can so we're seeing reality again. I'm hoping playing along with the flashback will do that, but I have no clue.
>>
No. 866479 ID: 15a025

Continue silence and try to keep ignoring it.
>>
No. 866512 ID: 3036fe

>>866468
no we want this to be as tramatic as possible, to redeem the characters perspective and actions
this trama must be relived to be purged.
I second
>>866384
this post
>>
No. 866564 ID: 082b86

"Because I'm a reflection of your own shitty failures, you cunt."

Or yeah, remain silent. (Maybe giver her the finger.)
>>
No. 866730 ID: fb45d4
File 151840383506.png - (46.55KB , 550x550 , 129.png )
866730

You stay silent and she hits you hard across the face, dropping your head from her grip before standing and slamming it into the tile with her heel.

“I said speak.”
>>
No. 866731 ID: fb45d4
File 151840386510.png - (44.83KB , 550x550 , 130.png )
866731

“I’m not perfect,” You choke out, unable to keep angry tears from flowing. “I’m not perfect, and you’d rather watch me bleed out than take one more breath. That good enough?”

“Correct. But, do you know what’s worse, 122?”

She lifts her heel off your head and drives it hard into your calf, and you hear something snap. Her voice distorts further with every word, becoming something unholy.
>>
No. 866733 ID: fb45d4
File 151840389177.png - (62.72KB , 550x550 , 131.png )
866733

”You are lazy. Lazy, selfish, and unworthy of even my evaluation here today. You back talk and have the nerve to underperform on tests even when I have done so much for you. I give you the chance to succeed despite your inherent imperfections and you disappoint me, every time.”

She digs her foot into the break and you scream. Any attempt to plea with the interns, or your mother, is ignored.

Do you have anything to say for yourself?
>>
No. 866734 ID: 4ceb21

There's no right answer here. Her hatred for you is completely irrational, so there's nothing to say.

That pain isn't real, or at least we better hope it isn't. This isn't what's happening right now. You should still be running, have you tripped? Focus on your proprioception, are you actually on the ground? Try standing up. How's your foot?
>>
No. 866735 ID: 7962a4

>>866733
"Go fuck yourself, you old cow!"
>>
No. 866737 ID: b1b4f3

>>866733
"No."
>>
No. 866738 ID: 785862

“You always said actions speak louder than words, so-“

Supplex this bitch.
>>
No. 866739 ID: cb585b

Put on the smuggest face you can and reply with "Checkmate."
>>
No. 866742 ID: 91ee5f

>>866738
No, because this is all an illusion and we might end up suplexing one of our teammates!
>>
No. 866764 ID: 600f38

>>866733
"You're just pissed you're too much of a coward to kill yourself, and are an abject failure at creating something that can do it for you. You've got a city sized plant devoted just to disposing of the evidence of your own incompetence, and the backlog says they can't even keep up.
You're taking it out on your kids because you're also a terrible parent, and figure since you're gonna die unloved then you might as well be hated and feared, since more than anything you're afraid of being forgotten."
>>
No. 866772 ID: 8f6b0e

>>866733
"Because I don't want to end up like you!"
Bam pow, right in the feelings if she had any!
>>
No. 866775 ID: 8031fe

>Every second I defy you like this is worth so much more than any second where I've made you happy, and someday you'll be the one bleeding our mother dearest
>>
No. 866776 ID: 3036fe

>>866772
THIS it will be a critical of she IS progecting right now
>>
No. 866841 ID: 555f33

"Lazy, selfish, unworthy... You still couldn't stop me."
>>
No. 866853 ID: 082b86

"I never asked to be made."

Go with a classic.
>>
No. 866946 ID: 7e9c89

hate to say this, but breakdown apologizing is pretty typical for this type of thing if we're going for realism. any sass might just get suplex hurt more;;
>>
No. 866950 ID: 3036fe

>>866946
not all lifetimes are worth living, sometimes it's better for the candle to burn past what it's capabal of, burn up to burn away.
I vote for
>>866772
>>
No. 866953 ID: 641dcb

"Get the fuck out of my head already!"
>>
No. 866969 ID: 0d45a9

I never asked for this, and whatever I do it's never enough for you. How I am supposed to reach your "standards" when they move further and further away?
>>
No. 867081 ID: 3f3499

>>866733
I am the single greatest thing you will ever make.
>>
No. 867716 ID: fb45d4
File 151869115387.png - (57.71KB , 550x550 , 132.png )
867716

“I never asked you to make me.” You spit at her feet. “No matter what I do, it’s never enough for you. And you know what?”

You grin, covered in tears and vision blurring. “At least I’ll never end up like you.”

She slams her heel into your leg again, and you just keep going, your voice cracking and sobs sneaking in.

“Go fuck yourself, mom. Your standards are bullshit-”

Another stomp, the pain almost overtaking you.

“And so are you!”
>>
No. 867717 ID: fb45d4
File 151869119026.png - (71.28KB , 550x550 , 133.png )
867717

She howls in rage and kicks you hard in the stomach, once, and then twice. You’re an absolute mess and can barely hear her voice, but it’s there. “Go to your room.
>>
No. 867718 ID: fb45d4
File 151869122178.png - (59.45KB , 550x550 , 134.png )
867718

Your mother turns and walks away as quickly as she came, the anger in her voice cutting like a knife. “I’m sure you can make it there on your own.”

The interns linger for a moment and run off with her, having taken notes on the entire affair. This was not the first time, and it wouldn’t be the last. But for now, you’re able to breathe.
>>
No. 867719 ID: fb45d4
File 151869125345.png - (49.15KB , 550x550 , 135.png )
867719

You are alone.

You lay there for what seems like forever, senses flickering in and out. Are you bleeding? There’s no way you aren’t after that… but your leg would be fine. She’d put you back together after a week, just to break you again. She’d do it until she was tired of you, and then you’d be just like the rest of your siblings. No more second chances- one strike and you’re out.

It hurts.

It hurts so much.
>>
No. 867720 ID: fb45d4
File 151869127322.png - (66.54KB , 550x550 , 136.png )
867720

And, then, it doesn’t.

There’s a sensation of something touching your back, barely detectable through the agony. You try to glance behind you and there’s nothing there, but it’s warm. Familiar.

Plush, even.
>>
No. 867723 ID: 499d93

Remember where you are and who you’re with. Your allies are here for you, remember them? Those guys who are risking there lives alongside you to escape? They’re still here so calm down, rationalise what’s going on, dry your tears and get back up.
>>
No. 867734 ID: ab9337

Observe warm, familiar touch.
>>
No. 867739 ID: 4854ef

>>866331
She's a Ruffneck, a species that was created by Spit which is why it seems very similar.


You need to come to, that touch is from the real world. You need to focus on that plushy warmth.
>>
No. 867745 ID: d64c16

>>867720
Nelson's trying to wake you up. Oblige.
>>
No. 867746 ID: 8031fe

>It's Nelson
>>
No. 867747 ID: 91ee5f

>>867720
>it’s warm. Familiar.
>Plush, even.
You mean like one of those softbodies? That’s means it’s gotta be Nelson! He’s here to help!
>>
No. 867779 ID: 318377

Hug Nelson
>>
No. 867796 ID: 810a1a

>>867720
Hug the plush.

Thank the plush for hug.
>>
No. 867803 ID: 56e50f

>>867779
Turn around. What do you see?
>>
No. 868300 ID: 15a025

Nelson's here to help pick us up!
>>
No. 869147 ID: fb45d4
File 151919571687.png - (117.98KB , 550x550 , 137.png )
869147

Nelson? Was Nelson there? You hold onto the feeling, and the world seems to distort around you, fading around the edges in ever sense- the hallway dissolves, and the feeling of tiles under your body is replaced with something living.
>>
No. 869148 ID: fb45d4
File 151919574795.png - (21.29KB , 550x550 , 138.png )
869148

Someone’s arms are wrapped tightly around you, soft and warm. You can hear panicked whispers, the exact words hard to make out at first.

“...Sup?! Sup, you gotta wake up, we have to keep moving-”
“Try shaking her a bit.”
“Dwayne! She fell and hit her head, we can’t just do that…”
“I’m not going to shake her, goddamnit! She’ll come to, just...Sup, you there?”
>>
No. 869149 ID: 8031fe

>Breathing, breathing and try to stand
>"fucking flashback, ok what just happened"
>>
No. 869150 ID: b1b4f3

>>869148
Whisper yes and get up and get moving!
>>
No. 869153 ID: 91ee5f

>>869148
Whisper to them, “Why are we whispering? And what the fuck happened? Why does my head feel like shit?”
>>
No. 869169 ID: 2a13fa

"I don't know what the fuck just happened, so just shut up and run"
>>
No. 869179 ID: 555f33

"Some fucking lucid flashback thing. How much time did we lose?"
>>
No. 869229 ID: e1c8f7

"How long was I out?"
>>
No. 869775 ID: fb45d4
File 151944697754.png - (28.57KB , 760x750 , 139.png )
869775

reformatting text to make updates easier to read!

You breathe in and out until your vision returns, Nelson breaking out into a weary smile as he sees you come to. You go to speak and he gives you a tighter squeeze than you even thought he was capable of, and it takes you wheezing and patting his back for him to realize he’s squishing you.

SUPLEX: I’m alright, lemme go. Gonna squeeze the life out of me…
NELSON: What happened?
>>
No. 869776 ID: fb45d4
File 151944703231.png - (15.94KB , 550x550 , 140.png )
869776

You’re not sure how to respond- it was just a dream. It wasn’t real, and they don’t need to know about shit that wasn’t real. Shit that’s all in your head wasn’t worth bringing up, not to them, and not to anyone.

You swallow, and bullshit.
>>
No. 869777 ID: fb45d4
File 151944707944.png - (17.13KB , 550x550 , 141.png )
869777

SUPLEX: I don’t know, all that matters is I woke up on the fucking ground. What did you see happen?
DWAYNE: You ate shit.
CHANCE: Dwayne!!!
DWAYNE: She did, though. We got as far as the titan pens, but you collapsed pretty soon after.
SUPLEX: That’d explain why my head feels like shit...How long was I out?
CHANCE: Hard to say, no clocks down here…
NELSON: At least ten minutes, probably more. I was worrie-
DWAYNE: Can we can save the sappy stuff for later? I was sweating bullets just as much as any of y’all, but we really have to get moving.
DWAYNE: We’re close to the exit and we can talk when we’re not in a slaughterhouse.

Nelson growls under his breath at Dwayne’s tone, inaudible to anyone else but you. You don’t think you’ve ever seen him do that, and you can’t tell whether it freaks you out or…something else. Now is not the fucking time to be thinking about this.
>>
No. 869778 ID: fb45d4
File 151944712901.png - (18.39KB , 550x550 , 142.png )
869778

Nelson helps you to your feet, and you linger to lean on him a bit.

NELSON: You ready to go?

He lowers his voice down even softer, just so you can hear.
NELSON: You don’t have to run, if it helps. We can just, speed walk, or something.
NELSON: And if it happens again, I’m here.
NELSON: Just...talk to me, Sup.
NELSON: Tell me what you need right now to be okay.
>>
No. 869791 ID: 10c408

"I need to get the fuck out of here."
>>
No. 869799 ID: 555f33

He cares. You care that he cares. But now's not the time. So what you need is to get moving, full speed. And for him to catch you if it happens again.
>>
No. 869801 ID: e1c8f7

"Don't stop. Don't let me stop. Don't.. worry about me so much."
>>
No. 869900 ID: 15a025

We need to be out of here to be okay. Tell Nelson you're ready to powerwalk outta here.
>>
No. 869902 ID: b1b4f3

How about a kiss for starters?
>>
No. 871140 ID: e54266

To get out of this place for starters. After that, anything is good.
>>
No. 871271 ID: fb45d4
File 152004938764.png - (15.58KB , 550x550 , 143.png )
871271

SUPLEX: Stop worrying about me so much, man. I’m still here.

You try to look more annoyed than you feel, but his concern doesn’t fade.

SUPLEX: I just want to get the fuck out, so don’t let me slow down. If it happens again, you can freak out over me then, alright?
NELSON: You sure?

You roll your eyes and try to manage a smile.

SUPLEX: Would a kiss convince you?
>>
No. 871272 ID: fb45d4
File 152004942123.png - (13.46KB , 550x550 , 144.png )
871272

He perks up a bit, but shakes his head.

NELSON: Maybe, but I’ll feel better about cashing that offer in when we’re safe.
SUPLEX: Let’s get out of here.

You start moving, Nelson supporting you as best he can with your weight and matching your walking speed. Chance and Dwayne have already gone ahead, Chance glancing back every so often to make sure you’re alright.
>>
No. 871273 ID: fb45d4
File 152004945880.png - (107.59KB , 800x800 , 145.png )
871273

The titan pens loom above menacingly, but thankfully, there isn’t much left to walk. You’re thankful that your party dragged you into cover, and that there’s only one worker running around- it could have been a very, very close call.

You’ve only seen a titan class once, but in the cell blocks they’re just known as “the big guys” on a good day, and “fuck this” on a bad one. Thankfully, you weren’t one of the maybecats- that’s still such a weird term to get used to- sent in to fight it, and you doubt anyone made it out alive.
>>
No. 871274 ID: fb45d4
File 152004949255.png - (16.20KB , 550x550 , 146.png )
871274

You wonder if this one had a name.
>>
No. 871275 ID: fb45d4
File 152004952986.png - (13.04KB , 550x550 , 147.png )
871275

As you turn the corner, the door’s in sight- and thanks to the titan pen’s massive size, it looks like you can make it with full cover-
>>
No. 871276 ID: fb45d4
File 152004955368.png - (17.04KB , 550x550 , 148.png )
871276

Of course.
>>
No. 871277 ID: d887c0

>>871276
Shit! What just happened?!
>>
No. 871278 ID: cb585b

>>871277
I believe they just realize Suplex escaped...
>>
No. 871281 ID: 763aed

run like hell
>>
No. 871288 ID: e1c8f7

>>871276
Let's get a move on, people!
>>
No. 871294 ID: 91ee5f

>>871276
Contact Vivi and ask if she knows what’s going on.

And it doesn’t matter if she does or if she doesn’t know what’s going on, tell her that now that the alarms are going off she doesn’t have to be quiet anymore and it’s time for her and the other large maybecats to start fighting their way out!

Make sure you wish her luck.

As for your group, don’t just stand there, get going!

>>871277
I think the guards might’ve noticed that Vivi and her group were freeing other maybecats over at the large maybecat pens.
>>
No. 871324 ID: 555f33

No real plans except to run for it, right? So run for it.
>>
No. 871325 ID: b1b4f3

The plan is to secure an escape route so that if Vivi makes it there she can outrun her pursuers. So get to the door, make sure it's open, and see if you can get it closed fast after Vivi gets through it. Or just leave it open and continue forwards.
>>
No. 871337 ID: 555f33

>>871325
Oh right, whoops. Keep to the plan.
>>
No. 871464 ID: 15a025

Try and get a hold of Vivi while you brace yourselves for running hell.
>>
No. 873689 ID: fb45d4
File 152107836085.png - (16.96KB , 550x550 , 149.png )
873689

You book it, slamming through the door and out into the hallway. For now at least, stealth is over.

Her voice booms over the loudspeaker,loud even over the sirens, harsh yet mildly amused. Even with just going through that...dream...you’re taken aback with hearing her voice, your skin crawling with every syllable.

ANYA: We appear to have some people trying to leave the facility, despite our care and attention. You are to use any force necessary to bring them back to me, as long as they’re still alive. I have guests over today, and time is of the essence.
>>
No. 873690 ID: fb45d4
File 152107838790.png - (23.74KB , 550x550 , 150.png )
873690

ANYA: Disrespectful children deserve severe punishment, as does anyone encouraging their bad behavior. This is for their own good, just as much as the health of the facility. Successful captors will be awarded significant amounts of outside time, as well as monetary reward.

ANYA: Thank you for your constant cooperation. Let’s all work together to keep our home, and our family, safe!
>>
No. 873691 ID: fb45d4
File 152107844604.png - (15.00KB , 550x550 , 151.png )
873691

[CONTAINMENT]
It’s a lot more sterile here, but just as unnerving as the slaughterhouse you just ran through. Thankfully, there’s few staff running around, mostly interns ducking out of the way- but you need to move.

Chance runs towards the map on the wall, panting and practically collapsing. Even still, he reads off your options as best he can.
>>
No. 873692 ID: fb45d4
File 152107847217.png - (11.86KB , 550x550 , 152.png )
873692

CHANCE: RESEARCH is where they study both the staff and the experiments- sorry, I don’t know what else to call it- and run tests. You’ve probably been in there before, all of the living ones have...

CHANCE: STASIS is where they hold anyone doing tests or going under development, it’s kind of like the cell blocks, but a lot more monitored. We’re definitely going to get spotted in there, but there might be more people who could help us.

CHANCE: DEVELOPMENT is where karacels like you are further modified, especially if they don’t get the initial results...I pick up kids and bring them back to the cell blocks a lot, but that’s the only place I really know. They have records there, and that could maybe get us an advantage, or information on how to get out of here...It’s hard to say.

CHANCE: Fuller should be in the Research sector, but it’s the most heavily populated, and from the sounds of it, a lot of staff are going to be looking for us...I don’t know. We can go through them all, take the long route and stealth it out, maybe get some resources...but we can also just zip through to Fuller. I hope she’s willing to help after that reward…

NELSON: Sup also needs to rest.
SUPLEX: No I-
He shuts you up with a glare, and you know he’s right.
SUPLEX: Yeah. We have to rest.
DWAYNE: Seconding that.
CHANCE: Well...I’m not sure what sector would be best for that.
CHANCE: Any ideas?
>>
No. 873702 ID: 56e50f

>>873692
Cut through development and then to Research through the back end so we can look for Fuller.
>>
No. 873703 ID: 555f33

I'm all for getting help in Stasis but Sup needs to rest before they get spotted. Go to Development first. Eventually we'll try Fuller.
>>
No. 873722 ID: 10c408

Development. Shouldn't be too hard to find a spot to hide and rest at in there, and it's not on the opposite side of research.
>>
No. 873739 ID: 173012

>>873703
>Seconding
>>
No. 874195 ID: 15a025

Development
>>
No. 874981 ID: fb45d4
File 152176233088.png - (15.57KB , 550x550 , 153.png )
874981

SUPLEX: We go through Development for sure, rest up, grab whatever info we can. Fuller can wait until we’re not gonna eat shit.

You lean on Nelson again and you all start walking, the exhaustion starting to visibly wear you down. An intern almost goes to sound an alarm, but a quick shock stick threat by Dwayne makes him run and hide. You can’t help but smile- you knew most of them were damn cowards, but this may make shit a lot easier.
>>
No. 874982 ID: fb45d4
File 152176234978.png - (17.93KB , 550x550 , 154.png )
874982

You duck into the closest lab that looks empty, Chance and Dwayne immediately barricading the door making sure it can’t be opened- at the very least, not easily. It’ll give you time to get ready to run.
>>
No. 874984 ID: fb45d4
File 152176236926.png - (9.44KB , 550x550 , 155.png )
874984

You hear a noise from the other side of the room and everyone almost panics.

Something’s in here with you.
>>
No. 874985 ID: 173012

>Headcount, perimeter, and alarm. These are the things we need to handle.
>Restrain and suppress anything hostile, but only quiet non-hostiles.
>>
No. 874986 ID: 7e9c89

Turn around!!!! Be ready for a fight just in case, too.
>>
No. 875072 ID: fb45d4
File 152178521998.png - (17.07KB , 550x550 , 156.png )
875072

You all tense up and prepare for a fight just in case, your fears not soothed at all when the footsteps that follow are small, barely audible.

A small child wanders over, wiping sleep out of her eyes. You’d recognize that dress anywhere- a special privilege given to the Director’s special successes. She doesn’t seem scared of you at all, her voice sweet and curious.

???: Are you here to give me my check up?

Today is not your day.
>>
No. 875073 ID: 8031fe

>Keep the kid calm. They never asked for this life, and they don't deserve whatever they'll get from the Director if you're caught.
>Gently tell them they'll need to keep quiet, and ask if they want to get away from the Director
>>
No. 875075 ID: 7e9c89

We can't just. Not save the kid - she might be scared or think the Director is still good but she won't be safe here.. gotta make sure not to scare her though.
>>
No. 875077 ID: 094652

Well, this day got worse.

You don't know if the Successes are indoctrinated to backstab you when you've got your muzzle snuggling into their soft fur. What you DO know is that the Successes are highly valued. They'll make good hostages.

Capture her. Put her in a well-guarded playpen or something. Bring her with you. If she's friendly, her skills will increase your survival rate. If not, you can take her out before she can equip herself with real pain-dishing torture tools.
>>
No. 875078 ID: 91ee5f

>>875072
“W-Well.....uhhh.....could you excuse us for a moment?”

Then gather your team into a huddle and whisper, ”What do we do?!?!”
>>
No. 875082 ID: b1b4f3

Does everyone shelter the kids from the harsh realities of the world? Maybe you could just carry her around in plain view to keep anyone from messing with you. Some might even consider it an implied threat.
Problem is convincing her to go along with you.
>>
No. 875083 ID: 10c408

Tell the kid that no, you aren't here for her check up. You and your friends (gesture at them) are playing hide and go seek and are all hiding from the seeker.

Ask her that if she plays along and doesn't mention you, you'll give her a reward later.

After that, find some place to, you know, actually hide in the room so you can rest. Give the kid a hug on the way out.
>>
No. 875085 ID: 91ee5f

>>875083
Yeah, it might be best to not bring the kid along and traumatize them from all the violence that’ll end up happening.
>>
No. 875114 ID: 555f33

>>875083
Um, confer with your teammates first, but this seems like a solid plan. Temporary, maybe, but she's just a kid. The less involved she is, the better. I'd feel bad about leaving her, but that's a decision you can put off for now.
>>
No. 875118 ID: 10c408

>>875082
Seems like the successful karcels, like the kid here, do get sheltered.

The others... Well, it's been established what happens to the ones that AREN'T as lucky
>>
No. 875123 ID: 1a6dfc

>>875118
A kid in a nice dress and a bow doesn't mean that they haven't been abused. We've already seen that the rejects are tested and abused. The same would have to go for the successes. The director couldn't know if they kids were successes unless she put them through a battery of tests, as Suplex was once put through in the flashback we witnessed.

This kid has likely been through tests for physical and mental prowess with circumstances similar to what Suplex went through. So it's best to assume the successes haven't had the sheltered life that we think they have. They simply have to deal with different expectations, likely more intense than Suplex ever dealt with.
>>
No. 875132 ID: 10c408

>>875123
We don't actually know that. In fact, we know very little about how the successful half of the maybecat turnout is on a day-to-day basis in this fucked up facility.

Unless they're being abused on a daily basis, it's probably not going to be enough to overcome the mountain of shit weighing down the scale in favor of the unsuccessful ones anyway.
>>
No. 875167 ID: e1c8f7

>>875072
"No sweety. You're in the next room over. We're going to do repairs in this room so you gotta hurry along now. We won't tell anyone you went into the wrong room if you don't tell anyone we're here!"
>>
No. 875188 ID: 10c408

>>875167
We barricaded the door when we came in, that's not going to work.

Plus, she's seen us. We can't have her telling someone about the group of exhausted people until AFTER we're gone.
>>
No. 875189 ID: 555f33

Wait if she's expecting a check up, doesn't that mean scientists are on their way to this room? I think we have to convince her to keep us a secret or take her with us to an actually empty room.
>>
No. 875214 ID: 20c046

Didn't Suplex promise early on we would save every kid could? Pretty sure we don't have a choice but to take her along.
>>
No. 875231 ID: fb45d4
File 152188253785.png - (15.58KB , 550x550 , 157.png )
875231

SUPLEX: Well...You’re in the wrong room, supposed to be the next one over! Yeah!
SUPLEX: We’re here to do repairs. You better hurry on off before you get in trouble.
????: Oh, I won’t! This is the right room. I know, because the doctors always use this one!

She points to a the door.
????: Number zero five two, that’s the room! I know the numbers really well, I’m in here so much…
Her expression turns worried, but just for a second- it goes right back to friendly excitement before you can process it.

????: And I know you’re not the repair people! They don’t wear the big fluffy coats, those are for the meat people, because it’s so cold over in the fridges.
She looks immensely proud of her deduction.

????: You put stuff in front of the door, too!
????: It woke me up and everything. You’re very noisy!
SUPLEX: U-uh...can I talk to my friends for a second?
????: Sure!
She sits and waits, politely looking at your back as your party huddles up.
>>
No. 875232 ID: fb45d4
File 152188257111.png - (18.58KB , 550x550 , 158.png )
875232

SUPLEX: What the fuck it’s one of the kids we are so fucked
NELSON: Fuck, this wasn’t in the plan at all-
DWAYNE: No SHIT it wasn’t in the plan, why would we include meeting one of the hellspawn in our plan-
CHANCE: Dwayne! She’s not hellspawn, be nice…
DWAYNE: Chance, we both work with the small class maybecats, we’ve seen a lot of kids, but these ones definitely aren’t as innocent as they look if they’re the Director’s favorites.
CHANCE: I’ve worked with her and her siblings before- they’re good kids, in a really, really bad situation.
SUPLEX: Sure dressed up nice for that…
CHANCE: Can you take a peek behind you for a second, Suplex?
>>
No. 875233 ID: fb45d4
File 152188261425.png - (15.25KB , 550x550 , 159.png )
875233

You glance back, seeing the kid stare blankly into space, but not without a really weird look of contentment.

CHANCE: Take a close look at her arms, as close as you can.

You do, and you choke a bit as you notice the scars breaking up her fur, clean rings going up and down.

CHANCE: Melanie is...the Director’s absolute favorite.
CHANCE: She’s treated the best out of all three of them, and she’s still got a lot of hurt going on.

He swallows, the next few words just as hard for him as it is for you to keep looking.

CHANCE: I’ve picked her up after the Director’s tests.
CHANCE: This is the cleanest and most well patched up I’ve ever seen her.
CHANCE: Let me talk to her. She knows me better than she knows any of you-
SUPLEX: Yeah.
SUPLEX: That’d be for the best, I’m fucking awful with kids…
NELSON: You did alright, Sup. I wouldn’t have done any better.
DWAYNE: I work with these kids and it’s hard. Chance knows what he’s doing better than any of us.
DWAYNE: ...I hope.
>>
No. 875234 ID: fb45d4
File 152188265672.png - (15.48KB , 550x550 , 160.png )
875234

Chance steps forward, keeping his ears perked and tail wagging in a friendly gesture as he sits down to talk to her.
CHANCE: Hi, Melanie, right? Do you remember me?

She nods excitedly, smiling wider as he gives her a gentle pat on the head.
MELANIE: Yep! You gave me my shots...a while ago?
CHANCE: That’s right. You were really good, and sat still for me the whole time.
MELANIE: You also brought me and Mason and Maes treats, I think…
>>
No. 875235 ID: fb45d4
File 152188269754.png - (15.92KB , 550x550 , 161.png )
875235

She struggles for a second, frowning, as if she can’t put the right pieces together.
MELANIE: I think...right? I can’t remember what it was, I’m sorry…

Chance’s smile twitches a bit, and you think he might tear up any second now.
CHANCE: Right again on that one, Mel. You got it right.

Melanie perks up again easily after that, and your own throat catches. Why is being around this kid affecting you so bad?

How can she still smile?
>>
No. 875236 ID: 8031fe

>She has to smile. When they don't is why they need patching up.
>Be gentle. The kids are still kids.
>>
No. 875237 ID: 094652

Give her hope. That's what the little brats are for.

Ask her if she's willing to help on your adventure. Mostly it involves going outside for funsies.
>>
No. 875238 ID: d55249

Wait till chance is done talking to melanie and offer to take her with you. It would piss the director off to no end to rescue her favourite child and if smug satisfaction from annoying her isn’t selling you on this then what is even the point of escaping.
Should try to rescue the other kids too but don’t bother going too far out of your way for them.
Careful though, it might cause the director to actually start trying to kill you.
>>
No. 875241 ID: 555f33

Damn, we did promise to rescue everyone we could didn't we. We need Chance to make an opening where we can try to convince her that leaving is not only the right choice but a possible one. Someone who hides their pain is probably going to find it hard to believe though.
>>
No. 875254 ID: f0e552

She's just a kid, it's only natural that she has enough hope to overcome despair. Or perhaps she's just been groomed into a bad spot. Just remember that for now our perception of this person is that it's just a kid. Don't let it get to you.
>>
No. 875256 ID: 10c408

Probably because she's still innocent enough to not realize how fucked this place is.

You can't honestly tell us you weren't the same way before you became desensitized.

Let Chance do his thing and just take a seat somewhere so you can rest before you actually collapse.
>>
No. 875259 ID: b1b4f3

>>875235
Children have a tendency to do this sort of thing. To pretend everything is fine with their living situation when it absolutely isn't.

We're gonna break this kid out of here. Just in case it comes to it, you should first off tell her that you will keep her safe until we get out and would never hurt her intentionally, but you might wind up telling the other guards that she's a hostage. You might have to threaten to hurt her if they don't do what you say. How good is she at acting like she's scared? You could come up with a codephrase to cue her into acting like she's in trouble.
>>
No. 875263 ID: cb585b

Idea, what about if we take her with us? It'd piss the Director off if you escape with her favorite, and you save somebody else from this place as well...

The downside obviously being she wont be able to fight, and she'd need to be protected.
>>
No. 875285 ID: 56e50f

>>875235
Well, see if the little tyke wants to go on an adventure. You should warn her though, that adventuring can be dangerous and people may get hurt. At the very end of it all, they get to see the outside.
>>
No. 876355 ID: fb45d4
File 152257341584.png - (18.73KB , 550x550 , 162.png )
876355

You scoot close to the kid again, trying to figure out words.

SUPLEX: Uh...Melanie, right? Mel?
MELANIE: Mhm! That’s me!
SUPLEX: Do you want to come on an adventure with us?
DWAYNE: What are you doi-
Nelson shuts Dwayne up with a glare. Melanie’s eyes grow wide and she smiles big.

MELANIE: What kind of adventure?
CHANCE: One where you don’t have to be hurt anymore.
MELANIE: ...hurt?

Her face darkens, and she looks down at the scars on her arms.
MELANIE: Am I hurt?
MELANIE: I don’t remember…
MELANIE: Did.... I do something wrong again? Am I in trouble?
SUPLEX: No, no- you’re okay, you didn’t do sh- anything wrong. You’re good.
CHANCE: Very good.
MELANIE: Okay…
>>
No. 876356 ID: fb45d4
File 152257344467.png - (17.00KB , 550x550 , 163.png )
876356

She looks back up at you, confused.
MELANIE: I don’t know…
SUPLEX: We could get you and your siblings out of here...uh..Maes? Mason?
SUPLEX: All of you, and then you’d be safe.
MELANIE: Away from Mom?
SUPLEX..y-yeah. Away from Mom.

MELANIE: I love my mom... I don't want to make her sad.
MELANIE: If she cries, I'll cry too.
MELANIE: She always says I'm good, Maes does good too sometimes.
MELANIE: But....

She sniffles.

MELANIE: I don't think she likes Mason.
>>
No. 876357 ID: e1c8f7

>>876356
And that's why we want to get you and the others to the outside. If Mom can't be nice to all of you, then she needs some time away to think about how she's hurt others. It's just not fair to them. Don't you think things should be fair for everyone?
>>
No. 876362 ID: d55249

If you’re mum hurts you like this then wouldn’t you want to get to a place where she can’t hurt you?

Look, if we find mason or maes then we’ll ask them to play our game too, but if they play then your mum’s just gonna hurt whoever’s left more. It’s not going to be as good if we cant help all of you go to a place where you can’t get hurt.
If you want to try to make things better for you, maes and mason then come with us. We won’t hurt you but if you stay can you promise not to tell your mum about our game just yet?
>>
No. 876379 ID: b1b4f3

Alright. Where's Mason?
>>
No. 876560 ID: d0ac55

"If you go on adventure with us, we can make a stop at Hug Flags Mountain and get an autograph with Alison!"

"Don't you mean 'get a hug with Alison'?"

"That too, duh. Are you going to tell me we should get buns with every burger?"
>>
No. 876672 ID: 555f33

Making sure everyone in Mason's situation is safe is something we want. And so is making sure you don't have to worry if you've gotten hurt and made to forget. You just won't ever be hurt again, no forgetting needed.
>>
No. 885194 ID: 71e795
File 152678687308.png - (18.73KB , 550x550 , 164.png )
885194

SUPLEX: That’s why we gotta get you outside, all of you.
SUPLEX: Your mom’s a bi-
You’re promptly glared down by Chance.
SUPLEX:
SUPLEX: She doesn’t treat you fairly. She hurts you guys. Why don’t you want to get away from that?
MELANIE: I….
MELANIE: I don’t think…

She’s back to looking at those scars on her arms, and the look on Chance’s face makes your stomach turn with unease.
MELANIE: I don’t know, I don’t remember…I’m sorry…
CHANCE: Hey, it’s okay. You don’t have to remember anything, we just...want to help.

He kneels next to Melanie, and places a hand gently on her arm.
CHANCE: I know you don’t want to go, and I know your mom would be upset.
CHANCE: But we want to take you somewhere safer. If your mom really wants you to be safe, she’d do the same.

Melanie goes quiet, fighting back tears.
MELANIE: I won’t tell on you, but…
MELANIE: I can’t go away from Mom.
MELANIE: Maes can’t either… Mom says that we’re really, really important, and that we have a lot to do, but...
MELANIE: She yells at Mason a lot, even when he cries.
MELANIE: I think he should go, and we can stay, to keep Mom happy!
MELANIE: That way, she isn’t sad when he goes!
MELANIE: That way... he won't be yelled at anymore.
>>
No. 885195 ID: 7e9c89

I don't know that I'm comfortable leaving her here. We can't force her but.. is it really okay to leave her to get hurt?
>>
No. 885197 ID: 2b163c

):
>>
No. 885207 ID: 094652

"Then that's an even more important reason for you to tag along. If you're close to Maes, Anya won't try to really hurt him, not if her assets risk damaging you. We'll go to the border between here and outside, and if you still want to stay, we'll find you a safe spot to relax and tell Anya where you are so she can pick you up. Deal?"
>>
No. 885212 ID: dbf422

She'll never be happy, you know. She'll always want more, always be angry. If she can't be angry at Mason, she might be angry at you instead. She already hurts you, and I don't want to make things worse and then leave you here.

We won't make you come with us, but you should know how dangerous staying is. We owe you that much, for agreeing to keep quiet.
>>
No. 885239 ID: e1c8f7

>>885194
Everyone is coming. Eventually. Mom.. needs a time out. Time to herself. She'll be so much happier when she see all her kids safe and happy. She won't get any happier when we leave.. We don't want to make you face her by yourself. It's better if you come with us now and we come back later for more people.
>>
No. 885451 ID: b1b4f3

Ask if she knows where Mason is. Is he likely to agree to go with you, or will he ask for the other kids to come with him?
>>
No. 887875 ID: 21ea40

Ask the kid if she knows were he is. We gotta protect the little ones.
>>
No. 888860 ID: 53b212
File 152896130373.png - (27.81KB , 550x550 , 165.png )
888860

SUPLEX: Look...we can’t force you to come, but it feels wrong to leave you here.
SUPLEX: We’re getting out to get a chance at a better life, and we’re gonna save all the people we can.
SUPLEX: And you kids, like...
SUPLEX: ....

It’s hard to choke out the words out, but you can’t just lie to her. You can’t just….tell her that the Director’s going to get better, or that she’ll stop, because you know better.

SUPLEX: She’s my mom too, kid.
SUPLEX: She’s never going to be happy, no matter how much you try.
SUPLEX: When I was your age, I tried to think the same thing.
SUPLEX: If she can’t get angry at Mason, she might get mad at you or Maes.
SUPLEX: If you want to stay, you can stay, but….
SUPLEX: You can come with us. All three of you.
>>
No. 888861 ID: 53b212
File 152896132017.png - (28.53KB , 550x550 , 166.png )
888861

Melanie doesn’t speak for what feels like ages, the only sound in the room her holding back sniffles.

MELANIE: And we’ll be safe?
MELANIE: You promise?
>>
No. 888868 ID: ff0134

Once we get out we will be safe, but it’s going to be a while before we make it there so we’re all going to have to be strong until we do.
>>
No. 888879 ID: 094652

Hey, has anyone noticed her scars are growing wider? Also, she looks fat now. But you already knew that.

... Right, she's getting closer to berserk mode, don't upset her any further. "We'll do our best to keep you alive if you do the same in turn. I know you can."
>>
No. 888880 ID: 11a1bf

>>888860
We're going to try our best.
>>
No. 888893 ID: dbf422

>>888861
... I'll promise you this: if things go bad and we don't make it out, I'll make sure that she doesn't even think about punishing you kids for this. And if we do get out, you will be safe.

That's the best I've got. Sorry.
>>
No. 888896 ID: 8031fe

>Be honest that until we are free there are risks
>But once we're free the Director can't do shit no matter how mad she is. We'll all be safer out there than we ever were in here
>>
No. 888911 ID: 53b212

>>888879
dude, i haven't updated this quest in a month due to health reasons and i'm a bit off my consistency game. you were on thin ice after your april fool's "prank" but coming here just to give me shit for not drawing it good enough is not something i need to deal with. you're banned from posting in my threads now.
>>
No. 888933 ID: 06b384

>>888861
"I'm going to level with. You're too young to have to deal with adult decisions like this, but since you do I'm going to be completely honest.
We will do everything we possibly can to keep you as safe as we can, but no it's not safe.
The difficult part, the part they haven't been telling you, is that staying here is less safe.

When mom is unhappy with somebody she just gets meaner and meaner to them, even if they aren't doing anything wrong, until she decides to get rid of them. She will punish people she doesn't like just because somebody else made a mistake. Has she ever punished Mason because she didn't like something you did?
From what you said, if Mason stays here then she is going to be meaner and meaner to him, until one day she decides to kill him.

I don't know how things would go for you if you stayed. You may be ok, or she may blame you for Mason leaving and start doing the same.
But you can never make her happy. She will never BE happy. Not ever. Happy isn't an emotion she has.

As far as love?
Love is wanting what's best for somebody else, even if that's bad for you.
You want Mason to leave because it's best for him, even though you'll miss him. That means you love Mason.
You love Mom, because you don't want her to feel bad.
What has Mom done to make things better for you or Mason? What has she sacrificed? Because I know those scars. I've felt those scars. Those are what's left behind when she decides she wants something, and that didn't feel like love.

So no, I can't promise you would be safe, but I can promise I will never hurt you or Mason, and that I will do everything it takes to keep you from harm. Even if it kills me."
>>
No. 889449 ID: 4a9772

>>888861
Promise her they'll all be safe when we get out of here.
She's used to everything being uncertain. We need to give her something to have faith in, even if we might have our doubts.
>>
No. 890991 ID: 53b212
File 153061286462.png - (18.71KB , 550x550 , 167.png )
890991

SUPLEX: I know you love Mason, and I know you love Mom too. Our mom.
SUPLEX: But she gets mean, and punishes people because they make mistakes.
SUPLEX: Has she ever hurt Mason because of anything you or Maes did?
Melanie startles at the question, holding her own body tighter.
MELANIE: I can’t...I can’t remember, I’m sorry…
CHANCE: It’s okay, Mel. Don’t push yourself too much, okay?
CHANCE: You’re not in trouble for not remembering, and none of us are mad at you.
SUPLEX: And Mom shouldn’t be either.
SUPLEX: You can’t make her happy, kid. I don’t think anyone can.
>>
No. 890992 ID: 53b212
File 153061289113.png - (15.40KB , 550x550 , 168.png )
890992

SUPLEX: I’m gonna be honest with you...this isn’t a safe thing, but you’re even less safe here.
SUPLEX: You’re just a kid, and you shouldn’t have to live like this. You shouldn’t have to deal with this at all. None of us do, but especially not you and your siblings.
SUPLEX: If we get out of here, we’re gonna have a new life, and nobody has to hurt like this again.
SUPLEX: I’m sorry we can’t give you a proper promise, but that’s the best I got.
SUPLEX: What we can promise is that we’re going to try, and that we’re not gonna hurt you either.
SUPLEX: No matter what it takes, we’ll do our best.
SUPLEX: Does that sound okay to you?
>>
No. 890993 ID: 53b212
File 153061293847.png - (15.70KB , 550x550 , 169.png )
890993

Melanie shuffles her feet, wiping some tears off her face.

MELANIE: I have to tell Maes and Mason first...but I want to try.
MELANIE: I’ll be good...promise.

She smiles a little, and you feel a tightening in your chest.
>>
No. 890994 ID: 53b212
File 153061296315.png - (13.67KB , 550x550 , 170.png )
890994

You’ve never held something so delicately in your life.
>>
No. 890995 ID: 53b212
File 153061297992.png - (17.78KB , 550x550 , 171.png )
890995

It hurts.
>>
No. 891020 ID: dbf422

You're going to be better than your mom. You're going to save these kids not because it's convenient or because it's easy, but because you think they deserve it. And now they're your responsibility and anything that happens to them is because you involved them. That hurts. Caring hurts. But that comes with being a good person, and it's kinda looking like you might be one. Let's make that pay off.

Okay, time to go. Can't stay in one place for this long. But we need to figure out how to deal with freeing the kids. Do we go straight for them, let Melanie prime the other two without us and meet them later, or something else?
>>
No. 891027 ID: d887c0

I'm afraid to say that the pain only gets worse. It is, however, a pain worth enduring.
Now, we have to move on. Does anyone know where the other children might be?
>>
No. 891029 ID: 732079

You're doing great, Sup. Ask her if she'd be willing to make it a race. Run as quick as she can to get her friends and siblings.
>>
No. 891033 ID: 91ee5f

Since you’re the only adult female in this group, you have effectively made yourself this group’s mother.

Are you prepared for the responsibility of motherhood?
>>
No. 891759 ID: 53b212
File 153109783547.png - (14.98KB , 550x550 , 172.png )
891759

You consider motherhood.

Yeah, nope, nothing more awful than that. You’ll take being some kind of sister figure, thanks. Plus, you’re going to be better than your mother ever was.

For the kids.

Maybe even for yourself. Someday.
>>
No. 891760 ID: 53b212
File 153109786428.png - (19.86KB , 550x550 , 173.png )
891760

CHANCE: Do you know where the other kids are, Mel?
MELANIE: Oh! They’re having check ups, but different from mine! They’re in the other place!
DWAYNE: Other place?
MELANIE: Maes and Mason needed to do something, I think...I can’t remember.
MELANIE: My mom said that they need to stay there for a little until they get better.
MELANIE: But she said if my checkup was good today, I could visit for a little!!
CHANCE: Looks like that visit’s going to be earlier than you thought! We’ll get you there in no time.

Melanie beams, all of her fear seemingly forgotten. You take her hand, ready to head out-
DWAYNE: Hold up.

He pats a filing cabinet in the back corner, having wandered off while you were busy having a sentimental moment.

DWAYNE: Y’all forgot about records- y’know, the whole reason we came here for?
DWAYNE: Locks are shit, already got it open.
DWAYNE: Why don’t we have a look?
DWAYNE: Gimme something to look for. Keywords, ID numbers, whatever. Looks like it’s sorted, but it’s hard to say what’s what if I don’t have something to start from.
>>
No. 891763 ID: 8031fe

Tram system, surface.
Check employee ID numbers too, see what dirt they have on us and how we can turn that around.

Hell we can just look up where the other kids are located can't we?
>>
No. 891775 ID: 4c908d

"Need to stay there for a little while until they get better."

Oh jeebus what does that even MEAN?
>>
No. 891782 ID: dbf422

>>891763
This plus things like entrance, Mom, security, and Maes and Mason specifically.
>>
No. 891791 ID: 91ee5f

>>891759
>Plus, you’re going to be better than your mother ever was.
Wanting to be better than your mother is pretty much you saying that you’ll be a better mother to these kids than she ever was. It’s good to know that you’ll be looking out for them!

>>891760
>What to look for?
Do you think they’ve got info on everyone that’s currently in our group? It might be interesting to see what they have written down on everyone one. There might even be something on you, Suplex!
>>
No. 891806 ID: b38f01

Door codes, exits, ID numbers and.. MC-122
>>
No. 891808 ID: dbf422

>>891791
You can be better than your mom without becoming a mom. And you can look after kids without being a mom. Let Sup decide her own labels.
>>
No. 891820 ID: 91ee5f

>>891808
I know, but did you see the face she made? It was hilarious! I just wanted to see if I could get another funny reaction face from her! XD
>>
No. 891924 ID: 53b212
File 153120100810.png - (15.23KB , 550x550 , 174.png )
891924

SUPLEX: Anything on the surface? Getting out of here? The lab itself?
DWAYNE: Gimme a sec….

He sifts through a drawer, checking the other one before pulling out a thin folder.
DWAYNE: The Menagerie is the largest biotech facility in Taverne, and is recognized as the top hospital in all of Precipice…etc, etc…
DWAYNE: Ugh, this is all just the propaganda papers they hand out to staff.
DWAYNE: Figures they wouldn’t keep fucking-

Chance gives him a death glare and gestures to Melanie.

DWAYNE: Sorry, freaking escape plans. Us guards are just as much prisoners as you.

SUPLEX: What about us? I got my ID number, uh….
NELSON: MC-122. I’m IT-573.
CHANCE: Here, I know the ones for the kids…

Your party gets to sifting through drawers while you sit on the sidelines, unable to help much. Mel’s happy for the company, at least.

CHANCE: Okay!
CHANCE: Got docs on us, and a few docs on the kids...let’s see what’s inside ours.
>>
No. 891925 ID: 53b212
File 153120103378.png - (19.84KB , 600x600 , 175.png )
891925

He keeps his voice clear as he reads the documents, making sure to clarify who’s who amidst all the ID numbers.

SUPLEX
ID: MC-122
SPECIES: Karacel
STATUS: Alive
ORIGIN: Donated egg.
AGE: 25 years
LIFESPAN: 35 years
MUTATIONS: Enhanced strength and durability. Larger size than intended. Extremely high pain tolerance. Deformed muzzle, has breathing issues as a result. No thumbs. Multiple breasts. Rows of teeth, long tongue.
NOTES: Ineffective for Devil’s Advocacy, despite showing initial promise. Volatile, to be handled with caution.

NELSON
ID: IT-573
SPECIES: Snuglin
STATUS: Alive
ORIGIN: Purchased from the Snuglin Corporation at age 13. trained in the facility.
AGE: 26 years
LIFESPAN: Unknown
MUTATIONS: None.
NOTES: None.

CHANCE
ID: IT-966
SPECIES: Ruffneck
STATUS: Alive
ORIGIN: Hired at 18 as a caretaker, quickly moved to the Devil’s Advocacy project after showing competence in all areas.
AGE: 27 years
LIFESPAN: Unknown
MUTATIONS: None.
NOTES: None.

DWAYNE
ID: IT-394
SPECIES: Pockitt
STATUS: Alive
ORIGIN: Acquired at age 3, trained in the facility.
AGE: 23 years
LIFESPAN: Unknown.
MUTATIONS: None.
NOTES: None.

No one’s sure what to say, and Chance takes it as a cue to move as quickly as possible to avoid further awkwardness.
>>
No. 891926 ID: 53b212
File 153120108031.png - (18.25KB , 550x550 , 176.png )
891926

CHANCE: O-okay, time for the kids...

MAES
ID: MC-001
SPECIES: Karacel
STATUS: Alive
ORIGIN: Heavily modified donated egg. Exposed to max radiation with great success.
AGE: 5 years
LIFESPAN: 40 years
MUTATIONS: Enhanced strength and durability. Teeth modification manifests as rows of teeth- they fall out often, and regrow quickly. Unhingeable jaw. Organ systems similar to that of a horror. High metabolism and extreme hunger cravings. Can digest most materials, including bone, metal, and toxic substances.
NOTES: Quick thinking, picks up academic concepts with ease. Makes mistakes often, but responds well to discipline. Requires more training, but has potential for great success.

CHANCE: Melanie’s here…
He frowns as he reads down the page, voice wavering slightly with each line. Melanie doesn’t seem to react to any of it, too busy playing with your coat.

MELANIE
ID: MC-002
SPECIES: Karacel
STATUS: Alive
ORIGIN: Heavily modified donated egg. Exposed to max radiation with great success.
AGE: 5 years
LIFESPAN: Unknown. Expected to in the 35-40 range, though tests have proved inconclusive.
MUTATIONS: Enhanced strength and durability, teeth modification manifests as rows capable of rotating and grinding prey into easily swallowable pieces. Organ systems similar to that of a horror. High metabolism. Regenerative qualities.
NOTES: Has successfully regenerated limbs in all tests, no matter the length. Limbs regenerate with scars left on previous iterations. Very agreeable and curious, diligent in her studies. The current most likely candidate for Devil’s Advocacy.

It takes Chance a minute, swallowing hard as he reaches Mason’s file. His voice grows even shakier, ears flattening against his hair.

MASON
ID: MC-003
SPECIES: Karacel
STATUS: Alive
ORIGIN: Heavily modified donated egg. Exposed to max radiation with moderate success, despite being modified to react perfectly to horror.
AGE: 5 years
LIFESPAN: 35 years
MUTATIONS: Enhanced strength and durability, teeth modification manifests as unwieldy tusks. Larger size than intended. Organ systems similar to that of a horror. High metabolism. Cannot form “blood” clots properly, though his internal sludge regenerates fast enough to avoid long term detriment. Will bleed excessively without outside intervention.
NOTES: Struggles with academics, especially in reading, and responds to discipline poorly. Success highly unlikely.

No one says a word after Chance finishes, quietly shuffling the folders into a little pile.

What is there to say?
>>
No. 891932 ID: b1b4f3

>>891926
What the hell is Devil's Advocacy? We need to know what the purpose of this project is, now.
I wonder. Can Melanie tell us what her studies consist of? Is she just learning academics, or is she learning how to fight too?

At least now we know what a Maybecat is. A horror-mutated karacel. Mason seems to be the least successful one in the modified-egg group, which is why "Mom" doesn't like him.
>>
No. 891937 ID: f3ba9e

Let's not look into the Devil's Advocacy project. It won't help the group escape, and might make everyone feel worse. It's at best a red herring, and at worst Pandora's Box.
>>
No. 891945 ID: b38f01

We'll save them. That's all we need to say.
>>
No. 891946 ID: 166e1c

They cut Melanie's limbs? Seriously?
And her theeth can rotate? How does that works?
What even is an horror?

Chance, you came here willing? Why?
>>
No. 891947 ID: b1b4f3

Man I don't want to know how they knew they could cut off Melanie's limbs but not anyone else's.
>>
No. 891956 ID: 5de987

>>891925
Chance looks so nervous and so adorab
>DWAYNE
>Acquired at age 3
The FUCK?!

Check more files on Karacel and see if they all have enhanced strength and durability and teeth mutations.
>>
No. 891957 ID: dbf422

We don't live long, huh. Wonder if that's a modification thing or a "karacell" thing. Oh, and thanks, Nelson. Always looking out for us.

Chance what do you know? What's Devil's advocacy? Why did you work on it?
>>
No. 891962 ID: 8031fe

>Devil's Advocacy, so what is it.
>Any idea if we can find out about those we freed earlier? maybe keyword psychic?
>>
No. 892004 ID: d887c0

We obviously need to know what Devil’s Advocacy is, but we also need to know where they're keeping Maes and Mason.
>>
No. 892009 ID: 614e35

Something tells me Maes is going to be harder to convince than Mason. Also, is there a particular reason the kids all have similar names?
>>
No. 892085 ID: 53b212
File 153128897659.png - (18.36KB , 550x550 , 177.png )
892085

SUPLEX: What the hell is Devil’s Advocacy?!
SUPLEX: What’s a horror... why use us? Why is any of this happening?

You turn to Chance, unable to keep an edge of anger out of your voice. You can feel Melanie hanging onto your coat, but you’re two steps away from seeing red.

SUPLEX: Why are you here, why do you help them?
SUPLEX: You...you signed up for this!
CHANCE: I, no, I didn’t…

Chance swallows, avoiding eye contact. You get the feeling he’s trying not to cry, but at the moment, you could care less.

CHANCE: I just wanted to help kids, I swear!
CHANCE: I came in for an interview and they told me I'd be taking care of children; teaching them, helping out with medical treatments!
CHANCE: I told them I was capable of all that and they just... I woke up down here and they put me to work.

CHANCE: That is all I know! I don't want to be here either! I... I need to get back to the surface, too, I need to go home, but I can't leave the kids here, either; not after everything I've seen! Everything I had to do!
CHANCE: And if I die then they won't have anyone to look after them! No one else here cares, nobody else does anything...it's not okay, and I can't handle it, but I have to. For them.

He pauses to wipe away his tears, though it doesn't do much as they keep coming. He looks up from the floor, glaring straight at you.

CHANCE: ...Do you think I enjoy this? Do you really think I enjoy being part of a... meat grinder for chil--

Realizing Melanie is listening, he quickly drops the last word of the sentence and moves on.

CHANCE: Do you think I can sleep at night? Knowing that I'm a part of this? Knowing that I'm an asset to these... these...

His chest heaves as he barely holds back his voice, raising it as loud as he can without potentially attracting attention from outside.

CHANCE: I didn't choose to be here, but I can still make up for it. One way or another...
CHANCE: I'll pay for what I've done, but I hope it'll save lives. I'll do everything in my power, even if all it amounts to is giving a kid a happier day in hell.
>>
No. 892086 ID: 53b212
File 153128900649.png - (30.22KB , 550x550 , 178.png )
892086

You can’t say you were expecting that kind of reaction, and you shut the hell up quick. Nelson’s the first to speak up again, placing a hand on Chance’s shoulder as he trembles.

NELSON: We’ll get out of here, Chance.
NELSON: Please, if either of you know about Devil’s Advocacy- this is the first time I’ve even heard of it.
DWAYNE: I’m in the same boat, but…

He gets to digging around in the filing cabinet again, and Chance takes a deep breath, collecting himself.
He looks to Melanie, noticing her concern, and bends down to meet her eye level.

CHANCE: Hey, Mel. Sorry for getting loud. I got upset, but I shouldn't have raised my voice like that. I hope it didn't scare you.
MELANIE: You didn't scare me, but... are you okay? You were crying...
CHANCE: I'm okay. Are you okay?

She nods back to him.

CHANCE: Good.
CHANCE: Now can you cover your ears for me really quick?
MELANIE: Close my eyes, too?
CHANCE: No, that's okay, just your ears. I'll give you a thumbs up when you can uncover 'em. Okay?
MELANIE: Okay...

She follows instructions immediately, and Chance gives her a warm smile before continuing.

CHANCE: I don't know a lot of the details, but I picked up some things just from my job and eavesdropping.
CHANCE: It involves the mass creation and harvest of mutated karacels... some from eggs, some from... "acquisitions" is how they word it.
CHANCE: My best guess is, like Dwayne, they got picked up from orphanages, even bought from shady sources.
CHANCE: They forcibly expose the karacels to horror and get rid of the ones that don't match whatever standards they're looking for; either immediately or whenever their number comes up, which could be years later.
CHANCE: I don't know why the Director does it. I've never known. I don't know if I want to.
CHANCE: It's not like it matters, anyways. Nothing could justify this.

Dwayne finally fishes out another folder, flicking through the pages within.

DWAYNE: This is the best I could find.
DWAYNE: It’s not much, but...I guess it backs up what Chance says well enough.
>>
No. 892087 ID: 53b212
File 153128904034.png - (25.71KB , 550x550 , 179.png )
892087

DEVIL’S ADVOCACY
Welcome to the Devil’s Advocacy project! Working to create our new heir is an honor and a privilege, and you’ll gain the experience of a lifetime.

With free room and board, on the job training, and our state of the art facilities, you’ll be well prepared for the job ahead! The mark you make on the world will be remembered for decades to come, and you’ll go down in history for your diligent work.

Horror mutation is a risky business, but with your help, we can keep the process safe and regulated. You have been chosen for this position due to your successes in the fields of mutation, modification, and surgical care. In this position you will induce and encounter a myriad of mutations never seen before, and cultivate ideal traits for our heir.

When working with maximum mutation thresholds, mutations are extremely varied- thankfully, due to our advances in horror-based technology, we have a degree of control over what mutations we can induce! Please look out for:

-high metabolism
-carnivorous diet
-teeth mutations
-minimal size mutations
-enhanced strength
-sapience- our heir cannot reach terror levels!
-heightened senses and well above average intelligence
-concealed mutations- most must not be visible!
-horror-based biology
-any mutation that could be an asset to our heir- please file Form A-846 to see if one or more of your results qualifies!

Once a specimen has been mutated and developed into an infantile stage, they will be directed to the Birth sector for initial examination and evaluation. If a specimen meets our standards, they will be selected to go forward through training and further testing. Specimens will be brought to Stasis in the Containment sector for these tests, and will be returned to their cell blocks by guards once completed. Tests will be unique to the specimen, and instructions will be given prior to the examination.


We welcome you to our project, and look forward to your contributions!
>>
No. 892089 ID: 7b53bd

so whatever heir they're looking for needs to be very heavily mutated but appear to not be mutated at all. i'd imagine this would be some kind of stealth operative but then why use the word 'heir'?
>>
No. 892090 ID: 10c408

"So that's it. We're all just a bunch of attempts at successfully making someone else's puppet."

deep breaths, count to ten or a hundred.

"if everyone is rested, we should get back to escaping."
>>
No. 892100 ID: d887c0

I'd call this some sort of super soldier program, but they only seem interested in making one, distinct individual for some unknown purpose. Whatever it is, it can't be good for anyone.

I say we pack up and get a move on before the heat comes down.
>>
No. 892102 ID: dbf422

Still don't know what A horror is, but... It's almost like they're trying to, what, find away to be immune to these horrors? Except they just want one. And they aren't saying why. Whatever the fu- the fudge they want isn't worth it. They could be saving the world and it wouldn't be worth it. Not with all the extra torture, not with the emotional abuse, and not with all the murder. And NOT with a madwoman in charge.
>>
No. 892108 ID: b1b4f3

>>892087
>create an heir
Heir for what? For who?
>>
No. 892137 ID: 173012

>>892100

>Agreed
>So, Suplex went through these tests if correct, and the goal they want is to create the ideal heir (to what, this facility, The Director?)

>Look up information on where we can go next, as we have some options on what facility to pick.
>Look up Terrors
>>
No. 892148 ID: b38f01

>>892087
Sounds like the director is looking for a replacement. that's concerning. If she finds them, this place will go on for a long time. Do we really want that?
>>
No. 892913 ID: 15a025

A strange question but possibly related to the whole "new heir". Ask about what kind religion is practiced down here?
>>
No. 893006 ID: e3e99e

>>892087
Does the director have a file?
>>
No. 893476 ID: 53b212
File 153188765358.png - (14.28KB , 550x550 , 180.png )
893476

SUPLEX: So...we’re just...we’re just screwed up attempts at making somebody else’s puppet.
SUPLEX: We’re table scraps.

You breathe in deep through your mouth, trying to ignore the raw panic and anger stewing in your stomach. You knew you meant nothing to these bastards a long time ago, but to know that everyone in this hell was less than meat was getting to you more than you’d ever admit.

It was different, when it was just you, or when your siblings didn’t have names to their faces.

It was different before you actually felt like you could fight back, and even win.
>>
No. 893477 ID: 53b212
File 153188767317.png - (17.72KB , 550x550 , 181.png )
893477

SUPLEX: Try terrors, horror, whatever the hell those are.

HORROR HANDLING

To avoid mutation on the job, handle horror with care! While many mutations are beneficial, the seemingly random nature of horror can lead to casualties and significant damage to the lab itself. Employees found mutating themselves without higher approval will be terminated. This privilege cannot be applied for, and must be awarded.

Our horror reserves are safely contained as long as procedure is followed. Extract the exact amount of horror necessary and combine with the listed materials included on your specimen’s chart. Using incorrect amounts of any substance can lead to catastrophic failure and death to both specimens and staff.

Always wear the provided safety gear, and keep your exposure sessions to the corresponding labs in the Birth sector.

Failure to comply with these rules will lead to immediate termination.
>>
No. 893478 ID: 53b212
File 153188770467.png - (18.46KB , 550x550 , 182.png )
893478

MUTATION LEVELS

Mutation thresholds are a crucial part of the mutation process. Failure to observe and note a specimen’s threshold will result in them becoming a terror, which nullifies any potential it may have as an heir. Terrors are harder to handle and the number one cause of on the job casualties, and those not cleared for further experimentation will be culled.

To observe a specimen’s mutation threshold, expose your specimen to horror over time, and take notes on the rate mutations appear. While donated eggs are the most receptive to horror, the effects cannot be fully observed until the specimen has reached an infantile state. Once mutations slow down, stop the exposure and submit your report to be evaluated. Your goal is to approx maximum exposure as much as possible, but too far will waste your work entirely.

Signs of approaching terror status include outright violent behavior, lack of intelligent response, animalistic body language, and insatiable hunger. A terror will attack regardless of its own safety, and attempts to fight against them will be met with more violence. Cull an enraged terror quickly, and keep your mutations to infantile specimens whenever possible to avoid potential destruction to lab property.

Our ideal heir’s maximum threshold is a complete immunity to turning terror, which requires extremely careful work. Finding a terror-proof specimen will reward you highly, so do your best!
>>
No. 893479 ID: 53b212
File 153188773079.png - (17.29KB , 550x550 , 184.png )
893479

SUPLEX: Anything on the Director?

Dwayne goes through more files, getting more frustrated with every drawer.
DWAYNE: Nothing obvious.
DWAYNE: I guess that kind of thing wouldn’t be accessible here.

SUPLEX: Where do we even go from here?
CHANCE: Well, the Devil’s Advocacy file says that the kids get taken to Stasis for tests...I’d say that’s our best guess.
CHANCE: It’s close-
DWAYNE: But we’ll have to double back over to Research to talk to Doc Fuller.
Chance nods.
CHANCE: Grabbing the kids takes priority. Fuller can wait, and who knows what could happen the longer we lag behind.
SUPLEX: Let’s get the hell out, then.
SUPLEX: I’m sick of reading about this sh--

Chance gently nudges your side.

SUPLEX: ...This... place.
SUPLEX: C'mon, let's go.
>>
No. 893480 ID: 53b212
File 153188776602.png - (16.76KB , 550x550 , 185.png )
893480

Melanie looks up and you fake a smile, the kid returning the look with a genuine one back at you. You have no idea how she stays this calm, but you can’t help but feel strangely sad when you see her completely unphased. You start to feel a bit awkward meeting eyes with her, but Chance breaks the silence.

He leans down to meet Melanie.

CHANCE: Up for a piggyback?
Melanie seems confused for a moment, but things seem to click for her fairly quickly.
MELANIE: Oh! Yeah, I'd like that!

He turns around and crouches down, putting his hands behind him.

CHANCE: Hop on!

Melanie eagerly climbs up onto Chance and holds on tight, looking excited for the first time since you'd met her.
Chance breathes a small sigh of relief, then glances at you.

CHANCE: Good to go?
SUPLEX: As I’ll ever be.
>>
No. 893481 ID: 53b212
File 153188778813.png - (14.77KB , 550x550 , 186.png )
893481

This hallway looks empty, but you get the feeling that that’s not something you can count on. Everyone’s still on high alert, and the second Melanie’s found missing, you’re in trouble.

DWAYNE: This place is pretty much all hallways, which doesn’t give us much room to move if things get dicey.
DWAYNE: I’ll be honest, I have no idea how we’re going to manage this.
DWAYNE: So if anyone’s got any ideas, that’d be swell.
>>
No. 893482 ID: d887c0

Posse out.
>>
No. 893487 ID: dbf422

We could go room to room? Or just duck into one if we hear people coming. Anything labeled closet would be the best, I guess, if they aren't too small. Other than that, maybe have someone scout around corners?
>>
No. 893489 ID: b1b4f3

This would be an excellent time to have Vivi. I wish the plan had worked and we'd joined back up with her.

I think the only thing we can really do is have the least suspicious party members up in front to check around corners and give the all-clear.
>>
No. 893491 ID: 173012

'send' out pings to see if we can get a hold of Vivi. Some sort of thought. But only every few times we decide to rest.

Resting will be determined by when we either feel the need to duck into an available room, or when it seems prudent.

Say every 2 to 4 corridors we move through?

Our real goal will be finding a map or something. We should have looked for one but whatever.
>>
No. 893510 ID: f85fa8

We have to find a way to release all the horror terrors before we escape.
>>
No. 893527 ID: b38f01

Let's get our weapons up front, Suplex on rear guard and VIP in the middle.
>>
No. 893528 ID: dbf422

>>893487
Right. We came in this room to rest. Unfortunately we've got a new time sensitive wrinkle, but we can still prioritize short breaks when we duck into rooms.
>>
No. 893852 ID: 53b212
File 153211675895.png - (17.20KB , 550x550 , 187.png )
893852

SUPLEX: We’ll go slow, Dwayne and Nelson in the front, me in the back, Chance and Mel in the middle.
SUPLEX: If we hear somebody coming, we go for the closest room. We should do it every few halls by default, just in case.
NELSON: What if someone’s inside, like a doctor?
SUPLEX: We handle it. Obviously we go for empty-looking ones as much as possible, but we can take a doc or two as long as we do it quick.
SUPLEX: Look for maps as soon as we can.
SUPLEX: The sooner we know how to get out of this place, the sooner we can help those kids.

Your party gets moving, and you start sending out mental pings for Vivi again, slowly losing hope that she was out there and still alive-
>>
No. 893853 ID: 53b212
File 153211677550.png - (34.87KB , 550x550 , 188.png )
893853

But you get a response, nearly immediately.

VIVI: Oh! Sister! I was waiting to hear from you, are you alright?
SUPLEX: Same here, actually...we’ve been better, but we’re holding up.
VIVI: I’m glad to hear it...we’re making progress in your wake, but there has been a little problem keeping us from meeting up again…

VIVI: There is someone, not a guard nor sibling, killing everyone in sight.
VIVI: They took out multiple members of our group, only stopping when they realized what they were looking for wasn’t here.
VIVI: I tried to look into their mind, but…

Her voice goes quiet, and you nearly panic that she’d gotten attacked herself.
>>
No. 893854 ID: 53b212
File 153211679601.png - (101.83KB , 550x550 , 189.png )
893854

VIVI: It's as if there was nothing left, just a body on auto-pilot.
VIVI: Either unconsciously or through purposefully burying any sense of hope, empathy, fear, anything.
VIVI: Even with my entire life spent here, I have never seen someone so lost.
>>
No. 893856 ID: e7848c

Someone honestly and truly lost to Terror. Ask her to send out the word to avoid this one at all cost. But keep track of them if possible to do so safely.
>>
No. 893858 ID: eb2fe2

>>893854
Well if they're dead inside let's make them dead on the outside as well. When you say 'took out' are they dead or just injured? Where's this attacker? We'll form some plan of attack.
>>
No. 893861 ID: b1b4f3

Huh, maybe that's what set off the alarm, and not us escaping? An interesting coincidence. It's either that, or some kind of hunter-killer sent to retrieve/kill Suplex. I say we don't try to talk any sense into the emotionally-dead murderer. That is something to avoid at all costs. Ask for the last location of the lost one, then ask for her current location.

Also relay this information to the others. Maybe your staff allies know who the lost one is?
>>
No. 893863 ID: 91ee5f

>>893858
How about, no? Let’s not go looking for the thing that killed a bunch of maybecats! Especially now that we’ve got a kid with us!

>>893861
I agree with all of this.

Keep away from that guy, don’t try to fight him, tell the others, and find a way to help Vivi regroup with us.
>>
No. 893874 ID: d887c0

>>893854
Bad motherfucker with a screw loose. Avoid. Got it.
Relay all this to your crew then get back on track.
>>
No. 893895 ID: dbf422

Let her know it sounds like one of failed experiments repurposed as a weapon. We're attempts to avoid becoming what they are, but maybe what they are is useful as insurance against escaping subjects. Or against specific subjects escaping. Maybe.

Doesn't matter, still need to avoid at all costs and guessing at what they are doesn't change that. Except that there doesn't seem to be a way to save them, so don't risk that.

Thanks for the heads up.
>>
No. 893940 ID: 15a025

Pass along the terror info we got to Vivi.
>>
No. 894093 ID: fafba8

>>893854
Tell Vivi about the terro information we have.
>>
No. 894293 ID: 53b212
File 153247496541.png - (24.07KB , 550x550 , 190.png )
894293

You sigh hard, not realizing it was aloud until Nelson looks over his shoulder to check on you. You wave him away quickly, getting back to your conversation.

SUPLEX: Just what we need, another murderous asshole running around with a screw loose.
SUPLEX: We’re dealing with like...when you say “take out”, how bad are we talking?
VIVI: There’s nothing left.
VIVI: Bodies twisted, mangled, pulped…
VIVI: I didn’t even see it happening, it was as if I took my eyes away for just a moment, and when I heard them cry out I turned back and they were all silent, nothing left to scream with.

Your sister sounds legitimately rattled now, even her clear mental voice shaking.

VIVI: I wanted to run. I promised so many people I would fight, but in that moment I only wanted to run as fast as I could.
VIVI: I think I would have if they didn’t leave of their own accord, as quickly as they came.
>>
No. 894294 ID: 53b212
File 153247503702.png - (19.27KB , 550x550 , 191.png )
894294

SUPLEX: Were they some kind of experiment?
VIVI: It’s hard to say...they did share a collar like our own, but they had clothes, actual clothes.
VIVI: None of us have ever been allowed as much, outside of the Director’s chosen successes...but their outfit was so worn down and tattered, it’s hard to say.
VIVI: If they are an experiment, they’re far, far different from us.
VIVI: I tried to reach for more in their mind, for any sort of clue, but couldn’t grasp anything concrete.

SUPLEX: We got into some lab files and found some shit on terrors, whatever those are.
SUPLEX: Any chance this fucker is one?
VIVI: Terrors...
VIVI: ...Yes, I think I know of those. I’ve certainly seen them before.
VIVI: Our siblings who have lost their humanity, the ones that respond to nothing but the smell of blood and temptation of a meal…
VIVI: Those are terrors.
VIVI: Their minds are full of chaos, animalistic needs overwhelming any potential for rational thoughts.
VIVI: With this one, though...there was truly nothing to dig into. Cold and empty.
VIVI: A terror’s mind is volatile. There is so much happening all at once, and even a glance at the worst of them can overwhelm me for some time.
VIVI: This person just... it was as if they had taken a knife to their mind and carved away until nothing was left.
VIVI: That's the best way I can describe it.
>>
No. 894296 ID: 53b212
File 153247507242.png - (23.44KB , 550x550 , 192.png )
894296

SUPLEX: ...whoof.
VIVI: Mm.
SUPLEX: We’ll do our best to avoid 'em, then.
VIVI: Where are you now?
SUPLEX: Shit, uhhh... Development? In the Containment place? I think...?

Vivi goes silent, once again speaking up just before the panic fully set in.

VIVI: Well! I have some bad news.
VIVI: We’re just getting out of Intake ourselves. We’re lagging behind quite a bit, after needing to take out the guards, free our siblings…
SUPLEX: Right.
VIVI: They headed the same way we were planning on going- right after you.
VIVI: If you’re still in Containment, there’s a good chance that this person is on their way or already there.
VIVI: And judging from what unfolded here, they’ll be leaving a massacre in their wake.
VIVI: Move quickly, and be careful. Please.
>>
No. 894308 ID: d887c0

RIght then! Wish Vivi good luck, then tell your crew it's time to leg it.
>>
No. 894312 ID: dbf422

To Vivi: "Luckily we have our own detours, so we can multitask not getting murdered and doing some extra rescue. You guys stay safe too. Don't get caught off-guard again."
To our group: "Things went from bad to fucking awful, we can't go slow and careful anymore. Let's move it."
>>
No. 894314 ID: b1b4f3

Tell your party there's a stupendously powerful enforcer on your tail and we need to get away from here.
>>
No. 894379 ID: b38f01

>>894296
Please stay safe, Vivi. Keep a wide berth if you need too.
We need to hurry.
>>
No. 894694 ID: 15a025

Carefully warn the others about what's up. I'm not sure if we should tell Melanie exactly what's running around here or not?
>>
No. 895547 ID: 53b212
File 153311439572.png - (17.61KB , 550x550 , 193.png )
895547

SUPLEX: Stay safe and watch your backs. We’ll work on getting the fuck out of here before they can reach us, but you make sure they don't double back your way.
VIVI: We’ll do our best.

You tune out and stop your party, trying to ignore the cold sweat already starting up.

SUPLEX: Stop.
NELSON: ?
NELSON: Did something happen-
SUPLEX: We need to move. Now. I got in touch with Vivi and there’s someone stupidly strong coming for our asses.
DWAYNE: Wait, what?
SUPLEX: They’re killing everybody and we need to run. No more room for stealth.
SUPLEX: Whatever guards they have ahead of us here, it’s nothing compared to who’s on our tail now.

There’s a moment of silence before everyone starts moving again, no protest necessary. Mel’s more than a little confused, but Chance reassures her and lets her know to hold on tight.
>>
No. 895548 ID: 53b212
File 153311441098.png - (18.20KB , 550x550 , 194.png )
895548

There’s a junction at the end of the hallway, two signs labelling which way was which.

NELSON: “Exposure” to the left….
He hesitates.
NELSON: “Testing” to the right.
NELSON: Neither of those sound like a good time, and there’s no indicator which one would get us to Stasis faster…
>>
No. 895549 ID: bf53e3

exposure's probably full of contained horror radiation in some form so that's not dangerous. testing probably has unstable siblings, we should go through there and see if there's anyone we can save
>>
No. 895550 ID: b1b4f3

From the files we looked at, Exposure is where they apply Horror to test subjects. Sounds like something we don't want to be near. Testing is a better idea.
>>
No. 895551 ID: b38f01

Testing. Exposure sounds risky. Things can get bad real bad in there.
>>
No. 895558 ID: 91ee5f

>>895548
Go to testing.
>>
No. 895572 ID: dbf422

>>895549
Really good points. Honestly I want to be safe and go to the probably contained exposure area but. If there's a chance to save someone we should take it.

Go to testing.
>>
No. 895583 ID: d887c0

Everyone's saying Testing, but if I were a betting boy, I'd say that's exactly where the super freak is right now. I'd choose potential Horror exposure over guaranteed murder any day.
>>
No. 895684 ID: dbf422

>>895583
Why would you bet that? They're supposedly between us and Vivi right now and we didn't go through Testing to get here.

Even if that is a possibility that's not exactly a guarantee.
>>
No. 895699 ID: d887c0

>>895684
Just call it a hunch.
>>
No. 895904 ID: 53b212
File 153333199156.png - (22.48KB , 550x550 , 195.png )
895904

Something feels off to you about Testing, but you swallow your fears.

SUPLEX: Exposure could be safer if all that horror junk is contained, but...
SUPLEX: There’s probably more siblings that need our help in Testing.
DWAYNE: If you say so.

The testing hall is familiar, heavy metal doors and glass windows meant to show the experiments inside. Most of them seem empty...this does more to worry you than reassure. Getting rid of the leftovers.

NELSON: What do we even do if we find someone?
NELSON: We have no idea what could be in here, or if they’re even capable of coming with us.
NELSON: Letting them loose might be a death sentence.
NELSON: We don’t have Vivi here to sober any of them up if they’re drugged, and god knows what they’ve been doing to them-
>>
No. 895906 ID: 53b212
File 153333235482.png - (69.45KB , 550x550 , 196.png )
895906

As if in response, a hand slaps against a window, one more bloody pawprint amidst many, some dry, some fresh. The soft wailing from within is pained, pleading.
>>
No. 895915 ID: b1b4f3

Welp, gonna have to at least look to see what's going on in there. Keep the kid away though.
>>
No. 895922 ID: 91ee5f

>>895906
Don’t let the kid look!
>>
No. 895957 ID: dbf422

It's a death sentence being in this place. Right now we're running on a vague hope of a better life and that kind of pessimism isn't helping. We aren't going to kill anyone that can't survive out of Testing but we're not going to not try to help them if there's a chance.

Speaking of, Chance. She's going to see at some point, but help the kid avoid the worst of it.
>>
No. 895958 ID: e7848c

Only take a peek. Shield the kid.
>>
No. 896066 ID: 10c408

Don't look in the window! We're not suppose to be here. Have someone else like chance/nelson take a peek instead.
>>
No. 896807 ID: 15a025

Take a quick peek.
>>
No. 897068 ID: eb2fe2

Have a look inside. It looks like a waist high wall? Kid might not be able to see anyway. Keep her back at any rate. See what's going on in there.
>>
No. 897231 ID: 53b212
File 153430820809.png - (23.19KB , 550x550 , 197.png )
897231

SUPLEX: Stay back and don’t let the kid see.

Melanie’s voice is concerned, but lacking any fear at all.
MELANIE: It sounds hurt, I want to see-
CHANCE: It’s okay, Mel. Sup is just going to peek inside, to make sure they're okay.

She nods, her worried expression remaining.

You take a look.
>>
No. 897232 ID: 53b212
File 153430823385.png - (66.81KB , 550x550 , 198.png )
897232

The creature inside is barely recognizable as one of your siblings, mangled and twisted all over. How they’re still alive is a complete mystery to you, and not one you think you want to solve. Blood seems to pulse through the tubing protruding from their body, and you can’t help but wonder if there’s even a fucking purpose to it, or if it was just to see what would happen.

They cry out again, softer this time. It takes a while to find their eyes, more pouring out of the corners like tears. They try to prop themselves up and slip, giving up after a few tries.

You’re starting to feel nauseous, but you can’t look away.
>>
No. 897233 ID: e372f2

say hi. maybe they can still communicate. it might be best to put them out of their misery otherwise...
>>
No. 897234 ID: 8031fe

I don't know what to say here, to be exact. I'm a person who tends to hold out hope, but what we know about horror mutation so far.. I don't want to jump to euthanization, but I don't see any way we can help them otherwise. Leaving them behind? That feels horribly wrong. Taking them with us? That might just put them in more pain.

I'm not sure where to begin, but they're pleading while in very terrible pain.

>Have Mel cover their ears.
>Shock sticks are fatal right? This one's in pain and it's not pretty, and it's not right to leave them like this.
>>
No. 897237 ID: 91ee5f

>>897232
Just keep moving.

I don’t think there’s anything any of you can do for that guy. We also don’t really have time to stop and attempt to do anything, since there’s an unbelievably powerful thing right behind your group and you have no idea how quickly it’ll catch up to you.

Make sure you tell the others to not let Melanie see this.
>>
No. 897251 ID: dbf422

>>897234
Do this. They want to prop themself up, so help them do that much. If they want anything else... Do the right thing.
>>
No. 897256 ID: b38f01

We have to keep moving..
>>
No. 897354 ID: a48264

There's no time for this. Going in there is just asking for more trouble. They're asking for help, not death, so we have no right to put them out of their misery. Just move on -- and quickly. Focus on helping the people that have a chance of escaping alive, such as your current group.
>>
No. 897357 ID: b1b4f3

I don't think there's anything you can really do to help and you might want to avoid causing a scene. Which means keep moving.
>>
No. 898428 ID: 53b212
File 153489670577.png - (24.88KB , 550x550 , 199.png )
898428

SUPLEX: We have to keep moving.
MELANIE: But-
SUPLEX: They’ll...they’ll be fine, Mel. They’re just a little sick.
MELANIE: Are you sure it’ll be okay?
SUPLEX: ...yeah. Promise.

You catch a look from Chance, but he says nothing.
You look back, pressing your hand to the glass for just a moment more. Your sibling inside watches, exhaling and lying back down in defeat.

Pulling yourself away feels wrong, but you get back to it.
>>
No. 898429 ID: 53b212
File 153489673119.png - (31.04KB , 550x550 , 200.png )
898429

There was nothing you could do.
>>
No. 898430 ID: 53b212
File 153489674827.png - (200.58KB , 550x550 , 201.png )
898430

There was nothing you could ever do.
>>
No. 898431 ID: 53b212
File 153489676521.png - (43.16KB , 550x550 , 202.png )
898431

You were born helpless into this hellscape and so was everyone around you, all toys and playthings for this horrible bitch- no. Not toys.

Toys were loved, but you, you were just meat. Just, just…
>>
No. 898432 ID: 53b212
File 153489678505.png - (45.51KB , 550x550 , 203.png )
898432

NELSON: Sup!
NELSON: You’re gonna leave us behind, slow down!

He catches up before the others, wheezing.

NELSON: Are you okay?!
>>
No. 898433 ID: 6182d2

l o o k b e h i n d y o u
>>
No. 898434 ID: eb2fe2

It's probably for the best you got snapped out of that. Apologise and dust it off; say it got you rattled that's all.

Also might want to double check your surroundings, make sure you've not walked too far off track or anything like that.
>>
No. 898447 ID: d887c0

Is that the murder freak?!
>>
No. 898477 ID: 8031fe

Ayy I'm p sure Sup started to take off because ptsd, so what's behind her is most likely Nelson. Especially given that they were at the entrance of Testing, rather than far enough in that we'd be seeing the figure that far behind her.

>Vent to Nelson, this shit is fucked.
>>
No. 898493 ID: dbf422

>>898432
Go back. Do something. Be better.
>>
No. 898506 ID: e7848c

Clear the clouds, Sup. Check your surroundings. Stay grounded.
>>
No. 899062 ID: 15a025

Don't look behind. Just keep going and tell the others they might want to hurry up.
>>
No. 900470 ID: 53b212
File 153610653879.png - (16.87KB , 550x550 , 204.png )
900470

You whip around behind you, your heart skipping a beat before you realize it’s just Nelson. You start to apologize and all you can do is keep looking back, trailing off. This is wrong, you can’t just…
>>
No. 900471 ID: 53b212
File 153610655057.png - (16.33KB , 550x550 , 205.png )
900471

You have to do something. You have to be better.

SUPLEX: Fuck this.
>>
No. 900472 ID: 53b212
File 153610656796.png - (16.15KB , 550x550 , 206.png )
900472

NELSON: What? S-sup?

You shove past him, the rest of your party stopping in confusion.
Chance silently hands over his keycard as you pass, with only a firm look of approval on his face.
>>
No. 900473 ID: 53b212
File 153610658468.png - (15.71KB , 550x550 , 207.png )
900473

You fumble with the card reader, your nerves high as the door unlocks.
>>
No. 900474 ID: 53b212
File 153610659891.png - (55.97KB , 550x550 , 208.png )
900474

Your sibling looks up at you, wide eyed and surprised. They don’t move as you slowly sit down by their side, waiting for you to come to a full stop before letting out a small, inquisitive mewl, almost as if to ask why you came back.
>>
No. 900475 ID: e17f9c

can they talk? ask them what they want if so.

if they can't communicate, you know what to do. Try to make it painless.

have you ever sung before? sing to them as they go. it would be nice for them to go out with something peaceful.
>>
No. 900479 ID: b1b4f3

Ask how you can fix them. Pulling the tubes sounds like it'd kill them.
>>
No. 900480 ID: 4d436a

>>900475
>>
No. 900482 ID: 70df1e

if the tubes aren't connected to the floor, maybe we can pick them up and take them with us? maybe we can find some way to help them.

if not
>>900475
>>
No. 900484 ID: 57e21a

Put one hand on their arm to pull them up. Put another on their neck. Be gentle. Tell them they can come with you or stop suffering. Let them decide which. Even if they can't speak, they can move their arm to one of yours.
>>
No. 900485 ID: 56de26

>>900484
This. Let them choose.
>>
No. 900547 ID: b38f01

"Mercy."
What do they want?
>>
No. 901915 ID: 4b3d11

If they can't speak, ask Vivi if there's any way to see what they're thinking so you can help.
>>
No. 902223 ID: 53b212
File 153731072204.png - (51.46KB , 550x550 , 209.png )
902223

SUPLEX: Hey...I’m just…
SUPLEX: Here to help.

SUPLEX: Can you talk?
They shake their head, just enough to indicate a ‘no.’

SUPLEX: Those tubes...will pulling them kill you?
A small nod.

They tilt their head back to maintain eye contact as you sit next to them, and allows you to bring them into your lap. They feel so thin and brittle, like this, but it’d make this next part easier.

You place one hand on their arm, and one hand on their neck, applying just a bit of pressure.

SUPLEX: We’re getting out of this place.
SUPLEX: I want to give you the option to come out too, but...it wouldn’t be easy. You’d have to suffer a hell of a lot to do it.
SUPLEX: Or...I can give you mercy, if that’s what you want more.
SUPLEX: I’ll make it quick. I promise.
SUPLEX: Just...pick a hand.

They take the offer in, thinking hard about it.

After what feels like an eternity, they press their neck into your hand, their gaze the most determined you’ve seen out of anyone here.

You’re not sure why your hand is shaking.
>>
No. 902229 ID: d887c0

>>902223
Release them from this Hell. Suplex's and her friends' escape lies elsewhere, but she can be the way out for this unfortunate creature.
>>
No. 902236 ID: 90f3c0

There's nothing else you can do to help, put them our of their misery.
>>
No. 902237 ID: af928d

>>902229
Breath calmly Suplex. It'll be over quickly, and this choice is their's to make.
Just make sure to walk back to the group and get some support from Chance and Nelson.
>>
No. 902238 ID: ad9a26

You're doing the right thing. No matter how awful this feels, you know if you hadn't stopped you'd always feel guilty. Don't question that.
>>
No. 902247 ID: eb2fe2

Comply. It's the right thing to do. It's okay to be scared, but you gotta be strong for them; they can't do this on their own. Put them at ease at last.
>>
No. 902254 ID: 270774

keep your word.

proud of you, supe. nobody could have blamed you for walking away, but this is being better.
>>
No. 902287 ID: 0e2ebe

>>902254
Yeah, all of this. I knew you could do it.
>>
No. 902348 ID: b38f01

Make it the easiest thing you have to do. Just like pulling a door handle that's just barely stuck. It'll be okay.

You'll be okay.
>>
No. 902362 ID: 54d1d9

>>902223
They're already half-dead. There's not much point to trying to keep them alive.
>>
No. 902688 ID: 53b212
File 153757397189.png - (51.97KB , 550x550 , 210.png )
902688

This is the right thing to do. This is the right thing to do and they want this, this is what they need. They stare up at you still, seeing if you’ll do it- you take a deep breath, shaking harder.

You’re terrified, but maybe, this really is the better thing to do.
>>
No. 902689 ID: 53b212
File 153757398820.png - (80.61KB , 550x550 , 211.png )
902689

It’s quick.
>>
No. 902690 ID: 53b212
File 153757400988.png - (135.44KB , 550x550 , 212.png )
902690

You wish it always had been like this.
>>
No. 902691 ID: 53b212
File 153757402206.png - (81.80KB , 550x550 , 213.png )
902691

MOTHER: Was that really so difficult, 122?

You wish it had always been to save people.
>>
No. 902695 ID: b1b4f3

Tell her it would be easier if you had a reason.
>>
No. 902699 ID: 0e2ebe

Why would it be easy? They didn't deserve it. They didn't want it.
>>
No. 902703 ID: d887c0

>>902691
Would have been easier if it had been MOTHER'S neck instead.
>>
No. 902757 ID: b38f01

She doesn't deserve an answer.
>>
No. 903163 ID: 53b212
File 153792226781.png - (46.02KB , 550x550 , 214.png )
903163

You spit at her feet, getting a twisted sneer in response.
MC-122: They didn’t deserve it. They didn’t want this.
MC-122: It would have been a hell of a lot easier if it was your neck, Mother.
>>
No. 903164 ID: 53b212
File 153792228804.png - (53.74KB , 550x550 , 215.png )
903164

A distorted snarl build in her throat and her hands raises to hit you, trying not to close your eyes or show weakness as you brace for the impact-
>>
No. 903165 ID: 53b212
File 153792230397.png - (46.93KB , 550x550 , 216.png )
903165

???: Stop it.
???: She’s just a fucking kid.
>>
No. 903167 ID: de3b57

someone stepped in?
>>
No. 903169 ID: eb2fe2

*Thats* someone who's about to get fucking murdered. I would look away if I were you. Or fuck it, attempt to flee while she's distracted.
>>
No. 903200 ID: e7848c

>>903165
Stand. Stand and be stronger than her.
>>
No. 903223 ID: d887c0

>>903165
Oh ho! Who's this, then? A new player?
>>
No. 903390 ID: dbf422

What a fucking joke. Watching you murder against your will, but a backhand is too far. Like they actually care.
>>
No. 904014 ID: 53b212
File 153819471863.png - (95.38KB , 550x550 , 217.png )
904014

Your head is pounding and you can’t help but feel bitter anger mixed in with the initial confusion- oh, so she steps in now, not before you ate another fucking kid.

MOTHER: Step down, Chelsea.
MOTHER: If you do not know your place, I’d be more than happy to remind you.
CHELSEA: I won’t let you hurt any more ki-
MOTHER: Is that so?

Mother snatches her arm away from Chelsea and grabs her by the horns, lifting her up.

MOTHER: Hm.
MOTHER: Have you truly grown resilient after all?
MOTHER: It’s only taken you, what?
MOTHER: Four decades? Five?

She slams Chelsea into the concrete. You hear something snap, but she doesn’t cry out, dragging herself to her knees.
>>
No. 904015 ID: 53b212
File 153819473448.png - (113.45KB , 550x550 , 218.png )
904015

You start getting up yourself, slowly. This might be your shot. Mother kicks Chelsea in the chest, your bitterness replaced with fury as you get a proper view of her face- she’s an adult, but not by much.

Something hurts in your chest as you realize she only looks a few years older than you.

MOTHER: No, the time doesn’t matter.
MOTHER: It’s not as if a toy can really learn.
MOTHER: Besides...

Chelsea makes eye contact with you for a moment, a brief attempt at a smile flickering across her face before she makes a quick gesture universally understood to mean “get the fuck out of here.”

MOTHER: I suppose Spit enjoys a plaything that fights back.

NELSON: Suplex? You okay?
NELSON: We should probably get moving soon.
SUPLEX: Yeah, just...gimme a sec.
>>
No. 904020 ID: b1b4f3

>>904015
Chelsea must be used to this. Just get away.
>>
No. 904021 ID: d887c0

>>904015
>Spit
Man, that makes way too much fucking sense. It figures that she'd be the one backing a place this twisted. What's she after? Super soldiers? Sturdier playthings? Who can tell with that sicko?
As tempting as it was for Past!Suplex to attack her mother, I'd suggest she make her escape while she has the chance. The same thing goes for the Suplex of the present.
>>
No. 904026 ID: abcf03

Suplex now is not the time to hesitate or get stuck, there's a kid in the present who needs you. Past you and present you need to move
>>
No. 904047 ID: dbf422

You gotta go. Things will only be worse for her if you stay. If she's really alright, she deserves that attempt.
>>
No. 904048 ID: b38f01

Real strength is knowing when not to fight. Move.
>>
No. 904098 ID: 4a8fd8

Move. Safety first.
>>
No. 904109 ID: 91ee5f

Oh, shit. I think the person we just mercy killed was Chelsea! Don’t they look kinda similar: >>900474 , >>904015 ?

>>904048
This is so true. Let’s leave.
>>
No. 904161 ID: a9ca0b

>>904109
I.. disagree. The only recognizable thing about the poor mutilated Karacel we just mercy killed is the collar they were wearing and and almost all of the test subjects have them, Suplex included.

We shouldn't assume that it's Chelsea we just offed yet, not until we get information otherwise.
>>
No. 904175 ID: 91ee5f

>>904161
I wasn’t looking at the collar, I was looking at the horns.

And I think it might be Chelsea because she could’ve been in this room ever since that one day and she’s been mutilated so much, it’s really difficult to recognize her.
>>
No. 905283 ID: 53b212
File 153880405152.png - (85.10KB , 550x550 , 219.png )
905283

MOTHER: You’re a disgrace to our position.
MOTHER: An absolute waste of time and air.
MOTHER: But, it’s really no wonder that Spit keeps you around.

You start scooting back, trying to be as quiet as possible as your mother’s attention is occupied. She brings her heel down on Chelsea’s head, cracking her nose against the floor.

MOTHER: You’re her perfect little tramp.
>>
No. 905284 ID: 53b212
File 153880407177.png - (80.92KB , 550x550 , 220.png )
905284

Her mouth splits all the way down, only catching a glimpse of it before you start running. She doesn’t even seem to notice, completely focused on berating the one person who stepped in to help you.

MOTHER: Easy to mangle,
MOTHER: You’re just her type.
MOTHER: You should be HAPPY to be with her.
MOTHER: It’s not like you have any chance of getting anything better- just look at you…

SUPLEX: Let’s get moving.

You start walking with Nelson, returning back to your party. You don’t feel the time pass correctly, everything seems surreal and distorted- you can’t even tell how long you’ve been walking, only focusing on the repetitive steps forward towards your goal.

>>
No. 905285 ID: 53b212
File 153880410121.png - (44.60KB , 550x550 , 221.png )
905285

Your mother’s voice fades into the background, still there but less overwhelming. You catch only snippets now, audible but fading in and out of clarity.

MOTHER: Such a hopeless creature is doomed to die alone...

NELSON: You did the right thing, Sup.
NELSON: A potentially risky thing, but the right thing.
SUPLEX: ...yeah.

MOTHER: Don’t you DARE ignore me-

NELSON: Are...are you sure you’re alright?
SUPLEX: I’m fine.
NELSON: You don’t seem alright-
DWAYNE: You guys gonna lag behind and get your asses killed, or what?
DWAYNE: Chance says he knows the way from here.
DWAYNE: Not much further.
>>
No. 905324 ID: d887c0

Just bad memories. That or Mother is fucking with your head somehow. Probably just bad memories, though.
>>
No. 905328 ID: 302ed0

PTSD sucks but you'll be there, no time to worry right now. You're present.
>>
No. 905390 ID: 4a8fd8

Are you ok? Check your sanity, body, everything.
>>
No. 905826 ID: b38f01

>>905285
Focus on what's right in front you. Stay in the now.
>>
No. 905827 ID: b1b4f3

Tell Nelson it's just bad memories. You know you did the right thing here.

Also definitely catch up with the group.
>>
No. 906260 ID: 5fa661

Visualize ripping her jaw the rest of the way off. That'd shut her up.
>>
No. 907634 ID: 53b212
File 154001867548.png - (19.82KB , 550x550 , 222.png )
907634

Your hands are trembling, but just the hands, and not nearly as bad as it was in Intake. Your head hurts, and you can still hear-

-the sounds of someone screaming, maybe you, maybe-

-shit that happened years ago and doesn’t matter anymore. Never did.

SUPLEX: Just...bad memories rearing up again.

Nelson immediately pales, and you cut him off before he can start worrying his head off.

SUPLEX: It’s not as bad as last time, so don’t freak out, alright?
SUPLEX: I did the right thing.
SUPLEX: I saved somebody.
SUPLEX: That matters more than whatever my stupid head’s cooking up.

He nods, knowing he's not gonna get much out of you for now. Smart guy.
You turn your attention back to walking, shutting up the voices screaming in your head by picturing fighting back against her, playing out gruesome situations where you fight Anya and win.

It’s not much, but it helps.
>>
No. 907635 ID: 53b212
File 154001871429.png - (19.07KB , 550x550 , 223.png )
907635

DWAYNE: We’re here.

Chance hesitates. The door they reached was clearly cleaner than the others, and completely solid, no way to look inside.

CHANCE: Mel, is this the place?
MELANIE: Mhm!
MELANIE: My mom says it’s secret, so you can’t tell anyone else, okay?
CHANCE: ...Well now it's our secret, too. We won't tell anybody.

Chance makes a gesture of zipping his lips. Melanie copies him and smiles.

You have no idea what’s inside, and from the sound of it, it could get nasty.

You’re gonna need a plan.
>>
No. 907637 ID: 8031fe

Melanie at the back.
Kiter at the front. Anyone who is fast enough to scout and dodge whatever we're up against, and lead it back to the waiting group fits this.
The main cluster of the group will be ready with shock sticks.

Otherwise? Search, gather supplies or info, and get past here like all the other places. Barricade the entry behind us if possible
>>
No. 907665 ID: d887c0

>>907635
Sup up front.
Chance, Dwayne, and Nelson is the middle.
Melanie at the rear.
Move slowly and carefully.
No engagements.
If you see someone, hide.
If someone sees you, run.
Protect Melanie at all costs.
>>
No. 907670 ID: 83bf07

>>907635
We have to keep Mel out of danger as much as possible. We might need to keep her close to the door. We have no support anymore so we have to be careful. Make a formation around Mel with Sup at the center. Keep forward in formation.
>>
No. 907682 ID: 53b212

>>907679
can we please not comment on the weight of child characters
>>
No. 907699 ID: 15a025

>>907665
Seconding this
>>
No. 907706 ID: 1872dc

>>907670
Sounds good, Mel with Sup and them both at the center. Less suspicious people in the front.

>>907682
Or like, shame characters about their appearance ever?
>>
No. 908332 ID: 4a8fd8

Look out for each other! You're already bloody and shit, keep each other alive, ya bloody pingas!
>>
No. 910667 ID: 53b212
File 154217799284.png - (16.19KB , 550x550 , 224.png )
910667

You organize swiftly, keeping Nelson and Dwayne up front. They’ve got the shock sticks after all, and the ability to kill in one shot is an advantage you’d be a fool not to take. Chance is talking to Melanie again, and while it’s too quiet to catch, you get the feeling it’s another pep talk.

Thank god someone’s good with kids, you guess.

Just as you start exhaling in relief over not having to watch Melanie, you feel a polite tug on your tail.

MELANIE: Chance says I’ll be behind you and him, where it’s safe...you’ll be safe too, right?
SUPLEX: ...yeah. I’ll be safe.
SUPLEX: Chance and I are gonna take the middle, close enough so that if you’re in danger-
MELANIE: But...what if you get hurt?
SUPLEX: We’re...grown-ups.
SUPLEX: Tough ones. You don’t have to worry about that.
SUPLEX: We’ll be right ahead of you, and, uh…
>>
No. 910668 ID: 53b212
File 154217800929.png - (16.99KB , 550x550 , 225.png )
910668

You twitch your tail a bit, an idea coming to mind.
SUPLEX: If shi- if stuff gets rough out there, you hug my tail.

She looks up at you curiously for a moment, then to your tail. Tentatively, she reaches out, before holding it close to her. You lift her up off the ground with a quick wrapping motion.

SUPLEX: Tada. Safe and sound.

Melanie’s giggling, and you catch yourself smiling in spite of the situation at hand. You can feel Chance’s own smile without even looking.
You quickly let the kid down and try to focus on the door in front of you- watching Dwayne slide an ID card into the slot.
>>
No. 910669 ID: 53b212
File 154217802935.png - (18.73KB , 550x550 , 226.png )
910669

It’s just a room, but a fairly large one...with zero cover. Nelson swears under his breath as he pushes you and Chance back into the hallway, Dwayne flattening himself to the wall. From the brief look you got inside, there are two chambers at the far end, both guarded-

And just your luck, one of the guards starts heading toward the open doorway, oblivious to your presence.

????: Hello?
????: Don’t you know there’s a lockdown going on?
????: No one’s supposed to be here, especially not now…
>>
No. 910670 ID: 53b212
File 154217804287.png - (17.30KB , 550x550 , 227.png )
910670

They’re approaching fast.
>>
No. 910673 ID: fbc0a3

The order you were in would be great for a combat situation but you've lucked into some stealth. Swap positions with Dwayne, leaving Melanie in the middle. Then pull the guard around the corner and force them into a headlock. Keep them from saying anything, pressure on the throat, the silence will hopefully draw anyone else into range. Try to be non-lethal, because a dead guard is bad cover if you need it.
>>
No. 910805 ID: 787c3d

I like the idea of Suplex leading a charge with Nelson and Dwayne closely behind, tackle the closest enemy and keep moving with him as a meat shield until reach the second. This plan depend on her being able to endure their attacks until they can be reliable shocked.
>>
No. 910807 ID: f99cdc

>>910670
Growl at them while staying out of sight.
>>
No. 910855 ID: 91ee5f

>>910670
It’s probably just the angle of the picture, but it looks like the other guard is either sitting on the ground in front of that door or they’ve been knocked out.

>>910805
That could work.

We could also pick up the first guard and throw them at the second guard.
>>
No. 910864 ID: 83bf07

Someone turn Mel around. She shouldn't see what's about to go down. Grabbing that guard as soon as he steps through the door and silencing him.
>>
No. 911045 ID: 15a025

Grab the guard and try to keep them silent. Maybe knock them out. The guard should get suspicious after enough time and check things out themselves.

If we can get him too, we might be in the clear!
>>
No. 915897 ID: 53b212
File 154639490363.png - (17.80KB , 550x550 , 228.png )
915897

You gently pull Melanie up into the middle, shaking your head when she tries to speak up. She falls silent with a nod, pressing herself against the wall and reaching for Chance’s hand. The dog takes it without a word, pulling her close to him, and sending a nervous glance in your direction.
>>
No. 915898 ID: 53b212
File 154639493362.png - (18.38KB , 550x550 , 229.png )
915898

You scoot past Nelson and Dwayne, the two of them wordlessly allowing you forward. The guard’s claws on tile are the only indicator of where he is, and you’re holding your breath by the time he gets just close enough to pull into a headlock, squeezing his throat as close as you can without going lethal.

It’s more difficult than you’d like, used to outright strangling or snapping...a fact that you shove away, to be bothered by later.
>>
No. 915899 ID: 53b212
File 154639499862.png - (16.74KB , 550x550 , 230.png )
915899

The moments pass way too slowly, sweat starting to drip down your face. The other guard doesn’t move, silent for a solid minute before calling out, his voice wracked with nerves and shaking.

???? (2): Please…If you’re going to do something, do it quickly.
???? (2): I can’t get up, and...and I know what’s coming for us.
???? (2): He does too.

The guard you’re holding nods as well as he can, only tearing up a little as he looks up at you with a resigned expression.

???? (2): Let me at least see your faces.
???? (2): Maybe it’s just, a dumb thing, but...please.
???? (2): I want to see who’s going to do me in.
>>
No. 915900 ID: b1b4f3

>>915899
Tell them if they're not going to fight they don't need to die. We're passing through.

Hmm, wish we had some rope.
>>
No. 915908 ID: d887c0

>>915899
If they do EXACTLY as you say, they may just live to see tomorrow. You're aiming to escape from this place, and you could use all the help you can get.
>>
No. 915910 ID: 91ee5f

>>915899
The kids are in those 2 chambers, right? We’re only here for them and we’re going to take them with us.
>>
No. 915924 ID: 83bf07

It doesn't need to be like this. Turn the corner with the guard in hand. There don't be death if we can avoid it. Bargain passage for silence and their lives.
>>
No. 915929 ID: edfbdc

We're not monsters. Not anymore. If you can swear to be silent and to let us pass, you've already been through the worst of this encounter.
>>
No. 915937 ID: e3e99e

>>915899
"Counter offer: You're not a threat, but you could be a waste of time. You don't waste our time, we don't waste you.
Kick your weapons over here, lay down with your hands on your head, and stay out of our way, and we will ignore you."
>>
No. 915975 ID: a9af05

We're only here to save the kids. Don't get in the way and you get to live.
>>
No. 915995 ID: 237e32

>>915899
At their current state, I really don't think these guards are that much of a threat. Ask them to drop their weapons, of course, all of their weapons, but also let them in on what the situation is. That if they want to leave this shoddy place, that this might be their only chance. And that we could use any help they could offer us, in exchange of their safety. Maybe see if we can help out the guy who can't move?
>>
No. 916531 ID: 53b212
File 154681962776.png - (13.94KB , 550x550 , 231.png )
916531

SUPLEX: We’re not here to fight you. We just want to get the kids and go, and as long as you keep your mouths shut and stay the hell out of our way, we got no plans to hurt you.
???? (2): The kids? Like, the Artag triplets?
SUPLEX: Already got one of ‘em.
???? (2): Melanie, then...
???? (2): ...is she safe?
SUPLEX: Yeah. We’re getting her out, and the others too.
SUPLEX: Drop your weapons, kick ‘em over.
???? (2): Ha….I, ah...I can’t.
SUPLEX: Don’t waste our time.
???? (2): I already dropped my shit when my leg got hurt, broke it. Even if I had it, it’s useless junk now.

Nelson nods, gesturing to his own shock stick with a thumbs up.
NELSON: they break easy

SUPLEX: Ffffine. Make the wrong move, and you’re both dead.
>>
No. 916532 ID: 53b212
File 154681964720.png - (25.05KB , 550x550 , 232.png )
916532

You start turning the corner with the guard in your arms, ears flattening against your head at the amount of blood splatter inside.

The guard on the floor’s leg is mangled, a massive chunk bitten out. His shaking body’s just barely propped against the door to a test chamber, chest heaving.

???? (2): Haha...hi, there…
???? (2): ….
???? (2): Well, a look was all I requested…
???? (2): Go ahead.

You are pretty fucking sure this man’s going to die.
>>
No. 916536 ID: 7ed102

It will be easier to put this one out of his misery. Hes not going to leave, just end it so he doesn't suffer.
>>
No. 916537 ID: 83bf07

...we can give you a quick release or leave it to chance, if that's what you want. We're leaving either way.
>>
No. 916538 ID: b1b4f3

>>916532
Ask what happened.
>>
No. 916547 ID: edfbdc

This isn't the same as your sibling. They needed your help to even know they could be allowed to pass on. This guy can ask if he really wants to, and he should probably ask his friend, first.

Just cover the kid's eyes, ask what happened, and move past him.
>>
No. 916551 ID: 91ee5f

>>916532
Tell the others to cover Melanie‘s eyes so she doesn’t see this.

Ask him what happened and he can explain while the others open the other kids’ cells.

Do not ask if he wants you to kill him to put him out of his misery! Especially with the children nearby!
>>
No. 916566 ID: 2202fb

Its just a leg wound. We could probably tourniquet his leg and take him with us if he wanted (tourniquet him at the very least).
>>
No. 916589 ID: f3c317

>I know this is hard but can you tell us what happened?
>(I'm not sure how to say it Suplex, but, I feel like they're going to need to decide whether they want us to do what we did for the sibling, or if they'd rather wait for what's coming)
>Ask if they're coworker wants to stay behind with them or come with us.
>>
No. 916660 ID: 4c908d

>>916566
An entire chunk of his foreleg is missing flesh, muscle and is bleeding out. That's his fucking exposed tibia bone in there.

You can't tie off a wound like that. Just end him quick. He'd only slow everyone down.
>>
No. 916693 ID: e3e99e

>>916532
Are you fucking kidding?
He's not showings signs of going into shock. He's not only conscious, but lucid and able to follow complex trains of thought.
He's not even bleeding that badly!
Yeah, he's missing a pound of flesh or two, but even if all you do is provide basic first aid he stands a pretty good chance of keeping the leg and eventually regaining quite a bit of function in it.
Staunch the bleeding, bandage it up, and get him out of here. He wants to protect Melanie, and he doesn't need full mobility to shove himself between her and danger.
Attempting to save him also further establishes for Melanie that we have mercy and compassion, which would make her trust us more.

Do you need an explanation on how to sanitize and field-dress a wound?
>>
No. 916800 ID: 9bb4d2

>>916693
>>916566
Seconding these.
>>
No. 916806 ID: 2202fb

>>916660
Tie it at the knee or hip. He will almost certainly lose half of his leg at the very least.
>>
No. 916811 ID: becba8

>>916660
>exposed tibia bone

I think that is the middle bone of his phalanges.

Ask if he's been modified in a way that allow him to endure the pain of such severe wound. And what caused it, that would be far more useful to know.
>>
No. 916871 ID: 53b212
File 154701778858.png - (17.87KB , 550x550 , 233.png )
916871

SUPLEX: Cover Mel’s eyes and hang back, Chance. Nelson, Dwayne, you come and help me with this.

Dwayne keeps close to you as you approach the guard. Nelson heads slowly to mess with the other chamber, looking back over his shoulder occasionally.

SUPLEX: We’re just passing through, and we don’t want to kill anymore than we have to...or what’s requested, I guess.
SUPLEX: Do you want us to make it quick for you-
DWAYNE: For the love of- Suplex, just because the man’s got a bad leg doesn’t mean he’s going to die.
SUPLEX: Bad leg?! There’s a whole chunk gone!
DWAYNE: I’ve seen guards live through far worse.

Dwayne goes to the man’s side, taking a look at the wound and grimacing.

DWAYNE: Nasty bite, though.
???? (2): It’s okay, it’s...it’s okay.
SUPLEX: Do we just...patch him up, then?
DWAYNE: Yeah, best we can.
>>
No. 916872 ID: 53b212
File 154701780559.png - (15.21KB , 550x550 , 234.png )
916872

Dwayne starts to get up, stopping as the guard weakly grabs at his arm.

???? (2): Don’t w-waste your time.
???? (2): You can bandage...bandage me up, but it’s not going to do much.

He takes a deep breath.

???? (2): You started the mutiny, didn’t you?

He doesn’t wait for an answer.

???? (2): It’s good, that someone fffffinally did.
???? (2): But I don’t, I don’t deserve it, see?
???? (2): That’s why I got this bite in the first p-place.

SUPLEX: ...what do you mean?
???? (2): Kid just got scared, is all, haha…
???? (2): Anybody’d lash out, after what I had to do.
???? (2): Had to, had to do it. It’s my job, you know? Just my job. Just, just...
>>
No. 916873 ID: 53b212
File 154701783357.png - (13.68KB , 550x550 , 235.png )
916873

He hangs his head.

???? (2): Just let that coming wave get me.
SUPLEX: I-
???? (2): You have...you have a job to do too, yeah?
>>
No. 916874 ID: 53b212
File 154701785526.png - (17.03KB , 550x550 , 236.png )
916874

Nelson yelps from the other test chamber almost immediately after stepping inside, scrambling out the door and almost falling backwards.

The guard smiles, not a happy one in the slightest.

???? (2): M-make sure to watch the teeth.
>>
No. 916875 ID: d887c0

Nelson! Is he okay?
>>
No. 916876 ID: b1b4f3

Melanie should be the one to approach the kids! They're dangerous, don't forget that!
>>
No. 916878 ID: b30f10

mel should approach bc they’ll feel safer w her, not bc they’re dangerous. they’re *kids* who have been hurt too much - don’t act like they’re a threat ;;
>>
No. 916881 ID: 91ee5f

>>916874
If we’re gonna bring Melanie in to calm down the other 2 kids, then we should at least cover up the guard’s leg, so she doesn’t see the giant chunk that’s missing.

Also, Suplex, I think it’s safe for you to let go of the other guard you’ve been holding onto this entire time. I don’t think he’s anymore of a threat than the other guy.
>>
No. 916893 ID: 158da5

>>916873
Yeah and it was Suplex's "job" to kill mindlessly, hell everyone here had jobs or orders to commit or perpetuate evil, and they've ALL turned against that. Until you're dead you have a chance to do something right.

>>916878
Exactly.
>>
No. 916927 ID: e7848c

Make sure Nelson is okay. Gather everyone up but keep someone on watch duty for the door. Let's see if we can talk those kids into not attacking on sight.
>>
No. 916957 ID: 2d9a3d

Well, we were a dangerous kid too.

Go on, let the others help here, go secure the kiddos.
>>
No. 916958 ID: b1b4f3

>>916878
Just because they're kids doesn't mean we shouldn't respect their strength.
>>
No. 916965 ID: 9bb4d2

>>916872
Hey, all of us have done stuff we regret in this hellhole. That doesn't mean you don't deserve help, and it certainly doesn't mean you can't change.
The only person here that doesn't deserve help is Anya.
>>
No. 916969 ID: 2202fb

Grab this guy and smash him into the wall; enough to hurt, but no permanent damage. Ask him what the fucking hell he did.
>>
No. 916992 ID: 91ee5f

>>916969
Not in front of the children. We’re trying to calm them down so that they’ll come with us.
>>
No. 917004 ID: e3e99e

>>916874
"Counter-offer: We patch you up, and you can make up for the shit you've done by fighting the monsters who run this place."
>>
No. 917073 ID: 3ab33d

>>917004
I doubt we can bring him and the children, they probably don't want to be around him, considering what he had to do. I'm guessing he was assigned to conduct the more brutal experimentation.
>>
No. 917157 ID: 2202fb

>>916992
From the most recent update, i dont know how much children is left (phrasing is intentional). Gross children really doesnt matter when you cant take 5/8 children and 1/2 children and combine them to get 1 children with remainder.
>>
No. 917160 ID: 91ee5f

>>917157
He’s talking about thing he did in the past, not something he did right now.

There’s still 2 children that we’ve gotta convince to come with us.

Why do you suddenly think the children are dead?
>>
No. 917270 ID: 53b212
File 154726145219.png - (32.72KB , 550x550 , 237.png )
917270

You drop the first guard straight onto the floor and run to Nelson’s side, exhaling only when you realize he’s unharmed- but very, very distressed. He doesn’t say a single word, just stares ahead, unable to blink.

The child inside the chamber coughs, a wet, struggling sound. Your eyes adjust to the dark interior and the bottom of your stomach drops out, unable to stop yourself from taking a few steps towards her.

Her breath is labored, and just one look tells you that the kid is sick, has been for hours. Her dress is stained with something black and horrible, the same kind of substance you saw in Storage, kept amidst the meat lockers. The same kind of substance you’ve seen spilling out of some siblings you were forced to fight, sickeningly sweet and dark as pitch.
>>
No. 917271 ID: 53b212
File 154726146917.png - (21.96KB , 550x550 , 238.png )
917271

Melanie races forward, wrapping her sister up in a tight squeeze.

MELANIE: Maes!!

Maes looks like she’ll be sick again for a moment, but calms as soon as she registers who’s holding her.

MAES: ...Melly, is that you?
MAES: It hurts...
MELANIE: I’m here! I’m here, I’m here…
>>
No. 917272 ID: 53b212
File 154726149132.png - (15.50KB , 550x550 , 239.png )
917272

Melanie lets her sister go, still holding tight onto her hand and watching with a worried expression. Maes looks up at you, glazed over eyes moving from person to person.

MAES: Who are they?
MAES: Where’s our mom?
MAES: ...did I do it wrong, again?
MAES: I tried so hard, I promise…
>>
No. 917273 ID: 53b212
File 154726151522.png - (17.60KB , 550x550 , 240.png )
917273

You back away from the kids, not even trying to hold the anger back as you lift up the second guard just enough to slam his head into the wall, the other flinching.

SUPLEX: Just your fucking job, huh?
SUPLEX: What the fuck did you do to her?!
SUPLEX: They’re...they’re just kids!

He says nothing, not even when you slam his head again. It takes a few moments before the first guard finally speaks up, his voice dazed.

???? (1): T-Toxins.
SUPLEX: Wh-
???? (1): Today was toxin testing.
???? (1): She’s digested everything up until now without trouble, no matter what it is.
???? (2): Turns out, even little bits of toxic waste, those, those are fine.
???? (2): Bigger doses, though...
???? (2): They finally found out how much makes her sick.

The second guard lets his head loll onto his shoulder, the nervous smile back again. The first remains silent, avoiding eye contact like his life depended on it.

???? (2): There’s nothing here worth sparing anymore.
>>
No. 917275 ID: b1b4f3

>>917273
...ask what we'll find behind the other door. We need to be prepared.
>>
No. 917276 ID: 7e9c89

...i’d agree. he isn’t going to fight, so we can leave him or kill him. its - i almost want to leave it up to maes, but that’s... unfair to her i think. she’s still just a kid, but. i don’t know
>>
No. 917277 ID: b1b4f3

Probably shouldn't murder anyone in front of the kids. They need to know they're in good hands.
>>
No. 917279 ID: 91ee5f

>>917273
Hey, Suplex, I know you’re angry and you have every right to be angry, but watch your fucking language in front of the children!

Ask them what they did to the other child.
>>
No. 917281 ID: 158da5

>>917279
Let the kids learn swears.

>>917272
You're all here to help. And Maes has never done anything wrong, it was "mother" that failed her.

>>917273
Tell him to fix it, maybe hurt his wound to motivate him, and shut him up if he isn't useful. Then force the other one to give us something actually useful even if it's a fucking guess.
>>
No. 917326 ID: ab9cfc

patch them up, help them out, get them to give you whatever info they can

they may be determined to die but if they want to actually stop this, if they want to take responsibility and stop being cowards, they'll come with you. if you get out they can live with what they've done and help stop it from happening again.

also check on maes obvs. are they okay?

also also how is maes pronounced
>>
No. 917327 ID: 83bf07

Everyone did evil here. They are no different. Press them for a cure.
>>
No. 917332 ID: 53b212

>>917326
it's pronounced "my-ehs" because apparently kid me did not know how the fuck the name is usually pronounced when i made her
>>
No. 917572 ID: 7d9d06

You keep saying these are just kids, but these are Mother's favorites, the most promising candidates for her heir. The heir Mother seeks must be as much of a badass motherfucker as she is, so these... kids...

If you take Maes with you, just be very careful that her extreme hunger cravings don't include... you. You're familiar enough with hunger cravings, I'm sure. Well, hers might be uh... more.

Oh, speaking of those files, Maes's file says she can unhinge her jaw, but your file doesn't say you can unhinge your jaw at all. Looks like they don't know everything you're capable of. You might be able to surprise them if you can do stuff that's not in your file.

Huh, rows of teeth, too. Now that I look at it, Maes is kind of like a mini you!
>>
No. 917616 ID: 2202fb

Rather than worry about the ethics here, lets try to be a bit more pragmatic regarding the whole thing. Find out where an antidote is. If there isn't one, try to find out the properties of this stuff. We have options like drinking water, milk, milk of magnesia, eating activated charcoal, and to induce vomiting.
>>
No. 917913 ID: 53b212
File 154760810114.png - (15.42KB , 550x550 , 241.png )
917913

You let the guard go after one more quick slam, figuring it’d be for good measure. He collapses, and you could care less. Seeing how Maes was doing was a higher priority than whatever the hell this jackass wanted.

Approaching the kids fills you up with nerves all over again, Maes doing no better than earlier.

SUPLEX: Hey, uh…
MELANIE: This is Suplex! She’s really, really nice.
MELANIE: She’s like...a new big sister to me!! So I’m sure she’ll be yours too!

You try not to look as surprised as you feel. Warm and fuzzy is not a familiar feeling, but not a bad one either. More to think about later.

MAES: Oh...okay….
MAES: Hi, then...I’m-
SUPLEX: It’s okay. I know who you are, Maes, right?


She nods, swallowing hard.

MAES: S-sorry. I’m trying. I promise.
MAES: I really, really promise…

The glazed look to her eyes returns, and the rage building in your stomach returns with full force.

SUPLEX: Watch your sister, Melanie.
SUPLEX: I have to go talk to those other guys. See what I can get.
CHANCE: I’ll stay with them.
CHANCE: I could use Mel’s help clueing Maes in, anyway.
Melanie smiles wide, only fading when Maes starts hacking up sludge again.
>>
No. 917914 ID: 53b212
File 154760816156.png - (12.97KB , 550x550 , 242.png )
917914

You storm back to the guards, snarling.

SUPLEX: Fix it.
???? (2): I can’t-
SUPLEX: Then tell us how we can!
SUPLEX: She hasn’t done anything wrong, and she needs our help.
SUPLEX: Hate what you had to do that much? Then make yourselves useful, or stay out of our way while we handle it ourselves.


The second guard doesn’t respond, not a single word or gesture. You turn to the first one, watching as he struggled to his feet.

SUPLEX: There has to be something you can do. Something you can give us.
???? (1): Th-the dosage we gave her would be way beyond lethal to anyone else.
???? (1): There’s nothing to be done. Just letting it pass through her system and recording how long it takes, how severe the reactions are...that was our assignment.
???? (1): Her condition’s been improving, it was worse earlier.
???? (1): We legitimately can’t give you anything to help, but she’s not going to die.
???? (1): Dr. Artag makes sure of it. Very specific dosages, steady increments, plenty of controls...
???? (1): It’s taken a lot of trials to get to this point, and probably the last one we’d be doing.
???? (1): ...probably.

He goes silent, shuffling his feet.

???? (1): I’m sorry. It’s all I can tell you.
???? (2): That’s not even the problem kid, h-haha.
???? (2): It’s the other one you have to look out for.
>>
No. 917915 ID: 53b212
File 154760817863.png - (12.24KB , 550x550 , 243.png )
917915

???? (1): I’m loathe to agree, but...MC-001 here is well behaved.
???? (1): She’s not the one who bit him.
???? (1): The tests we’ve been running should keep MC-003 sedated enough, but not for long.
???? (2): Drainage tests are a bitch, b-both for the kid and for us. I can’t blame anybody for that reaction, can’t blame at all there...
SUPLEX: The fu-
You remember there are kids here, and hold back on swearing. Even if you really want to.
SUPLEX: ...what’s a drainage test?
???? (1): MC-003 can’t form clots correctly, not without help.
???? (1): None of the triplets have blood per se, but MC-003 will bleed out until patched up. Not to the point of death, the sludge regenerates too quickly for that…

He grimaces, still in pain from the rough treatment you gave him.

???? (1): We can give you some bandages to help...without them you’ll have problems.
>>
No. 917917 ID: 7e9c89

take the bandages. is there any more info we need to press him for? i’m not.. i don’t think we need to worry about the kids hurting us if we’re careful and honest w/ them, so our priority has to be helping them asap
>>
No. 917918 ID: 91ee5f

>>917913
>You try not to look as surprised as you feel. Warm and fuzzy is not a familiar feeling, but not a bad one either. More to think about later.
Yeah, these kids are definitely going to end up calling you Mama Suplex. Especially if you start acting like a better mother than their real mom, who is a gigantic bitch.

>>917915
>MC-003
His name is Mason! Get it right!
>>
No. 917920 ID: b1b4f3

>>917915
Sludge? Guess that's a symptom of his Horror infusion.
Well, first thing's first, ask how long the sedation lasts. We're going to have to get him out of that room and bandaged up before he can wake up enough to bite anyone, then figure out who can keep track of him when he's awake without getting bit.
How strong is he? Maybe we can just find a blanket or something and keep him bundled up? Depending on his disposition he may find it comforting.
>>
No. 917944 ID: 158da5

>>917918
Sister. Suplex didn't like the comparison to Mama last time, and Melanie said sister anyway.
I definitely agree about insisting about the names. No more emotional distance for them.

Take the bandages after that, then ask them for anything to watch out for with the sludge and general care, then get back to the kids with the "good" news. Then let's see Mason.
>>
No. 918084 ID: a9af05

>>917918
>His name is Mason! Get it right!
Say this!

>>917944
I'm pretty sure that mama thing was meant as a joke. Don't take it too seriously.
>>
No. 918085 ID: 0e2ebe

>>918084
Don't tell people how seriously to take something.
>>
No. 919404 ID: 53b212
File 154881179976.png - (17.90KB , 550x550 , 244.png )
919404

SUPLEX: His name is Mason, get it right.

Both guards stay quiet, only the first one muttering in response.

???? (1): don’t let the director hear you say that, though…

Something stirs in your chest that you can’t quite place at that, but you keep your priorities straight. For once.

SUPLEX: We’ll take the bandages.
SUPLEX: You got anything like a blanket, something we can use to clean him up and calm him down?
???? (2): Should be a t-towel somewhere.
???? (1): We aren’t supposed to use those-
???? (2): Get it.

The first guard nods and runs off to get the supplies- you make sure to follow him around, needing answers and figuring he’d be more help than the injured smartass.

SUPLEX: We need as much info as we can on him. How to care for him, how to fix him up, how strong he is…
???? (1): We just administer the tests unfortunately, we’re not caretakers.
???? (1): MC- Mason’s...very anxious. And very strong.

He swallows.

???? (1): Very, very strong. He’s injured a lot of guards, doctors…
???? (1): His tusks are what you look out for. They’re big, and they are sharp. He’s used them to injure himself before, which is another thing you have to look out for.
???? (1): He can and will hurt himself if it’ll help him get out of something, just as much if not more than hurting other people.
SUPLEX: How long will the sedation last?
???? (1): Ideally, it’ll be enough to calm him down, but I can’t guarantee that…
???? (1): Be careful.
???? (1): As for how to care for him...bandage up the drainage wounds, and let him rest a while.
SUPLEX: ...shit, we might not have time for that.
SUPLEX: Can we carry him?
???? (1): He doesn’t like that, and he’s heavy. Much bigger than the other two.
???? (1): But, if he trusts you enough, maybe...big maybe.
>>
No. 919405 ID: 53b212
File 154881181866.png - (18.76KB , 550x550 , 245.png )
919405

He hands you the bandages and a large, white towel.

???? (1): Again, I’m...sorry we can’t help more.
???? (1): Good luck.

You return to the testing chambers, standing outside of Mason’s.

SUPLEX: Chance, you good with this kid?
CHANCE: Mm, I’ve helped him out quite a bit...
CHANCE: I can do my best.
SUPLEX: Right. I’m gonna open the door, you’re gonna take him out of there and get him in this towel. Dwayne, Nelson, you’re on bandage duty.
NELSON: Someone should stay with the kids-
DWAYNE: I’ll do it. You got patching him up under control?
NELSON: I should. I’ll let you know if I need help.
SUPLEX: We ready?

Your party nods, getting into position as you haul open the door.
>>
No. 919408 ID: 53b212
File 154881189998.png - (28.67KB , 550x550 , 246.png )
919408

The difference between Mason and his sisters is immediately apparent, the feeling of hostility running chills down your spine. He’s dressed the same as the others, and you swallow as you realize just how the collars you’ve all been wearing work- he’s chained to the ground, links fitting perfectly into the middle segment.

Black sludge mats his fur, thick globules oozing out of evenly placed wounds on his arms and legs.

He doesn’t say a word, snarling and glaring as best as he could under the sedatives.

Everyone’s frozen, and you realize that you hate this godforsaken place, because there’s always something new. There’s always some new feeling that you have to deal with, and right now, something about this kid is scaring you all shitless.

Even with your own experiences, your own tortures, you have never felt so much hate.
>>
No. 919410 ID: b1b4f3

>>919408
Stick with the plan. Get Chance to snap out of it if you have to.
>>
No. 919414 ID: a9af05

>>919408
Would having his siblings talk to him help him calm down?
>>
No. 919428 ID: 3ed3c3

>>919408
He hates this place, and you hate this place. That's already a pretty solid connection. The only thing to be done now is to prove to him that you're allies. Being kind to him and his siblings is a good start, and patching him up and freeing him would certainly help.
>>
No. 919429 ID: f3ba68

quickly explain to him who we are and that we dont have much time, tell him youre an experiment too
>>
No. 919448 ID: e3e99e

>>919408
"This is a rescue, Mason. We're breaking out of here, and we've already rescued Melanie from their experiments.
I am going to free you, and if you'll let me then I'll do what I can to treat your injuries.
Do you want me to ask Melanie to come in here to talk to you so you can know I'm telling the truth?"
>>
No. 919449 ID: 158da5

Let Chance warm him up and then be very matter of fact with your plans.

Tell him you're freeing him and his sisters. This includes patching him up and leading you all out of here. If he'll let you, you can get him out of those chains and get him to some bandages.
>>
No. 919452 ID: 91ee5f

>>919408
My heart hurts just thinking about what this poor kid has gone through.

>>919410
>>919414
Both of these.
>>
No. 920231 ID: 53b212
File 154942981826.png - (22.29KB , 550x550 , 247.png )
920231

SUPLEX: Chance, could you-

Chance is already walking forward before you can even finish, Mason’s snarls growing quieter as he registers who it is.
You notice the moment that Chance realizes the state Mason is in. You can just barely see his muscles tensing, in worry and in anger that he doesn't show.

He kneels down beside Mason, going slow and easy so as not to startle him.

MASON: ...why are you here-
CHANCE: I’m here to get you out, okay? Get you someplace safe.
CHANCE: Do you trust me?
MASON: ….
MASON: Yeah.
CHANCE: Then you can trust them, too. They're some friends of mine, and Mel's.

He delicately unhooks the chains, holding out the towel for Mason to flop forward onto. The kid starts sniffling, no less angry than before. Chance wastes no time in scooping him up in a gentle hug.

CHANCE: Hey, hey...I'm here. I got you.
MASON: I hate it...I hate it so much, Chance…
CHANCE: I know. But I've got you.
CHANCE: We’re going to take you far, far away from all of this. You don't need to worry anymore.
Mason looks up slightly.
MASON: Promise?
CHANCE: Promise.
Chance gives him a warm smile.
>>
No. 920232 ID: 53b212
File 154942983565.png - (20.59KB , 550x550 , 248.png )
920232

Chance pulls him out of the chamber carefully, making sure to hold him close enough to support him, but not too tight as to aggravate his wounds or to make him feel all restricted.
Nelson and Dwayne hesitate, holding the bandages and watching Mason carefully as he growls.

CHANCE: Mason, it’s okay. They're friends, remember? Nobody's going to hurt you. I've got you.

Mason quiets down, albeit slow and reluctantly.

NELSON: H-hey, buddy, we’re just gonna bandage you up.
DWAYNE: Stop the bleeding and all.
NELSON: If it starts hurting, let us know. We’ll try to be gentle.
>>
No. 920234 ID: 53b212
File 154942986096.png - (20.17KB , 550x550 , 249.png )
920234

Chance sets the kid down, Mason reluctantly holding out his arms without a word and watching both of them with narrowed eyes. First touches warrant a warning growl, but he does his best to swallow it down and let them patch him up. His gaze slowly turns to you, and does not move.

MASON: ...you’re like us.
SUPLEX: Yeah. Yeah, I am.
MASON: Do they do this, to you too?
SUPLEX: …
SUPLEX: Not really the same things b-
MASON: Does it hurt?
SUPLEX: I-
MASON: How much?
SUPLEX: A lot. Hurts a lot.
MASON: Enough to want to hurt other people too?

You think back to how many skulls you’ve crushed in, how many siblings you’ve torn to pieces just to survive, to the guards you’ve devoured out of both survival and spite.

You remember the mixed feelings, the sickness over what you’ve done, and a twisted kind of satisfaction, of success.

You’d call it victory, but you knew better than that.
>>
No. 920235 ID: 53b212
File 154942987221.png - (38.76KB , 550x550 , 250.png )
920235

There is no winning here.
>>
No. 920236 ID: 53b212
File 154942988625.png - (21.13KB , 550x550 , 251.png )
920236

SUPLEX: All the time, kid.

This calms him a bit, looking less on edge. There’s a sense of understanding between you two, and he doesn’t flinch as you sit down to talk to him.

SUPLEX: My name’s Suplex. The guys patching you up are Dwayne and Nelson.
MASON: Are my sisters ok?
SUPLEX: Yeah, we got them safe. The plan is to take all of you out.
MASON: Where are we going?
SUPLEX: Outside-
MASON: Where?

Boy, this kid loves to interrupt.
>>
No. 920237 ID: b1b4f3

No time like the present to plan a bit further ahead. What places are there nearby that you hide? Possible organizations that would take you in? Obviously you're gonna have to ask the employees here since you don't know much about the outside world.
>>
No. 920238 ID: 158da5

Out. You don't know anything about outside, just that it has to be better than inside. And getting out is the number one priority with a bullet, and deciding where to go next is far less important. But you have a few seconds, and a few people from outside to help. Ask them if they have any good ideas or general directions to head in. If Mason wants a plan, he'll get a plan.

And now's not the time, but we need to give Chance the opportunity to vent. He's taking on a lot of stress and holding it in for the sakes of the kids.
>>
No. 920245 ID: 3ed3c3

>>920236
Suplex isn't the most knowledgable about the outside. To her, anywhere but here is paradise by comparison. However, if any of our party members happen to know of a place that may offer some more security, then they're welcome to speak up. For now, though, the plan is pretty much "get out and as far away as possible without dying."
>>
No. 920255 ID: 91ee5f

>>920236
>Where are we going?
We’re going to see Doc Fuller. We heard that she has a way to get people out of here.
>>
No. 920273 ID: 8f36f1

Anywhere safe.
>>
No. 920306 ID: 7d9d06

Somewhere mom can't touch us.
>>
No. 920358 ID: 4c908d

There has to be places in the outside world that don't tolerate or would criminalize all of... THIS.

There has to be places that value life.

...We don't really know much, do we?
>>
No. 920368 ID: a9af05

>>920236
I can't tell if he's asking where we're going in the facility or if he's asking where we're going once we get out.

If he's asking where we'll go once we get out, tell him that you don't know.

If he's asking where we're going in the facility, then tell him what >>920255 said.
>>
No. 920913 ID: 53b212
File 155002795603.png - (16.57KB , 550x550 , 252.png )
920913

SUPLEX: Do you mean inside this place or-
MASON: Both.
MASON: I don’t wanna be here anymore.
MASON: So, where are we going?

You are suddenly smacked with the realization that you don’t know shit about the outside world.

SUPLEX: Well, uh, shit, , we’re gonna go see this person named Doc Fuller first.
SUPLEX: They’ve got a way out.
SUPLEX: Anywhere out is better than in here, anywhere that-
You hesitate.
SUPLEX: Somewhere that Mom can’t touch us.
SUPLEX: Somewhere we don’t have to deal with this ever again, where they actually care about life-
MASON: Have you ever gone out there?
SUPLEX: No-
MASON: How’d you know then?
MASON: What if there’s more people like Mom?
SUPLEX: …
MASON: If you didn’t see it, how do you know?

Chance clears his throat, trying to get your attention.

CHANCE: I do.
CHANCE: I lived outside of the facility for a long time. I grew up nearby.
>>
No. 920914 ID: 53b212
File 155002797048.png - (14.54KB , 550x550 , 253.png )
920914

CHANCE: There’s a stretch of desert between here and there, if it’s stayed the same since I was hired... Well...
CHANCE: It’d be a hard trek, and we’d have very little cover... and a lot of ground to get through, but if we can just get inside the city…
CHANCE: It’d be hard for anyone to find us without crossing lines with Grind.

Dwayne snorts, making a dismissive hand gesture.

DWAYNE: Gods aren’t gonna help us, dude. If he even is a so-called god.
CHANCE: Whether he's a deity or not doesn't matter, the people in charge wouldn’t take well to anyone from here searching around for someone. Not in broad daylight at the very least.
CHANCE: I think that’s our best shot.

CHANCE: We get into Mockery somehow, and we find a way to lay low. Blend in.
CHANCE: ...get these kids a good life, you know?
>>
No. 920915 ID: 7e9c89

"does that sound okay, mason?"
>>
No. 920925 ID: 158da5

"And the fact that we're bred to be monsters won't upset this "Grind"? We'll be able to just... Live there? That seems good. Sounds like a plan, right, Mason?"
>>
No. 920929 ID: 3ed3c3

>>920914
So there's the plan: get out, get to Mockery, lay low, don't die. A simple, four-step program for a better life.
>>
No. 920930 ID: 91ee5f

>>920914
>We get into Mockery somehow, and we find a way to lay low. Blend in.
“I can see you guys and the kids blending in, but do you really think someone like me can blend in? In case you haven’t noticed, I kinda stand out.”
>>
No. 920936 ID: b1b4f3

There's also the question of the other maybecats trying to break out, if any of them catch up to us.
>>
No. 920951 ID: e3e99e

>>920914
"Think they'd take refugees? Or deserters?
If it'll keep the kids safe, I'll fight for these Grinders."
>>
No. 920953 ID: 10c408

>>920936
Vivi is already breaking out other maybecats. We're just the ones who've gotten the furthest along.
>>
No. 920955 ID: f1ae8a

>>920925
>>920915
>>920951

Seconding. Ask Mason if they're up for that
>>
No. 921006 ID: f73624

Sound like a goal?
>>
No. 922398 ID: 53b212
File 155062361238.png - (15.57KB , 550x550 , 254.png )
922398

SUPLEX: I mean, that sounds great and all, but if you haven’t noticed-
You gesture to yourself.
SUPLEX: I’m gonna stick out like a sore thumb.
SUPLEX: And my siblings would stand out even more than me.

Chance shakes his head, stopping you before you can ramble on.

CHANCE: Mockery has a large population of mutated residents, I’ve seen plenty of people more visibly mutated than you.
DWAYNE: Yeah, and that’s why they call that city cursed. Stay too long and you become a monster, right?
CHANCE: Well...that's the rumor, yeah, but it’s just an urban legend. Mockery's a good place for monsters to travel to, so that's why there's a lot of monsters there. It's somewhere safe for them to live and be accepted… and that’s exactly what we need.
CHANCE: They’ll have resources, accomodations, things we could never have here... Or, honestly, anywhere else.
CHANCE: The larger and more outwardly-mutated people that come with us may have a harder time, but if they're going to have a shot at a normal life anywhere, it'd be Mockery.
SUPLEX: So...we can just live there?
CHANCE: Well... it’s all up in the air until we actually get there, but, I really think it's our best bet.
SUPLEX: Simple enough, I guess.
SUPLEX: How’s that sound, kid?

Mason thinks it over, pulling his knees close to his chest and resting his head on them.
MASON: It's really better than here?
CHANCE: Much.
MASON: ...I guess.
>>
No. 922400 ID: 53b212
File 155062373651.png - (23.32KB , 550x550 , 255.png )
922400

Mason struggles to his feet, stumbling a little. Melanie runs over, supporting Maes on her own shoulder as best she could.

MELANIE: Mason!! You’re okay!
MASON: Melly...yeah, I’m okay.

Melanie pulls Mason over, then brings her siblings in for a hug, Mason having to lean down to be on the same eye level. The contrast is almost jarring.

NELSON: Everyone ready to go?
NELSON: We should probably get rolling again...I don’t want to push our luck.
NELSON: If you’ve got any last minute things to do, now's the time.
NELSON: It's a straight shot to Fuller from here.
>>
No. 922405 ID: b1b4f3

>>922400
We got the supplies from this room, the former guards are no risk as far as we can tell... let's go.
...it occurs to me that we just spoke at length about our escape plans in hearing range of the two guards. Do we need to silence them?
>>
No. 922415 ID: 3ed3c3

What are the odds She knows we're going to Fuller? This could very well be an ambush waiting to happen.
>>
No. 922420 ID: 7e9c89

i think we can just go, as fast as we can. we've known we were in danger and that she might guess stuff
>>
No. 922423 ID: 158da5

Take the guards' weapons if we haven't already. And tell them to keep an eye out for other escapees, make sure they're on track to follow. And if anyone chases after us, try doing the right thing for once.

That's all I've got.
>>
No. 922439 ID: 91ee5f

We should get moving. Because Vivi has warned us that this guy: >>893853 , who single handedly took out multiple escapees without breaking a sweat is coming after us and I don’t think any of us want to run into that guy!
>>
No. 922442 ID: 2202fb

>>922405
We either need to kill them or take them with us, regardless of what they want. It is too dangerous to leave them when they know our plan.
>>
No. 922456 ID: 91ee5f

>>922405
>>922442
>kill the guards
They’ve already told us that they’re not going to stop us.

The guard with a big chunk missing from his leg knows that he’s going to die from blood loss and the other guard knows that he can’t do anything to stop us. The guard missing a chunk of his leg even expressed that he’s happy someone finally started a mutiny.

Let’s just keep moving and leave these guys here.
>>
No. 922484 ID: 83bf07

>>922405
Recruit guard. Check supplies. Move ahead.
>>
No. 922709 ID: ecd116

bringing the two guards or at least one of them could be useful and you could use them to scout ahead at points a bit ahead of your group, even use them as decoy for a distraction so you can do a stealth attack or it all fails meatshields/bait. of course i recommend the first two as much as possible and leave the last choice to use only when your back to the wall in the face of certain doom and you have noting else to fall back on and hope it does not come to that. it least in that case give them weapons of some sort so they or at least one of them can buy you time to escape or fight back. wait have you ask their names yet? if you have time go do that if you want.
>>
No. 922790 ID: a9af05

There's no need to kill these guys, since they ain't gonna try to stop us.

Let's just leave them here and keep moving!
>>
No. 922835 ID: 2202fb

>>922456
>>922790
This isnt about them stopping us, it is about what they know. Hell, even if they dont break under extreme torture, they could probably have their brains scrubbed for info. Info like our plan and where we are going.

This is why we either need to take them with us, or kill them (specifically, smashing their brains).
>>
No. 922871 ID: 158da5

>>922835
I'm sure it's tempting, and it's certainly easy. But it's not good. And sometimes being good means leaving problems for later.
>>
No. 922872 ID: 91ee5f

>>922835
We can’t bring them with us, they’re dead weight and will slow us down. And considering our group is already at 7 people, I’d like to call that max capacity of necessary people.

We can’t kill them because there are children watching. And we can’t send everyone away and let Suplex kill them, since that would be splitting up the group, which is a very dangerous thing to do when we’re so close to our goal.

The only option left that doesn’t have us waste anymore time is to just leave them and get going.
>>
No. 922873 ID: 10c408

>>922871
>>922872
>>922835

Gentlemen, there is a solution to this problem. Give guard 2 something sharp. Take guard 1 with us and remind him, quietly, that he can either put his lot in with our escape attempt OR get choked out and left behind to the tender mercy of whoever finds him first.
>>
No. 922875 ID: 158da5

>>922873
That has the problems of all three plans. I think I'm pretty set with leaving them.
>>
No. 923031 ID: 2202fb

>>922871
>>922872
>>922873

Being good or bad has nothing to do with this. This is about survival and leaving these guys behind is a very very dangerous thing to do. I am all for finding another option, but we can't let the enemy have access to their gray matter, be it living or dead.
>>
No. 923441 ID: 6f6f25

pause
>>
No. 923448 ID: 91ee5f

>>923031
>This is about survival
Exactly.

According to what Vivi told us, we’re currently running from something that effortlessly took out a couple of the other escapees before turning to follow after us. We can’t afford to waste any time or it’ll catch up to us!

Which means we can’t waste time killing these guards, so we’re better off just leaving them.
>>
No. 923449 ID: a9af05

>>923448
I agree.

Our time is precious and even the few seconds it would take to kill these guards could mean the difference between getting caught by the thing chasing us or getting away from it.

We should just leave these guards here and not waste anymore time on them.
>>
No. 923501 ID: 21bd50

>>923448
>>923449
That is ridiculous. It seems like sparing them is the route most people want to take, but just say it like it is. Seconds dont matter that much. If they did then we are already fucked.

Here's a question for you. In general, is it better to be pragmatic or is it better to help others, possibly to your own extreme detriment?
>>
No. 923502 ID: b1b4f3

...actually, it doesn't really matter if they find out where we're going, does it? Once we're there, they can't touch us.
>>
No. 923516 ID: 158da5

>>923501
This isn't even pragmatism versus doing good. It's pointless cruelty versus potential minor complications. The stakes were never high enough that a discussion of killing the guards was ever needed in the first place.
>>
No. 923524 ID: 53b212
File 155125623211.png - (24.47KB , 550x550 , 256.png )
923524

SUPLEX: Nelson, go check for supplies.

The softbody nods, speedwalking off to look around.

SUPLEX: Only other thing I can think of is, well….

You gesture towards the other guards with a quick head motion.

DWAYNE: You gonna take ‘em out?
SUPLEX: ...no. I thought about it, and it’s just…
SUPLEX: I don’t want to kill anymore. Not more than I have to.
SUPLEX: We don’t need to take them out, and we’ve already got too many people to take them with us.

Dwayne watches your face for a moment before nodding approvingly.

DWAYNE: Yeah.
DWAYNE: Yeah, good choice.

He looks over as Chance scoops Melanie up again with one arm, taking Maes’ hand in his other.

DWAYNE: Things never stick to plan, do they?
SUPLEX: ...maybe that’s for the better.
DWAYNE: Only if our luck holds up.
DWAYNE: Til then…

He smiles, reaching out to catch a bag Nelson tosses over.

DWAYNE: Guess we just keep moving forward.
>>
No. 923525 ID: 53b212
File 155125625665.png - (51.42KB , 550x550 , 257.png )
923525

Coast looks clear enough- you nearly jump out of your skin when you feel a tiny hand touch yours, even more surprised to see that it’s Mason. For all of his rage and hatred earlier, you can tell that he’s just as worried about this as his sister.

DWAYNE: Cmon. We should get going.

Mason swallows, holding on tight to your paw as you move forward. You kind of wish you had thumbs, if only to give his hand a squeeze. That’s what people do, right? You saw Chance do it at one point for Mel, and...maybe that’s what people do, with scared kids.
>>
No. 923526 ID: 53b212
File 155125626966.png - (130.53KB , 550x550 , 258.png )
923526

What they’re supposed to do.
>>
No. 923527 ID: 7e9c89

focus on the feel of his paw in yours, contact vivi if you can think through the flashback - you'll be okay, suplex.
>>
No. 923532 ID: 158da5

You want to be there for Mason, but maybe it's going to have to be the other way around for a bit. As long as you didn't collapse, hopefully they'll lead you along until you can get past this. They're all waiting for you, and they all understand. You have so much ahead of you.

But for now, you must confront what's behind you.
>>
No. 923535 ID: 83bf07

>>923526
Stop. Breathe. Sandwich his hand with both of yours. This will have to do. Stay in the present. What's right in front of you? Focus on that and keep moving.
>>
No. 923565 ID: f1ae8a

>>923527
>>923532

>You can do this and get through this
>You didn't have someone there for you like a child should have, but you're here now, you're still here now, and Mason needs you as much as you need him
>>
No. 923830 ID: 91ee5f

>>923535
>>923565
Both of these.
>>
No. 923831 ID: a9af05

>>923525
>>923526
No one was there for you when you were a child, but you won't let that happen to these kids. It'll be different this time. You'll be there for them.
>>
No. 925583 ID: 53b212
File 155245467534.png - (96.58KB , 550x550 , 259.png )
925583

You sandwich Mason’s paw between both of yours. You can’t see much, and everything’s all shaky and hard to understand through the red haze, but you can feel him squeeze back without hesitation. You try to focus on the feeling of his pulse, grounding yourself. The irony of this isn’t lost on you- here you are, trying to be cool and strong for this kid, and he’s out here keeping your brain in check.

You’d laugh at how bullshit it was, but you’re too busy appreciating it to be sarcastic. It’s helping you stay in the present-

MOTHER: You disappointed me again, MC-122. Again, and again, and again.

Not all the way.

MOTHER: I hope you’ve learned your lesson.

But it’s enough.
>>
No. 925584 ID: 53b212
File 155245471146.png - (76.10KB , 550x550 , 260.png )
925584

You’re here. Mason needs you. Everyone needs you.

MOTHER: You are nothing but a waste, undeserving of my attention in the slightest. You’ve been nothing of a burden on me, on this project, on yourself! You could have been so much more, and you’ve squandered it with your failings.

But you need them too. They’re waiting for you, and they get that shit is rough for you. You brought them all together, and yeah, maybe you’re their leader- but you’re a team now.

MOTHER: You have nothing ahead of you aside from abject failure. Nothing will ever come of you, and I’m tired of hoping otherwise.

You have so much ahead of you and you CAN do this, you CAN get through this. Nobody was there for you when you needed it, but who gives a shit? You have this now, and you won’t let that shit happen to them again.

MOTHER: Let’s see how well you live on your own, just like the rest of them. Let’s see how you do as just another pitiful monster, unfit to even LOOK in my direction, to breathe the very AIR that is provided to you.

You’ll be here. For all of them. No matter what happens, and you’re sick of this shit keeping you from feeling that, from knowing that.

MOTHER: Trying to get ANY potential out of you was a waste of resources. The most you'll ever be worth is the meat on your bones.
[i]MOTHER: You should have died in your tube.


Time to find some fucking solutions.
>>
No. 925585 ID: 53b212
File 155245476916.png - (79.18KB , 550x550 , 261.png )
925585

You reach out to see if you can get ahold of Vivi, and while the connection is shaky, it’s there.

VIVI: Suplex! It’s good to hear y-
VIVI: ...oh dear, you’ve got a bad aura around you.
VIVI: What happened? Are you alright?
SUPLEX: Just...not great, right now.
SUPLEX: I keep having these flashes of memory, ever since we ran from helping you guys.
SUPLEX: I want it to stop. You said you could like, mess with people’s heads and shit.
VIVI: You want me to do something about this?
SUPLEX: Please.
VIVI: From this distance, I can’t stop the flashbacks, but I can redirect.
VIVI: I have no control over what comes up when I’m so far away, but...would you like a kinder memory?

>>
No. 925586 ID: e75fd1

yes please, vivi
>>
No. 925587 ID: c8452a

You want the memories to stop taking over. But if it's all you can get right now, a kinder memory would be good enough. Thanks, Vivi.
>>
No. 925593 ID: 1d8da8

Something peaceful would be best, yeah.
>>
No. 925595 ID: b1b4f3

>>925585
If this is going to keep happening you need Vivi to be closer so she can snap you out of it the instant it happens. After you talk to the Doc and plan out an escape route I think it'll be time to regroup.
>>
No. 925599 ID: 83bf07

>>925585
Your times with Nelson could do. Recent enough to not be wistful, not too distracting (hopefully) and easy to snap out of (maybe).
>>
No. 925612 ID: 2202fb

Since we do have employees breaking out with us, they should have some experience with high-risk and usually-considered-dubious surgery. It shouldnt be too hard for them to surgically alter tcps that escape to restore functionality. They could fix your nose and stabilize your biology so you dont die really young, for instance. It should be possible, they just dont do it here cuz you are expendable here.
>>
No. 925616 ID: cfad5b

Anything easier to bear right now. Anything.
>>
No. 925952 ID: 29a990

Seems like all the time spent waiting in the cell would be a good broad nutral target, it doesn't seem like pleasent is really something that happened in her past.
>>
No. 926017 ID: 91ee5f

Could we ask for something that won’t block our vision and hearing? That way we can actually see and hear what’s going on around us in the present. Because it would really suck if we walked into danger because we couldn’t see it or couldn’t hear our allies warning us.
>>
No. 926364 ID: 53b212
File 155302726629.png - (119.02KB , 550x550 , 262.png )
926364

SUPLEX: Yes, please, anything-

The new memory comes without warning or notice, dropping you into it.
You’re bleeding, and it hurts. It hurts so much, and it’s suffocating, and-

You feel a hand on your shoulder, vision swimming as a voice, so familiar and so foreign, cuts through the haze.

????: Hey..hey, it’s okay…
????: You’re real roughed up, huh?
????: You can cry if you need to.
????: Won’t judge, I cross my heart!
????: Everybody has to cry sometime.

The tears come, and you hate it. You hate yourself for bawling like the child you know you used to be in this moment, and you hate that someone is seeing it.

????: That’s it, that’s okay.
????: You can let it out.
MC-122: C-can’t, you can’t-
????: I won’t tell. I promise.
>>
No. 926365 ID: 53b212
File 155302728860.png - (85.44KB , 550x550 , 263.png )
926365

The person talking to you flickers into view- you recognize the face, but something’s not quite right to what you remember, not the same.

????: My name’s Harvey!
HARVEY: What’s yours?

You swallow, throat feeling clogged and tight.

MC-122: I don’t have a n-name…
HARVEY: Do you want one?

You stare blankly back at her, not really understanding.

HARVEY: If you want a name, you should give yourself one.
HARVEY: You can even keep it secret, if you want!
HARVEY: Mine’s like that. Just for me- but I trust you with it too.

She makes a shushing motion with her hand, and you smile a little.

HARVEY: How ‘bout it?
>>
No. 926369 ID: 7e9c89

"i don't know what to pick.."
>>
No. 926373 ID: f46e5e

He looks kinda like a Viking.
He looks tied up, my guess is this is how he looked last we saw him, the same way it seems memory you has current you's coat.
>>
No. 926379 ID: b1b4f3

SUPLEX, because wrestling is cool and you want to be cool too.
>>
No. 926394 ID: c8452a

Choosing a name is powerful, but there's something special about being named by someone else. Especially someone who cares. Maybe Harvey has a suggestion? Maybe you're waiting for someone else.
>>
No. 926429 ID: e7848c

What makes a good name? It needs to be special, right?
>>
No. 926432 ID: c8452a

>>926373
She
>>
No. 926447 ID: e66de2

>>926365
Can it... can it be anything?
I've always been fond of Flicker, or Afterglow...
>>
No. 926460 ID: 1d8da8

>>926447
Flicker, then? Just for now.
>>
No. 926461 ID: 91ee5f

>>926365
Question: Is this supposed to be the moment when Suplex decided to give herself the name Suplex? Or is this the moment when she gave herself a different secret name that we don’t know about because she started calling herself Suplex to keep her other name a secret?

Because if it’s the latter, then that would mean that Suplex isn’t actually her name!
>>
No. 926474 ID: f2320a

>>926394
Agreed let them name us
>>
No. 926494 ID: c8452a

>>926461
The name suplex was given by interns, she doesn't name herself that.
>>
No. 926501 ID: b1b4f3

>>926494
Oh right, in that case...
Grace.
>>
No. 926502 ID: 3432dd

Our other siblings have names that start with M.

How bout Maggie?
>>
No. 926517 ID: af928d

Harvey can give a name, if their name is a secret they shared how about it be our secret

Or maybe Marcel
>>
No. 926558 ID: cbdfa8

>>926365

i was thinking Kara.
>>
No. 926672 ID: cac518

its obvious.

Maybe.
>>
No. 926678 ID: 11fcab

>>926672
"Call me Maybe. Maybe Quest."
>>
No. 926680 ID: 688dd6

Maeby Quest
>>
No. 928491 ID: 53b212
File 155426373634.png - (57.93KB , 550x550 , 264.png )
928491

MC-122: I...I don’t know what to pick.
MC-122: I don’t know what’d be okay, or if I’m picking right…
MC-122: What if I don’t like it? What if I screw up?
HARVEY: There’s no such thing as screwing up with names!
HARVEY: Pick something you like, and if it doesn’t stick..
HARVEY: You can always change it! This kinda stuff isn’t set in stone.
MC-122: Can you pick for me?
HARVEY: Well, I could!
HARVEY: But we just met and all, it wouldn’t be right to.
MC-122: Would...would May be okay, as a name?

She nods enthusiastically, grinning from metaphorical ear to metaphorical ear.

HARVEY: May it is!
>>
No. 928492 ID: 53b212
File 155426375051.png - (46.00KB , 550x550 , 265.png )
928492

MAY: ...okay.
HARVEY: How’s it feel, May?

You smile, just a little.

MAY: It’s nice. I think I like it.
HARVEY: Remember- you don’t have to tell anyone you don’t want to.
HARVEY: Sometimes it’s safer like that, but it’s always up to you, no matter what.
MAY: What if people find out?

She glances away.

HARVEY: There’s always the risk of that, with secrets.
HARVEY: But if it’s something you believe in, you’ll find a way to keep it safe.
>>
No. 928493 ID: 53b212
File 155426376337.png - (62.54KB , 550x550 , 266.png )
928493

She looks back, her face troubled.

HARVEY: You’ll keep my secret, won’t you?
HARVEY: I’m not supposed to be here, or talking to anybody…
HARVEY: And...you can’t exactly count on me being here again.
HARVEY: It’s honestly a bit cruel of me, haha…
HARVEY: Chelsea means well, but she still…

She trails off, shaking her head.

HARVEY: It doesn’t matter much, I guess!
HARVEY: I’m glad I got to meet you!
HARVEY: I don't regret it.
HARVEY: Not one bit.
>>
No. 928494 ID: 7e9c89

"i'm glad i got to meet you too."
>>
No. 928495 ID: ab0e27

we've seen that face before. we'll probably see them again.
>>
No. 928500 ID: b1b4f3

>>928493
Y...you too
>>
No. 928507 ID: e7848c

>>928492
Are hugs okay?
>>
No. 928512 ID: c8452a

"I'll keep your secret, promise. Even if we don't meet again, this was nice! It's kinda weird how not cruel you are, actually..."
>>
No. 928532 ID: 8eaf98

I can't resist. "I'll remember you" cause we are, right now
>>
No. 928542 ID: e8db6b

>>928532
This is a must
>>
No. 928562 ID: 2fb5cd

>>928532
nice one
>>
No. 928573 ID: 2202fb

We need to continue to keep this a secret till we escape completely or we are going to be jinxing ourselves to shit. unless we already fucked up somewhere along the line and will have a memory of getting horribly tortured and end up spilling everything and betraying them, followed by suffering the consequences of keeping it a secret anyway just to spite us and show us how insignificant and powerless we are.
>>
No. 928622 ID: 8eaf98

>>928573
See? This is why there is little point in worrying about such things. Hell, this could even not be our memory somehow.
>>
No. 930139 ID: 53b212
File 155548462069.png - (89.65KB , 550x550 , 267.png )
930139

You’ve seen this face before, and you get the feeling you’ll see it again... even if it won't be quite the same.

MAY: I’m glad I got to meet you, too.
MAY: And...I’ll remember you, and...your secret's safe with me.
MAY: I promise.
HARVEY: Thank you, May.

A raspy, cackling voice calls out from down the hall, Harvey flinching at the sound.

????: CHELSEA!
HARVEY: I have to go.
????: CHELSEA I SWEAR TO GODDDD
????: GET THE HELL OUT HERE BEFORE I MAKE YOU GET OUT HERE
????: Y'KNOW WHAT? SURE, DO THAT! IT’LL BE FUN
????: MAKE MY DAY!

Harvey shudders, straightening out her back and giving you a nervous smile.

HARVEY: You’ll do good out there, okay?
HARVEY: I know you will.

You nod, watching as she runs off, the world peeling back to reality with every step.

Something’s tugging on your sleeve.
>>
No. 930140 ID: 53b212
File 155548465058.png - (26.64KB , 550x550 , 268.png )
930140

You shake your head, snapping out of it as best as you can. You feel a lot more well-rested now, and make a mental note to thank Vivi later- but for now, looks like there’s more to deal with.

Nelson’s pulling at your coat, a panicked look on his face that only lets up when he sees you refocus. There’s another cat here in a doctor getup, brandishing a pair of scissors and snarling.

????: I won’t do it.
CHANCE: Please, we have to get out of here-
????: You’re...this is ludicrous, you’re going to get us all killed.
CHANCE: Doc, there’s kids!
FULLER: No. Absolutely not.
>>
No. 930141 ID: 53b212
File 155548466905.png - (28.40KB , 550x550 , 269.png )
930141

DWAYNE: So what do we do now? We’ve come all this way, only for you to tell us to fuck off.
FULLER: Y-you’ve made your bed.
FULLER: Don’t drag me into it!
FULLER: I can tell you’re all bad news, and I’ll have no part of this!
FULLER: I rather like being alive, thank you!
>>
No. 930144 ID: b1b4f3

>>930141
What's the point of being alive if you still feel dead inside?
Tell her about the test subject you helped. You had to do something that you were forced to do so many times, but this time it actually helped someone. It felt right for once. How many times has she told one of these children that everything's going to be okay, when it absolutely wasn't? Wouldn't it feel right to say it and mean it?

You're not asking her to come with you. You just need to know how to get out of here.
>>
No. 930146 ID: c8452a

Bullshit. Anyone that lives like that isn't happy about it. They don't like it. You would know. You could spout off about friendship and family and making the hard choice but none of that's going to work until the threat is resolved and Fuller is calmed down.

Ask Dwayne about what you need from them and figure out the best way to get it. I think maybe we need to disarm and restrain Fuller before we try to convince them.
>>
No. 930150 ID: 10c408

"Doctor, we've dragged our bed to your proverbial doorstep. We can leave but are you absolutely sure that you'll be spared by those who're chasing us if you DON'T get involved?"
>>
No. 930154 ID: 2a13fa

Doc, we're not about to give up and go home at any point, and you're the piece of the puzzle we're still fixing to fit in. Do you really think we're going to just leave you? Do you think we CAN? Think about this.
>>
No. 930164 ID: 2202fb

>>930141
You didnt kill us on sight so you are already dead in her eyes. I am truly sorry doc. We have damned you, and that us unforgivable, but we had no choice. I wish there was another way, but your only choice is to help us and have a chance at surviving.
>>
No. 930174 ID: 3ed3c3

>>930141
Oh, for fuck's sake.
Doc, start being helpful or else Suplex will take those scissors, cram them up your tight ass, and start biting off your fingers until you get with the program.
>>
No. 930201 ID: a9af05

>>930141
Tell her that if she enjoys being alive so much, then she shouldn't have given herself a reputation of helping others escape. You're only here because she's helped others escape. Meaning it's her own fault that you're here now, asking her for the same help she's given to everyone that's come before you.
>>
No. 930403 ID: a627e3

>>930141
Let's put as bluntly as possible doc, you can either help us out of here and get a chance for a better life, or you can DIE in here. this place is death trap and you know it. there's already rumors that you know a way out of this place, it's only a matter of time before the Director finds out. so do you want to stay here and die, or try to get out with your life?
>>
No. 933660 ID: 53b212
File 155849062977.png - (22.10KB , 550x550 , 270.png )
933660

MAY: We’ve dragged our bed right to you, Doc.
MAY: How many times did you tell kids like these that things were gonna be okay?
MAY: How many did you hurt?

They don’t respond, squinting at you.

MAY: Don’t you want to tell ‘em that it’s alright and have it actually mean something?

Nothing. You keep going.
>>
No. 933661 ID: 53b212
File 155849064040.png - (29.30KB , 550x550 , 271.png )
933661

MAY: Plus, you really think they’ll just leave you alone if we bail?
MAY: You didn’t kill us on sight-
FULLER: Yet! I...I can still do it! Don't test me!

You slap the scissors out of their hands, the doctor scooting against the wall and hissing.

MAY: Yesterday, I probably would have let you try.
MAY: But today, I got a chance of surviving, and I’m done with this.
MAY: What’s the point of living like this, Doc?
MAY: We’re all fucked if we stay in this death trap, and you’re the only person who knows the way out.
MAY: You don’t gotta come with us, but we need you.
MAY: Don’t bullshit us.
>>
No. 933662 ID: 53b212
File 155849065361.png - (22.33KB , 550x550 , 272.png )
933662

They look like they want to spit in your face.

FULLER: Fine.
FULLER: But you have to listen to me, you understand?
FULLER: If you want to get out of here alive, you can’t boss me around!
FULLER: And I'll need you to answer some questions first. Things you probably don't want to hear.
FULLER: If you can’t deal with that, you’re out of luck!
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No. 933667 ID: 3ed3c3

>>933662
"I got plenty of shit on my plate. You're just another turd on the pile. Ask your questions already."
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No. 933672 ID: e7848c

We're waiting.
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No. 933673 ID: b1b4f3

>>933662
I agree to these terms.
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No. 933681 ID: ea82cb

It's not bossing you around to get you to hold you to your word, but okay. Don't fuck us and we don't try to fuck you, and that'll include being bossy.

And now you have questions? Time is something in short supply, but you know that. With that in mind, we can do some answers for you. Considering your end, that's fair, hopefully.
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No. 933684 ID: a9af05

>>933662
>Questions
"In case you haven't noticed, we don't exactly have a lot of time. So whatever questions you've gotta ask, ask them quickly."
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No. 934402 ID: a627e3

>>933662
ask away, but be quick about it. the more time we spend here the more likely we'll be found.
how bout we walk and talk? if not, fine. just know you're risking your ass as well.
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No. 941049 ID: 53b212
File 156454912499.png - (21.85KB , 550x550 , 273.png )
941049

MAY: We have plenty of shit on our plate and not enough time to deal with it all, Doc.
MAY: Fair to ask questions, but do it quick.
FULLER: I can buy us time, if it helps, but they're getting answered if you want out.
CHANCE: Any time is good time. Go for it.

Fuller points to a bookcase by the far wall.

FULLER: Help me move this.

Dwayne and Nelson step forward with a bit of hesitance, helping Fuller push the bookcase aside- revealing a mostly painted over door.

FULLER: This leads to an abandoned maintenance hallway.
FULLER: No idea why it got left behind, but it goes all over the complex.
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No. 941050 ID: 53b212
File 156454914002.png - (14.25KB , 550x550 , 274.png )
941050

Doc Fuller fumbles with a ring of keys from their pocket, unlocking the door with trembling hands. The hallway ahead is pitch black and dusty, cobwebs everywhere.

FULLER: Including up top.
MAY: So...we can walk and talk then.
FULLER: Yes, and you better answer my questions.
FULLER: These tunnels are even more of a labyrinth than out here. I know the way, you don't.
FULLER: You don't answer me, you're not finding your way out.
DWAYNE: How do we know you won’t just double-cross us once we’re in there?
FULLER: You don’t.
FULLER: But I don't know you won't do the same to me, and you took the only weapon I had!
FULLER: ...not that it would have done me any good, if I’m honest.

They let out a deep sigh, gesturing to the darkness ahead.

FULLER: Are you coming, or are you just going to stay here and die?
MAY: We’re coming.
MAY: Anything to get out of this hellhole.
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No. 941051 ID: 53b212
File 156454915702.png - (35.05KB , 550x550 , 275.png )
941051

Your party steps inside, Chance holding Melanie and Maes’ hands. Mason stays close to you. You can see alright in the dark, but it’s still scary for the kids, and you can’t help but be relieved once Fuller takes out a flashlight.

FULLER: I’ve been through this hall plenty, taking people through…
FULLER: And I always ask the same questions.

FULLER: First question.
FULLER: Where do you wanna end up? Your best bet is the city, but what kind of place are you really after?
FULLER: You don’t have to know specifics, but you need more than just “out”.

FULLER: Second question.
FULLER: What are you gonna do once you’re out? You’re not going to be able to scrape by without some sort of plan.
FULLER: You might be able to survive on the streets just on your own, but those kids won’t make it.

FULLER: Third question.
FULLER: Are you prepared to die? Honestly, truly, prepared to die?
FULLER: Not many people I take out of here make it out for good.
FULLER: Even if they get to the city, they can’t hack it because this place doesn’t teach you much in the way of social skills, life skills, how to interact with the world.
FULLER: So they end up killing someone, and get killed themselves, and then it’s done with.
FULLER: Are you ready for that?
FULLER: And if not, what are you gonna do to prevent it?
FULLER: What are you going to do to keep yourselves- and those kids- safe?

FULLER: I’m not risking my life for people who don’t want to commit.
FULLER: We have time. Answer the questions.
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No. 941052 ID: 648a08

>>941051
Okay, first thing you should do is try to call out for Vivi, say that you've found a way out but it needs a guide and you may end up out of range. Your current guide is asking questions as insurance against bad things happening so if they have a way to track you they might be able to make it out unassisted.

As for the first question... all of us are going to need to find a medical place that isn't connected with the Menagerie, this may be difficult so firstly, halfway places for travelers looking to move between cities.

For surviving... everyone here is fairly physically able. Physical work would be ideal, but the main issue I can see is that you've been mostly eating meat. I'm not sure how to keep that unnoticeable.

And the last, nope! It's going to suck but you are trying to get out of here to avoid that, as well as being stuck with all your worst fears. There's many people that deserve a better life than you had, though.
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No. 941053 ID: e7848c

Jesus doc, just hit us with a battery of questions.
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No. 941056 ID: 3ed3c3

>>941051
>Where do you wanna end up? Your best bet is the city, but what kind of place are you really after?
We'd discussed this within our group already, actually. The plan is a bit loose, but it boils down to getting to the city, disappearing into the crowd, ducking down in a homeless shelter or halfway house, then working on carving out a life. Looking for jobs, making money, leaving the old life behind. As it was said: a loose plan, but a plan all the same.

>What are you gonna do once you’re out?
I could point back to the first answer, but to be more in-depth, our little crew here has some decent and marketable skills. We're all smart and quick, and some of us are deceptively strong and tough. It shouldn't be impossible for us to find a means of keeping our group alive outside. It has to be easier than trying to survive in here.

>Are you prepared to die? Honestly, truly, prepared to die?
If this place has taught us anything, it's that there are fates so much worse than death. If it comes down to a choice between death and being thrown back into this damn nightmare machine, then it's death. No contest.
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No. 941058 ID: b1b4f3

>>941051
>what kind of place?
Homeless shelter should work fine, at first. Maybe an orphanage for the kids, once they've grown to trust the citizens of the city, but I'm not sure they'd want to be separated from the group, not for a long time.
>What are you gonna do once you’re out?
First, go to the police and explain what happened here. They may be able to direct us towards resources that can help. Then find a job. Any job, so long as it's legal. Everyone's gonna be flat broke, which means any amount of income is critical. Begging should work during the job hunt if we can't get government assistance.
>Are you prepared to die?
The plan is to live, but dying free is better than staying in this hellhole.
>What are you going to do to keep yourselves- and those kids- safe?
Not murder anyone, first off. You can fight and even kill to defend yourself, but you don't want to kill anymore if you can avoid it, and in the city you'll want to avoid it even more. Secondly, you're gonna need some help with... uh, some personal issues, and socializing will be important so you'll want to make friends. The former-employee allies we have are more socially inclined so they can help with socializing. It's easier to contribute in a group conversation, after all, and they can do most of the talking.

Since you're supposed to be earning her trust maybe you should tell her about Vivi, and the hunter-killer Vivi warned you about. On the other hand she might just outright refuse to help any further...
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No. 941554 ID: b5bc34

First answer, if you're asking where we want to end up, it's our own place, something permanent. But if you're asking where we want to go once we get out, some place with free food or a way to earn it for simple work, and somewhere with a roof.

Second answer, I don't know what's out there, but you do right? You probably know how hard is it to find a place that'll hire me, or the other adults here. Something like those is what I want, so if you have a suggestion, be useful and tell me. Otherwise the plan is to use what Chance and Dwayne know about the outside to get an idea of how to do all that on my own.

And slow down, your third question had like, three questions in it. Yeah, I'm prepared to die. But not for nothing. I'm not planning to die because I can't help but to kill people. I've been working on that. I've had good reason to work on that.

So I'll do what it takes to keep them safe. I can't keep protecting them if I'm dead though, so that better not be whatever your plan A is. I'm going to try to keep a low profile, and do things like working with morally bankrupt doctors despite wanting to get revenge for years of torture.
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No. 941749 ID: a627e3

question 1. get to a homeless shelter or a halfway house, get a job, and once everything's settled, LIVE.

2.Like i said we're gonna get a job, and once we get a roof over our heads we're gonna live a free life with our allies. We're gonna stick together as long as possible. we'll go into something physical, it's what we're good at.

as for question 3, we'll do whatever it takes to get everyone out of this hellhole. And if that "everyone" doesn't include us, then what's the damn point? we might as well have just stayed in our cell. but if we half to chose dying in here or be traped and torcherd for the rest of our lives, we would chose death. less painful.
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No. 941912 ID: 53b212
File 156533908671.png - (36.92KB , 550x550 , 276.png )
941912

MAY: Yeesh, just hit us with a battery of questions.

Fuller just glares.
MAY: Fine. First, though…
MAY: We’ve got contact with another maybecat who's running around busting people out.
FULLER: You won’t be able to see them from here on out, I can tell you that much.
MAY: Don’t need to. She can like...talk in peoples’ heads.
FULLER: Hm. A telepath, then.
FULLER: Can she be trusted?
MAY: We think so.
MAY: We’re going to tell her the situation, if that’s cool.
FULLER: Go ahead.

You reach out for Vivi, getting a strained connection after a few moments of mental static.
VIVI: Oh! H-h-hello, May!
MAY: Hey...sounds like it’s getting hard to hear each other.
VIVI: Only a little...is everything alright?
MAY: Yeah. We found a guide, and we might end up out of range. They’re asking a lot of questions, but they seem alright.
VIVI: Good luck! We have things under control here!
VIVI: The hunter has gone completely off my radar, and I suspect she may have retreated for now.
VIVI: It’s p-p-possible she’s just waiting for a sign of where to look next, versus an all-out rampage...Be careful out th-there.
MAY: Thanks, Vivi. We will.

You focus back on the world around you, Fuller watching you with a curious expression.

MAY: Checked in.
MAY: One other thing worth bringing up…
MAY: The Director’s got some kind of hunter after us, but Vivi says that she might've gone away for now
FULLER: A hunter? Hm...good to know.
FULLER: Thank you for telling me. I don’t like it one bit, but I’m not surprised that they’d pull this!
FULLER: Busting out the big guns, they must really hate you.
MAY: Yeah. I'm aware.
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No. 941913 ID: 53b212
File 156533910673.png - (35.86KB , 550x550 , 277.png )
941913

MAY: Now, for our questions...
MAY: I guess we should probably see like...a doctor or some shit?
FULLER: I’m a doctor.
MAY: No offense, but you’re part of this nightmare just like us.
MAY: Are there any doctors that aren’t tied to here?
FULLER: Of course there are!
FULLER: You’re going to need to expand your worldview if you want to survive out there.
DWAYNE: You talk like you’ve been out there yourself.
FULLER: Well...no.
FULLER: I was born here just the same as any of the other experiments.
SUPLEX: The f- heck are you doing as a doctor, if you’re one of us?
FULLER: They found out that I’m completely immune to horror!
FULLER: Nothing goes wasted in this lab though. You either get used as meat, an experiment for their projects, or...in my case, spared.
FULLER: I showed prowess in my studies and they kept me.
FULLER: I’d say I’m grateful, but-
DWAYNE: For someone who asked us so many questions, you sure like to talk.
FULLER: Hmph. Fine.
FULLER: Go on.

MAY: Right... So, we’ll need some place to stay, even if it’s just for a little while.
CHANCE: A halfway house or a homeless shelter is our best bet.
MAY: Halfway to what?
CHANCE: It’s just what it's called...they’re places where people who need some extra help can go to get back on their feet.
CHANCE: There's also places called food banks which distribute food for free in kind of the same way.
NELSON: Would we qualify for those?
CHANCE: Definitely. They help people like us out all the time, including monsters.
CHANCE: I used to volunteer at some, even! If they’re still a thing, I bet I can find them…
FULLER: Well, that’s convenient. Don’t take that as sarcasm- convenience is rare here, and a good sign.
FULLER: What about money?
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No. 941914 ID: 53b212
File 156533913837.png - (31.66KB , 550x550 , 278.png )
941914

FULLER: Right. Shouldn’t expect an experiment to understand the concept of money.
FULLER: You three. You work here.
FULLER: Explain money.
NELSON: Right, so....uh...we get paid money here, but we’re only allowed to spend it on specific things in the lab-
FULLER: Real world money, not the play cash they toss around here.
NELSON: Uh... well...
CHANCE: It’s okay, Nelson.
CHANCE: Money is what you use to buy whatever you need outside- food, more permanent shelter, clothes- anything like that.
CHANCE: It comes in little paper bills or metal coins that represent different amounts.
CHANCE: And you typically get it by working a job- money you get from jobs is called "income."
CHANCE: You need money to make it outside. Usually you only stay in a shelter long enough to get a job so you pay for your own place, and your own food.
MAY: So we need jobs, to get money, to get a place to live and things to eat.
CHANCE: Right.
MAY: Easy enough- ...wait.
MAY: Does this mean I have to become a doctor?
MAY: Or some kind of guard?
CHANCE: Nah, there’s a lot of different kinds of job! They almost never involve hurting people at all, either.
CHANCE: We’re going to find work that lets us leave our old lives behind. Completely.
MAY: ...I’m really behind on things, aren’t I?
DWAYNE: Only a bit.
DWAYNE: I’m not much better, haha…
NELSON: Same here.
FULLER: You’re all going to have to pick up on all this quickly.
NELSON: It’s a loose plan, but we can figure it out.
FULLER: Acceptable answers.
FULLER: You have work to do, but it looks like you at least know how to talk to each other. Communication’s important here.
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No. 941915 ID: 53b212
File 156533915748.png - (35.49KB , 550x550 , 279.png )
941915

MAY: As for what we do once we’re outta here…
MAY: Everybody here’s pretty tough. If we gotta get jobs, uh…
MAY: Are there ones where we can do stuff with our strength?
CHANCE: Yeah! Physical labor’s always in high demand- building stuff, and things along those lines- and there’s usually with jobs like that people are even more willing to hire monsters due to their strength!
CHANCE: It’d be a really good option, honestly, if not our best bet.
CHANCE: Good thinking, Suplex.

You want to correct him on your name, but you decide to save it for later. You still need to sort through that whole mess yourself- it was a lot to get just dropped on you out of nowhere.


MAY: Another thing that’s bothering me is how much I gotta eat.
MAY: I get hungry a lot and it’s all gotta be meat.
MAY: Some guard fed me something green for a prank, made me sick as hell.
FULLER: Hm.
FULLER: Most experiments can eat other material as long as there’s meat as the primary diet source...I’ll have to check up on that with you later.
DWAYNE: Do we really have time for that?
FULLER: You’ll see.
CHANCE: Since the monster population in Mockery is as big as it is, meat shouldn’t be a problem.
CHANCE: The money to get a lot of it might be, since they don't usually give much meat out at food banks... but there’s places we can try.
CHANCE: We’ll look for someone who can direct us to resources, and go from there.
MAY: You know what’s out there?
CHANCE: Like I said, I know some things.
MAY: How hard is it gonna be?
CHANCE: Well... Being in Mockery, we have a better shot than anywhere else I can think of. It’s a good city.
CHANCE: If we can’t find something we need directly, we’ll be able to find someone who can help us get it.
CHANCE: People help each other there. It’s the kind of thing that Grind really promotes, and anybody who goes against that faces a lot of criticism.

You half expect Dwayne to scoff at the mention of Grind, but he keeps quiet.
>>
No. 941916 ID: 53b212
File 156533917464.png - (35.53KB , 550x550 , 280.png )
941916

MAY: Well, if we don't make it, it sure isn’t going to be for nothing.
MAY: Dying free is better than staying here, and if I have to choose between getting killed and being thrown back into this hellhole- I'd rather be dead.
MAY: ...But I'd really rather we all make it out alive.
FULLER: And what about the lives of others? Are you going to keep taking those?
MAY: …I’m trying not to.
MAY: I’ll do what I have to to keep us safe, but…
MAY: I have good reason not to hurt people now.
MAY: So, I’ll lay low, do what I need to and not uh, lash out or whatever.
MAY: I’m doing whatever it takes to make this work.
MAY: That includes working with you.


Fuller takes in your answers, nodding to themself.
FULLER: You check out better than I expected you to. I’ll help.
FULLER: But!
FULLER: You have to keep to your word.
FULLER: ...and you have to take me with you.
NELSON: What?!
CHANCE: Deal.
CHANCE: We need a doctor, for the kids especially.
CHANCE: We’ll try to get somebody out there who isn’t associated with the lab for our healthcare stuff, but…
CHANCE: It wouldn’t hurt to have someone who knows what’s been done to us.
CHANCE: I think so, at least. Suplex, what do you think?
MAY: ...I need to mull it over.
MAY: They can tag along for now. If they get us out, I’ll think about it.
FULLER: Fine.

FULLER: There’s a safe room that I keep stocked with medical equipment and supplies a bit further on.
FULLER: We can stop there.
FULLER: I want to do a full examination of each of you, and get a feeling for what strengths and weaknesses this group has.
FULLER: If we’re lucky, the Director will assume we’re all dead by the time we’re ready to move on, and just give up on the whole chase.

They look a lot less certain than they’d like to be.

FULLER: Hopefully.
FULLER: Now, do you have any other questions for me?
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No. 941917 ID: 83bf07

Can you fight? If you have your back to the wall, can you protect the kids?
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No. 941924 ID: b5bc34

Uh, what do you do exactly? Like, medical stuff, but what have you really practiced and what aren't you so sure about? It'd help to know what we can rely on you for.
Then, how do you know so much about money if you were stuck here too?
And why do you now want to get out if you could have probably left whenever?

And Chance. It's come up a little before but I'm really glad we took a... That we gave you a shot. It wasn't for the best reason but you're a big part of why this is working and why I've worked to be better. Thanks.
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No. 942614 ID: a627e3

other then how to dismantle this place brick by brick so no one has to go through this crap ever again? other then how we can get the other Maybe-cats out of here? not really. what about Chance and the others?
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No. 945382 ID: 473826

>>941916
I think we should keep going by Suplex for now. We'll go by May once we've escaped, and, preferably, wiped the tiniest fragment of this Silent Hill Otherworld nightmare from all planes of existence. Suplex is who we are and were. When we escape, no longer her shall we be. Our name, and who we are, when we've freed ourselves of this place - it's gonna be May.


Anyway, as for questions,
-How long is the trek to Mockery?
-Got anything we could hide under/wear that matches the scenery for camouflage? Could be useful if we need to hunt for food or in case they've got scouts or drones that survey the land.
-Got any ranged weapons, or are we stuck with a couple of shock sticks and my teeth?
-Can I make this "money" using horniness, too?

Just a mild question - why'd Suplex's appearance change from "weird tooth goblin" at the beginning to "weird cat-dog" about halfway through?
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