>>216504
Hmm, this could be annoying. We don't really know enough about him to be sure if we can keep him quiet ot not.

Best bet is probably to lock him in a place where he can't get out for 15 days but will stay alive.

Although it's possible he might have some sort of remote communication implant that will allow him to get out.

Hmm, maybe you should just tell him that all will unfold according to Vresch's plan and he doesn't need to worry about a thing.

>>216504
Okay, damage control time. Politely (as if you could do it any other way, you impressively dapper man you) inform Bicardi that Rastin has found a solution to Vresch's request to replace himself with Cora without arousing undue suspicion, while satisfying his own need to turn everything into a game. Nothing to worry about.

Under no circumstances should he be allowed to touch us. If necessary, inform him that to ensure Cora wins, an enchantment has been placed on the amulet that will slowly drive the holder mad, and the only people it won't affect are yourself and Cora. Because it wouldn't be Rastin's game if it wasn't rigged, would it?

>>216504
Don't let him touch us. I'm sure he's a nice guy and means well, but I doubt our ability to keep Vresch uninvolved. Vresch will just screw up everything in what will most likely become an increasingly desperate attempt to keep things under control.

We're agents of Chaos, if anything. We won't get anything done if Vresch gets his hands on us. But maybe we can use Vresch indirectly.

Tell Bicardi the factions are fighting for dominance. You're going to try to minimize the damage. He'll probably report back to Vresch, who will try (and fail, but try) to stop things from exploding.
Be vague. Act like you don't know the whole story. Don't mention us.

If Bicardi asks you to come back with him, tell him you can't, you have to try to go protect the city.
It's not like he's really capable of stopping you.

Rastin is the ur-troll. As long as our excuse is along the lines of some other troll Rastin would pull, it should be believable.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/19(Thu)00:36 No. 219720 ID: a6008c
File 128220335945.png - (103.25KB , 700x500 , 246.png )

>It's not like he's really capable of stopping you.
Actually, his right arm is a powerful mechanical replacement. He could, indeed, harm me. However, I am at a staggering advantage overall, but were he to hit one of my current wounds that could likely incapacitate me.

>knock him out
I can do this if necessary, but I'd rather use it as a last resort.

>Story time
"Master Rastin has decided to honor Lord Vresch's request to elect Ms. Madison as the new leader of Neotis. You know how he works - he likes to play games, make things more interesting. The one holding this pendant at the end of the month is the new leader. I am to ensure that person is Coralina."

I briefly explain the rules of the contest to Jacob, and mention the meeting. I tell him to tell as few people as possible about this, to limit the chaos of the contest.

"So, why do you still have it? Shouldn't you have given it to someone by now?" Jacob asks.

"Things were... complicated, at the meeting."

"...I am sure they were. LeVerne. Let's work together on this. I watch your back, you watch mine. I'm interested in Cora ending up with that rock at the end of this, too. Waddaya say?"

A truly tempting offer. We have worked together for many years, and know each others' secrets. He would be a poor enemy for me to make. However, in this situation, an ally so closely in touch with Lord Vresch could be quite the liability.

He already knows the whole story, so if he's going to blab too much to Vresch, he's going to do it no matter what you do now. The important question is if we can trust him. If we can, go for it, give him the orb. If not, knock him out and stuff him next to Kara.

Go for it. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. So what if he's in league with Vresch? It's not like you can't keep things from him if you ally with him.

>>219720
Accept the offer. If you're working right next to him then you will be able to keep track of him better.

Now lets get cracking on handing this heartshaped pendant over to someone else. By the way this is quite a nice work of craftmanship, thank you Le Verne.

Well, you know what they say. Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. I guess Bicardi would technically count as both, right?

Anything he hears, Vresch hears. All you have to do is make sure he hears what you want him to.

>>219720
Okay, LeVerne. You trust Jacob? Here's what to do.

Let him down, gently, now that he's been determined to not be a threat (at least overtly). Tell him that you didn't want him to be involved in this game of Rastin's. Because there is one more rule, one that you didn't tell the others because it wouldn't need to apply to them anyway. One last rule for Rastin to thumb his nose at Vresch with, a rule that you MUST ensure is followed. That rule is that no one is allowed to tell Vresch about what happens to them while holding the pendant. If he asks why, remind him, it's Rastin.

Tell him that you didn't want to involve him because you didn't think he'd be comfortable with that rule. But if he can follow it, he can help.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/20(Fri)09:17 No. 220142 ID: a6008c
File 128232106259.png - (91.45KB , 700x500 , 247.png )

"...I suppose." I say, after a long pause. I set Jacob down gently. "However, if we are to work together, there is one more rule to this contest I must tell you. Under no circumstances may Lord Vresch be made aware of what happens while you are holding the pendant. If you can not agree to this rule, I can not allow you to participate in this event, in any way."

"Okay, sure. I can do that." Jacob replies almost too quickly. I doubt he is actually committed to following such a rule, as he is a liar by nature. But, I will not be getting a better answer than that.

"Very well. Let's go." I say evenly. There is no need for him to know how little I trust him. In addition, if I take him out of here immediately, he will not discover Ms. Sigurd.

"Where are we going?"

"We're looking for someone to start the contest with this pendant. It was supposed to be someone at the meeting. I intend to give it to one of them."

"Oh? Who did you have in mind? Nightsun? Remi?"

"Kal Royale."

"...Huh." I do not think he expected me to pick someone so violent. It is very against my own nature, I must admit.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/20(Fri)09:18 No. 220143 ID: a6008c
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As we leave the building, we come across someone I honestly did not expect to see.

Ms. Seras Nightsun, the honest reporter of Neotis. I expected someone more violent to be the first I would come across. Perhaps they are readying preparations. It has only been a few hours.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/20(Fri)09:18 No. 220144 ID: a6008c
File 128232110967.png - (159.72KB , 700x500 , 249.png )

She approaches me quickly. One of the few people in Neotis taller than I, Ms. Nightsun's intimidating height belies her peaceful nature. She is not a timid woman. Not in the least.

"LeVerne. You've always been a man of peace, in spite of your crazy leader. I don't know why you are so loyal to him, and it doesn't really matter at this point. What are you trying to do? What do you hope to accomplish? I'm having trouble seeing the point of all of this. It can't end well, you know that. What is going on here, LeVerne?"

This seems too confrontational for an interview. She's really worked up over this. I think I should tread carefully here. Jacob is also a bit of a hot head. He might make this worse, but for now, he seems content to let me handle it.

>>220144
Tell her that you intend to do what must be done. The pendant will end up in the hands of someone competent and able to lead the city, you're going to make sure of that or die trying. But she needs to trust you here, it might seem as if things are going wrong during the contest, but in the end it will all end up the way it's supposed to be.

>>220144
Ask her to simply trust you. Be as simple and sincere as you can. If she continues to demand an explanation just tell her that you seek the best possible end, but it requires complex and dangerous means.

That... probably won't satisfy her, but it should be enough to get her off our back for now. Personally I like her, wish we could go with her for a while and explain things but it would just get her killed.

But since she's here, how about we take some advantage of that? She can contact our eventual allies, and ask them not to interfere until we give the word. Let the violent ones kill themselves off first.

>>220144
The game was Rastin's last set of instructions. You are going to follow them to the letter. On the other hand, there's nothing that says you can't do things that aren't stated by the instructions.
You being picked was an unexpected complication, but you're going to make the best of it. We're going to try to bring about the best possible outcome within the boundaries we've been given.

For that matter, ask her if she's started thinking about what she'd like to do about all this. She's a reporter. No doubt she'll want to start telling people. Gathering like minded individuals. Rallying some sort of defense.

If she asks for the orb, deny. Whoever holds the orb will be a target. That should be common knowledge.
But tell her you have complete faith in her abilities.

>>220144
First off, explain that this was Rastin's final request, and you're obligated to fulfill it. Now that it's been started, though, you've basically got free roam. You've got a loose plan to try and make things work out, but you're honestly curious for any advice. Ask what she thinks you should do, and what she plans to do.

>>220197
Also yes all of this is perfect as usual.

>>220144
Some things you should stress are that you realize the gravity of the situation, that you're working on a peaceful resolution (that she could help with), and that you don't expect her to trust Rastin's left-hand man and the one who set things into motion. Do not mention our half of the plan, I have a feeling she would heavily disapprove of us sowing more conflict, even if it's for the good in the end.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)11:18 No. 220491 ID: a6008c
File 12824147347.png - (83.30KB , 700x500 , 250.png )

"I am following Master Rastin's final wishes, to the letter. I am going to do everything I can to mitigate the consequences of this, however little it may be. I did not anticipate being selected initially, and I apologize in advance for all of this. It will only get worse. I do not expect you to trust me. You have very little reason to do so. I realize the gravity of the situation, and I am doing what little I can to resolve this peacefully. I only hope it will be enough."

Seras stares at me a long moment, her eyes narrowed.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)11:19 No. 220492 ID: a6008c
File 12824147658.png - (62.50KB , 700x500 , 251.png )

"...Alright." She finally acquiesces. "I take it you have something in mind for me? I can at least hear you out."

"What do you plan to do about all of this, Ms. Nightsun? You're a reporter. Don't you think you should be reporting? Tell people about everything. Tell them what it all means. Get the public aware of what is about to unfold, before they are swept up like leaves in a storm. Whoever holds this pendant will be a target. This must be common knowledge. You need to-"

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)11:19 No. 220493 ID: a6008c
File 128241477986.png - (103.92KB , 700x500 , 252.png )

Seras punches me in the face.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)11:19 No. 220494 ID: a6008c
File 128241479879.png - (137.05KB , 700x500 , 253.png )

"You don't need to patronize me."

"I need your help, Ms. Nightsun."

"Yeah, I got that. For being the strong, silent type, you talk way too much."

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)11:20 No. 220495 ID: a6008c
File 128241481794.png - (76.84KB , 700x500 , 254.png )

And then Ms. Nightsun leaves. But as she does, she waves back at me. I choose to take this as a good sign, in spite of our rough parting.

After she is gone, Bicardi asks, "...I think there is more going on than I have been told."

"Not really."

"So yes, there is."

"No, there isn't. I've told you everything."

"What didn't you tell me?"

"Jacob, stop."

"Fine. How was her right hook?"

"Weak."

"Hmm. Where were we going again?"

"To see Mr. Royale, of the Men's Club."

"Then let's go."

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)11:20 No. 220496 ID: a6008c
File 128241482921.png - (115.55KB , 700x500 , 255.png )

The travel time was, quite thankfully, uneventful this time. I was beginning to wonder if I could simply walk down the street without being accosted.

We arrive at the Men's Club. Kal SHOULD be here, but who knows with him. The bouncer at the door tells us, "Only the strong may pass." He seems to be blocking the path.

>>220496
Be a gentleman. Ask Jacob if he would prefer to deal with this.

Perhaps ask him how to prove your strength?

>>220496
Hmm, how are you equipped in the sensitive external testicle compartment? Because if you're lacking those you could simply challenge him to Rochamboe and let him go first, he will probably give up after 2 to 4 kicks.

Or if that doesn't float your boat then just take turns punching each other in the solar plexus until he gives up.

>>220496
Asking Jacob if he'd prefer to handle this sounds like not a terrible idea at all. You should do that!

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)12:34 No. 220521 ID: a6008c
File 128241926259.png - (75.65KB , 700x500 , 256.png )

"Would you like to deal with this, Jacob?"

"Yeah sure."

>how are you equipped in the sensitive external testicle compartment?
I have none. Regardless, Rochambeau is not a good idea. I have some difficulty controlling my strength output. I would not want to kill the man.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)12:34 No. 220522 ID: a6008c
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"H-hey! Put me down!"

"Hey."

Now may be a good time to mention the capabilities of Bicardi's prosthetic arm. It is capable of lifting 800 pounds without much issue, and has a full range of movement.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)12:34 No. 220523 ID: a6008c
File 128241929263.png - (73.77KB , 700x500 , 258.png )

"Don't touch my face."

Beyond lifting strength, however, it is not particularly strong, although that same strength can be used to make a powerful right straight. Its fingers are particularly adroit, and can be used in the fine manipulation of all manner of small objects.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)12:35 No. 220524 ID: a6008c
File 12824193054.png - (94.92KB , 700x500 , 259.png )

"Hey, LeVerne?"

"...Yes, Bicardi?"

"Butlers are awesome."

"...If you insist."

"I do."

We proceed into the Men's Club.

>>220524
Look around for Kal. How you actually going to explain the fact you're handing the orb to him to Jacob? Or to Kal, for that matter. Maybe you shouldn't even try handing it to him personally. Just leave around somewhere where he'd find it.

>>220524
He probably has a grip that would seriously fuck you up as well. Hmm, he must have some pretty decent leg muscles as well as back muscles to use that lifting capacity.

Anyway, lets look for a secretary or something that can point us to where Kal is.

Kal is not going to want to talk, he is going to want action. Find him, toss him the pendant, wish him good luck, give him a manly thumbs-up, and walk away. Swagger a bit, if you can.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)14:26 No. 220591 ID: a6008c
File 128242598049.png - (127.16KB , 700x500 , 260.png )

You proceed to look for Kal. You end up needing to beat up some people on the way, but the two of you handle it.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)14:26 No. 220593 ID: a6008c
File 128242600538.png - (126.60KB , 700x500 , 261.png )

"Ah, hey, LeVerne!"

"Yes, Jacob?"

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)14:27 No. 220595 ID: a6008c
File 128242602017.png - (115.73KB , 700x500 , 262.png )

"I found Kal."

"Haheheheheh..." Kal laughs. "You're a brave man, coming to my stronghold with just the two of you. And with the pendant, too! Whatever are you thinking, LeVerne?"

"simple, here, it's your problem now." and hand us over. we will then engage operation dick his plans up.

>>220595
"We were thinking you might like getting your hands on it." Then, of course, toss us over and leave. Y'know, after Jacob stops being at knifepoint, I mean.

Seeya, LeVerne. Good luck.

>>220595
Now then, we need to give him a rationale for why we want him to have us... "Delivering this to you. Better I hand it to you than it be stolen by the unworthy or be taken from the weak. If you can survive this trial, you earn it fair and square. Just release Jacob and it's yours." Don't put us directly in his hands right away, we want Jacob to not notice Kol's reaction to us. We'll try to not provoke a sudden response but you know us.

Good luck, LeVerne.

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)15:28 No. 220637 ID: a6008c
File 128242970755.png - (120.42KB , 700x500 , 263.png )

Goodbye, my friend.

"We were thinking you might want it." LeVerne drops you. "Release Jacob, and we will be gone. You may retrieve it at your leisure. Do you accept those terms?"

"...Yeah, I think that I do." He shoves Jacob away. "Get out of here."

Team Butlers leaves.

hi kal! we are here to help mess with you!

LeVerne!94Ud9yTfxQ 2010/08/21(Sat)15:31 No. 220642 ID: a6008c
File 128242986667.png - (39.35KB , 700x500 , 264.png )

Kal laughs a bit as he picks up the orb. "Well well, time to begin the hunt. Haheheheheh."

[[Feel free to start talking to him now; we'll begin the next chapter with that. ]]

>>220638
Hiya. Kal Royale. Strongest of the Men's Club. Former co-owner of Seven Deadly Sammiches. Embodiment of wrath.

We're the Pendant of Succession. We're here to help someone ascend to the throne of ruler of Neotis! And it could be you! Or someone else. Who knows?

What are your plans for this competition? Now that you've got us, people are going to come after you now, y'know.

>>220642
So, Kal dear old chum, what is it that we will be hunting? Anything less than hunting boars with only a knife would be below such a manly man as yourself.

By the way, how are your brothers these days?

>>220642
Well now, aren't you the eager one? And here I was afraid we'd be playing defense. I do hope you choose worthy targets though, ignoring the lion for the lamb will only get you eaten.

>>220642
Hey Kal. You ain't nothing. I bet I could whup your ass if I weren't stuck inside a pendant.

Anyway, we're going to make somebody King of the World. Do you have what it takes?

 

>>220642