Another Excellent piece of work!
Regardless of which belief power won, I had hoped we'd see some badassery and thats what we've got.
Can we suborn the Dullahan? I mean she doesn't need her head to work for us and if we can nab it and hide it... Also having an additional supernatural creature around to protect our little elder abomination would be useful even if it's coerced.
Questionable enslavement aspiration aside:
[X]Let them off with a warning. You'll let them both go, but you'll make sure they understand to never ever come here again. (Decrease Notoriety)
[X] Go shopping: You've got some cash. Wouldn't hurt to spend a little bit of it. (Spend Money to purchase items or food) (Low Food!)
[X] Perception: (We really need to be able to see stuff coming)
-[X] Focus on perceiving People (Work towards Perk for spotting others before they see you)
[X] Take Anastasia out somewhere: You can't keep her cooped up in the house forever. (Raise Trust/Satiety with Child even more. May cost Money depending on where you go)
-[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable.
[X] Ask for a day off: Hey, your only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss)
It gives us a reputation, or at least the start of one. A terrifying reputation can act as an amazing shield against your enemies. On one hand you can face some no name guy with a freaky magic daughter or you face a father who is merciless towards those that threaten his family which has a freaky magical monster in it. Which would you rather fight?
Can we suborn the Dullahan? I mean she doesn't need her head to work for us and if we can nab it and hide it... Also having an additional supernatural creature around to protect our little elder abomination would be useful even if it's coerced.
Most Mythics tend to stay away from each other. Even after all this time, there's still that predator/prey mentality many of them evolved with from the beginning of life. As such, getting multiples of them in one place is kind of difficult.
It is possible, and nowadays a lot of them have put that aside to form organizations.
But...it's kind of like sleeping in the same house with that one dude who ate your great-great-great grandparents all those years ago.
Things can get....awkward.
That said, you can get multiple supernaturals in your house. Just hope you can afford what it will cost to feed them.
-[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable.
[X]Let them off with a warning. You'll let them both go, but you'll make sure they understand to never ever come here again. (Decrease Notoriety)
[X] Go shopping: You've got some cash. Wouldn't hurt to spend a little bit of it. (Spend Money to purchase items or food) (Low Food!)
[X] Perception: (We really need to be able to see stuff coming)
-[X] Focus on perceiving People (Work towards Perk for spotting others before they see you)
[X] Take Anastasia out somewhere: You can't keep her cooped up in the house forever. (Raise Trust/Satiety with Child even more. May cost Money depending on where you go)
-[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable.
[X] Ask for a day off: Hey, your only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss)
[X]Tell them to send a message. It's clear that the both of them are "in" with the supernatural community (if there is one), and that someone sent them here for Ana. Why else would they just attack your house in the middle of a rainstorm with no explanation? Sending them with a message could get whoever sent them off your back.
-[X] This is a safe zone for families and normal people, your petty squabbles and prejudices have no place here. Never come back if you want to keep your lives.
[X] Call Rivauld: Ok..you can do this. (Improve Ms. R SL)
[X] Take Anastasia out somewhere: You can't keep her cooped up in the house forever. (Raise Trust/Satiety with Child even more. May cost Money depending on where you go)
-[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable.
[X] Ask for a day off: Hey, your only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss)
[X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
The woman is shocked for about three seconds and that's all the time you need. You step into her guard, shattering a force field of some kind she put up around herself. It tingles as you burst through it, confident that nothing can or will stop you. She tries to bring her hand around to your face, purple energy crackling across the palm. You lift up your left arm and force it back. Your right hits her in the trachea with a swift palm strike.
Badass! It seems Howie took an elementary course of hand-to-hand combat at some point, or his powers also give him knowledge of the human body's weak points.
Lol that. Good thing we didn't go with the Asura power.
[x]Tell them to send a message. It's clear that the both of them are "in" with the supernatural community (if there is one), and that someone sent them here for Ana. Why else would they just attack your house in the middle of a rainstorm with no explanation? Sending them with a message could get whoever sent them off your back.
-[x] This is a safe zone for families and normal people, your petty squabbles and prejudices have no place here. Never come back if you want to keep your lives.
[x] Call Rivauld: Ok..you can do this. (Improve Ms. R SL)
[X] Take Anastasia out somewhere: You can't keep her cooped up in the house forever. (Raise Trust/Satiety with Child even more. May cost Money depending on where you go)
-[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable.
[X] Ask for a day off: Hey, your only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss) [X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
We really need all of the help possible now, more than improving our eyesight IMO.
Edit: Ok, now to roll! Had to do the Tally again since I used the wrong Threadmark.
Ok, so we're taking Ana somewhere, going shopping, taking the day off, and Practicing Powers.
Oh, and training Physical Might.
Adhoc vote count started by LinkOnScepter on Apr 9, 2017 at 6:31 PM, finished with 6 posts and 3 votes.
[X] Take Anastasia out somewhere: You can't keep her cooped up in the house forever. (Raise Trust/Satiety with Child even more. May cost Money depending on where you go)
-[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable.
[X]Tell them to send a message. It's clear that the both of them are "in" with the supernatural community (if there is one), and that someone sent them here for Ana. Why else would they just attack your house in the middle of a rainstorm with no explanation? Sending them with a message could get whoever sent them off your back.
-[X] This is a safe zone for families and normal people, your petty squabbles and prejudices have no place here. Never come back if you want to keep your lives.
[X] Perception: (We really need to be able to see stuff coming)
-[X] Focus on perceiving People (Work towards Perk for spotting others before they see you)
[X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
[X] Ask for a day off: Hey, your only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss) [X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
Adhoc vote count started by LinkOnScepter on Apr 9, 2017 at 6:35 PM, finished with 534 posts and 3 votes.
[X] Take Anastasia out somewhere: You can't keep her cooped up in the house forever. (Raise Trust/Satiety with Child even more. May cost Money depending on where you go)
-[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable.
[X]Tell them to send a message. It's clear that the both of them are "in" with the supernatural community (if there is one), and that someone sent them here for Ana. Why else would they just attack your house in the middle of a rainstorm with no explanation? Sending them with a message could get whoever sent them off your back.
-[X] This is a safe zone for families and normal people, your petty squabbles and prejudices have no place here. Never come back if you want to keep your lives.
[X] Perception: (We really need to be able to see stuff coming)
-[X] Focus on perceiving People (Work towards Perk for spotting others before they see you)
[X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
[X] Ask for a day off: Hey, your only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss) [X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
Adhoc vote count started by LinkOnScepter on Apr 9, 2017 at 6:35 PM, finished with 16 posts and 10 votes.
[X] Take Anastasia out somewhere: You can't keep her cooped up in the house forever. (Raise Trust/Satiety with Child even more. May cost Money depending on where you go)
-[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable.
[x]Tell them to send a message. It's clear that the both of them are "in" with the supernatural community (if there is one), and that someone sent them here for Ana. Why else would they just attack your house in the middle of a rainstorm with no explanation? Sending them with a message could get whoever sent them off your back. -[x] This is a safe zone for families and normal people, your petty squabbles and prejudices have no place here. Never come back if you want to keep your lives.
[X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
[X] Perception: (We really need to be able to see stuff coming)
-[X] Focus on perceiving People (Work towards Perk for spotting others before they see you)
[X] Ice cold, calm rage. You're not sure why, but you feel calmer than you have in years. Oh you're angry. No doubt about that. But it's the calm kind of anger. The kind where you can think of nothing, but how to most efficiently destroy the bitch standing in front of you and her pet monster. (Belief Power: Tranquil Fury)
[X] Physical: You're gonna need to learn how to defend not just yourself, but your little girl now. -[X] Focus on Offense (Work towards Perk for Offensive Combat) [X] Go shopping: You've got some cash. Wouldn't hurt to spend a little bit of it. (Spend Money to purchase items or food) (Low Food!)
[X]Let them off with a warning. You'll let them both go, but you'll make sure they understand to never ever come here again. (Decrease Notoriety) -[X] Call in to work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia. Maybe she'd like to see a museum? It's probably best to ask her if there's anywhere in the city she'd like to go, just you and her. Also, got to remember that cult. Avoiding them will be tricky but doable. [X] Go shopping: You've got some cash. Wouldn't hurt to spend a little bit of it. (Spend Money to purchase items or food) (Low Food!) [X] Physical: You're gonna need to learn how to defend not just yourself, but your little girl now. -[X] Focus on Offense (Work towards Perk for Offensive Combat) [X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
[X] Ask for a day off: Hey, your only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss) [X] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
Hmm, I wonder if Moronis will add something like a newspaper article regarding the "Psychic Girl" in his quest. Would be interesting at the very least.
Hmm, I wonder if Moronis will add something like a newspaper article regarding the "Psychic Girl" in his quest. Would be interesting at the very least.
[X] Ask for a day off: Hey, you're only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss)
-[X] Call into work and get a mental health day, spend the day with Anastasia.
You've got your phone in one hand and an ice pack in the other. Groaning slightly, you massage the bag of ice into your aching skull while your other hand flips through your phone until you get to the Big Green's number.
It rings but once, before you hear that same holly jolly voice of your boss on the other line, "Craft! Good to hear from you my boy!"
"Hello, Principal—wait, how'd you know it was me?" you'd thought that the guy would've forgotten your number amidst the multitudes that he has to keep track of everyday. After all, what's one random call from a teacher who works for you to a call from the Superintendent themselves?
You hear the sound of a car door opening and closing on the other line, "Don't you know? I keep all my teacher's numbers in my phone, named and in alphabetical order in case any of them to call me for anything. Organization, Craft! It's what runs the world!"
Suppose you can't argue with that. Partly because the man's got a point, and he's also your boss, "Actually, sir, I called to talk to you about something important."
"Well, then, don't keep me in suspense! Let's have it!" the sound of the glass doors that make up the entrance to Crossroads sound through the phone. Thing is, you don't hear any of the normal hustle and bustle of the hallways. Hmmm, he must get up really earlier to be able to get their before anyone else. That's dedication. "Speaking of which, can you believe this weather!? Three severe thunderstorms, three days straight! That's just crazy! Oh well, all that means for you is giving your kids extra work to do, huh?"
"You see, sir, I actually wanted to talk to you about that," your head pounds to remind you of why you're calling. You wince, holding the bag of ice a bit firmer on your head, "I was thinking of taking the day off today."
Your boss doesn't seem to react, of course you can't exactly tell that since you're talking to him through a phone. Still, when he next speaks you can't help but notice that his tone has a tiny bit of an edge to it. Not enough to cause you alarm, but it's there, "Really? What could that be for? I mean, you're one of the main teachers who comes to work everyday. Is something wrong?"
"Oh nothing too serious," you answer trying to ignore your headache, "Just a bit of mental stress is all. I've had this serious migraine since the storms started, and I was thinking of taking some medicine for it. I'll be in tomorrow though! For sure!"
The other line is silent for an uncomfortable two minutes. Then, Mr. Watson's voice comes through all cheery again, "That's perfectly reasonable, my boy! I've been meaning to tell you to use of some of your vacation days anyway!"
"Yeah, well—wait. I have vacation days!?" This is the first you've heard of that!
"Every teacher does! I have to be sure I give them their time off, or else the Brass is gonna come down on my head for slave driving!" he laughs haughtily at that joke.
"Oh yes, one thing. Since you've been out for so long, I've decided to send you're paycheck to you by mail. It should be getting there by today. Don't spend it all in one place now!"
You sigh, thank Mr. Watson for listening to you, and say your goodbyes. He wishes you good health, and hangs up.
You lean back on the sofa, closing your eyes as the cooling ice relieves some of your pain. As you do, your thoughts go back to last night. Your mind slowly recreates the scene in front of your eyelids, as they start to close.
(+2 Money)
[X] Tell them to send a message. It's clear that the both of them are "in" with the supernatural community (if there is one), and that someone sent them here for Ana. Why else would they just attack your house in the middle of a rainstorm with no explanation? Sending them with a message could get whoever sent them off your back.
-[X] This is a safe zone for families and normal people, your petty squabbles and prejudices have no place here. Never come back if you want to keep your lives.
You crouch down so that you're level with the woman's face. Her eyes are still closed, and her breathing makes her body rise slightly off the floor before falling back down again. You stare at her for a long time, eyes flicking across every small detail that will let you subdue her if she wakes up and decides that antagonizing you further is a good idea.
Satisfied with that, you turn your attention to the Dullahan. It's right arm is missing, and so is it's left leg. Apparently the pieces scattered after you broke whatever connection it was that kept them up and running. At least that meant the creature was less of a threat, but it didn't make you feel safe. Looking past the body, you stand up and walk towards where the head rolled under your curtains.
Picking it up, you find that it is not all that heavy. You expected a human head to weigh more, but this thing is as light as a feather. It's eyes and mouth are still closed, which disturbs you more than how cold it's skin is. This thing hasn't woken up even after everything that happened to it back there? Strange.
Putting the head underneath your left arm, you walk back over to the unconscious person. Crouching low again, you put a hand on her back and start to shake her, "Excuse me. Wake up please. You're kind of in the way of my front door."
After about five shakes, the woman starts to groan. You take your hand away while she props herself up on one elbow. Since she fell face first, whatever makeup she was wearing has come undone. Purple eyeshadow and lipstick are smeared across her face. Her dimples and hair are fine though. She sits up straight and starts to rub her eyes with her hands.
"What...happened?" she sounds drowsy, like she just woke up from a long nap. You suppose she kind of did.
Putting on your best smile, you look her in the violet eyes before answering, "Multiple things." You take one hand and start counting off, "First, you broke into my house. Second, you tried to kidnap my daughter. Third, you slapped my daughter. And fourth, I showed you why the third thing you did was a very bad idea."
It takes a few seconds before your words sink in, but when the do you see her eyes go wide with terror. Perfect. "Good. You're starting to see your position here."
Her eyes narrow before she replies, "So what? You got the drop on me once, doesn't mean it will happen—"
Before she finishes you hit her in the trachea again. She grabs her throat, struggling to breath, but still staring you down with defiance in her eyes. You just keep your smile up, "You were saying?"
"Fine," she chokes out, causing her to cough again, "what do you want?"
The Dullahan starts to get up by this point, pushing itself up by its remaining arm. It seems to be able to see well enough without a head, so it's no surprise when it instantly starts to reach for you. You grab its head in both hands and hold it above your head. You hear a hissing sound, and smell sulfur. You guess that Ana must be aiming an energy blast right at the head, as the Dullahan backs down.
You nod, and turn back to the woman, smile gone, "I want you gone. I don't know who sent you or if you're working for someone, and I don't care. However you found out about me and my daughter, know this. This neighborhood is a safe haven. It is a place of peace, for families and others who just want to live their lives."
You make sure that you've got her undivided attention, "Whatever your petty squabbles or prejudices, they have no place here. Leave. And never come back. And if you do…"
You lean in until your face is close to her ear. You make sure that your every word is said with as much conviction as you can muster, making sure your warning is believed.
"Your lives are forfeit."
Then, as quick as you can, you move back from the woman. You stand up, eyes still on her face that gives off no clue as to what she's thinking. Though judging by the fact that her nails are currently trying to dig ruts in the floor, you think you got to her.
You toss the Dullahan it's head, which it deftly grabs with its remaining arm. You back away until they are both in your field of vision. Then you take one hand, and point towards the front door.
"Now, get out of my house."
They had left soon after, the Dullahan apparently able to just put itself back together. You've got no idea how it knew where all the pieces to it's body parts were, but you won't question it. They're both gone and you can relax.
Hopefully they, and who or whatever sent them, gets your message.
(Notoriety of both Ana and Howard Decreased! Alarm Slightly Decreased!)
Spending Time with Ana Roll: 85 + 15 (A Bond) - 10 (The News) = 90 High Success
Your headache soon abates enough for you to take Ana out somewhere. It's your day off after all! Why not spend it with your favorite person?!
For once, you decide to let Ana decide where the both of you should go. When she questions you why, you say that it's because you've been the one deciding where the both of you hang out lately.
That, and you're sick of the park.
So it comes that you find yourself in the Vade Mecum Library. You're currently standing with your back to the counter of the main desk watching Anastasia as she dashes back and forth between different sections. You sigh with pride at her readiness to read. Reminds you of yourself when you were younger.
Being a public library, Vade is much more formal and cleaner than Bram Stoker. Though the place will always hold a place in your heart, that place is limited by the fact that it's a Middle School Library. That means that most of the books are there for either entertainment or school projects. Top that off with the fact that some of the kids don't return their books, and you've got a pretty standard school library.
Here? Everything is way more professional. You still need a library card to be able to check out books, but you were expected to bring them back. Not just that, but if you missed the due date they are legally obligated to fine you. Understandable, considering that some of these books must cost a pretty penny.
Even the atmosphere of the building was different. Instead of the green and school like feeling of Bram Stoker, Vade seemed to have a bit more of a homely feeling. It made you feel like they welcomed everyone here, no matter who you were.
You're interrupted from your musings when you hear whispering off to your left. Not wanting to seem obvious, you slowly move your eye to look that way. What you see is some little boy pointing at you while tugging at his father's jacket. Thankfully, his dad seems to be in a conversation with his wife about something, because he keeps pushing the kid's hand away. It's hard to hear the kid since he's a good feet away from you across the polished wood floor, but you do catch snippets here and there. Most sound like "That man from TV" and "His weird daughter".
You inwardly sigh. That's something you're probably gonna have to deal with as long as you two are in the New's eye. Thankfully, you've been able to avoid any journalist or crazy cultist for now, but who knows how long that will be.
You hear the sound of leather covers hitting hard wood and turn to see Ana placing about three books on the counter along with her newly obtained library card.
All of them are over 500 pages in length.
You look over at the librarian, an old man who seems to be in his late 50s to early 60s, and suppress a laugh as he gazes at the three large books. He looks over at the covers and his facial features just keep getting more and more awed, "Human Psychology, Sociology, and Government Systems throughout Time! Young lady! Wouldn't you rather read something….more suited to your age?"
Ana holds her hands behind her back as she answers with that same matter of fact voice of hers, "I'm am merely attempting to pursue knowledge wherever I can find it. Isn't that a noble enough goal that it transcends age?" You notice she twirls a lock of her blond hair as she says this. Whether that's just an act or a habit she picked up, you've got no idea.
The man looks to you for reassurance, but you just shrug, "What can I say? She's a Prodigy."
The man (his name tag says his name is "Kurt") shakes his head as he types something into his computer. You think you hear him mutter, "Kids these days," as he rings you up.
(Ana now has books on Human Psychology, Sociology, and Government Systems throughout History!)
A couple of minutes after your visit to the Library, you hear a knock at the door.
Strange. You didn't invite anyone over today.
Your body tenses up. It can't be those two, can it?!
There's no way they could be back so quickly!
Is it someone new?! Will you be able to stop them this time?!
Your slowly walk towards the front door. Your mind examines your front door, and you're halfway through preparing to punch through it using a weak spot around the keyhole, when a voice comes from the other side.
A familiar one.
"Hey! Craft! Open up will ya? I brought the family with me!"
Your adrenaline stops pumping and you smile as you grab the door handle. When you open it, you see Volkar with his two wives under his arms at your front porch. He's got his biker outfit on again, and it seems Maeve is wearing a matching one as well. Barbara is being more modest and wearing a simple blue dress with sequins in the skirt.
Volkar holds his hand out and you grab it as firmly as you can manage, powering through his strong grip, "Volkar! Come on in! What are you guys doing here?" You let go of the werewolf's hand and step aside, admitting the three into your house. Four you discover, when Chester rushes past his parent's legs laptop in hand. Does that kid ever let that thing go?
You close and lock the door, going to greet the guest. Wow! This is the first time you've ever had them over here! Better make a good first impression!
You walk over to Volkar and put a hand on his shoulder to get his attention. He turns around to look at you and says, "So, this is the inside of your house huh?"
"Yeah, pretty simple I know," you humbly admit, "but hey it keeps us alive and safe."
"True," Maeve chimes in from the living room, testing the cushions on your couch with a foot, "but it doesn't seem like there's much to—" Suddenly all four lycanthropes stand at attention.
You see Volkar's eyes narrow, and his nose goes into overdrive. He steps around you to sniff near the front door, "Why does it smell like death in here?"
Oh boy. That's not you is it? You did just shower today after all. You sniff under your arms to be sure, and are relieved when you're right. The four werewolves all start to converge on a single spot on the floor. The spot where you knocked down th—oh.
Barbara is the first to speak, her dog like ears visibly pointing up on her head, "Was there a...Dullahan here?"
"Why yes, there was," Ana says from the kitchen. She's taken the time to look up from one of her new books to look your way. "In fact, my dear father was the one who took care of both it and it's master."
You feel a shiver down your spine for some reason. You turn and see that all of your guest's eyes are on you now. Feeling slightly self conscious at the attention, you put a hand on the back of your neck while chuckling slightly, "Well, you see what actually happened was," and so you told them the events of last night. Surprisingly, they listen to your every word, even following you into the kitchen to hear the rest of it.
Unfortunately, you didn't expect to ever have more than two people in your house at a time, so the Harrowmonts had to go without chairs. Didn't seem to bother them a lick though. They all kept their attention on you through the whole tale.
"And so, I told them to leave or their lives are forfeit," you end, drinking from your cup of milk. You'll have to get more when you head to Walmart later. Urgh. You're dreading that.
The Harrowmont's are silent for a while. They seem to be digesting your story. Volkar keeps looking between Maeve and Barbara, having a secret conversation of sorts at the table. It makes you feel slightly uncomfortable truth be told.
Chester, on the other hand, is looking at you with that shine in his eyes you recognize as unending admiration. He's on the left side of the table with Anastasia, and smiling so much that you can see his canines, his tail is wagging beneath him. He's the first to break the silence, shouting out with so much enthusiasm, "That is so cool! Ana, how much of that was true?!" he sounds like he's asking merely to be polite rather than actually doubting you.
Ana, the picture of innocence, smiles at her friend and nods, "That's right. Every single word. He was so gallant, weren't you father?"
Et tu, Anastasia?
"I don't know about that," you try to hide your face into your cup. Seriously, it's not that big a deal.
Volkar comes over to you, his shadow falling over you from your left side. You look up into the face of a smiling man. He puts a firm hand on your shoulder, "Congrats, Howard. You've surprised me."
"Huh?"
"We thought we had ya pegged, fella," Maeve points to herself, Barbara, and then Volkar, "we figured you was one of them...what do you call it, Barbs?"
Barbara looks you in the eye and says with complete confidence, "A lover not a fighter."
"That's it. We thought that the minute real trouble came a knocking, you'd get knocked on your keester. Instead, we come over to find out you took on a Dullahan and her master and won. You've got some serious machismo." she makes a cupping gesture that makes you wince, but you don't move much thanks to Volkar's grip.
Barbara speaks next, "I'd have to agree. I originally asked Volky to come with me and watch over you while you slept. But, looks like I was just being paranoid."
Before you're able to comment on that last bit, Volkar nods at both of his wives and turns back to you, "From this day forth, let it be known that you have my respect Craft. Not many men would've stood up to an Undertaker, let alone attack one with little more than their fist and win. If there's anything you need help with, just give me a call."
The lycanthrope says this with so much confidence that you can't help but believe him. You even see his family all nod to you to cement the declaration. You feel this swell of pride at being so..respected. Especially amongst werewolves! Briefly, you wonder if you should tell them about the Eldritch Abomination under the school and the cult, but figure it would be better said at a later date. You remember hearing something about Chester saying that his family had serious problems with the Eldritch in the past.
Best to not bring it up when it might ruin relations now.
(Volkar and his Family Respect you! They are ready to offer help if asked! SLs Increased! Chester Idolizes you now! New Action: Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Get Harrowmont Assistance when Investigating the School))
Physical: You're gonna need to learn how to defend not just yourself, but your little girl now.
-Focus on Offense (Work towards Perk for Offensive Combat)
Roll: 41 = Success
You remember your plans for the rest of the day and figure that Volkar could probably help you with your training. He's a strong guy after all, "Actually, could you help me out right now? I was thinking of trying to improve my physique. You know, make it easier to hurt people if I have to. Think you could help me with that?"
Volkar's smile gets downright sinister and you know you've made a big mistake, "No problem, Howard. I'll be happy to help."
You look around the table for assistance, but everyone seems to have taken an interest in something else. Even Ana is looking at Chester's laptop as they watch that show they did last time Chester was here.
Traitors! Why have you forsaken me?!?!
Volkar drags you into the living room, while you tell yourself it won't be that bad.
"Why do you have cinder blocks attached to your legs?!?" you say as you punch one of said blocks for the twentieth time. Your hands feel numb, and you're pretty sure the skin on the knuckles is cracking.
"Training," Volkar answers as if it's the simplest thing in the world, "Always need to stay in shape."
You groan loudly, regretting ever telling him about your plans.
This is not what you had in mind!
"Keep punching! Next time I'll bring steel girders!"
AAAAHHHHHAAAA!
(New Perk Gained: Power of the Fist (Beginner): Your hands feel so fucking sore now! (+10 to Combat Rolls where you use your fist as weapons))
Shopping:
[] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
[] How much do you buy? (1 Food = .5 Money)
[] Furniture: Coaches, cribs, and otherwise to spice up your living space.
[] New Coach: 2 Money
[] New Bed: 2 Money
[] New TV: 3 Money
[] Clothes: Need to have something to keep you warm in the winter.
[] Victorian Era Clothes (Why do they have this?): 2 Money
[] Young Child's Pop Clothes (Specialty T-Shirts, Ripped Jeans, etc.): 3 Money
[] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
[] Exercise Books (+5 to Physical Training): 2 Money
[] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[] Fantasy
[] Sci-Fi
[] Historic
[] Horror
[] Digital Entertainment: They say it rots your brain. You think that's a load of BS.
[] Star Wars (Episodes IV through VI): 3 Money
[] Gurren Lagann (Complete Series): 2 Money
[] Berserk (1997 version): 2 Money
[] LOTR (Fellowship through Return): 2 Money
Practice Powers: Roll 95 + 15 (Potential) = 110 Artificial Crit Success
You massage your bandaged hands, wincing when you touch a sensitive spot. Ana stands in front of you, concentrating on something important. You're currently in the living room, watching her as she tries to discover a new power or maybe improve upon an already existing one.
Hey, the last time she got the ability to create a blade arm out of her own skin. Who knows what other powers she can unlock?
You soon get your answer, when you see Eldritch Symbols appear on Ana's back. Startled, you prepare to jump to her defense, when a small green light shines on her back. It keep shrinking, getting smaller and smaller until it finally disappears after a few minutes.
In its place are four spider like appendages, each as long and thick as your right arm. They flex and writhe as Ana examines them each in turn. They have a greenish, grey pigmentation, with an exoskeleton and spines leading all the way to Ana's back. She starts to move them around, testing her control over them. They prove to be pretty dexterous, able to pick up far away objects without breaking or piercing them.
You breath a sigh of relief and sit back down, headache coming back in full force.
You go to sleep to the smell of sulfur as your daughter gets used to her new appendages. You feel something warm drape over your side. When you open your eyes, you see Ana cuddled up next to you on the couch. She's fast asleep, spider legs retracted into her back.
You smile, put a hand on her head, and let sleep take you.
(New Child Power Unlocked: Spider Legs: Crawling on Walls! Long Reach! Impalement! (When activated, can climb up buildings and otherwise without having to resort to flying! Also, adds a +15 to Combat Rolls.))
Days until Ana Matures: 3 Months
Your Actions: 2
[] Physical: You're gonna need to learn how to defend not just yourself, but your little girl now.
[] Focus on Offense (Work towards Perk for Offensive Combat)
[] Focus on Defense (Work towards Perk for Defensive Combat)
[] Mental: The Mind is a terrible thing to waste. And you are not gonna waste yours.
[] Focus on Mental Power (Work towards Perk for Mental Offenses)
[] Focus on Mental Fortitude (Work towards Perk for Mental Defenses)
[] Perception: You missed enough paper airplanes coming towards your head to know that you need to better your vision.
[] Focus on perceiving Objects (Work towards Perk for seeing things before they hit you)
[] Focus on perceiving People (Work towards Perk for spotting others before they see you)
[] Work on lesson plan: Always helps to be prepared for anything (+10 bonus to next Job roll)
[] Ask for a day off: Hey, your only human. You can only go on for so many days at a time. (+1 to Action for one day, but may worsen rep with boss)
[] Look for a new job: Maybe you should try to find one that pays a bit more (Possible new job opportunities)
[] Do some side work: More cash is always a good thing. (Add +2 to Money immediately)
[] Read the Journal: You really don't want to do this, but how else are you supposed to prepare? (Learn more about Anastasia and the Supernatural)
[] Visit the Harrowmonts: Time to talk to some wolves. (Learn more about Chester and his home life)
[] Have Hannah meet you after school: You've got a couple of questions for her. (???)
[] Dispelling Serious Rumors!: It's all a misunderstanding, really! (Decrease Alarm; Remove The News! Perk)
[] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[] Try to make some friends: Let's face it; you need friends. Let's see if you can makes some. (Possibly unlock friendships to be cultivated)
[] Call Rivauld: Ok..you can do this. (Improve Ms. R SL)
[] Go shopping: You've got some cash. Wouldn't hurt to spend a little bit of it. (Spend Money to purchase items or food) (Low Food!)
[] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[] Spend time with Anastasia: You are her father after all. (Raise Trust/Satiety with child)
[] Take Anastasia out somewhere: You can't keep her cooped up in the house forever. (Raise Trust/Satiety with Child even more. May cost Money depending on where you go)
-[] The Park (No Cost)
-[] The Mall (1-2 Money)
-[] A Gym (1 Money)
-[] Write in...(Be reasonable)
[] Go looking for trouble: This is probably a horrible idea. But...you just gotta know. (Try to find evidence of the Supernatural. Could lead to a battle.)
[] Ask Anastasia about Magic: Just because you can't use it, doesn't mean you can't learn about it. (Learn more about Magic. Possibly Unlock Magic Perks that will remain unusable until a Pact is made.)
[] As Anastasia about Belief: What could possibly go wrong? (???)
Anastasia's Actions: 1
[] Practice her powers: Ya lose it if you don't use it. (Anastasia practices getting a better handle on her powers and learning to what extent she can use them.)
[] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
[] Sense Eldritch: They are not getting into our house again. (Anastasia will use her Eldritch Powers to try to sense who or what is currently watching you. May lead to discovery of other Supernatural beings.)
[] Watch TV?: Who knows? She may actually learns something from it. (???)
[] Call Chester over for a playdate: He's her first friend, it would be a shame to keep them apart. (???)
Anastasia
Level 2
Parent: Howard Craft
Monster Type: Eldritch Abomination
Stats: Alarm 3, Notoriety 3, Trust 10, Satiety 8
Items:
Basket Crib
Young Child's Plain Clothes
Human Psychology Book
Sociology Book
Government Systems throughout History Book
Days Until she Mature's Again: 3 Months
Friends:
Chester Harrowmont: 5/10 SL
THING THAT SHOULD NOT BE: A baby eldritch horror that could grow up to be one of the deadliest things in all of existence isn't exactly something you can keep hidden from the supernatural crowd. As it grows into its powers, Child Notoriety will become easier to raise.
Human Form (Child): Need to look the part if you want to play the part. You have a humanoid form that allows you to blend in. No penalties to interactions with mortals, but a -15 to all rolls to use your powers. You now have a five year old form. +5 to interactions with other children.
Eldritch Form: Tentacles are optional. You have an eldritch form that lets you unleash your true power. +20 to rolls to use your powers, but any mortals you come in contact with immediately go insane unless they have sufficient willpower.
Aura of Horror: It's not my fault I literally smell like the end of the world! -15 to all rolls to remain hidden from supernatural entities.
Supernatural Senses: I see you! +15 to all rolls to sense supernatural entities.
Prodigy(Reading): Your eye's just fly across the page! Once you hit toddler age, +15 to all rolls to maintain information from reading.
Potential Unlocked: Now is the time to train! (As long as you are in Child state, gain a +15 to gaining a new Perk or Power)
Human's Will to Live(Beginner): A race so stubborn that they won't even die when killed! (+5 to Rolls when fighting a losing battle)
Put your trust in me: I have your back. (+5 to persuading others)
The News!: Fucking Vampires is what they are! (-10 to actions that could raise Alarm (going to the Park, a class roll, shopping, etc.) for Two Days!)
Physical Augmentation: Get Fit! (When activated, add +15 to Physical Combat)
Telekinesis/Telepathy: I can read your mind, and throw you around like a ragdoll! (When activated +15 to all Mental and Physical Combat)
Rituals: I hereby summon thee....whatever your name is. (Can perform rituals to someone Eldritch creatures)
Biological Augmentation: My body is a weapon! (When activated, +30 to Physical Combat)
Spider Legs: Crawling on Walls! Long Reach! Impalement! (When activated, can climb up buildings and otherwise without having to resort to flying! Also, adds a +15 to Combat Rolls.)
Energy Ball: Fire not included (+10 to all Combat Rolls)
Howard Craft
Level 1
Child: Anastasia the Eldritch Abomination
Job: Middle School Teacher
Health: Slightly Injured
Stats: Money 4, Sanity 10, Notoriety 2, Actions 2
Weekly Income: +2 to Money
Current Food: 0/4 (Low!)
Items:
The Journal
Starship Troopers
Warhammer 40k
Star Wars
Horror Books
Red Cloth (From Shadow Creature)
Amulet
Tranquil Fury: Colder than a walking fridge. Cold as a gun. (When activated gain a +20 to Combat rolls! Chance to negate Magic!)
Those who can't, teach better: You're not the best, but you are still a teacher. And you'll be dammed if anyone questions it. +15 to rolls when teaching your child and classroom
Middle School Drama: You've been around enough 13-16 year olds to know what they worry about at that age. +15 bonus to rolls when child hits puberty
Authoritative: Sometimes, tough love is the best love. +10 to rolls when laying down the law
Those fucking brats!: Why do they keep putting a tack on my seat? -10 to rolls to keep Sanity when doing job.
Low Risk Job: If a roll would increase Notoriety with a fail, add +10 to roll
Strong Willed: Either your willpower is harder to break than titanium, or you were insane to begin with to even THINK about raising a THING THAT SHOULD NOT BE as your child. No longer lose Sanity from Supernatural sources.
Knowledge of the Supernatural (Beginner): Turns out, there's an entire world that you are completely unaware of right under your nose! Heh, heh….uuuggghhh. +5 to Supernatural Investigations.
A Bond between Father and Daughter: Everything is better now! (Trust is Maxed Out! +15 to actions to Increase Trust and 1 Reroll for failed actions to increase Trust!)
Orator (Novice): You've got that commanding voice! (+10 to rolls to Inspire or Persuade others)
DODGE!: Best way to not get hit? Not get hit! (+10 to Defensive Combat Rolls)
Power of the Fist (Beginner): Your hands feel so fucking sore now! (+10 to Combat Rolls where you use your fist as weapons)
Your enemies are some kind of strange Shadow Creatures. Apparently they live in..well shadows and are currently watching your every move. You've encountered one of them twice. Once when it appeared on the roof of your car. Then again when you accidentally left Anastasia at home alone.
You have discovered that whatever the Shadow Creatures are, they can bleed. They can be killed.
You have discovered that Magic exist.
You have discovered something called Belief.
There's an Eldritch Monster underneath your school. It is currently asleep Indefinitely, unless someone else tries to wake it up.
Finally finished.
This is the longest Update I've done yet.
Hope you guys enjoy it.
Edit: Also, I know that the part about the paycheck is a bit abrupt, however I had meant to put it in and only just noticed it after I had exhausted all of my energy. So sorry if it feels kind of quickly thrust in there.
[X] Dispelling Serious Rumors!: It's all a misunderstanding, really! (Decrease Alarm; Remove The News! Perk)
[X] Call Rivauld: Ok..you can do this. (Improve Ms. R SL)
[X] Sense Eldritch: They are not getting into our house again. (Anastasia will use her Eldritch Powers to try to sense who or what is currently watching you. May lead to discovery of other Supernatural beings.)
Probably should fill her up with as many books as we can while she has the child learning bonus.
We need to buy food.
We have 4 Money.
[X] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
-[X] 4 Food - 2 Money.
[X] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
-[X] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[X] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[X] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[X] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
Now, I know people want to try to clear the rumors, but if you know anything about gossip? The more you try to disperse the rumors, the more they tend to gather, because trying is suspicious in itself.
Just wait it out. The News! only lasts for 2 days.
Better to get some teamwork on the Eldritch.
And Anastasia has this trait:
Prodigy(Reading): Your eye's just fly across the page! Once you hit toddler age, +15 to all rolls to maintain information from reading.
Potential Unlocked: Now is the time to train! (As long as you are in Child state, gain a +15 to gaining a new Perk or Power)
[X] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
-[X] 4 Food - 2 Money.
[X] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
-[X] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[X] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[X] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[X] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
You hear the sound of a car door opening and closing on the other line, "Don't you know? I keep all my teacher's numbers in my phone, named and in alphabetical order in case any of them to call me for anything. Organization, Craft! It's what runs the world!"
"Oh nothing too serious," you answer trying to ignore your headache, "Just a bit of mental stress is all. I've had this serious migraine since the storms started, and I was thinking of taking some medicine for it. I'll be in tomorrow though! For sure!"
He could have mentioned the thing about the assault, it would have been perfectly fair to mention he was attacked in his own home as long as details are kept away.
So it comes that you find yourself in the Vade Mecum Library. You're currently standing with your back to the counter of the main desk watching Anastasia as she dashes back and forth between different sections. You sigh with pride at her readiness to read. Reminds you of yourself when you were younger.
Being a public library, Vade is much more formal and cleaner than Bram Stoker.
Your slowly walk towards the front door. Your mind examines your front door, and you're halfway through preparing to punch through it using a weak spot around the keyhole, when a voice comes from the other side.
(Volkar and his Family Respect you! They are ready to offer help if asked! SLs Increased! Chester Idolizes you now! New Action: Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Get Harrowmont Assistance when Investigating the School))
"Keep punching! Next time I'll bring steel girders!"
AAAAHHHHHAAAA! (New Perk Gained: Power of the Fist (Beginner): Your hands feel so fucking sore now! (+10 to Combat Rolls where you use your fist as weapons))
Didn't we get 3 thanks to talking with the principal?
[X] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
-[X] 4 Food - 2 Money.
[X] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
-[X] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[X] Call Rivauld: Ok..you can do this. (Improve Ms. R SL)
+We have friendly werewolves. Next step is getting friendly vampires.
[X] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[X] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[X] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
[X] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
-[X] 4 Food - 2 Money.
[X] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
-[X] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[X] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[X] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[X] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
[X] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
-[X] 4 Food - 2 Money.
[X] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
-[X] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[X] Call Rivauld: Ok..you can do this. (Improve Ms. R SL)
+We have friendly werewolves. Next step is getting friendly vampires.
[X] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[X] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[X] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
Rivauld also seems like she is into us, being as forward as she is. She might want us as her vampy love. After all, Vamps are known for being quite amorous.
[X] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
-[X] 4 Food - 2 Money.
[X] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
-[X] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[X] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[X] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[X] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
[X] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
-[X] 4 Food - 2 Money.
[X] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
-[X] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[X] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[X] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[X] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
[X] Food: General supplies to keep both your and your child's stomachs full.
-[X] 4 Food - 2 Money.
[X] Books: Train, Expand, and Feed your mind.
-[X] Fun Reading Books (Possible Perk for Character/Child when read): 1.5 Money
[X] Inform the Harrowmonts: They really should know. (Gain Harrowmont's assistance when Investigating Crossroads)
[X] Investigate Crossroads: Seriously, the fuck! (Possibly learn why there is an Eldritch Monster underneath your school and how to stop it 10% Done)
[X] Read a book: The best way to gain knowledge on just about anything. (Anastasia will look through your collection of books and read one on her own. May result in new Perk.)
