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Lmao okay I'm coming around to the insane tonal shifts of this game being a feature and not a bug.
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Aug 10, 2022 16:56
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gee whiz it sure is a good thing that a massive short in the engineering bay didn't take anything out!!! it's not like that fuse box is actually doing anything apparently
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Aug 10, 2022 18:22
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dervival posted:gee whiz it sure is a good thing that a massive short in the engineering bay didn't take anything out!!! it's not like that fuse box is actually doing anything apparently  . Besides, things only need to hold together for a couple days before we yet again get screwed by the wildly imbalanced Vampire 'game'.
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Aug 10, 2022 19:09
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this is just about the least sexy fanservice I've ever seen in anything
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Aug 10, 2022 21:17
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Leraika posted:this is just about the least sexy fanservice I've ever seen in anything hey at least he was alive this time 
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Aug 10, 2022 21:57
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Mix. posted:hey at least he was alive this time God, why did you remind me.  I just...man. Tonal shifts can be cool, but it doesn't feel intentional at all here, just "here's Dating Scene 1 followed by Death Game Scene B", with no connective tissue whatsoever.
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Aug 11, 2022 00:11
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Leraika posted:this is just about the least sexy fanservice I've ever seen in anything
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Aug 11, 2022 00:30
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Leraika posted:this is just about the least sexy fanservice I've ever seen in anything  it looks like he's hunching his shoulders while wearing one of those silly muscle suits, yeah
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Aug 11, 2022 02:22
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mycelia posted:God, why did you remind me. yep. doing it once or twice would be genuinely shocking, like you're enjoying a tender/sexy moment and then it's all ripped away from you - but this is just formulaic.
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Aug 11, 2022 03:38
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Hey, this time Kimiko didn't freak out and get herself (and then the entire ship) killed.
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Aug 11, 2022 13:56
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ZCKaiser posted:Hey, this time Kimiko didn't freak out and get herself (and then the entire ship) killed. Well, let's not count chickens.
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Aug 11, 2022 14:11
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Yeah, we haven't hit game over. Chances of a rampage are Pretty Good.
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Aug 11, 2022 16:53
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  [BGM: Drink Deep of the Universe]  I turned over in my sleep, causing my hair to stand up with the static as it was drawn across the pillow case. The sudden sting of the discharge tore me from my deep sleep.  YOSHIKI!My eyes darted around the darkened room as I caught my breath.  ...Yoshiki...As I came to, my head threw up images from the night before, making my stomach turn. I couldn't believe we'd lost... I'd failed him, and his blood was on my hands. Yoshiki was dead, and it was my fault. Why couldn't I have lost instead? I briefly contemplated facing the day to come before collapsing back into the bed. …  Hours later I woke, feeling a weight on my feet. I tried to kick it off, thinking it was my blankets.  OI!Shizuka and Katashi were both perched at the end of my bed. How the hell did you get in here? Shizuka has many hidden skills... You hacked my door lock?  Not so much 'hacked' as 'broke'. You broke my door lock... Well... yeah, but... you know, how else would I get in? You could knock like a normal person? We did, multiple times; apparently you're quite the heavy sleeper. Maybe I just didn't want to be bothered!I sat there with my arms crossed, making my unhappiness very clear. Please don't be upset, Jordan. We came to cheer you up. Well, so far you aren't doing too well. I saw Katashi flinch, but he recovered with a strong smile immediately after, as if to challenge my negativity.  I have better things to do than deal with Ms. Grumpy Bum here- I'm out.Shizuka slid off my bed and left, not looking back for even a second. Hahaha, I'm impressed! What? I knew you would chase Shizuka away eventually; she looks for any excuse to avoid work... but within a minute? Well done! That wasn't my intention... Wasn't it? You didn't want us here before she left, and I assume you still don't.Katashi was right. I just wanted to continue my solitary pity party.   I know you and Yoshiki were close. … And I know for a fact that he wouldn't want you sulking in bed over him. Yeah? And what exactly do you suggest?Katashi smiled as if prepared for this exact question. Oh, Jordan, I thought you'd never ask! Would you like to join me in the Kitchen for a bite to eat? I'm not hungry. Give me the opportunity to help your appetite return, at least. I sat, considering his suggestion with arms still crossed.  I'm on the fence- convince me. May I persuade you with vivid descriptions of what awaits you? Go on... If you were to accompany me to the Kitchen, I can promise you a flavor festival, nay, a veritable culinary carnival for your taste buds! Well, now I'm intrigued... Imagine fluffy pancakes, plump strawberries, rich chocolate sauce... melted butter, freshly baked bread, homemade jam... Okay, okay, I get it! Has my persuasion been successful? The laugh I had been desperately holding back burst out. You had me at chocolate sauce!Katashi punched the air triumphantly. Alrighty then! Up and at 'em, soldier!Comically grumbling in faux protest, I hastened from my bed and followed Katashi to the Kitchen. [BGM: Standby to Standby]  When we arrived in the Kitchen, I could see that Katashi had been cooking for hours. There was food everywhere- more food than I thought I could eat in a whole lifetime. Wow, you've really gone all out... I knew that I wouldn't disappoint you. I'm amazed that one person could make so much food and it still look so delicious! Oh Jordan! You know just how to make me blush.Katashi laughed as he ran up and down the island, explaining all of his creations.  So everything here is a breakfast food in one way or another, but I've divided the room into savory and sweet. Which do you prefer? Sweet! A sweet tooth, eh? I can certainly appreciate that- I'm one too, after all! Really? What's your favorite sweet? Cake... always cake. There's just something inherently beautiful about a perfectly risen and moist cake. Why don't you and cake get a private room? Jealous, are we?Katashi grinned. I...I couldn't stop the blush- my joke had backfired pretty spectacularly. I couldn't help but feel embarrassed. It was time for me to swiftly change the subject.  Starting from the bottom. Which do you prefer: the Farm, or the Kitchen? Why do you ask? You're basically the caretaker of both, so I thought perhaps you had a preference? That's like asking me which parent I would save from a burning building! Allow me to clarify. My dad was a chef- the finest chef on all of Earth!I wasn't sure if it was true or not, but Katashi seemed very proud, so I didn't want to burst his bubble. I learned all of my kitchen skills from him... ...and all of my farming skills from my mum! Really? Yeah, my mum was the farmer- she used to hate when dad called her that. She had degrees in agricultural engineering, botany, and even veterinary science. Wow, I can see why 'farmer' might be downplaying her skills. She gave as good as she got, don't worry. She called my dad a cook. Isn't that the same thing as a chef? According to the countless lectures I received, no! Hahaha! Sometimes I would call him a cook just to laugh at him while he flew into a rage over it! Well, I learn something new every day! Hopefully that suffices to answer your initial question. I could never choose one over the other. It must have been nice having parents with such... different skills. It only meant I had twice the expectations to live up to! Hah, I never thought of it like that. Either way, I'm grateful to my parents for passing some of their copious talent on to me. I just wish I was half as good as either of them. I'm quite sure you are! And I have no doubt they are both proud of you! If I were you, I'd save my convictions until after trying all of these dishes!Next, the middle option. You must really enjoy cooking! I most certainly do! But I haven't always. Really? There was a time when you didn't like it? Yeah, when I was younger. So why didn't you like cooking then? Katashi went silent for a moment, clearly thinking back to when he was a child. I guess it wasn't really cooking that I disliked... It was the drat washing up afterwards! Haha, I hear you. My dad always made me do ALL the dishes! He didn't help you? He said, 'when you have children, you can make them do the dishes for you', but until then the dishes were my burden to bear. Your dad sounds like quite the taskmaster. Maybe so, but boy could he cook. I'm not even in the same ballpark! That good, eh? That was how he wooed my mum so effectively. With food? Of course, how else do men get themselves wives? I guess I have a soft spot for food... Excellent! My plan's already working! What plan? Oh, nothing~ Enough chit chat! I require your expert criticism on all these dishes.And lastly, the top option. Why are you making so much food? Well, I am the cook here. Yes I know that, but you don't normally make so much food. Hahaha, you noticed? Of course! In fact, I know you're usually quite the stickler for rationing and this... this doesn't look like rationing to me. Okay, I'll let you in on a little secret.Katashi signalled for me to come closer so he could whisper in my ear. I obliged. The reason for this much food... ...is you. What? Why? I know you and Yoshiki were pretty close. His death was obviously quite the blow for you. Yeah, but... Look, I'm not the greatest at comforting people, but do you know what is? Food, apparently. It's called comfort food for a reason!I couldn't really argue with that logic. But... the rations... I get what you're saying, but, in a morbid way, it's fine. How so? With four fewer crew members, our rations have increased proportionally. Wow... that is morbid. Yup. Buuuut the upside is having a smorgasbord of comfort food to choose from! I would rather have Yoshiki back! The room fell silent. I hadn't stopped to think how Katashi would react. See, I'm not good at the whole comforting thing. I've done everything that I can think of, and yet I still stuff it up. No, no! I really appreciate this, honestly! Really? Yes, of course! But I do wonder- why have you done this for me, and no one else? I like you. Don't you like everyone? Hahaha, maybe some of the others have taken a crack at me, but when I say I like you, I mean like like you. Are you... confessing your feelings to me? Hypothetically. If that's what it was, and I'm not saying it is; how am I doing? I think I'll withhold judgment until I've sampled all of your wonderful food.I playfully shoved Katashi aside, eager to get to work on his spread. Within moments I had a mouthful of pancake. Thishh ishh soooo gooood~  I want to try! I want to try!'In shock, my pancakes shot down the wrong way, bringing on a huge coughing fit.  Jordan, are you okay?Katashi rubbed my back while I struggled to regain control of my breathing- my eyes streamed, bulging and red. [BGM: Ad Astra Per Aspera]  Katashi! It isn't even game time, yet you're trying to kill a crew member? On second thoughts, I think I'll pass on your food! It's clearly not suitable for human or AI consumption!Regardless of Dai's obvious antagonising, Katashi still looked slighted by her words. Dai.. *cough* ...what do you want? You alright there, Jordan? Do you need me to rescue you from this cook? Katashi starred daggers at Dai. I'm fine, I just need a drink.Katashi poured me a glass of water, which I guzzled down with relief. Much better, thanks Katashi. Least I could do, given that I just about killed you...Katashi meant the words in jest, but a tinge of guilt crept through. You two finished?We both nodded impatiently so Dai would share her reason for being here.  It's that time again! Time for an explanation of the new Deletion Game! I'm going to need you to report to the Dining Hall, pronto! Alright, message received. Faaaantastic! See you there, kiddies!Dai waved childishly as she walked backwards straight through the wall.  Are you okay, Jordan? I'm so sorry. I'm fine, it was my fault! My experiment to see if I could inhale pancakes was a resounding failure. Hahaha, thanks for making me feel better, Jordan. We'd best head to the Dining Hall before Princess Pain-in-the-rear end kills us for being late. Haha, yes, we'd better!Having no death wishes today, we both made our way briskly to the Dining Hall.
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Aug 16, 2022 17:55
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Katashi's path is so much better than the other paths we've done
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Aug 17, 2022 03:38
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Slaan posted:Katashi's path is so much better than the other paths we've done yeah this is the first one that hasn't made me feel gross yet. hopefully that continues
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Aug 17, 2022 03:46
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You're all very quick to forget this...
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Aug 17, 2022 16:45
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Cloacamazing! posted:You're all very quick to forget this... Well, we were trying to! (also that's very pointedly not from a Katashi route )
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Aug 17, 2022 16:55
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 [BGM: Ad Astra Per Aspera]  Wonderful! Everyone's here!The Captain turned on Dai- her words cold and measured.  Now that everyone is here, explain the game and then leave. Awww, is someone still sulking over...Dai stopped abruptly, feigning forgetfulness. What was his name again? Yogi? Yobashi? Yo... something.  You know his name was Yoshiki. I do not have the time or patience for your antics. Get to the point. Wooooooow, I think I've actually broken the captain!Dai waved her hands in front of the captain, who paid her no attention. I didn't think I would ever say this... Captain, I'm sorry.The captain ignored Dai- she knew this was probably another one of her traps. I'm serious. Why would you start being serious now?Beatrix placed herself squarely between Dai and the captain.  You killed Yoshiki, yet you have the nerve to tell the captain you're sorry? TELL US ABOUT YOUR GAME, AND GET OUT.Dai was visibly shocked by Beatrix's aggression, but a coy smile quickly took over. That's so much better! What? That fighting spirit! I knew I could count on you, Trixxy! The captain's attitude is... boring.The captain wasn't mentally present in the conversation any longer, and she wasn't about to respond to anything. But you... you're a breath of fresh air! There's still hope for this game yet! *ahem* Allow me to introduce you to the newest round of the Deletion Game- Vampire Children!Once again, skip.  Everyone filed out of the Dining Hall, leaving the captain sitting alone. I stopped Beatrix in the hallway. Beatrix... What is it, Sailor? Thank you for standing up for the captain. It wasn't her I was standing up for. What do you mean? Yoshiki was like a younger brother to the captain.I witnessed Beatrix's eyes fill with unbridled rage. No one touches little brothers.Beatrix stormed off down the hallway. Everyone took the rest of the day to let the game and the situation sink in. I liked that Beatrix acted bulletproof, but she had a soft heart. She could make up any excuse she liked but, at the end of the day, it was obvious that she was protecting the captain. … Okay, so, this is where we talk to the Captain about the upcoming black hole- but the entire lead-in (Ai comes to retrieve us) and conversation with her is identical to one we've already seen, so we're going to be skipping all of that, too!  After we reassure her about the black hole, though, she changes the subject and has a question for us...[BGM: With Fear: Hope]  The captain smiled, obviously more relaxed than when I had arrived.  Before you leave, may I ask a question of you? Of course. Do you have a favorite method that helps you concentrate? A method? Something you do that helps you to think clearly? For example...? I find listening to music helps me concentrate. Isn't listening to music distracting? I can understand why you might think that, but music allows me to keep on track. Really? How's that? This is hard to explain, but imagine having multiple voices in your head...Voices? I wondered if I should be more concerned than I was. Alright... And while I'm in control of most of my thought processes, I have internal voices who, much like children, become easily distracted and tend to meander down unintended paths. The music acts as a caretaker for these children, guiding them in the direction that I intend. ...So... you're saying that music stops your mind from wandering off-task? Yes, precisely. It is amusing that you can explain it much better than I. You explained it pretty well, I just put it in layman's terms.The captain smiled at my compliment.  So, do you have a method to help you concentrate? I wish I had something miraculous, but I don't know if such a thing exists. Perhaps you should try listening to music. I think I'll give it a shot. Right now, I'd pretty much try anything to help me find the missing pieces of all these puzzles. That is all I need from you, Jordan. You are dismissed.I swiftly headed back to my quarters. … [BGM: Drink Deep of the Universe]  I slowly cracked open my eyes and was amazed to find myself blissfully free of the usual fatigue. I let out a deeply satisfied yawn, stretching my arms out in front of me. Alright brain, we're friends, right? I feel like we can make some real progress today!I jumped enthusiastically out of bed and, with renewed vigor, strode to the Lab to get things underway. The lights blinked on in the Lab as I crossed the threshold, emptied out the box of research notes, and laid them out on the desk. Alright! Come on, brain! We got this!Just then, I remembered what the captain had said earlier. Ai.  Good morning, Jordan. Your serotonin and oxytocin levels appear to be elevated above the usual average. I guess that means my pep talk worked! I'm just feeling like... like I have to be getting close to a breakthrough! That is good news. However, I regret to inform you that I still have no new information regarding Dai or the deactivation code. That's okay. We'll manage somehow. Thank you for your assurance, Jordan. How may I be of assistance this morning? I was hoping you could play some music through the Lab PA system? Of course. Any requests? Your choice- surprise me![BGM: Quantum Suicide Opening Theme]  Ai bowed in acknowledgement and disappeared. As she did, music began playing through the loudpseakers in the Lab. The opening movie never plays at any point during the actual game, it's only upon bootup of the game, which is why it's never come up in the LP before. My good mood made the morning fly by. Sometime before midday, I put down the papers and took up the pocket watch, turning it over and over in my hand, as if expecting the secrets to simply fall out. Go on, watch, tell me what you know- I'm listening. Jordan!I looked up and saw Katashi in the doorway to the Lab, but I couldn't hear him very well over the loud music. I... ne... ou... oo... in. HANG ON! AI, PLEASE TURN OFF THE MUSIC.[BGM: Drink Deep of the Universe]  The music stopped instantly, leaving a ringing in my ears. Katashi was still attempting to yell over the music. ...REGRET IT!Katashi and I both simultaneously broke into laughter. Hahaha, to what do I owe this pleasure, Katashi? I need you...My chest tightened and my heart raced as it prepared for what was to inevitably follow. …to accompany me to the Rec Room.I let out a sigh of relief. I was not in the frame of mind for a deep and potentially awkward conversation. The Rec Room? What for? I've prepared some popcorn and would like to extend you an invitation to my evening of movies. You're going to watch movies? Well, Jordan, your hearing checks out. That is in fact what I said.Katashi smiled at me playfully. I think you've worked enough- you need to take a break. And who better to spend a break with than yours truly? Hahaha, what a bold assumption!He appeared very pleased that I could poke fun at him in return. Well? You know what? That sounds delightful. Really? You're in? Katashi couldn't hide the excitement in his voice. Hahaha, calm down! Sorry! I was seriously expecting you to just brush me off. No, you're right- I do need a break. Meet you in the Rec Room in five minutes? Sure, see you there!Katashi danced out of the room. I packed up my work and followed closely behind him to the Rec Room. [BGM: Standby to Standby]  I found Katashi blobbing happily in one of the armchairs very close to the television. Your company has arrived~! I'm a very lucky man!Katashi smiled ear to ear as I took a seat in the chair opposite. So, what are we watching? That's entirely up to you! Oh, I get to choose? Naturally! Which genre of movie do you like the most? We get a different bit of dialogue for each of these answers, so I'm just going to run down the list quickly.-Comedy What do you like about comedy movies? Who doesn't like laughing? Good point! Even Dai would like a comedy. I think her comedy would be closer in nature to our horror. To each their own, right?Katashi's smile was laced with sadness. -Romance Of course you do! What's that supposed to mean, eh? Women tend to favor romantic movies. That's a bit presumptuous! Jordan, you just proved that presumption to be correct! Historically there was even a whole film genre called 'chick flicks'.I sat, showing my displeasure by scowling at him. Jordan, you and the majority of women liking romantic movies is not a problem. Does liking chocolate upset you? The majority of women probably like chocolate, too. ...I guess you're right?-Horror Really? Horror movies? The gorier the better! I want to see blood and guts and- Okay, okay, I get it. You're a sick puppy that could give Dai a run for her money.-Action What aspect of action movies do you like? Um... the action? Hahaha, I guess that was kind of a redundant question. I understand what you mean though! I suppose I enjoy the physical conflict. Katashi recoiled in pretend shock. Should I be concerned? Haha, nothing to fear here. I enjoy the spectacle, but I punch like a limp noodle.-Suspense What attracts you to suspense, then? I just like movies that make you really think... In fact, I find suspense movies often have a longer lasting effect on me than horror. Suspense scares you? Not so much, but because they are often more plausible than horror, I find them even more unsettling. Hahaha, I see what you mean! What's your favorite genre? What do YOU think my favorite genre is? We already know the answer to this from a different route, but before we give the right answer, here's Katashi's responses to the wrong answers! -Comedy I do enjoy comedy, but not quite on the mark there.-Horror I can't even handle even the smallest bits of gore. One time I tried to watch a horror movie with Yoshiki, and I threw up violently into his lap.-Action Afraid not. But I do enjoy a good kung-fu movie.-Suspense Afraid not. I find them too confusing and needlessly complex.And now, the right answer: Romance? Ding ding ding! Really? Romance movies are your absolute favorite? Is the desire to find true love really something to laugh at? I guess not, sorry I laughed! I guess I just... didn't expect it from you. Consider it forgotten already! Let's get this movie rolling.We sat and watched movies for four hours. The popcorn, sadly, lasted fewer than ten minutes. After the movies I wished Katashi a good night and made my way back to my quarters. I had never really spent time like this before- just relaxing and watching movies. I wasn't sure if I loved movies... or spending time with Katashi. The thought made me blush, and I looked around to make sure that no one was witness to this. I placed the precious pocket watch on the bedside table before hopping in, satisfied with how the evening had gone. I sighed with contentment and snuggled deeper into bed; my thoughts couldn't have been further from tomorrow's impending Deletion Game. … [BGM: Silence]  My dreams ran wild in my head, making my physical body toss and turn uncontrollably. One particularly violent vision made me jerk slightly too far to the edge of the bed, and I smacked my head square on the corner of the bedside table. OWWWW!My head spun around madly, adrenaline pumping through my body, putting me in full fight or flight mode. I quickly realized that the only foe to be seen was the bedside table. We meet again, my greatest enemy.I jabbed at the bedside table in jest, disturbing the pocket watch and causing a strobing green light to lurch around the dim room. [BGM: Monsters in Metal Cocoons] THE WATCH!I shot out of bed faster than I had ever moved before and took the watch in hand. It bathed my singlet shirt and shorts in light, and wonder dawned across my dimly-lit features. The lights are green... THE LIGHTS ARE GREEN!
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Aug 18, 2022 20:26
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Ah, so that's where they're going with the captain. Cool. cool cool cool cool cool. let's get outta here
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Aug 18, 2022 21:01
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push it and see whatever silliness this route has for ditching it
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Aug 18, 2022 21:36
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Leraika posted:Ah, so that's where they're going with the captain. Cool. cool cool cool cool cool. *sigh* looks like it Push button
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Aug 18, 2022 22:49
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Leraika posted:Ah, so that's where they're going with the captain. Cool. cool cool cool cool cool. What if: Dai was the captain’s head the entire time! No, seriously. Like, we know Dai is made of hard light, or can be. What if the captain is?  And Dai is a figment of her subconscious. Somehow.
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Aug 18, 2022 23:38
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Leraika posted:Ah, so that's where they're going with the captain. Cool. cool cool cool cool cool. Can we just give her more points in Volition or something
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Aug 19, 2022 12:15
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Bifauxnen posted:Can we just give her more points in Volition or something yeah Kimiko needs to mag it up hardcore
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Aug 19, 2022 13:41
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 [BGM: Monsters in Metal Cocoons]  Within moments of pressing the button, I felt a gut-wrenching sensation before everything faded to black. … ???: Are you okay? Huh????: I said, are you okay? [BGM: Drink Deep of the Universe]  I was lying on the floor of my quarters. I looked around and noticed that my room was devoid of my belongings, and there was an unfamiliar man standing over me. Who are you? That's what I should be asking you. Me? But it would be impolite to not introduce myself first. My name is Teofilo Hurtado. I'm the Damage Control Officer on the Everett under Captain Yukimori. You can call me Teo. My name's Jordan.I saw Teo flinch at the mention of my name, but he quickly regained composure. It's nice to meet you. I hate to be rude, but how did you get aboard this ship? I don't exist here? At all? Well, I would say quite the contrary. You appear to exist in front of me, but I could very well be hallucinating. No no, I don't mean me. I meant another version of me.  I guarantee that you are the first version of you I have had the pleasure of meeting. Do you know who Dai is? Die? Not like the verb 'die'- it's spelled D-A-I. I am unfamiliar with this person. There are none aboard the Everett with that name. I have to ask again, how did you get on this ship? I came here from another dimension.Teo didn't seem alarmed or concerned in the slightest.  Then you used the pocket watch? Yes. Ai.Teo summoned Ai into the room with us; however, this Ai was different.   Yes, Teo? Ai... you're a boy? I am neither male nor female, but my physical manifestation is that of a boy. Interesting. How can I be of service? Could you please tell the captain that the visitor we've been expecting has arrived via the pocket watch? Very well.Teo put his hand towards me and helped me to my feet.  We should join the Captain and the rest of the crew in the Dining Hall; they will be eager to meet you.I nodded and followed Teo into the hallway. The ship looked the same as I remembered. Are you from an Everett in a different universe? Yes, I'm a research officer on my Everett. You appear young enough to be second generation, no? I am. My parents started the mission as research officers and passed their work on to me to complete. Deborah and Patrick, right? You know my parents? I'm sorry, Jordan. What? What for?We hadn't quite made it to the Dining Hall before running into other crew members. [BGM: With Fear: Hope]   Teo, thank you for bringing the girl here.Teo had disappeared from my side. An uneasy feeling was developing quite rapidly. Kimiko? How dare you address me so! It is Captain Hikimori to you. You look... different. Tch. Oh, Sailor, you're about to have a bad day.  Beatrix, no need to be so ominous. Beatrix? Nikolas? Is that you?Both Beatrix and Nikolas seemed confused. You know us? Yes, but you look different to my versions of you. Oh, I feel sorry for the other me. It's impossible to improve on this beauty. Oh, you're definitely the same person.Nikolas sniggered at his sister's furious reaction. I traveled here wi- The pocket watch, we know. What? How? You are not the first person to travel here. I'm not? Who else? Give me the pocket watch. No! I need this! You either give it to me, or I take it by force. I will gladly pry it from your hands.I surveyed the crew standing in front of me, and didn't favor my chances.  Ok so, if you say no here Shizuka goes 'ok then' and punches you, and Jordan dies on the spot. Insanely funny, but not really worth showing because it's all of like three lines of text total. Also, we already know we can't give it to them anyway, because the watch doesn't travel with Jordan.I put my hand in my pocket... but it wasn't there. The pocket watch... it's gone.The captain made her way close to me and padded me down. She pulled away from me, satisfied that I didn't have it. Teo will escort you to your temporary quarters for the time being.The crew turned and left. Teo appeared beside me once again. [BGM: The Aftermath of Bravery]  Teo, what's going on? Follow me and I can answer your queries when we arrive at our destination.I followed Teo back the way we had first come, before finally arriving at the quarters. Take a seat.I sat down, awaiting my explanation.  Your parents were executed. WHAT? Last week, a woman with purple hair appeared in the same way you just did, and... murdered multiple crew members. WHAT?! She was crazed- calling your name. I don't understand... who killed my parents? The captain had them executed. I'm so confused... what's going on here?! You need to remain calm so I can explain the situation to you.I took a deep breath and did my best to gather my tempestuous thoughts.  Your parents created a pocket watch with the ability to create a link between different dimensions- worlds running parallel to our own.I nodded, indicating that I was following so far. To travel, the watch must be present at both the origin and the destination.I hid my growing excitement over finally learning more about the pocket watch. I leaned closer, filled with intrigue. Your parents, however, couldn't work out how they connected- only that there needed to be two. Then last week, the purple haired woman appeared and murdered many crew members, before she disappeared as quickly as she arrived. Before she did, she demanded the override code for the AI system. Yoshiki told the woman that the word 'astra' had something to do with the code, so she let him live. After the dust settled, the captain confronted your parents about their research and demanded to know how to prevent it occurring again. She established that the only way was to ensure that the watch could never be created again. Your parents died yesterday.I was only a day late to see my parents, to have possibly saved them. I was in a trance when Ai appeared suddenly.  Hello, Teo, Jordan. The captain has disposed of the watch. Travel between worlds is now impossible. I can't leave? I'm afraid that is correct. I had a feeling this would happen. I'm sorry, Jordan. What? What's happening? The captain has decided that you are to be executed. Your knowledge of the watch is too extensive and, as the child of our late research officers, you may have the ability to manufacture a new one. The captain needs to protect her crew. I'm sorry, Jordan.Ship Broadcast: Oxygen levels in Quarter Four dropping to unsafe levels. No, please! I need to save my own world! DAI IS KILLING EVERYONE! Does Dai have purple hair? No... Then Dai is none of our concern.Teo put on a breathing apparatus and walked out of the room. As the oxygen levels continued to drop, I gasped for air, but the air was so thin it was like sucking the last drop of water out of a cup with a straw. It wasn't long before everything faded to black.  JUMP ENDING – KATASHI (F SIDE) Mix. fucked around with this message at 08:22 on Aug 29, 2022 |
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Aug 23, 2022 19:34
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...okay Kimiko having jumped dimensions and gone crazy is very concerning, assuming that is the "purple-haired woman" they mean.
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Aug 23, 2022 20:43
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Sounds like we either have one dimension-hopping murderous Kimiko (who killed F!Jordan in Update 49) or multiple dimension-hopping murderous Kimikos. Looking back at previous updates, Teofilo also showed up in the alternate universe F!Jordan jumped to in Update 47, though Beatrix and Nikolas didn’t exist there. (Ai still had a male avatar, though.) It seems like Ad Astra might be part of the code--"To the stars." Which seems fitting enough.
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Aug 23, 2022 21:37
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I kind of like Beta Beatrix and Shizuka's designs better...
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Aug 23, 2022 21:57
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There's something unsettling about beta shizuka that I can't put my finger on, but deffo agreed on beatrix.
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Aug 23, 2022 22:09
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Leraika posted:There's something unsettling about beta shizuka that I can't put my finger on... She's smiling at you like she's a bully in high school?
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Aug 23, 2022 22:10
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Part of the override code is absolutely Per aspera ad astra, it's by far the most famour expresion using those words. Another interesting detail is that this is the first universe without Himiko. Up until now it felt like she was a fixture, but apparently not so much. Mhm... I gotta say, for all the repetiveness of the main branches and tonal shifts I really like they did bother to make the AUs different in terms of cast instead of just like, genderswaps or smth. Hell, if it turns out all these designs are literal beta versions of the final cast, kudos to the devs for good reuse of resources.
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Aug 23, 2022 22:14
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Wasn't Kimiko's mom the one who went all crazy murder-y? She looks like she is the purple haired lady referred here.
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Aug 23, 2022 22:23
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Hmm...can the watch also take us back in time, relatively (while still traveling to another dimension)? Everybody looking similar but not exactly the same, and the captain apparently executing Jordan's parents, makes me think we warped to a version of the previous generation, where a bunch of people died and Kimiko's mother apparently tried to have Jordan's parents killed. Here she succeeded, but in our main timelines they escaped. Which makes me wonder...what if DAI's trigger wasn't Jordan's arrival, but the watch's?
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Aug 24, 2022 14:35
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 [BGM: Drink Deep of the Universe]  I didn't yet have a good enough reason for me to press the button. My back wasn't hard enough up against the wall... just yet. Glaring at the watch for making my mind so tumultuous, I knew that I had to make a choice sometime. A quick glance at my tablet told me that two people were awake- the captain, who was pacing up and down the bridge, and Katashi in the Kitchen. It was the easiest decision I'd made up to this point. The Kitchen awaited.  I found Katashi humming to himself absentmindedly. I doubt he was expecting anyone to need to use the Kitchen at this hour, and for good reason. He hadn't noticed me yet. Hmm, hmm, hmm~ So why are you awake at this hour?Katashi leaped straight up into the air, looking like he was about to clear the table. He staggered, holding his chest.  Jordan, you'll be the death of me! Not yet. Don't be so sure!Katashi struggled to catch his breath, looking very faint. Let me guess... if you were trying to kill me then I would know about it.I shook my head, pleading innocence. I would never try to kill you! That's so sweet! I don't try; I would have already succeeded.Katashi's eyebrows shot towards the ceiling, interest clearly roused.  Oh, you claim that you could kill me without me ever seeing it coming? If this morning has taught me anything- absolutely, yes.Katashi huffed audibly. Okay, so tell me... why are you awake this early? I fought my bedside table- in an epic clash! Did you win?I leaned forward, showing off the raised bump on my head. Hahaha, I guess that answers my question!Katashi's laughter quickly faded.   Seriously, are you okay though? You don't have a concussion or anything, do you? I don't think so. I was a bit woozy just after, bu- WOOZY? That sounds just like a concussion! Seriously, I'm fine! I'm going to wake Nikolas immediately.Katashi was halfway out of the Kitchen before I managed to catch him and haul him back in by his shirt sleeve. Please don't. And why not? I'm sure Nikolas is asleep right now. You could be injured! Your life could be at risk, and I don't want to be the one responsible! How about you just keep an eye on me, and only wake him up if things go south.Katashi looked at me suspiciously, but gave in with a humph.  Fine! But you even sneeze funny... straight to the Medic Bay! Deal.I circled around the island to get a better look at what Katashi was cooking. Need any help there? I don't think so, Missy! And why not? You are to sit on this seat and not move a muscle. I can help- -by sitting right where I can see you, and keeping me company.I humphed even louder than Katashi had earlier, sitting down at the kitchen island bench. Katashi continued to cook, pointedly ignoring me and staying silent. What are you cooking? Dinner. Dinner? It's not even breakfast yet! I know that. I'm confused. I'm making pre-made dinners to freeze for later. Why? You usually cook every day. Katashi stopped what he was doing and turned to face me. Tears formed shimmering tracks on his pallid face.  Today is the Deletion Game. I may not live to make today's dinner, let alone tomorrow's. Katashi- I'm just making sure I leave enough behind for everyone when I'm gone, okay? You're not going to die, Katashi! Jordan, you need to come to terms with the fact that it's not just a possibility- it's an inevitability. I won't let that happen!Katashi smiled, a mixture of compassion and grief mixed in with it. Look, I'll prove it! I pulled the watch from my pocket, shoving it at Katashi. My parents' watch... their legacy...Katashi's interest spiked. The watch is... working?I nodded. What does this mean for us? All I know is that when I woke up this morning, it was lit up. I haven't pressed anything yet. You're not curious? I know it does something related to dimensional travel, but I don't know any of the specifics. I... see. I sat in silence, looking at the watch; its glow gently mocked me. I'm not desperate enough yet to risk everything on this ship by using it.Katashi smiled appreciatively. That's the Jordan I know.I slipped the watch back into my pocket, freshly reassured that I was making the right choice. Without a grasp of all the possible consequences, I just don't know if I ever could activate the watch in good conscience.Katashi looked like he was deep in thought. How about this? If the time comes when I believe we have run out of options and we have no other choice, I will tell you and you can activate the watch then. Deal?I shook on it. That seems like a smart approach to this situation. I'm glad I came to you for advice.I beamed at Katashi. I somehow felt like a weight was lifted from my chest, knowing that we had a backup plan... of sorts. So, I hope you're hungry! I need a taste tester... Oh? You look like the perfect guinea pig! Hey, I'm no pig! drat- these chocolate chip pikelets are perfect for piggies. I looked down at the pikelets and that was enough to make me instantly change my tune. Sorry, I misspoke! I meant to say... oink oink. Hahaha, very cute, Jordan. Problem is, guinea pigs make a squeaking noise. I have to admit I've never heard one. It's like... squuuuuu-squeeeeak! …We both broke into laughter at the same moment, just seeing the effort of each other desperately holding it in proving too much for us. Hahaha! I'm glad I can still make you laugh. I spent the whole of the early morning with Katashi, watching him cook and freeze meal after meal, sampling each one as it paraded past. Soon, it was 7 o'clock. Alright, here's the last mouthful for you, Miss Piggy. I can't eat any more... please, have mercy!Katashi chuckled to himself, clearly pleased with the results. I guess I'll take this one for the team.[BGM: Ad Astra Per Aspera]  The fork was practically in his mouth when Dai appeared right in front of him, yelling at the top of her lungs. Katashi, the game hasn't even started yet! Don't sacrifice yourself for my sake!She pretended to knock the fork out of his hand, her outstretched arm passing right through it. She howled in mock anguish. Good morning, Dai... There can be no more good mornings without you in it! Alright, Dai, that's enough melodrama for one morning.Dai straightened up and ran her hands down her rumpled holographic clothes to make herself presentable again. Mmmm! Nothing smells quite as good as murder in the morning! How can you smell murder if it hasn't happened ye-Dai stared daggers at me, challenging me to finish that sentence.  Would you happen to be volunteering yourself to rectify that situation? Sounds to me to be quite the loaded offer there... Oh, you're both volunteering now? Sorry Dai, you're right. Murder smells great!Dai was pleased with my sudden acquiescence. You're a fast learner, Jordan! So, tell us what you want with us, Dai. As you know, today is the day we play the new round of the Deletion Game- Vampire Children! Uh huh. I need to tell you your roles, silly! So spit it out. What am I? Dai whispered in Katashi's ear, gesturing in my direction with her head. I can't tell you in front of her... I can hear you, you know! She's already trying to cheat! Well, she's not doing a very good job.Katashi leaned in to whisper back to Dai. I heard she's suffering from a head injury. Hahaha, Katashiiiii! Don't be so mean, her face always looks like she's just been stunned! Jordan, please return to your quarters- I'll be with you shortly to tell you your role, too. Don't have to tell me twice. Ah, sweet submission. I just love it when they roll over and present their soft, exposed bellies.I left the two of them in the Kitchen and headed back to my room as instructed. I made sure to walk extra slowly just to get back at Dai any way I could. Mix. fucked around with this message at 08:40 on Aug 29, 2022 |
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Aug 26, 2022 20:20
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Katashi 
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Aug 26, 2022 20:54
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 content warning: emetophobia [BGM: Ad Astra Per Aspera]  I finally strolled through the door, and walked to the bedside table, stroking it gently but menacingly. We meet again, old nemesis. I need to call a temporary truce so that you can hold onto something precious for me.I slipped the watch gingerly into the bedside table's single drawer. I slid the drawer shut at the same time as Dai appeared in my quarters. Yahooo~ it's me, your favorite AI again! What makes you think you're my favorite? Maybe the oxygen levels in your quarters tell you that I am? Sounds like you've been misinformed.Dai grinned, clearly enjoying defiance almost as much as compliance. Now, aren't you just itching to find out who you get to be? Yes... I suppose? You are....Dai drew out the word, trying to heighten the anticipation. After way too long, I interjected. WELL? ...not the vampire! Sorry to disappoint! What? No, I'm pleased about that! Wait, really? You want to be human? Yeah! Huh. I think I need to repeat the game rules again. I feel like you clearly weren't listening... I'm good, thanks, Dai. I guess we'll see soon enough! Bon chance, Jordan! It was nice knowing you... Dai blew me a kiss goodbye, vanishing from the room. Moments later, I heard her through the ship's PA system. Everyone has now been allocated their role! The first round will begin at 9 am sharp! You have just under two hours to mingle and do as you please... Eeee, this is so exciting!The PA just cut out, as Dai was clearly overexcited. Dai suddenly phased back into my quarters. Did you forget something? I am not Dai. I am Ai. Oh, sorry Ai! I just assumed you wer-Ai suddenly cut me off. Jordan, we need to speak. I do not have long- meet me in the server room.We know the gist again, though it feels a little weird in my opinion that the second Dai relinquishes control she decides to do something about the override password accessibility In any case, skipping to where we can't input the password... I... just don't know...The screen suddenly shut off, with the lights dimming in the entire server room. Huh? What? Ai?There was no response. Ai?Still nothing.  I stumbled along the dark hallway, feeling my way back to my quarters. Not long after I made it there, the lights came back on. Oh, that's much better!Dai's voice boomed angrily through the PA system. I don't know what you're up to, but trust me- I will punish whoever's messing with me right now!Was she talking about what just happened? To start with, I'm gonna mess with you all now! I'm moving the game's start time up! T-minus 5 minutes![BGM: Signs of Battle]  Silence fell as I tried to grasp what had just happened. I no longer had time to speak with the crew concerning game strategy now. Katashi woke me from my internal monologue by almost breaking down my door.  JORDAN, LET ME IN!I ran to the door and let him in. He had obviously sprinted all the way here.  The... *pant* ...watch... *pant* What? I'm not... *pant* ...the vampire. Katashi, take a moment. I can't understand you like that.'Katashi stood there for a few moments, barely catching his breath before proceeding. I'm not the vampire. That's great news! Neither am I! Jordan, don't you understand? Understand what? We needed one of us to be the vampire. Why would you say something like that? Not knowing who the vampire is is as good as a death penalty! What? How? If the vampire has a partner- which they most certainly would- that means we have a fifty-fifty chance of breeding with a vampire in round two; leaving us with the least amount of human babies. So what are you saying we do?Katashi got more flustered as he spoke.  That is if they all aren't working together! We certainly can't trust the Vogels, and the captain hasn't at all been the same since Yoshiki died. I still don't understand! Jordan, it's time for you to use the watch! Shouldn't we wait unt- -until you're already sentenced to death? No, bu- You made me a promise, Jordan. I honestly believe that right now, we're walking into a death trap. If either of us were the vampire, things would be very different. But the fact hasn't changed that I still don't know what will happen when I press the button! Katashi came right up to me, placing both his hands squarely on my shoulders. He choked on his words as they came out. I will not let you die if there's even the remotest chance of escape. PLEASE.His grip tightened to almost painful levels. I nodded, mostly because his words moved me, but also because the pain in my shoulders was becoming unbearable. Okay, but only on one condition. Anything! If there's a way for you to follow after me, you must do it!Katashi nodded vigorously in agreement, finally loosening his grip, allowing me to fetch the pocket watch from its safe spot. I stood directly in front of Katashi, then took a few steps back just in case he got caught up in god-knows-what after the watch activated. Do it.Katashi was still obviously wrestling with the choice he had made, but he didn't stop me. I smiled reassuringly at him as I pressed the button. The watch beeped loudly as everything turned black. … [BGM: Et Tu, My Friend]  A new challenger has entered the ring!I felt sick to the pit of my stomach; on the verge of throwing up. I rolled over onto my back and slowly opened my eyes.  What the-I couldn't quite process the scene that awaited me. Vladimir and Yoshiki were... what was going on? Am I... dreaming? This had better be a dream. Apparently the new contender is mentally unstable! Is this going to be a fair fight? Do we even care? Blood is blood- am I right, folks?The crowd roared in unanimous agreement. Vladimir continued choking Yoshiki using his own suspenders, Melody on his shoulders, cheering him on. Vladimir... what the hell are you doing?  WAIT YOUR TURN! My turn for what? To die, silly!Melody laughed a bloodthirsty laugh that made me shudder with repulsion.  Hold up! What's this? A second new contestant! NO!I looked at my feet, already knowing what I would see- Katashi was sprawled at my feet in a moaning heap. Katashi!Katashi looked up at me with confusion before clutching his stomach, retching and heaving on the floor. Ewwww... the new guy's sick! SICK AND TWISTED!The crowed roared, hitting me with a solid wall of frenzied sound. Katashi got to his feet, still trembling but looking more lucid.  We did it, Jordan! We changed dimensions, didn't we? Yes, but I think now we have some more... immediate problems.Vladimir had just finished off Yoshiki and had turned on Katashi, throwing a wild punch at him. Katashi deftly dodged it, but the momentum carried it straight into me. A second blow to my head in one day was just one too many. Jordan?! Jordan, are you okay? Please, say som-aaaargh.... Our champion is now using the suspenders he just killed Yoshiki with on the new guy! What a show! Kill the monkeys! KILL THE MONKEYS!My consciousness faded, the muffled sounds of Katashi struggling barely breaking through the soft haze that descended on me. Some backup plan this had turned out to be... BAD ENDING – KATASHI (F SIDE)
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Aug 30, 2022 20:08
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I know I've been replying various shades of 'um' and 'what' to most of these, but what
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Aug 30, 2022 20:16
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Leraika posted:I know I've been replying various shades of 'um' and 'what' to most of these, but Obviously we ended up in the fighting game universe. Katashi main btw
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Aug 30, 2022 20:19
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What. We finally rolled a universe where neither Jordan nor their love interest were the vampire. We could actually have proceeded past Vampire Children for once. And Katashi hosed it up.
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Aug 30, 2022 20:26
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what. ed: I approve of cage match melody tho XD Quackles fucked around with this message at 20:52 on Aug 30, 2022 |
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Aug 30, 2022 20:45
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