>Sami doesn't know what to do.
Okay. Let's address concerns:

>NO! Amy you don't understand, I'll kill you!
Getting a surprise attack in on a bard is very different that dealing with a fighter (or two fighters) who are expecting it if you try something. You won't catch Amy or Skyia undefended as easy as the Piper.

Plus, we're here this time. I promise if you do try to kill anyone, we'll stop you. We'll trick the monster with illusions, or cheat the dice of fate so you miss your marks. If it comes to a fight, we'll make sure the monster doesn't win it.

>[Amy] repulsed by her transformation
You were attracted to her, despite the oddities of her appearance. Or maybe because of them. If that comes from fae heritage, it stands to reason she might be similar.

>>672612
I'd say she should go now. Get it over with, instead of spending the whole meal fretting and panicking and not really tasting the food.

Smik 2015/09/26(Sat)14:34 No. 672902 ID: 3009b4
File 144330324654.jpg - (431.33KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_44.jpg )

Deciding to get it over with, Sami lets Amy lead her down from her home to the Welser river, which flows down past Ronnalin -- the same one that the Piper tried to drown her in and when her life went to hell.

Sami: I don't want to do this.

Amy: I know, but you NEED to do this. You need this.

Sami: Let me strip down then. When I transformed as a child it ruined my clothes and I don't have spares.

Amy smirks and tells her to go right ahead.

Sami scowls: It's NOT sexy.

Sami tentatively puts her foot in the water. It's cold, she begins to tremble to the point where she can barely stand. Amy puts her hand on Sami's shoulder. She removes her skirt to keep it from getting wet, and then begins to guide Sami into the water. Sami grips her arm tightly, clearly afraid -- but Amy stands firm.

Smik 2015/09/26(Sat)14:36 No. 672905 ID: 3009b4
File 144330338893.jpg - (443.90KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_45.jpg )

As they get waist-deep in the water, Sami can feel her heart pound and a tingling sensation spark through her body, strongest in her extremities but slowly moving inwards.

She looks at her hand as claws begin to form.

Sami: Oh no.. no no no... NO NO NO...

Amy holds her firmly.

Amy: I want you to close your eyes and listen to my voice. Let the change happen. Don't fight it. I'm here, and I won't let you hurt anyone.

Sami is shaking so hard she can barely keep her footing as the tingling reaches her heart.

Animated Smik 2015/09/26(Sat)14:37 No. 672907 ID: 3009b4
File 144330344609.gif - (759.51KB , 640x720 , Sami_Amy_RiverForm.gif )

Sami: I swear... I swear I was a scary fucking monster last time.

Amy's kiss is incredibly warming and exhilarating.

Sami doesn't understand what happened to her body or what is happening as her lips press against Amy's. The rush of trying something forbidden that feels so natural and safe fills her with butterflies and her head with lights.

When Amy finally pulls back for a breath Sami is speechless. She smiles.

Amy: Those are very full breasts you have now.

Sami looks confused, but rather than explaining Amy simply moves in for another kiss, and another. Sami feels her hot breath on her neck and continues to shake as she kisses it and nibbles her gently.

Even though her body feels healthier and stronger than it's ever been, she can barely keep herself steady as Amy moves to her ear, gently brushing her teeth against it and causing Sami to moan.

She kisses Sami again, and then begins to move down her body. As she kneels in the water, her long, agile tongue dancing down Sami's chest, she pauses and looks up.

Amy: All for me, huh? You're very generous, Sami.

*Private*
Huh. This might be one of the earlier stages of metamorphosis.

...Let's leave these two alone, shall we?
*/Private*

**********************



ADMIN YORICK: Are you happy Audrey? They did it.

:iconaudrey.png:
ADMIN Audrey: Awww, it's so beautiful it's like catnip! I love you all!


**********************

Sami and Amy lie in each other's arms with their feet dangling in the riverside. Sami's not quite sure what happened, but she's glowing from what she's pretty sure was her first ever real orgasm.

Sami: Amy? What happened?

Amy grins.

Amy: Well, we both had a VERY good time. Sounds like the first time for you.

Sami: I'm no virgin.

Amy stretches.

Amy: I mean your first orgasm.

Sami blushes, and something strikes her. It was the first time she ever felt such an incredible rush since her very first transformation. Nothing since -- not drugs, not alcohol and not men -- have matched it. Although she will admit that the hunter trite and stout men she had been with came close. But they just couldn't compare to Amy... there was a patience and a tenderness that she hadn't experienced before with anyone else.

Sami: What happened to me, I mean? My body? It's different, and nothing like the first time I transformed. What did you mean 'all for me'?

Amy gives Sami a sweet, loving smile: There is a huge difference between a transformation for hate and a transformation for love. Fae -- especially water fae -- take on forms to be appealing to their lovers. I think it's because water is flexible and adaptable. Didn't anyone mention that? Surely in lore or warnings -- when a water fae isn't looking for love they are incredibly dangerous.

Sami: No, we really didn't talk about that.

Amy: Well, Mother made sure I knew. Lonely girls like me would be very vulnerable to them.

Sami stares at Amy wide-eyed.

Sami: Wait -- so I WAS a threat? My fae water form could have...

Amy wraps her arms around Sami's neck: No, I knew you were safe. I don't have my mother's vision but I do have a sense of what's a threat. I could smell your desire and you're definitely a good person.

Sami stares at Amy. Something inside overwhelms her and her eyes well up with tears. Amy is surprised and concerned.

Amy: Sami! What's wrong?

Sami's voice quivers: I don't know.

Amy: You... regret?

Sami breaks into sobs: No! I'm not sad! I'm... happy... and confused... and I don't know why I'm crying.

Amy holds her.

Amy: It's been an ordeal, hasn't it? It's probably just a release, although I THOUGHT I took care of that.

She holds Sami until she begins to calm down.

Sami: I think it was because you said I was a good person.

Amy gives her a quizzical look.

Sami: I don't think I believed it until now.

>>672907
...oh hey. Prehensile hair? Neat.

>There is a huge difference between a transformation for hate and a transformation for love. Fae -- especially water fae -- take on forms to be appealing to their lovers. I think it's because water is flexible and adaptable.
>I don't think I believed it until now.
We could have pushed more on the monster inside issue earlier, but I'm not sure you would have believed before.

>sexytimes
>her parents are probably waiting for you to show up to dinner
>they're totally gonna know what happened
Ahahaheheh. Hopefully this won't get awkward.

>>672928
They'd be fools not to expect pretty much exactly what did happen, I wouldn't worry about more than gentle teasing.

It seems to me that now would be the best time to hug her. As an added plus, you could make a comment about wanting to finally "see what happens" when you do.

Admittedly, you already experienced the best possible outcome, but maybe..?

so, amy is into pink hair?

Huh, and here I thought it was just that anger would bring out the Fright of the form. Guess it's more that you can just customize it based on your desires! ...I didn't even know that that would be possible for anything not defined as a "Shape shifter."
Her sudden grip upon you was necessary to hinder the hatred this "First time," but I wonder if now that you've experienced the transformation in a more benevolent way, can you keep calm during a change?

I think you two make a cute couple. Now then, About that food...

Just so you know, I haven't been able to check in in a while, but I think the coin we're in is probably meant to deal with the Piper, even though he's already kind of mostly dead.

//private: I think meeting the parents went better than expected xD also MEAT

Smik 2015/09/28(Mon)16:44 No. 673505 ID: 3009b4
File 144348386435.jpg - (546.81KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_47.jpg )

*************

AWARDS:
+10 For Learning Amy's Story
+25 For Obtaining Friend
+25 for Love Scene (Audrey's special award)

Upgrades:
* Sami's Trust is now Maximum.
* Sami has overcome her fear of water and fae blood -- she is still aprehensive around it due to her history but it's no longer a fear.
* Sami feels less guilty and will be able to sleep better.


***********

After a little more cuddling, Sami and Amy get dressed and head back to her home. Skyia and George have prepared a large meal with some sort of roast beast. Sami doesn't recognize it, so it must be something her people won't hunt but Skyia will. Judging by the size of the roast, it's dangerous.

When George gives Sami a stern look that makes her shrink a bit, Skyia flicks his ear.

Skyia: Our daughter is a grown woman and very capable of taking care of herself. You'll always be daddy, don't worry.

Sami and Amy both flush while her father sighs.

George starts to say something but Skyia brushes her fingertips across his lips and he's quiet. It's not magic beyond what the right woman can do to a man.

Skyia: Anyhow, this is a Mericudian recipe I really like. I don't suppose you've ever had brined meat before, Sami?

Sami is delighted: Actually yes I have -- it's really good! I was taught to hunt by a man from Mericudia.

Skyia is happily surprised.

Skyia: You're a hunter too? You're a *very* unusual Rollen, even considering your bloodline. I imagine you would have to be a lot braver than normal all things considered. You're a lot like George when he was your age.

She glances over at George who offers a sheepish grin and a warmer glance at Sami.

George: I suppose so. I'm just glad there's lots of chestnuts; too much valram gives me gout.

Sami is shocked (*Valrams are basically a cross between a rhino and a moose with powerful bodies, hides like a honey badger, savage bites, and a nasty temperament. Typically it's only eaten by Mericudians who set up clever traps or use their specialized weapons*) but Amy smiles.

Amy: Mother and I took it down about a month ago; it was rutting too close to the town's fields. Gets gamey at this time of year but the brine will take care of that. Too bad we were only able to salvage half the carcass.

Sami cocks her head to one side.

Amy: You probably don't want to know how we killed it.

Sami: I ate someone alive when I was 8.

Skyia: A combination of luring, disorienting poison and crushing until one of its bones pierced something vital. Their hides do pretty well against blades, spears, and bolts but it doesn't help against being coiling pressure. The problem with this technique is that there's issues with the stomach juices and such and the head's no good either due to the poison. A bit of luck with how the pressure goes. Normally I would try to just strangle it but this one was feisty and I'm not as strong as I used to be.

Sami nods as she's familiar with field dressing. They talk a little shop but Sami notices George's expression and she's reminded what's normal for her culture.

They settle down for the meal. The brine did its job beautifully and the salty, flavourful meat is a joy to Sami's palate. They have casual conversation about Welser and Sami learns that over time a lot of the corruption in its ruling class has died out. There is concern that the next generation of leaders might not be so eager to honor the agreements between Skyia and the current mayor, so Amy is working to establish some more positive relationships between their and the people.

Eventually things turn to Sami's transformation in the water. Skyia is eager to know how it turns out and the younger women exchange the bashful glances of new lovers.

Skyia: There's no need to be shy about it. I didn't think I'd ever have grandchildren... unless... you maybe got a little something extra, Sami?

Sami stares at her.

Skyia: Ah, that's a no then. You have to understand I know more about unseelie water fae than your lineage would be comfortable talking about. Of my people, the most flexible are that of water. Shape-shifting is common, but more potent within the depths, and that includes gender.

Sami's jaw loosens as she continues to stare at her.

Skyia: And this is why it probably wasn't talked about. If you don't know about it, you can't reveal it.

Amy: I'm sorry Mother, but Sami's breasts got larger. I'm afraid I'm a *dedicated lesbian*.

George looks at Sami with a raised eyebrow.

Sami: It's not like I had control over it! I'm just glad I didn't turn into a monster!

Skyia laughs.

Skyia: Don't be silly, Sami -- you think I'd let my only child go down and trigger a change if I didn't think it was safe? There's many factors -- you're an adult now, you're not under threat of death, nobody is hurting people you care about, and you clearly have special feelings for Amy.

Sami looks at her food: ... speaking of which... are you gonna make us get married?

Amy goes bright red while George and Skyia burst into peals of laughter.

George: Well I doubt we'd find any church that would conscend. But what we've heard about faeries taking mortal lovers is pretty far off.

Skyia: You don't need to get married, you're mortal. Marriage is only something fae do if we find ourselves in love. Dying bound to your love is better than dying slowly from grief. Also intimacy does not equate to true love. George and I experimented quite a bit with sex before...

Both George and Amy give Skyia a look of horror.

Skyia: It's not as if we were blessed with Amy by magic! Although I have to admit, her conception was...

This time George brushes his fingtertips against Skyia's mouth. Her eyes shine while she grins mischievously.

Amy whispers to Sami: ... and this is why half-bloods have a reputation for being addled. It's from growing up with a fae parent. Or having to hide who you are all the time. Mostly the fae parent. I know far too much about about Mother's sex life despite Father's best efforts.

Amy now more audible: So tomorrow we'll visit the labs? Or did you want to pick up supplies first?

Sami: I'm not sure yet.

Amy: Out of curiosity, is there any place to bathe in Ronnalin other than the river?

Sami: It's pretty bad with all the vermin, I wouldn't want to try. Wait... you're coming with me?

George: Amy?! You're not thinking of...

Amy's tone is one of closed discussion: I'm going to Ronnalin with Sami, yes.

Skyia nods at Amy, beaming with proud approval. Amy smiles back, glowing with her mother's confidence and turns to her father and Sami to see if they will dare challenge them and they do not.

AMY has joined the adventure!

** AMY cannot hear suggestions directly but her mother Skyia will provide her with a similar mirror to the one that Billy gave Sami when they go to Ronnalin, and this mirror can be accessed by the party. On that note, it should be mentioned that the party may give Amy suggestions via Sami's mirror -- but avoid doing this in public as Sami has to use the voice phrase to activate it, and Billy wants her to keep it a secret for a reason! While in Ronnalin the mirrors can be used freely as there are no witnesses. Sami will explain the spirits to Amy during their pillow talk tonight as it's a given that she will be sleeping with Amy in her room (George is the only person with reservations about this but he's her father and it's expected).**

Over coffee and brandy, Sami will explain to her hosts about the wild spirits following her. Skyia makes a comment that normally wild spirits are considered a major threat but since she's more or less abandoned the faerie courts she long stopped quite caring about what 'the established truths and laws are'. You may ask questions to Skyia, George or Amy, and then need to decide either to get supplies or visit the labs first tomorrow.

"Well, Bill will be amused, and probably relieved, when we go to visit him. Are you by chance familiar?"

>hunting shop talk
Wow, you are scoring points left and right here. I said it before: keep em.

>Skyia makes a comment that normally wild spirits are considered a major threat
I'm not sure why. We don't have much power in and of ourselves. Our greatest strengths are really information gathering and advising / planning. I would have thought a sufficiently prepared fae could have countermeasures for our tricks, and could put a host in a situation where they could wear them down, and cleverness would not win out.

I suppose the biggest reason we're dangerous is most beings don't expect us. We catch them off guard. They just see the person we're helping, and underestimate them.

>questions
Traveling someone else raises a question about your instruments. Can you be selective with targeting, or does it affect everyone in range? Amy is potentially at risk from friendly fire from the Piper's flute. (Although I don't think opening locks would do anything to her, and we'd want to use the axe on golems, which are the bigger threat).

Not sure if plugging ears works against magical music. (Amy's animate hair would sure be handy there).

There is also the question of the axe. It would be nice if you could find someone who might be willing to give an out of towner a few lessons, so you could use it. (I would advise practicing on a mundane instrument).

>decide either to get supplies or visit the labs first tomorrow
Labs first. What we learn might affect our shopping list.

This could go badly, we need more allies. Ask around if the scientists have developed a curse-resistant golem after ten years of research and development. Nothing serious, a flowerpot-sized scout bot would do; Skyia will likely dote on your adventure and having a stable connection beyond your normal capabilities might help her get to Ronnalin on time if something goes wrong.

Also, cheese. You need to buy cheese.

Conversation with Skyia (primarily) Smik 2015/09/28(Mon)19:36 No. 673532 ID: 3009b4
File 144349421073.jpg - (502.48KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_48.jpg )

>"Well, Bill will be amused, and probably relieved, when we go to visit him. Are you by chance familiar?"

Skyia: Billy Phooka? I haven't heard that name in years, not since... well...

She glances at George and they exchange warm smiles.

Skyia: Since George and I were married. I purposely dropped contact except for a report once a year. The less the courts know about how I do things now, the better.

Sami asks if the reason why he's so interested in romance is because of her. She relates how Billy was almost creepily interested in Sami's dating life as well as what had happened between her and George. As Sami talks Skyia raises an eyebrow which then melts into a bemused expression.

Skyia: Sounds like George is in a place I was oh... maybe thirty years ago. Curious about love. It's not considered 'normal' for fae to feel love like mortals do. Fae -- Unseelie especially -- consider it a mystery that mortals should leave themselves so vulnerable to emotions like love considering it only worsens their survival chances. I'll leave it to your discretion if you tell him or not about what I'm doing now. I highly doubt the Seelie Court will try to take my position back, but I guess it is time he know about the fact that sooner or later, I will die with George. I'm not about to just have Amy to take my place, she doesn't need to get mixed up in politics. So I will need to be replaced. Someone's got to keep the powerful in line so they don't forget that no matter how untouchable they are to their own people... there's always someone to answer to.

>I'm not sure why. We don't have much power in and of ourselves.

Skyia: That's easy -- nobody can kill wild spirits. We can't erase what they know, and since nothing in this world affects them their motivations are their own. They can use what they know to cause a lot of trouble and there's nothing anyone can do to stop them. They're even more dangerous than Cats, who at least are still tied to this world. The fact that the Cats associate with them is odd and not understood.

>Can you be selective with targeting, or does it affect everyone in range? Amy is potentially at risk from friendly fire from the Piper's flute.
>There is also the question of the axe.

George speaks up.

George: I'm familiar with artifact instruments, and I can tell you that knowing what's coming makes a huge difference. The charming songs can be resisted if you know what they are. It takes a concentrated effort though.

Skyia: AND you have to WANT to resist it. When George charmed me, I found it... thrilling. I didn't want to resist, I wanted to be carried away. *she shivers*. It was so dangerous and he...

George goes beet red as Skyia sways and her hair flows like in a summer breeze.

Skyia: It was worth being put in a vulnerable position. And in other positions.

George clears this throat. Skyia flicks her long tongue in his direction.

George: Heh... like I said. It can be resisted. I'm... guessing Amy could be affected by the Piper's flute but if she knows the purpose of the song you play she should be able to shake it off. The thing about using music is that it's a powerful suggestion. It invokes emotions, speaks to the dream, but it really only lets you manipulate people when they're not suspecting it or when they want to. Sometimes the illusion is sweeter than life.

Sami nods grimly, knowing by experience.

A thought strikes her.

Sami: Wait, Amy said she's 23. The disaster happened ten years ago -- but you've been in Welser for how long? Ma'm, I thought Billy said you replaced the Piper?

Skyia: The territory was a shared control between the courts. When the Piper was slain instead of being replaced by another Seelie, they lost political control over the entire area as a punishment. He allowed the corruption of Welser to colour his decisions and he paid the price. The old me would have brought the matter to the courts as a point of concern. But the person I am now?

Her normally cheerful face darkens considerably and her tone disdainful and hateful.

Skyia: I would have never let him leave here alive.

She sighs and regains her composure.

Skyia: Motherhood changes people.

Skyia: What's your general long-term strategy for Welser? We'd like your opinion on how this town works and what can be done to ensure that it grows in that general direction.

Sami, anything you want to do before bed? You know, aside from the "bed integrity test".

>The fact that the Cats associate with them is odd and not understood.
Can't help you there, we don't understand that ourselves!

>Sounds like George is in a place I was oh... maybe thirty years ago. Curious about love
So... he'll stop being creepy and start being normal in a few decades?

>I'm familiar with artifact instruments
Does that mean he knows how to play a guitar? (Lessons lessons lessons).

>Motherhood changes people.
Not for the worse.

>Motherhood changes people.
>Not for the worse.
Now, if you had any familiarity whatsoever with the atrocity known as Honey Boo Boo you couldn't say that with a straight face, but let's not inflict horrific trivia from another world on these poor people.

So, yeah, if the piper bringing the vermin has something to do with the mayor of Welser, he may be implicated in the curse. That could also be a significant piece of the puzzle of how to resolve the Piper's place in the curse. We really should ask more about the local mayor and what these folks may know or suggest about that.

>>673553
...do I really have to specify not for the worse in this case? Are we being that pedantic?

>I highly doubt the Seelie Court will try to take my position back, but I guess it is time he know about the fact that sooner or later, I will die with George.
Would it help to get her in contact with Bill to discuss that? I don't know how dragons are chosen but making arrangements now might help weigh things towards a successor with some regard for mortal life.

>The fact that the Cats associate with them is odd and not understood.
I get the impression that the Cats are so supremely confident in their power (justifiably so from what we have seen so far) that they don't really feel a need to worry much about what spirits might do.

*Private*
Does Amy have a plot armor amount we can measure?

>Sounds like George is in a place I was
Typo

>>673532
Has anyone here, anyone at all, ever even heard of a pina colada!?

>The fact that the Cats associate with them is odd and not understood.
While it is difficult to harm us, rewarding us is possible, and they can influence our actions to a small degree by doing so. We may be disconnected from the world, but we greed is not wholey of the world.
Oh, and yes, difficult to harm us. We've been hurt before. It is slight, but it effects our mentality, one of our few possessions. Haven been charmed into possessing morality relating to mortals, I'm sure you understand the fright?

Smik 2015/09/29(Tue)15:26 No. 673786 ID: 3009b4
File 144356559108.jpg - (507.78KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_48b.jpg )

>We really should ask more about the local mayor and what these folks may know or suggest about that.

Skyia: Oh Mayor Harris likes to pretend to be this friendly old gentleman that only has the best interests of Welser in mind, but he's more like a leaper that's learned to protect its host so it's got an unlimited supply of blood. I don't know too much about how curses work and while I'm sure it'd be *interesting* to bring him to Ronnalin, since we've got him under our thumb I think we're overall better off with the devil we know than one we don't. Anyone filling the power vacuum needs to understand that there are repercussions for corruption. Harris is a skilled politician though so we allow him a few freedoms -- we just don't let him get his fingers into any muscle.

** Amy will allow herself to be scanned, additional information to follow **

Maybe we could make some progress by just asking this mayor, politely, to explain why it seemed like a good idea to make the piper do that. We could also ask if he has any words for the piper before we return to Ronnalin and ask the piper if he has any words for him. Really, everything to do with the curse we've discovered so far has been about people acting selfishly, greedily, or hiding in delusions one way or another: I'd expect this mayor has at least one illusion about what he did and why he did it to resolve.

AMY SCAN Smik 2015/09/29(Tue)21:32 No. 673861 ID: 3009b4
File 144358754667.jpg - (83.12KB , 640x720 , Amy v1000.jpg )

/* Author Note: Amy's new VN style doll is still being sketched; she's not talking naked */

Amy has allowed you to scan her.

Attributes

Intelligence – High; Amy's ability to learn, observe, detect patterns and remember them are on par with Sami.
Strength – Exceptional. Amy strength focuses on striking and constricting power. She can't carry heavy loads but she can snap an arm. She's much stronger than Sami overall.
Agility – Supernatural. She's flexible to the point of not only being quadruple-joined normally but she can temporarily shift her form that makes it impossible to bind her.
Speed – Above Average. She's on par with Sami.
Stamina – Excellent. Amy's metabolism is beyond normal analog constraints and heals well from wounds.
Resistances – Nearly immune to poison and she is subconsciously aware of hacks/TEN compatible networks, although she lacks a connection herself.

Special Abilities

Detection: She is instinctively aware of TEN compatible networks and devices, hacks, and fae.
Spit Venom: she needs to absorb poison to create her own.
Plot Armour: 50 PA.

NOTE: It is possible to apply Influence to protect Amy just as you do Sami.


OPTIONS

You may choose to dress Amy differently for the adventure (as in, draw on clothing; hence the paper doll). She will wear her cloak outside your selected wardrobe. Amy prefers soft, silken clothing or fabrics that stretch well so she can utilize her agility. If she does not like your selection she will reject it and stick with her default outfit.

kome 2015/09/29(Tue)21:50 No. 673866 ID: 2ccbb3
File 144358864417.jpg - (85.46KB , 640x720 , Ami Lite Armor.jpg )

Obviously this is a sucky drawing, but the point is to have Ami wear leather armor with some metal around the parts of her that aren't flexible. What do you think, can someone flesh it out?

Also I'm not going for a superhero look it's just that I suck at drawing.

Anon44!3UzRml1aAA 2015/09/29(Tue)21:51 No. 673867 ID: 1f8505
File 144358869007.png - (59.29KB , 476x704 , amy_outfit.png )

>>673861

From the Hanchett collection.

>wear leather armor

Amy doesn't like armour; it constricts her abilities. They're not going to find it on short notice either. Not only is armour only worn by military and guard, but Amy's taller than Rollen men but with wide hips so most armour wouldn't fit her well.

Sami could probably find armour that would fit her but since she's not used to wearing it, it would negatively impact her abilities including transformation.

sew a square of leather into the chest so it would be over your heart. wont help a lot of the time but it could do something.

Smik 2015/09/29(Tue)23:27 No. 673896 ID: 3009b4
File 144359442131.jpg - (86.16KB , 640x720 , Sami_VNv1000.jpg )

Sami can also get new clothing while in town. Normally Amy would make her some new clothes but they don't want to dally on her quest. Amy can make adjustments so they fit well.

>>673896
Bandages around the chest and a heavy coat and shorts. Put some metal plate inserts (or metal boxes with gadgets inside) inside the pockets as armor.

Smik 2015/10/03(Sat)15:11 No. 674668 ID: 3009b4
File 144391029349.jpg - (347.26KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_49.jpg )

The evening passes uneventfully with simple chit-chat between guest and hosts. The wine served is unusual and has a slight effect on Sami but she doesn't feel any need to get drunk. Apparently Skyia doesn't have any steadfast plan for Welser. She figures that they can't plan anything until they see who eventually replaces the mayor. George shows Sami a little with the Siren's Axe but it's clear from Sami's attempts that she's a long way from playing anything useful with it.

Later, they retire for the night. Amy's room is simple, and only one thing catches Sami's eye -- Amy has a bow longer than any Rollen would use. Sami asks her about it and Amy explains that she uses a weapon best suited for her height. They make love quietly and as discreetly as possible. Amy reveals that Sami is the first person she's made love to in her room as usually she has to be secretive and few villagers go near Skyia's lair. Sami sleeps soundly and peacefully for once.

The next morning, they make breakfast of the previous evening's leftovers along with fresh porridge before heading to the labs to see if anyone from Ronnalin is still working there.

Again, they are watched by the rest of the village, even more closely than before it seems. Amy whispers to Sami that this is one of the reasons why her affairs have always had to be so uncomfortably secretive. Sami is unhappy with the number of prying eyes but she's used to playing The Stranger in her travels.

When they reach the labs, a surprised assistant requests they wait outside while he fetches someone. A representative arrives and Sami asks him about scientists who originally worked in the Ronnalin labs. He's even more surprised at the request, but it's not long before an older man is standing before them.

Dr. Korez: Sami? Little Sami Jones?

Sami nods.

Sami: It's been ten years, Dr. Korez. How has your research gone?

Dr. Korez: Well enough I suppose, but I should ask how you've been. If you don't mind me saying my dear, you look rough.

Sami: Better than I have a few days earlier when I was visiting Ronnalin.

Dr. Korez: ... Ronnalin!? Why would you go back to that cursed place?

Sami: Drawn there. I've been haunted, and lifting the curse of my home town seems my best bet at finding some peace. I was hoping you could help.

Dr. Korez: Well, I'm not quite sure what I can do but if there's any questions I can answer I'd be happy to do so.

I guess the first question you should ask is about the state of the technology in Ronnalin, the Golems in particular. You need to deal with the fact that the wraiths in the area can "Jack-In" to the golems, turning broken-down farming equipment into nigh-unstoppable killing machines with the speed of a bird and the force of a rhino. If Dr. Korez has figured out ANYTHING about the corrupted golems, now's the time.

Second question to ask is how the research on the corruption has gone. If they haven't touched it due to security measures that's understandable, but given that you riled up the whole town you might need something to pacify or revert the tide.

We heard they did some research into the curse, and we also wanted to ask if they know anything about how to deal with the berserk golems that are still in Ronnalin.

Any advice about the current state and contents of the labs? Any information or guesses about particular greedy people whose hoarded wealth resulted in more cursed gold? Any guides or help for dealing with the vermin and the decay of the town other than finishing paying off the dead piper and getting him to pipe away the horde? Any information about what was left behind of value elsewhere in town?
Anything useful about the golems would be good, partciularly controlling them/using them/redirecting them, salvaging them or from them, disabling them, and fixing what's wrong with them.

>If Dr. Korez has figured out ANYTHING about the corrupted golems, now's the time.

Dr. Korez: Without going into technical details, we've discovered that under normal circumstances golems require two elements -- memories that act as instructions, and a source of power in the form of fae or pantheon pearls. It turns out that the memories the golems use are very specific -- golems get 'lost' if taken outside of the area they were trained in. We have a disturbing suspicion that these memories might come from our own citizens, which would explain why our farming golems worked so perfectly. We discovered that even inactive golems -- like a little toy golem we found in one of the digs -- became corrupted by the curse. We discovered that the curse has limited range, and apparently the superstition of spirits being unable to cross running water has some truth in it. Past the bridge, the toy golem became inactive again. For some reason the golem also only becomes active a night. We haven't researched this too thoroughly due to the risk involved -- too much experimentation seemed to attract multiple golems at once, but they never followed us past their boundaries.

Something we did notice is that merely bringing the golem into the boundaries of the curse did not activate it, even at night. The more we experimented however, the more quickly the golem would activate and eventually we noticed that the golems would begin to gather at our normal entry points and eventually they'd be active before the sun had set. Whatever the curse is, it has some sort of limited intelligence. We also discovered that the activation of the golem was accompanied by disturbances to light sources. Weak sources like candles would go out, stronger ones like lamps would flicker. Seems the superstition about candles also has some element of truth as well.

So far the only thing that controls the golems is that they are limited by boundaries.


>Any advice about the current state and contents of the labs?

Dr. Korez: We packed up most things of value. We left the dangerous or unstable chemicals such as the acids we were using in our battery experiments. We did finally get those electric lights to work, speaking of which. The other thing we were working on was a poison that would only work on vermin, but the polies are really resistant. Since we weren't very fond of carrying around poisons in case of a spill we left them behind.

>Any guides or help for dealing with the vermin and the decay of the town other than finishing paying off the dead piper and getting him to pipe away the horde?

Dr. Korez: Ghosts? That's outside our area of expertise.

>Any information about what was left behind of value elsewhere in town?

Dr. Korez: I know that the Merchant's Guild was evacuated rather quickly. They're the most likely to have left things behind.

>Anything useful about the golems would be good, partciularly controlling them/using them/redirecting them,

Dr. Korez: You've got the tool we were looking into right there -- the Siren's Axe. We had musicians play it but never could seem to get a reaction. Does it respond to you?

Sami: It seems to intensify emotional states.

Dr. Korez: Hmmm... perhaps that's why it never worked in the lab. Might have been too sterile an environment. Have you discovered anything else about it?

Sami: It's a surprisingly good weapon. I had to disarm someone who was living in town with it.

Dr. Korez raises and eyebrow and Sami explains -- in brief -- how she was able to get Nick away from town.

Dr. Korez: Yes, we noticed the same thing. People were hearing voices and whispers, even among the staff. Now that I think about it, that probably also explains why our electric light project was having so many difficulties. Hmmm...

Dr. Korez seems to have an idea.

Dr. Korez: Sami, are you going back to Ronnalin?

Sami nods. The doctor tells her if she's willing, they'd like her to test some equipment designed to detect the curse. He warns her that the same equipment might also *attract* the curse.

>>674718
Thank the professor for his time.

So, should we lend him the flute and/or axe? They might learn something, or they might get killed. Your call.

>golems need memories
>We have a disturbing suspicion that these memories might come from our own citizens
How do golems get the memories they need to function in the first place? When you make one, you're not sure where they come from?

>The doctor tells her if she's willing, they'd like her to test some equipment designed to detect the curse. He warns her that the same equipment might also *attract* the curse.
We're interested, at least. What can he tell us about this equipment?

Worst case, if we can't operate the equipment in town due to too much curse attention, we might be forced to retreat and cache it outside.

>How do golems get the memories they need to function in the first place? When you make one, you're not sure where they come from?

Golems are not Rollen technology. The golems themselves are excavated artifacts that traders -- usually associated with the Pantheon -- get running.

>We're interested, at least. What can he tell us about this equipment?

The equipment appears to be some batter-powered lamps they've devised. They're not large or powerful, but they'll flicker and short out if spirits are near. They'll just need a day to get them prepared.

>>674725
Just curse spirits? Other spirits don't effect them?

I wonder what data they're trying to gather- just that the detectors work? I'd previously though the curse suffused the effected area, but it would be an interesting discovery if they're only in certain places at a time.

>>674725
... What the hell do you mean by "Batter-powered"?

You probably mean battery. So, has anyone here discovered solar panels? It's like how plants grow by using the sun, but with chemical processes transferring power from sunlight into an electrical current.

How about modified lenses that project a wavelength that dissuades vermin or wraiths?

We could use the ability to draw the spirits to one place while going somewhere else if it turns out these lamps draw spirits. Are we really sure it's the lamps that were drawing the spirits instead of the people though? Light should metaphysically banish the dark fears and darker emotions that are tied up in the curse though, I'd normally expect. Also, experience to date of exploring the town suggests that Sami herself has drawn the attention of cursed spirits. (This may be more or less true now that she is coming to terms with her lack of constructive responsibility in the crisis and disaster.) We don't know if that's true, how true, why true, or how to disprove it. This means we need a test protocol to isolate and measure any attractive or repulsive effects of the lamps themselves distinct from the people running the test, possibly involving remote or timer switches and spyglass observation. Do these technicians have anything in mind or will we have to improvise?
Also, is there anyone else in town these folks particularly recommend speaking to either for help or because of their connection to town?

Smik 2015/10/04(Sun)12:38 No. 674795 ID: 3009b4
File 144398749812.jpg - (438.93KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_50.jpg )

>I wonder what data they're trying to gather- just that the detectors work? I'd previously though the curse suffused the effected area, but it would be an interesting discovery if they're only in certain places at a time.

They're pretty sure the detectors work, but one thing they don't know is if the curse really is only in certain places at a time. It could be that the curse is simply made up of malignant spirits that have a limited range, or it could be that the curse is everywhere but has to concentrate itself to act.

>Just curse spirits? Other spirits don't effect them?

They don't know. If other spirits affect the golems they're nowhere near as easily detected because they're not as obviously malicious.

>You probably mean battery. So, has anyone here discovered solar panels? It's like how plants grow by using the sun, but with chemical processes transferring power from sunlight into an electrical current.

*It was a typo*

They're just figuring out reliable batteries right now. The only reason why they even began research is that they're hoping to discover alternative power sources for the golems rather than relying on fae and pantheon traders. They don't quite know that the batteries work by stripping electrons from one metal to another, but they do understand that the chemicals mix in a way that it transfers energy from one element to another. Their light bulbs are apparently filled with salt water and there's no wire involved -- two unknown types of metal are fitted into the bulb and apparently an electric current leaps between them. The main hazard with these bulbs is that they can burst sending extremely hot water everywhere, so the current safety method is to encase the bulb within another bulb.

The batteries are expensive but if Sami can deliver some reliable data as to how curse impacts them, it could be possible to eventually modify the elements to create a spirit detection system. Such early-warning would be invaluable to Rollen as it means they'd finally be able to tell when spirits are approaching.

>This means we need a test protocol to isolate and measure any attractive or repulsive effects of the lamps themselves distinct from the people running the test, possibly involving remote or timer switches and spyglass observation. Do these technicians have anything in mind or will we have to improvise?
Also, is there anyone else in town these folks particularly recommend speaking to either for help or because of their connection to town?

If Sami is willing to undergo some scientific training she can help them run a more controlled experiment. They'll send scientists with her to the outskirts of town and observe, but they don't have any reliable means of really getting a good look of what's going on without putting themselves in danger. If Sami intends to place herself in such danger anyway, then she can record her observations and they'll be able to form more complete data. They're willing to pay for this research, but their budget is still pretty limited (as always for Scientific research).

If Sami isn't willing to put herself into too much danger, then she can still take samples for them. They have various suspicions about how various materials will react to the presence of Curse, spirits and such and all she'd have to do is take said materials into town and record her observations. If she's willing to do a lot of research for them, they'll send a small team to set up camp in a safe zone outside of Ronnalin so she can just go back and forth between town and camp until all the data is collected.

They can budget up to 50 Sterling for this project (this is 5 Crowns or about $5,000 modern value), but they might be able to get a better budget if the initial results are promising.

As to who you could talk to in terms of getting help, Doctor Korez suggests speaking to the mayor -- he might be very interested in technology that could help detect spirits and the therefore the town from their influence.

Dr. Korze: No offence to your family, Amy.

Amy: No, I understand Doctor. And I think you're right, I think we should speak with the mayor about this situation. He should be very interested in increasing your funding for this project, especially consider how fortunate he is to have Sami and I available as researchers.

Amy and Sami bid the doctor good-day and then she turns to Sami.

Amy: Sami, I think we should have a nice, "quiet" chat with the mayor. Considering his involvement in this mess to begin with I think I should be able to convince him that he should pony up the funds required to pay for some research. I'm sure his real interest will be discovering some sort of weakness in my family so he can take control back, but he's too ignorant to realize that we're not all cut from the same cloth, and besides if it ever comes to that Mother will just kill him.

Sami gets a feeling that 'quiet chat' means polite conversation laden with veiled threats.

Amy: Did you want to do some shopping first? Don't take this the wrong way love, but I think we might want to get you out of those dirty traveller's clothes before meeting anyone with political weight -- even if he is scum. If you're dead set against changing that's OK, it's not as if anyone appreciates my sense of style either. It's up to you my love.

>Sami gets a feeling that 'quiet chat' means polite conversation laden with veiled threats.
Considering his past involvement in the mess that basically ruined your life, I don't think that should bother you overmuch.

>If Sami is willing to undergo some scientific training she can help them run a more controlled experiment.
I think the obvious question from Sami's perspective is how long that would take, though more broadly I'd say learning is a good thing.

I do know some of us spirits are scientifically trained, although we're really only in a position to make recommendations on methodology. Not in a good position for recording data. (Though I suppose we could dictate notes / observations to be transcribed later).

>They don't know. If other spirits affect the golems they're nowhere near as easily detected because they're not as obviously malicious.
If they have any of this equipment set up, the obvious first test is to see if we ping it at all. If we're 'loud' enough we might render the equipment useless, or we might need to recalibrate it to account for us, or simply establish a baseline reading for operating in the presence of wild spirits.

>They'll send scientists with her to the outskirts of town and observe, but they don't have any reliable means of really getting a good look of what's going on without putting themselves in danger. If Sami intends to place herself in such danger anyway, then she can record her observations and they'll be able to form more complete data
Is using a phantasm to covert spirit data into something observable to mortal eyes an option? Not so sure we can use it for ranged communication (or if we can even effect anyone other than Sami), but we can display spiritual stuff she wouldn't otherwise see.

>Such early-warning would be invaluable to Rollen as it means they'd finally be able to tell when spirits are approaching.
I'd say this is a worth cause worthy of our trying to help, although there is the consideration we're ultimately trying to break the curse. We don't have an indefinite amount of time to experiment, and there's a limit to how much we can get done.

>Did you want to do some shopping first?
Another reason to get your shopping done first is you might find it harder to do after threatening the mayor (if he has friends, allies, or subordinates among the merchants who might react poorly) or after it becomes known you have expedition funding behind you (they'll try harder to gouge you if they know you have the money for it).

These guys are smart. I recommend they get to work on designing a plastic or rubber bulb (or ANY substance that is both transparent and flexible) that only illuminates a fraction of their regular lightbulbs but is less likely to crack and explode into scalding salt water and glass fragments.

The detectors don't sound reliable but they'll be better than nothing. Do the scientists have a general plan for using any samples they get to increase the effectiveness of the ghost detector?

Wait. Maybe you could try it on the coin, see what happens? You know, while you're in a secure lab and all.

Scientific analysis would best be done in a stationary lab. I suggest that you collect samples in Ronnalin, and hire a research outfit when you find a safe place for the scientists to live and work in, probably the Merchant's Guild Fortress. The church is a no-go for obvious reasons, but you and Amy should be able to use it as a safehouse for 6 out of 7 days.

Negotiating with the mayor sounds effective. He'll probably have more money than intel and will invest in your operations, possibly with the intent to screw you over. Skyia said she had him under control, so who cares.

And as for the shopping, I suggest you get everything while the markets are awake, store it at Amy's house, and meet the Mayor right before dinner.

Also, ask Skyia what the Mayor's home defense systems are like. If he doesn't have any real political connections like she said then that means that his bite is worse than his bark.

>...possibly with the intent to screw you over. Skyia said she had him under control, so who cares.

They spoke for some time and Sir George learned about the council corruption -- that the corrupt city guard would blackmail or press false charges on strangers or new merchants. She also told him that the Mayor had met the Piper, who offered to rid them of their vermin problem. When he was successful, not only was he paid but the Mayor asked if he might charm the vermin to the wealthier town of Ronnalin, to which the Piper complied and his fee was paid twice.
You're thinking too short-term, and overestimating Skyia's grasp of all the administrative, legalistic, social, political and financial things the mayor could do. At the end of the curse-curing and vermin-clearing process, what will we have on our hands? We will almost certainly have a settled town on our hands. When dealing with one of those questions of loan terms, investment agreements, trade terms, quotas, taxation, protection agreements, development and maintenance deals, and other such political-economic or political-military positions, deals and guarantees can all make or break the future town. Right now there's nobody at all there and a slick and sly crook can offer us an innocuous--even advantageous--looking deal that ends up sabotaging the town and/or enriching him disproportionately. We really don't want to let this guy have much say in the future of Ronnalin because the last time he had anything to say on the matter it was, "Die!" and then precisely that happened.

I would like to look into suing him for the damages to the town but I'm not confident that's even possible, let alone a good idea. We also have to be realistic about the fact that Ronnalin is currently a haunted, infested and abandoned ruin. Worse, we don't know if this guy is so much of a horrible shithead that he would try to kill us because the rebirth of Ronnalin might threaten his wealth, reputation, and other interests. I think the main reason we have to deal with this guy is not trying to shake money out of him so much as the fact that his direct and contributory responsibility in the death of Ronnalin is significant. My guess is that he is a part of the curse.

>plastic or rubber bulb
Considering that their make overheats the water to the point of it exploding... It's not a danger of electrocution, but of overheating. Plastic and rubber can melt. Let's let them to their research as it is right now.

>>674795
> If she's willing to do a lot of research for them, they'll send a small team to set up camp in a safe zone outside of Ronnalin so she can just go back and forth between town and camp until all the data is collected.
This seems like a very good idea. Sami's limitation in Ronnalin was food and safe shelter. Having a camp set up outside where she can sleep and retrieve food would be perfect.

Smik 2015/10/09(Fri)12:17 No. 675616 ID: 3009b4
File 144441823229.jpg - (428.06KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_51.jpg )

>And as for the shopping, I suggest you get everything while the markets are awake, store it at Amy's house, and meet the Mayor right before dinner.

Amy suggests that if they're going to meet with the mayor then Sami needs new clothes. Amy leads her to the market to where the tailors are.

Amy, holding up a man's shirt over Sami: I think you'd look good in this.

Sami: That's a man's shirt, Amy.

Amy blushes: I know. I kinda fancy you in men's clothing.

Sami raises a curious eyebrow at Amy, who shrinks away shyly in response. Sami offers a warm smile and puts a hand on Amy's shoulder to let her know it's OK, but Amy is still flushed and despite her silly grin she only stares at her feet.

Sami has more than enough cash to afford new clothes. She considers getting some men's clothing just for Amy's benefit and private viewing, but she needs to think about what might hold more tactical advantage for meeting the mayor.

****

The options, as Sami sees them:
A. Don't change.
B. Wear men's clothes (Amy's choice).
C. Wear lady's clothes (Sami will dress herself).
D. Wear lady's clothes (Amy's choice).

Sami plans on letting Amy pick out a set of men's clothing for her unless someone has a good argument against it. She's never been in a serious relationship, let alone one with another woman, and while Sami's fearful of using the l-word she would say she feels very strongly for Amy and wants to make her happy.

A bit of fear prickles at the back of Sami's skull as she realizes that this special person, capable of bringing life back into the dead bits in her, is going to be accompanying her to a cursed town that has already demonstrated a variety of ways it can destroy someone.

Well~

Let's B cool with whatever she wants then.

>>675616
Your choice, Sami. But if you want opinions,

Inner: Feminine Underwear and Shirt/Dress
Outer: Masculine Jacket and Pants.
Let Amy decide if she wants to select the Inner or Outer clothing, you choose the other stuff.

>That's a man's shirt
Pff. Nothing wrong with that.

>Dress A B C or D
...dressup montage?

>she needs to think about what might hold more tactical advantage for meeting the mayor
Well, the whole point is to be intimidating. Two big scary half-fae bringing not-very veiled threats to get what you want. Dressing in a manner that marks you as a little strange or other probably only helps.

>A bit of fear prickles at the back of Sami's skull as she realizes that this special person, capable of bringing life back into the dead bits in her, is going to be accompanying her to a cursed town that has already demonstrated a variety of ways it can destroy someone.
We'll do everything to protect her, as we would for you.

...this does raise a question I was meaning to ask you, though. How important is it that you go back? You made the choice the first time out of desperation, driven by grief and something of a self destructive impulse. How willing are you to face that now that you know you're not monster? That you found people who accept you for who you are? That you have someone to live for?

It's a worthy cause, yes, but you're allowed to stop and ask yourself if it's really worth it to you.

Smik 2015/10/13(Tue)18:37 No. 676316 ID: 3009b4
File 144478664636.jpg - (383.08KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_52.jpg )

>Let's B cool with whatever she wants then.

Amy chooses a simple shirt and black pants for Sami.

She will wear this for her meeting with the mayor, but before they plan on the approach, some sort of plan needs to be hashed out first.

Sami recognizes that despite Skyia and Amy's claims of domination, there's a chance that the mayor may be aware that Skyia is not as strong as she used to be. Rollen is no country of fools and if the mayor's been allowed to live he's more than likely had time to learn, too.

The following things need to be decided upon as Sami sees them:

1. Should Sami bring the Siren's Axe?

The Siren's Axe offers both LEGITIMACY and LIABILITY. On one hand, it's a powerful artifact found within Ronnalin that could give credibility to Sami and provide incentive to clear the town. On the other hand, Sami is aware of how it seems to heighten her emotions and she also knows the mayor was involved with the disaster. It could hinder negotiations if she can't keep her feelings in check but it's also a powerful weapon if things do go sour.

2. Should they be DIRECT or DECEPTIVE? If they are DIRECT then they will be more honest -- letting him know what they know (and threatening as required) or they could play DECEPTION and exaggerate/leave out elements as required.

3. Should they be appeal to FEAR or to GREED? They can either persuade the mayor that assisting them is for his own good or that he could gain to benefit from his assistance.

4. Should AMY do more of the talking or should SAMI? AMY knows the mayor better, but Sami knows the situation in Ronnalin better and more importantly, she looks 'normal' except for her eyes.

If you have any information requests, please let Sami know now so she and Amy can look into them in advance. She is also willing to entertain the idea of just threatening the mayor outright, but there needs to be a good reason or some detective work done to justify this.

1. Have Skyia or George hold on to the axe and wait at the entrance. No need to leave it at the house but keep it away from your hands until you know what you're going to do with the mayor.
2. Deception works here. You don't have enough information to push the mayor, and he'll learn too much if you yap without knowing the consequences of sharing the intel.
3. Appeal to his greed. You can apply anger and intimidate him if he doesn't accept your offers, but show that you can be "reasonable".
4. Amy has a better feel of the politics here, you can't risk causing an incident over the wrong sentence.

>>676316
Hoo boy, we're planning in detail, here.

>1
I say bring it. You've had a crash course in having to control and face the worst of your emotions already, I think you can control yourself, especially with us and Amy there. Just remember: you don't need to do anything extra to make him pay. We're going there pretty much explicitly to rip him off, and then make things worse for him later. We're setting his comeuppance in motion.

>2
Deception. It's much easier if we control what he knows. Honestly, we don't even need to exaggerate much- smart omissions and fear will do that for you.

>3
I... really don't see why you wouldn't appeal to both. Carrot and the stick. You're here to tempt him, and to be intimidating enough that crossing or angering you would be a bad idea. You're playing the fae here. You're the dangerous, unknown creature offering a tempting bargain with veiled threats.

>4
I feel like a big part of the answer here is you should do some planning and talking beforehand- discussing what points you intend to cover. If you each have some idea of what the other considers important, it'll be easier to work together / swap while with the mayor.

>>676319
That works.
On the Axe, would it work to bring it but then lean it against a wall or something rather than carrying it?

I'm lost on the question of what we can offer this guy that isn't a bad idea. Frankly, I see two possibilities regarding his feelings on his part in the disaster. One possibility is that he is justifiably fearful and even repentant over his due karma for causing a mass-murder and the destruction of Ronnalin. The other possibility is that he's only ever shed crocodile tears over that--if any at all--and he's a greedy parasite that cannot safely be tolerated. We need to know more about him to answer the questions given, I say.

>1. Should Sami bring the Siren's Axe?
I trust you, Sami. I believe you are strong enough to control your emotions. Bring the axe.
>2. Should they be DIRECT or DECEPTIVE?
Deceptive sounds good.
>4. Should AMY do more of the talking or should SAMI?
Start out with Amy, but when it comes to confirmation of the condition of Ronnalin, Sami should talk.

Smik 2015/10/24(Sat)08:35 No. 679061 ID: 3009b4
File 144570091722.jpg - (470.05KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_53.jpg )

Now that they've decided on an approach, Amy will arrange a meeting. The walk to the Mayor's office is short, but despite this the two feel the eyes of the town on them the entire time until they enter the building. The inside is tastefully decorated with rich wood grains and a thick, red carpet lines the reception area. Various paintings adorn the walls of figures whose importance has probably past. Sami notes that there doesn't seem to be much in the way of security here.

Amy: Don't expect a warm reception - I'm always bad news here as either I'm warning of a threat or I'm doing some threatening.

Amy whispers to the doorman and soon the mayor's assistant arrives to greet them. Just as any predicted, the mayor's assistant is not happy to see the duo, and the brief glance he gives Sami is one of thinly-veiled disgust.

Mayor's Assistant: Seamstress. Your business with the mayor is....?

Amy smiles icily: Opportunity. I would like to arrange a meeting with the mayor as soon as possible in regards to recovering the golems from Ronnalin.

The assistant winces; apparently Amy's 'opportunities' are normally not well received.

Mayor's Assistant: I'm going to assume that failing to recover these golems would create a security liability?

Amy looks to Sami.

Sami: You should see what the Rook did.

Mayor's Assistant glances at the Siren's Axe and then looks at Sami coldly: I understand that the only time the golems move is when someone steals from them.

Sami pauses for a moment as she realizes the implication and thinks of a response: Oh, you think I stole the Axe? No, it was given to me. By the mayor.

The assistant scoffs.

Sami pauses for a moment: Well, the spiritual remains of former mayor. Of Ronnalin. The one I knew growing up.

The assistant does not look impressed.

Sami brings the Axe forwards so he can take a good look at it. As she does so, her eyes become a more brilliant blue, although she is not consciously aware of it. She watches the assistant's face and times her speech for dramatic effect.

Sami: I am Sami Jones of Ronnalin. THAT Sami. The same child who saw all her friends drown ten years ago, the only survivor of the song of the Pied Piper. THAT Piper. The same Piper that both our mayors did business with.

She steps forward and the assistant tries to take a step back, but in a blink Sami has gripped him firmly by the shoulder and brought him back to her, forcing him to stare into her eyes.

Sami: You know that town is cursed. Everyone involved in the disaster was tainted by it.

The hand that grips the assistant's shoulder is trembling, but it's from restraint instead of weakness. A high-pitched ringing has become audible, and it seems to be coming from the Axe.

Sami's voice becomes very tense: I found out recently that someone... living here... shares that taint.

Amy gently places her hand on Sami's shoulder. The effect is instant: Sami releases the assistant, her demeanor soft and pleasant, and the Axe is quiet.

Sami: But this meeting isn't about that. It's about a beneficial opportunity.

The assistant rubs his shoulder while wincing. Sami's eyes dart between the spot of blood she seems her grip left and back to his face.

Mayor's Assistant: I... I see. I'm sure I can arrange a meeting tonight at our usual location. Good-day ladies.

Amy sighs.

Amy: Usually I make the subtle threats required to enforce compliance but I see you took care of that pretty

neatly.

Sami looks at her feet for a moment, then turns to Amy and pulls her in to embrace her, nuzzling her neck. Amy is flustered at such a bold, public display of affection by another woman. She shrinks at the eyes on them. Sami turns and glares at the observers, daring them to comment. The onlooks turn away and carry on their business in reply. She looks back at Amy's flush face and smiles warmly.

Sami: C'mon, they're not stupid, they know. But what are they gonna do? Fuck them.

Sami takes Amy's hand, and practically swoons as Sami leads her away from town and back to her home.

I think you should have saved the aggressive behavior for the mayor, not his assistant. But if that's you trying at half your normal anger, I think you'll have the real deal stuttering in his mind and easily preyed on by Amy's negotiations.

They're likely going to increase prices around you two after that stunt. No matter. You acted with courage in making choices that should be personal, that's something they will respect. I know I respect you showing affection to your girlfriend in public because you wanted to.

But in all seriousness, you should probably go back to the house. Too much attention at once and something is going to make the news.

Also, your eyes went glowy again.

>>679061
Well, that works. Although you're certainly going to have to be careful, if your emotions came that close to getting the best of you when interacting with a proxy. It'll be worse with the mayor. (If you have to: remind yourself that part of the point of this exercise is exploiting him, anyways. You'll see that he gets his).

>Amy is flustered at such a bold, public display of affection by another woman.
Uhm, breaking taboos is not usually the best way to make friends and convince people to do what you want. I don't disrespect the integrity of standing up for your beliefs and actions... but there surely are more productive ways to get help and resources in town.

>>679100
Eh, the townspeople already saw us as weird and the mayor was never going to like us. Public opinion might be an issue if the mayor tries to raise a mob, but I think Dragons have methods for heading off or dealing with that sort of thing.

>>679466

Kind of sort of, but also kind of sort of not. I mean... yeah, she's powerful, but if the WHOLE DAMN VILLAGE showed up with torches and pitchforks, would she be able to take them all out?

As I understand it, Dragons rely on intimidation and the threat that they could kill anyone -if they wanted to- to keep order in an area, and at the same time, scare away threats from other sources (like the pantheon).

That doesn't mean they could kill everyone. It means they have to toe the line and make sure they are seen as a scary thing that will leave them alone as long as the townspeople do (or don't do) x thing.

Smik 2015/11/14(Sat)19:45 No. 684020 ID: 3009b4
File 144755912155.jpg - (407.19KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_54.jpg )

Sami takes Amy back to her home at a brisk pace, with her hand in hers.

Amy: Sami, what's the hurry?

In response, Sami lets go of Amy's hand, and runs it down to her bottom, giving it a squeeze.

Amy: SAMI!!

She looks around to see if anyone noticed, but if they did they don't let on. She looks at Sami flustered and Sami just smiles.

Amy: Someone will see!

Sami: I don't care. I really don't give a shit. I want you, and the only *restraint* I feel like applying is waiting until we get home.

Amy blushes profusely and looks at her feet, but she can't wipe the grin off her face. It's very clear she likes it.

Amy: I... I'm not used to it. I'm so used everyone trying to hide things.

Sami: But you like it.

Amy: I've always wanted to be this free.

As soon as they're outside the city, Sami gets bolder in her affections, kissing Amy's neck, whispering what she's going to do to her in her ear, and running her fingers down her back. By the time they get to the house, Amy's flushed and when Sami stops before they enter to give her a long, passionate kiss, she gets so hot and bothered that she touches Sami in a very intimate way.

They briefly and rather ineffectively glance around to see if her parents are within earshot before Sami pulls her into Amy's bedroom and ravishes her with fervor. They enjoy bouts of frenzied passion interspaced with tender lulls, and before long Amy is too tired for any more and passes out into a blissful sleep.

Sami lusts for one more time, but as she flicks Amy's nipple with her tail and gets no response she sighs and takes care of herself. It's not until she's finished with her fantasy that the desire clouding her mind clears, and she's sitting on the side of a rather damp bed with Amy still happily in her dreams just beside her.

It's not until she is still in the shadows that Sami realizes the ringing in her ears is gone and that the Siren's Axe is no longer in the room.

The oddest thing is she's still not tired.

>the ringing in her ears is gone and that the Siren's Axe is no longer in the room.
Hmm. It amplified emotions before, could it have egged you on this time? Might explain why you were still raring to go when she was tired out. Although, that still doesn't explain where it went.

From that wording though- it was in the room when you started? It didn't get left behind (or taken) while you were in town?

Should probably figure out where it went. Not the kind of thing that should be left unaccounted for.

>The oddest thing is she's still not tired.
Yeah that's weird. Hmm. There's a connection between water fae and sex, isn't there? Is it possible this actually served to recharge you more than tire you out?

Smik 2015/11/14(Sat)20:38 No. 684030 ID: 3009b4
File 144756228447.jpg - (485.57KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_54b.jpg )

>From that wording though- it was in the room when you started?

Sami's recollection of things before all the sex are a bit foggy, but she's pretty sure it was in the room when they started.

>Yeah that's weird. Hmm. There's a connection between water fae and sex, isn't there? Is it possible this actually served to recharge you more than tire you out?

Sami's never indulged her fae side for ten years, so she doesn't know.

She hears shuffling outside the door, and with whispers from George, Amy's father. Then Skyia speaks loudly from outside.

Skyia: Sami, are you awake and decent?

She hears George hiss at her how improper asking her that question is.

Sami: Ummm...

Skyia: I'm going to assume the former. Sweetie don't be ashamed...

George: Skyia!!

Skyia: Don't let your pot boil over Georgie, I think it's better we be up front with this. Besides, if I didn't smell it coming you might have heard it. More clearly. Besides...

George: Skyia, she doesn't need to know or think about it.

Skyia: ... besides, you had me retrieve the Siren's Axe. While...

Sami: Oh no.

Skyia: Sweetie, you're too young to worry about what your lover's faerie mother might have seen. Just know that you should freshen up and then you and George need to talk.

Sami: OH NO...

Skyia: Relax, it's not like that. It's related to that, but it's not like that. Just freshen up. Amy and I tend to leave our mark on people and while it's not an unpleasant odour it's very distracting. Well, to me at least -- I doubt Georgie will...

... oh he's giving me a look of horror, I guess he can. Just come into the kitchen when you're ready, dear.


Sami is mortified.

>snake mama snuck in and took it
Oh good, that was one of the good likely explanations.

>Sami is mortified.
Hey, making you mortified is a parent's prerogative.

Might as well get decent and see what they've got for you.

Wait, did we screw anything up? Should we have stopped Skyia from holding the axe?

Well, breakfast sounds good. I recommend the breakfast sandwich - scrambled eggs, eggs over easy, fried meat strips and some ground meat all stuck between two pieces of bread. Good times.

Smik 2015/11/14(Sat)21:40 No. 684056 ID: 3009b4
File 144756601555.jpg - (340.36KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_55.jpg )

Thankfully there's a wash basin in the room. Sami wipes herself down to the point where she figures she should at least be presentable enough to go down to the river and have a proper wash. She avoids all eye contact and she hears Skyia laugh merrily as she heads out.

The water does a remarkable job of clearing her head. It feels... more natural than any bath that she's been in.

She returns and meets George in the kitchen. He's got the Siren's Axe.

George: Have a good wash, Sami?

Sami just blushes in reply.

George: This isn't easy for me either, Sami. I... I'm still not quite comfortable with my daughter's choice in, umm... suitors.

Sami: If it's any consolation, I had no idea about it myself until I met her. Everything sort of clicked and now everything is different.

George looks her up and down, measuring her up. She sees Skyia pass by as he does so, and the faerie woman roll her eyes.

Skyia: If there was something wrong with her I would have made it clear by now. Imagine if you had someone judging YOU when you married me?

George rolls his eyes in return: Woman, we DID. We had the entire town, and my family all judging us. Some of my people still consider me fallen! Let me be a little protective of my only daughter!!

Skyia laughs.

Skyia: Oh yes, I forgot you're the scary, scary bride's father. Nevermind the half-serpent dragon-queen faerie who basically owns this town. YOU are the SCARY ONE. YES. Sami, you be CAREFUL.

Skyia continues on to tend to her chores with laughing all the way. George sighs, knowing full well that any moment of authority or intimidation he might have had is gone.

Sami: Does it make you feel any better to know that I understand and that your approval is important to me? Oh gods. I... I have to tell my parents. OH GODS.

George looks over at Sami, whose eyes are wide with the realization. He chuckles warmly.

George: All right, all right, ok, ok, this is not really the reason why I wanted to talk to you. It's about the Siren's Axe. It's binding to you, and you need to know how to handle it before it starts to dominate you.

He has Sami's full terrified attention.

Sami: Guys... remember when we first met and you pissed me off? It... it wasn't you. I've been scared of turning into a monster since I was little. When I killed the piper, I ate him. I BECAME a monster. I... I just got used to this fae side of me and the last thing I want to hear is that something else is gonna make me lose control.

George: When you're a Minstrel Knight, you learn that there's an instrument that just feels right. It touches your soul, you play through it and it plays through you. But when you discover it, it can influence you like an obsession and bring out one's intensity. You've found your instrument, and maybe it's your fae blood but your instrument is something different. Mine was the violin if you're curious. I still serenade Skyia with it but she prefers the CONCERTINA -- it calms Amy down too. Now, you don't know how to play this instrument so it's playing you. If you're going to get any sort of control over it I'm going to have to show you a few things.

The catch is, teaching takes time. You're going to have to stay here for awhile... become part of our family. Try to lower your profile a little too. Speaking of family, you might want to send a message to your parents at some point -- you said they're worried sick about you.


Sami looks nervous.

Sami: Town still calls to me. I have to fix it. I've seen the dead, and they need resolution. I...

George interrupts her.

George: And you've got my daughter involved now. Wait -- how have the dead spoken to you?

Sami: They're... sort of trapped there -- the mayor and the piper. The mayor said he couldn't think very clearly until I came to the place where he died. Seems to be the same for the Piper. I think it's the same for me, I'm just not dead yet.

George is silent for a few moments.

George: Is there anything else you haven't told me? Or Amy for that... oh, actually don't bother trying to talk with Amy. She's like her mother, VERY headstrong and once she'd made up her mind nothing we say will change it. But... you need to tell ME everything that's happened to you. You're going to be family, right?

Sami: I guess... I thought we weren't getting married?

George gives her a stern look.

George: Skyia's taught me family's more than a ceremony. If you're leading my daughter into danger you had better damn well be family.

Sami looks down.

Sami: I... I don't want her to endanger herself. I've had to question if what I'm doing is really worth it when I've got something to lose now.

George: And?

Sami looks at her feet: I don't have a choice. I can't abandon them. It's not RIGHT to condemn the dead like that. I've lived my life with crushing guilt, and even if they ARE guilty I can't just leave them for who knows how long -- maybe even eternity -- tied with the same burden.

George gently raises Sami's gaze to meet his.

George: But you're innocent. We know everything remember?

Sami: I don't believe I'm innocent though. I have to fix this. It's my fault. Even if it's not, I have to do this.

George sighs.

George: I understand Sami, but the only way I can help you is if you tell me everything. You're the grown-up lone survivor, you've got your home town's artifact which is binding itself to you, you've got a Token of Death, you've talked to ghosts, you're mixed up with a curse and you've mixed in with my daughter... is there anything else?

Sami: You're the only thing left guys. I... guess compared to everything else you're kinda sand to stone. But... look, I've been raised to keep secrets and this feels wrong. What should I do? Are you guys OK with it?

>You're the only thing left guys. I... guess compared to everything else you're kinda sand to stone.
I thought you already told them about us? At least, you told Amy you had wild spirits along (after we pissed her off) and you talked with Skyia about us. Did he miss that?

>But... look, I've been raised to keep secrets and this feels wrong.
Uh, wrong to tell him, or wrong not to?

>What should I do? Are you guys OK with it?
I don't have a problem with him knowing we're here. Man has a right to know what his daughter's getting into.

If it's any comfort, we like Amy. So she'll have spooky spirit powers looking out for her, trying to nudge dangerous circumstances in her favor.

>is there anything else?
Uh, if we're gonna do full disclosure, we do sometimes talk to cats. So you've got one degree removed involvement there. I know Skyia's not found of them, but they are handy for information resources.

>I thought you already told them about us? At least, you told Amy you had wild spirits along (after we pissed her off) and you talked with Skyia about us. Did he miss that?

Sami: I guess he wants the gory details. And when I said it felt wrong... it's just... not customary for communities to just spill their guts. It's like a faux pas.

>I don't have a problem with him knowing we're here. Man has a right to know what his daughter's getting into.

Sami: You're right.

Sami explains -- at length -- what she knows about you. The fact that she thought you were trying to change her back at her first night, and then *something* happened... and she woke up at dawn. Sami herself pauses, like she's not sure how much really happened.

This is where George grills her -- apparently he is very interested in HOW your connection with Sami first came to be. He asks her many questions, all seemed to be about finding out when she began to trust you. He even re-asks questions, almost to try to catch her tripping up. What it does show is gaps in Sami's own understanding of you.

As she and George talk, Skyia sits in to just listen. Eventually Amy toddles out of bed, washes up, and sits in as well.

His main point of concern is the fact that your connection with Sami did not initiate until she had arrived back in her home town. If it was truly just a matter of the Death Token, why not trigger earlier? Why now?

Skyia voices her opinion.

Skyia: This is likely a critical point in your life Sami. Wild spirits -- no offence intended -- are horribly unreliable. I'm afraid whoever has set this up has probably done so more out of amusement than altruism.

George: You're meeting with the mayor tonight, right? I advise very strongly that you do not take the Siren's Axe with you. The mayor isn't trustworthy but he won't try anything stupid unless backed into a corner.

We're not the most reliable because most of us aren't specialists, and we're not the most serious because we have no objective stake in this. But sometimes, a large but specific source of help has a way of sorting itself.

Alright, time to plan the negotiations. George, can you find some tools to analyze the Siren's Axe? Skyia, check the Fae networks and see if you can research any information about the Axe that we might not know about. Amy, write down everything you know about the mayor's personality, and a list of recent events that spans up to six months, maybe more. Sami, find a replacement weapon and practice your ability to threaten opponents, choose a weapon that has a combination of a high stopping power and a high grapple.

Oh well now, how do we explain ourselves and all of what we see, say and do?
"You remember those 'wild spirits' I mentioned earlier? One of them is helping me with the words for this, these exact words. They say they are spirits from many different worlds, of many things. This one calls himself a 'human' and knows mathematics, logic, musical theory, and languages of control that tell things like golems what to do. They are connected to the coin. I was suspicious of them at first, but even their failures seem to be made in ignorance and good faith. Most of our interaction is discussing or arguing what to do as they try to give advice. Much of what they do speaking with cats, fairies and magic objects scares me, but they have adopted my welfare and goals as their own and it's unlikely I would have made it out of Ronnalin alive without their help."

>His main point of concern is the fact that your connection with Sami did not initiate until she had arrived back in her home town. If it was truly just a matter of the Death Token, why not trigger earlier? Why now?
>This is likely a critical point in your life Sami.
They've answered their own question. By design or fate, we pretty much only appear in certain critical moments of people's lives. I'm sure you could have benefited from guidance from a younger age, or over the long term, but that's unfortunately not how it works. We don't get to hang around anywhere for the long haul. We don't get to choose when we appear.

>I'm afraid whoever has set this up has probably done so more out of amusement than altruism.
Well, getting meta, questing is technically a lot closer to a form of entertainment than a form of charity. Although you could make an interesting argument there, considering how many of us are motivated to genuinely help the fictional characters we interact with. And there is the fact that an author is usually putting in a good deal of effort to provide something for free to a group of anonymous strangers.

>Wild spirits -- no offence intended -- are horribly unreliable.
None taken, although how true that is depends on the context. There are hard limits on what we can do, and our long term involvement in any scenario is by definition, impermanent, but when we are on a task, we see things through.

We've done pretty impossible things to keep people safe, before. We don't intend to fall short here.

>Now, you don't know how to play this instrument so it's playing you.
>I advise very strongly that you do not take the Siren's Axe with you.
I'm tempted to side with his advise. He has some understanding as to how the artifact works and affects you. If he's right that it's going to disproportionately influence you until you've started learning how to master it, it's probably more of a liability in a tense social situation.

> I'm afraid whoever has set this up has probably done so more out of amusement than altruism.
It's... Both. They're amusing themselves by being both altruistic and humorous, and leaving both ourselves (The spirits) and Sami confused as to what's good and what's not.

>>684255

Some of the cats who set up our connection are trying to help, they're ALL looking to get their kicks, though.

Smik 2015/11/30(Mon)22:16 No. 686430 ID: 3009b4
File 144895060723.jpg - (376.25KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_56.jpg )

The meeting with the mayor is tonight, so Sami sups with Amy's family. As instructed, Sami will leave the Siren's Axe in case she loses control of her better judgement again.

Amy's usual place is in a clearing within the woods a short distance from town -- it provides confidentiality for her and the mayor.

The night air is slightly sweet, fragrant with the smell of pine and damp earth. Sami and Amy arrive first, and watch patiently for the mayor. He is flanked by a couple of masked men, and all three wear wide-brimmed hats and dark clothing.

Amy whispers: It's not unusual for him to bring protection. I wouldn't be surprised if Mother is lurking by somewhere too. The guards are masked so we can't ... influence them in advance.

The mayor has the look of someone aged by stress. His hair is grey, and behind his spectacles his eyes have visible bags even in the dim light. His voice is the clue that he's younger than he appears -- Sami guesses he's about 50.

Mayor Harris : Well, what is it now, Amy? I'm here as rudely requested by your new... acquaintance.

As suggested, they will be deceptive over honest and apply more to greed than fear when there's a choice.

Sami: Didn't your assistant inform you of who I was?

Mayor Harris looks uncomfortable and doesn't meet Sami's gaze.

Mayor Harris: I know who you're claiming to be...

Amy looks irritated: Do we really need to do this little dance? I can vouch for her identity, and that should be sufficient.

Mayor Harris sighs: Very well then. If we're going to skip the dance I'd appreciate we could also skip the usual threats? You did mention an opportunity.

Sami: How about the ability to detect spirits, and maybe even retrieve some golems?

Mayor Harris is unable to restrain a flicker of keen interest.

Mayor Harris: So you're serious about running the experiments proposed by Dr. Korze? I won't pretend that being able to actually know when we're being spied on is uninteresting. It's better than relying on the nonsense from the North-East. I suppose you need funds?

Sami: Well, it's more like Dr. Korze's people will need them. They need someone to go in and run some experiments and considering I'm trying to clear the curse from my home town knowing where the curse is would help me too.

Mayor Harris's expression changes somewhat: If you don't mind Sami - why bother? You survived, the town is abandoned. Why not just move on?

Sami sighs: I've been trying to do that for ten years. It won't let me.

Sami feels a tickle at the back of her neck. She glances over at Amy, but she seems to be focused on watching the mayor and his men.

Do you have anything you'd like Sami to ask?

You're probably being watched. Don't take the mayor hostage yet, someone in the branches might not work on his behalf.

Your main issue is that there's a quick and easy way to beat this curse, but you need EXPENSIVE ingredients that are worth enough to build an over-city over Ronnalin. (Technically the ingredients are gold, gold, and more gold, but keep that from him.) Another option is to perform a specific ritual sacrifice on everyone who was responsible for the mess, which will likely go horribly and you aren't considering that as an option. Also, you can't ritually sacrifice a goddess, so there.

So the last option is to tear away at the curse using hit-and-run tactics to steal the power of the wraiths (hackers) until you can fix this with an exorcist or something.

Let the mayor think he can outsmart you. Your goal is to make him think that he's smart, smart enough to figure out your game and play to the best of his ability. Then screw him over with new rules, if necessary.

>You're probably being watched.
By who? We've already met all the major local players, I think. Unless the Redeemer showed up.

>than relying on the nonsense from the North-East
Do we know about that already?

>Do you have anything you'd like Sami to ask?
Uh. I can think of plenty of confrontational "why did you do what you did" questions, but antagonizing him in that manner doesn't serve our current interests.

Look, you benefit if anything is done about the curse lurking on your borders, you benefit if the research bears fruit or if we recover any golems, you benefit not annoying the local fae-blooded, and for assurances, you've got a contractor who's tied to the place.

It's win-win, and you're not taking any of the risks.

>>686513
To be fair, in financing our expedition, he IS taking something of a financial risk. The idea is to convince him we're worth the money.

Smik 2015/12/06(Sun)17:27 No. 687384 ID: 3009b4
File 144945162329.jpg - (379.37KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_57.jpg )

>Don't take the mayor hostage yet, someone in the branches might not work on his behalf.

Sami: That thought never even occurred to me, amusing an idea as it is. I have no plans on taking anyone hostage.

>>than relying on the nonsense from the North-East
>Do we know about that already?

Sami: Maybe? He's referring to Gaelend and Shinato -- the cloppers & trites. They have this thing about honoring the spirits. We've tried borrowing techniques from time to time but with not much success.

Sami: Look, this is very simple. You just give Dr. Korze anything he needs, we do research for him and hopefully we figure out how to lift the curse in Ronnalin. At the very least we expect to fully test spirit-detecting equipment which you're clearly interested in... but we have the potential to lift the curse which removes a local hazard.

Mayor Harris thinks about it before sighing.

Mayor Harris: I'll be frank, Samantha. I don't think you're going to lift the curse, and while I am interested in spirit detection research and I do have some confidence in Dr. Korze's work you're more likely going to get yourself killed, and then I'll have to answer to Skyia for her daughter's death.

Amy: Going with Sami was my idea. You'll have more to answer to if you get in my way.

Mayor Harris: I'm getting too old and tired for this kind of nonsense. Fine, I'll tell Dr. Korze he has the financial support of our town -- but for your own sake, don't take any more foolish risks than you absolutely have to. The last thing anyone wants is an enraged, grieving mother on the rampage.

Sami: Good. Shake and close.

>>687384
WAIT LET ME SCAN HIS HAND FIRST

[[Scan: Mayor]]
[[Scan: Mayor's hand]]

Okay, we're good.

Yay, you have a budget! Sami and Amy, hug Skyia and then discuss the distribution of funds.

I see no reason to not take his hand, nor any traps or tricks.

But he did hit the nail on the head- the biggest danger to him is actually if you allow anything to happen to Amy. Luckily for him we're already invested in preventing that, though not for his sake.

>>687386
No reason to be suspicious about this, he would have to deal with an enraged mother, like he said, if he tried anything.

[ANIMATED] Smik 2016/01/04(Mon)19:29 No. 691724 ID: 3009b4
File 145196458083.gif - (495.55KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_58.gif )

As her hand clasps the mayor's, Sami feels a sick sensation near the back of her head - pressure building in a pinpoint sized ball. Something pops, and it's like a thousand tiny legs crawling up her spine and on the inside of her skull.

It's over quickly; her face merely flinches and it's done. But she feels like something terrible just happened.

Ummmmmmm.

Sami I'm pretty sure a curse just jumped from you to the mayor. That's probably bad.

I'm really not sure how it was able to hitch a ride without us, you, or anyone you encountered sensing it. Or how it was able to behave itself.

>>691724
Oh crap. TROJAN!

Sami, Trojan Viruses are a type of "curse" that are weak hitters but can camouflage themselves near-perfectly until they find the perfect opportunity to jump to a less defended host! Then they deal damage over time to the host's defenses / summon a horde of bigger, badder curses!

Damnit, one of the advisors might have been a wraith all along! It wouldn't be too hard to mimic some random annoying nerd!

Knock him unconscious, NOW! I know this will break apart your relations with the village, but if you let him back to his seat of power, the curse will likely break his mind and force-feed him wraiths until he's nothing more than a city-razing Overlord! You need to cure him while you have the chance!

That or he is now marked for death. Cause of the whole death-touched thing. It might have taken the opportunity to latch on the Mayor if he is overdue for his fate.

This is going to make a mess of things.

Ohwait, duh. [Scan mayor]

...

[Scan whatever that thing was if that doesn't work]

So here's something I don't think we did before... Should we try to scan Sami?

Chapter Two Complete Smik 2016/01/12(Tue)23:53 No. 693427 ID: 3009b4
File 145267163926.jpg - (95.07KB , 640x720 , Sami_ChapterTwo_58.jpg )

* A security violation has been detected and this system has been suspended.

* CURSESWEEP running.
* 1 demon has been detected and quarantined.
* CURSESWEEP has finished.

* Connection to TEN has been reset.

* A system update is available!
* New version 10.0 BETA
* Features:
* New HANDLER - a more user friendly version of ADMIN, providing helpdesk and shopkeep support.
* Application DAEMON system - smarter programs.
* New ethereal HUD.
* New custom Avatar available.

* Update is currently optional at this time.

* Developer Notes:
"We're proud to offer participation in the 10.0 HMES BETA. We've listened to your feedback and have brought you a better way to connect to your Questor. The new HANDLER option means a single, fairly dedicated and usually-available CAT will be available and visible to assist with both questions about the system and act as a direct line to the store. No longer can hostile network users completely disrupt access as the CAT will have her/his own local inventory.

Additionally we're proud to present the new DAEMON application system. We've repackaged programs like PHYSICAL SCAN and DETECT NETWORK into adaptable DAEMONS who can act on your behalf and even act automatically based on your instructions.

The new Ethereal HUD will allow you to switch to 'Spirit Vision', causing the mundane to dim and focus only on the metaphysical.

Finally we're proud to present a new custom AVATAR system, visible only to the Questor and connected party. Not only does the AVATAR provide a more personable (and less traumatic for the questor) approach to questing, its position within the HUD allows for dynamic camera adjustment.

Participating in the new system is entirely optional however; we understand how irritating system updates can be and want to ensure you're under no pressure to update your system at this time. We also request your patience as this system is still in BETA"

** AUTHOR NOTE **
The "Update" is basically a Quest interface I had originally planned for Nem's Modern Quest, but I figured it might also address some of the issues people have had with Sami's Quest -- namely scrapping multiple Admins who only show up from time to time inconsistently and just having one guide that won't ever flip out on you. The concept of turning the programs (spells) into daemons I thought fit better within the ideas of technomagic, plus then you can give them some guides and there's less manual scanning (which gets tedious) and hopefully less disruptive for the narrative. But since it will be a somewhat jarring change I thought I'd wait until the break between 2nd and 3rd Chapter to ask if anyone was up for it.

>>693428
I kind of liked having the separate admins, but I'm also curious about the new system you have planned, so unless there's a way to allow them into the new system, I'd like to stay as Undecided.

ARGH! And RIGHT before Sami needed to hear that she accidentally turned the mayor into an Overlord Butcher! If this takes too long and Welser goes to hell while we're out, she might be furious with us.

However, I think this update might work to our advantage. Keep a copy of the HMES 2.0 .zip installation file and all programs, we might need them later.

>>693427
Uh. I'm not so sure changing the entire manner we function in the middle of things will be the best thing for trust. Sami's gotten used to us- making us suddenly different raises uncomfortable questions about how reliable and transitory we are. And how much influence / control outside forces have over us.

Especially if said change occurs right after we were yelling about curses and bad things.

I'd say no, for now.

I trust you, unless it's too late for my vote to count, which I totally understand. I'll throw mine in there as a yes for the beta.