|
Post by treemoonflower on May 15, 2018 17:22:46 GMT -5
"well fine if your so insistent on checking our supplies then fine but your going to have to be thorough about it we have many empty pockets. Send someone over forthwith to inspect us so that we may move on from these unpleasantness."
Im going to tell Balst that in addition to concealing our stuff I plan on hypnotising whoever gets sent over anyway (if they do send someone) to give his men the all clear signal. Also benatar and Alluria keep your heads down and look more like wacky eccentric character both at the same time if you can manage.
telepathically "if any of you have any better ideas im all ears"
OOG i had planned on hypnosis if they actually did want a performance but doing both i feel with balst might be better in the eyes of the sniper if i can mime out empty pockets.I assume i also have to see them first for it and I hope the lowered willpower will do work.
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 15, 2018 18:42:10 GMT -5
Benatar's Stand communicates back with the same sign language at the behest of Benatar, <Nah, you're doing just fine stalling, chief. Keep it up>. The Stand itself gives a faint shake of the head as if to indicate disapproval at the attitude of Benatar.
Balst has to reach deep. He has very little energy left, being unable to draw upon his astral reserves. He can use attempt to either gain extra energy through risking mental strain or using body fuel, but he's reticent to do either. Still, the calculus is fairly simple: avoiding conflict now saves more energy. (And Benatar thinks that they can just jump the guys later, either during a performance or at some future juncture, if they're willing to dispatch the men and loot them). He obviously can't hide the canteens, the clothes they have, or the fishing lines, but he can hide the remainder. Krans automatically can become invisible, so at least they won't be aware of his scythe.
Balst is a powerful Psion, but he is working against enemies with unknown capabilities that he cannot see. The mind-occluding aspect is therefore weaker and less targeted, and so Balst has to compensate with effectively a kind of astral fold. He inwardly curses feeling so weak, an Astral Lord reduced to performing tricks for peasants.
Alluria takes a risk of attracting the men by herself humming a very low, beautiful song, aiding Balst. Still, Balst ends up having to strain himself for a little extra energy to amplify the effect. He luckily avoids any mental strain but he is going to be noticeably panting from stamina loss.
Ironically, what seems to go far better is the much simpler act of sleight of hand. As FKJ attracts their attention with his flamboyance, and then Alluria steps up and enthralls them with beauty, FKJ is able to palm, conceal and toss away everything of value. Strange People, meanwhile, moves the bags into a hidden crevasse, which is easily able to be covered up. It's partially underwater, but Balst instructs it to make a nano-plastic wrap along with some water-proof bags that were in the first aid kit. (He'll later take that wrap and use it for food wrapping and other uses).
Ultimately, the team has to show them some pocket change of UEG coins, the canteens, and the fishing line attached to sticks that Balst found.
There's some laughter over the radio, then it cuts off suddenly. When the radio comes back on, the mirth of the man has returned to being feigned. "Wow, you guys really are broke! Well, except for those Stands you've got. Wouldn't have used those to hide anything, would you've?"
Somehow, the men seem to have found someone who can see Stands. But there is uncertainty in the man's voice: he's not totally sure. Balst communicates through Benatar, <He don't know. If any of them had Stands, one of us would have seen'm. They wouldn't be punks running a scam on a stream. No, one of them has to have Cycle Goggles. And those things don't always work well>.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 15, 2018 20:05:32 GMT -5
"While I have never herd of these cycle goggles let me tell you I've seen people use their stands for much less than robbery. If you believe them not to have a stand user than I wager the sniper in those clovers over there that's been scoping us this entire time is the goggle wearer."
"My dear Benatar you have a lot to learn about stands seeing is not the end all be all. As for right now I suggest we withdraw our stand and act the fool, maybe play it off as a guardian spirit."
in a very whimsical voice while cycling threw all his different poses "Sirs I believe there might be a language gap or something between us.While I have many different ways I stand you seem to have pronounced it wrong. I would call these poses or gestures. You have me thoroughly befuddled."
FKJ has his stand hover closely behind him but highly suggests that Benatar has her withdraw completely into her since mine being as big and noticeable as it is on top of the fact that it flew high up into the sky earlier was probably the one they saw.
OOG I communicate to my stand to basically start acting like a patron/guardian spirit. whatever that kinda looks like.. idk menacing lol.
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 15, 2018 20:37:45 GMT -5
Benatar backs up and sits down. She lets Strange People flow toward her slowly as mist then stay occluded about her. She telepathically sends back, <Guardian spirit? What the fuck are you talking about? Some Aborig shit?> Balst communicates, <I don't think there is much magic, if any, on this world. Stands are likely the only kind of similar spirit>. Benatar does show a remarkable control over her Stand, even given its apparent somewhat-autonomous nature.
The radio silence is palpable again. Balst draws symbols on the ground with a stick, maintaining his focus and calm. The signal comes back on. "Yeah. Makes sense. No way you all have Stands. Damn thing must be busted". As the radio cuts off, voices seem to get closer. They don't account for the superhuman senses of the team, indicating that the bluffs must have worked. The team can hear, "Kenny, you idiot, told you those things were on the fritz". Kenny says, "Sorry, Al, but I saw em clear as day. Then it just got weird and blurry. There's no way that can be a malfunction". "Kenny, you stupid asshole, if they had Stands like you were saying they'd have used 'em. And they wouldn't be that broke. Just keep an eye on them". A few of the footsteps stop. If the murmuring, radio communications and the sounds are any indication, there's probably about fifteen men in this group. But only eight come through a small copse of brushes and trees. The man who was talking, Alan, is about 5'5". The tallest man in the group is 6'3". While they're not in bad shape, they're obviously somewhat malnourished and in need of medical care. Teeth are missing, there's obvious rashes and zits, one man walks with a noticeable limp, and two more have the stench of poor quality booze on them. They are heavily armed and armored, however.
Balst stops using telepathy and begins using their Crashing Heavens communicators. He texts, -We have to find a way of finding and disabling those goggles. Perhaps even stealing them.-
Alan introduces himself. "Well, folks, so sorry for the intrusion. You guys looked like you were in good shape, we were wondering if you had come from a city. You guys look good for traveling entertainers!" FKJ can tell that Alan is a cagey individual and is keeping an eye out for discrepancies. "Meet the gang! We got Bob, Akri, Nino, Arl, Hugh, Earl and Guntuno". He points to each man as he introduces them. Arl is the larger individual, while Guntuno has a red skin to him and Akri seems to be something like of Korean descent.
He looks at the coins that are on the ground and says, "Never seen any like these. You guys foreigners?" The question is somewhat rhetorical; he doesn't seem terribly interested in responses, though he has been amused by FKJ. "Well, we'll take 'em, but they don't seem that valuable. Not been getting good tips, huh?" He looks at the fishing line. "Not bad. Still, don't need unspooled line". He looks at the group and laughs. "So we got a midget, two girls, and a fruit traveling, huh? Surprised you guys haven't been dusted yet! Must be real good at sucking up to bad guys".
Alan sits down on a rock and cuts an apple with a knife, complimenting it with some dried fruit and nuts. "Thing is... this ain't really enough for our land. So... you gotta be real entertaining, guys".
Arl, Guntuno and Hugh walk closer to Alluria. Guntuno whistles. Arl says, "Boss, I think I have a better idea for entertainment".
Bob gives Benatar a look. "She's more my type, guys. Rough and tumble, but you know she's gotta be good in the sack". It's not clear if Bob notices the simple colored cloth loops around her ring finger that indicates that she's married, or if she doesn't care.
Balst pipes up. "Gentlemen! Our merrie little band isn't just for entertainment, you know. We also know our way around some medical care. It seems, and I do apologize if I am being too forward, that there are some painful lesions and other maladies you are all afflicted by. My comrade here, Mr. Juice, can give you an incredible show. And I can even take some of your fruit and start making you some finer alcohol than you currently have".
Alan laughs. "He's even named like a fruit!", speaking about Kiwi. Alan looks at Balst. "Lots of big words and promises. Why don't you guys show what you can do? It'll be interesting to see how you do medical care without medical supplies. Sure you're not keeping a doctor's bag from us?" Balst decides to bluff. He says, "I had one, but between bandits and the last village, I'm out. But! I can make do with knives, threads and needles, your clothing, whatever you have".
Alan seems on board. He says, "Well, Mr. Juice, why don't you start serenading or putting on a faggoty play or whatever it is you do?" He waves off the men from Alluria and Benatar, for now.
Alluria texts, -If I help you, Master Juice, maybe we can find the men, disable the Cycle Goggles, then start taking supplies from them and disrupting them-.
OOG: For telepathy try to use <> instead of quotes, that way I can know what the enemies hear and don't hear (or what you're trying to say as a whisper audibly). For texts and e-mails and stuff use - -.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 15, 2018 23:12:38 GMT -5
<Balst be careful not to exert yourself too much you should be resting, and Alluria keep your wits about these ruffians, and of course any chance to have your assistance is more than welcome. > <Benatar if you could do anything about that sniper i'll handle the crowd here> <(to all my allies) All right gang lets try something new and fun, follow my lead and lets have some fun> FKJ claps three times in the air while posing then slowly starts pacing mysteriously around the edge of his audience humming a very low and somber melody looking each end every one in the eyes as he passes. <Alluria if you could sing harmony with me until their drunk on our song then im sure they wouldn't mind you maybe getting a little handsy with the contents of their pockets.> After he's made a full rotation he contorts his body into seemingly impossible angles craning his neck to the sky he begins to sing. Exceedingly fast to begin with much like a country diddy with waves of speed then very slow choruses. In between each verse he starts to incorporate more and more layers of his dance.Then after the peak of the final verse the entire mood changes as he lowers his volume and starts to hunch over. Getting quieter and quieter he tries to make them almost start straining to hear then once their hooked he signals to Alluria to do harmony before rocketing into an insanely dancible song( at this point busting out his saxophone and letting Alluria take over vocals and dancing to let her get better acquainted with the audience) When people start seeming the most into it FKJ begins to subtly slip in the spell mass suggestion into his playing with the command "sit back, enjoy, tip us well then let us carry on my friends" hes banking on the fact of cups still being active during the performance.
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 15, 2018 23:29:14 GMT -5
Balst replies in text, -It shouldn't be too difficult. I can sit some of them down and heal them. I can also potentially use the chance to look for 'medicine' that could be used to knock them out-.
Benatar can only communicate through Balst's telepathy. <Maybe. But I'd need to pull out a gun or leave. Strange People can but we need to find and disable that guy with the goggles.>
Alluria nods. She is indeed able to sing a siren's song, keeping them entranced. Benatar tries to have Strange People move slowly through the forest to track down the remaining (estimated) seven, including the sniper.
As the song plays, the men begin to listen. Even with the reduction to his attributes, FKJ is still literally a legendary musician. It's clearly been years since they've heard anything besides a few tapes or records in low fidelity. The men sit down at first, then start pumping their fists. When Alluria begins singing, she alternates between a wailing vibrato and an impressively masculine-sounding scream. The combination is akin to club music combined with death metal.
Using his Focused Performance and other relevant bardic Merits, FKJ is easily able to fit in Mass Suggestion. Alluria similarly can sing like a siren, compelling the men to exhaust themselves and relax.
When this happens, Balst is able to go out to look for some herbs and berries. There's not that many out there: the stream barely manages to keep an ecosystem going. Still, he manages to get what looks like some edible raspberries, some mushrooms both poisonous and non-poisonous, and so forth. He's just not sure if he can make a powerful narcotic from this.
Benatar quickly finds with the help of Strange People that even the seven men outside have been disabled. Even the sniper has moved and begun to dance.
Mass Suggestion's duration of 24 hours is easily sufficient. While the Suggestion can't make them helpless, it can make them not notice what is going on. With that in mind, Balst thinks he could easily knock them out with some of their medical supplies by mixing it into water he provides them.
EDIT: [OOG: After discussion with Tree, they decided to use his Divine Aura, hypnosis, Alluria's singing, Diplomacy, Perform, and other tools to slowly convince the men to join them].
The men party as they have not partied in some time. The ones that were left behind eventually join. Alan seems to get angry for a moment, but then says "Fuck it!" Alluria's song continues, Balst builds their appreciation by treating them (taking 100s and 50s in general) eventually transitioning to the scalpel in the first aid kit as they've long since stopped noticing, and Benatar just takes the time to relax.
The party (both in the sense of a celebration and in the sense of a traveling group) moves to the bandit's camp. The camp is basically a few ramshackle wooden buildings with cots and stolen couches, some fire pits, a poorly-dug outhouse (which clearly doesn't get used all the time because areas smell vaguely of urine), some tents, and a canvas overhang that they use as a kind of gazebo hung from a few trees.
Balst still doesn't trust them, even with the time spent slowly befriending them, so he sets a watch. Benatar takes the first watch, using her boot knife, hidden .38 small revolver, and a .45 caliber pistol. There is a tense moment when a drunk Bob comes over to talk to Benatar, but he ends up passing out before he does anything stupid. Balst takes the next watch. Alluria does not need sleep or food per se, only some time to effectively "retune".
In the morning, the men are still enthralled by the Mass Suggestion. They've "tipped" bullets, water bottles and other supplies that they had, and some coinage (including the coinage they took). Alan says, "Man, that was like being alive again! Where... where are you guys going? We might be... cool with covering you till then. I'd leave a few guys back here to hold down the fort, but as long as we can party like that again..."
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 16, 2018 0:26:05 GMT -5
-Whatever you want to do small man... that was rude im sorry-
with everyone subdued fkj reaches out to Benatar<About that sniper if he is the one with the goggles wanna take him out real quick, I mean sure hes having fun right now and I would hate to take that from him but I would love to take those goggles from him.>
Fkj also struts over to Alluria clearly making a show out of being out of breath."Man we really brought the house down didn't we my musical majesty. Oh man do I love freeform shows and today was a great one. With you as backup we can really kill it now can't we." putting an arm around her basking in the comradery all around them.
"I really appreciate your musical prowess Alluria and I look forward to collaborating with you as much as possible in the future. I know I can come off as a player and definitely an oaf sometimes but I truly just cant resist good music and madam let me tell you, you are amazing music. If you ever wanted to mabey start a band or even just a series of jam sessions don't hesitate to let me know. I'm not hard to get ahold of."
Addressing the now groupies"Well in terms of where we're going it's kind of a bizzare adventure." turns to Benatar where exactly are e going again.... wait weren't we on our way to turn me in or ...damn what was it see your uhhh brother I think.
.
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 16, 2018 0:38:57 GMT -5
Alluria smiles. "I would be honored, Master Juice". She doesn't seem to have as much concern about fidelity as other women might.
With the bandits ready to go with them, the team can head out. The bandits don't have much more in terms of non-combat supplies, but they do have their own rations. Between them they have sub-machineguns, machineguns, one sniper rifle, two hunting rifles, Cycle Goggles, and four Cycle Jetpacks. They would keep themselves in the trees and then rain death from above.
Benatar isn't comfortable with the bandits tagging along and certainly doesn't want them to know where her hideout is, but she does recognize that people need to survive in the apocalypse and there is strength in numbers. She keeps an eye on her stuff for now but she does recognize that FKJ has a... draw to him.
In the morning, Balst, FKJ, and Alluria are able to cook something far more impressive than the bandits are used to. A few seasonings and a little bit of their calorie paste and the group has their protein throughout the day and feel perfectly healthy and full. A last few medical check-ins on everyone and the group is ready to leave. Balst also boils and purifies some water, taking some of the water bags and pouches the group has. He moans, "My kingdom for a cart..."
Using the one pair of binoculars that the bandits have, the group can see that there doesn't seem to be much along the path that Benatar wants to take the group. The bandits identify a spot that they'd be okay with camping at while Benatar goes to talk to her crew and figure out where to go next.
It's time to head out.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 16, 2018 1:09:58 GMT -5
As the group starts to head out as have been walking for a while Fkj finally goes and actually tries to talk to Benatar on an equal level.
"Hey I know up until this point I've done nothing but belittle you and tell you how to live your life, but now seeing where you come from you seem to be holding it together remarkably well. It's true I know nothing about cycles,the road or race ..I don't know however you put it earlier, but that doesn't mean I'm not open to learn and this is going to be a long walk.Also if your still harboring feelings about turning me in I don't blame but I wont go easily.Honestly tho do I really seem like im a destroyer of anything let alone worlds I've never felt strongly about anything one way or another really. Well except music and showmanship that is."
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 16, 2018 1:51:55 GMT -5
Benatar's body language softens. She barely rises above a mumble as she adds, "Thanks". She continues after what he said, "No. You probably saved my life from the Bete Noire". She looks down for a moment, pulling a tear back. "And... I don't know if I'm holding up that well. You... you may.. may have had a point". She clears her throat and walks forward slightly, composing herself. Seeing that FKJ is allowing her to keep going, she says, "I owe you an apology. Dale's getting worse. We don't know where we're going next. I figured that anyone who had that high of a bounty had to have done something to mean it was comin' to them. But... you seem like a good guy". She whispers so that the men can't overhear, "These bastards held us up and you still treated 'em okay. Still don't know if that was smart, but I do know that it means you're no killer". After a little more, she smiles. "So... I hope you do feel strongly about friends, because I do. Friends?" She extends her hand out to shake.
Balst, having taken the lead despite his shorter legs, climbs to the top of a dune. He looks down and says, "There's a group down below. They don't seem to be hostile". Alan looks down and laughs. "We've heard of 'em", he laughs. The smell of fry oil fills the air. There's a purple van and a number of people on large bicycles. The top of the van has a garden growing on it. Alan turns to FKJ and says, "Want us to roll 'em, boss?" Balst's eyes flash.
FKJ is fairly confident the people below mean no harm and are no danger.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 16, 2018 18:07:17 GMT -5
"Alan my good man that is no way to keep a party going for our new patrons. We shall extend the comical hand of exuberance and see how long we can keep this crazy train going full throttle." then in a much more serious tone looks back to him." And if you don't at least slightly adjust your line of thinking this is going to be the end of this fantastical conga line for you and your compatriots."
We continue full speed toward them FKJ leading the way this time making a point to create as much noise along the way as not to sneak up on them.
FKJ sends his stand ahead to investigate the car when they get in range.
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 16, 2018 18:14:49 GMT -5
Alan seems to consider pushing back, but he feels the sting of admonition and seems to accept it.
As the group makes noise, the people in the van down below raise their own voices to match. A tambourine and drums are played. Aside from the bolt-action rifles and large pistols, the group could be any other older hippies enjoying a drive. The van seems to be running off of biodiesel, as is made clear as they get closer. An elderly woman among the group, which includes about eight people (two elderly woman, one elderly man, a middle-aged man, a younger couple, and two children, one of whom is currently breastfeeding), waves and says, "Welcome, strangers! Why don't you come down and sit a spell".
The Wheel of Fortune is able to scout them. Looking at their body language, he confirms what his danger sense is telling him: that these people are mean no harm.
Benatar whispers to FKJ, "We don't have a ton of time".
Balst replies, "Madame Collins, surely in this environment it is best to be friendly? After all, they are likely to be more concerned if we are a large group that doesn't reciprocate."
Benatar chuckles. "You're not as dumb as you look, little man".
Balst shrugs. "I lived in a world far less developed than this one, my dear. I know of the dangers of being on paths".
The old woman continues, "Will you folks take some seeds and some food? All we ask is that you try to plant them wherever you can!"
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 16, 2018 18:40:14 GMT -5
"Right on right on my radical brothers and sistahs. Keep on planting the good fight in this downtrodden environment."
FKJ is the first to sit in a dramatic half cross legged fashion, then gestures for the rest of the party to join. He flashes a quick gesture to Benatar in an attempt to quell an protests about staying too long.
"well my colorful and welcoming hosts thank you for this brief reprieve from the wastes. While we cant stay long we definitely have time to jam with you in a mutual exchange of talent.
After taking a quick stock of their musical supplies fkj decides to sing rather than steal the show completely.
OOG: do these people need anything obvious that I can provide? Also SPIN DAT WHEEL BROTHER
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 16, 2018 19:06:53 GMT -5
The older man laughs. "Far out, man! Very few people we meet are this cool. Let's groove. I'm Uncle Pinecone, my better half is Grandma Nightshade, and then there's Belladonna [the other older woman], Armin [the middle-aged man], Rally and Ruben [the couple], and the kids are Sunray and Moonray".
The grooving continues. All told, after some fulfilling smoke, drink, and food, they end up going up 18% each in HP, energy and stamina, putting them at the following:
FKJ – 90% HP, 56% stamina, 43% energy Balst – 100% HP, 36% energy, 83% stamina Benatar – 82% HP, 76% energy, 120% stamina Alluria – 100% HP, 86% energy, 120% stamina
OOG: Balst and FKJ can see that, aside from just having their morale improved by a good groove, they also could improve their biodiesel and thereby increase their fuel efficiency. They can also talk to them about their herbalism and possibly create some potions or medicinal items with them.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 16, 2018 19:59:36 GMT -5
<Well Balst i'm going to continue to groove until someone physically stops me but it seems you love to tinker with things,probably your dwarven blood , and these seen like genuine people who could use all the help there is to offer in this world. I dont know how much longer we are gonna be rested here but we should make the most of this reprieve and spread the good tidings.> FKJ asks in between verses" You cats don't by chance have anything to uhh smoke now do ya. Been a long time in a far out land. Maybe we could even work out a trade of some sort." <Benatar when and where are we meeting the next leg of the race? Also while Im fine with our current companions I cant bring myself to dispatch them, as bad as it sounds out loud im kind of hoping they just become meat shields or starve. I've always been bad about starting things and letting them get carried away and as you said earlier I have a sort of ... draw for crowds but I still recognise that we may need subtle. For now im content with their company but feel free to dispatch them the moment they get on your nerves...... because I wont hahaha.>
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 16, 2018 20:25:28 GMT -5
Balst sighs. <Gnome. You know damn well it's a gnome>.
Armin says, "Aside from the weed? There's some salvia extract".
Benatar replies, <You can tell them to leave, you know. They'd probably listen to you. You'd just have to break their heart. But as long as they're not a problem, I'm not dusting them. And the race... you're not in it yet. Whatever is going on here, my group may know something. But when I get there... I need to stay with my people>.
Balst takes a look at the van. Through Quintessence, he conjures an image of Brynjar to help him. With the help of his evocation of his Storm Giant friend, he's able to talk to Ruben who seems to be their self-taught mechanic and work briefly on the car. Meanwhile, by taking a look at the herbs, the groups are able to put together their resources and come up with some items. They make some powerful salves for burns, some painkillers, some stimulants, some wound-closing items, some antidotes, some immune-system boosters, and some other medicinal items.
The wheel lands on Wands, allowing them to regenerate some energy slowly.
After relaxing, Benatar gives a head motion to leave.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 19, 2018 10:01:35 GMT -5
FKJ quips back <I don't even know what this race is let alone if i want to join it.I was simply using your phrasing from earlier.>
Springing to his feet "well thanks for the smoke, its been real but we must be on our way" after the pleasantries and good byes have been said fkj does indeed take a bag of seed and offer to spread them.
As they get moving Fkj starts to engage in a sort of song walking game where he will sing a verse then throw it off,literally materializing the rhythm, and playing hot potato with it. After the obvious first couple people (Alluria and Balst) it gets tossed to Benatar.
<Let your heart sing, cut loose from your tethers and fly with it.>
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 19, 2018 17:32:52 GMT -5
Benatar shoots back, <Oh. Well, you may want to stop doing that. The Race means something specific here. Sorry for misleading you I guess?>
The team is able to enjoy some fresh purified water, summer vegetables and brief relaxation before the remainder of their trek.
Balst wonders if this is the most efficient use of energy, but he does reason that the song will maintain their walking rhythm and stamina and thus be worth the mystical energy use. Benatar seems to stare, annoyed that this might attract attention. When Benatar catches the song, she sings in a soft voice. Her voice is harsh and rough, but she does seem to be singing a lullaby.
Luckily, the sound and activity don't seem to catch attention. The team trudges on across an otherwise-dreary landscape, the few plants increasingly fading, only occasional cacti, splotches of scrub grass, and other desert flora to break up the monotony. FKJ thinks he sees a rabbit running far in the distance and there's obviously beetles and other insects, but otherwise the place does seem to be highly arid.
Eventually, the team arrives at the agreed-upon campsite for Alan's group. They begin to set up, rolling primitive dice and playing with a worn deck of cards. Benatar whispers, "Hopefully having these guys here will cause other groups to steer far clear". She seems to be looking for the silver lining.
Benatar then leads them down a series of tight, narrow dune paths. This opens up into an easy-to-miss sort of valley among the desert. She walks forward and forward and then comes up to a dune that has a verdant overhang. All of this seems to serve as camouflage, alongside what's clearly a canvas cover that is covered with sand. She knocks on the cover. There is silence. She says, "Time and tide wait for no man, Who's to say that dreams and nightmares aren't as real as the here and now?" A voice then rings out over the intercom. "Good to see you back, Bennie". Benatar smiles as a large vault door opens behind the canvas. A man comes out, tall and thin, with a faint yellow over his body, and gives Benatar a leaning hug, letting Benatar support his weight. "Who are these cats?", he whispers.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 21, 2018 18:37:14 GMT -5
*clears throat* then backs up behind Balst and Alluria crouching a little hunched. Fkj throws his voice next to Benatar in a mocking imitation mafia man voice,"Yeah see who's the stiff. You didn't say nothin bout no cops!"
Now in a motherly voice behind the man."Now now i'm sure that isn't the case here, your too paranoid."
Now in an imitation of the man's voice (only slightly mocking),"Wow Beenie these new guys you brought are so cool and strong. I bet their like secret bajillionares."
Then in Benatar's voice (but more girly),"Oh I know right their so great, ESPECIALLY this guy named French Kiwi Juice he's the best and OMG you just have to watch his mad sax skills and and once he fought this big thing and it was amazing...(fkj trails off to himself at this point clearly not even trying to be discreet completely lost in his own joke oblivious to the rest of the introduction. Sure to snap back eventually once we all move inside and the joke dies)
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 21, 2018 18:56:20 GMT -5
The man chuckles to himself, coughing slightly, then scratching his neck profusely. "So... you brought a clown, a midget and a chick. Man, hot chick though". Benatar gives him a punch to the shoulder. "Cool trick you do with your voice, though".
Balst sighs. "Excuse my companion's lack of decorum. I am a gnome, Balst, and that is Alluria and Mr. Juice".
Benatar's husband laughs. "A midget who talks all fancy and a bunch of weirdo names. Dale Noots, folks. If Bennie vouches for you, you're all right in my book. Come on in".
The environment is fairly impressive. Because it's underground, it remains naturally cool even as the heat is serious outside (though not as bad as some deserts). There are a few salvaged heaters and cooling vents. The opening is clearly the remnants of a bank vault. The gate has a large lock and there's a modified road crossing apparatus that can bring down cover. As you move in, the digging goes down and is reinforced heavily, until it begins to hit actual dirt. Then metal and wood siding, along with some bare dirt passages, transition into a small environment. There's nine bedrooms set staggered from each other along the relatively narrow hallway, barely enough to fit two average-sized people, and one storage room. A salvaged gym-style shower is set off from the central kitchen and dining room, with a wooden and a metal table, the former clearly looted from a park. Two refrigerators and a large chill chest evocative of the 1960s are on, alongside an oven, a classic microwave design, and a toaster. There is also a walk-in refrigerator that is being used as a meat locker, currently holding two deer carcasses.
"Not a bad little spot, eh?", Dale asks. "Sure, we're running a little low on the canned goods, but with Bennie back from her trip, we can have her hunt! Did you get the bounty, baby doll?"
Benatar shakes her head. "No, I didn't, Daily". She leaves it at that, clearly not telling Dale that her new compatriots are the ones with the bounty.
Dale sighs. "Dammit. That minigun... set us back". Bennie responds, "I know, honey, but I didn't use that much and, honestly, we got back some bullets and some supplies. Besides, these guys are worth their wait in gold. Balst can check up on us and make sure we're okay. And Kiwi here might be able to make it so Layrene goes to bed finally. You know lullabies, right Kiwi?"
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 21, 2018 19:25:56 GMT -5
"Well I don't mind saying this but the goal of my music is to usually get people up and out of their seats. I suppose if I sang backwards.. yes that genius give me one moment to test this, Alluria give me a toe tapping diddy but backwards.
(Very loud and off key) "HOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Rolias neknurd a htiw od ew llahs tahw ..Rolias neknurd a htiw od ew llahs tahw ..Rolias neknurd a htiw od ew llahs tahw ..
Gninrom eht ni ylrae.
Sesir eh pu YAH-YAW Sesir eh pu YAH-YAW Sesir eh pu YAH-YAW
Gninrom eht ni ylrae."
After a few verses he turns to his clearly mortified audience in a very big "Tah-Dah"
(Laughing while talking) " Of course I know lullabies come on."
"I was serious tho that they are not my favorite, but I have commited that lovely tune you sang earlier to heart (looking at Benatar) of course tho I had to put my own spin on it. You know for copyright reasons."
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 21, 2018 19:58:55 GMT -5
Alluria adds, "Actually, 'Drunken Sailor' is firmly in the public domain".
Dale claps slowly. "Man, it's not easy to make something that ugly. But maybe... you know, try to let a kid sleep".
A large black man with a relatively short, yet curly, crew cut comes out. He moves with this sort of slow, cyclical lumber. He offers, "Man, what was that garbage?" Dale responds, "New people, Daytona". Daytona seems a little more suspicious than Dale. He walks up to the team and extends his hand, after rubbing it down with a washcloth. He holds himself like a mechanic.
As Daytona goes down the line, he gets a sense of each of the newcomers. Looking at FKJ after they shake hands, he says, "Boy, you may got a gift for Cycle. You got the right shoulders and hips for it". Benatar keeps quiet for now, allowing FKJ to say what he's going to.
Bennie instead decides to say, "Our friends here ain't staying long. They need to figure out where they're goin' next".
Daytona shrugs. "Tough to say, that. I hear tell that Mavis City to the east may actually be kinda safe. Wouldn't be a bad lead if they can't stay here".
Bennie insists, "They can't".
Daytona replies, "Bennie, you know we gotta put it to a vote".
Balst offers squeakingly, "Terribly wouldn't wish to be an inconvenience"...
Daytona says, "Can't have people walking the wastes solo. Course, maybe you could get into the Race".
Alluria whispers to FKJ, "I think we need some answers as to why we're here and why we can't return yet".
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 21, 2018 20:52:01 GMT -5
"Cycle Cycle Cycle, Race Race Race.Ever since I got to your world, which I might add is pretty dreadful...no offence, this is all i've been hearing about.Now either someone please give me a clear explanation, or at the very least tell me why it is that I cant seem to be able to leave this place. I'm not used to being stuck in the same scenery for this long and its really starting to sink in that I may be stuck here."
to Balst< I know you cant connect with your astral kingdom or whatever and that you really want to leave but truth be told Im rather curious about this race and bounties and such. I just want you to know whatever happens i'm just going to continue to go with the flow. I know that life isn't for everyone and I don't blame you if you would like to leave as long as I have your contact information we can always jam together again.>
FKJ solemnly is still holding out hope that Alluria will keep traveling with him even if the party splits. He is still unsure the nature of their relationship.
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 21, 2018 21:25:54 GMT -5
Daytona nods. "Sorry, man, but it's complicated". He sits down and motions for FKJ to do the same. "Ever since the Nightmare Road started, when the Bete Noire started to come, our regular weapons didn't do much to 'em. Guns, arrows, dynamites, swords, even the few atomics we had. Tanks became death traps, tin cans that just popped. I was in the Army mechanics corps. The best we could do was use earthmoving equipment, dig em in, and just rain napalm. There were a few people who could hold the things back: The Red Rider, Morris Cee, Marvel Woman. But it was like they were tryna put out a forest fire with a hose. It just wasn't enough.
Then Prince Corwyn Yates came around. Dude had been an embarrassment. But he said that when he was tripping on LSD he saw something. He called it Cycle. It's like..." Daytona looks around and finds a placemat. He says, "We see things like this, right? Flat". Then he bunches it up slightly so there's a pattern of ripples. "But things are like this". Then he takes the placemat and rolls it. "And the Cycle makes it like this. It's like looking at everything as this whole single moment, like stopping thinking about the world like the film only runs forward and thinking like it's in the projector. You do that right, you move your body right, you tap into something. It lets you move motorcycles and cars. Bennie uses it for her minigun. Aside from the few people who got Stands, the people who can figure out how to use Cycle are the bosses here".
Daytona begins to eat some chili as a few more people circle around for what's going to be the start of their late lunch. "Then President Clancy made a national Race. The first people who reach milestones, and anyone who has certain events documented by camera - at least wherever you can get television, gets prizes. The final destination is a secret, but it's to the Southwest. One of the only ways to make any real scratch is in the Race".
Daytona then asks, "What do you mean by 'can't leave'?" Benatar winces, clearly hoping he wouldn't notice.
Balst texts back, -I do not leave my allies, sir. We have to return home because we need resources to help these people. But for right now, we have to just bunker down and use what resources we've got to fight here. But we do need to find out why you can't leave-.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 21, 2018 22:19:43 GMT -5
Fkj gives Benatar a smirking look as if saying you had to have seen this coming, then flashes her a quick hand signal as if saying watch this.
"Well, since you know about stands already and seem trustworthy I feel I have nothing to hide from you folks. I myself have a very unique stand that allows me to travel the vast expanses.Unfortunately I am not the master of where my stand lands on. It's like this big wheel sending me wherever fate decides.One day while I was just sipping lemonade I came across this stubborn, quirky little character you all call Bennie. We didn't exactly see eye to eye at first in fact we did quite a bit of head butting, but over time she told me of this incredible bounty she was after. Me being the downtrodden traveling entertainer I am offered my assistance in the bounty. After all i'm always looking for extra money here and there and this was too good to pass up."
(long pause)
"Unfortunately while we were perusing the mark the town we were at got attacked by the creatures you call Bete Noires. We were able to hold are own, even push it back, but man it was a hell of a fight. To tell you the truth I had never fought one before but it did seem to go rather well until it burst into a pixel like smoke. I assumed it was vanquished but then we kind of fell into this place.Now me and my companions are seemingly cut off from traveling the great expanse and are seeking a way to right this."
"I do not expect you to know, but any clues or tidbits of folk lore here and there i'm sure would not fall on deaf ears."
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 21, 2018 22:33:43 GMT -5
Benatar tries to disguise that she was hoping that information wouldn't come out. "So... you're some kind of... alien then?", Dale asks. A haggard woman at the table, dressed in tattered white clothes somewhat like a hoodie, clasps her hands over a child's ears. Daytona says, "You killed a Bete Noire? No way. Can't be. No one could be that good at Cycle..." Benatar says, "It's true, Day. It's true. He didn't just use Cycle, he fought like Morris did". Daytona says, "All right, tell me more".
Balst looks around the group of people as FKJ talks. He again texts FKJ, -They've become suspicious. They're wondering if we're dangerous. It's obvious that we may be the bounty that Benatar was looking for. The group is wondering why Benatar withheld that information. I think they're figuring out if they want to turn us in, or kill us, or kick us out. Keep an eye on them-.
Strange People waves his hand at the three Crashing Heavens members. It indicates that Benatar is going to try to make sure they are not harmed.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 21, 2018 23:18:16 GMT -5
"Look my friends as I said I am a traveling entertainer.I only wish to spread my music and good tidings to all I come across in this beautiful expanse of existence. Before a few days ago I had never heard of cycle or Bete Noires.
FKJ stands up now calm and collected hands outstretched in a semi shrug.
"However I want you all to know I am no threat to you or your way of life."(fkj lets out a laugh)"Well actually your way of life may be in severe danger...of getting more fun and fulfilling!"( create the punch line bud um chh)
after the assumed crickets FKJ chimes back in."Ok ok hard crowd but seriously,truthfully,honestly between my companions of merry makers and your very own Bennie we did push back the Bete Noire. I no not if if has fallen for good or not but we did an amazing job as a band of fighters. Also we were so close to finding the bounty before that happened I'm sure we would have had it too with how awesome a combatant Benatar is I mean seriously have you guys seen her wield that minigun. She's a one woman army. You all must have trained her well."(FKJ seems to stop talking and draw a blank)
"I seem to have lost my train of thought ummm Idk I guess what i'm trying to say is i'm a guy who just takes anything life hits me in the face with and rolls with it. I strongly suspect you people are much the same way and i'm here and ready to assist. Also im still out of money so anything thrown my way I would definitely strive to earn."
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 21, 2018 23:26:28 GMT -5
FKJ sees some relaxation as he speaks. It seems as if they know so little about his experience set that they can't be sure. That combined with the fact that Benatar seems to vouch for them does seem to assuage their concerns. They seem to accept that, for now, he is another bounty hunter. People eat their venison chili, with the one young girl of the group whining that she wants some cheddar. Balst smiles and reaches into the supply. He takes out some queso that's part of their rations and distributes it. As everyone eats, Daytona does seem to continue to be feeling FKJ out. He asks, "Where you from, then? Obviously ain't Neumerica".
Strange People begins to give more hand-waving to show something important. FKJ is told that there are two major continents on this world, the one Neumerica is the largest government on named Alonia and the other continent, Zulonia, which at present seems to be largely run by a fascist society, Korwon. There's also some small island chains, such as the Duncanshire Islands and the Nealls, and a smaller Greenland-type place, Lorwos. Benatar seems to indicate that the people here probably won't know much about anyone from the Nealls and Lorwos.
|
|
|
Post by treemoonflower on May 21, 2018 23:56:06 GMT -5
FKJ nods and makes a mental note to tell Benatar later that he has no idea how to read sign language but for now just smiles and keeps nodding. "Well you see I was born in my towns local chuckel hut where i spent most of my development under a mute (spell) my mother had put on me so my crying would not disrupt the patrons during their shows. Only when I finally stopped crying and started miming funny scenarios to people was i finally allowed to speak. Oh man the first year of words was amazing at the age of 9 I had my whole routine worked out juggling unicycling jokes you name it i had it all. Until one day a scary looking patron sauntered into the front door." At this point FKJ is mainly addressing the youngest with a spooky voice"He had long black robes reaching all the way to the floor and a huge nose what must have been a foot long poking out from inside his hood. He came in and sat down and watched all the guests perform until hours had passed and finally it was my time to perform. I go up and immediately start with my most killer jokes,while on a unicycle of course, when all of a sudden the man shoots out of his seat and sreams." "Boooooooooooooo Booooooo show me what else you got booooo!" "I was stunned I had never been boooooed before all my jokes had always killed. So shakily I started juggling magic tricks and singing and again the man kept booooing me." "When all of a sudden I drop my juggling clubs and the crowd fell silent. I was on the verge of tears just staring at that man with the most fake smile on my face wondering what can possibly go wrong next." (long and scary dramatic pause) "The man stood up so fast his chair went flying across the room with a bang that cut threw the silence and he yelled." "Thats it Ive seen enough" and he pulled out a bow and arrow and shot me right in the face!!" "I don't really know what happened next but I woke up far from home at the age of 9 and quickly had to adapt to the fact that I was all alone with only my ability to entertain and travel to keep me company." "And well fast forward 20hmmhmm years and now i'm here with this merry group of people trying to give them the same smile i've kept all these year. That my friend is where i'm from hope it answered all your questions "
|
|
|
Post by Frederic Bourgault-Christie on May 22, 2018 0:40:44 GMT -5
Daytona raises an eyebrow. Another man, this one a shorter and slightly paunchier individual named Rale, says, "No, that... didn't answer anything". The three children (a young black boy, a young blonde girl and a dirty blond and ratty boy) laugh at the story. Daytona says, "It's all right, you don't have to tell us the truth".
Dale chuckles and says, "No need to interrogate em, ain't that right? If Bennie vouches for em, I think we know that she's got the best head on her shoulders of all of us". Benatar nods.
Daytona leans forward and continues anyways. "What about you two?", he asks.
Balst and Alluria wonder what to say. Balst says, "As your compatriots no doubt know, people out here like to keep their information private. I can say that I grew up in a small town. Smart people, great with their hands, great with the dirt. I guess you'd call it a little people commune. Anyways, one day I went out hunting and I came back and they were all gone. I've traveled on my own ever since".
Alluria says, "I.. don't remember much". She decides to go with the amnesia angle. No one seems ready to gainsay her.
After the lunch, with people feeling incredibly full and hale as a result of the protein-enriched queso, people return to their business. Benatar cleans and repairs guns and equipment, Daytona works on maintaining the place, Rale works on fishing lures and flies, Daytona's wife Maggie reads to the children and teaches them, and so forth. It's clear that a tremendous amount of work has to go into constant cleaning. They're using both candles and what few lightbulbs they have left.
Balst looks over everyone in order. Maggie has the beginnings of pellagra, there are rashes and other conditions, dental work has to be done, but no one is immediately very sick.. except Dale.
After seeing Dale, Balst walks into Benatar's work station. He whispers, "Are you aware of Dale's addiction?"
Benatar seems cagey for a moment, not sure what she has to say. She says, "Move on, little man".
Balst sighs. "I have treatments for both mind and body. But if we leave, you will not be able to find enough poppies..."
Benatar growls, "Enough". After a little, she whispers, "Look, if you guys are serious about sticking around for a little bit... yeah, we're not doing as good as we could be. Supplies are running low, our garden is a flat-out mess and we don't have the time to build a good fence with barbed wire for it... we honestly need to find a way of fortifying and protecting a ranch if we're going to make it. We have basically no money".
Alluria notes, "If you need money... there are other bounties, are there not? With our help, you could possibly take down bounties more dangerous than you used to".
Benatar grunts. "Could. 'Course, not so excited about getting another one after I found out you guys weren't so bad. And a bounty takes time. Gotta track, monitor".
|
|