Kaktus 2019/06/22(Sat)17:44 No. 936824 ID: 1301e8
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-so I said to him “Because you just told me about them.”. You should have seen the look on his face!
Hah!

You made your way home after your romp with Lily without anything of note happening, unless you find the fact that she couldn’t sit down after Thule was done with her worth mentioning. Well home, you immediately cleaned yourself up before diving into the massive pile of moving boxes filled with your stuff.

So we arrested him, checked his pockets and would you known it? There were enough stuff in there for at least two dozen people.
How can you just blurt something like that out to a cop anyway?

Several boxes, a dinner and about two hours later you get a call from Haley, saying that she just got off her shift. She asks you to meet up with her at a smaller bar not far from where you live for a drink and pleasant conversation. As soon as you get there the two of you head inside and orders a drink each, before sharing old work stories to break the ice.

To be fair, he was high as a kite when we stopped him.
Still, to be caught like that when you only wanted to give him back his wallet. Verily, he probably wasn’t the straightest river out there, was he?
Indeed.

Kaktus 2019/06/22(Sat)17:44 No. 936825 ID: 1301e8
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An awkward silence washes over you as Haley fidget with her drink. It’s clear that something is weighting down her shoulders.

So… what did you want to talk to me about? It’s quite obvious that you want to talk about something a bit heavier than just old stories. And why just to me?
Is it that transparent?

She sighs deeply before emptying her glass and ordering another drink.
Because you know about Xaby.
She-
Don’t. Don’t say anything about her. That’s the problem. I do not know what to do here.
…what do you mean?
I have sworn to uphold the law and to protect those that cannot do it themselves.
But upholding the law would hurt someone you’d sworn to protect?
Affirmative. It’s like there are two parts of me, fighting over what to do next. Do I do nothing and simply let it go? Or do I tell my superiors what I know?
If you tell them Xaby might-
It’s not that simple. It’s not just Xaby. If I tell them she might get in danger, yes, but if I don’t tell them, what if the next SAI they smuggle away is actually dangerous? Most of these laws are there for a reason, after all. I know much well from experience that many SAI that they “save” like that aren’t SAI’s that are worth saving. They are fragmented and dangerous to all those around them.
So… do you save one person you care for… or maybe several people that you don’t know?
*Sigh* I have sworn to protect people. What do I do when all options to do so, don’t?

How does a robot even sigh anyway?

>>936825
>How does a robot even sigh anyway?
How do you psychically sigh? (and on the subject, how can you psychically talk to a robot?)

They could always say they got a tip about a SAI smuggling ring from an informant.
1 they don’t have to involve Xaby and 2 informants are kept confidential even from other officers in case of the info reaching ears of potential threats to them.

>>936825
Tell them after she's gone.

>How does a robot even sigh anyway?
their cooling fans run on overdrive for a second before turning back down to their normal silent speed.

But yeah, welcome to life where it really has all the answers. Their will be times when you get it easy and everything is black and white, right and wrong, and we can be sure that what we pick is the right answer. However their will also be times where we are handed something that's just different shades of grey. Where their is no right or wrong, no easy answer. In those cases, the ones where you honestly can't decide what is the right choice, well all you can do is ask yourself, "Which choice will let me sleep easier at night?"

Would it be easier for you to follow the law to the letter even if it might hurt those that you've sworn to protect, or do you try to spare the innocent even though doing so might lead to ways for other less innocent individuals to take advantage of others? Their is no right answer, just one that you feel is best and while you can ask others for their thoughts one what is right and what isn't in the end it's going to have to be you that decides what YOU want to do. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful with this but sometimes you just come across things like this and all you can do is pick one and hope for the best.

>>936838
This.

>>936838
Pretty much this.

There are going to be times where you just have to use your best judgment and do what you think is right.

Kaktus 2019/06/23(Sun)17:05 No. 937017 ID: 1301e8
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>How do you psychically sigh?
…you don’t? Serpent does at times stop to audibly collect their thoughts, which might be considered a sigh, you guess?
>Their cooling fans run on overdrive for a second before turning back down to their normal silent speed.
That does actually sound plausible. Verily, you haven’t actually given it much though how robots actually communicate. They usually don’t have mouths; ergo they probably use some kind of voice module of some kind.
>and on the subject, how can you psychically talk to a robot?
You telepathically throw your thoughts at it, something inside it catch them and translate them into something it can understand. In layman’s terms, of course.


>Welcome to life.
I know it’s life. What I’m asking is how to handle life.
>There will be times when you get it easy and everything is black and white, right and wrong, and we can be sure that what we pick is the right answer. However there will also be times where we are handed something that's just different shades of grey.
But which grey is right? Is it gray or is it grey?
Verily, there simply isn’t a right or wrong, no easy answer. Instead, ask yourself what you want to do?
I don’t know.
Which choice will let me sleep easier at night?
I just don’t know.

>Tell them after she's gone.
Then I’ll get some very hard question about why I didn’t inform them earlier.
>They could always say they got a tip about a SAI smuggling ring from an informant.
Getting information from an unknown source? That might work, indeed. But it doesn’t solve the main problem, does it?
Which is?
By the time Xaby is safe the smugglers will already have moved their organization somewhere else. After all, I’m pretty sure we were breathing down there neck so they would be quite unintelligent if they didn’t change their location. Thus the information I would provide would be worthless.
Huh… then I guess that won’t really work.
>Sorry I couldn't be more helpful with this but sometimes you just come across things like this and all you can do is pick one and hope for the best.
No, I still appreciate this. I just needed to vent for a bit. Thank you, Rishi.
You bought me a drink, ergo it’s the least I can do.

But let’s proceed to more jovial topics. Do you have a new case, for example?
I do in fact. I’ve been hired to find the artist of a certain series of paintings that supposedly live here.
A painter? Really? I didn’t expect a case like that to be honest.
Verily, neither did I. Have you ever heard of someone going by the name “Great, Green Twin Wyrms.”? Here, let me show you one of their paintings.
I can’t say I have any matches in my memory banks for that name… nor for that painting. Or even painting style. Is it painted with glow in the dark colors? And what is this name you have written down? Drizu?
It’s painted with a special pigment made out of a certain set of crystals that grow on my home planet. It’s toxic to non-serpents, so it doesn’t see much use outside our home system. As for the name, it’s what it says on the side of most of the paintings.
Drizu does match the naming convention of your kind, does it not? Then it would be easy to search and find a Serpent named Drizu in the stations data base.
I have and I’ve gotten several matches. Ergo, I’ll need to look into it deeper tomorrow. But enough about my case, how about you? How is work holding up for you?

*Sigh* I’m on patrol tomorrow again near the Sol Corp. HQ. Those protest just seem to get worse and worse if you ask me.
The show that “SAI” put on probably fanned the flames… um… pun not intended.
It’s not only that either. You didn’t hear this from me, but there’s rumors going around that one of those SAI that Sol Corp. got trapped in there have escaped.
That’s… good?
Not if the way people say they treat them is true. If it’s been forced into a body without any ability to move and then tortured to do hard work since it woke up it’s probably nothing more than a feral beast by this point. As I said, SAI can be dangerous if they come from the wrong place. Trust me, I know from experience.
Still… it’s slavery. I can’t see why they would allow something like that.
That’s the problem with the Unity. We need to follow the laws other star systems put up or the whole thing just collapses.
Hmfp… you’d think there would be an easier way…
Hear, hear.

It’s getting late and you’ll have a lot of work to do tomorrow. Hopefully you can find this painter, or at least Drizu, for another easy paycheck. Anything else you want to bring up to Haley before you head back home? She does seem rather gloomy at the moment… and under a lot of stress…

well you could just talk about silly shit until both of you finish your drinks to try and end the night on a lighter mood. Think she'd mind if you asked her about the SAI church and it's different sub-groups? Like what's her take on the ones that want to be plants, more robotic, or more "life like". I mean, assuming you don't think it would bother her to talk about them it could be amusing to see what she thinks about them. Hell you could tell her about some odd groups you came across back home to keep things fair.

>>937017
If the smugglers move you still know who they're affiliated with, and can gather evidence from their previous location or the paper trail related to it, so the "tip" wouldn't be worthless. You can track them down, it's not like they're GONE.

Also ask her if she wants to blow off some steam. You're free tonight if she wants to come home with you.

Look Haley, laws don't always get enforced all the time. Sometimes that's because of political considerations, which is bad, but sometimes it's because laws are bad and end up hurting people they're supposed to protect. These are the kinds of things you should be questioning, because otherwise you're justifying your actions using the superior orders defense.

How do robots even de-stress?

Basically, her real choice is between:
A, very certainly doom an innocent SAI or
B, possibly allow a SAI-smuggling operation to get away and possibly go on to smuggle away unstable SAIs which will possibly harm innocents.
Personally I'd pick option B.

>>937017
Ask if she wants to come over to your place to fuck? That's a good way to relieve stress!

"It is better that ten guilty persons escape than that one innocent suffer."

Remember when we were in the SAI church and she admitted that she has never actually "been one with an organic", lets bring that up now.

>>937017
"When a person is born, you don't know what they're going to eventually do. You can make a guess from their lineage and who raises them, but any one of them could be a scientist who saves millions or a psycho who kills them.
Some of 'em are gonna turn out bad - real bad - but if you had to choose between protecting a nursery or wiping it out then any way you look at it you're gonna protect as hard as you can. It's your job, and it's the right thing to do. No question.

You can't pass judgement on people for what they could do, and you can't punish them as if they're all guilty of hypothetical crimes. That's part of the basis of our whole legal structure - presumption of innocence.
So what you're looking at here, what you're feeling, is that you have a law that goes against everything the whole system is built on, but the people above you seem keen on choosing that law over the whole system.
If one part of a system conflicts with the rest, then that's a wrong part and needs to be replaced.

If that doesn't help you sleep at night?
Well, I've never fucked a robot into a coma before, but..."

>>937017
That other SAI might lash out and hurt someone... or it might just run off to enjoy its newfound freedom... or someone might find it before it hurts anyone and help it find a new lease on life. We can't know what people are going to do in the future, but they deserve a chance to have a future.

It's our job to help and protect people. There's always a chance that someone we help could end up hurting someone, but that doesn't mean we're to blame for it or that we shouldn't have tried to help them. Sometimes good decisions don't have good results; that's just the nature of probability. All we need to do is work with what we know to protect the people we can protect, and if it turns out they're causing harm to someone else, we can stop them too. Or someone else could.

We might have a personal anecdote that could help in this situation. Rishi could have worked on a case back on her homeworld where she helped someone who turned out to be a dangerous criminal, such as one where a woman wanted help finding a missing child, and it turned out the child ran away because she was abusing him, so we arrested her too.

Kaktus 2019/06/26(Wed)09:10 No. 937286 ID: 1301e8
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>It is better that ten guilty people escape than that one innocent suffer.
And then the ten guilty ones make a hundred innocent suffer? No, we can’t just let people harm others just because we might harm someone else.
>You can't pass judgment on people for what they could do, and you can't punish them as if they're all guilty of hypothetical crimes.
But they are guilty of smuggling SAI’s, are they not?
>Look Haley, laws don't always get enforced all the time. Sometimes that's because of political considerations, which is bad, but sometimes it's because laws are bad and end up hurting people they're supposed to protect.
Then you have to question why that law is written as it is? Can’t it be written in a better way so it still encompass its original purpose as well as not catching those it isn’t meant for?
>These are the kinds of things you should be questioning, because otherwise you're justifying your actions using the superior orders defense.
*Sigh* As much as I want to question everything, I simply can’t. I simply don’t know enough of the world… or why things are like they are…
>If the smugglers move you still know who they're affiliated with, and can gather evidence from their previous location or the paper trail related to it, so the "tip" wouldn't be worthless.
Indeed, it might not be worthless. You are correct. But it is still worth far less than it is now, is it not?

Haley downs her drink and orders another one. What is she even drinking? Some kind of… oil?

I came here to relieve some stress, not talk about this all night… can we please change the subject matter?

>How do robots even de-stress?
…depends on the robot. I personally do the same things you organics do. Enjoy a hobby, take a drink and spend time with a friend. Those kind of things.
And other robots?
Some just delete the data that is stressing them out momentarily before recreating it again after they’ve had their fun.
…that sounds a bit like cheating, if you ask me.
Indeed.
>Ask if she wants to come over to your place to fuck? That's a good way to relieve stress!
…well, you’ve never fucked a robot before… maybe if you didn’t come on that… strong?
>I've never fucked a robot into a coma before, but...
Can a robot even get into a coma? Heck, can you even fuck someone into a coma? Verily, you have experience of fucking someone into unconsciousness, but that was a special case so... hmm…

Hey, Haley. I know this really good way to de-stress. It’s an old Serpent way to-
You’re asking me to spend the night? No. Not today.
…you’re sure you know what I meant when I-
“Old Serpent way”? It’s not that hard to figure out.
Well, you did say you’ve never been with an organic before so I just thought… why not have a new experience, eh?
I’m still content simulating less intense scenarios on my own for now. Maybe later when I’m more secure of the capabilities of it. Besides, the warranty doesn’t include organic interaction.
…your warrant? Really?
We robots have many problems you organic don’t have, do we not?

>Think she'd mind if you asked her about the SAI church and it's different sub-groups? Like what's her take on the ones that want to be plants, more robotic, or more "life like".
I am actually a member of the “sisters of the flesh” as they call themselves, though I’m not as extreme as some of those that you met earlier. Most of us aren’t.
Really? Ergo, you want to become more… organic?
I don’t want to become organic. I want to join and be part of the cultures and ways of lives you organic have. That’s the real ideal behind it.
And the plants and robot… err… robots?
The brothers of steel wants us to find our own path, to create our own culture completely distinct from yours. Thus why they focus on the robotic parts of themselves. The sibling of the green on the other hand wants to become part of nature itself, as it’s something we have never been, being constructs made by others.
Such vastly different ideals, yet they are all bound in the same core belief. Interesting.
It’s just three different ways to see our place in the world, I suppose.
>Well you could just talk about silly shit until both of you finish your drinks to try and end the night on a lighter mood.
The rest of the evening is spent discussing less important news, like some sports, games and holo-shows. Apparently Haley is quite the fan of the same Holo-detective stories you love, so the two of you do find something to gush about for the rest of the night. But before it gets too late, you suggest that it’s time for you to hit the water and Haley concurs, having a long shift tomorrow as well. Bidding her farewell, the two of you leave the bar your separate ways.

Kaktus 2019/06/26(Wed)09:10 No. 937287 ID: 1301e8
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You finally make your way home to your humble abode… still filled with cardboard boxes that need to be sorted. Why do you even have this much stuff? Where did you even use to have it? No matter. What isn’t in a box is what’s important! Your sleeping tank! It’s filled to the brim with water just the right temperature a good, long nap.

Slithering towards the bed, you practically throw your clothes off as you enter your bedroom. The paintings, Isabella, Drizu and this “great, green twin wyrms”, all that can wait until tomorrow, because right now, the only thing you want is relax in your nice, new sleeping tank.

Kaktus 2019/06/26(Wed)09:10 No. 937288 ID: 1301e8
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You let yourself sink to the bottom of your sleeping tank, enjoying the feeling of the cool water engulf you and soothe your body. The fine sand at the bottom polishes your scales, removing any dirt and grime as you bury yourself into it and soon enough sleep overcome you. You barely have time to lay down until you’re in a dream.

Kaktus 2019/06/26(Wed)09:10 No. 937289 ID: 1301e8
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A loud beeping fills the tank, dragging you out of your deep sleep without your consent.

*BEEP* A “Leontius Strongheart” are at your front door. He has left the following message:
Good morning, fair maiden!

Ugh… what is he doing here!?

Remember, I promised to honor your with a nice cup of coffee this fine morning?

…oh, right, the coffee… you did promise him a cup of coffee before work yesterday. What time is it anyway?

The first time cycle already started today. If you desire to enjoy a cup with me before working hours now would be the time.

…a part of you want to just get up, punch him in the face before going back to bed.

May I enter your delightful abode? Surely, you’re awake and well at this late hour, correct?

It’s way too early for this shit…

>>937289
Just how much earlier did he wake you? Inform him of your regular wake-up time.

>>937289
>Way too fucking early for this shit.
I think he's just really eager to get to know you. Or maybe he just really wants to admire your hips?

>>937290
This.

Ask your room's listening device what time it is, compare with when you went to bed last night. Show up at the door wearing only a towel around your waist to assert dominance. Inform him it's too damn early and that he has one shot to convince you to not pull his hat down around his shoulders and go back to bed. Endeavor to call him 'early bird' from now on, or at least till it gets boring.

let him in, speak to him through the tank, and then once you wake up enough get out and get dressed and go get your coffee.

Kaktus 2019/06/27(Thu)13:07 No. 937432 ID: 1301e8
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>Just how much earlier did he wake you?
Eh… about two hours to early… as in, way too early.
>I think he's just really eager to get to know you.
Cute, virgin boys like usually are. Verily, you don’t think he’s actually a virgin, but going by how conservative his view was, he’s probably just as easily flustered. Three dates before a kiss? A whole year before some fun? Geez… you can’t help but feel sorry for the kid.
>Or maybe he just really wants to admire your hips?
The curse of these darn add-ons. Your hips are just too curvy for their own good.

>Show up at the door wearing only a towel around your waist to assert dominance.
While it would be fun to see his reaction, let’s not flash people without consent… especially an officer of the law. You do have a rather ill-fitting bathrobe that probably does the trick just as well. Though, seeing as Serpents usually don’t have breasts, can you actually unlawfully flash someone? Hmm…

Just to be on the safe side, you put on your bathrobe and make your way to the front door.

Good morning, Ri- eh!?

As soon as he spots you he turns around flustered and tries to not look at you, but failing miserably.

M-my apologies! I d-didn’t t-think… err… y-you would b-be so… underdressed? I w-would g-gladly honor y-your wishes if y-you wished me to l-leave?
Nng… ‘s fine…

>Inform him of your regular wake-up time.
Do you know what time it is!?
…it’s morning, about the time most people that work the first cycle gets up? Like you?
… … …okay, fair enough. But never the less, Mr. Early bird, I usually sleep at least two hours more... or sometimes three… I c-can set my own times, ergo it doesn’t matter when I get up, alright?
Oh! My apologies, lady Rishi, I didn’t mean to… it’s just, you just said that we would have coffee in the morning and didn’t specify a time so I thought… well… before one of us has to work?
Right, you’ll have to go to work soon, early bird…
Actually, I have paid leave today. They wanted me to take a day off to relax after… well, being lit on fire yesterday when I tried to save a SAI from the flames of hell and all that.
…wait, what?
But never mind that… um… so… I’ll just leave and let you sleep or…?

>He has one shot to convince you to not pull his hat down around his shoulders and go back to bed.
…imagine the aroma of newly grounded Uredo Kitari beans, before a warm liquid with a heavy body enter your mouth. A balanced taste of acidity and sweetness, if a bit earthy, with a slight flavor of citrus and an aftertaste of chocolate. Let it spread around your body as it warms your very soul and wake you up from your sleep into a dream that is in reality.
…that actually sound rather tasty, early bird.
You know what they say, the early bird catches the worm… or in this case the snake *wink*
…ugh, it’s way too early for puns.
So… do you honor me with your presence while we enjoy a delightful cup of Uredo coffee, or do you want me to come back in about two hours?

So… ask him to come back later and go back to sleep or... damn, that coffee sounded really tasty right about now, didn’t it? You don’t think you’ll be able to go back to sleep without lusting after that coffee…

…or you can invite him in and use him as a pillow when you go back to sleep. He does look very soft…

go with him for coffee, get halfway down the hallway before remembering you're still only wearing your robe, debate whether your to tired to go back and get dressed and just continue on in your bath robe or actually have the will power to slither back and through some actual clothes on for the day.

>>937432
>Actually, I have paid leave today. They wanted me to take a day off to relax after…well, being lit on fire yesterday when I tried to save a SAI from the flames of hell and all that.
Cops must have really good medical coverage, he doesn’t look like he was set on fire at all.

>a warm liquid with a heavy body enter your mouth.
You don’t have a mouth. Hmm, I wonder what he would say if you asked him what it’s like to have a mouth?

>coffee or sleep?
Might as well go get that coffee. You can invite him inside to wait for you to get dressed or he can wait out here if he’s not comfortable with coming in.

Tell Leon that in order to make it up to you for waking you up so early, he’s gotta help you with a case. And since he’s got paid leave, you don’t have to worry about interrupting any police related work he’s doing.

Unless he has plans for today. You don’t want to be a jerk and make him use his paid leave to help you if there’s something else he’d rather be doing.

>…or you can invite him in and use him as a pillow when you go back to sleep. He does look very soft…
Rishi, you’re still half asleep. This is Leon, not Lily. Lily was soft, Leon here is all muscles, so he’s not gonna be soft at all.

Kaktus 2019/06/28(Fri)14:14 No. 937543 ID: 1301e8
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>Rishi, you’re still half asleep. This is Leon, not Lily. Lily was soft, Leon here is all muscles, so he’s not gonna be soft at all.
But he’s covered in feathers! Feathers are supposed to be soft, right? They make pillows out of feathers, he is covered in feathers ergo he must be soft. That’s simple logic right there. Verily, it’s logic from a tired mind, but still logic.

>Go with him for coffee.
Coffee…
Err… Rishi?
Ugh… Coffee?
Aren’t you forgetting something?
>Get halfway down the hallway before remembering you're still only wearing your robe.
You actually completely forgot that you’re only wearing a bathrobe right now and nothing else…

So… time to get dressed in your fancy regalia, Lady Rishi?
…I’m actually debating if I even have the will power to slither back home and change or if I’m just too tired to care.
Not to be a killjoy, but your current attire does not fit into the guidelines necessary for public use. So… unless you want to force me to fine you before dragging you back home in handcuffs…
… … …right, I really don’t want a fine… but last part does kind of sound interesting.
I’m not putting handcuff on you just because.
Aw…

>You can invite him inside to wait for you to get dressed or he can wait out here if he’s not comfortable with coming in.
Um… I g-guess I can take a peek inside your lovely abode while you… get d-dressed?

Kaktus 2019/06/28(Fri)14:14 No. 937544 ID: 1301e8
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Leon makes sure to stay far away from you while you dress yourself, just to be completely sure that he doesn’t accidently catch a peek. How drole. In fact, he’s so careful nothing of interest actually happens on your way to the nearby coffee shop either.

Mmm… coffee…
See, this isn’t so bad.
If you like being a coffee zombie, sure…
As my colony used to say, mornings moments have gold in their beaks… wait, that sound horribly translated.
I for one rather have silver if that’s the case…

>Cops must have really good medical coverage, he doesn’t look like he was set on fire at all.
I might have exaggerating my heroic deeds a slight bit. It was mostly my clothes that caught fire and only for a second or two before I was put out.
So… no neat scars to show of your brave actions?
Well… I’m still got some bandages around one of my legs. The doc said to take it easy so that my feathers down there grow out properly again.
…down there?
I was kind of sitting on the SAI when it self-combusted. Don’t worry, fair Rishi, other than a few signed leg feathers, the only thing that was hurt was my pride!
That’s what I’m worried about. I was hoping to make good use of your pride later.
…I’m… not sure what you mean by that, lady Rishi?
>I wonder what he would say if you asked him what it’s like to have a mouth?
A mouth? Um… well… it’s… not that simple to explain? It’s nice, I guess?
It does have some uses that I actually a bit jealous… especially with other people.
Ah, yes, if you want to be lewd about it, kissing is quite… delightful, yes.
…I was actually thinking about something even more lewd, but I digress. (Is kissing even lewd in the first place?)

Kaktus 2019/06/28(Fri)14:14 No. 937545 ID: 1301e8
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>Tell Leon that in order to make it up to you for waking you up so early, he’s gotta help you with a case.
Oh? A case? Nothing unethical, I hope?
Wouldn’t dream of it. I’ve been hired to track down an artist that’s won a prize at the local gallery.
Really? That’s new. Give me the details.

You go over everything you’ve come over so far with Leon, including the name “the great, green twin wyrms”, Drizu, the paintings and their special pigments as well as how they were delivered.

Sounds like an interesting case… and I do have some time to kill…
So you’re going to help me?
If you would share the glory of this honorable hunt then I will be at your side! Let it be such a magnificent quest that it will fit with the legends of yore!
Err…
As your valiant knight, I swear fealty to you, Lady Rishi, and I will not rest until we track down and slay these gigantic and magnificent twin wyrms told to us only in myths!
…are you messing with me or…?
Unless it’s get to late, of course, as I have a roleplaying game this afternoon.
A roleplaying game?
I play a lawful good paladin!
…of course you do.
Now! Where to begin on this epic journey!?
…I was thinking maybe look up all the Drizu’s on the station?
Hmm… we can also take a look at the shops that sells these pigments. By your description, it seems like you would need some kind of special permission to buy them… or at least to sell them. I’m sure the humble shopkeepers would be honored to help a pair of adventurers like us!
…this isn’t one of your roleplaying games, early bird.
Another venue of attack is to find out who was delivering the paintings to the gallery. If it’s a company then we can track them down through it.
That’s an idea too, yes.
Or we can just give out a public message that this artist has won a prize and we want to meet them in person?
I’m pretty sure my client would be pretty cross with me if I told everyone who would win the completion before she announced it herself.
Well… we just don’t need to mention the price, do we? We can just ask if someone knows who this “twin wyrm” is?
Hmm… maybe…
Well then, fearless leader, where do we begin this date of ours?
Date?
Quest. I meant quest. Nothing else.

>Quest. I meant quest. Nothing else.
Quest huh? So does that make me the fair maiden or the final best you face at the quest's end? Are you hoping to lay this beast perhaps?

but anyways I suggest starting with finding out who all the Drizu on the station are and then checking out the shops to try and narrow it down even more. We can then look for him through the delivery next if that don't work.

>>937545
>…I was thinking maybe look up all the Drizu’s on the station?
>Hmm…we can also take a look at the shops that sells these pigments.
Both of these.

>Or we can just give out a public message that this artist has won a prize and we want to meet them in person?
That wouldn’t work. That would only get a swarm of random people to show up and claim to be the artist because they’re hoping to get some easy money. We’d run the risk of giving the prize money to the wrong person.

>>937625
All of this.

A date it is! Lets look through some art stores.

>>937544
>Mouth talk
Rishi, have you ever considered saving up to get a mouth bio mod? There's plenty of things you could do with it. You could eat solid food, you could speak out loud instead of telepathically, you could kiss. You could even do some pretty lewd things with it, like what Lily was doing with your ovipositor yesterday.

I remember we got Rishi to agree to save up for a mouth bio mod in the previous version of this quest. I wonder if we can convince her to agree to save up for it this time? Maybe we'll actually get the mod this time around?

>>937726
>mouth bio mod
Yeah, Rishi think about that and see if you’d want it.

>>937726
I like the idea of Rishi with a mouth. Next time she's backed up with painfully full of eggsacs and she's hungry, she can just bend over and suck herself off! It'll solve two problems at once!

Kaktus 2019/07/01(Mon)14:02 No. 937890 ID: 1301e8
File 156201492155.png - (90.25KB , 700x550 , 13.png )

>Quest huh? So does that make me the fair maiden or the final beast you face at the quest's end?
Um… as beautiful as you are, I wouldn’t call y-you a fair… err… maiden anymore.
Oh? Then what would you call me?
A brave and mighty knight! Well, maybe not an actual dame, more of an knight errant at the moment, but a fair and beautiful knight none the less.
…I don’t think I’ve ever had anyone call me a knight before? Verily, it’s mostly about my hips or chest.
And they are fools to not see the beauty under that gorgeous shell of yours! Such a courageous and honorable lady is to be revered for her deeds, not solely her looks!
Huh… you really think highly of me, then?
As highly as you deserve after your heroic yesterday, fair Rishi. Highly enough for me to question why you would think I would consider you a beast to be conquered for any reason?
Well… I was thinking more in line of… heh… laying the beast, perhaps? To wrestle it to the ground and plunge your large… blade into its tight folds?~
Err… I t-think y-y-you mean slay, but y-yes, b-beast are for s-s-slaying and that’s that.
Heh…
>A date it is!
I mean… I g-guess? Weirdest date I’ve ever had, to be honest but… s-sure?
A date it is then!

>Going public would only get a swarm of random people to show up and claim to be the artist because they’re hoping to get some easy money. We’d run the risk of giving the prize money to the wrong person.
Hmm… you’re correct. As much as I’d like to believe in the goodness in the people, there will always be those that beget falsehood for their own winning. It is sad that there are such fools that lack honor!
>I suggest starting with finding out who all the Drizu on the station are and then checking out the shops to try and narrow it down even more. We can then look for him through the delivery next if that don't work.
So… look up the names first, then the shops and lastly the delivery? If that’s the plan then I’m honored to follow your lead, Rishi! So what first? Do we call them?
I’d rather see them in person. Easier to both read them and explain what we’re looking for.
I too prefers to converse in person. Just let me remove my badges so people won’t think this is official Peace Keeper business, alright?
I’d ask why you were wearing them in the first place if you weren’t going to work today anyway.
That’s like asking why a knight wear their armor! It’s their pride and honor, after all!
Right… now, are you ready to go? We’ll start with the closes one, a Driz-

-------------------

I’m sorry, but I have no idea who painted that thing. I’ve never seen a painting like that before. But hey, do you… want to hang later, maybe? No? Oh, alright, that’s fine…

--------------------

My apologies, but I do not believe I can be of aid. While I do recognize the art style from a painting in the local gallery, I cannot tell you anything other than that. Maybe the owner of the gallery can aid you further?

--------------------

Ma’am, we do not serve paintings here. Do you want to order something? Otherwise you’re holding up the line.

--------------------

Seems like so far we’re wing clipped completely.
We just have to trudge on. That’s the private eye way. Let’s see… the next one is working at… SolCorp HQ… great…
Luckily, he doesn’t seem to work in the building that the protests are covering, so we might get in without any delays.
I hope you’re right.

Kaktus 2019/07/01(Mon)14:02 No. 937891 ID: 1301e8
File 156201493001.png - (75.45KB , 700x550 , 14.png )

>Rishi, have you ever considered saving up to get a mouth bio mod? There's plenty of things you could do with it.
Not until you got to the station, no. Verily, you’re just so used to not seeing people with mouths you’ve never actually considered how it would be to have one.
>You could eat solid food, you could speak out loud instead of telepathically, you could kiss.
Why would you want to make a bunch of noise when telepathy is so much handier? As for solid food, you’ve never seen the things the Xeno’s eat as really that appetizing. Now kissing on the other hand… it would be interesting to feel how it is to snuggle in that strange way.
>You could even do some pretty lewd things with it.
…and that too, yes. You did get a rather big bonus from the Xaby job, ergo you might actually afford a mouth augmentation if you really desired it. Hmm… this will require further consideration and reflection.
>Next time she's backed up with painfully full of eggsacs and she's hungry, she can just bend over and suck herself off! It'll solve two problems at once!
... … …now that’s just disgusting, in more ways than one. Also, you have something called a spine?


I’m sorry, but Mr. Axio is very busy at the moment and can’t meet anyone at this time.

You find yourself inside one of the SolCorp. HQ buildings, right outside the office of a Mr. Axio, a high seated businessman within the corporation. His… charming secretary sadly won’t even let you contact him, let alone see him in person.

Is there any chance that we can get a meeting with this Mr. Axio?
Unless it’s business related then no. Mr. Axio won’t see anyone today, thanks to the current… situation outside.
Another dud? I mean, what’s the chance this is the guy we’re looking for?
A 100%. We just need to figure out a way to talk to him.
…100%? Why do you say that?

>>937891
That painting on the wall behind the secretary has the same style and paints as the painting we have.

>>937891
That painting on the wall behind the secretary is the same style and paints as the one of the artist we’re looking for.

>>937891
Not only is that painting on the wall in the same style and have the same paints, there is also a photo next to it with what looks like Drizu standing next to another Serpent wearing an apron covered in paints.

I think that Serpent next to Drizu in the photo is the guy we're looking for.

>…100%? Why do you say that?
look at the painting behind the secretary. Speaking of paintings, the picture of the two serpents next to it. Could we ask the secretary who they are. Might be able to find the other guy in the picture and us him to try and find our mystery artiest.

>>937891
Why don't we just ask the receptionist who the artist of the painting is? Or who's in that photo next to Drizu?

Tell Leon to check out the pictures on the wall behind the secretary. There's a portrait of, presumably, Mr. Drizu Axio done in the same style and medium as the Great Green Twin Wyrms' paintings. It even looks like it's signed the same way, but you'd need a closer look to be sure. And right next to it a photo of Mr. Axio and a male Serpens wearing a paint stained apron. You'd need a closer look, but those paint stains may be from the same pigments the Twin Wyrms uses. So it's high odds that that Serpens is the unknown artist.

Ask the secretary who's standing next to Mr. Axio in the photo behind her, then ask if that Serpens painted that portrait of Mr. Axio next to the photo. Then bring up the photo you took of the flower painting on your tablet and show it to the secretary, pointing out the "For Drizu" written on it. Tell her that you were hired to locate the artist, the Great Green Twin Wyrms, that painted this piece, among many others, because one of their recent pieces won a competition. Since Mr. Axio seems to know this artist, you hoped he'd share who they are, or at least be a go between to speak with them.

Can you discreetly take a photo of the pictures on the wall before you leave? As long as it's not illegal, that is. It'd be helpful to have a face to continue your search on if things otherwise fall through here.

>>937891
>As for solid food, you’ve never seen the things the Xeno’s eat as really that appetizing.
And that's your problem. You're seeing the food. You need to actually taste the food in order to understand why the Xenos like it so much!

>………now that’s just disgusting, in more ways than one.
If it's so bad, then why were Ben and Lily so eager to suck them down? Obviously it can't be that bad if they enjoyed eating them!

>…100%? Why do you say that?
The two obvious clues hanging on the wall behind the secretary.

>>937952
>don’t look at the food, taste it!
Well, you’re not wrong about that. Rishi did say she wanted to experience the other races different cultures and the food is a part of their culture.

.....eh, let’s just wait until later to decide if she should get a mouth or not.

isn't the serpen in the painting the same one we just talked to a moment ago
which one of them said what

>>937984
Hm, the male Serpens in the first update post's image does have a very similar if not same shaped and colored head as the one in the photo on the wall in the second update post's image. Same kind and color of scarf-like thing around his neck too. The suit's different, though. Maybe Rishi could tell if they looked alike since we can't tell from how low detail the characters are.

>>937977
>Wait until later to decide on getting mouth or not.
How about this? Let's wait until Rishi has at least triple the money needed to get a mouth. That way she can afford the mouth and still be able to have money left over to pay for her apartment.

We should also wait until we don't have any cases going on, since Rishi would most likely be out of commission while recovering from the operation.

>>938013
Hey, lets not talk like it's a done deal that she's gonna get it. It may not even be medically and technically possible to get a alteration that invasive and complex. And if it is possible, it might be really damn expensive. It might also be underwhelming in the end.

How 'bout Rishi does some detective work on this and researches other Serpens that have gotten a mouth put in. Read up on how well it went for 'em, what they got out of it, if they regretted it and why. Maybe even contact 'em if they're on-station.

In the mean time, she could maybe "test drive" having a mouth if a BTL would allow her to experience the senses of another species. Just rent a BTL that'd include the aspect of having a mouth she's interested in and try it out.

You're a good cop but you won't be making detective anytime soon. Observe the back wall.

If the secretary still absolutely cannot be persuaded to let you through- seriously, she's looking at a cop and a PI and thinks nah, no way this is important?- ask her who's wearing the artist's smock in the picture behind her.

>>938024
>Do research first
Can we at least agree to get a Sakkilian mouth? You saw how Ben swallowed those cactus fruits whole, right? No gag reflex! That would be perfect for giving blowjobs!

>>938033
I think we’re getting a little too off topic here.

Let’s focus on those pictures behind the secretary for now.

Kaktus 2019/07/07(Sun)15:00 No. 938496 ID: 1301e8
File 156253680108.png - (64.44KB , 700x550 , 15.png )

>And that's your problem. You're seeing the food. You need to actually taste the food in order to understand why the Xenos like it so much!
And chew with those weird bone things they have in their mouths… *shudder*
>Rishi did say she wanted to experience the other races different cultures and the food is a part of their culture.
You guess that’s right… but you were more interested in other parts of their culture, like music, games and… well, cocks and ass.
>If it's so bad, then why were Ben and Lily so eager to suck them down? Obviously it can't be that bad if they enjoyed eating them!
It probably wouldn’t be so bad sucking Ben dry or eating Lily out, true, but that’s not the same thing. Self-pleasuring that way is just… ugh… and besides, you’re straight. You don’t like ovipositors in that way.

>How about this? Let's wait until Rishi has at least triple the money needed to get a mouth. That way she can afford the mouth and still be able to have money left over to pay for her apartment.
Lily just paid you for like three moths work. Money isn’t the problem right now.
>We should also wait until we don't have any cases going on, since Rishi would most likely be out of commission while recovering from the operation.
Now that would probably be prudent. Verily, you aren’t sure how fast they can make augmentations like that so it would be less than optimal if you had other obligations at the time.
>In the meantime, she could maybe "test drive" having a mouth if a BTL would allow her to experience the senses of another species.
Oh! Now that’s an idea! You’re still a bit green on BTL’s, but it’s worth a try, is it not? After all, you do know a person who rents them out, right?
>Can we at least agree to get a Sakkilian mouth? You saw how Ben swallowed those cactus fruits whole, right? No gag reflex! That would be perfect for giving blowjobs!
And they have those wicked sharp teeth as well. If you’re going for a mouth, you might as well get one with a nice, toothy smile, eh?


>Tell Leon to check out the pictures on the wall behind the secretary.
Oh? That painting does look familiar, yes.
>That painting on the wall behind the secretary is the same style and paints as the one of the artist we’re looking for.
Still, it might just be done in the same style?
Look at the signature. GGTW TA. Great Green Twin Wyrm TA.
Hmm… and it’s in the office of Drizu Axio. TA. Something Axio?
It’s possible, though odd. Most Serpents gets a surname only a few people around them have.
>There is also a photo next to it with what looks like Drizu standing next to another Serpent wearing an apron covered in paints.
That looks like an artist… and I guess that’s Drizu? They look a lot like each other, so… are they brothers, maybe?
Serpents don’t really have siblings. They might be from the same brood mother… or have the same father or other mother. Verily, most of us don’t really care that much about our ancestry. Ergo we don’t usually form family units like you do. I for one don’t have a family like you have, Leon.
…
…did I say something wrong?
No, it’s nothing. Forget about it.
>Isn't the serpent in the painting the same one we just talked to a moment ago?
Hmm… you don’t think so, no. They do have some familiar features, sure, but they aren’t the same person. They are both probably laid here on the station so they might share some genetic material in some way.
>Can you discreetly take a photo of the pictures on the wall before you leave?
Done and done.


>Why don't we just ask the receptionist who the artist of the painting is?
I’m sorry, but I don’t know anything about the paintings Mr. Axio have put up here.
>Or who's in that photo next to Drizu?
I’m sorry, but I don’t know anything about the paintings Mr. Axio have put up here.
>Tell her that you were hired to locate the artist, the Great Green Twin Wyrms, that painted this piece, among many others, because one of their recent pieces won a competition.
I’m sorry, but I don’t know anything about the paintings Mr. Axio have put up here.
This is getting repetitive.
We might need to convince this fair maiden of the importance of our quest a bit better.
Call me fair maiden again and I’ll call security.
Fair enough.
I’m sorry, but I simply can’t see why this artist you’re looking for have to do with Mr. Axio
>Bring up the photo you took of the flower painting on your tablet and show it to the secretary, pointing out the "For Drizu" written on it.
…Drizu is his first name, correct, but it might be some other Drizu.
Not only does this painting have his name on it, he also have a painting done by the same artist hanging right behind you as well as a photo of himself and an unknown painter. Ergo, the chances of him knowing the person we are looking for is very high, is it not?
…very well, I’ll try and ask Drizu about it. Will you excuse me for a moment?

The secretary connects herself to the intercom and calls this Mr. Axio. It takes quite some time before a muffled voice is heard in the Hivers earpiece and even if you can’t actually hear what is being said in the other end, you can hear the anger in the voice.

Yes, sir… no, sir… It’s not sir… Someone here is looking for a… um… what was it? Great green worm?
Great Green Twin Wyrm.
Great Green Twin Wyrm, Sir.

It goes quiet for some time on Mr. Axio’s end, before he calmly says something to the Hiver secretary.

As you wish sir. Very well, sir. I’ll get right to it, sir.
Ah, good news, I hope?
Did he know who the artist was?
Mr. Axio said that you two have to leave immediately or we’ll call security to escort you out. You were also told to never speak, contact or come near Mr. Axio ever again or he will call the Peace Keepers and have you arrested for harassment.
…that’s a bit… harsh?
I’m sorry, but I’ll have to ask you to leave.

This isn’t the reaction you expected… but it’s an interesting reaction none the less, isn’t it?

>>938496
>weird mouth parts
Meh, you don't need those. You can eat soft foods without teeth. Also, uh, you won't have a gag reflex regardless of what mouth you pick, since you don't breathe through that passage. ...where do Serpens breathe from anyway?

>getting thrown out
Would it help if he knew who you two were? I mean he can't really have you arrested for harassment since you have assistance from a cop in the matter.
I suspect GGTW is in trouble with some unsavory folk. You can offer your assistance in exchange for the delivery of the message, either in person or in some way that you can positively confirm.

Well, crap. Looks like there's no way you're gonna be speaking to Mr. Axio on this. Don't dig your hole deeper by trying to talk your way around this. Quickly thank the secretary for her time and rapidly leave the premises. Once you're well away from here, then you can talk with Leon.

From Mr. Axio's actions it appears he's at least a associate of our unknown Wyrm, probably a friend. It also appears you miscalculated in trying to speak with Mr. Axio. It was probable that a associate of the Great Green Twin Wyrm would also know of the artist's desire to remain anonymous, thus would not help in identifying the artist.

And it's likely that Mr. Axio is already calling the Wyrm to warn him of two people searching for him. Also likely that the Wyrm will throw the same threat of harassment charges in you two's faces if you get near him. Probably gonna have to change tactics to indirectly locating him.

Also check the law on-station regarding harassment. You, Leon and your client don't want to end up on the receiving end of legal action by a well funded Sol Corp exec for "unmasking" his artist friend.

As for where to go next, your best lead is in that photo of Mr. Axio and who you presume to be the artist you seek. Send a copy of it over to Leon to look at with you. In the background there appears to be a bar of some sort, going by the lit "OPEN" sign and outline of three different drink glasses to its right. The sign above is cut off horizontally, but there's enough to go on. '[D|O|U|W] R L [A|H] M W [A|H] V L R' And a unknown number of letters before and after. You can narrow down what some of the letters are more if you track down the font used. But do a search of New Horizon bars with these letters in their name.

Another lead to follow would be to show the photo of Mr. Axio and the artist at the shops that sell the special pigments and ask if they've sold to the Serpens in the apron. You can also ask the same at the delivery service, though it's likely they're not allowed to share who hires them.

>>938502
>I mean he can't really have you arrested for harassment since you have assistance from a cop in the matter.
Leon is off the clock right now, thus this is in no way a police matter or case and he's just a ordinary citizen. Thus, he can be charged with harassment.

>I suspect GGTW is in trouble with some unsavory folk. You can offer your assistance in exchange for the delivery of the message, either in person or in some way that you can positively confirm.
Where the heck did you get that idea from? To me it looks much more like Mr. Axio's backing up a friend who wanted to remain anonymous in sharing their artwork by doing what he has the authority to do: Kick 'em out of his place of work and forbid them from speaking to or coming near him, cutting off this lead entirely.

That's probably DREAMWEAVER in the background.

Oh, if we are leaving, we should at least leave our contact information behind. Both Leon's and Rishi's.

>>938496
>They do have some familiar features, sure, but they aren’t the same person.
Of course they aren't. The Serpent in the picture with Drizu is fat and/or pregnant, the other Serpents you talked to earlier weren't fat and/or pregnant.

>I’m sorry, but I’ll have to ask you to leave.
"Very well. If your boss changes his mind, then please give him my contact info here." Hand the secretary one of your business cards.

After you leave, you've got another lead. The location in the photo of Drizu and the painter Serpent. Head over there and start looking around.

>>938496
>And chew with those weird bone things they have in their mouths… *shudder*
You talking about teeth? Or the jaw bone? Because if it’s the jaw bone, that’s actually pretty important, since without it, everyone’s mouth would be hanging open and flopping all over the place. That would be very unappealing and not exactly something you’d want to get a blowjob from.

So, yeah, that’s a pretty necessary part of the mouth that you shouldn’t leave out.

>Now that would probably be prudent. Verily, you aren’t sure how fast they can make augmentations like that so it would be less than optimal if you had other obligations at the time.
You know what would help with that? If you hired on a partner to help you out. A second Private Eye would be helpful instead of hoping the people you met are willing to take time out of their day to help you. Plus, your partner would be able to continue doing cases while you’re getting the mod and recovering from the operation.

Too bad you don’t know anyone that has any detective skills and in need of a job. Guess you’ll have to be on your own for now.

>Oh! Now that’s an idea! You’re still a bit green on BTL’s, but it’s worth a try, is it not? After all, you do know a person who rents them out, right?
Murderer of Hatred, aka Melodies of Harmony, aka MoH.

>…did I say something wrong?
>No, it’s nothing. Forget about it.
He’s probably thinking about how not having family sounds lonely and he’s glad he wasn’t born a Serpent.

>being told to get out
Leave a business card in case Drizu changes his mind on not wanting to talk.

Let’s look up publicly available information on Drizu Axio on the internet to see if we can find out anything about him or a list of people he works with. We might find more pictures of that other Serpent along with a name.

>>938523
>The Serpent in the picture with Drizu is fat and/or pregnant
.....I mean, we’ve never seen a fat or a pregnant Serpent, so I don’t know which it is either.

>go to location in picture
Sounds like a plan.

Kaktus 2019/07/10(Wed)15:52 No. 938776 ID: 1301e8
File 156279915612.png - (54.38KB , 700x550 , 16.png )

>You can eat soft foods without teeth.
It’s not the teeth that are so disturbing; it’s the… chewing part. It just looks and sounds so… so… ugh…
>Also, uh, you won't have a gag reflex regardless of what mouth you pick, since you don't breathe through that passage.
Indeed, you’re pretty sure this gag reflex thing isn’t even part of the mouth, ergo you won’t get one if you get a mouth addon.
>...where do Serpens breathe from anyway?
Your skin? Like a normal person?

>To much work? You know what would help with that? If you hired on a partner to help you out.
You don’t have the cash to hire someone like that! Well, at least if you’re going for your usual rates. If you can get a few more clients like Lily then maybe. But verily, you do actually prefer to work alone… most of the time…
>He’s probably thinking about how not having family sounds lonely and he’s glad he wasn’t born a Serpent.
That does sound like something a xeno would do, yes.
>I mean he can't really have you arrested for harassment since you have assistance from a cop in the matter.
He’s not on duty and this isn’t a matter of the law, thus we have no extra rights compared to anyone else.
>Also check the law on-station regarding harassment.
For it to be harassment you need to disturb him persistently and repeatedly after being told to stop with the intent to torment him. Ergo, he’s currently overacting, but let’s not push it.

>Well, crap. Looks like there's no way you're gonna be speaking to Mr. Axio on this. Don't dig your hole deeper by trying to talk your way around this.
Indeed, no need to burn any more ships. Let’s go while we’re still ahead.

>"Very well. If your boss changes his mind, then please give him my contact info here." Hand the secretary one of your business cards.
I’ll make sure that Mr. Axio will get this. Now, I’m sorry, but you’ll have to leave.
Don’t worry, fair maiden, as much as it saddens me to leave your charming presence, I will disembark at your behest.
…I’m calling security.
And we’ve already left.


>I suspect GGTW is in trouble with some unsavory folk.
Let’s not jump to any conclusions yet. We still lack all too much information on the matter to make any concrete assumptions.
>It was probable that an associate of the Great Green Twin Wyrm would also know of the artist's desire to remain anonymous, thus would not help in identifying the artist.
While we can agree that he knows this Great wyrm and that he has a close relationship with him, we cannot yet say what his motives for his action is nor if this artist actually desires to be anonymous or not.
>And it's likely that Mr. Axio is already calling the Wyrm to warn him of two people searching for him. Also likely that the Wyrm will throw the same threat of harassment charges in you two's faces if you get near him.
Hmm... while it’s possible that he might try and contact this Wyrm, which is something we might use, we still have no idea what either of their motives are, do we?

>Let’s look up publicly available information on Drizu Axio on the internet to see if we can find out anything about him or a list of people he works with. We might find more pictures of that other Serpent along with a name.
Let’s see… works for Sol Corp, born here, lives top side, have no public social profiles… punched a reporter in the face about a year ago? Wait, what?
Ah, I think I remember that one. Apparently they found some juicy rumor about some high ranking worker at Sol Corp and tried to dig up some evidence. I guess that rumor was about Mr. Axio? …or someone that he might now?
Verily, his might explain his reaction to us, if anything. What was the rumor about?
I have no idea. As far as I know, they never found anything and thus were unable to publish anything. Either that, or Sol Corp gave them cash to forsake their honor and not publish anything.
>From Mr. Axio's actions it appears he's at least an associate of our unknown Wyrm, probably a friend.
He definitely honors this wyrm as a close friend, if he’s willing to go down in glory for him.

>As for where to go next, your best lead is in that photo of Mr. Axio and who you presume to be the artist you seek. In the background there appears to be a bar of some sort, going by the lit "OPEN" sign and outline of three different drink glasses to its right.
But there’s a thousand bars on this station. We can’t visit them all can we?
But we can find the right one through other means.
>That's probably DREAMWEAVER in the background.
Hmm… I’m sure I’ve heard that name before.
The Dreamweaver spire is right next to the spire you live in, the Sunstrider spire. Hmm… and if this bar is located there, I might know which bar that is, if we’re unlucky. It’s called the “Den of the Dreamweaver”.
Looking it up on the web, the sign on that club does seem to match the one in the photo, but I’m having a hard time finding any other information about the place. All it says is that’s it invite only?
Only way to get in is being invited by someone that’s already a member. It’s kind of a private club, after all. It’s also a wretched hive of scum and villainy.
What makes you say that?
There’s been a lots of arrest for selling illegal substances there… and other… things. I for one rather not taint my honor by frequent such an establishment, even once.
Ah… so it’s that kind of private club, I see. I guess I know now how they “dreamweave”, so to speak. The question is then… how do we get in?
Simply, we don’t. Let’s go with another lead instead?

>>938776
>no extra rights
Yeah but it's NOT harassment, and you have a witness to that who is a cop. Harassment isn't simply attempting to speak to someone more than once, it involves repeated interactions that make them feel threatened. If you could charge someone with harassment for a petty reason like that and make it stick, reporters would have a much harder time doing their jobs. On the other hand, they are probably legally allowed to ban you from entering the building for pretty much any reason, as it's private property.

Also you gave them YOUR business card but didn't tell them you were working alongside a police officer? Wait, should she already know that since he's in uniform?

>dreamweaver bar lead, illegal things go on in there
Seems you'll have to investigate that without Leon. You'll probably have to contact your sakkilian informant to get an invite.
Also that could be where the pigment comes from, since the artist is smeared with it in the photo... checking the shops might be a dead end. Also they're not too likely to discuss a legally grey paint while a cop is standing there.

I say let's track down the deliveryman next.

Lets not assume that Dr. Axio and our Wyrm artist were there to visit the Den of the Dreamweaver. Notice that they took the photo outside the club, not inside. Now, it might be because of a strict "no photography inside" rule the club has, given it's clientele. But it might also be that they took a photo there due to the club's reputation, or just by chance. Also, check on the club's website for this, but the place may have a dress code, which GGTW doesn't look like he'd pass dressed like that. But even if there isn't a dress code, he's dressed like he just came out of his studio. You'd expect he'd at least hang up his apron before heading out, especially if it's spattered with Tharoonian crystal pigment, a toxic contact hazard to non-Serpens. So, it's fairly likely that GGTW's studio is near to the Den of the Dreamweaver. Just hope it's not inside the club.

Start searching for painting studio spaces near Den of the Dreamweaver. It's also possible that GGTW lives nearby, so you'll have to consider showing this photo to the nearby store owners to ask if they've seen him around.

See if you can dig up any photos of the interior of the Den of the Dreamweaver; The club's website might have some. You're specifically looking for its decor. It's possible that GGTW sold some of his paintings to the club. It's also possible that if he works out of the club then some of his pieces were hung on its walls.

Showing the photo of GGTW to the folks working at the four stores that legally can sell the Tharoonian crystal pigment would also be another lead to follow. See if any of them remember a portly male Serpens like the one in the photo buying from 'em. At the same time you can ask how often they sell that particular pigment. Start with the art supplier in the Dreamweaver spire. If they all haven't sold any in awhile, then that'll raise questions of where GGTW is getting his pigments from. Perhaps from the Den of the Dreamweaver, if they're smuggling pure Tharoonian crystals through the place.

Oh, and check the requirements for artists purchasing Tharoonian crystal pigment legally from a store. You need to record your ID? Have permits to show you have proper gear to handle and store it? That kind of thing.

Look up where the drop offs for the delivery company that delivered the paintings are. You'll want to show GGTW's photo to whoever works the one nearest the Den of the Dreamweaver and ask if they've seen him before.

And ask Leon if he could swing by his place to change his clothes. Sorry to say, but that cap and shirt screams PK officer even without the badges. Don't want anyone to clam up 'cause they think they're dealing with a particularly inept undercover PK officer.

>>938781
>Also you gave them YOUR business card but didn't tell them you were working alongside a police officer?
Because Leon would get in hot water for lending credence to a non-PK investigation. Could lead to him getting busted down to beat cop or stuck on desk duty.

>You'll probably have to contact your sakkilian informant to get an invite.
Wha? Who? ...Benjamin?! You think Ben would be a Den of the Dreamweaver member? He's much more street gang adjacent than close to the organized crime that'd run out of a club like that. ...But maybe he knows somebody who's closer to that circle than him. Wouldn't hurt to ask him.

>>938781
>You'll probably have to contact your sakkilian informant to get an invite.
If you’re talking about Ben, then you’re making a lot of assumptions here. Just because he dresses up like a delinquent, that doesn’t mean he has an invite to the Den of the Dreamweaver nor does it mean that he knows someone that does have an invite.

>>938783
This sounds like a good plan.

>ask Leon to change
That’s probably for the best. But maybe he should keep his badge, weapon, and handcuffs? Just in case we do run across something illegal, we can let him make an arrest.

.....why exactly was he wearing his uniform and badge on his paid day off in the first place?

>>938783
I agree with this.

Kaktus 2019/07/17(Wed)15:14 No. 939478 ID: 1301e8
File 156340168356.png - (91.57KB , 700x550 , 17.png )

>Yeah but it's NOT harassment, and you have a witness to that who is a cop.
You know it’s not harassment. Verily, they probably know it’s not harassment. But that doesn’t mean they’ll get the PK involved and make the whole thing complicated and time consuming. What you do know is if they are threatening harassment charges, they probably won’t help you if you continue to bother them. Quite the opposite, in fact.
>On the other hand, they are probably legally allowed to ban you from entering the building for pretty much any reason, as it's private property.
There’s also that. So let’s not bug him further without good reason so we won’t get thrown out of that place permanently.
>You gave them YOUR business card but didn't tell them you were working alongside a police officer?
Leon isn’t on duty. This isn’t official PK business. Ergo, telling people that we’re working with a police officer would be a less than ideal idea.

>Lets not assume that Dr. Axio and our Wyrm artist were there to visit the Den of the Dreamweaver.
Notice that they took the photo outside the club, not inside.
Indeed, let’s not jump to any conclusions just yet. The question is, why is the Den the backdrop in the first place? There’s also the fact that this Wyrm character is dressed like he just came out of a studio, isn’t he? Is there some kind of studio inside the club? Or is it just nearby? Hmm…
>Start searching for painting studio spaces near Den of the Dreamweaver.
There’s a bunch of housing and stores around the place, but no direct studio. Verily, it might be something private. Ergo, you won’t find it like this.
>Check on the club's website.
“Please enter your username and password”… well, that’s helpful.
>See if you can dig up any photos of the interior of the Den of the Dreamweaver.
Can’t find any. It seems like they value their privacy.

>Seems you'll have to investigate that without Leon. You'll probably have to contact your sakkilian informant to get an invite.
You’re not sure why Ben would be part of a club like that, but you guess it won’t hurt to ask?
The fuck do you think I’m part of some elitist club of wankers? Those things are for the rich fuckers up top, you hear? If you want an invite, call some rich bitch, not me.
I just thought you would be “cool” enough to be part of a club like that.
Yeah, no, I’m not fucking radical enough to be in some kind of secret club like that, no. I don’t know why, though… I’m the most radical fucker around! What can I do to become even more radical?
Start by not using the word radical… and maybe dial down the crude language as well.
Eh, fuck me, you hear?
I will, later.
Err… I d-d-didn’t actually-
But I’ve also got another thing I wanted to ask you. See, I got this friend, a Marquis Isabella, who’s looking for a motive for her painting class at the Sunstrider gallery of grounded and local art, and she was very excite of painting someone like… well, you.
…a modeling job? Is there any dough in it for me?
Well, she seems rich… and generous? Ergo, yes? But I have to warn you, she might look down on you a bit.
…does she ‘ave a hot bod?
…she’s bit thin and on the small side, but yes?
Better being called trash by someone with a hot bod than the wankers here, and I need the extra money anyway. Speaking of money, got to go or my boss will ‘ave my bloody head. Smell you later, you hear?
Smell you later, Ben.

>ask Leon if he could swing by his place to change his clothes.
What is wrong with my shining armor of valor!?
It still looks kind of like a uniform of some kind, even if it isn’t an official PK one.
Nonsense! These cloths only show that I’m willing to jump into glorious combat and nothing more!
…do you even have other clothes?
Err… of course… it’s just… well… the clothes I have are a bit too casual and wouldn’t be very fitting for work like this. I would not besmirch the honor of a Knight errant such as you, lady Rishi, by wearing clothes that wouldn’t show off our valor!
Ugh… fine, you can keep your current outfit.
Splendid!

>Check the requirements for artists purchasing Tharoonian crystal pigment legally from a store. You need to record your ID? Have permits to show you have proper gear to handle and store it?
You need some kind of permit granted by the station command center, but the details what, exactly, you need to do is sketchy at best. It does mention that you’ll need to talk to some Serpent representative from your home planet in person to get the permit, so you guess most of the information is from there? Either way, it’s not something you’ll just buy on a whim.
>Showing the photo of GGTW to the folks working at the four stores that legally can sell the Tharoonian crystal pigment would also be another lead to follow. Start with the art supplier in the Dreamweaver spire.
Can’t say I’ve ever seen someone like that, no sir.
It’s ma’am, ma’am.
It’s sir, ma’am.
And these Tharoonian crystals? Have you had the honor to sell any of them?
You mean the pigment? No, sir, there’s no real market for it here. We don’t even stock it here, though you can put up an order to have it shipped to the station. In fact, we haven’t sold any for almost a year. Last time anyone wanted the stuff was when a private company located just a few floors up in this spire ordered a rather large batch of it, ma’am.
Let me guess, it was a club called the Den of Dreamweavers?
How did you know, ma’am? I mean… I’m not allowed to say who we sold it to, ma’am.
Thank you for your time, m- …sir.

So… this club… does it have some kind of paint studio or…?
Can you paint, say, walls with this paint? This is a club of unsavory types. Having such a livid paint on your walls would be something such a person would strive for, yes?
No matter what they did with the paint, this doesn’t help us get any closer to the person we’re looking for, with the exception of confirming that this club is more important than just being a backdrop.
Than what kind of adventure awaits us hereafter? Shall we try and get into the club? Maybe try and contact this Wyrm if he’s in there? If only we knew his name… oh! Or we can have a glorious stake out! Just the two of us! Right outside the club! This Wyrm is bound to make an appearance, no?
Hmm….

>>939478
>leon isn't active PK, less than ideal
It would establish an air of legitimacy, is what I'm saying. The guy probably thinks you two are trying to dig up dirt on him, because that exact thing has happened before. On the other hand since the Den of the Dreamweaver is basically a drug den, you might be better served detaching yourself from the PK entirely.

>case the joint?
Seems like that could backfire. Yes, you know TGGTW goes there and likely paints there, but due to the establishment's reputation, I don't think anyone would want you seeing who its regulars are. Though, if you can do so at an acceptable distance it might be okay?
Otherwise, you'd need to approach the place as someone trustworthy, and the invite is the only way to do that.
>need an invite from someone high class
What about the Marquis? If she can't get you an invite, she might know someone who could.

As for what else to do next, we could look at who else Drizu knows and frequents with. Maybe one of his other associates knows TGGTW? If we can get the real name of the artist we can contact them without getting our hands dirty.

Considering the club's clientele and how much they want to keep what goes on in there secret, it's highly doubtful either of you would be able to bluff your way in. And don't even think of sneaking or breaking in. The place likely has a top quality security system, or at least quality guards and bouncers. You'd get caught right off and they'd call in the Peacekeepers to arrest you for trespass or breaking and entering, at best.

Now, a stake out would be safe to do, but expect you two would be spotted by the club's bouncers or security staff pretty quickly. The club certainly has been staked out before and often by all manner of folk after their clientele and taken precautions. Expect there to be cameras watching up and down the street outside and over every entrance, monitoring for suspicious loiterers. Also figure there'll be a discreet back way in, if not a whole enclosed vehicle entrance. But if you do stake the place out, split up well before you go there and set up up and down the street at different times, Leon with a clear view of the club's main entrance, you with barely a view of it. (Leon will hopefully draw their attention away from you.)

There's also the option to just go right up to the club's entrance and explain to the bouncer why you're there and to relay a message to the GGTW for you. After all, you're just here to get Isabella a way to communicate with the GGTW so she can gush to him about his work and try to convince him to accept his award in person or at least meet her, right? She doesn't even need his name for that. And if he's totally not receptive to being contacted, then that's that. Your job is done. Prying any more after he's said he doesn't want to talk and you'd open up the potential for harassment charges for yourself and Isabelle.

It's a slim chance, but perhaps Isabelle knows someone who's a member of the club that would be willing to take you in as a guest. And in the same vein, it's possible Lily's dad knows someone who's a member of the club, since he probably has connections with smuggling organizations. Though, it's doubtful he'd risk such connections to get you into this club, even after you saved Xaby's life.

Remember how the paintings were signed with a "TA" after Great Green Twin Wyrms and you thought the "A" stood for Axio? It's a long shot, but try searching for all the male Serpens on New Horizon with the first initial "T" and surname "Axio" and see if you get a matching photo. If that doesn't work, widen the net to those male Serpens with the initials "T.A." Oh, and try narrowing it at first to just those male Serpens hatched on New Horizon before widening it to all male Serpens.

Look up the symptoms of Tharoonian crystal poisoning on non-Serpens, the quantity needed for each level of symptoms, how easy it is to test for such poisoning and if anyone on New Horizon has had those symptoms or died from them. Also check what effect they have on Serpens and all the reasons they're totally prohibited from sale. And look up if anyone has ever extracted the crystals from Tharoonian crystal pigment to get pure or impure Tharoonian crystals. There's a small possibility that the club bought the pigments not just for GGTW's artistic works but to secretly extract a small quantity of Tharoonian crystals from the pigments.

Ask Leon why he went from wanting to avoid this club and follow another lead to wanting to stake it out or even get inside it. Also ask him how he knew what kind of stuff goes on in there, what kind of stuff he's heard goes on in there and why the Peacekeepers haven't shut the place down by now if it's a known criminal enterprise.

Oh, and also get photos and delivery dates for all of GGTW's paintings the Sunstrider Gallery got from the gallery. Check when the earliest painting came in relative to when the club purchased the Tharoonian crystal pigment. After that, both you and Leon flip through the paintings in chronological order and note when there were major shifts in the subject matter, style or technique.

And do a search for what's known to increase a Serpens' level of creativity, be it legal, illicit, pharmacological, biomedical, cybernetic, whatever. It's possible GGTW's uptick in creativity is due to outside assistance, possibly illegal.

Also, another possible way to get a message to the GGTW is to ask the delivery company he uses to deliver a letter back to whoever brought the paintings to the company. This way the company won't have to break its confidentiality of the sender's name and location.

My guess is either forgery operation or a crime ring is desperate to get something dangerous that they could use imported onto the station. Whatja say Leo, wanna put money on a theory?

I'd update the Marquis first.

Kaktus 2019/07/30(Tue)15:30 No. 941012 ID: 1301e8
File 156452580817.png - (102.07KB , 700x550 , 18.png )

>My guess is either forgery operation or a crime ring is desperate to get something dangerous that they could use imported onto the station.
Let’s not jump to any conclusions. For all we know there might be a more benign reason why they bought that pigment. Verily, does it really matter to you? After all, you’re just here to get in touch with this artist and nothing more.
>Look up the symptoms of Tharoonian crystal poisoning on non-Serpens, the quantity needed for each level of symptoms, how easy it is to test for such poisoning and if anyone on New Horizon has had those symptoms or died from them.
It starts out with simple stuff, like nausea and dizziness. Then itching and skin irritation. Then after prolonged exposure it will start to degenerate your muscle mass slightly. The pigment won’t do anything worse than that, but the actual living, still growing crystal will have some really bad effect on aliens. Not only does it cause cellular diseases that might be lethal, but they might even create slight mutations in the subject, though they have usually ceased to live by that point. Geez, those things are growing all over the seafloor back home… are they really this dangerous to the Xenos? Luckily, there doesn’t seem to be a way to extract them from the planet without killing the crystal plant. Ergo, it’s no surprise that there are not registered cases of Tharoonian poison on this station since it was constructed.
>Also check what effect they have on Serpens and all the reasons they're totally prohibited from sale.
They don’t have any effect on us at all, even if we consumed it. The reason why it’s hard to buy is because it’s toxic and has very few uses outside some fridge applications… like painting.
>We could look at who else Drizu knows and frequents with.
…according to his social profile online… a ton of people. You’ll need to narrow it down if you’d want to find anything useful, but even then it’s not Drizu we’re after, is it?


>Ask Leon why he went from wanting to avoid this club and follow another lead to wanting to stake it out or even get inside it.
…to be honest, I was just hoping for an old fashioned stakeout, where would pass the time with tales of our glory and maybe share a donut or two… you know, like in the comics? I’ve always wanted to be part of one of those!
…you do realize a stakeout is really tedious and monotonous, correct?
But… but we’ll have donuts, coffee and the radio and… and…
Also, I don’t have a mouth, ergo I can’t eat these donuts you speak off.
What? You’ve never eaten a donut!? Oh, such injustice cannot be allowed! You have to go get a mouth at once so you can enjoy the glorious taste of the honorable donut!
…I’ll take that argument into consideration for when I’ll get a mouth module.
>Also ask him how he knew what kind of stuff goes on in there, what kind of stuff he's heard goes on in there and why the Peacekeepers haven't shut the place down by now if it's a known criminal enterprise.
Criminal enterprise is a bit much, it’s more akin a den of… debauchery and depravity. A Lair of lasciviousness and lechery. A sanctuary of sensuality and-
Yes, yes, I get it. It’s a drug den. I still don’t see why the Peace Keepers keeps the place open.
That’s because the club itself doesn’t actually encourage the use of anything illegal nor provide the means to acquire it. They simply provide a private place for people to… do as they please. The only thing they are guilty of is lacking the honor to stand up to those things! Oh, and not regulating it properly, which results in fines and not closure.
…so you can’t actually shut them down?
We do at times make glorious raids against their vile ilk, but at most we can arrest a few substance abusers. So far we’ve not been able to prove they got the illegal substance at the club.
Verily, if they are competent, they won’t actually sell anything illegal in there. Ergo, there are probably a bunch of dealers nearby instead. The perfect crime is letting someone else do the crime, no?
Hmm… I’ll have to talk to the chief and see if we can catch those dealers in the act. Thank you for your glorious help, lady Rishi.
>Oh, and also get photos and delivery dates for all of GGTW's paintings the Sunstrider Gallery got from the gallery. Check when the earliest painting came in relative to when the club purchased the Tharoonian crystal pigment. After that, both you and Leon flip through the paintings in chronological order and note when there were major shifts in the subject matter, style or technique.
Let’s see… he mostly drew objects… then suddenly, there’s… I’m not sure what this is?
…I’m pretty sure that’s… some kind of genital? I know this painting was in the adult section at least but… hmm…
Either way, his art style didn’t change until about a month ago, so it can’t be connected with the club getting the paint, can it?
Let’s not jump to conclusions. Verily, for all we know, the painting the gallery just received might have been painted a year ago... or he’s only sending his best painting and thus might have skipped over a few of his new style. Ergo, we cannot say if the two events are connected or not just yet.
Ah, that is true! I am honored to have such an experienced and intelligent knight at my side as you, lady Rishi!
…thank you.
>And do a search for what's known to increase a Serpens' level of creativity, be it legal, illicit, pharmacological, biomedical, cybernetic, whatever.
There are a lot of difference illegal substances that can increase “creativity”, but they usually damage hand coordination and the like. There’s of course also all kind of bio and cybernetic mods that might increase brain functions, though they are legal if expensive.

>Remember how the paintings were signed with a "TA" after Great Green Twin Wyrms and you thought the "A" stood for Axio?
…if his last name is Axio, his first name wouldn’t be hard to find.
T. Axio… do we have any Serpents on the station with that name?
Tezo Axio. That’s the only Axio with a T name.
Who’s social profile is nearly completely barren. No home address. No comm number. No job. No education. No family… but there’s a lot of picture of paintings here. I think I even recognize a few of them. That means that Tezo Axio is the painter we’re looking for! Tezo is the great, green twin wyrm!
Hmm… there’s more… look at the paintings. Do you see the change?
…about a year ago, about the same time the club bought all that paint, his motives changes. Suddenly he stopped painting still objects and started painting… surreal nude bodies?
Actually, I was referring to the pictures before that.
…are those murals? There’s several of them. Have he been painting walls?
I do believe we have found the reason why the club bought all that paint. They wanted their walls painted in a glorious rainbow of colors!
…if there’s a bunch of drug users in there, I think I can see the appeal.


>Considering the club's clientele and how much they want to keep what goes on in there secret, it's highly doubtful either of you would be able to bluff your way in.
You can’t probably bluff your way in, sure, but maybe you can convince someone to let you in? You know, a bit tit for tat or what they say?
>The place likely has a top quality security system, or at least quality guards and bouncers.
So let’s not get on their bad side, shall we?
>A stakeout might backfire. Yes, you know TGGTW goes there and likely paints there, but due to the establishment's reputation, I don't think anyone would want you seeing who its regulars are.
They probably won’t go out of their way to harass someone that stays outside the club. Besides, the whole point with a stakeout is not to be seen.
>There'll be a discreet back way in, if not a whole enclosed vehicle entrance.
…of course they’ll have a private garage or something that leads directly to the tram tunnels or something. Ergo, a stakeout might not even be possible.
>There's also the option to just go right up to the club's entrance and explain to the bouncer why you're there and to relay a message to the GGTW for you.
…well, you do have his real name, so getting a message to him wouldn’t be that hard. Hmm…

>What about the Marquis? If she can't get you an invite, she might know someone who could.
My sincerest apologies, my precious little amethyst, but I and those in my circle of friend prefer… establishment with a bit more class. Like a theater or ball.
Ah, sorry for wasting your time then.
Oh, but there was one more thing I must share with you, master Rishi. Your friend… the one that called himself… what was that charming name he gave me… Punk?
He called you? I just told him about the job you wanted to present him with. Was he interested?
Why, he was so excited when I told him the usual rate I pay my most precious models that I believe he missed out on most of the details. In fact, he gladly accepted the part when I mentioned the bonus, even before I was able to mention the possibility of him having to do some bare modeling.
Bare? You want him nude?
Of course! The body is the most beautiful thing we have, is it not? Though, I usually begin my sessions with them clothed and see where things go. Why, such a fine specimen like this Punk might even require a private session with only myself. It would be a shame to let such a beautiful emerald go unpainted and unexplored, would it not?
Sure… but I need to get back to finding this artist. I’ll keep you updated.
Ah, of course, of course. Then I will not waste any more of your time, my beautiful gemstone. Good luck and take care.
Thank you for your time as well, Isabella.
>And in the same vein, it's possible Lily's dad knows someone who's a member of the club, since he probably has connections with smuggling organizations.
Huh? Some kind of club? Yeah, dad would never tell me if he was part of something like that… and I’ve never heard of the place before either.
Then I’m so-
Wait, let me ask Kun real quick… … … …
…
… … …I’m back. See, Kun told me that Thule is a member of some club like that. He think it was “dreamweaver” or some such.
Great. Can I get his comm number so I can call him?
Sorry, but Thule is kind of busy right now. See, he never answers his comm when he’s painting. If you want to talk to him, you’ll need to come by in person. Of course, it might be hard to convince him to help you. He hates it when someone disturbs his free time, you know.
Then I might just come by soon. Thank you for your help, Lily.
S-sure, anytime… um… Rishi. Bye?

>>941012
Oh, very nice. We're already most of the way there. Let's go talk to Thule for completion's sake.
Oh, should we tell Leon about Haley's philosophical problems? Maybe he can help her more than you can.

>>941012
>Tezo Axio
Is there a picture of him on his social profile? Gotta see if he’s the same male Serpent that was in the photo with Drizu Axio.

.....huh, I wonder if they’re related and Tezo left the “family” part of his social profile blank so no one would know they’re related? Or maybe it’s just a coincidence that they both share the same last name?

>>941019
Do this.

Lily's bodyguard being both a member of Den of the Dreamweaver and a painter is both a interesting coincidence and lucky for your case. Gotta wonder who sponsored his club membership and what he partakes of and does when he's in there.

Inform Leon that you lucked out and Lily Skywatcher's bodyguard, Thule, is a member of the club. Might be able to get him to confirm the Serpens in the photo is the club's painter and the painter's name is Tezo Axio. Maybe even get a message to the painter for us. Though, we gotta speak to Thule in person, and we're gonna have to wait a bit 'till he's finished painting so he won't be super grumpy about interrupting his personal time. So, we can either head to Skywatcher manor and wait for Thule while sharing Lily's company or go somewhere else and wait, then go there. We got anyplace better to wait? Does Leon have anywhere he'd rather wait with you? 'Cause if he's got a better idea, you'd take him up on it.

Text Benjamin (Punk) that you just talked with Isabella and she mentioned that he took the modelling job so quick that she thinks he didn't hear most of the details of the agreement. Let him know that he agreed to possibly model in the nude, as well as possibly have a private session with only Isabella. Then he won't be going in and potentially get a unpleasant surprise.

Scrape a copy of Tezo Axio's social profile pages and save it as a precaution against him deleting it all. Then compare the paintings sent to the gallery with the ones on Tezo's social profile. Look for ones that match and check what date they arrived at the gallery and when the image was uploaded. Have they been sent to the gallery out of order, and if so by how much?

Before he painted the Tharoonian crystal pigment murals for the club, did he use that pigment type in his paintings or a common one? That'll tell if he could afford such rare pigments on his own or not.

And considering the more recent subject matter of the Wyrm's paintings and the noted lack of creativity of Serpens, how much you want to bet he's been painting actual people engaging in sexual acts?

Oh, and also do a general search for Tezo Axio's name on the station's Web, as well as a reverse image search for his paintings and how he appears in the photo with Drizu. Ah, and check if Drizu's social profile lists Tezo as a friend or associate.

>Geez, those things are growing all over the seafloor back home… are they really this dangerous to the Xenos?
And possibly dissolving Tharoonian crystal bits into the seas of Roon, making swimming in them hazardous for non-Serpens. When you have a moment, look up if non-Serpens visitors to Roon are warned not to swim in its oceans or come in contact with its seawater.

>Sorry, but Thule is kind of busy right now. See, he never answers his comm when he’s painting.

...What's Thule's full name?

Kaktus 2019/08/02(Fri)17:24 No. 941245 ID: 1301e8
File 156479187145.png - (88.63KB , 700x550 , 19.png )

>And possibly dissolving Tharoonian crystal bits into the seas of Roon, making swimming in them hazardous for non-Serpens.
Actually, it’s the opposite. The seas of Roon are considered one of the cleanest and uncontaminated among those that are located on such a heavily inhabited planet, mostly because we spend so many resources keeping it clean. You can only guess that the crystals either doesn’t break apart so easily or they simply become so diluted in the large mass of water that they have no effect. Either way, let’s drop the subject for now as this doesn’t have any connection to the case.
>Text Benjamin (Punk) that you just talked with Isabella and she mentioned that he took the modeling job so quick that she thinks he didn't hear most of the details of the agreement.
I’m getting creds for doing nothing. What more do I need to know?
That you might be asked to pose nude?
I guess that what the bonus was for. Who the fuck cares of a few wankers see my bum, at least not for that kind of creds, you hear?
And she mentioned the possibility of a private session?
You said she had a nice bod, right? No scales of my snout having some cute girl look me over, especially if I get paid for it.
Just wanted to make sure you knew what you were getting into.
Thanks, but I’m pretty sure I already know what I’m getting into, you hear? After all, I’m pretty sure she won’t ask me to do something weird like being her chair or something… thought that would be kind of hot. But anyway, need to get back to work. Smell you later.
Smell you later, Ben.

>Is there a picture of him on his social profile? Gotta see if he’s the same male Serpent that was in the photo with Drizu Axio.
The only thing on his profile is his name and pictures of his paintings. Nothing more.
>Huh, I wonder if they’re related and Tezo left the “family” part of his social profile blank so no one would know they’re related? Or maybe it’s just a coincidence that they both share the same last name?
Verily, serpents don’t usually care for family like that in the first place, usually caring more for the ones that raised and schooled us. But if their last names are the same and they were both born here, ergo the chances are very high that they at least share a broodmother. Now, if they want to keep this fact a secret or not… you cannot tell just yet.
>Before he painted the Tharoonian crystal pigment murals for the club, did he use that pigment type in his paintings or a common one? That'll tell if he could afford such rare pigments on his own or not.
Pretty much all the paintings he’s posted are made with the pigment, only a few that’s several years old are painted with normal paint. That means that he’s got a steady cash flow from… somewhere. Maybe Drizu is sponsoring him? That would explain why they are all gifted to him.
>And considering the more recent subject matter of the Wyrm's paintings and the noted lack of creativity of Serpens, how much you want to bet he's been painting actual people engaging in sexual acts?
… … …well, now we know what kind of “debauchery and depravity” is happening in there.

>Lily's bodyguard being both a member of Den of the Dreamweaver and a painter is both an interesting coincidence and lucky for your case.
Coincidence? You’ll just have to see about that.
>Gotta wonder who sponsored his club membership and what he partakes of and does when he's in there.
Lily’s father? That’s the only one you know with the possible connection that might want to bring him into the fold. But that’s just speculation for now.
>What's Thule's full name?
Let’s see… wait, is this right? Former name: Nebula Drifter TH13, Cargo class Goliath, Hircusle Robotics. Current name: Thule Nebula. Is Thule a SAI? You… you thought he was a Varkian with a few implants, not the other way around.
>Oh, very nice. We're already most of the way there. Let's go talk to Thule for completion's sake.
Better safe and sorry. After all, you’re in no rush as of yet.


>Inform Leon that you lucked out and Lily Skywatcher's bodyguard, Thule, is a member of the club.
Then what are we waiting for! Let’s head there right away! Glory awaits!
Actually, he’s currently busy. So yes, we can head there now, but then we’ll have to wait until he’s done. Verily, we don’t have anything else to do… unless you have any ideas?
If we have the time, we can always walk there? I know for a fact that the walking paths on this level are quite glorious and it’s not that far, is it?
About half an hour, I think? But sure…
Then it’s settled! Let us embark, brave knight Rishi! Oh! And while we’re at it, let’s exchange stories of honorable combat from our pasts!
…sure, why not.
Glorious!

The two of you starts heading towards the elevator closes to Lily’s mansion, all the while Leon talks about his supposed past deeds. He’s either exaggerating or making things up as he goes, because you’re pretty sure no one has been fighting pirates when they were barely a child nor traveled the stars to hunt down pirate lords. You’re not sure why he likes pirates so much… you’d think he’d talk about dragons, seeing that it would fit his knight theme better.

>Oh, should we tell Leon about Haley's philosophical problems? Maybe he can help her more than you can.
Hmm… yes, I know that feeling. The feeling of doubt, the question if you’re doing the right thing, the what if’s.
And how did you deal with it?
Have you played Q&Q?
…a little bit, yes? Why?
It’s like this. You’re either LAWFUL good, or you’re lawful GOOD. You have to choose which aspect of yourself you value more. Not only that, but you also have to realize that the world isn’t black and white, no matter how much we wish it would be. The world is a confusing mess of grays and greys, all smashed together. Even the best of us can never be certain what is right and what is wrong in the end most of the time. No, instead you need to trust yourself with your actions. You need to trust that you can do right, that you can learn from your mistakes if you did wrong and that you can change for the better. No one is perfect and no one can save everyone, but everyone can become better and maybe save a few more. Though, be careful that you don’t start simply seeing people as numbers, that saving two is more valuable than saving one and so on. As soon as you start to thinking about that objectively, you lose the reason why you’re doing it in the first place. To do good.
…and why do you do good?
Do you need a reason to do a good deed?
I guess not… but maybe you should tell Haley that yourself. She probably needs to hear it.
I’ll see if I can talk to Hal the next time he honors me with his presence. Don’t you worry.

You finally make your way to the mansion, where Kun is already waiting for you. He invites you inside and leads you down into the lower levels where apparently workers of the house reside. Apparently, Thule makes his home in a rather small room near the stairway up to the mansion proper. At least you think it’s his room, as it’s filled with all kind of knick knacks, paintings and painting supply and other things like that. There’s no bed though…

Can I be of assistance?

Leon becomes visible uneasy for a moment when he hears Thule talk. At first, you guess it’s the bodyguard’s monotone and robotic voice that’s unnerving him, but then as Leon is introducing himself to Thule, you notice something else as well. His beak doesn’t move correctly with his voice, which probably creates this uncanny effect to other Varkians.

>Might be able to get him to confirm the Serpens in the photo is the club's painter and the painter's name is Tezo Axio. Maybe even get a message to the painter for us.
Apologies, I know neither of these people.
But have you seen them before somewhere?
I have seen thin one at the club more than once before as a guest. I have also seen the wide one as well there. He might work there. The name Tezo has been said by the workers there concerning a third party that also is employed there.
So… you’ve seen both of them at the club… and Tezo might work there?
Affirmative.
Then can you get me into the club? It’s invite only and you’re a member, are you not?
That might be difficult.
Oh? Aren’t you an honored guest and can invite anyone you want?
My invitation might not be enough. They do not yet trust me as it has only been a year since my brothers and sisters invited me into the dream. We can make an attempt, but I do not promise it will work on my word alone. You might need to convince them further yourself.

>>941245
>>941246
Rishi, check to make sure you aren't seeing double.

Get closer to the painting, show interest.

>>941246
Glasses, a beak, lots of purple and pink... this painting... could it be an abstract representation of Lily? Very nice.
Oh, I recognize another one of those SAI-designed art pieces behind it.

Ask Thuule if it would help if you had another SAI recommend you. Perhaps someone from that church?

>>941245
>Thule is actually an SAI
You’ve gotta admit that his appearance looks much better than Saki‘s appearance: >>/questarch/911405 .

Of course, that could just be because Thule gets a better paycheck than Saki, which means Thule can actually afford to get a decent organic look, while Saki can’t.

>>941251
Do this.

>>941251
>could it be an abstract representation of Lily?
If the purple with three green spots are any indication, there's a little of Rishi in there as well. Also probably some of himself in the white & brown.

Ask him about the chest candy on the wall. Can you recognize the military branch or nationality?

I think if you dress appropriately (ironically in this case dressing more provocatively IE little black dress or spacebourne equivilant) and are hanging off Thule's arm, They probably won't hassle you too much as you enter. You can easily inform Tezo what's going on surreptitiously through Serpens telepathy. Also sorry Leon I don't think they'll let in a uniformed officer in any case.

Why are we trying to get into the club again? We where hired to find the painter and we found him, Tezo Axio. And while we don't have solid concrete proof that it is him this isn't a murder investigation just inform Isabella about what we found, about Drizu and Tezo Axio and ask her if we need to do anything more.
Hell she has enough influence that she could just call Drizu and he would probably take her call.

>>941277
Isabella can’t call someone if she doesn’t have their contact info.

Ask Thule in what ways he's observed members of the club successfully convince the staff to admit a guest and what ways have failed to convince them. You'll be able to figure out better ways to get into the club from that.

Show the murals and paintings from Tezo Axio's social profile to Thule and ask him if he's seen them in the Dreamweaver club. If he has then that'll more tightly connect Tezo to the club, especially the murals.

Also check if the painting that won the gallery contest is in Tezo's social profile. If it is, then you've got a good connection from it to... Tezo's social profile. Doesn't prove Tezo created it or someone else hasn't taken it over without his knowledge. Gotta talk with him directly and get him to connect himself to the paintings to be reasonably sure.

It's odd that Thule couldn't get a better quality face and voice so he wouldn't come off as uncanny, given he works for Mr. Skywatcher. Though, it might be that it's all top quality and he hasn't yet learned how to operate it all without it coming off as uncanny.

And it also makes you wonder if a SAI could pass as biological easier if they took a Serpens form, since there isn't that whole issue with mouths when speaking. Depends on whether the artificial telepathy systems are good enough or not to not give tells once the SAI has learned to speak like a common Serpens.

Also makes you wonder if a SAI could go "reverse cybernetic" to be as biological as possible by having a clone grown, then all but the autonomic portions of its brain removed and a AI core hooked in in its place. That sounds like something Serpens scientists would have already tried to do. Maybe do a cursory search for such a thing when you have some downtime.

>>941245
>abstract painting of the threesome in the limo
Classy.

Kaktus 2019/08/06(Tue)17:26 No. 941642 ID: 1301e8
File 156513759882.png - (105.94KB , 700x550 , 20.png )

>Why are we trying to get into the club again? We were hired to find the painter and we found him, Tezo Axio.
We were hired to not only find them, but to make sure they were able to contact or be contacted by our client. So far we only got the name of someone that might be the artist, but we’re not sure yet. For all we know Tezo might not even be the painter.
>You’ve gotta admit that his appearance looks much better than Saki‘s appearance.
Mostly because Thule clearly has money to spend on his appearance… and Saki seems really young as well, so he probably don’t know how organic are supposed to really look like.
>It's odd that Thule couldn't get a better quality face and voice so he wouldn't come off as uncanny, given he works for Mr. Skywatcher.
It’s possible that he wishes to be seen like this. Either that, or he simply don’t have the means to make it less uncanny.
>And it also makes you wonder if a SAI could pass as biological easier if they took a Serpens form, since there isn't that whole issue with mouths when speaking.
As long as they don’t talk to another Serpent it might work. The technology for mimicking the telepathy like that doesn’t exist, so it would be very weird for a Serpent to actually hear another one talk by using sounds. Verily, you still remember the first time you met a Xeno and heard them talk… it was like they were a TV and not a person at all.
>Also makes you wonder if a SAI could go "reverse cybernetic" to be as biological as possible by having a clone grown, then all but the autonomic portions of its brain removed and a AI core hooked in in its place.
If it was that easy there would be a ton of SAI organics walking around. Apparently a SAI mind works to different from an organic one that they can’t really function in a normal body, ergo why they generally change the shell of themselves and not the inside.


>Get closer to the painting, show interest.
That’s a nice painting you’re making. Let’s see… it’s something abstract?
This is an abstract representation of the dream I experienced last sleep cycle.
Hmm… A pair of glasses, a beak and a lot of purple and pink? Is there’s a little bit of Lily in there.
Affirmative.
Verily, I see myself in there too, with the three green spot and purple…
Affirmative.
...ergo, this painting is about yesterday, isn’t it? An abstract painting of our fun in the limo? Classy.
This painting does indeed classify as classy.

>Oh, I recognize another one of those SAI-designed art pieces behind it.
It is popular among my kind. It also functions as a small sized recharge station for quick naps.
>Ask him about the chest candy on the wall. Can you recognize the military branch or nationality?
I think I know where you’ve gotten these. They bear the mark of the Unity defense forces… and I think some of those are rewarded for orbital and interplanetary battles against enemies of the peace.
I have been part of several conflicts against pirate and raiders in defense of several smaller colonies and trade convoys.
So you were a marine in the space navy?
I was a close combat ship, or in some rare cases when ground combat was needed, a battle tank. I was stationed on a carrier ship, the Hyperion, which were patrolling the outer rim of unity space. It was the most logical choice, seeing as I already had experience beforehand, being a cargo ship before I awoke.
Oh… that’s kind of neat.
>Show the murals and paintings from Tezo Axio's social profile to Thule and ask him if he's seen them in the Dreamweaver club.
Those are indeed present inside the club in some of the corridors. There might also be a few in some private rooms I have not witness yet.

>Ask Thule in what ways he's observed members of the club successfully convince the staff to admit a guest and what ways have failed to convince them.
Bribe. Bribes always work.
I don’t think I have the money for that.
It’s also very dishonorable and a brave knight like Rishi would never stoop that low!
There are other objects of affection that can be of interests to the current guard. Power, connections, specific items. I am certain you can come up with something they might desire.
Verily, I’ve got even less power and connections than money.
Still very cowardly and dishonorable!
>I think if you dress appropriately and are hanging off Thule's arm, They probably won't hassle you too much as you enter.
Dressing appropriately will help greatly, affirmative.
Hmm… I did find one of my old dresses in a box yesterday… a black one…
Hanging off my arm might not help, as most people go there to find companionship, not the other way around. It won’t hurt our chances, so it might be prudent to engage in the act even if it doesn’t help.
>Ask Thuule if it would help if you had another SAI recommend you. Perhaps someone from that church?
There are a few members and they are currently friendly towards you after what you did to one of us. I will try to contact them, but it might take a bit of time. Please stand by.

>Sorry Leon I don't think they'll let in a uniformed officer in any case.
Hey, don’t worry. I didn’t want to go into that place anyway. As brave as I am, I rather not venture into the dragons den without a very good reason to do so. But do not fret, oh honorable knight, I will still be ever vigilante and stand ready just outside! If there would be any trouble, just beckon for me and I will come charging in to be at your side! Never fear, as I, a courageous knight of the ord-
Is your voice box malfunctioning? It seems to spew out corrupted and irrelevant data.
Eh? What? Hey! My speech isn’t irrelevant! Bah, you know what I meant, Richi. Just give me a call if something would happen, alright?
Of course, Leon.
Then good luck in there! I’ll be nearby, ready to act.


After a quick stop back home to change, the two of you make your way towards the club, slithering arm in arm… or walking, in Thule’s case.
So you’re a dangerous man, Thule… or in this case, robot?
In the time it takes for the thought of that question to form in your brain, I have already simulated ten thousands way to eliminate you non-lethally and if I cared for it, already executed on one of them.
…remind me to never get on your bad side.
On that subject, I will remind you that I will be very cross if you spoke of anything that you will see in that club with someone else.
Don’t you worry, my mind is sealed.
Good to hear. Changing subject, we are here.

Kaktus 2019/08/06(Tue)17:26 No. 941643 ID: 1301e8
File 156513761438.png - (81.04KB , 700x550 , 21.png )

Eh? Who the fuck are you?

Right outside the club there’s a female Hiver waiting for you, whom you assume is a bouncer.

I am Thule, a member-
I know who you are, dork, you’re on the list. I’m talking about big tits on your arm.
This a friend I would want to bring with me.
The tides brings you salutations, friend. I am Rishi Zsazsa.
You know the fucking rules. No non-members. Especially someone that’s new to the station. Especially especially one that’s apparently a freaking private detective.
I wish to invite her to become a member.
Fuck no. You’re way to new to do that. You’re not getting in with her, so get lost.

I am certain that there is something we can do to change your mind?
Unless you can magically end this boring ass dead shift of mine or at least make it more interesting, then no, there is not.
If you need additional members to confirm that she is here for legitimate reasons, I can get in contact with them.
More of your robot buddies I wager? If that’s the case, she might enter so long that she never leaves those private rooms you’re always in. If we find her outside we will keep you responsible.
Ma’am, I’m actually looking for a friend in there. A Tezo Axio? I believe he works here?
I cannot tell you anything about any clientele or employees we might or might not have here.
Are you sure there’s nothing we can do for you to change your mind?
Ugh, fine… you got a pair of fine tits so how about this. Got a friend who had to cancel in the last minute and now we need someone to take her place as a plate.
A plate?
Yes, a plate. As in, something you put food on. We need someone in half an hour to be carried off as a plate. We might just let you stay a few minutes after you’re done if you do a good job.
That’s… interesting?
Now, either go stay with your robot friend or do that job. Otherwise, get lost. Ugh, why do I always get these people? I’m way to pretty to be just standing around here all alone being bored… I need to find a better job…

Hmm… are there any other options available?

>>941643
A pretty hiver such as yourself, I'm sure we can find some other way to make your night more interesting. The question is how to get away with it?

>>941642
>Bribe. Bribes always work.
>I don’t think I have the money for that.
You fucking liar! You said you had plenty of money after doing that job for Lily! Especially with the bonus money she gave you!

>>941643
> one that’s apparently a freaking private detective.
Hey, look at that! People are already starting to recognize who you are! Apparently you've got a reputation! Ask how she knows about you?

>Be a plate or stay with Thule.
It all depends on how ticklish Rishi is. If the plate starts twitching and giggling from people taking food off of her, then she ain't gonna be appreciated.

I guess you can do that job, but only if she tells Tezo Axio, who may or may not be here, that you wish to deliver a message to him.

Maybe we can get him to come to you?

Hit on the hiver. See if you can’t help make her day more interesting

Read her(?(I know hiver chicks are bigger than guys but have context)) ID, address her by name.

Just give 'em like a couple hundred bucks and tell 'em to treat the wife, or someone else's wife. Honestly, she wouldn't be bemoaning his job unless he expected kickbacks.
>I’m way to pretty to be just standing around here all alone being bored… I need to find a better job…
Too bad we already pitched Punk for that modeling job. Eh, the Marquis said they wanted something more natural anyway, if widened hips were too much, cyborg eyes and limbs are right out. Though, you can promise to keep an ear out for them, you know, owe them a favor. The Marquis may have a sudden change in artistic focus, and already has some pieces about cyborgs on display she might like to see modeled again.

If all else fails, call in that favor from your AI buddies and hope you bump into your target in the hall, or, stay in those private rooms while Thule looks around. Try to avoid the indignity of working as a plate- you've already seen your reputation travel fast, and you should hope it's the right reputation. Especially in front of potentially important people.

>>941643
Try hitting on her. She did tell us if we could make her shift more interesting, she’d let us in.

>>941649
>You fucking liar! You said you had plenty of money after doing that job for Lily! Especially with the bonus money she gave you!
True, but that’s more of a last resort thing. Let’s not go throwing away our hard earned money!

>do the plate job
Please, no. That is the last thing we want to do!

>>941682
>Read her(?(I know hiver chicks are bigger than guys but have context)) ID, address her by name.
Rishi clearly calls the Hiver a female. What more context do you need?

Say you overheard her wanting to find a better job and tell her that you know of one that'd fit her good looks way better than this bouncer job. Tell her that the Sunstrider Gallery is looking to hire painting models and they're paid well, if they're what the gallery is looking for.

Is there any reason you couldn't do the plate job then go join Thule with his SAI group in the private rooms? And how long would you have to act as a plate? Because if you could join Thule's group after the job and it won't take, like, hours of laying still, then do the plate job. If you do good, you'll get two chances to get to Tezo. Just don't do so bad at the job they throw you out.

Otherwise, if you can't do the job then stay with Thule, go with Thule instead. You can interview the other SAIs about Tezo and Thule can scope out the rest of the club for you. Maybe he or one of the other SAIs there could even get Tezo to come back to their private rooms so you could speak with him.

>>941649
>You fucking liar! You said you had plenty of money after doing that job for Lily! Especially with the bonus money she gave you!
Rishi's not gonna spend her own money on a case unless she's reasonably certain she'll be reimbursed by the client or there's a real good personal reason for her to use her own cash. If there's bribes to be paid, they should be paid outta the client's pocket, either by asking 'em to cover unexpected "expenses" or on the final bill (obfusticated as "expenses.")

>Hey, look at that! People are already starting to recognize who you are! Apparently you've got a reputation! Ask how she knows about you?
It's highly unlikely that Rishi has gained enough notoriety for this bouncer to know about her. It's much more likely that the club collects info on potentially risky people to allow entry (like cops and P.I.s) and Rishi was in their database; They likely got her photo and details from the station's P.I. registration database. So when the bouncer ran Rishi through a facial recognition scan, she popped as possibly trouble.

>>941696
>facial recognition to identify Rishi
Or Drizu Axio told the club that we were asking about The Great Green Twin Wyrms. We know Drizu Axio is associated with the club in some way and we did leave our business card with his secretary, so I wouldn’t be surprised if Drizu Axio told the club to look out for Rishi.

>>941643
>entering as a food serving plate
So they aren't sure that you're trustworthy and are giving you a chance to earn it by "working" as living furniture. Is this going to involve being tied down during the job so we don't try anything suspicious? Because if so, I'd say it's a pretty good option.

Plus, you'll get a chance to taste solid foods that aliens like to eat. We can't eat them all through our skin, of course, but there will be crumbs and condiments that we can sample once the others are done eating.

>other options
If she's bored with her job, then we could keep her company for a while. Maybe we shouldn't do it right now, since we're kind of on the clock ourselves, but we could offer to show her a good time once her shift ends. Would she like that?

What else could make her shift less boring? She might appreciate hearing some interesting stories from Leon; he's been strongly opposed to dealing with criminals or bribing anyone, but he might feel differently about telling someone of his heroic (or not-so-heroic) deeds.

Have you got any audio or video files she could borrow?

As bored as she is, I don't think she'd be down for anything that involves leaving her post without finding a substitute, and I don't know where we'd get one on such short notice. An offer for a better job would go over well, but I'm not sure where we could direct her; the junkyard has been having problems with theft, but she'd likely consider that a step down, unless the relative lack of boredom is significant enough.

>>941682
I don't actually think 'willing to get into potentially embarrassing situations to find the info' is that bad a reputation for a private dick, especially when this can be one of those cool, slightly risque detective stories later.

As long as Rishi can keep still, and presumably keep it in her pants, the plate thing is a good choice.
Make it clear that your advances on the pretty insect are not intended as a bribe but as a public service.

Kaktus 2019/08/15(Thu)14:57 No. 942688 ID: 1301e8
File 156590625175.png - (99.56KB , 700x550 , 22.png )

>You fucking liar! You said you had plenty of money after doing that job for Lily! Especially with the bonus money she gave you!
You have some cash, sure, but you can’t go around spending more money than you actually earn on a case, can you? Usually, if something like that is needed, you’ll convince your employer to pay for the extra expense, but you don’t think the current situation warrants something like that.
>Hey, look at that! People are already starting to recognize who you are! Apparently you've got a reputation!
You gave her your name, ergo she probably just looked you up on her comm-module.
>She might appreciate hearing some interesting stories from Leon.
Verily, she might just become even more bored if subjected to Leon’s tall tales. Say what you will about him, but he does love to hear himself talk.

>It all depends on how ticklish Rishi is. If the plate starts twitching and giggling from people taking food off of her, then she ain't gonna be appreciated.
You’re not that ticklish… and besides, you’re probably going to lie on your back, ergo it won’t be a problem.
>As long as Rishi can keep still, and presumably keep it in her pants, the plate thing is a good choice.
Verily, your augmentations where created for something like this, what with the complete control over everything below.
>Try to avoid the indignity of working as a plate- you've already seen your reputation travel fast, and you should hope it's the right reputation.
No one in there will probably recognize you or even remember you, and this lady seems to want to keep it on the down low.
>Eh, the Marquis said they wanted something more natural anyway, if widened hips were too much, cyborg eyes and limbs are right out.
You’re sure the Marquis is looking for more pieces of art than just the one she prefers, so it can’t hurt to ask. Besides, she does have this really neat half machine, half organic thing going on. You can’t help but wonder if her whole body is half cybernetics or… hmm…


>If all else fails, call in that favor from your AI buddies and hope you bump into your target in the hall, or, stay in those private rooms while Thule looks around.
Thule, send a message to those AI buddies of yours and see if they can get me an invite, just in case.
Affirmative.
>Read her ID, address her by name.
Well then, Ms... K… Kch… um…
K’tch’kkw’qk. But call me Kat.
>Ask how she knows about you?
You gave me your name, duh. Not hard to look up whom you are from that.
>So they aren't sure that you're trustworthy and are giving you a chance to earn it by "working" as living furniture.
I’m asking you for a personal favor. You scratch my exoskeleton and I scratch yours, which is to say I’ll let you inside for a while.
>Is this going to involve being tied down during the job so we don't try anything suspicious?
Tied down? No, but you’re going in deaf… or in your case, without that telepathy thing of yours. I’m not sure they do it but I think it’s some kind of necklace or-
A mind dampening necklace, yes. I had one of those before.
>And how long would you have to act as a plate?
Until they are done eating? They got you for an hour max, so no more than that.
>Is there any reason you couldn't do the plate job then go join Thule with his SAI group in the private rooms?
Eh, sure, whatever, just don’t go around wandering on your own. It’s on me if they find you in there trying to find out who’s a member or something fucking stupid like that.
I promise I won’t make a scene.
Good. Because if you fucking do, I’ll eat that head of yours.
…I’m pretty sure you guys don’t… do that?
*Threatening mandible clicks*
*Threatening knuckle crack*
Hey, I’m the one trying to be though here!

>Say you overheard her wanting to find a better job and tell her that you know of one that'd fit her good looks way better than this bouncer job. Tell her that the Sunstrider Gallery is looking to hire painting models and they're paid well, if they're what the gallery is looking for.
A model? Me? Bah, I know I’m fucking beautiful, but not like that.
It’s an art gallery, not a beauty contest. Verily, I’m sure they are looking for interesting forms and not just the most beautiful one, ergo the fascinating way your cybernetics are interwoven with half your body would be of interest to them. Though, I can’t say if your whole body is like that or not…
My scanners confirm roughly 45% of the subjects body is cybernetic in nature.
Really? My cybernetics? You think that will be enough?
Can’t hurt to ask? I know the owner personally so I can put in a good word.
Eh… why the fuck not, I guess? It can’t be worse than this trite.

>A pretty hiver such as yourself, I'm sure we can find some other way to make your night more interesting. The question is how to get away with it?
We don’t.
Now, now, I’m sure such a tall, clever and drop dead gorgeous lady like yourself would have no trouble finding a way to-
While I do admit that I’m the most fucking gorgeous, the cleverest and the tallest Hiver around, you’re screeching up the wrong mushroom, big hips.
Your preference is male?
My freaking preference is cute, weak boys and not dumb, big muscled fridge cosplayers like yourself.
I am not sure I understand why you mentioned a fridge?
Well, then you’re in luck, because I got this cute lad on a short leach that would probably love to meet with you. Though, I’ll need to ask him first about it, but I’m sure he’ll agree.
…are you trying to bribe me with a… hooker?
It’s nothing like that. I’m simply intended it to be more of a… public service. Verily, I simply wanted to see a pretty insect like yourself get fucked silly or fuck my boytoy silly, ergo it’s not a bribe.
…I… did you just… ugh, no matter, I’m on duty, so just forget about it.
So am I, so I was actually considering doing it post hoc? Maybe at a later date even?
…seriously? Did you just ask me out on a… threesome? In public?
Yes.
…whit a guy I haven’t even seen?
I got a photo of him right here.
…he’s kind of cute, though I’m not sure about that ring… but yeah, I don’t really agree to do anything with some stranger I just met like this in the-
He loves getting dominated by stronger women.
… … …fuck it, fine, whatever. Just stop bothering me about it out in the open like this. Just take my number and call me later.
Then it’s a date!

>Only if she tells Tezo Axio, who may or may not be here, that you wish to deliver a message to him.
Ugh, fine. I’ll tell someone that you’re looking for this Axio chap. No idea if he’s even here or who he is, but I’ll see what I can do.
Then I’m ready to be a… plate?
Just go into the employee entrance over there and say I sent yah to the Cibic in there. They’ll take care of the rest.
I’ll just go join my friend until you are done, Rishi. May I enter?
Sure, sure, whatever.

Kaktus 2019/08/15(Thu)14:57 No. 942689 ID: 1301e8
File 156590626296.png - (161.78KB , 700x550 , 23.png )

They waste no time getting your clothes off and covering you in all kind of food stuff, as they seem to be in quite the hurry. You can even overhear some of the people placing food on complaining that you were late and that you were supposed to be female, though they keep referring to you with the name Siklia. In fact, only the Cibic that Kat apparently talked with seem to know you’re completely new to this and they give you some pointers, which mostly boils down to lie still, shut up and not let them get to handsy with you. Ergo, you can only conclude that they were expecting Kat’s friend and don’t know you’re taking her place.

As they finish making a spread upon your body consistent of Hiver sea food and… you’re not sure what the other stuff is, but you digress, the Cibic comes up to you with a mind damper necklace in their hands and ask you if you’re ready. In your current, food covered state you can’t do anything but nod and brace yourself for what is to come. Your mind is thrown into a thick mist, clouding your perception of the world around you, ensuring that you can’t reach out with your mind to speak and be spoken to by others.

You’re carried to a room with four Xeno’s, both male and female of several species. You hear them talk and cheer, but everything they say is spoken in an alien language you cannot hope to understand. Without your telepathy, the sounds they make are simply grotesque noises made by feral animals and nothing more. You can see some of them pointing at you, or to be more précises, to the food on you, already planning on what they’ll grab first. One of them even drags their hand across your hip before giving your bum a pinch when she doesn’t think anyone is watching.

Kaktus 2019/08/15(Thu)14:57 No. 942690 ID: 1301e8
File 156590627204.png - (34.78KB , 700x550 , 24.png )

…and before the dinner can even start, you spot another club employee filming the whole thing. An overweight male Serpents… whose name is Tezo Axio, if you’re reading his name tag correctly. And here you are, deaf, mute and unable to move without causing a scene. Verily, this just your usual luck…

>>942690
You can still use your comms. I wonder if Thule can tell Tezo you'd like to meet him afterwards? He's free to move throughout the building, isn't he?
Try sending Thule a message.

how against would you be about just stealing the camera later so it doesn't get out?

>>942690
You said the necklace only affects your telepathy. So it’s a good thing you’ve still got another method of communication! You’ve still got your comms!

>>942693
Try this.

Don't talk like your luck is bad here. This is much more like your luck was alright but not better. Just laying here you confirmed Tezo Axio is in the club and a member of the wait staff. ...Or possibly someone higher up posing as a member of the wait staff, since you'd think both staff and members wouldn't be allowed to record what goes on in the club. Well, whatever the reason he can get away with that, it looks like you're probably gonna be the subject of one of Tezo's future paintings.

Now, just play your part, don't screw up and you'll be able to join Thule once you're done here and work to get Tezo into the SAIs' private rooms to speak with him. Meanwhile you can pass the time playing solitaire on your comm implant or listening to a audiobook or something. Oh, or calling Ben to ask him if he'd be up to a threesome with a domineering Hiver female and you sometime later.

You can try to call or text Thule to inform him that you spotted Tezo Axio here wearing a waiter's outfit and taking photos, then ask if that's against club rules. Though, don't be surprised if your comms don't work since the club rooms are likely comm shielded.

If the club put a mind dampening necklace on you to keep you from listening in on the club members conversations, that seems rather ineffectual considering you have a comm implant that can record external audio; It can do that, right? Pipe the audio through a voice-to-text converter or translation app and you'll be able to understand what they're saying. Though, it won't work for Serpens unless your comm implant can pick up external telepathic transmissions.

>>942693
>I wonder if Thule can tell Tezo you'd like to meet him afterwards? He's free to move throughout the building, isn't he?
I was under the impression that the Thule hadn't been here long enough for the club to allow him to move about outside the SAIs' private rooms. But even if he could move about the general areas of the club, I think Rishi is in a private room, thus Thule wouldn't be allowed in here. Though, if Tezo leaves this room, then Thule could ask Tezo to speak with you in the SAIs' private rooms later.

>>942690
He's probably here to have a look at the person that was asking for him, just to see if he needs to be worried or not. Taking pictures is just a bonus for him.

You could try winking at him.

Kaktus 2019/08/19(Mon)16:21 No. 943061 ID: 1301e8
File 156625691604.png - (40.61KB , 700x550 , 25.png )

>Don't talk like your luck is bad here. This is much more like your luck was alright but not better. Just laying here you confirmed Tezo Axio is in the club and a member of the wait staff.
Unlucky or not, it still feels annoying to have him right there exactly when you can’t talk to him. Though having confirmed that he works here is something at least.
>You'd think both staff and members wouldn't be allowed to record what goes on in the club.
Going by the fact that the guests are posing for him and seemingly directing where he’s filming, you can only come to the conclusion that they actually asked him to be here. Ergo, his job is probably to actually record people at the club.
>He's probably here to have a look at the person that was asking for him, just to see if he needs to be worried or not. Taking pictures is just a bonus for him.
He’s barely noticed that you’re here, so that seems unlikely. Verily, you’re more of an object right now anyway, to be placed in the background of a photo.
>How against would you be about just stealing the camera later so it doesn't get out?
You’re sure this is only for private use for these four individuals… and you’re sure you can get them to blur your face if you ask them too…

>Now, just play your part, don't screw up and you'll be able to join Thule once you're done here and work to get Tezo into the SAIs' private rooms to speak with him.
Even if your main objective is right there, you can’t let yourself lose focus on here and now. Verily, laying still is actually harder than it sounds… especially when one of the ladies keep “accidently” stroking your sides… and one of the guys keep pinching you with those weird eating utilizes they got when he grabs the food. Why can’t they just use a fork instead of those wooden sticks? Luckily, the last two are either too focused on the food itself or posing for Tezu to be of any trouble to you.
>You said the necklace only affects your telepathy. So it’s a good thing you’ve still got another method of communication! You’ve still got your comms!
Indeed, you still got your comms. What you lack is the number to contact Tezu himself, as his social profile lacked one. Maybe you can contact someone else?
>You have a comm implant that can record external audio; It can do that, right?
Normally, yes, but they made sure to disable those functions while they were prepping you to become a plate. Verily, you might be able to just activate them again yourself, but you don’t think they’ll appreciate that when you’re done here.

>I wonder if Thule can tell Tezo you'd like to meet him afterwards? He's free to move throughout the building, isn't he? Call him and ask.
You wish for me to converse to Tezu? It’s possible I can find you, as long as I can get to you by going through any of the general areas in this establishment. What is your current location?
A private room somewhere on the ground floor. Sadly, I wasn’t able to catch any kind of number or name on this room, if they even have one. Verily, unless you know where they serve food like this, I don’t think you’ll be able to find me.
Then I’ll await further instructions.
>or calling Ben to ask him if he'd be up to a threesome with a domineering Hiver female and you sometime later.
… … …apparently, they don’t allow you to contact anyone outside the club. Crud.

>You could try winking at him.
As soon as you see that his attention is centered on you, you wink at him in the most obvious way you can. It doesn’t go unnoticed as he gets closer and continues filming you. Verily, he probably believes that you’re putting on a bit of a show for the camera. Now that he’s focused on you, you start to twist and turn your head around as if you’re trying to get his attention even more… which seem to work… to a certain extent. He lowers the camera and stares at you in confusion, but you at least have his attention now. Of course, now you just need to figure out a way to tell him you want to talk to him later without moving your body, talking or disturbing any of the food that’s still on you… or the guests, for that matter.

>>943061
"Cameraman" huh?
...can you move the very end of your tail without disturbing anything/anyone? Maybe you can get him to come over and initiate contact to get past the collar.

>>943061
>Nametag
What is that red writing under the word "Cameraman"? If you can get him to come closer, you might be able to read it.

You might be able to get him to come closer if you slowly make the "come over here" gesture with your hand. And I say slowly because you don't want to wiggle around too much and knock some food off of yourself.

Does he need to be physically touching you in order to bypass the necklace so that you can talk to him?

>Why can’t they just use a fork instead of those wooden sticks?
Rishi, ask yourself this: "Do I want to be accidentally stabbed by a fork or do I want to accidentally be pinched by these wooden sticks?"

Once you come to the obvious correct answer, you'll realize that there's a reason they don't have forks! It's harmful to the person that's currently being the plate! Plus, there's always the chance that blood could be drawn and that would ruin the food.

Is there a universal Serpens gesture for 'mind-meld me'?

>>943061
Tail motion for "get over here" could work, long as there's not food on it.

>>943061
Good, we've got his attention. The next step is to communicate with him using only our eyes to tell him how to contact us.

I know! We can tell him our comm number by winking in base-8! You've got three eyes facing him, meaning you can form a total of eight different gestures by opening and closing them in specific combinations. That's enough to form the basis of a language.

If your number doesn't easily translate to base-8, then is there some other simple code you could use, like Morse code? We only need to convey a simple message, just enough to tell him your name and say "call me". Perhaps you could use a Serpens mythological reference, or allude to something you saw in one of his paintings, something that would be inconspicuous to anyone else nearby while still telling him what we need him to know.

The important thing right now is to move as little as possible. We don't want to mess up anyone's dining experience. Acting as living furniture might not be our usual profession, but it's a job we took and we're going to be professional about it.

Oh, if you do get him to mind-meld please first make it clear that you mean no harm and will respect his privacy no matter what.

>>943061
If you’re able to communicate with him, then don’t give him the entire message from Isabella right now. You have to make sure whatever you tell him is a short message, since he’s supposed to be working right now.

Ask Thule what room he’s in, since it’s gotta have a name or room number. Then if you can get Tezo to talk to you, ask him to meet you in the room that Thule is in, once you know the name or number of the room.

If you successfully get Tezo to meet you, then just in case he has the same reaction that Drizu Axio had, don’t call him The Great Green Twin Wyrm until the very end of delivering Isabella‘s message. That way if he does have the same reaction as Drizu, you’ll have delivered the entire message successfully before he slithers away and tells you to leave him alone.

Kaktus 2019/08/22(Thu)13:24 No. 943331 ID: 1301e8
File 156650544574.png - (32.39KB , 700x550 , 26.png )

>Rishi, ask yourself this: "Do I want to be accidentally stabbed by a fork or do I want to accidentally be pinched by these wooden sticks?"
Good point, those points are far worse. Those wooden sticks might actually be on to something.
>The important thing right now is to move as little as possible. We don't want to mess up anyone's dining experience.
Verily, messing things up now will probably ruin your chances to talk to Tezo. Ergo, you must be the best plate that ever plated!
>"Cameraman" huh?
That would explain why he’s allowed to film these people.
>What is that red writing under the word "Cameraman"?
“Dreamweaver”. So he’s part of the club.

>Ask Thule what room he’s in, since it’s gotta have a name or room number.
N34-ktz-N340. Third floor, main bu-ktz-main building. Just follow the danc-ktz-just follow the signs.


>I know! We can tell him our comm number by winking in base-8! You've got three eyes facing him, meaning you can form a total of eight different gestures by opening and closing them in specific combinations.
While it would be possible for you to send him a simple message, like your comm information, by using base-8, it’s also all to possible that he won’t understand any message you try to send him, seeing as he’ll have no idea what each combination represents and would probably just think that you’re mad. Ergo, there has to be a simpler solution with higher rate of success than speaking in base-8.
>If your number doesn't easily translate to base-8, then is there some other simple code you could use, like Morse code?
You start to blink at him in Morse and he looks at you confused.

Then before you can do anything else he’s pulled away by one of the patrons and is forced to return to his duties for now.

>Does he need to be physically touching you in order to bypass the necklace so that you can talk to him?
It might be possible, but you’re not sure. Your experiences with these necklaces are lacking.
>Is there a universal Serpens gesture for 'mind-meld me'?
Not one that you can do in decent company. Also, mind-melding is far from convert, so you’ll probably stick to just talking to him for now.

You watch as Tezo takes one last group photo of the group with you visible in the background before you see them beckon for him to leave. Tezo on his parts holds up his finger as if to ask for just one more minute and look over at you.

>Tail motion for "get over here" could work, long as there's not food on it.
With your tail free, you managed to make a simple motion of “come closer” to him and he abides. He slithers right up to your tail and grabs in.

Hey there you alright or do you need anything are they treating you alright theyaren’ttohandsyarethey?
Err… they are fine… well, expect for the Sakkilian lady, she keep pinching me. But th-
I’ll talk to her real quick but hey can you do me a quick favor can you maybe do a V-sign or something and wink for this last photo soitlookslikeyou’rehavingagoodtimeaswellandstuff?
…sure? But I ne-
Great good talk bye.
Wa-

He let’s go of your tail and sever the mental connection the two of you had, but reacting quickly, you manages to grab his hand with your tail tip before he gets away.
Huh!? What a-
I got a message for you! Just listen for a second.

>If you’re able to communicate with him, then don’t give him the entire message from Isabella right now.
The Sunstrider gallery of grounded and local art wishes to give you a prize fo-
Prize for what is this some kind of scam or i-
For one of your paintings. The marq-
But I haven’t sent any paintings anywhere I still got themormyhusbandgotwhy do they have my paintings!?
…because you’ve been sending them there for years?
No I haven’t I haven’t sent a painting anywhere ever!
>Then if you can get Tezo to talk to you, ask him to meet you in the room that Thule is in, once you know the name or number of the room.
Okay, there might be some confusion here. How about after I’m done here, we can meet in room N340 i-
What no I’m not going anywhere with some painting thief you would be glad I don’t call security and have you thrown out!
Wait, but I haven’t-
Now let go of me so I can take this last photo and leave and I’ll tell that lady to stop pinching you if you justletgoofmealready!

He is trying to free himself from your tail without causing a scene, as the other patrons have still not noticed that anything is off. You better act now.

Tell him if his paintings are stolen you can help him recover them, so long as he can confirm that they're his. Does he sign them?
Can't he sense your emotions, tell that you're being honest and mean no harm?

>>943331
"Hey, I didn't steal any paintings. I was hired to find whoever created the paintings my client possesses. If they are yours, and it turns out she has stolen them, I can assure you I will assist in their recovery; however, this can only be cleared up if you agree to meet me later, be it at my office or somewhere else in a far less awkward position. That work for you?"

>>943331
Give him Isabella‘s contact number and your contact number.

Tell him that if his paintings are being stolen, then he needs to contact Isabella and tell her. You’ll even go with him if he wants to tell her in person!

And if he changes his mind on wanting to talk to you, he can either meet you in the room Thule is in or, if you’re not there, he can call you.

Then tell him to he can take your picture now, let him go, and do a V-sign and wink for him.

What about the one for Drizu? The one of the flowers? Or the one next to the portrait of you and him in the Sol Corp building?

>>943331
Could it be that he has been the one painting but not the one turning them in? Maybe his brother/friend has been doing it behind his back all this time.
If his friend/brother was close to him and found his art good but he himself thought that it wasn’t he could have handed them to the gallery without their knowledge to get his art recognised thus proving his point that the art was good to him.

You're gonna have to talk fast so he can't cut you off. Tell him you're a P.I., Rishi Zsazsa, hired by the Sunstrider Gallery's owner, Isabella, to find the artist Great Green Twin Wyrm, him, and get him in contact with her. Tell him Isabella's comm number and ask him to please just call her. Tell her he's the Great Green Twin Wyrm and him and her can sort out this business with his paintings. Then tell him your comm number and to call you if he wants to know any more.

>themormyhusbandgotwhy
>husband
He's married? Well, that's a real un-Serpens thing, isn't it? And it's rather likely that Drizu is Axio's husband, going by what you've seen so far. ...And going by the way Axio doesn't know the paintings are gone and that Drizu got all aggressive when he found out who you were looking for, Drizu is either involved in the paintings getting to the gallery or is hiding that the paintings are gone from Axio.

Also, since there's no outside comms in the club, that'd explain why Drizu didn't get in contact with Axio the second you left Drizu's office.

I don't see much reason to hide the act of donating paintings to a museum. Not unless there's something else being smuggled in with the paintings that the curator doesn't know about.
It's more likely that Tezo is making up excuses to decline- I mean, saying the paintings aren't supposed to be in the museum is one thing, but accusing the messenger of being the thief is another. It's frankly a ridiculous accusation; why would a painting thief track down the owner and invite them to the museum they DONATED the paintings to?

>>943331
Well, attempting to hold an extended conversation in the middle of your respective jobs turned out awkward. That's why we said not to try and give him the whole message right now. It sounds like he's kind of in a hurry, so we should keep our current meeting as brief as we reasonably can.

Sure, we'll wink for a photo if Tezo agrees to talk later so we can explain things properly. It sounds like something suspicious is going on and we want to help him get to the bottom of it. Sharing comm numbers should be enough.

Or if he doesn't want to talk about it over the comm system for some reason, he could give us a room number where he'd be comfortable meeting with us later. If he thinks we're suspicious, would he be more comfortable if we were tied down while we were talking so we couldn't try to attack him or anything?

If we have the time, we might want to assure him that we don't mean any harm and were simply having a difficult time getting into contact with him.

>>943331
"I was just hired to find you and deliver a message to you, which I have. If you believe your artwork has been stolen, then contact my employer at this number" *give him Isabella's number* "to tell her."

"If that's not enough to satisfy you, you can call me at this number" *give him Rishi's number* "and I'll help you find the art thief."

Then let him go and pose for the camera, without knocking any of the food off of you. Afterwards, go join Thule and hang out with him for a little bit. If Tezo wants to talk to you, he can have someone from security bring you to him or he can have someone in the security room follow you on the cameras and then he'll come to the room you're in.

Kaktus 2020/01/12(Sun)12:32 No. 953285 ID: 1301e8
File 157886112441.png - (111.80KB , 700x550 , 27.png )

>You're gonna have to talk fast so he can't cut you off.
He’s already talking way faster than you can ever hope to do, but you’ll try your best to get a full sentence out at least.
>Can't he sense your emotions, tell that you're being honest and mean no harm?
Even at best of times, just touching someone to get their emotions is rather unreliable. Right now your emotions are a bit of a mess and the contact between the two of you aren’t great, so he’s probably not getting any kind of reading on you that he can trust.

>It's frankly a ridiculous accusation; why would a painting thief track down the owner and invite them to the museum they DONATED the paintings to?
Eh? But… see… you…
And why would a thief even donate the paintings?
…alright fine you’renotthethiefbut I’m still not going to your scam museum!
>Sure, we'll wink for a photo if Tezo agrees to talk later so we can explain things properly. It sounds like something suspicious is going on and we want to help him get to the bottom of it.
Just do your job so wecangetoutofherenadI’lltalk whatever.
>He can either meet you in the room Thule is in or, if you’re not there, he can call you.
Give me their room number and I’ll meet you do there as soon as I can find the time but I’msureitwillbeawasteoftimebut if you insist…

>Do a V-sign and wink for him.
You strike your pose for the camera, though with you still having some food on you you’re stuck with doing a V-sign and a wink, but the clientele seems to appreciate it nonetheless, what with them doing their own V-signs behind you.

It doesn’t take long after Tezo leaves for the last of the food to disappear and your job to be done, but even as the other employees are carrying you out from the room the lady that can’t keep her hands to herself “accidently” strokes your chest and whispers what you think is a room number into your ear. She’s getting a bit annoying…

It takes a while for you to clean of any leftover food and to dress yourself again, so you can only hope that Tezo haven’t already been by Thule’s room and already left.

Kaktus 2020/01/12(Sun)12:32 No. 953286 ID: 1301e8
File 157886113385.png - (95.09KB , 700x550 , 28.png )

>He's married? Well, that's a real un-Serpens thing, isn't it? And it's rather likely that Drizu is Axio's husband, going by what you've seen so far.
Serpents are quite odd here out in space, aren’t they? But if they want to adopt alien customs you won’t judge. You’re not sure how this… husbandry thing works, but you guess that Drizu would be the best match you know of so far for being his sole partner.
>...And going by the way Axio doesn't know the paintings are gone and that Drizu got all aggressive when he found out who you were looking for, Drizu is either involved in the paintings getting to the gallery or is hiding that the paintings are gone from Axio.
Drizu is definitely connected, especially seeing that all the paintings in the museum were gifted to him. Now, why was he so… defensive about them?
>I don't see much reason to hide the act of donating paintings to a museum.
…hmm… why do you donate something to a museum? Tax cut? No, they would need to be worth something first… to smuggle something? No, that’s stupid and to complex. No, there has to be a simple reason… like someone wanted people to see the paintings… or just wanted to get rid of them without throwing them away?

Either way, you make your way to the room Thule and his friends is using… and you find them sitting around some kind of weird techno hookah thing with cables inserted into their heads. Their vacant, blissful faces sits completely unmoving until the tranquility is broken as an electric shock jolts their whole body with regular intervals. Tezo is also here, looking rather annoyed at you.
Is a SAI drug den really your idea of a good meeting place?
To be honest, I didn’t actually know what my friend was doing in here. My apologies about that.
Hmpf. Whatever. Just tell me about mypaintingsthathave somehow found theirwaytosomewierd museum or something!?

>Tell him you're a P.I., Rishi Zsazsa, hired by the Sunstrider Gallery's owner, Isabella, to find the artist Great Green Twin Wyrm, him, and get him in contact with her.
…so you’re just some hiredgoonthatthey’vesenttofindme? Why didn’t you say so in the first place!?
>Give him Isabella‘s contact number and your contact number.
Give me her contact info so I can give her a piece of my mind.
>Tell him if his paintings are stolen you can help him recover them, so long as he can confirm that they're his. Does he sign them?
You already said they were signed with theGreatGreenTwinWyrmsoftheendlessoceansdidyounot? And they aren’t mine. I’m not the one who dreamt of those paintings.
…but you did paint them?
Huh? But I just said I-
You said you didn’t dream of them. Not that you didn’t paint them. Apparently, your artist name gave it away, the twin wyrms, as in, two people. Oh, you also called them “of the endless oceans” as well, which I haven’t heard them being called before. And dream is a term used by the SAI. You’re painting the paintings an SAI is dreaming up?
Err… I’m not…?
The paintings at the museum is all signed as “To Drizu”, whom is your… husband? You’ve been painting work of arts and given them to him.
W-wait, do you mean… Drizu has been selling m-my-
Seeing as he got a painting proudly presented in his office, I’m going to guess he donated them to the museum so others would be able to see them. He probably thinks more highly of them than you do.
But… I told him I didn’t want them… them… I didn’twantpeopletoseethemandlaughtandandand...

It seems you’ve successfully located the Artist that goes by the Great Green Twin Wyrms, or at least part of the duo. Now the question is, do you continue and try to find the other half as well or are you content with just finding one of them? You’re sure Isabella will be happy as it is… but there might be a bonus for you if you continue pressing the subject… hmm…

Also, is what Thule is doing right now even legal?

>>953286
Tell him that noone is going to laugh at them. The reason the owner wants to meet the artist is that their paintings won an award. They're good paintings.
So I'm thinking both of them should show up. The artist, and the dreamer. However, that's pretty much just up to them, and you don't really have to do it in person anymore. Just tell him that he should contact the other wyrm and suggest the both of them show up to the award ceremony. They can contact Isabella with their decision or any further questions they might have. You've done your job and opened the lines of contact, so the rest is up to Isabella, who will likely be better at handling a self-conscious artist.

Don't worry about Thule, you're explicitly not here to cause trouble or uncover any illegal activities. If anything you can tell him you're worried about him, because what they're doing looks a bit dangerous.

One of the reasons he was sought out was because of how beautiful his paintings have been. They were certainly not laughable and have garnered vast attention to their quality.

>>953291
Say this.

>>953291
This

Kaktus 2020/01/14(Tue)15:41 No. 953453 ID: 1301e8
File 157904529767.png - (91.30KB , 700x550 , 29.png )

>One of the reasons he was sought out was because of how beautiful his paintings have been. They were certainly not laughable and have garnered vast attention to their quality.
Really? So I havelikeseveralofmypaintingsondisplaythereandpeople… like them?
They’ve put up some of your newer paintings. Your older ones where described as “having potential but lacking that special touch”. The owner in the museum noticed a distinct change in your art recently and was so impressed that she started putting up your paintings for public view.
Oh… um... that would have been my friends doing if I’m going to guess asthey’vesuddenlybeenalotmorecolorfulintheir dialog with me when I’m in contact with them and are painting the things they are showing me not to mentionthattheyseemalotmorehappythoughworriedaboutsomething but I can’t really say what they are actually-
I know that we don’t need to pause for breath, but can you please slow down?
Oh, my apologies.
>The reason the owner wants to meet the artist is that their paintings won an award. They're good paintings.
So I really did win and award then what kind of award is it?
I think it was some reward for new local artist or some such? Or was it for adult art?
Adult art? Oh, right, it’s one of those paintings.

>So I'm thinking both of them should show up. The artist, and the dreamer.
Um… that might be problematic.
>Just tell him that he should contact the other wyrm and suggest the both of them show up to the award ceremony. They can contact Isabella with their decision or any further questions they might have.
See… I don’t know who the other wyrm is…
…and yet you can paint their paintings?
I got one of those neural interfaces for the comm net one of thosethatcanbeusedtomindmeld virtually through a computer.
Doesn’t those thing barely work?
While I agree the Serpent to Serpent connection still need a lot of work it’s stilldecentenoughmindconnectiontousethem with people you can’t meet in person though the thing I was going to talkaboutwasthatImetthisotheruser called 11843 who I mind melded with and it turned out they were a SAI and I suddenly was able to not only witness their dreams but we were kind of like one and we kind of painted a picture?
…you were able to mind meld a robot? I guess those interfaces do make the thoughts digital? Hmm…

>You've done your job and opened the lines of contact, so the rest is up to Isabella, who will likely be better at handling a self-conscious artist.
Oh! And I’ll call that… Isabella was it? I’ll get right on that when I get off later. From work.
Good luck with the reward, Tezo.

And with that Tezo slither out of the room and out of your mind. Which means your job here is done… unless Isabella wants you to track down the other wyrm as well… eh, that will cost her extra…

>Don't worry about Thule, you're explicitly not here to cause trouble or uncover any illegal activities. If anything you can tell him you're worried about him, because what they're doing looks a bit dangerous.
You turn around and look over at the three SAI’s. They are still completely out of it, only reacting to the violent shocks the machine in the middle is giving them.

Is that thing safe?
It’s set to an acce-ktz-ptable power level.
So it’s both safe and… legal?
Choice is binary. Either it is set to-ktz-safe levels and is legal, or it is not. This apparatus is unable to reach unsafe levels.
Oh? Wait, Tranquil? I thought you were all about being one with nature? What are you doing here?
This unit is still artificial, thus it still need simulated stimuli artifi-ktz-cially created to mimic naturally occurring effects.
…I’m not sure how getting electro shocked in the brain is a naturally occurring effect?
Mind needs to be addled before it can become a tree in the ga-ktz-rden of many eyes! Processing unit too quick to enjoy the unity of the plants and fau-ktz-na and becoming one with nature once again!
…okay?
Tranquil needs to corrupt their core so they can “con-ktz-verse” to a Uredo tree downstairs.

As on cue, Tranquil gets up from their resting place, unplugs themselves and stumbles through the door. It’s almost like they are drunk?

Well, as long as what you are doing is safe and-
It is time to bring out the whores!
And that’s definitely not legal…
Relax, we are only considering visiting the technophile club nearby.
They appreciate the mechanical stimuli we create.
Though last time you had that face they didn’t. It’s to organic looking.
I will remove my face before we depart. Though, unsure if they are in the correct setting currently. This program is usually executed on weekends.
So you’re just going to run off to some… orgy?
We would invite you, but they are technophiles.
Rishi can pretend to be SAI. She only need to go beep boop and they will fall for it.
If they do not appreciate your organic face, they will not appreciate her organic body.
Yeah, while I might have the stamina of a machine, I do not look the part.
Then we make you look the part. They got many costumes at this location.
I know someone that works down the at the rentals booth. I am sure we can borrow something for a little while for free if we ask nicely.
I’m not sure I want to deceive people…
Or we can find a visually pleasing gal and/or boy bot for Rishi here to interface with, depending on preference.
Also, do you remember that Kat told me to not wander around?
There is bound to be some visually pleasing SAI in the area designated for “dancing”. We might locate other SAI willing to join us as well.
We might locate enough SAI to enable us to skip the organics completely. Not putting subject Rishi inside the organic brackets.
This unit is willing to both interface with organics or mechanical today. Both options are viable.
Are you even listening to me?
She told me to keep my optics on you. Thus you have to come with us.
That is correct. The only way we can keep you from wandering off is to have you follow us!
*Sigh*…

You really need to report back Isabella that your job is done so you can get paid.

But then again, you’re sure she won’t mind waiting an hour or two more. Though, you’re not sure about any of the ideas that these two metal heads have brought forth, as all of them seems a bit to spontaneous. That and you were told to not wander around the club, weren’t you? But Thule is the one who’s supposed to keep an eye on you so if he leaves… hmm…

You also got that room number from that lady that wasn’t able to keep her hands to herself, but you’re definitely not sure if you actually want to see her again.

Or you can just leave and find Ben or something to have fun with instead. That’s always an option.

>>953453
There's a certain bird waiting outside for you. Ask Thule to escort you to the exit since your job here is done.

Also, there's an obvious solution to the "other wyrm" problem. Ask Tezo (you got his number, right? if not I guess you can ask Isabelle to relay the idea after he messages her) to simply pass along Isabelle's contact information via the meld thing. Only potential problem is that they might not be melding on a regular basis. In that case I guess you would have to find the SAI after all.

>>953453
Ah, damn, I forgot to ask Tezo something. I wanted to see if he could explain why Drizu Axio overreacted and had his secretary tell us that he said to never speak, contact or come near him ever again or he will call the Peace Keepers and have us arrested for harassment?

I really wanted to know why mentioning Great Green Twin Wyrm set him off like that.

>>953456
>There's a certain bird waiting outside for you. Ask Thule to escort you to the exit since your job here is done.
Yeah, Leon is waiting for you outside. If you don’t show up, he might get worried about you.

Also, he still needs to give you a good reason to get a mouth mod. “Eating donuts” is his only argument so far and he needs to come up with something better than that.

>>953453
Go outside to Leon. Call Isabella and report in.

Your job here is done, you don't want to get caught where you shouldn't be and kicked out and banned 'cause you might want to come back here later, and it'd be rude to keep Leon waiting for a hour or two more for you. You also need to call Ben about a possible threesome with Kat. Better ask Thule to lead you outside.

Make a note to try that digital mind meld tech with a SAI at some point. It'd be real interesting to feel what melding with one of them is like, even if it is a pale imitation of a Serpens to Serpens meld.

Kaktus 2020/01/17(Fri)15:25 No. 953746 ID: 1301e8
File 157930352341.png - (69.23KB , 700x550 , 30.png )

>Wanted to see if he could explain why Drizu Axio overreacted and had his secretary tell us that he said to never speak, contact or come near him ever again or he will call the Peace Keepers and have us arrested for harassment?
Drizu and Tezo seems to be rather close, ergo, it probably has to do with that emotional connection. Be it that Drizu simply don’t want Tezo being harassed over his art, that he didn’t want Tezo knowing that he had donated the art or that he don’t want their relationship to be further scrutinized for some reason.
>There's an obvious solution to the "other wyrm" problem. Ask Tezo to simply pass along Isabelle's contact information via the meld thing.
You’re sure he will do so without needing to be prompted to… or if not, then Isabella will surely request it.
>Make a note to try that digital mind meld tech with a SAI at some point. It'd be real interesting to feel what melding with one of them is like, even if it is a pale imitation of a Serpens to Serpens meld.
You’re not sure about that whole virtual melding interface thing in the first place. It just feels so… intrusive…

>There's a certain bird waiting outside for you.
Bird? Oh, right, Leon! Verily, with all that being a plate business you completely forgot about him. You’re on a date, after all, so you can’t leave him… what do the Varkian call it again? Blue balled?
>He still needs to give you a good reason to get a mouth mod. “Eating donuts” is his only argument so far and he needs to come up with something better than that.
Well, he did also mention kissing… then again, what else can you do with a mouth that doesn’t involve either food or lewd stuff?

>Ask Thule to escort you to the exit since your job here is done.
Aw, you’re no fun, organic.
If that is what you wish, Rishi. Come with me if you want to leave.

Thule does his best to keep himself steady as he leads you outside again. He’s apparently in such a hurry that as soon as you get outside he grunts a quick goodbye before heading back inside, leaving you right next to Kat, the bouncer.

Oh, hey girl. Had fun? Thanks for bailing out my friend, by the way.
I should be thanking you for letting me get inside in the first place.
And the meathead was in such a hurry that I wasn’t even able to say hi because…?
He and his friend is going to crash some technophile meeting, I believe.
Techno… wait, you mean those robot lovers? But they are only here on the weekends.
…then who’s party are they going to crash?
Let me look up who’s renting that room… oh, it’s seem to a group of boys celebrating coming of age… and… heh… they have ordered a male stripper.
…so Thule is about the crash a party of young, horny guys who’ll probably think he’s a stripper? You know, I kind of regret I didn’t tag along just so I could see how that mess would have ended.
And I wish I should leave this stupid post…
Hey, don’t forget about our date with our friend later?
I’m still not sure about that…
I’ll call you later, cutie.
Yeah, whatever…

Kaktus 2020/01/17(Fri)15:25 No. 953747 ID: 1301e8
File 157930353991.png - (85.74KB , 700x550 , 31.png )

>Call Isabella and report in.
Tezo Axio, you say? And he will contact me later? How magnificent! As soon as I’ve verified that he indeed is the artist you’ll be compensated in full, my beautiful amethyst.
Just doing my job, ma’am.
When you get the time, please do drop by my museum. I still have some things I wish to converse about, my soft scaled friend.
Um… sure.
>You also need to call Ben about a possible threesome with Kat.
I really don’t have the time to talk right now and THE FUCK? A threesome!?
With a cute Hiver lady that’s just waiting to dominate you, Ben.
R-Rishi!? Y-you can’t just… j-just set up a threesome like that, you hear!?
I haven’t set anything up yet. Verily, I’m just asking if you would be interested.
Ugh, I c-can’t... I… I t-think about that later. I really need to go. Smell you later, Rishi.
May the tide be with you.


Finding Leon turns out to be an easy task, as you simply need to follow the commotion. You find him halfway up one of those giant mushrooms, seemingly trying to get a stuck pet down for a small, hiver child.

Come here, little friend, I’ll get you down in no time… oh, hello Ri-

You watch as he does a double take as he lay his eyes on you and almost manages to fall down the mushroom from the sheer shock of seeing you. He hasn’t seen you in this dress before, has he?

Gah! I… um… d-didn’t expect you being dressed so… err… classy?

While Leon flails around on the mushroom you take your time to check your messages. Apparently you’ve received several while you were inside the club.

[Yo! You’re like Ben friend, right? This is Julia. Or Rend. Or the red one. Or some fuck. We got a job for you down at the scrap yard if you’re interested. We can’t pay too much but it should be a milk run. Come by so we can talk. Smell you later.]
[Greetings. This is Security officer Karte of the Sol Corp. We are willing to hiring your expertise concerning a recent theft. Please get an appointment at the info desk at Sol Corp HQ for more information if you’re willing to accept this contract.]
[The tides brings you our greetings, Rishi Zsazsa. This is the local Brood pit of the Sunstrider Spire. We are in need of a Serpents capable of tracking down certain people. Please contact us as soon as possible so we can discuss the details of hiring you.]
…you’ve never gotten this many job offer at once before. Verily, it’s a bit… stressful…

So, as soon as I g-get *huff* this cute little critter down, I was thinking… you’re done with *huff* your glorious quest, correct? Then it would only be fair if I honored you with a great reward for your courageous deed as we continue our date! Stargazing is common activity after getting coffee together… or do you wish to do something else? Maybe I can treat you to a grand feast in honor of such a grand knight! Sadly I do not have a fair maiden to reward you with, hah- H-hey, don’t bite my hand! You’ll scratch the metal.

well we're not really hurting for money I believe so maybe take up Rends job. That one is a bit more personal and it might be nice to help out some friends.

As for the upcoming date... maybe grab a drink/snack and head on out to the stargazing thing. Might be nice to have a nice simple and relaxing date since I feel things might be getting a little hectic in the coming days if all those job offers are anything to go by. Or if you really want to go full ham on the relaxing part maybe see if the two of you can't find a spa and get pampered together.

Stargazing is fine.
Yeah alright do the scrap yard job.

>>953747
>Ben’s reaction
That’s the reaction of someone that doesn’t like being roped into things with being present to voice his own opinion. Perhaps next time, instead of assuming he’d be ok with something, you should just not try to sign him up for something again.

>jobs
Let’s do the scrap yard one. After you finish this date with Leon.

>…you’ve never gotten this many job offer at once before. Verily, it’s a bit…stressful…
That just means that you’re doing a good job! But if it’s really stressing you out, then you might want to consider hiring someone to help you! Which would also be useful if you’re ever sick or injured or something that prevents you from working, your helper will be able to continue doing jobs while you recover.

>Leon
Tell him to focus on what he’s doing because he might fall!

>activities with Leon?
Grab some food and go stargazing.

>>953747
Food and stargazing.

Kaktus 2020/01/19(Sun)16:02 No. 953874 ID: 1301e8
File 157947854849.png - (36.29KB , 700x550 , 32.png )

>That’s the reaction of someone that doesn’t like being roped into things with being present to voice his own opinion. Perhaps next time, instead of assuming he’d be ok with something, you should just not try to sign him up for something again.
While you have to admit that you might have jumped the wave as well as explained it badly to him, your intention wasn’t to sign him up to anything without his consent. As you said to Kat, you need to talk to both of them before you make any solid plans.
>I feel things might be getting a little hectic in the coming days if all those job offers are anything to go by.
Quoad hoc, you should really take it easy with this date. Maybe pick the “milk run” job first as well.

>That just means that you’re doing a good job! But if it’s really stressing you out, then you might want to consider hiring someone to help you!
Even with the steady income of jobs, you still aren’t making enough credits to hire someone else full time. Verily, you rather not delegate your work to someone else either, as you like having control over what gets done. Hiring some kind of accountant or secretary part time might be an option, though. It’s those darn reports and billing certificates that take so damn much time.
>We're not really hurting for money I believe so maybe take up Rends job. That one is a bit more personal and it might be nice to help out some friends.
It does mean meeting Ben and his friends again, if anything.
>After you finish this date with Leon.
Of course. You might still contact this “Julia” or Rend or whatever she likes to be called for some extra details if you get a quiet moment, but you’ll wait with actually visiting them in person until after this alien date procedure is completed.

>Tell him to focus on what he’s doing because he might fall!
Do not fret about my wellbeing, lady Rishi, my mechanical arms are designed to be able to have a firm grip. I only wish this little critter would be more cooperative.
>If you really want to go full ham on the relaxing part maybe see if the two of you can't find a spa and get pampered together.
As much as you want to get back into some water while sitting next to Leon’s naked bum, you’re certain that you’ll need to actually reserve a time if you want to get a private room at a spa. Besides, isn’t it a bit… much?
>Maybe grab a drink/snack and head on out to the stargazing thing.
Leon finally manages to get the pet down from the mushroom tree with minimal damage to himself, after which he gets a very grateful “Thanks mister birdy” from the Hiver kid as he returns it. Going by how he practically blinds you with his huge smile you assume Leon found that reward enough.

Well, aren’t you a hero?
All in a day’s work, ma’am.

The two of you make your way across the station, towards one of the observations decks that is currently aimed towards the planet that New Horizon orbits. Before you enter the two of you take a few minutes to purchase a few snacks, just enough to be appetizing, but not enough for you to spoil your lunch. Then to get into the observation deck proper you actually have to go through a large airlock, just in case of an emergency. Verily, it makes the whole thing more exciting… though the view alone is exciting enough as it is.

Woah, that… that thing is huge.
Planets usually are rather big, yes.
…though, I’m a bit disappointed it’s so… much black. Where are all the colors?
It’s called the big black for a reason, you know.
…it makes you feel so… small, doesn’t it? Just watching that great expanse, going out into the infinite.
It get even worse when you realize that one of those small dots out there is the star that your glorious home world is traveling around.
Wait, what is that red thing?
I’m pretty sure that’s just a ship.
Huh…

Kaktus 2020/01/19(Sun)16:02 No. 953875 ID: 1301e8
File 157947855756.png - (79.93KB , 700x550 , 33.png )

While things are quiet, you take a moment to message Julia/Rend about the job.

[The tides brings you salutations, friend. I am Rishi Zsazsa, Private Di- Private detective and I am indeed Ben friend. You don’t happen to have a minute to share some details of that job offering you had?]
[You already know the fucking deal, mate. Some fuckers are bumming our stuff and the rozzers can’t be arsed to do anything about it. So just find out who the bastard is that’s been nicking our scrap and we’ll fork out some creds, eh? It will be a fucking milk run, like doing the rumpy pumpy with Ben.]
[…you want me to catch whoever it is stealing scrap metal from the junkyard?]
[No shit, you bloody pillock. What else would I fucking want? To crush your pathetic pelvis between my thunder thighs? You wish, eh? Just get here soon so we can catch the wanker who got our stuff.]
[Sure, I’ll come by later…]

…that was an interesting conversation.


You know… it’s a bit cold…
The big black does look rather cold, doesn’t it… not to mention the ice clad planet that’s-
No, I mean that it’s cold in here.
Oh, that. It’s because of the windows. While they endure in their duty to show us the wonders of the outside, they fail when it comes to keeping the warmth of the station in.
So they are real windows and not just viewing screens. That’s why we needed to go through an airlock?
While it would require strength of a mad dragon to break them, they are still a weak point in the hull of the station. No need to worry, lady Rishi, as they won’t break short of a ship crashing into them.
What I’m worried about is the cold… do you mind if I snuggle with you a bit?
Oh… err… I’d… be honored to?

You lean on his shoulder while letting your long tail constrict his body in a large hug.

There, that’s better.
Heh… err… I guess we work better as a team when it comes to… keeping warm…
…so, anyway, does this count as a second date or does the coffee not count?
Huh? Why does it matter if this glorious moment is date one or two?
Well, you said we couldn’t have fun until the third date so…
That’s n-not… not how it works, Lady Rishi.
…you know, I think our different cultures considering relationships might make this a bit awkward. What do you even expect of me in this relationship?
…I… I’m not actually sure… you’re so different from the women where I come from… what are you looking for in a relationship with me?
…hmm…

>>953874
>red thing
Note to self: get a telescope or something and find out what it is for sure.

>what do you want out of a (personal) relationship with Leon
Good company, and the occasional booty call. Pretty normal Serpens stuff. Oh, he'd be good at keeping you on the righteous path as well, as sometimes PI work can delve into morally grey areas. The help he's willing to give you on cases is part of your professional relationship, not personal.

>Red thing
Oh god it's a sniper! nah but for real as for what you want in a relationship... well why not tell him how normal serpen relationships work out, see how relationships work out for his species, and try to meet somewhere in the middle and see if the both of you are comfortable with it.

>>953875
>cold
Heat can't travel through a vaccuum. For heat to be absorbed, there needs to be matter to absorb it. That's why the glass on the front of your oven doesn't burn you if you touch it.

>>953875
>Rishi gives Leon a full body hug.
Seems like Leon is enjoying it, since his tail is wrapped around your tail.

>relationship?
>>953879
>>953889
Both of these.

>>953902
Then I guess Rishi and Leon need to inform the maintenance crew that the heater in the observation deck isn’t working. Or maybe someone turned the ac on way too high?

>>953889
Trying to meet in the middle sounds like a good idea.

Kaktus 2020/01/20(Mon)15:49 No. 953943 ID: 1301e8
File 157956415406.png - (44.94KB , 700x550 , 34.png )

>Note to self: get a telescope or something and find out what it is for sure.
Whatever it is it will be long gone by the time you find a telescope. Besides, you can actually see other ships floating past, close enough for you to see some of the details even.
>Oh god it's a sniper!
Oh no! You better throw yourself on Leon so you can get him out of harm’s way… and just accidently land on top of him. But seriously, why would there even be a sniper in space? …and would a sniper bullet even be able to penetrate the glass? Hmm…
>Seems like Leon is enjoying it, since his tail is wrapped around your tail.
His body tries to not show it but his tail betrays his true feelings. Tails are one of the worst snitchers in the universe, true fact.

>Heat can't travel through a vaccuum. For heat to be absorbed, there needs to be matter to absorb it.
…don’t space ship have heat sinks installed just because how hard it is to keep things cold in space? After all, heat needs a medium to travel through… and space is rather empty. Ergo, that can’t be the reason why it is so cold out here.
Wait, the heat doesn’t leave through the windows? But when I asked them the first time I was here why it was so cold they said it was because the windows were horrible insulators? Did… did they dishonor themselves with the untruth?
Or you simply misunderstood them.
>Then I guess Rishi and Leon need to inform the maintenance crew that the heater in the observation deck isn’t working. Or maybe someone turned the ac on way too high?
I am certain they are doing their task honorable, as it has always been this cold each time I have been to one of these observatories.
They said they were bad insulators… but they can’t let the heat out… so… they are letting the heat… in? But space is cold, isn’t it?
But the nearby star is hot?
But wouldn’t the whole station cook if that was the case? …or does the rest of the station have better insulation against the heat? We also went through an airlock to get here, so it’s possible it simply another system that can’t keep things as warm? Does that make sense?
…I cannot say.
Verily, this is getting bothersome enough for us to change the subject.
You did not honor me with an answer about what you were expecting between us?
Oh, right.

>Good company, and the occasional booty call. Pretty normal Serpens stuff.
…that’s all you’re…?
I’m looking for a good friend and not a serious relationship.
Oh… of course…
>See how relationships work out for his species, and try to meet somewhere in the middle and see if the both of you are comfortable with it.
Well… we usually have a relationship just between two people… who start a life together, get married, lay a clutch…
I can’t really tie myself to just one person. Not right now, at least.
I’m not sure I’m comfortable being with someone that… honor other people with their intimacy.
…so, then we can just be friends?
I guess that works…
Just see me as a friend that you can experiment with until you find an actual girlfriend, eh?
Experiment?
Trying new experiences is always good… and if things get to uncomfortable, we can always just stop, can’t we? Are you sure there isn’t anything you’d like to try some time?
Well… there was this… BTL…
See? There’s always something new to experience.
Forget I said anything. But yes, honorable friends… whom train together… that might work…

The two of you sit there watching a few ships slowly drift by in silence for a while… only breaking it with the occasional small talk… like what you can do with a mouth.

…you can sing?
I can already sing. Well, badly, but still sing.
But not with an actual voice?
Is that really that much different?
Other than that… well… the main duty of the mouth is to eat and make noise so…
Hmm… I’ll keep considering it… after all, I do have the credits for it…

More pleasant silence… more ships… and someone floating in space in a space suit… huh…

…a feather for your thoughts?
That floating in space like that looks really fun…
Walking into space does sound glorious, doesn’t it?
…and can you… you know?
…trust me, zero g is a bad place for… that.
I was also thinking about this next job I just got. It’s in the scrapyard down on the lower levels.
Oh, you mean the thefts? I did send someone to look at it, but sadly, they couldn’t do much. As I understand it, the only way to solve that is to catch the culprit while they do the dishonorable deed themselves.
So… a “glorious stake out”, then?
Sadly, I’ll need to honor them with my presence at work tomorrow, so I can’t in good faith be part of an all-night stake out the day before.
Sadly…

...so… as much as you like basking in Leon’s body heat and watching the stars, it’s time to do something else. Though, you’re pretty sure Leon doesn’t want to tag along while you work all day. How do you end one of these alien date things anyway?

give him a little snuggle (since you can't kiss do to lack of a mouth) and thank him for spending time with you. It was nice to hang out with a big, strong (give him a little squeeze since you're still wrap around him) cop and destress a little. Also before you head out let him know that if he ever does want to give that BTL thing a try you'd be more then glad to help him out and not to hesitate to give you a call. You're always willing to help out a friend.

>>953943
Ask him if he wants to take you back to his place for some "training".

Kaktus 2020/01/22(Wed)17:04 No. 954121 ID: 1301e8
File 157974144824.png - (73.47KB , 700x550 , 35.png )

>Give him a little snuggle (since you can't kiss due to lack of a mouth) and thank him for spending time with you.
You nuzzle his cheek lovingly and give his whole body a hug with your tail, earning a slight purr from Leon. He clearly likes the attention you’re giving him.

>It was nice to hang out with a big, strong cop and destress a little.
A true knight is always ready to serve, brave Rishi.
Though the whole knight in shining armor deal is getting a bit… stale…
Someone has to uphold the honorable culture of Tranquil Hope.
Uh huh, I’m sure someone has to… but even then, it makes you a bit of a dork… Verily, a cute dork, sure, but still a complete dork.
I for one would rather be a dork than to be without honor!
Ergo, you’re a dork.

>Let him know that if he ever does want to give that BTL thing a try you'd be more then glad to help him out and not to hesitate to give you a call. You're always willing to help out a friend.
D-didn’t I say to forget about that?
A true knight is always ready to serve, brave Leon. If you courage ever falters when it comes to that BTL, do not hesitate to call upon my aid!
Heh, and who’s the dork now?
We can both be dorks, can’t we? Cute dorks.
Well… I’ll… consider it… calling for your aid, that is…
>Ask him if he wants to take you back to his place for some "training".
Err… R-Rishi…
To soon? Very well, I’ll give you some time to consider my proposal.

After leaving the cold embrace of the observation deck the two of you bid each other farewell, with Leon leaving you with a kiss on your hand and a bow. You guess it’s time to get back to work… which means going back to the office to write an report for Isabella… great…

Kaktus 2020/01/22(Wed)17:04 No. 954122 ID: 1301e8
File 157974145664.png - (149.32KB , 700x550 , 36.png )

After a few hours of paperwork and a brief lunch, you consider heading directly to the museum to report your progress in person, but you decide to leave it be for just a moment longer. Instead, you head down to the junkyard on the lower levels to scout out your next job.

As you arrive you find that the Junkyard is currently occupied by several large freighters hauling around large amount of metal seemingly on random. Luckily, you also find Rend and Tear sitting outside, having a break, and discussing something…

-stick out of the wall.
…’ready see a lot of problems with that idea.
Then we just pretend it’s isn’t all fucking private like and the other wankers aren’t people we ‘now but just some fucking strangers, eh?
…’rst, what wall were you considering destroying? Second, you know that the others take a large cut each. We won’t make any brass on it. As much as you want a ton of-
Hey, look see. It’s the private Hampton, eh?
…’o it is. Greetings… Rishi, was it?

The tides brings you salutations, Tear and… Julia, was it?
My fucking friends call me Julia. I’m Rend to all the other knob-ends.
…friend to big bro is a friend to us. My real name is Drusa, if you’re wondering.
But if you ever hurt big bro I’ll bite your fucking head off, eh?
…’t threaten our friends, little bro… …little sis.
I have nothing but good intentions with Ben, believe me. Now, about this job you offered me?
…’e of the metal scarp have been disappearing. While the amount each time it happens is small enough for it to not really matter, it is starting to add up. We can’t let it go on unhindered any longer.
So… find where ever the scrap is disappearing to and put a stop to it. That seems simple enough in theory… and the pay?
…’ve sent the numbers to you.
Huh. That’s a really nice hour rate you’re willing to-
That’s all the fucking moolah we can give you for the whole fucking job, eh?
…well, I’m lucky I’ve had two big paydays recently, then. Now, back to the case… hmm… cui bono?
…cute bone?
…’k if we know. Who would want metal scrap like this without being willing to pay? …kids? That’s all I got?
Hmm… either way, I’m going to need to see the junkyard.
Can’t fucking do that right now. The place is full of heavy machinery and pillocks who drives them, eh?
…’tle bro means that you’ll need to come back after working hours to check it out. Though… that means one of us needs to stay to keep watch as well…
Well, I’m not going to fucking bum around here all evening.
…’ather not stay either, but one of us need to stay so Rishi can do her job.

1) Ask Rend / Julia to meet you here later.
2) Ask Tear / Drusa to meet you here later.
3) Try and to convince them both to meet you here later… somehow…

A) Get Ben to come by as well.
B) Get Haley to come by as well… Robots never need to sleep, right?
C) …other?

>>954122
1.
We haven't spoken to Tear much, let's ask her to stick around.

>2) Ask Tear / Drusa to meet you here later.
>A) Get Ben to come by as well.

Tear seems like they're better at tell what exactly is happening so I'm saying ask her to stick around. Also Ben because he actually knows the place so he'd probably be better at picking out anything out of place then we would be.

>>954122
Why does the picture on that sign on the fence look like it’s saying, “No high fives allowed”? What do they have against high fives?

>Who should meet Rishi here later?
I say Tear / Drusa because Rishi can understand what he/she is saying.

Rishi has constantly needed to ask Rend / Julia to repeat what she said because she didn’t understand something that was said and that’s kinda not helpful.

>bring Ben?
Let’s not. We’ve bothered him enough when we surprised him with that threesome.

>>954128
>Also Ben because he actually knows the place
Are you implying that neither Rend / Julia nor Tear / Drusa know the place they work at? Because I’m pretty sure they know this place just as much as Ben does!

Thinking of doing some renovating?
It won't be all night, just draw straws or something. Hell, I'll call up Ben and we'll all come down here together, we'll be done in time for bedtime and a glass of warm milk. Or whatever the hell it is mammals do before bed...

>>954139
>Are you implying that neither Rend / Julia nor Tear / Drusa know the place they work at? Because I’m pretty sure they know this place just as much as Ben does

just saying out of the two immediate tag alongs he seems more immediately helpful. Besides it's better to have two pair of eyes that know what to look for then just 1.

Kaktus 2020/01/24(Fri)18:21 No. 954373 ID: 1301e8
File 157991886097.png - (118.73KB , 700x550 , 37.png )

>Why does the picture on that sign on the fence look like it’s saying, “No high fives allowed”? What do they have against high fives?
“No unauthorized people allowed”. You’re pretty sure is supposed to look like someone that’s saying stop and not asking for a high five… of course, you’re so going to high five the sign when you get the chance.
>Rishi has constantly needed to ask Rend / Julia to repeat what she said because she didn’t understand something that was said and that’s kinda not helpful.
While you have to admit her way of… “speaking” is a bit hard to understand at times, you usually managed to get the gist of it after you get a moment to decipher what she said.
>Are you implying that neither Rend / Julia nor Tear / Drusa know the place they work at? Because I’m pretty sure they know this place just as much as Ben does!
Considering that Ben doesn’t work here and they do… combined with the fact that you are pretty sure Drusa’s father owns the place, you can only come to the conclusion that Ben probably doesn’t know as much about the junkyard as they do. Verily, you want Ben around because you already know him and he knows these two, ergo he’s a decent bridge to remove the gap between you and them.

>We haven't spoken to Tear much, let's ask her to stick around.
Yesss, no overtime for this fucker!
…’s your superior, I might just ask you to stay.
As my superior, you know more about the half-inching steel that I do, eh?
…’ne, you don’t need to stay after work.
Sweet. Got to work on the bod, eh? Can’t keep this temple shining without some free time to spend. Maybe hang out with a big bro a bit after that, now that he had a snog… heh…
…’pe you have fun…
You know, if you really don’t want to-
No, no, it’s fine… I’m sure you won’t keep me too long.
Either way, I owe ya one, Ms. Hampton!

Julia slams her hand into your back, spreading searing pain through your whole back as well as almost knocking you over. Going by her apologetic look afterwards you can only assume it was an accident to hit you that hard.

Ow!
Ops. Seems I owe the Hampton a kiss as well for that, eh? To make you feel better, hehe.
>Thinking of doing some renovating?
If you want to call it that, sure. Oh, hey, big sis, Rishi her might help for free if-
We’re not asking her to help, Rend. She’s a professional, she already got work.
Well, I work my arse of every day for you wankers as well…
…’od paying work. She clearly don’t need extra brass.
Who doesn’t need extra moolah, eh? But you’re right, I got carried away.
…you two got some extra work to offer?
…No. Rend here is just a… in her on words, a pillock.
Eh… true…
…’e just brought up something private like an arse, that’s all.
>I'll call up Ben and we'll all come down here together, we'll be done in time for bedtime and a glass of warm milk. Or whatever the hell it is mammals do before bed...
I think I heard that he was going to be busy after he got off from work.
Oh, yeah, that. He said something about getting some extra brass for some milk run job.
Hmm? So he accepted the job then? Let me call him and check… … …
…’o answer?
He isn’t picking up, no.

…’m sure he’s busy. And speaking of busy, our break is over. Let’s get back to work, little sis.
So when do you guys get off?
In about 2 hours. I’ll be waiting for you here so we can check the junkyard, you hear?
That will give me enough time to report to Isabella, so sure, see you in 2.
Smell you later Hampton, eh?

You let Julia and Drusa get back to work as you start heading towards the museum to talk to Isabella and, if Rend was right about Ben doing extra work, he might be there as well. Right after you give that sign a high five, of course.

Kaktus 2020/01/24(Fri)18:21 No. 954374 ID: 1301e8
File 157991887188.png - (33.15KB , 700x550 , 38.png )

As you arrive you’re told by the information desk that Isabella is teaching an art class right now and can’t be disturbed, but when you tell them your name while trying to leave a message they actually ask you to go and see her at once.

You’re directed to a smaller, more private section of the museum, where you find Isabella gliding around a large circle of painters surrounding a model. You also find out why Ben didn’t answer your call, as he’s currently the center of attention of this little gathering.

…he’s completely naked… and making a very obscene gesture. He gives you a glare when he sees you, and while his face say that he hates doing this with the intensity of a thousand suns, his tails tells you that he rather enjoy the attention, the little snitch.

Ah, I see that you’ve found the newest jewel in my collection. A rough stone just waiting to be polished into a fine emerald, won’t you agree, my lovely amethyst?
…He actually willingly posed nude?
For the right price, indeed. Though, we started with he fully clothed. After all, the cultural significance of his wear couldn’t be discarded and was much more interesting a motive for my students to study and understand, to feel and to become.
I’m sure he’ll make a fine model but that’s not why I’m here. You wanted to talk about-
And let not to mention his way of standing! I asked him to simply do what was natural for him and he commended me very rudely to leave. Such uncut, risqué way of acting is so… so exciting!
…my case? Do you want my rep-
Oh, he is such a muse, whispering such grand ideas as I merely glance at him. Why, I just must impart these emotions unto a blank canvas! I will need to hire him for a private session after my students are done her, so I can finally immortalize a filthy jewel such as him!
Are you even listening to me? What about the award?
Who cares about some stupid award. I got my masterpiece standing there right in front of me and nothing else matter. Oh, what wonderful sights he will show me as I embrace him into my painting, an emerald hidden in the depths of destitute and filth.

…you can smell alcohol on her breath. Has she been drinking?

>>954374
Just give Ben a wink and nothing else. You don’t need to disturb him while he’s busy.

>What do?
Just say “Great Green Twin Wyrm”. Hopefully that’ll remind Isabella on why she hired you.

>Considering that Ben doesn’t work here and they do
Wait I could have sworn it was said that they all worked together... now that I think about it didn't punk work at a grocer? Damn it has been awhile, my bad.

tell her that the Wyrm might be contacting her soon and see if that get's her attention. Also see if you can't ask her how long she's planning on holding Ben here.

Kaktus 2020/01/28(Tue)17:37 No. 954747 ID: 1301e8
File 158026183221.png - (90.35KB , 700x550 , 39.png )

>Wait I could have sworn it was said that they all worked together... now that I think about it didn't punk work at a grocer?
Punk works at a Supermarket down on Level 35. The three of them seems to be really close friends, though, so it wouldn’t be too far off to take a guess that he might have worked there before.
>Just give Ben a wink and nothing else. You don’t need to disturb him while he’s busy.
He responds with the exact same obscene gesture he was already holding, though moving it just enough for it to be aimed at you.

>Just say “Great Green Twin Wyrm”. Hopefully that’ll remind Isabella on why she hired you.
Mmm? Oh, yes, yes, that thing. That can wait.
But didn’t you ask me personally to come over and converse to you about the subject?
That was before I was presented with this… this masterpiece of a… a… muse!
Verily, I feel a bit offended right now, considering how rudely you’re acting.
R-rude? I’m no- By Jove, you’re right. Do please forgive my transgressions, my beautiful amethyst, as I was caught up in the moment.
So… will you actually listen to me now.
As soon as I’m done here, yes, of course. Can I be so bold to ask you to be patient just a bit longer? This class is just about the end.
>Also see if you can't ask her how long she's planning on holding Ben here.
Holding him? Why… as long as it takes, love…
…you’re not planning on chaining him down or anything, are you?
Chain, you say? Why, what a splendid idea, my emerald eyed friend! Chaining him down would be just the thing I need!
You’re not seriously-

Suddenly a loud chime echoes through the large halls and on its signal all the painters around Ben turns around and look at Isabella, whom take a step forward to address them.

Sadly, my dear students, our time here together is over once again. If you wish to continue painting, then this locale will be open for several hours more for your use. Now, of you’ll excuse us, I have to take our lovely model away for the evening.

There is slight murmur between the painters as most of them starts pack away their things, but several of them stays to finish what seems to be a naked portrait of Ben himself. Isabella practically floats soundlessly over to him and gives him a robe to cover himself with, but even before he manage to get it on properly she start pushing him out of the room.

W-wait, isn’t my job done?
Why, yes… but I need you for another, quick job. A private job. Just between the two of us.
…a private job?
I need you to model for a painting I have in mind. Don’t you worry, it won’t take too much of your time.
…I’m getting paid for this, right?
You will be compensated, my lovely little emerald.

As she pass you on her way out of the room, she gesture for you to follow.

Come to my office. We can talk there.
If you say so.

Kaktus 2020/01/28(Tue)17:37 No. 954748 ID: 1301e8
File 158026184279.png - (41.37KB , 700x550 , 40.png )

Isabella leads you to the end of the corridor, where a spectacled Serpens is manning a desk right next to a large door.

Ah, here we are, my office… which leads to my private studio where our little emerald will be immortalized.
And you want me to come with you?
H-hey, no n-need to push…
Actually, can you wait outside for just a moment while I prepare our lovely model in my studio? My assistant can assist you for the time being.

And with that she pushes Ben into her office and closes the door on you. At the same time here assistant slithers around her table and up to you.

Rishi Zsazsa, private detective, correct?
That is me, yes. I’m here about my pay?
You will be compensated as according to your contract as soon as the artist calls us and we can confirm it’s them. Now, is your report ready for the job?
I’ll send it over to you right now.
Hmm… yes… this seems to be in… wait, extra pay for being a… and I quote “a living plate”?
The artist was hiding out inside a private club. The only way I managed to get in was by accepting a job as a living plate for free. Verily, I’m not really sure what I was doing, it was one of those weird alien things.
That does sound like a weird alien things, indeed. Even after living here for years I get surprised in just how alien they can actually be. Did you know that they sign contracts to stay with only one mate? And if someone breaks that contract then they’ll have to give half of their belongings to the other one?
And here I thought them not sleeping in water tanks was odd.
I don’t see how they do it? Those beds of theirs are so uncomfortable and-

The assistant is cut off by a very feminine scream coming from Isabella’s office.

Kaktus 2020/01/28(Tue)17:37 No. 954749 ID: 1301e8
File 158026185051.png - (22.38KB , 700x550 , 41.png )

Even before you’re been able to register the scream you’re already springing into action, leaping towards the door of the office. Within seconds you’re rushing inside, closely followed by the assistant. You quickly scan the office and find the source of the noise which seems to have been Isabella herself, whom is lying on the floor unmoving, with her head in Ben’s lap.

What is goi-
GET AWAY FROM HER, YOU MONSTER!
Huh!? What? Mo- I found her like this! I heard something hitting the floor from inside the room over there and came to check and found her like this!

Ben gesture towards a door on the other side of the office, which is currently hanging ajar.

A likely story! We just heard her scream a second ago! There’s no way you can have heard her, run out here and gotten down on your knees before we got in here.
Let’s not jump to conclusions here.
I’m calling the peace keepers! Step away from her, Sakkilian!
Hey, I haven’t done anything, honest!

…and things just got complicated.

god damnit, alright first things first can you see if she's actually hurt or just unconscious.

Also ask if there are any other ways into this room besides the way you came in.

>>954749
Tell the assistant to calm down and repeat that she shouldn’t jump to conclusions! You’re an investigator, so you’re going to investigate!

Then get Ben to tell you what happened while you check on Isabella. After you’ve done that, go look through the ajar door to see what’s in there.

>>954749
This has something to do with that "chaining him down" comment, I'm sure. Might be some kind of roleplay going on. Wait, that's weird, he heard the thump and came running, not the scream? Yeah this is probably roleplay. Either that or he's lying to cover for some kind of horrible accident, but he doesn't seem upset enough for anything truly bad to have happened.
Assure the assistant that you know Punk well enough that he wouldn't have attacked the lady out of nowhere. Also you are a PI and can get right down to the truth of the matter. Take in the scene before you barge in, then check on her vitals to see if she needs first aid.

>>954749
Check her eyes, are her pupils dilated? If she's intoxicated, she could have just fallen over drunk.

>>954781
That’s right. Rishi said she smelled alcohol on Isabella‘s breath earlier, so it’s entirely possible that she just passed out.

>>954782
And the scream could have been Ben screaming in surprise when seeing Isabella on the floor. It'd fit the order of events he laid out better than Isabella screaming.

...of course, if he was the one who screamed then the order of events makes much more sense. He came in after the thump, screamed at seeing her lying there, and had enough time to kneel down before the others barged in.

>>954749
Inform the assistant that Ben said he heard something hit the floor, he never said he heard Isabella scream. Which means that he was the one that screamed, not Isabella.

Kaktus 2020/01/31(Fri)12:20 No. 955106 ID: 1301e8
File 158050200960.png - (247.88KB , 700x550 , 42.png )

>Tell the assistant to calm down and repeat that she shouldn’t jump to conclusions! You’re an investigator, so you’re going to investigate!
Investigator!? You’re just some cheap private detective.
Ergo, I am currently the best suited to come up with any conclusions until the Peace Keepers arrive, starting with the conclusion that Punk here is innocent.
Damn right I am, you hear!
Now, if you two would please slither a bit back and let me work…
>Alright first things first can you see if she's actually hurt or just unconscious.
Let’s see… she’s still breathing, which is good… and I can’t see any wounds on her either… do either of you see anything wrong with her?
Don’t ask me, I don’t know bird anatomy.
Umm… I don’t know…? Besides her lying on the floor, she looks… fine?
So we can conclude that she’s probably not in danger? Moving on…
>Check her eyes, are her pupils dilated? If she's intoxicated, she could have just fallen over drunk.
…her eyes are white with… green circles in them? Are they supposed to look like that? Green is a good color?
I think green is her normal color, yes?
Her eyes are green and they are supposed to stay that way.
Wait, your eyes don’t change color? Really?
No, my eyes doesn’t change colors. That’s not normal.
Aliens are weird…

>Ask if there are any other ways into this room besides the way you came in..
There’s only one door leading in here and I’ve been sitting in front of it since lunch. No one has gone in here other than Isabella herself.
And that door over there? The one Punk came out from?
That leads to her private studio. It’s a dead end.
>This has something to do with that "chaining him down" comment, I'm sure. Might be some kind of role-play going on.
…this isn’t some roleplaying the two of you are doing, is it?
WHAT!? NO!
Just checking to be sure…
>The scream could have been Ben screaming in surprise when seeing Isabella on the floor. It'd fit the order of events he laid out better than Isabella screaming.
Let me get this correct. Ben, you heard something hitting the floor and came to check it?
That is fucking right, yeah.
You heard something hitting the floor, but not a scream. Ergo, the scream we heard came from Punk here himself.
Err… well… I might have gasped a bit when I saw her…
But it was clearly a lady of smaller stature that screamed and not a man!
I know for a fact that Sakkilian males tend to be a lot more feminine compared to males of other species. Verily, I have firsthand experience of the noises he makes and the scream would fit him.
Than what about the blood he was trying to hide! See, right there were he was sitting! Blood!
Blood?

You take a closer look and the assistant is right. There is some blood on the floor carpet.

Hmm… it’s still damp so it can’t have been here for long… and it looks like someone tried to scrub it off from the carped but failed? It can’t be from Isabella, it’s too old for that nor does she have any wounds on her.
Then why is there blood in here?

>Go look through the ajar door to see what’s in there.
There’s a bunch of paintings supply, a blank canvas, a bunch of lights and some kind of sofa / bed hybrid. You’re going to guess that this would indeed be Isabella’s private studio.
>Take in the scene before you barge in.
A bit too late for that, you already barged in as soon as you heard the scream, but you still need to take in your surroundings before you can continue. Looking around you see the hallmarks of most office spaces, which is to say a desk with the usual things on it, shelves filled with either office or decorative oriented objects, a computer that’s currently off, a sofa, table and some nice chairs for more leisure conversations, as well as one of those boxes you saw before, the one where Isabella stored the paintings. The walls around the office that doesn’t have shelves on them is filled to the brim with paintings, flowers and weird looking… tabards? Is that the right word? Curtain, maybe? Whatever they are they are hung as to hide away the less visual pleasing objects of the room, like the electrical sockets, the entrance for the cleaning bot and a few access panels for the doors and the like. There’s also a tail sticking out from around the desk… wait… tail?

Kaktus 2020/01/31(Fri)12:20 No. 955107 ID: 1301e8
File 158050201680.png - (54.75KB , 700x550 , 43.png )

Behind the desk, not far from where Isabella fell over, you find a Serpent lying unconscious in a heap. It’s clearly not a position someone would lie in voluntarily, so you can only assume someone put them like that there. They also got a nasty wound on the top of their head, explaining where the blood came from, though it doesn’t explain why it is bandaged. Wait, don’t you know this person? You’re sure you’ve seen them somewhere before.

Oh tides, he isn’t dead, is he!?
They are clearly breathing. Can’t you see their chest moving?
I can’t even see him from here! How could I even be able to tell?
What is another serpent even doing here!?
That’s what we’re trying to find out… now, you’re sure you didn’t let anyone else in here?
I already told you, I didn’t let anyone into my boss office while she was away.
Yet, here someone is?
T-they must have… err… come in from somewhere else.

And now we have another victim. This is getting a bit silly…

>>955107
That's Drizu Axio! He's wearing the same scarf you saw in that photo with his husband. Did he figure out why you came asking questions, and went to the museum to confront Isabella? Hmm, I don't think it makes sense for Isabella to have assaulted him. She wouldn't have brought Punk into her office with Drizu hidden behind the desk. Whoever did it clearly regretted it, though, and administered first aid. Except... they didn't call for a medical team, and they hid him back there as if to hide the deed. That only makes sense if Drizu either has no idea who did it, or has some reason to hide either the assailant's identity or his presence here to begin with. There is a medical team on the way along with the peacekeepers, right?

That blood was up against something rectangular. Hmm... maybe a rectangular object was the weapon used to assault Drizu? See if you can find something rectangular in the room that has blood on it. Just don't disturb the crime scene. Yes, this is a crime scene now, despite it being simple assault.

At this point I think the main suspect is the guard. Nobody else had the opportunity to do it, according to her own story.
I think this is what happened: Drizu came in, angry about someone asking about TGGTW, and demanded to see Isabella. The guard wasn't happy about this, got into an argument with him, he stormed into her office and started making threats or something, then the guard knocked him out, immediately freaked out and administered first aid while hiding evidence, and was hoping Isabella would come back to help her pacify Drizu once he woke up.

>>955106
>blood
The unique shape of that blood suggests that something was in that spot and was moved.

Is there anything in the room that has blood on the bottom of one of the corners?

>>955107
>another Serpent
>Wait, don’t you know this person? You’re sure you’ve seen them somewhere before.
That’s because you have seen him before. He’s in a picture next to Tezo here: >>938496 . I think it’s safe to say that this is Drizu Axio.

But that does raise the question of why he’s here?

>T-they must have…err…come in from somewhere else.
Is there a vent somewhere in the room? He could’ve come in through there if he’s thin enough and the vent is big enough.

>assistant has a mouth
You might want to tell her that you’ve been think about getting a mouth and ask if there’s anything you should know before you get one.

But save it for after you’ve figured out what’s going on here.

The assistant who accused punk did it. Punk was stationary and being observed this entire time, it's not possible they simultaneously shoved someone under a desk. Isabella fainted on seeing the body, she didn't do it unless she's a brilliant actor. The assistant immediately assumed foul play, asks if they're dead without even seeing the body, and is the only possible explanation for how Drizu got there at all.

Check everything concealed by curtains as well as the storage box for bloodstains.

what floor are you all on? Because I'm just wondering if it's possible for someone to come in through a window or up a fire escape or something.

Also possible: the assistant isn't lying, and he arrived when Isabella was there, not when she was absent. After all, the assistant said "I didn’t let anyone into my boss office while she was away." That would mean Isabella did it, and just left him there while Punk did his modeling gig.
Heck, the "chaining him down" comment could be that she was planning to finish off Drizu then frame Punk for it. Problem is she passed out from drinking too much before she could go any further. Maybe Drizu's current state is WHY she was drinking so much?

Hmm, thinking about it, Isabella could have a potential motive. If Drizu came here and demanded she drop the award ceremony for TGGTW, she could have gotten quite upset.

If she didn’t let anyone in while Isabella was away, then what if the assistant was away and Isabella was in the office?

Did the assistant leave her desk at some point when Isabella was in her office? That could’ve been enough time for Drizu to come in the office without the assistant noticing.

But then that would imply that Isabella is the one that attacked Drizu, since in that situation, they would’ve been the only people in the room. And that would further imply that the reason Isabella is drunk is because she was attempting to calm her nerves after what she did.

>>955107
>T-they must have…err…come in from somewhere else.
Why does the assistant sound nervous? Is it possible she knows something and isn’t telling us? Or is it possible she doesn’t want to admit that someone got past her and into her boss’ office without her knowing about it?

>>955106
There was something that the blood spilled on that was removed. Blood doesn't pool like that.

>>955107
That bandage on Drizu's head looks like it's kinda on the back of his head. Someone hit him from behind.

It could've been someone in the room that he wasn't aware of or he was turning to leave the room and whoever he was talking to hit him in the back of the head.

>>955236
It seems like until one or both of them wake up, we won't be able to get anymore clues.

Kaktus 2020/02/03(Mon)15:07 No. 955355 ID: 1301e8
File 158077122845.png - (85.50KB , 700x550 , 44.png )

>Is there a vent somewhere in the room? He could’ve come in through there if he’s thin enough and the vent is big enough.
There are several vents in most room around the station, but they are designed to be small enough to only let air in and nothing else, as a vent is supposed to do. The only other vent like entrance is the opening for the cleaning bot, but that’s also small enough that a child wouldn’t even fit in there.
>What floor are you all on? I'm just wondering if it's possible for someone to come in through a window or up a fire escape or something.
There aren’t any windows in either of the rooms and this building only has one floor. Of course, being on a space station renders floors moot anyway, as you would still be on “ground level” on the second floor.

>That's Drizu Axio! He's wearing the same scarf you saw in that photo with his husband.
So that’s the artist Tezo’s mate? That means that this is probably connected with your visit to him earlier today and the paintings he probably donated here.
>That bandage on Drizu's head looks like it's kinda on the back of his head. Someone hit him from behind.
...or from above? Hmm… both Isabella and the assistant are rather short… but they would probably need to take him by surprise as well…
>Whoever did it clearly regretted it, though, and administered first aid. Except... they didn't call for a medical team, and they hid him back there as if to hide the deed.
In conclusion, they didn’t want to kill him… or maybe even harm him, but they didn’t want to be caught or raise any kind of alarm either. Then what was the motive? Cui bono?

>The assistant who accused punk did it.
But why? Did he force his way in and she knocked him out? Why didn’t she just call security? Verily, you can’t jump to conclusions just yet. She’s clearly not telling you everything, but other than that…
>Isabella did it, and just left him there while Punk did his modeling gig.
...and she just happened to faint right in front of the body? That doesn’t seem very likely either… but just as you can’t jump to conclusions of who did it, you can’t dismiss her out of hand either. Ergo, you need more information.


>Why does the assistant sound nervous? Is it possible she knows something and isn’t telling us?
Excuse me, but you seem a bit nervous.
Huh? Of course I’m nervous! We just found someone unconscious in my boss office!
Of course…
>Did the assistant leave her desk at some point when Isabella was in her office?
I’ve been at my desk for most of the day, sans a coffee break or two.
So someone might have been able to sneak into the office while you were away?
No, the door has been locked. Only Isabella’s presence or a command from the terminal on my desk can open the door. And before you ask, only me, Isabella and the IT guys knows the passcode for the lock, and those guys never leave their office on the other side of the building.
So you don’t know how Drizu managed to get into the office?
No I don’t. In fact, I’ve never even seen Mr. Axio before. I have no idea who he is and what he is doing here.
Uh huh?
>The assistant immediately assumed foul play, asks if they're dead without even seeing the body, and is the only possible explanation for how Drizu got there at all.
Let me get this straight. You never saw Drizu Axio before this nor did you ever leave your post outside the door?
That is correct.
…yet you knew his last name?
…h-huh? But I- didn’t you say his name earlier?
I only said his first name, not his last. You were also awfully quick to assume foul play when we found him.
O-of course! He was lying on the floor!
In fact, you were so quick to observe him that you managed to correctly state his gender even before I did, all the while being unable to see him at all.
B-b-but… y-you said…
You were the first to speak when we found him, before I even managed to see anything more than a large heap of coils. Verily, you already knew who he was, didn’t you?
I di-
You knew his name and gender all the while, on your own admission, being the only one who could let him inside the office. Ergo, you have been lying to me. Tell me the truth! NOW!
A-alright, alright! I admit it! I let him in! But I didn’t attack him!
…you did act surprised when we found him, yes… but why did you let him in?
I gave me a full cred stick, alright? He told me to unlock the door, go away for ten minutes so he could grab something inside and then come back. The boss wasn’t going to be around for hours so I thought… w-why not?
Credits? You let him inside because he paid you?
Well… err… he also gave me a donation of… y-you know…?
…you had intercourse with him?
He’s a Class: A! I can’t let a chance like that go away!
Uh huh…

>You might want to tell her that you’ve been thinking about getting a mouth and ask if there’s anything you should know before you get one.
Is this really the time to ask that?
I might not get another chance.
…don’t rush things. If the first thing you do is start sucking down eggs you’ll choke to death.
I’ll keep that in mind.