nice poem.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/23(Wed)20:06 No. 197926 ID: 31cbfc
File 127734876449.png - (3.18KB , 512x512 , 123.png )

All three arrive at the mining town of Sern. Lights illuminate the dwellings carved in rock, and guards pace at the upper levels, making sure this night will be as peaceful as others.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/23(Wed)20:15 No. 197930 ID: 31cbfc
File 127734930773.png - (4.31KB , 256x768 , 124.png )

auto-check

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/23(Wed)21:47 No. 197963 ID: 31cbfc
File 12773548397.png - (3.60KB , 512x512 , 125.png )

Zariene, Asgeria and Kanes enter the inn. The beastfolk owner looks up at them briefly, then returns to the boring job of cleaning and checking things.
>This place looks quite empty. All merchants staying here on their way to Airan are probably upstairs this late...
Asgeria:
"I'm beat. Hope there's enough room for us left."

>>197963
Everybody in one room, take turns keeping watch. Can't be too careful.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/23(Wed)22:13 No. 197969 ID: 31cbfc
File 127735639478.png - (3.77KB , 512x512 , 126.png )

"If you can cram up in one room, sure because that's all I have left. Will be one for the room and three for food for ye all."

>>197969
must avoid making lesbianism jokes
must avoid making lesbianism jokes
must avoid making lesbianism jokes
aargh

TRHEESOMES!

ask if there is a couch in the rooms.

>>197963
sure, we've got the cash.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/23(Wed)22:19 No. 197973 ID: 31cbfc
File 127735674244.png - (3.11KB , 512x512 , 127.png )

>>197970
>I HEARD THAT.

>>197973
ignore him. maybe see if you can get some info from the innkeeper. Any troops coming through or just odd happenings.

>>197973
I'm sorry I can't help it you're just all so attractive can you blame an orb for liking what he sees also you should try getting a longer skirt

>>197980
how exactly did we end up with that viewpoint anyway?.....

>>197984
Hey, don't look a gift horse in the mouth...

But seriously: A long, flowing skirt, so long as you have practice fighting in it, might be able to obscure your footwork. Worth a shot.

Long... flowing... help I'm trapped in this little blue ball with a bunch of Victorian gentlemen.

Dress to kill, Z. Dress to kill.

>>197994
About half of swordplay is below the belt, so I was just thinking that obscuring that was a good idea.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/23(Wed)23:26 No. 198012 ID: 31cbfc
File 127736080677.png - (3.91KB , 512x512 , 128.png )

>Sheeeeesh, it's not like I never had to share a place with Asgie. I'll make sure to throw you in a bag and leave ya with Kanes beforehand, though.
Innkeeper:
"Just make sure you aren't, well... too noisy, missy."
>WHAT! Him too! Fuck all men to hell.
Zariene:
"I assure you it'll be JUST FINE."
4 coins paid.
Innkeeper:
"Upstairs, right side, last one."

>>198012

>> Fuck all men to hell.
>> claims not to be a lesbian

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/23(Wed)23:36 No. 198015 ID: 31cbfc
File 127736139667.png - (2.08KB , 512x512 , 129.png )

>>198013
Zariene:
"Kanes, could you please keep this fuckball away from me for a while?"

god dammit, why is everyone being an ass?

just had to get that out, seriously though. why is everyone in here taking it too far, a joke now and then is fine but being serious about it and annoying people is just stupid.

>>198015
hey now we're just trying to help D:

>>198018
well maybe a time out will make you think twice before you make a crude joke.

>>198021
Crude joke!? Come on, now, I was only advising her that if she continues to wear such a short skirt, we might see things she doesn't want us to! And I made no joke, I was only referring to the situation as being one that might end up causing them! D:

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)00:31 No. 198045 ID: 31cbfc
File 127736469531.png - (3.51KB , 512x512 , 130.png )

>Sheesh... I figure that you guys probably never had much female company in your existence?

>>198045
Look here now we are apparently going into the goddramed mountains and last time I checked it's a bit chilly there so all I did was suggest some thicker clothes and better coverage so she wouldn't be flashing us or the enemy so the next time you want to spout out some 'lol virgins' comment you can just stuff it okay argh argh argh this is what I get for trying to look out for my host

depends, do you mean company or 'company' the first, plenty. the second, we are a magic ball, pretty sure we are incapable of having 'company'. it's mostly some voices in here not knowing when to just shut up.

All we did was innocently ask if they were lesbians...

>>198052
that question is never innocent, EVER.

Suggestion 2010/06/24(Thu)01:06 No. 198055 ID: 31cbfc
File 127736677612.png - (2.74KB , 512x512 , 131.png )

>>198054
>At least some of you get it.

>>198055
I never asked that

ever

don't go around grouping us as one solid entity man

we have arguments and disagree and fight and bitch at one another all the time

we are the least unified bunch of spiritual advisors you'll find so don't insult all of us because a few of us could still their damn tongues

d to apologize to that fiery yong woman asap so if you could help us out with that it'd be most kind of you

thanks, i like to think of myself as the voice of "just get on with it already!" so this rest stop has me all riled up.

>>198055

So who are the White Citadel exactly? What is their powerbase? Why are they strong enough to force the Mad Emperor to a diplomatic solution?

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)03:13 No. 198087 ID: 31cbfc
File 127737443314.png - (2.15KB , 128x128 , 132.png )

>So... I offered to do guard duty seeing as it's the most safe decision. I probably won't have a lot to do here... I miss my job. Trying to control electricity to fuel a machine capable of simple logic is something amazing. It's nowhere near what White Citadel utilizes, and Outcasts mastered but it's a very interesting field of science. Perhaps someday we will create sentient machines. Ones capable of emotion maybe... But there must be a reason why the Citadel is keeping it secret. Perhaps there have been tragedies related to its usage in the past. But as of now, it's our only hope, as well as the intel I'm going to provide.
>Zariene accepted your apology, by the way.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)03:14 No. 198088 ID: 31cbfc
File 127737448690.png - (4.34KB , 512x512 , 133.png )

size

>Zariene accepted your apology, by the way.
:D

That's good news!

Also, the main reason people hide tech is to keep others from getting it or because they fear its misuse.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)03:21 No. 198091 ID: 31cbfc
File 127737491243.png - (2.67KB , 512x512 , 134.png )

>I figured as much. Say, are you capable of interpreting logic?

>>198091
Each one of us is about as mentally capable as a human being.

Roughly. Each of us know some things others don't. Like I said, we aren't an entity, we are a group of individuals. Roommates.

>>198091
WOAHHEYTHATSNEW

Appaerently we can look out from ourselves! Normally, we see from fixed points near the holder. So... you could like hold us out around a corner and we could see for you.

Awesome.

>>198093

So the White Citadel has complete mastery of both magic and technology, then? How big are they? What species dominates their government?

And, your training was as a programmer? I'm surprised you survived that crash, if you weren't a trained pilot. Or did you get pilot training too, somewhere?

>>198091

What are we looking at here, the room?

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)03:37 No. 198101 ID: 31cbfc
File 127737584130.png - (2.64KB , 512x512 , 135.png )

>You have recognized me perfectly so far, meaning we're speaking on at least an equal scientific level. You see, I'm trying to solve the problem of input in logical machines, or at least the current, mechanical - or as it's called, clockwork series. One of them was on board of the aircraft I arrived in, shame it didn't stand the impact - it was one I constructed myself to help me navigate at extreme speeds.
>So, we have machines that control others, allowing indirect control of a whole, big device like a factory line - but in order for them to work, we need to give them input. As of now, we have people working on the position of operating them based on written instructions... but it's too inefficient. If you are on higher level, is it possible to share the knowledge of how to effectively feed the machine the information it needs, and not have the input format depend on the purpose of the device?

>>198101
That's a lotta technobabble.

Can you dumb it down a touch?

>>198102

It's not technobabble, it's the classic input problem for control systems. Give me a second.

>>198103
Ah. See, here's an expert.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)03:54 No. 198111 ID: 31cbfc
File 127737688355.png - (3.17KB , 512x512 , 136.png )

>Look, as of now we write down the instructions to the operator on a blackboard, number one. Then, he inputs the exact sequence, which sets the logic unit, that's two, into initial position. Next, the logic unit checks if there's anything on the line below it, and operates the robotic arm, three, on the product.
>But the technical limitations are that first, you need the exact model of input console, arm, sensors, and central processing unit to form this machine. Second, we have no way of telling it once to do it, then let it remember it and decide its actions depending on the product type instead - making you input the info only once for one production line.
>Last, it does not recover from failure. We have to watch it all the time, it cannot tell whether the arm is in the right position - and if we made it do so, it would require manufacturing the processing unit with the arm position check in mind.

>>198101

Ok. You're using what we call Babbage engines or analytical engines, I take it. It's outdated knowledge for us, so I'm not surprised you confused the other guy just now. There are several major innovations between a clockwork computer and what most of us are trained to use.

Analytical engines, analog computers, and early digital computer all used a system based on punch cards. The punch cards would hold the instructions, parsed as either binary machine readable code or as a high level code that was easy to program in, which would be fed into a hopper, which fed the cards sequentially to a reader based on a loom which would then feed the commands to the rest of the machine.

You guys have electricity so this is easier. Basically, the reader has a set of pins arranged opposite each other. As the card passes between them, only the pins over punched parts of the card will connect and complete a circuit.

>>198111

If the tolerances on the arm are good enough then you should be able to assume it's always in the programmed position. Stepper motors are robust enough to let you get away with that, if you're familiar with them.

If stepper motors haven't been invented or you don't have confidence in the ones available, or if you can't afford any mistakes in the arm's control system then you'll need a way to track where the arm is. Servomechanisms are required then, which usually use a potentiometer to gauge where the rotor is and tell the logic system so that it can correct for any mistakes.

Another popular way to gauge the system's position is to use photometers, a lamp, and a wheel mounted to the axle. The wheel has a design a bit like a zoetrop, so that as it moves it alternately blocks the light or lets it hit the photometer. You then have the logic system count the number of flashes as the wheel turns and you can calculate where the wheel is.

>>198116
Or you can abuse the arm's fixed range of motion to have it reset to one end, then move back to the proper position.
If you can manufacture a decent spiral-shaped hole in a gear then you can have that move in lock-step with the arm and use a pin on a pivot to determine the arm's location via the pin's distance from center.

Or we could just teach you how to construct stepper motors and other nifty gadgets.

Anyway, for now just lay out the mechanics and we'll try solving your problems.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)04:20 No. 198124 ID: 31cbfc
File 127737840364.png - (3.27KB , 512x512 , 137.png )

>>198113
>We have electric power, but we're still working on a way to control it directly instead of converting it to mechanical force. It would miniaturize the processing unit much easier.
>So you're suggesting we build another unit that translates universal input into something that goes into every machine?
>But, how do we let it know what does this machine do, and how to 'drive' it?

 

decided to embed fitting BGM's

 

>>198124

If you want a totally universal system, you're going to have to write an algorithm that is capable of adjusting the generic design pattern of the product for the limits of the arms and sensors, then specify those limits right at the start of the program.

To handle the first technical limit, it would be simpler to standardize the arm, sensor, and CPU designs and create the algorithms specifying the product designs with those limits in mind.

For the second limit you just need a set of instruction cards that can be reused each time you want to run the arm for a specific product. Putting the cards in a loop would do the trick.

We already talked a little about solving the third problem. Tight tolerances and the use of stepper motors or servo motors in the arms will let you surmount most of the obvious points of failure.

This video is about the loom design I mentioned earlier. Very clever, very easy to adapt to your own needs.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)05:43 No. 198142 ID: 31cbfc
File 127738338593.png - (2.69KB , 512x512 , 138.png )

>So, I thought about it for a while. Let's say we use holed cards, or as I'd prefer for longer data - tapes. The CPU is merely used to pass the data around and do abstract mathematical calculations. There's a "memory" which stores numbers used only for the operation. Then, CPU reads a "master" program from an internal card/tape, to see what kind of a device we're dealing with, and executes the input we give it - this also solves the problem of compatibility, if the master program can check it first.
>That's why every device should provide its identification number first - making it a part of the input. Then again, we have possibility of more memory needed than provided - we can always add another module - and it can also be a device. We have output: light tube monitors , lights, and integer counters. These can also identify themselves and let CPU do the job. What executes the work is also a device, working autonomously but returning its status and taking in coded instructions so the CPU can control it - actually being a lower level logic machine... wait.
>Since everything, including readers, processors, memory modules, mechanical devices, output and the likes can be controlled and identified as a device... Even data itself. We could build a machine inside a machine. We could... simulate things.
>Also, could one "computer" perhaps take input from another one's output, and the other way? How did such a concept work out for you, if ever?

>>198142

Ticker-tape is more delicate than cards. You'll run into problems with it wearing out with repeated use. Magnetic tape is more durable, but even it experiences durability problems, and it has its own special requirements for being written to or read from.

Punch cards are a compromise solution. They're durable enough that they'll last a long time, and they're portable and easy to work with with just an awl and your brain.

What you've just described is what we call a "Turing machine" or a universal computer. It can be set to do anything you're clever enough to program it to do, including emulating another machine environment. Turing machines are very versatile, but they're more expensive and more machine than you need for a manufacturing line usually.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)06:04 No. 198145 ID: 31cbfc
File 127738469834.png - (3.10KB , 512x512 , 139.png )

>>198144
>This... this is exactly what I'm trying to create. A machine capable of doing things on its own.
>You say, anything... So, other machines inside it... Communication...
>Everything is possible. Millions of small variables, influencing each other, creating... No...
>No. This isn't real.
Kanes drops his pencil and stares blankly into the distance.
>We all may as well be... And inside yet another one... Within another...

All this techno talk is making me thirsty. Be back in a moment.

>>198145
woah dude calm down! WOAH!

>>198145

Computers that talk to other computers are used to make networks of computers, all talking and sharing information, and being put to various uses by people. World-wide research efforts, the easy trade of data, business conferencing, just-in-time inventory management, interfaces for chatting with strangers about all manner of topics, games, and more.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)06:18 No. 198151 ID: 31cbfc
File 127738550830.png - (2.98KB , 512x512 , 140.png )

>...And how do you know we aren't machines? Simulated within another one? That may itself be a simulation?

>Does reality even exist?

>>198151

A better question is, do you have the tools to test the nature of reality?

Repeat after me. I think, therefore I am. It sounds simple, but it means a lot. You can think, and so long as you can do that, you are you. The world is as you see, hear, touch, taste and smell it. Don't you worry over whether it's all a simulation, that's inconsequential. Right now you have these two young ladies to watch over and help.
Focus on the here, the now, the immediate.

I'm an orb sitting on your desk that can only glow and make purdy piccurs or words in your head, and I'm not having an existential crisis.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)06:31 No. 198154 ID: 31cbfc
File 127738626210.png - (7.28KB , 512x512 , 141.png )

>>198153
>You're right about this one. I'll get back to wondering about reality when there will be a certain one to speak of.
>For now, if we don't stop the emperor, we're going to be obedient, controlled machines regardless of what we are now.

>>198154

That's the spirit! Carpe diem quam minime credula postero!

>>198154
See? Wisdom over intellect, any day!

>>198154
Sounds like you're getting a little bit of culture shock from being exposed to advanced technological concepts.

You should know that complete simulation of a virtual reality is very very difficult. It requires immense processing power to make a realistic world, and then there are all sorts of glitches that can happen due to human error involved in the programming. You'd have noticed some very obvious problems in reality by now, if this were a simulation.

I'm not going to mention that his world runs on game mechanics, I think he'd explode or something.

>>198165
I think that's just an abstraction for our benefit. The world doesn't ACTUALLY work that way.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)07:39 No. 198183 ID: 31cbfc
File 127739034044.png - (4.07KB , 512x512 , 142.png )

>Such a small thing, smarter than me. Someone had a sense of humor all right.
He pokes t͢h́̀͘e o͟҉̷͟r̡͝b̶̢͠͠҉... your perception seemed strange for a moment.

>>198183
Oy, don't poke us like that. Our visuals are going wonky, computer-like.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)07:49 No. 198189 ID: 31cbfc
File 127739097244.png - (3.47KB , 512x512 , 143.png )

>>198188
Oh, kay. I don't know why though, you are usually fine. So, magical orbs do get tired as well, eh?

>>198189

The orb, so far as I know, is a magical construct. The tiling problem with the visuals just now suggests that you managed to hit the part of the orb responsible for image processing, that's all. Do you have any contaminants on your hands?

Suggestion 2010/06/24(Thu)08:06 No. 198198 ID: a594b9
File 127739200798.png - (1.49KB , 325x311 , dim.png )

>>198189
I... guess? Maybe it's all the glowing we're doing. Gonna turn that off.

(I totally didn't post that as a new thread no sir)

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)08:28 No. 198206 ID: 31cbfc
File 127739328233.png - (2.08KB , 512x512 , 144.png )

>You know... don't try it now, but next time in battle could you try flashing really bright to blind the enemies? They may find it harder to dodge with barely any vision.

Yes, next time. Are flash-bangs sold in your home nation?

actually what restrictions are there for buying weapons in your homeland

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)08:59 No. 198220 ID: 31cbfc
File 127739514644.png - (2.25KB , 512x512 , 145.png )

>We use flashes and smokes, naturally. Alongside legged tanks, and pressure based power armor... no other modern weaponry that I know of.
>We had quite a free hand at that until lately. Now, a totalitarian regime has emerged, not only the currency is controlled but trading is restricted. Weapons were first to be banned alongside communication devices, to damage the public's vigilancy. Myself, I still had access to a lot of things but they took away my job as a scientist by halting any interest in productive research whatsoever, focusing on weapons... weapons and destruction only.
>Pure irony... the Independent State Of Zein was formed as an alternative to the Outcasts, and we ended up destroying them and becoming what they turned into at one point.

Check stats page

>>198239
Look at: >>197930

>>198220
You guys have power armor and tanks, but no real computers? That's interesting. That also means that production is going to be quite slow.

What I want to know is how they solved the control and power supply issues with power armor without universal machines. General Electric tried to do it about 50 years ago with their Hardiman designs and found the control systems were neigh-unworkable with the computers of their era. And the power supply requirements! The Hardiman was designed to work from mains power.

Even today's modern exoskeleton designs, like the Raytheon Sarcos designs, need a gasoline combustion engine as a power plant to run off-grid. Although, they do get a full day's endurance from it.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)10:36 No. 198252 ID: 31cbfc
File 127740098275.png - (4.20KB , 256x768 , 146.png )

>>198239
sheet updated

>>198244
>We were left in the steam age for a great amount of time, oil and electricity have been only recently discovered as useful energy sources.
After mumbling that, Kanes yawns and passes out on the table, with the Orb in his hand.

>>198252
I guess we get to keep watch instead.

[keep visuals open, alert us if suspicious noises occur or if someone tries to open the door]

>>198252

Wow, we jumped to 78% trust with him.

But look at the other two...

No more taking crude jokes too far, people.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)10:55 No. 198259 ID: 31cbfc
File 12774021394.png - (5.86KB , 512x512 , 147.png )

[...]
The door to the room opens letting in sunlight from the window, as an inn servant wakes up people for breakfast in the morning.
Zariene and Asgeria get up, pretty surprised as they somehow ended up cuddled to each other in sleep. Kanes puts the Orb on his neck and stretches, trying to ignore what's going on at the bed next to him.
Zariene:
"Kanes, could you go down first? We need to get dressed... oh, and take that orb too before it starts acting like an ass again."

>>198259
What? People move when they sleep, there's nothing weird about that.

Suggestion 2010/06/24(Thu)11:11 No. 198265 ID: 732129
File 127740309835.png - (55.13KB , 744x524 , 744px-Spectre_Terahertz_svg.png )

Let's try this...

[Shift Orb-Vision (TM) up to the terahertz range!]

>>198265
are you trying to turn on infrared?

>>198273

Yes! Night vision is awesome.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)11:29 No. 198275 ID: 31cbfc
File 127740417663.png - (3.70KB , 512x512 , 148.png )

>>198265
You fail. The only special capability of the orb is blue-tinted night vision.

>>198260
>You guys can't figure why was she actually pissed off? I mean, that hit her hard almost instantly... Meh. It's none of my business, actually. You'd better stay out as well.
>Downstairs, shall we? Hell, this place has no handrails on the stairways. I wonder how many drunkards already these stairs have on their record? They should be hired as a hitman!

Oh, and it doesn't operate on infrared.

 

bgm

>>198275

And fox-folk can tell by smell, right?

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)11:47 No. 198291 ID: 31cbfc
File 127740525017.png - (4.80KB , 512x512 , 149.png )

>>198280
>Nope, he actually had a dirty mind... or some bad experience with other customers.
[...]
Zariene:
"But you WILL admit that I scared him straight, right? I mean..."
Kanes:
"Sure, whatever."
Asgeria:
"Remember kids, we're outta this hole in a half. You'd better eat instead of talking or I'll leave you two behind."

>>198291

We used to use an elaborate system of secret handshakes, polite innuendo, earrings, and scarves to tell in polite society.

That got dumb quick though, and society changed enough so that people could be who they want to be, in most places.

>>198291
I thought she was just telling us not to say anything about her waking up like that. So I just said it's normal. Trying to rationalize it.

ANYWAY uh... better just eat quickly.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)12:35 No. 198326 ID: 31cbfc
File 127740810517.png - (1.79KB , 128x128 , 150.png )

>>198295
>>198310
>Umm, I thought you'd figure she's bragging on about the encounter yesterday.
>About the other thing... i just told you it's their business, don't disappoint me.

>>198326
We understand. Well, I do anyway.

me too. well finish breakfast and let's get going, maybe kick some more ass.

>>198326

So, what do your shells use for propellant? Are the bullets jacketed? Think you're up to doing a little reloading?

If you are, we better work out a simple shell-catcher.

Consider that the emulation of a machine by another machine, is still a machine. In fact most of the time it has shown that the most efficient way to emulate a machine is simply to build the machine without emulation. The way I see it fiction is reality, just a different interpretation of it. The fiction is the machine, and the reality is the machine emulated, a machine in both cases.

Oh wait... wait... I can see...

I can see up your nose!!

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)14:03 No. 198367 ID: 31cbfc
File 127741342320.png - (2.23KB , 512x512 , 151.png )

>>198331
>Well said, sir.

They resupply their FOOD rations by one additional day for an extra coin, and set out north to the mountain pass.

>>198339
>Normal powder rounds, shelled. Most likely not much different from what you know. They're common .45 rounds, 12 per clip. My guns are semi-auto if it helps too. I couldn't get my hands on a silencer before running away.

 

bgm

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)14:12 No. 198371 ID: 31cbfc
File 127741396162.png - (3.42KB , 512x512 , 152.png )

The canyon follows a pretty straight line for a while, then curves to the left. There's no rock wall surrounding the boundary on the right anymore at that point, though the way's wide enough to safely cross.

>>198367

Sorry, I should have been more specific. Smokeless powder or black powder? Either would work in a semi-auto weapon, but black powder shells would require a thorough cleaning after each magazine. So would unjacketed bullets for that matter. Lead fouling is no laughing matter.

Anyway, reloading your shells seems like a reasonable bet.

>>198371
Watch out. This is an awesome spot for an ambush.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)14:28 No. 198388 ID: 31cbfc
File 127741489449.png - (4.10KB , 512x512 , 153.png )

>No, smokeless. Black isn't safe enough as you said, it's used only in explosives and mounted guns.
>If I get my hands on any good quality powder around here, I'll use it. Shells and rounds themselves won't be a problem, I'm sure I could find a craftsman capable of replicating them from the original.

As you get past the corner, you see a hanging bridge... or what's left of it. Something clearly cut it in half, and it must have been recently because somebody would've mentioned it at the town.

>>198388
Oh boy, this sucks. Any way around it? I don't suppose the hanging pieces of the bridge form a crude ladder down to the floor...?

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)14:47 No. 198410 ID: 31cbfc
File 127741606576.png - (2.94KB , 512x512 , 154.png )

>>198400
Actually, they do. By its length, it's a one-way though.

Drop down?

>>198410

Yes, drop down! You can continue to the left on the ground floor, maybe?

>>198410
It's not like we have much of a choice.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)15:32 No. 198434 ID: 31cbfc
File 127741875141.png - (3.25KB , 512x512 , 155.png )

>>198421
Nope. But there's things to explore to the right.

The three descend...

*THUD*
The ground shakes a little.

Zariene:
"What was that?"

*THUD*
*THUD*

Kanes:
"I'm not hearing things, am I? Something heavy is coming this way!"

Asgeria:
"Better be prepared for anything!"

weapons out, be ready to hide behind the rock.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)16:01 No. 198448 ID: 31cbfc
File 127742049922.png - (4.99KB , 512x512 , 156.png )

>I'm afraid there's nowhere to hide from if my predictions are right... this will be tough.

A four-legged armed machine approaches, followed by two soldiers with tranquilizer rifles!

Kanes:
"Hey! Who let you use the Crab Tank, scumbags? And what the FUCK are Zeinian troops doing as far as here? Trigger itchy for the war already, assholes?"

Pilot:
"Wish I knew myself. Why don't you ask the Emperor, after we take you to him?
But first come your friends, they're too major a witness to spare."

Kanes:
"You... You just threatened Zariene and Asgie, didn't you?
Such a mistake..."

>>198448
Oh yes. There will be blood. Better take out those tranq guys before they get any shots off.

everyone get behind cover, an open fight against other guns is insane. only hope is to kill the pilot and force the others into melee range.

 

bgm

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)16:34 No. 198468 ID: 31cbfc
File 127742246696.png - (3.82KB , 512x512 , 157.png )

"...WILL BE YOUR FUCKING LAST!"

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)16:41 No. 198471 ID: 31cbfc
File 127742288976.png - (13.15KB , 512x512 , 158.png )

(VEHICLE)CRABTANK: HP 100 / SPD 2 / Leg Attack L8 / [F] Flamethrower 1d20 - 2 TURNS

SOLDIER x3: HP 30 / SPD 4 / Ranged L5 1d20 / Close L5

INSIDE VEHICLE MOD +2 evade

Suggest an action for Zariene.

uhm...forward two squares?

>>198472
No reason to go on the defensive here aside from not getting hit by a flamethrower. Forward 3, left 1. Next turn we can hit that guy in the back.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)17:51 No. 198522 ID: 31cbfc
File 127742711722.png - (13.15KB , 512x512 , 159.png )

rolled 5 = 5

---

SOLDIER #1 shoots at Zariene!

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)17:59 No. 198526 ID: 31cbfc
File 127742759640.png - (3.07KB , 512x512 , 160.png )

rolled 19 = 19

---

>>198522
She's hit!
Stamina cost doubled for next turn!

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)18:06 No. 198529 ID: 31cbfc
File 127742797933.png - (13.17KB , 512x512 , 161.png )

rolled 2 = 2

---

SOLDIER #3 moves forward and shoots at Kanes!

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)18:08 No. 198530 ID: 31cbfc
File 127742813448.png - (12.82KB , 512x512 , 162.png )

He misses such a clean shot!

>>198526
GRAH. I thought they'd have a longer range than that. We could've just stood still and he would've had to run up to us. Like that other guy just did.

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/24(Thu)18:12 No. 198534 ID: 31cbfc
File 12774283377.png - (13.04KB , 512x512 , 163.png )

SOLDIER #2 commands CRABTANK to ready its flamethrower!

2 turns left!

(who's turn is it?)

What guy above said
and if only we could Shine hard enough to blind or distract

>>198597
Kanes can still use us as a thrown weapon...we aren't delicate, are we?

Suggestion 2010/06/25(Fri)01:45 No. 198701 ID: 31cbfc
File 127745550014.png - (18.49KB , 512x512 , 164.png )

Suggest an action for Kanes.

Suggestion 2010/06/25(Fri)01:48 No. 198702 ID: 3778d2
File 127745573729.jpg - (100.92KB , 600x600 , sun.jpg )

hold us aloft. [SOLAR FLARE!]

[if that wont work then just shoot the guy right in front of you.]

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/25(Fri)02:05 No. 198706 ID: 31cbfc
File 127745675691.png - (23.14KB , 512x512 , 165.png )

rolled 9 = 9

---

Kanes holds up the orb with his left hand as it emits a blinding flash, immobilizing the enemy for a turn!

Then he shoots at SOLDIER #3!

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/25(Fri)02:10 No. 198707 ID: 31cbfc
File 127745701033.png - (2.17KB , 512x512 , 166.png )

rolled 36 = 36

---

He's hit right in the gut!

Suggestion 2010/06/25(Fri)02:15 No. 198708 ID: 31cbfc
File 127745733736.png - (13.00KB , 512x512 , 167.png )

SOLDIER #3 dies on the spot!

Suggest an action for Asgeria.

>>198708
2 forward 1 left.

>>198731
no, 1 right.

i mean, 2 forward, 1 rigt.

>>198772
>Selection glow is our color
:3c

Yes that seems about right

>>198803
Actually, blue is for attack range but fine, I'll use red for that from now on.

color coding: yellow-movement, red-attack orange-area effect, blue-orb

ThatFuckingFeline!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/25(Fri)14:20 No. 198859 ID: 31cbfc
File 127750082267.png - (12.81KB , 512x512 , 168.png )

[spoiler]Sorry for the errors, I'm fucking tired. All corrected now.[/spoiler[

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)01:44 No. 199225 ID: 31cbfc
File 12775418714.png - (12.83KB , 512x512 , 170.png )

I assume you have no plans for Asgie...

Suggest an action for Zariene then.

*inhale*

CHAAAAAAAAARGE

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)01:57 No. 199238 ID: 31cbfc
File 127754265489.png - (12.79KB , 512x512 , 171.png )

rolled 3, 5 + 4 = 12

---

>>199230
She swings both blades at SOLDIER #1 who, still blinded, cannot avoid the attack!

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)02:02 No. 199242 ID: 31cbfc
File 127754293672.png - (12.70KB , 512x512 , 172.png )

He takes quite a hit!

rolled 1 = 1

---

SOLDIER #1 swings his rifle at Zariene's head!

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)02:12 No. 199249 ID: 31cbfc
File 127754353134.png - (12.34KB , 512x512 , 173.png )

But even such a desperate attack missed in his blind struggle!

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)02:18 No. 199267 ID: 31cbfc
File 127754388966.png - (12.92KB , 512x512 , 174.png )

SOLDIER #2 waits as the CRABTANK keeps loading its attack!

Suggest an action for Kanes.

straight forward all the way and try to shoot the pilot.

first result -2 ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)04:05 No. 199313 ID: 31cbfc
File 127755031344.png - (12.67KB , 512x512 , 175.png )

rolled 5, 9 = 14

---

Kanes fires both guns at SOLDIER #2!

rolled 32 = 32

---

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)04:15 No. 199317 ID: 31cbfc
File 127755095769.png - (2.28KB , 512x512 , 176.png )

Headshot!

SOLDIER #2 is dead!
CRABTANK is no longer under enemy control!

>>199317
WOOO FREE CAR CRAB THINGY

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)04:32 No. 199321 ID: 31cbfc
File 127755196236.png - (5.35KB , 512x512 , 177.png )

SOLDIER #1 drops his rifle to the ground.

"Spare me, warriors! I surrender!"

>>199321
I see a sack of information. Does anyone else?

[activate >:3 face]

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)05:00 No. 199327 ID: 31cbfc
File 127755361286.png - (3.72KB , 512x512 , 178.png )

>>199322
>Gee, you're a mind reader or what?

Kanes:
"Stay right where you are, boy, and don't move. You're coming with us since letting you get away would be dangerous, we're not like them so we won't harm you. Put your hands above your head slowly, I need to search you and ask you some questions first."

Get yon gun, seal yon armor. Can you pilot the me- actually fuck it it'll slow you down. Take whatever makes it go and interrogate as you walk.

And good move! Torture is unreliable anyway and oh hey them's some nice boots.

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)05:18 No. 199330 ID: 31cbfc
File 127755473266.png - (3.28KB , 512x512 , 179.png )

>>199329
>I can pilot it, guess who made the damn control mechanisms? It's an electricity powered prototype, with quite a nice battery and several methods of recharging. It can carry us all, scale those goddamn cliffs, offer great protection and be twice faster than our legs. I don't know HOW is this going to slow us down, by a negative value maybe.
>And if they're here with this, I assume this isn't the only one sent out. If we face a bigger force, that additional firepower may save us.

>>199330
okay okay jeebus! It just sounded big and heavy okay no need to be mean. Also noisy. What are we gonna do with captive dude-o, though?

>>199330

Runs on electricity?

Huh. How heavy is that tank, then, and how much of the weight on it is devoted to energy storage? Just a rough estimate in tons will do.

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)05:52 No. 199335 ID: 31cbfc
File 127755677786.png - (3.18KB , 512x512 , 180.png )

>>199331
>No choice but to take him along right now. He seems too afraid to try anything anyway, or probably being captive here is much better an experience than being a zeinian soldier.
>Also, I believe I noticed something strange... I need to check that too.

Kanes:
"Girls, could you please hide the bodies while I deal with this guy? Would be also nice if you searched them for anything useful, especially ammunition. Take their weapons too, I'm gonna teach you how to use them later."

 

forgot bgm change

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)06:04 No. 199339 ID: 31cbfc
File 127755745794.png - (2.68KB , 512x512 , 181.png )

Kanes:
"Now let me just take a look..."

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)06:23 No. 199341 ID: 31cbfc
File 127755859074.png - (4.00KB , 512x512 , 182.png )

Kanes:
"Fuck, I was right. By the love of goddess science, how old are you?"

Soldier:
"Effe, sir."*

Kanes:
"My... what are you even doing in the army, kid?"

* Zeinian for fifteen, they use hexadecimal system. Most likely derived from F.

He's just old enough to have run away from home and joined the army with parental permission. If he didn't have that, or if he is a conscript, he's certainly a child soldier. Not good, shows that Zeinian is running out of man power and getting desperate enough to raid the cradles.

Party member get? Well, first he needs to prove himself trustworthy.

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)16:15 No. 199512 ID: 31cbfc
File 127759414331.png - (3.60KB , 512x512 , 183.png )

Soldier:
"It's... it wasn't my choice, sir. They took me because I was 'fit', and promoted early due to my shooting skills."

Zariene:
"No wonder, bugger. You hit me pretty hard."

Kanes:
"I believe you, boy - though you'd better not suddenly change your mind if you know what's good for you. They won't forgive you this."

>I sort of suspected Zein to go this far after they recently introduced compulsory state education. They seem to have an obedient citizen pipeline laid down already. If this isn't stopped... within a generation people will forget what choice is.
>Fuck, isn't this what we tried to avoid in the first place? These people trusted us. I don't know what the fuck is wrong with the emperor.

Kanes:
"Asgie, could you hold on to the Orb and talk with the kid here? I believe he'll trust you more."

Asgeria:
"Sure thing."

best way to make someone trust you is tell them about yourself. give him some info and he will give some back.

Hey, what's the kid's name? Hey kid!

Oh, Asgeria, you're gonna think those rifles are a blast. Ha ha I kill me...

>>199512
i will hate myself for this but if he is this young and gaved up so quickly, he doesnt even have a girlfriend or any other major link with this country.

inquiring about his family may invoke some trust, altho a sad story should come. if they are not dead, they are far away or he does not think killing is worth to protect them.

if you are truly bold on ripping information of him, insinuate sex. his hormones did not boiled for battle, it will boil for love.

>>199534
that's... it's... GAH! why would you suggest that?!

>>199534
Why don't you have a seat over there?

>>199515
>>199519
I agree with those.

>>199534
Fuck-ball indeed.

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/26(Sat)19:20 No. 199584 ID: 31cbfc
File 127760523450.png - (3.28KB , 512x512 , 184.png )

>That... that's ridiculous! You're just kidding, right? Even if there was no choice, I... my heart is already bound to someone... I couldn't.

>>199584
jeebus, im not telling you to lay with him, just how you can make him talk. simply play him a little.

he does not seem to have anything to protect, and if desertion is still punished with death, he literally is putting his life on the line to see if he can live a little longer.

coming to think of it, he most likely has a crap paycheck as well.

>>199590
and when he finds out he was played he will be heartbroken and never trust her again, dumbass.


ask about his family, what are they like.

>>199584
Oh? Gonna tell us who it is?

At any rate just talk to him. We tend to approach a problem from a lot of different angles at once so usually you're going to have to figure out what's best out of the options we give you.

>>199591
wat. are you seriously considering keeping a 15 yo boy with us because he shoots good?

he should go home and study like fuck to replace the 5 years he lost learning how to shoot and surrender. but he cant, his country should do like all country do with desertion. and i would not put a underageban kid in the frontlines, that only works in anime. and if they are overgrowth lolis.

seriously, what would you do when we would need him and he desert us like he did to his army? or worse, when he needs to betray us because the army has his family?

>>199624
We could use the help. Adventure, save the world, etc. a kid with a good shot would make a great addition, if we could get him on-board.

>>199639
im just saying, he was a failure against us, he will fail with us.

he would have runned if he is a coward, so plot wise he will either join us or betray us.

>>199645
of course he failed against us, we're the good guys and they had tranquilizers. He WAS the only one of them that landed a hit, though. We should at least learn more about him before we write him off.

>>199645
you are saying a wounded soldier by himself against three opponents would not surrender? a person like that is a dumbass. he is not a coward but he isn't stupid.

Hey, all of you, stop just spouting the first silly idea that comes to mind.

He's a soldier from a foreign nation, on soil that's presumably part of the sovereign territory of another nation. I'm not too clear on the geography of the area. I guess it's possible we're in unincorporated territory.

Anyways, if Zein didn't have permission to have their soldiers here, then it'd be cause for a diplomatic incident, and possibly for declaration of war. If you turn him in, keep that in mind.

There's also the possibility that Zein did have permission through whatever diplomatic channels they've developed here, in which case you're wanted by, or at least personae non grata to, the local government. And Zein does have some diplomatic channels, even if it's just General Fen's dumb ass.

Think on it, why did it take a whole week for him to come back and pin the blame on Zariene, Kanes, and you? And with mercenaries at his call? He had a funding injection from a third party, likely a Zein spy.

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/27(Sun)14:06 No. 199878 ID: 31cbfc
File 12776727708.png - (3.18KB , 512x512 , 185.png )

>This is all so sudden. Whatever the circumstances are, all that matters now is that we nearly killed a kid who wasn't responsible for his actions. There's absolutely no way I'm going to be suspicious towards him, it'll only make things worse to leave him with nobody to trust. The fact how bad the situation is down there may only help us.
>There are no diplomatic ties with Zein, I've never heard of the place until Kanes mentioned it, as the existence of it is probably kept a mutual secret for the safety of both sides. Your theory on Fen is really likely... though his band of mercenaries wasn't a big secret, and was most likely unrelated to his schemes, merely doing his bidding. There's more to that bastard and nobody could possibly forgive all he's done - but I'll get to that later. And don't tell Zariene I mentioned that just yet.
>If this all is true though, that means they've been watching us with double agents since long before.

Asgeria:
"Are you all right? You're terribly pale."

Soldier:
"I... I still don't know what to make of this. The blue guy defeated the other two single-handed... and that flashy orb, nobody told us we'll be fighting magic."

Asgeria:
"You willingly put your weapon down, there's no reason to be afraid. My name's Asgeria. You are?"

Soldier:
"...Denn."

Asgeria:
"Do you have any family? Where are they?"

Denn:
"Only my older sister and her husband... I haven't seen them in years. One day some people came to our area and examined all the kids our age. They said a few of us including me were 'fit', and we got relocated to the inner sector. The conditions were much better than life at the outs, they trained us to use weapons and follow orders though. I left the group for the main force very early because of my performance... it wasn't as good as they said it will. And now they're gonna be after me as well because I know too much."

Asgeria:
"Don't worry, we won't leave you behind."

Denn:
"Why did they send us after you?"

Asgeria:
"Because we know what's going on, and the war could be stopped and Zein liberated if we tell the right people in time. But it would be better if you told us what you know."

Denn:
"If that means I could see my sister again... I'll tell you all I know."

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/27(Sun)14:45 No. 199899 ID: 31cbfc
File 127767510353.png - (3.73KB , 512x512 , 186.png )

Asgeria:
"Thank you. And don't worry, you'll see her when this is all over... if not, we'll at least take you to a safe place. All right?"

Denn:
"F-fine... thank you, ma'am."

Asgeria:
smiles "Just call me Asgeria."

Kanes:
"Hop aboard, everyone. We're gonna easily bust outta this hole in this thing."

how are we all gonna fit? extra seats on it?

>>199878

Best see to Denn's wound, a forty-five slug to the chest is no laughing matter. I'm surprised he's coherent; I think the shot hit him just under the left lung. If it had hit his kidney he'd be bleeding out right now.

What's that armor he's wearing made of?

well thats about right.

coerced conscription is usually bad for troop morale and desertions are usually high, but im telling you, dont count on that if things get ugly. desertions happen more when the commander is killed, and they run instead of surrender.

id hope that he can run to a small city and try to pass him as a citizen on travel that got his documents stolen. he can get a clear record if we play that right.

>>199904
umm... denn got whacked with a sword not shot.

>>199931

I got confused in the dust-up. He's hurt, either way.

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/27(Sun)15:58 No. 199963 ID: 31cbfc
File 127767951525.png - (6.25KB , 512x512 , 187.png )

Zariene uses up one first aid kit to fix up Denn's wounds. Luckily, they aren't too deep and should heal up fine within time.

Kanes:
"Strap yourself onto something, everyone!"

The crab tank climbs the steep canyon wall to the other side of the broken bridge.

i wonder if whoever sent this thing thought of the chance that we could steal it. probably not. it is pretty sweet, it even has a flame thrower, which would be like a mechanical version of a fireball spell.

>i wonder if whoever sent this thing thought of the chance that we could steal it.

We miiiight want to check for a remote "fuck the theieves" switch thingy. Like explosives. Just in case.

ThatFuckingCat!HLi.T/XeD2 2010/06/27(Sun)17:35 No. 200018 ID: 31cbfc
File 127768534157.png - (5.26KB , 512x512 , 188.png )

>>199967
It is, even by the system.

--EOC 4--

>>200014
Kanes would've known, he worked on its design too. If anything was present, he'd deactivate it.

>>200022
this is perfect chit chat material for the characters! we should hear it! also bond with denn. in a friendly non sex related way.