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>>2693078

Information:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/QM91m
Discord: https://discord.gg/AmjbaTR
Archives: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=do+your+best+quest (Rough Grammar ‘till half of the 9th Thread)
Complete Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-nIx_dvaNCPQ7zLg2BK_ucCyGNM741kAANxqXj7hdDs/edit?usp=sharing


Votes:

Votes are counted until 20 minutes have passed. This rule doesn't apply to the last reply of the day.
Votes that require a dice roll are counted until 10 minutes have passed.

Dice Mechanic

We always roll 1d100!
I use the average (the mean) of the 4 best rolls and success will be determined by the difficulty I specify for the action or prompt. If there are less than 4 rolls I’ll do the math with the ones I have.
Above 45 is a success on a normal roll. Above 55 is a success on a hard roll. The hardest rolls I won’t specify because I find it more fun if I don’t.
Rolling over a 95 is a critical strike and ignores the other rolls!
We will roll after the voting is done.

>>2693078
>Check your phone for messages! Maybe something happened…

>>2693078
>Check your phone for messages! Maybe something happened…
Who could it be now?

>>2693078
>>Check your phone for messages! Maybe something happened…

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Since you’re bored out of your gosh darn mind and don’t want to bother the hobos, you check your phone – perhaps you could find something of interest. Earlier you received a bunch of messages, so while you don't have any high hopes, you check anyway out of principle.

>You have one from your secret girlfriend!
She’s complaining about her sore body and asks you if tomorrow’s session is at the same time as today’s. She mentions not having Matilda’s number too. You text her Matilda's number, tell her that its same time same place, and joke about a second massage.

>Another one is from Osgood in the team chat!
He wants to do a short meeting tomorrow after training, he says everyone looked so tired he didn’t want to cause anyone trouble today – but it’s an absolute must. Nobody has answered yet, and you decide to leave a ‘k’. You take the time to add Matilda to the team chat while you're at it.

>Mr. Detective Richard Wright also sent you a message!
It appears he found the potential base of T.T. Neko, and he’s ready to take action as soon as possible. Thanks to the general area you and your comrades told him, he found out some specific cats are moved from places of higher congregation to a certain house.
He doesn’t want to push you, but he makes it clear that if you take too long to help, he will face her alone. You don't answer him yet.

>The final message is from Constance.
She says she and Athelone are probably going to call you in your dreams tonight. Could it be about that one man from the meeting…?

Welp, that’s a shame. Sans Richard’s message, nothing too important seems to have happened. The sun is starting to set this beautiful Saturday night... Saturday night…

“May I help you with something?” Out of nowhere, Nariko is next to you.
“Ehm… No, I’m fine.” You blink a few times after spacing out.
“Mmm… You sure? You looked like me when I watch TV."
“Yeah, I'm okay.”
“Nariko! Stop being creepy!” Yu Yan yells over from the kitchen table.
“S-sorry.”
“Don’t be sorry, you didn’t do anything wrong.” Your smile calms Nariko down.
“I’ll keep watching TV then…” Nariko moves away to stare at her brainwashing machine. What a weird moment.

What do you do?

>Hey, tonight's Poker Night! It's GAME TIME, boys!
>Gain as many (You)s as possible with shitposting!
>The next set of exams are months away, but better to study early than late!
>Take control of the TV and watch the news yet again.
>Write In.

>>2693283
>Hey, tonight's Poker Night! It's GAME TIME, boys!

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>>2693283
>Hey, tonight's Poker Night! It's GAME TIME, boys!

>>2693283
>>2693288
Don't forget to invite richard

>>2693283
>Study, text the group their money is safe tonight.

>>2693283
Oh yeah, backing >>2693320 too

>>2693283
>Hey, tonight's Poker Night! It's GAME TIME, boys!
poker mini game?

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You know what time of the week it is! It's GAME TIME! You tell the girls you're going out for a few hours.

"To where?" Yu Yan gets curious.
“To hang out with friends.” Easy excuse.
She starts to snigger. “…I thought you had no friends.” Her doubtful words crush you from the inside, but you refuse to let anything show!
“I’ll go with you.” Wait what? Nariko wants to leave the house? “We won’t make the same mistake again, Johnny.”
“Yeah, we can’t leave you alone! We’re your nurses!” Yu Yan joins in the party-pooping.
“No really, it’s okay. My friends can take care of me.” You attempt to reassure them.
This only serves to make Nariko more determined! “We will escort you there, at the very least.” Oh boy. That small joke is costing you now.
“No, it’s fine… It’s really close by, I swear.”Keep it cool, keep it cool…
“Ohhhh… I geeeet it… You’re ashamed of us! And by us, I mean Nariko!” Yu Yan smirks, pointing at Nariko.
“Ah!?” Nariko gets all red.
“Because of how fat you’re getting!” Yu Yan giggles uncontrollably.
“N-No! He isn’t ashamed of me!” Nariko seems rather indignant, Yu Yan probably struck a nerve. A first, if you think about it. You don't think for long, because you spot your chance and shuffle to the door!

“I’llseeyougirlslater,I’llcallifanythinghappensbye.” You bolt right out the door!
“W-wait!” Yu Yan didn’t see it coming.
“Please take care!” Nariko kinda saw that coming.

You’re outside your apartment, confident that Nariko will lock the door behind you. While walking down the stairs, you thought it would be a fun idea to invite Richard too. Craig is always happy to have more players, so it wouldn’t be a problem! You call him.

“No.” Richard responds rather quickly.
“C’mon, you don’t have anything else to do, do you? Or is the clinic that interesting? It’s really close by, I swear. If Bradford is still there, he can take you.” You grumble to Richard. You'd joke about Kata, but that might make him settle on 'No.'
He sighs on the other end of the phone. “Right… Only this once. Sorry If I sounded rude before.”
“It’s okay. See ya in a bit.”
"See you there.”

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>>2693640

This is going to be a disaster, but disasters are fun to watch. You arrive at Craig’s apartment two floors down from yours, on ground level.
Craig opens the door wide, huge welcoming grin on his face. “Good one, kid! You in tonight?”
“Hell yeah!” You let yourself feel the hype. “I invited a friend over again, hope you don’t mind.”
“Come on in! And you know me, kid. The more the merrier! Who're you inviting anyway?”

You briefly describe Richard.
“Heh, are all your friends involved with the police?” Craig chuckles at this. His apartment looks a little different from before, like he has seasonal collections on display or something. There is an oddly familiar mask on the wall, probably put there so everyone walking in sees it in seconds.

“Mr. Ando. I see you’re finally here to settle our little dispute.” It’s Mr. Conti and he’s all business already!
“Are my ears foolin' me, or did you really invite that smartass?” It’s Roger Jackson! It’s nice to know he’s a regular here now! “You’re giving me a chance for revenge, eh Johnny?” He smirks wildly. Right, he and the police don’t like Wright all that much.
“Hey, you made it. Thought you were going to be busy all day man.” Osgood is here too! W-wait, you thought he was going to be on a second honeymoon with his girlfriend!

“We’re still waiting on other people to arrive. Do you want something to drink, kid?” Craig smacks you on the back.

How do you respond?

(Pick one.)
>“Beer, please.”
>“Do you have soda? I’m a little thirsty.”
>"Just water. I want to save the drinks for later."
>Write In.
(Pick one.)
>“Hey, who else is coming?”
>"So you guys ready to lose again?"
>“Osgood, why are you here? I thought you were going to be with your girlfriend…”
>Write In.

>>2693644
>"Apple juice, please."
>“Osgood, why are you here? I thought you were going to be with your girlfriend…”

>>2693644
>"Just water. I want to save the drinks for later
>“Osgood, why are you here? I thought you were going to be with your girlfriend…”

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>>2693644
>"Orange soda, please."
>“Osgood, why are you here? I thought you were going to be with your girlfriend…”

>>2693644
>>"Just water. I want to save the drinks for later."
Water is good for you.

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>>2693644
(Pick one.)
>Orange Juice extra pulp
(Pick one.)
>“Hey, who else is coming?”

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“Uhm… I’m happy with water for now. I want to save the drinks for later.” That delicious apple juice is going to have to wait. Or is orange soda better? You will see later.
“Water coming right up, kid.” Craig now looks at the rest. “Anyone else want something?”
“Gimme the usual.” Mr. Conti responds first.
“I still have some of my beer, I’m fine.” Jackson smiles.
“I’ll take a cup of coffee.” Osgood responds. Craig walks to his kitchen. That reminds you…
“Osgood, why are you here? I thought you were going to be with your girlfriend.” Totally not implying anything.
“I never miss Poker Nights.” Osgood looks deadly serious, more than you've ever seen him.
“…You've missed a bunch, what the hell are you talking about?!” Mr. Conti stops him right in his tracks!
“I just missed one or two, come on…” Osgood defends himself rather poorly.
“Wouldn’t surprise me if you end up single after tonight, loverboy!” Roger jests and sips his beer.
“S-shut up.” Osgood is now slightly pissed. Just slightly.
“Leave the lad be. If he wants a break, he wants a break.” Craig arrives with the drinks.
Osgood gets closer to you and quickly whispers in your ear. “I’ll tell you later…” Uh-oh, that never sounds like good news… He sits right next to you.

After a few minutes, you hear the doorbell. It’s Bradford and Richard! Bradford seems in good spirits, but Richard seems uncomfortable for some reason.

“Hi Craig, Osgood!” Bradford struts in with a smile on his face.
“Hey Bradford and…” Craig stares at Richard now.
“Richard. Nice to meet you.”
“I’m Craig, nice to have you here kid. Make yourself feel at home.” They handshake.
Richard looks over the merchandise on the walls and tables. “Nice place you have here.” He becomes visibly less uncomfortable.
“Hehe, it’s just a little collection. The real bad boys are in the back.”

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>>2694088

After introducing himself to everyone, Richard joins the table alongside Bradford, sitting next to you.

“So poker, right? Rather simple game.” Richard remarks as he continues to check the place. Its like all the collectible memorabilia are holding his gaze, and he can't look away!
“Yes you like poker?” You ask him, trying to keep conversation going.
“Not particularly.” Richard shrugs slightly, glass of water in front of him. He seems more relaxed than in the clinic. “Thanks for inviting me.”
“Can’t believe I would find you here, smartass.” Jackson tells Richard.
“Didn’t you retire?” Richard deadpans immediately, focusing on Jackson.
“Does this place looks like the force to ya? Of course I’m retired.” Jackson laughs, but then leans in a little towards Richard. “I guess your suspension is getting to you.” Okay, that had some venom to it.

“L-let’s not bring personal issues to the table today, okay fellas?” Bradford intervenes. He's got a soda in front of him.
“How can you enjoy a game without some vitriol towards your fellow schmucks?” Conti gives Bradford a look.
“By having fun…?” Bradford shows his naivety foolishly!
“I can see why we lost last time. Goddamn.” Osgood mumbles under his breath, remembering Tag Team Pool Night.
“That’s part of the past now!” Bradford smiles at Osgood, then turns to the rest. “Because today I’m here to win.” Bradford’s voice turns all serious! What the fuck? Where'd this come from?!

Eventually Helmaer arrives, says hi to everyone, and nobody really cares! Then Sewel finally appeares, claims he was busy doing something upstairs. Suspicious, but nothing you can do about it.

It appears the gang's all here!

“So Hogg isn’t coming today?” Sewel asks Craig, motioning at an empty chair with his beer.
“You know how busy he gets.” Craig shrugs.
“We’re 9, so one big table right?” Helmaer takes a gulp of his beer.
“No, we’re dividing it in two. Still waiting for someone else.” Craig smirks. “Unless he cancels in the next 5 minutes…”

You hear someone knocking at the door. You feel an ominous presence behind it.

“And that must be him!” Craig gets to the door and starts opening it…

You wonder who could it be!

>Oh NO! It’s Matilda’s grandfather, Jun Spice!
>Oh GOD! It’s KaShing’s bodyguard, Flint Masterson!
>Oh SHIT! How the hell did Trent Figg get here?!
>Oh FUCK! It's Henry, who invited him?!
>Oh wait! You have no clue who the hell this is!
>Write In.

>>2694091
>Oh wait! You have no clue who the hell this is!
Dealers choice m8, who we going to rob blind tonight?

>>2694091
Fuck it, time for mystery box
>Oh wait! You have no clue who the hell this is!

>>2694091
>Oh FUCK! It's Henry, who invited him?!

>>2694091
>Oh NO! It’s Matilda’s grandfather, Jun Spice!

>>2694091
>Oh wait! You have no clue who the hell this is!
THE BOX! THE BOX!

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Could it be…? It is! It’s… Ehm… You don’t know… You have never seen this person before in your life! He’s wearing a hoodie and has something of a lax attitude.

“Hi Craig.” He whispers to Craig, so low you barely can hear him. Then he looks at everyone here and instantly tries to run from the door, but Craig catches him before he can escape. He then drags the mystery man inside, pulling him away when he grabs the doorframe.
“Hey fellas, this is Jeff Jefferson! He’s rather shy, but I know he’s going to warm up in a few minutes.” Craig pats him on the back, and the man cringes. “He’s an artist or some shit! Graphic design was it?”
“Hi…” He waves at everyone. “…And yeah.” He’s a man of few words.

Craig smiles to the group, Richard barely containing his laughter for some reason – it’s like he knows something everyone here doesn’t. Definitely something iffy going on. Everyone else just takes the newcomers in stride. The shy man actually whispers something to Craig, but he dismisses his fears with a handwave.

“Okay, we have 10 guys here, my tables aren’t that big – so we’re going to divide into two groups. The top two seeds from each group are going to decide who's going to be the winner of the night and earn the prize.” Craig takes out a mysterious box. It looks old and sturdy, almost like a mini safe! “Unless you guys are willing to bet money into this…”
“The hell you mean 'unless'? We’re going to bet AND get that box!” Helmaer wants the prize!
“Are you serious? You never pay…” Conti stops the wannabe rapper, but Helmaer pushes Conti's hand aside.
“I’m for real! I got some extra cash tonight, so let’s do it!”

“Seriously, this is supposed to be chill… Besides we already have a prize.” Osgood doesn’t seem convinced.
“Now I can see why we lost last time...” Bradford brings the banter back to Osgood, looking smug as he throws Osgood's own words back at him! Osgood glares back, gritting his teeth.
“…” The new man wordlessly throws a wad of bills on the table, looking calmly at everyone.
“I’ll take that as a yes.” Sewel grins and palms down some bills of his own.
“C’mon, I bought this prize so we don’t have to do this, and since paying for the drinks isn’t doing the job anymore.” Craig intervenes, looking a bit dismayed. Then as he pulls a wad of green out of his pocket, his frown turns upside-down. “But if you guys really wanna…” He places his wad on the pile, dead center.
“I have some money on me.” Roger reaches for his pockets.
“Breaking the law as always, I see.” Richard comments, taking a sip. Everyone at the table looks at him with varying degrees of 'what the fuck did you just say?' on their faces. “…Relax, I was just joking.” He’s so stoic you don’t know if it’s an actual joke…

>>2694455

“So we’re betting?” Bradford doesn’t look that comfortable, while Osgood's eyes shine as he puts down money in the center poker pot.
Craig just sighs. “I guess we'll have to vote again…” He looks at everyone individually. “Okay, who wants to bet real money right now?”

You have money to spare, but that doesn’t mean you should waste it. Does this count as a waste at all if you have so much money? What do you do?!

>Bet a couple dozen Gor$. Low, but you're here for the game, right?
>Bet a hundred Gor$. Its decent enough compared to what the others bet.
>Bet several hundred Gor$. Definitely an impressive bet, no doubt.
>Bet a thousand Gor$! You prepared for this, time to see their faces!
>Bet TWO thousand Gor$! Any more is not worth it, even though you have 25K.
>Don’t bet money like a pussy.
>Write In.

(Last Reply of the day, we continue tomorrow.)

>>2694461
>All in baby 5k

>>2694461
>Bet a thousand Gor$! You prepared for this, time to see their faces!

>>2694461
>Bet a hundred Gor$. Its decent enough compared to what the others bet.

Let's not flash our big money dick around.

>>2694461
>Bet a hundred Gor$. Its decent enough compared to what the others bet.

>>2694461
>>Bet a hundred Gor$. Its decent enough compared to what the others bet.

“I want to see some hands going up for betting.” Craig makes the vote official!

Everyone but Conti and Bradford raise their hands. The remaining participants start looking for their wallets.

“Just a hundred.” You throw your money in the pile. Osgood stares at you like he’s saying ‘you cheeky cunt’. Right, he knows you have literally thousands to spare now.
“Yeah, let’s get this party started!” Helmaer grins as he throws a pile of $1 bills onto the pile. At least change at the bank or something… “Hey kid, you mind if I called you Double J?” Helmaer asks the new kid.
“I don’t mind.” His voice is barely audible, but you caught him.
“Okay everyone, take a number from this hat… let’s see who ends up with who!” Craig out of nowhere takes a little hat with folded papers inside… You take one.

Right, time to assess the situation as the battlefield lines are being drawn:

First you have Martin Helmaer. A street rat and known cheater, the second-rate looking wannabe rapper is probably going to use every cheap trick in the book now that money is involved. Probably the most disliked man in the whole room, the only man he could perhaps ally with is Mr. Conti since they previously worked together. But today its every man for himself… You consider him the weakest link because everyone will focus on removing him first.

Next you have Sewel, a mechanic with a devious and murky past. If shady isn’t the perfect the word to describe him, you don’t know what else is. Even though he’s always up to the challenge, he seems to not be so great at poker, and often bottles his leads. Out of everyone, he’s probably the worst player by far – but if he’s able to ally himself with Craig, perhaps he can become a true threat. You feel a little animosity from him, perhaps because you were allies with Matilda at the pool games, and she exactly wasn’t the most graceful of winners.

Another weakling would be Bradford. The shameless fat photographer isn’t known for his strategic mind and underestimates the competition. You already beat him in a 1v1 duel and even with the proper help he seems to be clueless. But his eyes for details, his 'never surrender' attitude, and his alignment with Osgood and perhaps Craig, could make him a hard nut to crack. Will Bradford would be willing to join forces? Is even worth carrying his dead weight? You will have to see.

You have no clue about Jeff Jefferson, but the unknown factor plus beginner’s luck could make him a threat. He will be playing all alone today, so perhaps you could form an alliance with him? It wouldn’t be wise to side with a stranger, but it would certainly be unexpected for the others.

>>2697283

Roger Jackson is another mysterious element here. The ex-police officer was praying for a challenge last time, and now he has his chance to show the boys his fighting spirit. He seems to be somewhat of a poker aficionado and has a ‘win at all costs' attitude. Last time he was weighed down by your guardian – but today he has free reign to go on the attack. A possible ally for you too, but do you really want to face him next round? He will probably oppose Richard if he has the chance.

The master of ceremonies Craig Harris is another wild card here. When he did play seriously, he was a force to be reckoned with! But that was pool, and this is poker! He hasn’t shown much of aptitude for this, but he’s the host… And the host always has the advantage. He can pretty much side with anyone but Richard and Roger. You have to keep an eye on him… If he’s planning to play seriously today, that is.

Robert ‘Dirty Rob’ Conti, the math teacher with a vendetta. Probably the only man at this table who wants to beat you personally. Is experience as much of a factor as he pretends it is? He hasn’t shown much mastery of the game, but perhaps he’s going to play seriously now that he has an objective. Helmaer and Craig are his only possible allies that you can see.

One of the biggest threats here is Richard Wright! The ace detective not only has an ace under his sleeve with his partner, but his analytical prowess and eye for detail can prove to be game-changing. He has no allies and doesn’t think highly of the game, but those are the only reasons he isn’t at the top of this list.

The only man who has ever posed you a challenge during these merciless battles is Osgood. The Comeback Prince, true to his name, always seems to fall behind at the beginning only to crawl back to victory. Defeating you as a beginner isn't seen as a great accomplishment, but somehow this college student has lucked out and beaten bigger fishes than he was supposed to catch. Perhaps you will find an ally in Osgood today, but do you really want to rely on him?

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>>2697286

And you draw your number… it’s a 2! You’re in the second group! You wonder who you will face….

“Who’s also number 2?!” Helmaer asks loudly as he raises his arm.
“We all know you’re shit, man. Not need to tell us.” Sewel responds, smirking. Showing his number 1.
“Don’t say it like that...” Osgood shows everyone his number 2…

And so everyone shows their number! Groups are decided; the two survivors of each group will pass to the next round.

Group 1 is Sewel, Richard, Jeff, Craig, and Bradford.
Group 2 is You, Osgood, Mr. Conti, Roger, and Helmaer.

Craig brings you all to his secret room, the same one you guys played pool in. He hands Osgood a deck and some tokens…

Before you start playing, you feel the gaze of two of the players: Osgood and Roger Jackson. You feel like they want to make an alliance with you. Mr. Conti and Helmaer are already planning their moves together. Remember only the two best players pass onto the next round, so alliances might not last…

What do you do?

>Ally with Osgood.
>Ally with Roger Jackson.
>Ally with both, then betray them. Play 4D chess with them.
>Ally with no one. You play alone and with style.
>Write In.

>>2697292
>Ally with no one. You play alone and with style.

>>2697292
>Ally with no one. You play alone and with style.

>>2697292
>Ally with no one. You play alone and with style.

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You play no favorites and this is every man for himself! You casually wave both men off. Hopefully, this doesn’t bite you in the ass…

“It’s nice to know the opportunity for us to settle this came immediately, Mr. Ando.” Conti shuffles the cards, speaking as if you're attorneys talking about a lawsuit and not a game of poker. Every man will deliver at some point, you can't afford to lose focus at the start!
“Hey, hey… Don’t forget we’re playing too, Dirty Rob.” Osgood glares at him.
“I've seen you taste defeat more than times than I can count, Mr. Gaumont, and I am a math teacher.” Conti retorts, ready to play.
“Texas Hold’em, yeah?” Roger asks, checking the table.

>(Disclaimer: If you don’t know the rules, google them if you want, but we’re not going to actually play the game!)

“Yes, we’re playing seriously today.” Conti grins as he delivers everyone two cards.
“I hope you’re better at poker than you are at pool, Rog.” Helmaer does a 'come at me' to Roger, trying to take him off his game. Roger just gives Helmaer an even look.
“You don’t seem like you’re good at any of them, so I think I’ll be alright.” Roger brings the banter back. “And… don’t try to start a fight with me; I only retired a week ago.”

Everyone has 50 tokens, and the battle is about to begin…!

What’s your strategy?

>Survive, there is an alliance between those two and you aren’t feeling risky today! This will put you at a disadvantage, but you will endure more. (Easy Roll)
>Bet big and take the lead! If you don’t start accumulating a lead now, things'll get impossible to control later! (Hard Roll)
>Play like you always do! Maybe these are slightly different rules, but it’s the same psychological warfare as before! (Normal Roll)
>Write In.

>>2697490
>Play like you always do! Maybe these are slightly different rules, but it’s the same psychological warfare as before! (Normal Roll)

>>2697490
>>Play like you always do! Maybe these are slightly different rules, but it’s the same psychological warfare as before! (Normal Roll)

>>2697490
>Play like you always do! Maybe these are slightly different rules, but it’s the same psychological warfare as before! (Normal Roll)

>>2697499
>>2697504
>>2697505

Time to roll, everybody! 1d100!

Rolled 35 (1d100)

>>2697519

Rolled 46 (1d100)

>>2697519

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>2697519

Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>2697519

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>2697519

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Your usual strategy should be enough to beat these pesky contenders, you don’t need to risk anything – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pack a punch. And the game starts! Everyone shows their worth!

Surprisingly, your teacher and second-rate rapper duo have proven to be worthy of a challenge! Inflating the bets! Bluffing together to make it seem they have a better hand than they show! No hand seems to be good enough sometimes to beat those two; their shameless tactics are nothing but dirty tricks! Thanks to these two, the tokens are moving fast and moving everywhere. Currently, things are going like this:

Conti – 82
Helmaer – 73
You – 65
Osgood – 25
Roger – 5

You’re doing good enough, but how long can you keep this up!? Your teacher really came prepared this time!

“You seem to be holding pretty well so far, Mr. Ando. Once those two leave the field, it’s just a matter of time for you to collapse with them. Numbers don’t lie.” Conti smirks savagely! He thinks he has it in the bag.
“I can take you two. I'm just disappointed you need somebody else to think of taking me down.” You shuffle the deck, your turn to deal.
Conti does a side glance at Helmaer, then back to you. “So incredibly cocky… Winning the last few times has made you stubborn and predictable. And this is a test no amount of textbook studying will earn a passing mark.”
“Hey, hey, hey! Don’t count me out.” Osgood gets in the way! He doesn't look very determined, eyeing Helmaer's tokens. "And for the record, I have low As in my calculus course, thank you." Conti's glare moves over Osgood, and Conti actually nods at him!

“Wohohohoho, what happened my man?! 5 piss poor tokens?!” Helmaer laughs in Roger's face!
“I know you’re cheating. I just need to know how.” Roger seems to have caught onto something.
“Me?! Cheating?! Maybe yes, maybe no… But maybe you need the help of that… what'd you call him? Oh yeah, that 'smartass'! Seems like you can’t carry a note on your own. Hahahaha! I bet sirens are more reliable than your beat-cop ass!” Helmaer takes the piss out of Roger. What a twat, but if Roger is right – there is something going on.
“This is the problem with not having a designated dealer.” Osgood just stares at Helmaer, causing him to laugh even harder.
“C’mon, kid. Make me smile.” Roger wants his cards badly, desperately staring at the deck as if it'll help him get better cards.

>>2697679

Seems like everything is going according to Mr. Conti’s plan. Perhaps you should do something to stop him?! What do you do?

>Direct attack on Conti! If Helmaer is cheating, that means you'll have to put the pressure on your teacher instead, matching him every time he goes up! (Hard Roll)
>Open your eyes and try to determine how Helmaer is cheating, and call him out! Maybe Philo can help, looking for you in places you can't look without drawing attention! (Hard Roll)
>Keep playing normally! By the end of this, you only need to survive and outlast the others. (Normal Roll)
>Make an alliance with Osgood! He’s the Comeback Prince, right?! Dethroner of Ka-Shing, right?! King of Games at Sparks of Luck, right?! (Normal Roll)
>Roger needs help! He has only 5 tokens, but it isn’t like its mission impossible! Ally with him! (Hard Roll)
>Write In.

>>2697683
>Direct attack on Conti! If Helmaer is cheating, that means you'll have to put the pressure on your teacher instead, matching him every time he goes up! (Hard Roll)

>>2697683
>Direct attack on Conti! If Helmaer is cheating, that means you'll have to put the pressure on your teacher instead, matching him every time he goes up! (Hard Roll)

>>2697692
>>2697693
Time to roll again! attack teacher!

Rolled 8 (1d100)

>>2697707

Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>2697707

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>2697707

Rolled 86 (1d100)

>>2697707

Rolled 52 (1d100)

>>2697707

Rolled 37 (1d100)

>>2697707

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You deal cards to everyone, your strategy being to attack Conti now. Why? Because if Helmaer is cheating, that means Conti is relying on him to keep their starving game going – but if Conti loses their pairing will take a hit! You see your hand and it’s pretty good, a pair of 7s…

Everyone starts betting!

Roger looks at his cards and grins, then he shoots you a look. “Thanks, kid. I’m going all in.” He puts his last remaining tokens in play.
“A 5 token all-in? What a piss poor performance! You should pick up some skills from me instead, 'officer'.” Helmaer laughs yet again.
“I’ll go too.” Mr. Conti goes in too.
“5 tokens.” You put them on display.
“Here I go too…” Osgood matches the bet, still looking nervous.
“Show me the gold, baby!” Helmaer throws in 5 more too!

You show the cards on the table, a pair of twos appears out of nowhere plus a King of Hearts! Holy shit, you have two pairs and if another 7 appears, you have a Full House! This is your chance!


“Mr. Ando, I’m feeling like you’re part of my team too.” Mr. Conti smiles. You can tell he’s bluffing. “Here, Mr. Gaumont, show me some fighting spirit… If you dare.” Conti drops another 20 tokens. Helmaer glares at him with a ‘what are you doing?!' face, but your math teacher’s composure doesn’t falter. This is your chance. Of course, Roger will only take the portion of 5 tokens that were first bet if he wins.
“I’ll call.” You put in the other 20 tokens.
“…” Osgood silently stares at the table. He has no other option! “Call.”
“Getting cocky I see… You'll be joining Jackson on the bench too.” Dirty Rob is ready to win.
“Bah, shitty cards…” Helmaer folds! He’s out of this bet!

You show the next card! It’s a Queen of Spades!

“Uhm…” Mr. Conti stares in deep thought.
“I’m going up.” You add 15 more! That’s a grand total of 40!
“Ngh…”
“What’s wrong? Numbers getting too high for you?” You raise an eyebrow.
“I-I’m calling…” Mr. Conti is starting to hesitate. “No, I’m raising!” He adds 10 more!
“…” You grin and silently call his bet! It’s 50 now!
“I’m so fucked, god damnit.” Osgood puts his forehead down on the table and groans loudly.

The final card is a… 9 of Diamonds…. Uh-oh… Still! Two pairs are okay.

“…” You decided not to continue bluffing.
“…” Mr. Conti doesn’t want to bluff either.
“You guys aren’t betting anymore? Then show your hands!” Osgood shows his piss poor hand! It’s… a straight! 5 cards of any suit, in sequential order! He has a 10 and J! With the K, Q and 9, that means you’re fucked!
“Shit!” Roger yells, slamming his fist on the table, as he’s out of the game! Helmaer starts laughing at him, wiping a tear from his eye.
You nervously look down at your hand, then back at Osgood. “I have two pairs…”
“Wait, what?!” Osgood’s face starts to shine again.

>>2697902

“I… have a trio of twos! What a catastrophic mistake Mr. Ando!” Mr. Conti’s shit-eating grin is so gigantic, it rivals Helmaer’s! You lost this hand, but the war ain’t over yet. Or maybe it is, and you’re just delaying the inevitable.
“Shut up! I won! Wooooooo! Take that, idiots!” Osgood is jubilant! Oh god, did he make a comeback!? Is this his power as the Comeback Prince kicking in?! He’s in the lead… Barely, but still in the lead:

Osgood – 85
Conti – 82
Helmaer – 68
You – 15

You’re almost out of the game… Perhaps you should rethink your strategy going forward?

>No time for games, you need to figure out how Helmaer is cheating! Maybe Jackson and Philonune can aid you this time. (Hard Roll)
>Perhaps Osgood needs some help. If you join forces together you have a decent chance of securing second place. (Hard Roll)
>Your fighting spirit cannot be deterred! You’re going to win fair and square, and damn the consequences! (Very Hard Roll)
>Write In.

>>2697905
>No time for games, you need to figure out how Helmaer is cheating! Maybe Jackson and Philonune can aid you this time. (Hard Roll)

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>>2697912
We'll try to see if Helmaer is cheating! Please roll! (This is the last reply of the day! We continue Tomorrow!)

Rolled 22 (1d100)

>>2698048

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>2698048

Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>2698048

Rolled 64 (1d100)

>>2698048

Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>2698048
What the hell is going on with our gambling rolls, are we finally biting it?

Rolled 37 (1d100)

>>2698048

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>2698048

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It’s Conti’s turn to be the dealer. Osgood is still celebrating his ‘victory’ next to you, and you don't feel like taking him out of it. You will have to focus your efforts on discovering how Helmaer is cheating.

“Philonune, I need your help to figure out how he's cheating.” You tell your partner in crime.
“Johnny, I would love to help – but I simply don't understand this game. Even if I found something dubious, I wouldn’t know for sure if it’s a trick or not.” Philonune says, destroying your hopes for a comeback. Time for Plan B.

“Mr. Jackson, help me.” You use your eyes, looking at Helmaer then the cards then back at Jackson.
“Kid, if I knew how he’s doing it – I wouldn’t have lost.” Roger returns his gaze back with bad news. “I still believe in you, boy!” At least you think that's what he meant.

Shit… You’re alone in this one. You should just fold the next time Helmaer deals just to put full attention on getting this guy on the ropes. A few hands were dealt, and you decided to survive in the meantime:

Helmaer – 90
Mr. Conti – 87
Osgood – 65
Johnny – 8

reject the cards before they're dealt.

“Too late to play this smartly, kid.” Helmaer grins, onto what you're doing.
“Leave him be, he’s already out of the equation.” Conti is already onto his new target. “There is another tangent we have to take care of… Mr. Gaumont you fight valiantly, but there is nothing else you can do now.”
“Wanna do this blindly, Conti? Don’t look at the cards and I'll do the same.” Osgood already used his comeback card, and since then he has been only discreet with his plays. Does he have more in store?
Conti stares at Helmaer, whose grin just gets wider. “I accept your challenge, Mr. Gaumont, but there is no more time to be wasted in trivial games. I’m going all in.” Conti grabs his fortune in tokens and shoves it to the pot.
Osgood scoffs and folds, passing the cards back to Helmaer. “Then I’m out.” He didn’t even bother calling the bet!

“Shame you’re such a cowa—” Before Conti could respond with his insult, Helmaer puts all his tokens in the pot! “W-what do you think you're doing, Martin?!”
“What's it look like? I’m calling.” Until you saw Helmaer's shit-eating grin, you never thought someone could ever be this smug. “Feeling lucky today, Dirty Rob?”
“Y-you! We had a deal!” Conti is losing it!
“Heh. All those rap songs about shanking people exist for a reason – and trust me Rob, I've sang quite a few of 'em. So show your cards…” Helmaer moves the three cards to the middle.

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>>2699306

This is just formality, but you need to be sharp! If you can catch him here, this'll hurt! You slowly see Conti’s expression change to anguish as each card is dealt! Fuck, you were so amused by your math teacher’s suffering that you didn’t pay full attention to Helmaer’s stratagem! Of course the trickster won the hand, leaving Conti shaken.

Mr. Conti leaves the table in 4th place after leading for most of it. What a tragedy!

“Hahahahaha!” Helmaer laughs loud enough to turn heads at the other table, as he rakes in most of the tokens! “Now you kids, time for you to put on a show for me! I’m basically in the next round anyway, leaving me more time for fun!” Martin Helmaer puts his stinky feet on the table as he plays with one token in his hands.
“C’mon Johnny, you can’t continue with just 8 tokens. Just give up, and I’ll refund you your money after, how's that sound? I promise you I’ll win.” Osgood plays the diplomat part perfectly, but you can see in his stupid face a little grin – a devilish, cruel, and sadistic little grin… It sends chills down your spine.

Standings:

Helmaer – 177
Osgood – 65
Johnny – 8

The psychological warfare is not over yet!

>Convince Helmaer to even the odds for you, and you will beat Osgood 1v1! (Normal Roll)
>Give up. You will trust Osgood for the next round… Even if this is a little humiliating. (No Roll)
>Play it out ‘till the end. You will go to the next round doing your best! (Very Hard Roll)
>Convince Osgood to join forces with you to take down Helmaer. After all, you have trick under your sleeve. (Hard Roll)
>Write In.

>>2699310
>Convince Osgood to join forces with you to take down Helmaer. After all, you have trick under your sleeve. (Hard Roll)

>>2699306
I ate a line down below the first rankings, sorry:

Helmaer's dealing. You call your designated bet, as the others soon follow. You immediately reject the cards before they're dealt.

>>2699310
>Play it out ‘till the end. You will go to the next round doing your best! (Very Hard Roll)
We shall have Vengeance.

>>2699310
>Convince Osgood to join forces with you to take down Helmaer. After all, you have trick under your sleeve. (Hard Roll)

>>2699315
>>2699338

The dynamic duo against the Hotdog vendor! Who will win?! Please roll!

Rolled 5 (1d100)

>>2699343

Rolled 86 (1d100)

>>2699343

Rolled 35 (1d100)

>>2699343

Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>2699343

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“No, Osgood… I think we should join forces. Together we can take out Helmaer.” You tell to your great friend Osgood. For the greater good, like a real hero!
“Nah, I’ll pass.” Osgood isn’t into it!
“You don’t understand, I have a plan.” You adjust your glasses, trying to look cool, even though you're still dead last.
“And your plan is…?” Osgood looks skeptical.

“Mr. Jackson, Mr. Conti… Since the two of you aren’t playing, why won’t any of you be the dealers from now on?” You call for the both of the losers to step up! Both of them hate Helmaer’s guts right now.
“T-that’s BS! You can’t do that!” Helmaer is quick to complain.
“Don’t worry, Martin. I think you can trust me. Although I believe I can no longer say the same about you.” Mr. Conti pries the deck out of Helmaer’s hands.
“We don’t gain anything by helping these kids out anyway.” Roger says, but his smile tells another story.
“I see, let’s give it a shot then.” Osgood… believes in you!? Your plan is good enough for him!

You all call your designated bets.

“Believe this is a good hand, gentlemen.” Conti starts dealing the cards. You get the feeling Helmaer’s are terrible.
“I’ll go…” You add 3 of your 8 tokens to the table.
“Ngh… Rgh… This… is… this is… This is C-R-A-P!” Helmaer folds his cards!
“Not much of a man anymore, eh?” You make fun of Helmaer. He glares at you.
“Wait… I'll call.” Osgood speaks with a certain sadness in his voice.
“Wait, weren’t you supposed to work together?!” Roger is dumbfounded, just like you are.
“Don’t you get it? Truth is…” Osgood seems a little ashamed of himself as he explains in a slow monotone. Then he pulls a wicked murderer-like smirk that draws gasps from everyone at the table.

“The game was rigged from the start.”

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>>2699586

“…?!” Conti opens his eyes wide, clutching the table. “No…”
"Yeah!" Helmaer reaches over and high-fives Osgood, to your horror! “We were playing together since the beginning! Don’t you think it was a little too perfect how easy Conti went down? How all our efforts went to take Jackson out of the game too?" He looks at Osgood. "Even his comeback was part of our plan! We wanted Johnny and Dirty Rob outta the game! You guys are too good for your own good, see? ”
“You three were destined to lose. Nothing personal.” Osgood cracks his knuckles. “Let’s get this over with.”
…

You somehow manage to win this hand, but your win is hollow, your actions futile.

“Conti, there's a card under your sleeve. Am I right, or am I right?” Helmaer notices and points at it. “Didn't you just cheat right now?”
“…” Conti is utterly defeated too. His face falls as he hands the cards to Jackson.
“You can keep the tokens, Johnny.” Osgood says, yawning. “Mr. Conti won’t be the dealer anymore, okay?”
“…” You remain silent. It’s over, isn’t it?
“Kid, I don’t know how to cheat. You'll have rely on your own luck.” Jackson says, but there's no conviction in his voice. His spirit is broken too.

You valiantly fight against those two, but eventually your luck runs out… leaving you 3rd in the group stage. What a tragic failure! Your streak is over!

“Don’t take it personally, it was just a game. I’ll give you your money back later.” Osgood says to you, leaning back in his chair and reveling in the betrayal.
“Wouldn’t surprise me if you guys rigged the groups too.” Conti says as he looks down at the ground. His beer glass has been chugged down to the bottom in misery.
“Maybe we did, maybe we didn’t.” Helmaer handwaves the idea, and you can't tell anything from his smile.

You feel salty, what do you do?

>Let’s check out the other table…
>Let's check out the rest of the apartment…
>Let’s go back to your apartment…
>“Well played.” Congratulate them! You’re not a sore loser, are you?
>Write In.

>>2699593
>“Well played.” Congratulate them! You’re not a sore loser, are you?

>>2699593
>“Well played.” Congratulate them! You’re not a sore loser, are you?
>Down our glass, get some more water and
>Let’s check out the other table…

>>2699593
>“Well played.” Congratulate them! You’re not a sore loser, are you?
>"At least ya'll finally made me loose, I would have cleaned ya out otherwise. Loosing just means I'll come back better next time."

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“Well played. But losing just means I’ll come back stronger next time.” You tell them both as you drink whatever is left of your water; they cheated their way to victory! That’s the exact opposite of playing well! They did their best, but is this how is it supposed to be? Is cheating really part of doing your best? Food for thought, you guess.
“Oh geez, I was worried you were going to get really mad.” Osgood’s pressure is gone. ”Let’s get that soda you wanted before.”
“You could learn a thing or two from the kid.” Roger Jackson brings up a good point to Helmaer.
“Shuddup.” Helmaer is tired of Jackson’s voice, now no longer smiling.
“To believe you would step so low to betray me. Martin. You really surprise me sometimes. Good luck in the finals, because that’s going to be the only thing you can rely on from now on.” Mr. Conti’s saltiness is showing, even more intense than yours.
“That goes for you too, man.” Jackson now is at Conti’s throat too.

As you come back with your new drink, you hear a commotion at the other table. It appears their winners have been decided! The winners are Jeff Jefferson and Bradford! Who saw that coming?! It seems the whole thing was barely decided between Jeff, Richard and Craig, with Craig and Richard losing the last hand badly!

“Cool.” Double J says. A man of really few words, but at least he’s enjoying himself.
“I really underestimated all of you. That was more fun than I thought.” Richard seems to take it well.
“Ugh… If I didn’t listen to my coach’s advice, I would have been in the final.” Craig seems disappointed.
“Hey, don’t blame me, jackass. I didn’t play for you.” Sewel shrugs.
“So who's going to face the king from the other table?! I demand a real challenge!” Bradford’s ego size is now only rivaled by his own gut.
“Hey fatso, ready to lose?!” Helmaer jumps into the party.
“How did this brute get here?!” Bradford looks comically shocked.
“S'up?” Double J is very chill about it.
“I’ll take my leave, wish me luck.” Osgood says to you as he approaches the winners’ table.
“Have fun.” Cheaters don’t need luck! You barely care enough at this point to feel salty anymore.

What do you do now? You’re feeling a little tired, but there are a lot of people you can talk to, and the night's still young…

>Watch the finals! Cheer on Bradford because screw Helmaer winning!
>Talk with Richard. Maybe you can learn a thing or two about him.
>Ask Craig about his stuff. Maybe you will learn something new?!
>Leave.
>Write In.

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>>2699743

>>2699593
>“Well played.” Congratulate them! You’re not a sore loser, are you?
>”Keep the pot, bro. You earned it fair and square.”

>>2699743
>Talk with Richard. Maybe you can learn a thing or two about him.

>>2699743
>>Talk with Richard. Maybe you can learn a thing or two about him.

>>2699743
>Talk with Richard. Maybe you can learn a thing or two about him.

>>2699743
>Talk with Richard. Maybe you can learn a thing or two about him.

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Since you lost and he lost, maybe you should talk to Richard in the meantime. Getting to know him better, perhaps he will tell you the dark secret past he probably has! You’re reading too much into this; that could be annoying. Point is, you wanna talk. You approach the man in question, who is watching the finals from farther than everyone else.

“How did things go? Enjoying yourself?” You take a sip from your glass. This orange soda's really good!
“Yeah, it's been an enjoyable evening.” He replies, actually smiling for once. He doesn't look as tried or worn-down as before.
“Glad to hear that.”
“You didn’t reach the finals either, what gives? Bradford was hyping you up the whole time.”
“That’s embarrassing. And yeah, almost the whole table turned against me because of how hard I won last time. It wasn’t easy to go from there, and well, I couldn’t turn it around in the end.” You analyze the match and admit your fuckups.
“Hmph, perhaps the group stipulation did more harm than good.”
“Nothing I can do, really. Luck can only get you so far.”
Richard looks at the door. “Do you mind if we go outside? This place reeks of cheap booze and I’m not in the mood for it.”
“Alright.” You look at the table, feeling good at catching a dismayed look on Helmaer's face. They aren’t even paying attention to you at all… Maybe you could be the weirdos of the party and just have a chat outside.

You leave the apartment. The Pokyo Lokyo summer night is chilly – but with this heat, it’s great! Richard stares at the stars, then at you.

“So what's the real reason you invited me here? It can't have been to lose minor pocket change for no reason.” He’s all business now.
“Ehm… To have fun?” You scratch the back of your head.
“Is that your real motive?” More skeptical now.
You look around. Nobody else is out here, and lights and noise of the city feel far away. “Yeah…?” What else could you be scheming?!
“Sure…” He has a hard time believing you.

Time to get to know each other better! What do you want to ask this weirdo?

>“So you like Sparks of Luck?”
>"How's work at the police?"
>“What happened to your brother?”
>“What’s up with your suspension?”
>“If you want to know something about me, ask away.”
>Write In.

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>>2699936

>>2699936
>“What happened to your brother?”
Then when he's done
>“If you want to know something about me, ask away.”

>>2699936
>“If you want to know something about me, ask away.”

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Before you ask some intimate question about what happened to his brother, you feel like it’s fitting to let him ask anything about you first.

“If you want to know something about me, ask away.” That’s how you open up to people, right?
“Why?” Richard asks immediately. “You already answered most of my questions back then. Why this now?"
“Why? Why not? And wasn’t I very vague about everything? Now my turn, I –”
“Woah, woah, woah. That’s not supposed to go… Let me ask you a real question first.” He interrupts you before you could end what you were saying.
“Alright…” You wanted to dig into the important stuff immediately, but this works.

“There is something that was bothering me since we talked to T.T. Neko… Wait, speaking of T.T. Neko…” He starts smiling a goofy smile. “Neko really was wearing those dirty rags back then, yeah? At the reunion?”
“Yep, she looked super disgusting.” She looked so embarrassed too, totally a NEET parasite like Nariko, except without the standards and noble grace.
“Haha! So I wasn't remembering wrong! What a repulsive woman…! E-Ehem.” He recovers his composure looking a bit embarrassed. Its easy to forget he's a guy around your age with how he is. “When you talked to Constance’s Judge demon, you apologized to her about something… A you-know-who. Could you be so kind as to explain to me what happened?”
Uh-oh, the Rise incident! Because of your high courage, you aren’t nervous about this – but you’re still concerned.

Before saying anything, remember: Richard was the one responsible for finding multiple bases of the defunct terrorist organization ‘The Hosts of Rebellion’. Reveling Yu Yan’s true identity could be dangerous, and you risked everything for her. So with this in mind…

What do you do?

>Explain very vaguely what happened. No need to give him details that he doesn’t need to know.
>Be completely honest with him, stressing how she's a completely different person now. Hopefully, he will value your honesty.
>Refuse to tell this information. It’s not something you can give away easily, especially since Yu Yan is two floors up in your apartment.
>Lie! Why not? Maybe if you trust him later you’ll tell him the truth, but not now.
>Write In.

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>>2700036

>>2700036
>"Rise attacked our group, I stopped her, try to have her flame removed, saw she was in pain, stopped the procedure, and caused her to have severe memory loss by accident."

>>2700036
>Be completely honest with him, stressing how she's a completely different person now. Hopefully, he will value your honesty.
And >>2700043

>>2700036
>Be completely honest with him, stressing how she's a completely different person now. Hopefully, he will value your honesty.
>Then tell him she is just a grumpy hobo that lives with us.....more like mooching, but we're working on that.

>>2700036
>>2700052
This to>>2700043
since it might not be covered with explaining everything.

>>2700036
>Be completely honest with him, stressing how she's a completely different person now. Hopefully, he will value your honesty.
Stress that she can no longer regain her previous memories. Refuse to give her location.

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You decided to be completely honest with him! You explained to him how Rise attacked your group, you stopped her, and the flame removing process went wrong – you make her suffer severe memory loss by accident, and then had it fixed. You stress that she’s a completely different person and her memories are forever lost now… so technically, she's not even the same person anymore!

"…So basically now she’s just a grumpy hobo that's living in a secure place… More mooching than living, but I’m working on it.” You finally stop explaining and give him a thumb up. What a tale full of twists.
“Can I check on her?” Richard wonders, looking up at the rest of the apartment building, knowing you live somewhere in there (the third floor) but not where. He wants to make sure what you are saying is true.
“I don’t feel like it’s right to leave Craig's place right now. Either way, she's doing fine.” It’s not too important now.
“I just want to make sure she’s no threat. That's all."
“Trust me, she’s only a threat to herself and maybe Nariko.” You respond in jest. “It’s a joke by the way. Rise is totally harmless now.”

Richard doesn’t seem convinced, but he sighs his worries away. “Nariko, that girl… How are things going with her?”
“It’s a bit of a long story, but we’re almost done with her.”
“You trusted me with this valuable information, and you seem too attached to both to give this sort of thing away without a degree of responsibility. What gives?”
“I feel responsible, that’s the best way I can put it.”
“What a strange sense of duty…” He looks away at the bright cityscape.
“Are you really one to talk?”
“You don’t know me that well.”
“But I’m right, right?”
“That type of attitude is going to bite you later; I know it hasn’t helped me.” He says in a melancholic tone.
“See, you’re totally the type.” You lightly elbow him in the side.
“Heh, suit yourself.” He brushes off his arm, embarrassed. “Alright, it’s only fair for you to ask me something, so go for it.”

“Well, it also about what happened with Neko. She talked about your brother, right? What happened?”
“…” He seems profoundly saddened.
“You don’t have to answer me.” But oh boy, you wish he does!
“Promise me you will never tell a soul about this. If you do, well – you and I both know I already know too much about you, and I can destroy any of your plans on a whim.”
“I know. But you wouldn’t do that, right? …Right?”
“I won’t. For now.” He’s really not that friendly, is he?

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>>2700303

“Here goes… I used to have a younger brother, Mickey… he was 13. He was the only family I had, and he was a big reason to endure the police at work for the money to keep us afloat. We were very close, and we only had each other – nothing was easy for us, but we kept going forward despite everyone around trying to drag us down. Fundamentally we were two completely different people, but I did what I could to enjoy the same hobbies he did. Its the reason why I know how to play that silly card game.” He's smiling, but his eyes look like Amelia's when she thinks about Mom.

“This is the part where it gets dark, isn’t it?” Not a panic response, but at maybe another point it would have been.
“Dark is certainly one way to put it, isn't it?” He took it rather well. “One of the other hobbies my brother had was playing arcade machines. Did you know about the incident at the ‘Pitfall Arcade’ on the other side of the city? Well, my little brother died that day – he was caught by the third explosion.” Isn’t that the same explosion you completely ignored like an asshole? The same explosion Jamie, Gunther and Wilvy died in? Whoops!

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>>2700306

“…” You stare at him intently, knowing what it feels like when a family member explodes right in front of you… This is the strangest thing you can relate to with anyone.
“I went that night to the station… Took the revolver from my desk. Put three cartridges in there, and left it to fate…” He makes the motion, looking absolutely haunted. He’s staring at your soul. “That’s when I met Yomiel after I fainted. That’s my story. The Hosts of Rebellion were responsible for the explosion, so I threw myself into hunting them down over sleepless weeks. Every base, every hideout, every getaway, every single little trace I had the labs work on to get me closer to them. I have no regrets about the work I put in against them after all that."

He rubs his eyes and focuses on you. "There's more to it and you may be interested in that… But it’s your turn. Tell me your story or show me where Rise is; your decision.”

You feel you owe him a response, after that.

>Tell him your own not-so-tragic backstory!
>Tell him Yu Yan’s location!
>"Sorry about your loss."
>“You didn’t need to go that deep, you know? I got the point at the explosion part.”
>Stare at him silently.
>Write In.

>>2700312
Last reply of the day, we continue tomorrow!

>>2700312
>Tell him your own not-so-tragic backstory!

>>2700312
>Tell him your own not-so-tragic backstory!

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>>2700312
Forgot to post this.

>>2700312
>Tell him your own not-so-tragic backstory!
Yeah.....lets not show him where Yu Yan is.

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You feel after hearing his tragic backstory that its only appropriate to tell him your tragic backstory! The sad tale of a young man and his sister losing their mother at a young age, then being cast aside from the family – and the new father being such a cunt…

“Pfft…!” Richard is trying to contain his laughter.
“…?” You stare at the guy. "What the fuck are you doing, man?"
“It’s just… Pffft…!” He tries to hold it in, but here it comes. “Hahahaha! I’m so sorry! B-but did she really spin in the air?! Like she was some trapeze expert doing aerial cartwheels?! Hahahahaha!”
“You are such a class-A cunt, you know that?” You're not afraid to say that to his face!
“No… hahaha, I’m sorry… haha! I just… have a vivid imagination. That's all.” He’s apologizing in between breaths. You don’t really care.
“Hey, when you told me about your dumbass brother, it was sad and shit. Even the stupid sky cried and his ghost appeared like that one movie, but when I tell you about my mother, you think it’s fucking funny?”
“I’m sorry!” He keeps laughing uncontrollably. “I’m 100% sorry. Really!”
“Fuck. Off.” The hell is this guy's problem?!
“W-wait, I don’t really mean it.” He slaps himself hard to regain his composure, almost punching. “I’m really, really sorry.”
You rudely turn your back to him and start walking. “Just leave me alone.”

You two hear a sudden commotion inside the apartment. It appears a winner has been decided! Because of your bad mood, you decided to check it out without thinking twice. There seems to be a lot of suffering around the poker table.

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>>2702095

“C’mon, grow up.” Craig tells the depressed crowd as he’s ready to hand his mysterious box to the victor.
“Look who's talkin’!” Sewel rests his arm on Craig's head, showing the size disparity.
“Haha… Real funny, Sewel.” Craig is about to lose his cool.
“Who won?” You get closer to Roger. Richard trails behind, still looking apologetic.
Roger just sighs and gestures at the table. “Just take a look…” He doesn’t seem too thrilled.

“All that… just for this…?!” Osgood lies defeated on the playing table, speechless.
“Fuck, fuck, fuck! It was all in my hands, and it just slipped away! One fucking grand! Why? WHYYYYYY?!” Helmaer repeatedly slams his fist on the poor table in agony. He switches to slamming his forehead into the table instead.
“That was fun.” Double J says without one care in the world.
“It was only a matter of time to recover my crown. I, once again, defeated the competition flawlessly.” Bradford's pompous tone speaks volumes. Shit, he won! The fatass actually fucking won! “I’m 1000 Gor$ richer thanks to you all!” He tries to bow, but his girth makes it difficult.

“So what’s in the box?” Conti addresses the elephant in the room.
“Ehem, Bradford… I have no idea how you won, but here it is kid.” Craig opens the box for Bradford and takes out what it looks to be a Championship Belt! Looks like some kind of old-school boxing one. Didn't old man Spice mention something about Craig…? “Give it up for your first ever undisputed Poker Champion: Bradford! Hope you come back to defend your title, or else we'll strip it from you by force. And we'll enjoy it.” Everyone stares at Bradford silently, you included.
“I’ll defend it with honor!” He says obliviously, as Craig does his best to put it around the fat man’s waist.
“Give it up for your new champ!” Craig yells in a mocking tone. Nobody reacts.

“...”Everyone stares at the undisputed champion. You can feel the animosity in the atmosphere. Conti, Helmaer, Sewel, Osgood, Jackson, you, even Richard! All of you are salty!
“…” Not even Jeff is in a good mood! If everyone knew the price was going to be a genuine title belt, everyone probably would have tried harder and screwed around less!
“Hey, uh, can I come back next time? I feel like I need to settle the score.” Richard asks in a casually dry tone.
“Same.” Double J nods and takes a few gulps of his soda. His demeanor is calm, but the hand holding the glass is visibly shaking.
“Yeah, sure…?” Craig blinks a few times, taking in the vicious looks around him. Now he finally realizes everyone is dead silent staring at the fatso. “…Are you guys alright?”

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>>2702102

Bradford grins as he takes the belt from his waist and raises it in the air. “C’mon! I want to hear your adulation and praise!

Never in your life have you heard a louder chorus of boos, especially all in an enclosed space like this. It helped you were participating with 6 other people this time, putting all your frustration from Richard's laughing into it too. Bradford’s moment is officially ruined as he endures the rash and unrelenting hatred of Poker Night. He stood still looking proud – but one little tear appeared on his round face.

Its time to finally say good bye! Most of the people are aboard the team’s van, sans the little group that came with Sewel.

Before leaving with Osgood Bradford and Jackson, Richard once again apologizes and asks you if you could meet with him one of these days… You evasively tell him you'd think about it, brushing him off at the same time. What a twat! As you turn to head over to Osgood's group, you spot Double J and Craig having a conversation. Of course you walk near and eavesdrop…

“Did you really have a good time?” Craig asks him, relaxed.
“I did. Sorry for trying to run away at the start there.” He replies very politely.
“Haha! We play every Saturday, except maybe the next. I’m probably going to be busy then.”

It would be wise to go back upstairs to your home, right?

>Say good-bye to them and go back home!
>Maybe you could join in the chat? You like meeting people.
>Write In.

>>2702111
>Say good-bye to them and go back home!

>>2702111
>Say good-bye to them and go back home!
We're done here. Time to go to sleep and meet up with Constance and Athelone

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“Good-bye guys.” You wave at them as you go back to your apartment.
“Take care, I’ll tell you if we play during the week.” Craig says with a grin.
“Bye, good luck next time.” The chill man says. Luck?! You were cheated! CHEATED OF YOUR RIGHTFUL CROWN! THAT BELT HAD YOUR NAME WRITTEN, BUT THOSE LIARS, SONS OF A— Ehem… You should stop thinking about this.

You’re back at your apartment with an unexpected guest! It’s Amelia and she’s playing video games with your hobos! How dare they?! At least she’s playing with Yu Yan. Nariko seems to be giving Amelia a massage…

“Ehem.” You fake-cough out loud.
“Johnny!” Amelia pauses the game and gets excited! She gets closer to you and grabs your nose. “Where were you? I was worried! You didn’t tell the girls where you went!” If she was so worried, why didn't she call you?
“With my friends…? I told them that much.” Why are you excusing yourself with your sister? “And don’t talk to me like that.” You grab your sister by the arms like a long cat and put her back in her spot on the couch.
“Ouch, ouch, ouch! My body's still sore from practice!” Amelia struggles a little.
“Anyway, did you girls eat? I’m pretty hungry.”
“No.” Nariko rapidly responds.

“Yes, we did. Stop lying you fatty.” Yu Yan corrects your OG Hobo. Did she just lie to you? She never lied to you before! “You even cooked it! There are some leftovers in the fridge by the way.” Yu Yan is being strangely useful.
“Nariko knows how to cook?” You ask.
“Muscle memory doesn't get erased like actual memory, remember?"
“I don’t think that’s how muscle memory is supposed to work.” What? That's a thing? Maybe Yu Yan still being skilled with knives isn't quite the joke you expected it to be…
“I was thinking the same thing, but she did it. Who are we to complain?” Amelia just shrugs and continues the vidya.
“That’s not the point… Whatever.” You go to the kitchen and microwave the leftovers. After eating, the obvious problem arises!

“I’m going to spend the night here, so… Where do I sleep?” Amelia looks around. Sleep time is approaching.
“The couch you're sitting on right now.” You point at it.
“B-but my body hurts! I need a good night's sleep. Besides, don’t we continue tomorrow? I need to be in top condition!” Amelia rejects the couch!
"You got a better idea, Amelia?"
“For Yu Yan to sleep on the couch.”
Yu Yan jumps off the couch and spins to Amelia. “What?! Why me?! I thought we were friends, Ame!” Betrayal!
“Isn’t it obvious?” Amelia adjusts her glasses just like you. “Nariko understands what personal space is! Besides, you’re the rookie here!”
“I don’t care. I’m going to go to sleep. Figure this out.” You cut her off. After that Poker Night travesty, you just wanna sleep already!

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>>2702526

“T-then, I’ll sleep with Johnny!” Yu Yan it fully aware of the innuendo. You stop dead in your tracks and turn to her. "A dream come true for both of us, huh Johnny?" She winks at you and raises her leg trying to be sexy.
“I sleep alone.” You tell the mischievous girl as deadpan as possible. No. Not dealing with this now.
“Yeah besides, he would sleep with me, just like the good old days when our apartment was too little. Thank god we got a house.” Amelia says with a smile on her face. That was when you were 6, now it’s totally different. Besides, Amelia sometimes snores and she’s annoying to deal with.
“S-stop spouting nonsense! The three of us can fit on the big bed easily.” Nariko interrupts everyone and settles the dispute. “You two are incredibly small! Adorably miniscule!” Why is she mad at them?
“…” Amelia looks sad for some reason.
“…” Yu Yan looks sad too for some reason.
“Good. I’ll see you in the morning. Good night.” You wave them off, not caring. You're too tired and depleted to care.
“D-dear Johnny! Don’t forget your pills!” Nariko runs to the kitchen again for a glass of water. By the way she looks, she ate not too long ago…

What a quiet night! Tomorrow you are going to deal with training again, which you're feeling better about than before. But first, you and your favorite mummy are going to have a chat together in your dreams. Or is it her dreams? How does this even work? Why does everything except this get a logical answer? Whatever…

And who would have guessed? It’s Athelone and Constance! The little girl is in high spirits and the horrifying monster doesn’t look too bothered.

“What do you think we're going to talk about, Johnny?” Philonune asks as the other two approach.
“I dunno, war stuff?”
“Still taking it easy, I see.”
“Not really. I’m getting a little nervous to be honest.” You shake yourself off. Why are you worrying? All you have to do is keep doing your best, and you'll live, right? Whatever it takes…

Sadly this is all the time we have for this week! See you next thread! Thanks for playing!

>>2702530
This was a good thread