In a dark place, a made-man struggles against his bonds. Before him, several tools glimmer and sway gently along the wall, the strange bald druggist who knocked him out playing with them. The room is barely illuminated from the streetlights, passing cars, and electric billboards of Level 4. True darkness and silence is not common here.“...It's always women, prostitutes. Transient kids. People who won't be missed. That's no fun. I think doing it to men is much more fun; but not because you're a boy. More because it's not somebody you'd expect. It could be anybody.””You want money? I got money. Pacelli connections.”“You will be next great creation. Worth far more then any amount of dirty criminal money.”“Who da fuck... wait, you're from Level 2?”The man doesn't say anything, instead the stranger brandishes a razor, testing its sharpness against a finger, turning to the mobster. He looks over his captive, eyes looking for the juciest piece to cut first. The mafioso tries to pull out from the rope, the chair squeaking. He sweats. Bribes will certainly not work.“You'd be smart to let me go, psycho. I'm a dangerous man, and I know dangerous people!”He grins at the mafioso with a golden tooth. “Exactly. That's the fun part.”
“Hey Max, thanks so much for watching my kid brothers! My parents are busy and I really need to get to this job interview. It'll only be for about three hours.””No problem!” You say, smiling.“I don't have much to pay you...””Oh, you don't need to pay me anything. I don't need any money.”“You sure? Thanks, I'll bring you a pack of those protein poofs you like for dinner.””Sounds great!”Your name is Max Montagu and you live on Level 5. Within the sparse and uncomfortable walls of yet another government supplied & rent controlled microapartment; you offered to help watch a friend's brothers for a bit. He's one of the few people you know who has a chance to move up in the city; up to Level 4. Just like Cheryl. You didn't ask for a reward, after all, your UBI is enough to cover all basic expenses.”Marbles? Huh, I never had many of those when I was your age. I remember bigger kids would always just steal stuff like that; better to not get attached.”“Nobody has stolen them from us; and we've played with them in the street before!” Carlos's brother says.”Hmm... guess times have changed.”
...In no small part thanks to yourself.Your name may be Max, but that's your secret, ordinary identity. You're also known by another name; the ruthless and powerful vigilante known as The Mask! With your own hands, tonfas, and various other gadgets you have managed to put a serious dent in the “punk culture” of Level 5. Women walk the streets alone without fear, and UBI collection day is no longer a time of stress and secrecy as people try to avoid the big bodied “tax collectors” looking to take a cut. You even managed to take down the strongest and biggest bully of your entire Level; the Viking; and thwart his plans of making himself the petty king of people who already have next to nothing.https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2025/6170571/The Mask has grown a reputation. Known for silence, seriousness, and a single-minded determination to defeat those who prey upon the innocent. And now? He's even known as a killer. At least just for one man; the Viking; who you burned. In a way, it sort of worked out. You've been recovering from that battle for the past few months; taking it easy and not going out on patrol, and this fearsome reputation has helped keep things quiet. It seems the myth has grown; word on the street the reason the Mask killed the Viking was because he saw your face. Given that he almost killed you, you aren't upset about having killed him back. You had your reasons.But given you lost the mask at the DeliDiner, not being back there by the owner or found anywhere; you can't exactly just step back into that role again. You suppose it helped contribute to the legend. Though you have been feeling a little restless recently; you used to punch criminals in the face, and now you're babysitting. How much do you want to return to being the Mask?>Not at all; it's only something you do by necessity>A little excited; it gives your life meaning>Thrilled; you want action, danger, and fame!>It's your True Self
>>6332504>It's your True SelfIt's not a mask. It's our face.
>>6332504Oh cool, we're already back.>Thrilled; you want action, danger, and fame!None of that "Ooooh Bruce Wayne is the REEEEAL mask" bullshit
>>6332506Man, I hate that trope. Max isn't even some obsessed mentally ill tweaker like Batman. He's clearly got an actual life, even if he likes being the mask.
>>6332504>A little excited; it gives your life meaningKilling the Viking was a reality check. A lot to think about.
While these threads tend not to be as contentious as other quests I run; please know that future votes may have a no 1-Post ID rule; especially for big or controversial choices. This is your opportunity to secure a thread ID just in case.
>>6332560Might as well make a post, then, even if I am undecided on this vote.
>>6332504>Thrilled; you want action, danger, and fame!>>6332507Agreed
>>6332550Agreed. Making out with that caked-up librarian was nice, but almost being murdered by some huge asshole wasn't.>>6332509>>6332507I like the trope, but Max isn't Rorschach or Batman. Agreed.>>6332504>A little excited; it gives your life meaning
Truthfully, you want to put the Mask back on. You enjoyed it. You aren't obsessed with it, nor does it define your entire life... but it is special. And seeing the positive and real change you can make in the world when you leave befine the confines of your normal identity and limitations; humble and quiet Max, a Level 5 citizen for life and government charity case; actually a vigilante.You've built a bit of a reputation with the Mask, but it also represents a certain ethos. Your current heroic ethos is to protect the innocent over punishing the guilty, to avoid confrontation when possible, and to maintain a serious and ominous presence as The Mask. But your main impetus for it all? Just because it's the right thing to do.You shake yourself from your thoughts, looking down at the kids playing underfoot, shooting marbles around. You feel a little awkward just standing here, but like most people on Level 5, Carlos doesn't exactly have anywhere to sit. No furniture. Kids annoying you a bit, so you've been doing your best to tune them out, but it's only for a few hours...“You like this game?””It's alright. I feel like it could be better. Maybe we can give the marbles special powers!?”“Naw... that's too complicated. Just use the big marble as the shooter, that's easy to remember, so all the kids can play it.””Kids on level 3 and 2 probably could by gyroscopes or whatever in the marble and cheat anyway...”“I don't think they'd do that. That'd defeat the purpose of the game. It's supposed to be about skill.””Hehe, that would be kinda cool though. I wonder if Reggie would-”
...In the meantime, you've spent your time getting back into shape. After your climatic battle with the Viking, in which you almost died, you've had to take things slow and recover. The drugs from the city's admittedly very good, free healthcare helped a lot, but even then didn't totally fix everything; the rest would take time. You lost a few teeth and almost had your jaw fractured, though you were kindly given immediate replacements and have no trouble chewing anymore. The punch to your side was much worse; causing significant internal damage and organ bruising, fracturing your rib, and causing a constant pain whenever trying to run, bend, or lift weights. This put a serious damper on your training and rehabilitation. Thankfully, the Mask not being needed on Level 5 any more meant you could give it time to heal. But now? You're back to normal.You train in the garage, feeling good. You strike at your dummies and twirl your tonfas, the sweat and smell of good-health give you motivation to continue. As far as you can fathom, you are about as physically strong as you can get given your genetics, diet, and age allow. You've reached a plateau and you won't be able to get any more out of regular training. It's nothing to be ashamed of. And besides, given Level 5's criminal undercurrent of punk culture? You proved yourself the strongest on the whole level. I mean, you beat the Viking didn't you? Maybe you should feel a little proud.While you are almost fully recovered completely, and reached a natural stopping point, you feel as though trying to optimize your body just a few more percentage points, using up the last few excess bit of calories and protein you can squeeze out of your low-impact lifestyle, you might be able to shift the needle just ever so slightly. If you can improve yourself just a little bit more; what would you like to focus on?>Strike just a little bit harder and take down foes faster>Jump just a little bit higher and be more agile>Be just a little bit tougher and more resilient to pain
>>6333101>Jump just a little bit higher and be more agileIn a scenario where we aren't dealing with weapons, agility is probably the best choice, if only so we can maneuver ourselves and escape from the police better.
>>6333101>Be just a little bit tougher and more resilient to painWe took quite a beating, and that may not be the last time it happens.
>>6333117I suppose my logic is that I'd rather not get hit than to get a hit and take it, and that being a little rougher isn't gonna save us from things like actual weapons.
>>6333101>Be just a little bit tougher and more resilient to pain
You think back, considering your time as the Mask so far, and your greatest challenge... against the Viking and his gang. You are the strongest on Level 5 now, but not physically. You beat the Viking, but it was mostly luck and quick thinking; physically, you could never beat a man like that. Being a little physically tougher and having more endurance? That would help even out the scales. You decide to maximize your training with core excercises, pain, and endurance training. Toughen up, or die.But in the meantime... You've been studying with your mind too. Visiting the library constantly, learning as much as you can about the city's construction and architecture. Huge amounts of information is just missing, especially about things like exact coordinates or dimensions, but most of the utilities and water-line information you can get. It's only thanks to your librarian friend, Nancy, that you can efficently get access to the information that you need!“Look Max!” Nancy says, putting her hands to her side and swaying happily. “Noticshe anything different?””Oh... You have a Level 5 Visitor's badge? But we're on Level 5!”“Pfft... Itch's for visiting Level 4! The Flea Market sells rare books sometimes. I've been promoted enough I'm allowed to vischit once a month to pick up things for the Level 5 library! Isnch't that great!?”Truthfully, you're a little remiss about her getting a promotion, given how much she's helped you. You couldn't have made your Mask equipment without the library and her help. But you've already decided that you'd respect her decision no matter what. It'd be selfish to try and keep her here just to help you. If she manages to get promoted and actually move up to Level 4 like Cheryl well... good for her. Even if you feel a little left behind.”That's great, Nacny. By the way, I was looking for engineering books on hydrodynamics, especially since it seems hard to learn about the city waterworks with what's avaliable...”“Oh yeah... That's more restricted schection stuff. Even I can't access that. Maybe as the head librarian I could but... oh by the schway; what's all this for?””Huh?”“You told me that you were schtudying for a job. But last time it was explosions and high-pressure fluid dynamics, and the time before that it was anatomy and schowing clothes! What job could possibly combine all these things?!”Uh oh. Nancy is getting a little suspicious. Your rather eclectic knowledge needs for vigilante work has raised some kind of red flag. What should you say?>Yes, because I'm the Mask.>It's just an excuse to come see you (flirt)>Tell her to mind her own business>I just find it interesting!>Other (Write In)
>>6333634Part of me wants to flirt with her, but I really do like Cheryl. Telling her we're the Red Mask is a bad idea, though, we can't risk her safety.Any idea of some other excuse?
>>6333634>WRITE IN: I'm studying for multiple jobs. I like to keep my options open.Try to spin it as us not wanting to put all of our eggs into one basket, something like that.
>>6333634Lispy nerd girls are cute, and we already made out with her in our secret identity, while Cheryl has shown less interest. So...>It's just an excuse to come see you (flirt)but ALSO +1 to >>6333647 because if she buys the excuse, she'll still want to know why we're borrowing more random books, anyway.
>>6333647I'll +1 this. Not the flirting idea though. >>6333659Huh? Cheryl has been pretty damn chummy with us. If we actually tried we'd have been able to move forward with her last thread too.
>>6333634>It's just an excuse to come see you (flirt)Nancy's cute, she's single, she's known us a long while. And we've already kissed her.I LIKE Cheryl, but our relation with her has been friendly/professional. Besides, we have no idea what her social life is like up there on the higher level.
Hmm we are at an tie. Someone should break it. I mean I guess you could do both, but that's not usually how these votes work.
>>6333647SupportingI don't like flirting, we shouldn't get too promiscuous, especially not as out civilian persona.
>>6333647+1
“...I like to keep my options open! I'm studying for multiple fields, you know.”“Max... if you like it itsch fine, but you know that the only people who get promoted are really good at schtuff, right? You schould probably focus on one thing.””Well, then in that case,” You say casually, with a smile, putting your elbow up on the nearby bookshelf. ”Then I do it just so I can see you more!”Nancy looks a little taken aback. “Wha- me?” She lets out a little mouse-like eep! of surprise, and instantly blushes at the unintentional sound.”Yeah! My favorite librarian!” You say, to defuse the situation.“Oh!” She crosses her arms, angrily, not liking what she now percieves as a joke, at her expense. “Why'd you have to go and make me do that!?””Oh come on Nancy... I was just fooling. Will you help me find this book?”“You know the schelves by now... Nonfiction, Aisle 4. I tschink it's on the bottom schelf.””Thank you~”You don't mind flirting with Nancy. It's harmless, at least in your eyes. To compare yourself to her you think you're a catch, but come to think of it, she might only have eyes for your alter-ego. Why have boring old Max when she could have the Mask? It must be all the exercise boosting your testosterone or something; you'd never be this confident before. Or maybe it's just because you don't have the same kind of feelings for Nancy as you do for Cheryl...You manage to get the books you need from the library. Information on the deep infrastructure of the city is sketchy at best; but you did manage to get the kind of schematics you needed. You are trying to find a way to move between different levels of the city, and you might have just found it.The city of Panopolis has the structure of a layered cake. Each level of the city is basically an independent city on its own built on top of each other; each specalized to fit the needs of the population. Level 5, your level, is the largest and lower level of society; filled with the “dregs” like you who survive on government assistance and charity from the upper levels. Many are resentful, but in a way, it's very freeing and peaceful. However, allowing the poor and rich to rub shoulders wouldn't make sense; so the city is segregated. Each level's population is controlled, and not allowed to move between levels easily. Those from higher levels can to a lower level easily, but the opposite requires very special permission. The only way to move between levels are through government security checkpoints which will turn you away if you try to move to a level you aren't supposed to be on without a good reason. Many on Level 5 have never even been to Level 4, and have no idea what it's even like or what life is like there, leading to much resentment but also mystery.
To be fair, you have been on other Levels before, but only as a kid. You had to do some medical tests and stuff on Level 3, some randomized control group thing. Bad memories of white-walled clinics where they made you eat raw milk and drink warm milk and run on a treadmill and stuff like that. But you barely remember anything from what you saw up there; and especially not as an adult, you've never visited. You've always kinda wanted to see what it's like. Secretly, you wonder if it's as rich and fancy and nice as everyone on Level 5 says it says, but you have a feeling that isn't the case. Cheryl seems to think Level 4 is as bad as Level 5, just in different ways. Now you'll have to be the judge of that.But how to get between the levels? That's where your research has finally paid off. While the government checkpoints are basically fullproof; there are some large elements of infrastructure that span between levels. The most promising of these are the washes; massive water canals that let the waste water from higher levels flow down from each level, getting more polluted each time until they reach Level 5, where its reclaimed, sieved, and processed. You know from basic hydrophonics the water can't just fall straight down; it would make too much noise or cause a splashdown effect and throw up an unacceptable amount of irritants into the air; so the canals have to be at a gradual slope. You also know like most things in the city, it's built to last with as little human maintence required as possible, so there are unlikely to be any grates or floodgates within. The main problem? The washes are not on a set schedule, and fill with rushing water very quickly, which would be deadly to attempt on foot. But vehicles on every level of the city only operate on approved roads and pathways; drawing directly from the hidden LeyLine power system built into every city street. So that thwarts that attempt too.Except you have a motorcycle.With a reliable supply of biodiesel from the owner of the restruant you saved from the Viking, you can finally keep your, or Cheryl's Dad's you suppose, motorbike fully gassed up and ready to go. And you can take it anywhere you want! City roads be damned!You'll admit, it's a bit of a risky plan. But you've studied the blueprints and distances; and you think you can make it. With an average body of water passing thru the washes every 30 seconds, you'll have just enough time at full speed and acceleration to make it up the waste-water channel into the next level of the city. You've practiced gunning it on your bike out in the vacant parking lots at the edge of the city, and timing your progress, and improved your skill at driving the bike. You can make it.
Maybe you've become addicted to the adrenaline of fighting punks and putting your life on the line. This is pretty dumb, even for you. Still, you just can't take all these gifts and advantages you've been given by pure luck and let them go to waste. Who else on Level 5 could ever get to even see Level 4 without a decade of work or special connections? Much less visit it whenever they want?! The curiosity has been killing you. And besides, Cheryl mentioned something about crime families on Level 4. If things remain quiet on Level 5, well that's a good thing, but maybe the Mask could find a new purpose on a new Level...You gas up your bike and head to the wash. You wait until the early morning, where the least water rushes through, and time the waves. Every 30 seconds on the dot; with a few taking an extra second or two to come down, and sometimes even a minute between splashes. You just gotta time this right...Finally, you find your opportunity. You accelerate along the wash and ride down the ramped parapet into the wash proper, your tires slicking with the leftovers of the previous wash just passing by you to give you the maximum amount of time to make it through the concrete tunnel. You speed up as fast as you can go while maintaining control of the bike, feeling great relief at the long and straight sloped tunnel ahead of you; the lights of your bike illuminating the darkness as you drive even faster. The smell of metallic, stale water is all around you as you ride through the deadly damp tunnel, like the bowels of the city itself.Then, you hear a rumbling and the sound of water. What!? It's only been fifteen seconds, max!? You dread for a moment thinking you were off by your count, but then you realize the sound isn't the same as a normal emission; this is a small dump of water, like from a smaller, private resevoir on Level 4. What rotten luck. The oncoming water is nowhere near as much as a full release of the wash; not enough to wash you away with it and certain death, but it's still not good. Even an ankle deep stream of water has enough force to cause you to lose control, or could push you back enough to cause you to miss the timing for the real flood to come before you've managed to make it.You have to think fast. What are you going to do?>Go full speed and just power thru>Ride along the edge of the tunnel and ride above the water with centrifugal force>Look for a side tunnel or service area you can use to avoid the dangerous floodwaters
>>6334808I'm not quite sure, would powering through it be a test of our endurance? Or would it just end with "And then the bike slips and you go down lol"?Ideas?
>>6334808>Ride along the edge of the tunnel and ride above the water with centrifugal forceCoolest.
>>6334808>Ride along the edge of the tunnel and ride above the water with centrifugal forceCOOLNESS.
>>6334808>Ride along the edge of the tunnel and ride above the water with centrifugal forceRide the tiger, like Dio said.
>>6334808>Look for a side tunnel or service area you can use to avoid the dangerous floodwaters
You pick up speed, deciding in fractions of a second what to do. You never tried a stunt like this before, but you know that trying to ride right thru that water is a disaster waiting to happen, and there is no guarantee you'll find a safe place to hide away. No, you have to just ride over it. You drive along the smooth tunnel walls, ending up using your momentum to cling to it as you ride above the rushing water. Quickly, you swing back towards the tunnel's bottom as the last of the water trickles past, gaining a bit more speed then anticipated and fishtailing up the other side of the tunnel's wall."Oh, shit!!!"You oscillate between the two sides of the tunnel, even as the light of the end of the tunnel draws closer. You know you've only got a few seconds before the next wave comes; and this one will be many times larger and faster; going back and forth like this has made your progress shorter, even though you're going faster then before.You grit your teeth and angle your bike, with a final push, break out the mouth of the tunnel and fly up the curved side of the open-air wash right on level 4. You jump the edge of the canal right as the next huge wave of water is released; the water rushing down to Level 5, as if you weren't ever there. You made it to Level 4."Yeee haw!"Coming to a stop on foreign concrete, you look around, happily having exited the tunnel in a quiet and backalley area. You expected that; you just had a feeling Level 4'ers wouldn't be as comfortable around big open industrial projects or machinery like Level 5'ers are. But the first thing that hits you is how quiet it is.Hmm...
You inch your bike forward, riding it in neutral until you reach the main street. You look around, taking it all in. So... this is Level 4 huh?The first thing that hits you is the smell. Level 5 smelled very strongly of metal, and sometimes of dusty from the wasteland outside the city blown in. Various industrial machines and recycling centers gave Level 5 a unique soundscape. You'd also always see a few people; small groups of women traveling in groups, individuals moving quickly and quietly as to not draw attention, and finally punks; in groups or alone, but always looking for trouble. Here though, you don't see anyone. The smell is all different too; you notice the lack of industrial and metals, but wet paint and cleaning chemicals. Everything is bright and lit up; and the ads. Everywhere you look, you see advertisements. You are flooded with information quickly; names of brands and shops and deals and insurance for your insurance. You gawk at the cars parked just... out here, on the side of the street. Almost nobody owns a vehicle on Level 5 unless it's specifically for a job and those are always heavily locked up in garages, like the one Cheryl's left to you; they'd get stolen too easily or be vandalized. Even a bike would get its tires slashed by some punk looking to ruin someone's day. People just... leave them out like this here? So strange. Come to think of it, you should probably find a place to park your bike.Seriously, where is everybody? It's late morning, almost noon. Based on the demographics you looked up; Level 5 is the biggest level in space but has almost the same population as Level 4, which means Level 4's density should be much higher...What should you do first?>Check out the shops>Locate any interesting landmarks on this level>Find something new you can't find on your own Level of the city>Try to find somebody and strike up a conversation>Keep on the lookout... for CRIME!
>>6335679Hmm, personally, I would have tried looking for some sort of way to make an easier connection between the levels. Truth be told this is a poorly planned out travel. It's not like we're just moving to level four right? We have a lot of stuff we still need on level 5. The garage. The library books. Gasoline for the bike.Not exactly sure what to do here that won't get us IDed
>>6335684+1 if viable. Practical choice, anon!>>6335679If not, >Find something new you can't find on your own Level of the citybut if we happen to see any crime, stop it for sure.
>>6335684The wash/tunnel system is your secret "connection" between the levels. Normal people can't cross it because of the lack of a vehicle. You are not permanently relocating to level 4.
...While not saying this to complain about low voter turnout, I have noticed a drop in this thread. I think it's because of the high amount of filler updates. I'm not sure why my prompts are very weak this time; maybe too much setting exposition and not enough action. I'll amend future updates for something a bit more interesting, which will hopefully be more fun to interact with.
>>6335853It's not because of filler. It's just that I don't really know what to answer on this kind of situation. These choices just aren't very clear.
>>6335855This is just sort of an "explore level 4" option since I know people were excited to see and break it up into chunks for smaller more manageable updates. I'm trying this over 4-5 post monsters that make me want to kys
>>6335857No, I get it, but its more that like I said, it feels like a weird scenario due to our situation. I guess if it was something solely about exploration I'd pick like, >Find something new you can't find on your own Level of the cityIt's just that it feels odd because we haven't really properly found a way to operate on this level so walking around feels weird. Where would we even park our bike? It's very clearly different than anything else these other people have. And then there's there's fact that we're still dressed in our hero stuff. Do we just go into a store wearing a cape?
Don't be discouraged BananasQM, I am reading your thread and enjoying it ^_~ yay (and I do not even like superheroes)Your cool water motorbike sewer tunnel passage scene made me think of this pic related heheBut in terms of honest feedback, could it be related to your ultradark game cover intro image, >>6332502I am not sure what other anons see with the contrast settings on their screens, but your Concrete Stratosphere image looks totally black and barely discernible, usually your illustrations are very bright eye-catching vivid colours, so perhaps it is just the unfortunate near pitch black dark image that means some people have not seen it
>>6335679>find landmarks, and>find vantage point / elevated overlook, to survey layout of this city level>>6335853>>6335875I don't think the choice prompts are weak, they are fine!
>>6335679>Locate any interesting landmarks on this level>>6335875I think Souv actually has a point. If you don't read the catalog really carefully you have no idea what this thread is.
>>6335935I have noticed that less eye-catching OP images make it easier for me to miss when my fabourite quests update. That said, the little sliver of whute in black/dark blue has been enough to catch my eye so far.
>>6335679>Locate any interesting landmarks on this level
>>6335679>Locate any interesting landmarks on this level>>6335935I must admit I didn't find this quest all that easily myself. The first image doesn't feature the name of the quest, doesn't picture the MC of the Quest (or any known quest character) , and isn't immediately recognisable as your style.
You decide to look for any interesting landmarks on this level; things that set it apart. You don't notice any great works of art or beautification, even though this level is much nicer then Level 5, you think it's much more dedicated towards commercial products. That was until you notice the timepieces. Everywhere you look; clocks. Lots of them; and there are even large towers with digital displays showing you the current time. 11:59 AM. You see a few identical towers far in the distance of this level; acting as landmarks you guess.Just then, it changes over to noon. There is a soft electric chime that comes from the digital clock tower; indicating it is noon. Just like that, the city seems to wake up. Within mere seconds there is the hints of activity, then in a minute the streets are suddenly flooded. Hundreds, thousands of people file out of the quiet office buildings to the street.It's lunchtime.You've honestly never seen so many people before. Massive crowds cram the sidewalks, go towards their cars, and traffic begins to pick up. You find a parking space for your bike and worry about it getting hit by one of the larger vehicles but no, the streets keep moving with traffic. It's like the city just woke up. You smirk. While there is no punk culture on Level 4, there is certainly it's own culture. Work culture. With every business just letting out for a lunch break, it's like everyone here is on a tight schedule; all in the pursuit of business. Even the sidewalks, which you're used to having all for yourself on your level, is starting to feel a little crowded. Honestly? It's making you feel a little nervous. Do you have a phobia of crowds? It's certainly making you uncomfortable, and you start to notice you feel like you're running out of breath. Are you having a panic attack? You never had one before.>Go find a less populated street to calm down>Sneak to the back alleys to be alone>Try to strike up a conversation to pass the time>Other (Write-In)
>>6336680>Sneak to the back alleys to be aloneA hero with Enochlophobia? We gotta work on that. It makes sense, though. If you've never been in a giant crowd before, suddenly being in the midst of one must feel intimidating.Also, reminder for the future, if we ever find ourselves able to do stuff more permanently on this level, let's buy protein stuff. A commercial place like this ought to have protein powder. Or at least some real meat.
>>6336680>Sneak to the back alleys to be aloneMaybe we'll even find CRIME
You had to the alleyways to catch a break, finding a little solace away from the crowds. You didn't think you had some kind of weird phobia and, to be honest, you still don't. It's just not your kind of scene to get smashed in with a bunch of random people going about their business. But seeing all these people walking, talking, doing stuff fast; like they got places to be and you'd just get in the way, you don't know, you just need a second. You slip away off the main street, and come face to face with a new thing; a food cart wafting an incredible odor! You've seen these on level 5 as well. Redmeat burgers, fries, tacos... way more selection then the normal hotdog carts on your level! You get a bit closer to see about maybe getting another one of those chocolate shakes, like the one Cheryl got you, but you recoil from the price listed like a vampire from the sign of the cross. Just then, you feel someone push up behind you."Let me get a seat, I'll eat my meal in 15 minutes! Then you can serve 4 customers for lunch break!""I'll eat mine in 10!""Eight!"The food attendant points at him with a ketchup smeared gloved finger. "Sold! Hey kid, if you ain't buying anything, stop taking up window space!"You step away; even a back alley is too crowded for you at the minute. You walk along a bit further...>Quest continues tomorrow
>>6337344An auction for a damn seat? Crazy shit. Sounds like a corpo hellhole. Seriously though, I still think we need to find a way to have a more permanent place on this level if we want to strike against their crime life. We can't much keep doing trips back and forth every day. We'd get found out right quick.Maybe Cheryl can help us on this...she knows this place longer so she'd be able to give us advice on what's up with it. I don't think Level 1 will be bad so long as we don't vanish like, permanently. We just need to peak our head down and beat up anyone who gets too cocky every once in a while.
Past the food trucks and the chaos of the busiest district, you cross the alleyways, finding some people still out there smoking, a few enjoying the lunch break, and then nobody as you go past air conditioners and the dumpsters behind residential apartments. It's quiet back here; but you feel strange being back here without your Mask. You aren't meant to be skulking in your first visit to the level. Just then, you find an opening into a quiet street. You look to the left and right, finding the sudden lowering of the height and property values of the building calming and comforting. There is a bit of urban decay here; it reminds you of Level 5. It's less intimidating. You look at the street sign and see its name; simply Sixth Street.You look across the buildings; instantly seeing a homey feeling in the old signs advertising businesses. Just a few streets away you parked your bike underneath signs that read out AccuAccounting and InfiniCorp and Business-Protocal-Solutions. And here? Right across the street? You see Smith's Thrifts. By no means do you feel welcome on this level, at least not in the income bracket for it, but you'd take a million Smith's Thrifts and the homey atmosphere over the slick and shiny corporate big money monoliths. You're feeling a bit peckish. The food cart was a bit out of your price range; maybe Smith's Thrifts would be better? Do they even sell food there? Might as well find out.Taking the time to cross the street of the humble store, you hear a little bell chime and you are welcomed by the store owner, the infamous Mr.Smith if your intuition is correct. He looks up from his paperwork or crossword or whatever he's got on the cracked countertop and gives you a wave.“Hello! On a lunch break?””Oh no, erhm, yeah?”“No problem if you're in a rush. Just let me know if you need help finding anything.””How do I, uhh, check out the items? Do you get them?”The older man gives you a confused look, then smiles.“No no, just bring what you want to buy to the front. Unless you need help, just let me know.””Oh, uhh, ok. Thank you.”You disappear into the back of the store. It's not the small talk you mind, just the crowds.
You're allowed to just... walk around with the products? It's a little surreal. The few stores on Level 5 are not like this. Usually, those are small buildings with a glass booth you're supposed to ask for what you want from the back; though it's only a place you visit once every few months when you need something you can't recycle or get for free from the government. It's a strange feeling to be trusted like this. You can already see how easy it'd be to steal from Mr.Smith here. You could just put any of these small things in your pockets. He isn't even watching you!You look over the prices. This is supposed to be a thrift store on Level 4, right? Well... the prices are a little steep, but not that much different then Level 5 honestly. Food is pretty close, and a lot of these household items you can't even buy on Level 5, so it's not easily comparable. You grab a protien bar and, for one of the few times in your life, feel tempted to steal it. But you don't, just putting it back on the shelf. It wouldn't be right to steal from Mr.Smith, especially when he was so friendly and nice to you. You suppose, for Level 4, this is probably a very honest and cheap part of the city. Sixth Street seems like that. People have money and use it, unlike the rest of the Level, but it isn't as soulless and capitalistic. You like it. The subtle ambience of the coolers in the back of the store wash over you; and you finally feel relaxed.*CRASH!*Just then, a brick flies in through the window.
You duck down under the aisles, instantly on alert. You peak out, seeing nobody else in the store, the sudden noise scaring poor Mr.Smith. Just then, the bell chimes and some new people walk in. You watch from the back of the store, hiding, wondering if they saw you from outside... but they seem totally focused on the store owner, not even looking in your direction.“Heyyoo Mr.Smith! Remember us?”“What- did you throw a brick in through my window! What the devil!? Are you going to pay for that!?””Hold on there old man-” the slick gangster says, shrugging. ”We warned you this would happen! Don't you remember? We were offering you our services as protection from trouble, and you decided not to pay.”You aren't sure what is happening here, but it's clearly a shakedown. You look over the men; seeing a group of four. One is better dressed then the others, and is clearly the leader. The others are standing around menacingly. Not too unlike the punks on level 5, but a bit different. Is this one of the crime families Cheryl was telling you about...?“H-Hold on.” Mr.Smith stammers. “I don't- I don't have any money.””Ahh, but our services are very important. You could avoid hooligans damaging your store.” He motions, and one of the goons taks an iron pipe and smashes a display, causing a shower of now-ruined merchandise to fall onto the floor. Mr.Smith holds his head in his hands, shaking his head.“Please... times have been hard. I don't have the money to replace the store's merchandise!””It's a monthly payment, very simple. Most people on Sixth Street already pay, but the amount we told you last time? It's gone up.”“This- this is extortion!””No,” The gangster laughes. ”This is a special offer from the Pacelli family. We're resonable, you know? Surely you got something. Some family jewelery, some insurance packed away in the safe... let's work out a deal.”You've heard enough. You don't have all your equipment with you, this was supposed to be a scouting mission, but you've covered your face with your cape. Now it's time to decide on how to stop this.>Yell and get the attention of all four at once>Take out the guy in the back with stealth>Help Mr.Smith escape by giving him a sign >Other (Write-In)
>>6337805Hmm...I think we could take them, but if we did, Mr.Smith would know exactly who we are once the Red mask appears (same cape). And then we'd be in danger.
>>6337805>Take out the guy in the back with stealth
>>6337805>Does the Thrift-store have a mask somewhere around it we could wear in this moment? Or any useful items that could help us in this under-equipped situation?>Take out the guy in the back with stealthDon't want to escalate things loudly, that'd only quickly make things worse for Smith. And if Smith runs, his store is at their mercy.
>>6337915+1
>Let them rob/intimidate/wreck this store. Afterwards, secretly stalk and follow this gang back to their den of iniquity, the secret CRIME LAIRreconnaissance requires patience
While you don't have your old mask... you still aren't going to let this happen. With your face disguised properly, you creep up from the back of the store to the distracted goons; taking out the closest to you with a chokehold. You pull him back, squeezing him until he stops moving around, and quickly flinging him against the floor to stun him into uselessness. You aren't exactly a trained assassin however, and you don't expect to stay hidden from long with his struggling. He hits a can on the way down, it falling from the shelf from the loud clatter, and interrupting the extortion happening just in front of you at the front of the store.
"Wha- who da fuck is this guy?"The boss gangster, well dressed and in-white, though carrying no weapon, turns. He scowls."A wannabe vigilante? No way there are two of them now. Boys, deal with him."The two gangsters advance towards you. The way they carry their weapons is different from the guys on Level 5. Punks on Level 5 often carried weapons along with them; but they always held them out far from the body, shakily, waving them for intimidation. Blades were dull and swung to hit faces, arms; to leave scars and gain notoriety. The mobsters are organized and move forward cautiously, acting more defensively. They're violent criminals, but not at all possessing the rough sense of honor as the punks on Level 5 did. They aren't nearly as big and strong, but you shouldn't underestimate them.
And with this action; you've begun your nasty habit of getting involved in other people's business. But simply? You just can't let things like this happen anymore. It's become second nature to be a nosy little prick.The well-dressed mafioso seems to be the leader of this group. But you have to deal with his weapon-wielding goons first. With one out; how do you want to deal with the other two?Knife Goon>Disarm with the hook of your tonfa and beat down>Keep at range and smash his face with angular strikes>Pull him and make him fall on his own knife (Lethal)>Other (Write-In)Pipe Goon>Trick him into smashing a ceiling light and then going in for a beat down>Weave under his pipe and get in close with handle-strikes>Grab his pipe and overpower him with it>Other (Write-In)
>>6338876I have a write-in against knife guy.
>>6338882(I am actually serious by the way If there is line a metal food can there is no reason to not just yeet it as a distraction.)
>>6338896If there's like a metal food can*
>>6338876Knife Goon:Kek, do this: >>6338882Pipe Goon:>Trick him into smashing a ceiling light and then going in for a beat downEnvironmental advantage!
>>6338876KNIFE GUY>CAN HIMPIPE GUY>Trick him into smashing a ceiling light and then going in for a beat down
>>6338872I just realized, >wannabe vigilanteHe can't be talking about The Mask, right? Knowledge between tiers seems to be very restricted. Could there be a vigilante on this tier too?
The goon with a knife is clearly a more serious threat, likely to pull and slice your wrist if you attempt a disarm maneuver. You haven't practiced this much against the punks...Sneakily, as he approaches, you grab a convenient can of food off the shelf while he's distracted. The tip of your other baton-hand being menaced by the knife, which he stabs the air once for emphasis, before you reel back and give it to him.WHAM!The heavy can of food slams him directly in the face, stunning him and popping open, getting his mustache all dirty from the spray of gunk. You come in with a quick swipe or two to finish him, while his buddy approaches down the aisle with his long pipe.
He makes an awkward half movement, and, realizing he can't do very long swings within the confines of the shop's aisles, he stops a moment. You put up your guard to the sides, and stick your head forward to act as a target. He draws back, raising his pipe up to dome you- perfect!With a rapid rise; you slam his pipe back- but not to disarm him or hit him directly, just to shove it into the light fixture just above. His metal pipe shatters the glass tube and he shudders in place; electricity coursing through him; your baton material isn't conductive, so you had no risk of shocking yourself with the maneuver. He's hurt badly, but you know there are safety features that prevent such accidents from being fatal; the outlet shuts off in a second and he falls over to the ground, defeated.You turn to the mafioso in charge, who has since let go of Mister Smith, and taken a step back. His confidence is totally rattled; perhaps not expecting you to so easily defeat his hired muscle."Hey! S-Stay back!"You take a step forward over the unconscious bodies of his guards and muscle; he didn't even bring a weapon. Clearly, he thought his intimidation factor would be enough. At least the Viking backed up his desire to be a ruler with strength...Popping a half squat, the mafioso shrinks back as you get closer. You almost think he's about to surrender, but don't lower your guard as he suddenly pulls something out with a mechanical click.
"DIE WANNABE!!">Dodge (Hits Mr.Smith)>Attempt to deflect (50% chance to work or he escapes)>Throw a baton at him (temporarily loses one baton)>Rush him down before he can use whatever this is (take injury but guarantee his capture)>Use your last stun bomb
Write-Ins are also allowed but consequences may be added or changed or w/e. Normally I would just list prompt choices without the consequences but I figured this time it'd be interesting to show them.
>>6339923>Use your last stun bomb
>>6339923>Use your last stun bombI'd rather not risk it.
>>6339923>Throw a baton at him (temporarily loses one baton)Let me show you its features HA HA HA HA!
*TINK*"Wha-"*KABOOM*!>Quest continues shortly
You rush in to close the distance while he's blinded; defeating the mook with a powerful series of attacks. While it was the last stunning bomb you had left, carried hidden in a pocket for just such an occasion, you figure it was worth it to prevent him from deploying his mystery weapon.*WHACK! SLAM!*With the criminals defeated, you make sure to disarm him of his pocket weapon and wipe the blood off your hands; now staining is nice white suit. A shame, but it is his fault after all.“You... You stood up to the mafia...””You alright?” You ask Mr.Smith, who nods.“You saved my store. They've been going after all the businesses on Sixth Street, forcing the owners to pay huge sums of “protection money” or else they ruin their business. I refused them because I can't really afford it...””No trouble.”“Oh!” Mr.Smith says suddenly, noticing the approaching bright lights outside. “Peace Keepers are here; just in time.” He says, sarcastically. “Go out through the back!”You nod, and take your leave. You doubt the criminals will face much justice from the police, but hopefully your beating will teach them a lesson for now. You feel invigorated again! The Mask is back, baby!
In the alleyway behind the shop, you examine closer the weapon the mobster almost used on you. It seems designed to be concealed, with mechanical springs under great tension hidden in its mechanism. You point it at a wall and pull the trigger, causing it to make a snapping sound and release a bolt that pierces the drywall, taking a bit of wiggling to get the dart out.Damn, you would not want to get hit by that! Getting hit in the arm or leg would really slow you down, and a shot to the body could be seriously debilitating, or perhaps even lethal. You don't know if it could really pierce bones or your skull, but it's certainly very dangerous. While not quite as lethal as “the gun”, you still would not want to mess with this. This is a level of sophistication far beyond anything you encountered in Level 5. Maybe you got in a bit over your head...>You almost died! (Lose your Nerve, but become more cautious in the future)>Mentally prepare for the newfound dangers>Surrender the weapon to the Pks and hopefully make the charges stick (Lose opportunity to research it)
>>6340875>Mentally prepare for the newfound dangersNew technology unlocked! Arsenal upgraded!
>>6340875>You almost died! (Lose your Nerve, but become more cautious in the future)A valuable lesson.
>>6340875Hmm, but what does "becoming more cautious" mean here exactly? Does it mean we're better at avoiding getting shot?
>>6340875>Mentally prepare for the newfound dangers
>>6341023I'll explain. The idea is that you temporarily "lose your nerve" (a mechanic introduced in the previous thread) where you are unable to reach your greatest heights of heroism until you do something rash, irrational, or stupid to get your zest for life back; but in exchange for taking this "debuff" you would gain an accelerated training sequence more prepared for future dangers or something like that. Also influences how you want the character to pan out; being either more realistically written with minor PTSD and stress from dangerous situations or more idealistic and heroic.
>>6340875>>You almost died! (Lose your Nerve, but become more cautious in the future)Caught up.Haven't claimed an ID but can use my usual trip if that help on that "controversial" vote
>>6341036I see, I see. Yeah, I think it's worth it. If these guys have actual ranged weapons we really need to be able to deal with them.>>6340875>You almost died! (Lose your Nerve, but become more cautious in the future)
Hey all, sorry about the delay this time. I am going to begin working on the update now, scheduled for tomorrow at the usual time (~12-14 hours from now)
You look over the bolt, the weapon, feeling suddenly very in over your head. What are you doing here? A humble little Level 5 resident playing with the big boys and big money on Level 4? Are you stupid or something? This is the mafia, nothing like the little punks you've spent your time fighting! And you just let that one draw this on you and almost kill you. You're a bit shaken. Not scared for your life, but suddenly feeling a little foolish. Are you really arrogant enough to think you're going to dismantle organized crime you know nothing about? Stay in your lane, kid. That's how you feel. You aren't invincible, and only the protection of your anonymity has prevented way worse things from happening to you then the Viking's crushing fists or a few goons and their little pokey knives.You pocket the bolt and launcher, returning to the streets as just Max, a tourist to Level 4, trying to disappear into the crowds as the lunch break ends and people file back into the many offices and buildings; back to the grind, just like you should be. Keeping your head down and not making a fool of yourself, acting like something you're not...
Your name is now Cheryl Elmore, and you are currently on the crime scene. The Killer has struck again.The Killer is the nickname of Panopolis's own home-grown serial killer. Some other nicknames have included "the torturer" or "the shadow man", but these names were considered too dehumanizing, and only The Killer has stuck. Serial Killer still exist today, but their incidence rate has dropped to almost nothing. The same psychology profile and warning signs of psychopathy; torturing small animals, sociopathy, inability to express emotions, manipulation; are pretty well filtered and corrected in the early population of the city. Strong support networks and social services tend to fix these problems before they become a reality. Still, this one apparently slipped through the cracks. You also know this is the same man who killed your father; though none of the other Peace Keepers seem to believe you.The Killer seemingly strikes at random. While much of his profile is similar to others; A middle aged man, implications of partialism, premeditation, and a below average level of intelligence; he is a bit unique in his choice of victims. Instead of mostly targeting women, his victims seem more random, but especially unique is his targeting of self-secured men. You think this could be hints of a homosexual nature, but this is only a theory. The way he preens over his victims, tying them down in a chair and torturing them before killing them? It just seems a little twisted. More then a normal serial killer anyway. Yes, you are motivated by revenge. The slumped over corpse of the mafia man beheld the same fate as your very own father.You were always close to your Father. He was a very traditional manly man; but always supportive and always loving. You loved hearing his stories about "the good old days" he'd tell you; stories from his own grandfather. He supported you in everything you wanted to do; when you were first interested in art, then animals, and then when you began to move towards social work and even becoming a Peace-Keeping officer. Though as you became older and learned of your duties, you began to have disagreements. It wasn't serious, but you did disagree on one crucial thing. You thought all people were good deep down, and they just needed the right environment to bring it out. Your father would disagree; he told you that evil exists in man. "Evil is a construct of society", you'd tell him, which is something your job taught you. It was something you saw every day in the desperate and honor-based culture of the punks and social issues of Level 5. But now? You know your Dad was right after he was pointlessly and cruelly murdered. You know it's irrational, but you blame yourself in a small part. Sorry for not listening to you, Dad, maybe if I did, you'd still be here today...
You've worked hard to move up to Level 4 as a fresh Peace-Keeper and social worker. Then, it turned out, it wasn't enough. Evidence of the Killer's movements are higher up the chain; Level 3 or above, meaning you don't have access to them without being on that level of the city. The entire reason you worked your way up to Level 4 was to get answers, and now it turns out that won't be enough. It's been hard staying motivated, but you keep thinking on what you're gonna do when you finally find him. From the few eyewitness reports and the psychology profile; you know he's bald and travels between levels of the city, and remains at large. When you find him? You aren't going to catch him and bring him in; you're going to kill him. Simple as that.In the meantime though, this most recent Killing is not official classified as one of the Killer's works. You volunteered to come along specifically to get evidence and answers, and it's been frustrating how they don't seem to want to listen to you."Boss, I'm pretty sure we know who did this. The Serial Killer.""Cheryl. We do not use such dehumanizing language. They are persons-in-crisis.""...""Besides, the victim is a member of the Pacelli crime family. This is highly likely to be a mob connected killing. He could owe money or maybe displeased a superior.""But isn't the Pacelli family the strongest in the whole Level? It seems like they'd do this to one of their enemies. And it's a ritualized killing, not just a bolt'ing in a dark alley...""Officer Cheryl, you are reaching. You're a good cop, but don't make this about your obsession with "the Killer", alright? It's not going to look good on either of our reports."Maybe your boss is right, but something about this crime scene feels off to you. Looking down at the feet of the victim, you see the scrapped up impacted floor, a mixture of blood and pulled teeth, and an unusual placement of his foot. Like he was using it for something before he died. Something about it is fishy, but you don't really know what yet.
"Boss, I think there is a clue here we're overlooking. I think the victim was trying to tell us something before he died.""Huh? Are YOU a forensic technician? A pathologist? A coroner?""...No?""So why are you acting like you know better then our own experts? Besides, how could he communicate anything while he was being tortu- err- being battered with unknown intentions by our mystery assailant? His hands were tied up!""I just know it.""Uh huh. Cheryl... don't forget you are own probation here. I don't want you to get in trouble again; so please don't jump the gun on this one. Unless you're absolutely sure."You feel a bit of self doubt. Maybe your boss is right, but at the same time, you can't shake some feeling here that this is important. It's not just a mob killing. But what if you're wrong?>Advocate for yourself>Let it go
This prompt is also kind of boring and linear. Not sure what else to put here, I'll allow a write in if it's more interesting.
>>6342193>Let it goThis isn't for official channels. it's for The Mask.
"You know we can't come to conclusions about things we don't have direct evidence of. I think this one is a wrap; a disagreement over business associates. The killing could have been a disagreement that went bad, or the result of stress. We need crisis management on this immediately; at least if we can identify the one responsible."No no no, that can't be right...You know something here is up, but how are you supposed to prove it?>Reenact the scene yourself>Double check the crime scene from every angle>Ask for floodlights to be brought in to this dark room>Other (Write-In)
>>6342266>Ask for floodlights to be brought in to this dark roomCan't really examine the crime scene if she can't actually see it.
>>6342266>Ask for floodlights to be brought in to this dark roomIt says that it looks like he was using his foot towards something...the only thing I can think of is that he was using it to send a message, right? It's definitely the foot, but It can't be an "angle" thing like pointing at something because then it wouldn't look like it was being "used", just that it was pointing somewhereAlso, I gotta say, I do like Cheryl. She gives me that sort of "Final Girl" vibe.
>>6342266>Ask for floodlights
Maybe they aren't taking it seriously enough, or maybe you're reaching a bit for clues. You can't shake some of your self doubt; but you won't let this opportunity go to waste. The city officials don't seem to want to link this up with the other Killings; but you know better."Let's get some flood lights in here. Forensic team! We need to go over this area with a fine tooth comb! Where are the cameras taking snapshots!?"Your boss smirks approvingly, seemingly turned his attitude around. "Showing leadership... now THAT is level 4 thinking!"Maybe he was trying to save you from some of the grisly details, but you have to see everything. Regardless of how bad it looks. The corpse is illuminated better, and the telling signs jump out at you. But something about his foot keeps bothering you. Was he trying to leave a message somehow..."Hey, turn the lights over here!"You get down to the floor, staying just far enough to not contaminate the crime scene. You look closer, seeing a very, very light shadow. The lights seem to create the contrast you needed."Can we dap up some of this blood? Just around here?""Careful Cheryl...""Look!"
There was a message. The light helped you see it; but the detail was easy to overlook."Huh. Would you look at that.""Something about his shoe bothered me. This one was more worn then the other; and its position looked different. He scratched a message in the floor; using his own pulled tooth!""But when would he have time to do that...""I think he did it when the Killer's back was turned; just enough time to leave a warning. And look where the tooth is, right in the middle of that circle. It has a meaning."There, scratched into the floor, is a very lightly scratched word; GOLD. Based on how the human knee can turn and bend, it seems he was trying to scratch this word in."Gold... Hmm. This mafia man might have been trying to confess his crime in the last second. Have there been any gold heists in the past few months? Tell all repositories to up their security! Or maybe he was killed for a big score, and trying to warn his superior-"Your boss is a fucking idiot. But you aren't mad about it. This is all you needed. This guy was a low level mafioso; he doesn't give a shit about his Capo' and how much money he could earn him. In this moment; the only reason someone would scratch a message like this is for the purpose of revenge. He wanted to let everyone know who did this to him. And you know exactly what he meant.Later, the investigation team chalked up the message as to being an attempt of desperation to escape, or a hint at future criminal enterprise. But you know better. The position of that tooth, the same one he put under his shoe to scratch in his message, was too specific. He put it right in the middle of the "o" in Gold. You know exactly what this criminal meant by that. It means the Killer, the same one who killed your father, has a gold tooth. You are now just one step closer to finding him. And when you do? You'll get some of your own revenge.
You are now Max again. You are currently exploring Level 4. Soon, the work day will be over, and after that people will go about the nightlife. You'll slip back down to your Level at night time; after the coast is clear and people are less likely to see your activity. For today? You'd think your trip to Level 4 was... mostly successful.To be honest, some of the reason you wanted to come up to this level was just pure curiosity. You've lived basically your whole life on Level 5, and just seeing what it was like up here was interesting. But you always assumed it'd be like... a capitalist paradise. You assumed everyone here was just rich and happy, and you were left below in poverty land. But now you're not so sure. Sure, people don't walk the streets in pairs and people can leave out their property without it being stolen by some faceless goon but, the way people talk in guarded tones about certain figures, the way people bow their heads to well-dressed men walking the streets... No, there is injustice here too. It's just different. More organized.Maybe that's something the Mask could do something about.You still aren't sure exactly what your plans are long term. But you'd like to know a bit more about the Mafia, the crime families, and exactly what you can do. You already saved one store owner, even though it nearly killed you, and that gave you some of the confidence you needed to know that Level 4 may be the next battleground for the Mask. But this is nothing like the punks you lived with for years; you'll need to do some reconnaissance. What's the plan?>Give Cheryl a surprise visit and ask her about the crime families>Hang around the shops and try to overhear anything about the mafia>Look up any records or archives about the crime families of this level>Go to the seediest part of town and just ask around for them (Restores your Nerve)>Other (Write-In)
>>6343020>Give Cheryl a surprise visit and ask her about the crime familiesI wouldn't mind restoring our nerve, but it feels criminal not to ask Cheryl about the crime families when that's literally her job.
>>6343020>Ask Mr. Smith for more information on the mafia.
>>6343094That's a horrible idea, Mr.Smith is just some random shopkeeper, he's not gonna start talking about the mafia in detail. And the more we speak to him the bigger the chance he's able to recognize us and rat us out.Sure, he might not *want* to, but the mafia guys might pay him a visit after they connect the guy who beat them up to the mask.
>>6343020>>Give Cheryl a surprise visit and ask her about the crime familieskissing her for nerves purposes?
>>6343126Two times in a row?
>>6343162two different gals under two differents identities. Why not?
>>6343240Well, that certainly sounds like the sort of idiotic drama that a comic book hero would go through.
”MAX!?””Oh, hey Cheryl. Just got off work?””What are you doing here?!””I wanted to see you! I thought it'd be less creepy to just meet you after your shift then stalk you on your way home so I can visit you there.””No- I meant- What are you doing on Level 4???”Cheryl looks around nervously. It's clear she's on edge, like she expects everyone else to know you're on the wrong level of the city. She probably doesn't know how illegal this is; nobody does really. There's no punishment or charges for it because it doesn't happen. She visibly calms down after the surprise wears off, nobody is looking for scruffy looking dudes trespassing onto this level; especially not right outside the Peace Keeper headquarters.You talk for a while, but wanting some privacy, Cheryl takes you into her car, and then begins to drive. You can't lie, you feel a little... inadequate. Cheryl seems so much more grown up then you; being a bigshot on Level 4. You feel a little jealous. You wonder if she thinks you're just some kid.”Did you want me to drive you to the checkpoint? It's pretty far.””No need. That's not how I got here.””I'm not even going to ask...”
Cheryl's apartment...She's got a living room, full kitchen, at least one (two?) rooms, a seperate bathroom, even a little balcony. She's living the high life! Your little box on Level 5 is nothing in comparison. Cheryl is even kind enough to cook you some food after you mentioned how pricey the food was on this level; you suppose she took some pity on you.”Oh my God... this is so good. What is this!? This is amazing...”She rolls her eyes. ”It's just some instant oatmeal. I didn't have any powered Molk, so I just used water and heated it in the microwave.””You have a microwave!?”She goes off to change, and by the time she comes back, you feel much better. You needed something to eat. You want to thank her again, but she seems a bit more serious.”Max... what's the real reason you came to Level 4?””You know why.” You say, in-between bites. ”I wanted to help you with the crime families on this level, like you said. The Mafia. Something only The Mask can do.””Crossing levels of the city just to play at being a vigilante...””I'm not playing though!”
”Listen Max... I appreciate you came to ask me about my expertise in the subject, but we've got it under control.”You snort. ”What do you have to deal with the mafia? Criminal therapists? Anger-Management SWAT teams?””...They're called crisis managers.”You laugh, half choking on some oatmeal. ”Oh, come the fuck on.””Max! That's not important. The point is... this is dangerous stuff. These Mafia men are nothing like the punks on Level 5. Those are just schoolyard bullies. This is organized crime. They kill people who get in their way all the time.””Was the Viking a schoolyard bully?””Look Max. I know you mean well, but I won't be a part of this any more. I'm not going to help you.””W-What!? Cheryl... I need your help with this! I need to get the info on the crime families. You already helped me with the punks!””Yes, I did, and I regret it. How do you think I'd feel if you went and died because of my “help”?! I'm encouraging your behavior!””I woulda died without those bombs you gave me-” You interrupt her, choking on some oatmeal. She gasps.”BOMBS?! YOU MADE THEM INTO BOMBS!?” Oops.”Cheryl...””No Max. This time, I'm putting my foot down. Go back to Level 5. You've done great work there, everyone is so much safer now, enjoy your life!””Enjoy poverty. Easy for you to say, look at this.” You motion. How quickly she forgot; she was a Level 5'er just like you not long ago.”It's not like that... I just don't want you to get hurt. Please just do this for me, won't you?”It seems like Cheryl doesn't want to help give you information on the crime families. She doesn't want to help you get yourself killed, it seems. But her information, especially as a Peace Keeper on level 4, would be invaluable for your investigation. While you aren't exactly sure what you're trying to accomplish yet, you just know you won't be able to get far without her help.>Try to convince her you can handle it>Argue you just want to protect the vulnerable people on this level from the Mafia; like the people on sixth street>Call her a coward for not helping>Tell her you're going to do it anyway; so you might as well help me>Respect her wishes even if you aren't happy about itNo write-ins are allowed.
>>6343957>Tell her you're going to do it anyway; so you might as well help meShe doesn't HAVE to help us. We won't force her. But if she thinks she's protecting us by doing this, she's wrong. She's just ensuring we do what we're going to do with grater personal risk. She of all people should recognize that sometimes a calling to justice, or revenge, is not something you can turn away from just because someone with a badge tells you to look the other way.
>6343957>Argue you just want to protect the vulnerable people on this level from the Mafia; like the people on sixth street
>>6343957>Respect her wishes even if you aren't happy about it.It is enough that Max can protect level 5. Access to level 4 materials and resources can help that and even be a potential source of wealth. She can always call on us later.
>>6343957>Argue you just want to protect the vulnerable people on this level from the Mafia; like the people on sixth street"This isn't about us, it's about all of them. You think the Mafia won't reach downward to 5 if they get strong enough?"
>>6344083Why would the Mafia reach down and not up?
>>6343957Would the "protect the vulnerable" option include mentioning the entire thing with Mr.Smith? I feel like that would be something he should say. He walks into a random store, literally at random, and it instantly gets threatened and messed up by some mafia bigshot who threatens an innocent old guy.
>>6344096I guess I should add, I want to vote for >Argue you just want to protect the vulnerableBut I'm saying that I want him to mention that, specifically.
>>6343957>>Tell her you're going to do it anyway; so you might as well help me
>>6344086Never said they wouldn't. They'll reach in any direction they can to grab as much as they can.
>>6344127Based on my understanding of the setting, level 5 is so fucking poor compared to even level 4 that it's not worth the trouble to get directly involved.
>>6344096>>6344097Welp, I guess I'm not getting an answer before the update. I'll just keep my vote for>Argue you just want to protect the vulnerable people on this level from the Mafia; like the people on sixth streetAnyways and hope that it does that.
”Come on Cheryl... There are people here who need my help. People are preyed upon by the mafia on this level, just like the tax collectors of Level 5. Don't you remember?””Yes Max I know. We are doing our best to stop the corruption and extortion. It's just something too complex for brute force to solve.”You almost want to tell her how you stopped the mob from doing exactly that with your “brute force”, but you stop yourself. Should you tell her about your encounter today? If you do, that might just prove her point given you ran into trouble your very first time on Level 4, plus you'd have to admit you were almost shot by a crossbow. Maybe that would just freak her out more. Before you can figure if you should or not, the moment has passed.”I'm going to do it anyway, with or without your help.””Take down the entire mafia? All of the crime families?””Well, uhh, no. Not necessarily...””You can't Max. It's too dangerous. I don't want you getting involved.””What are YOU going to do about it? Snitch on me for swapping between levels?””If you don't listen to reason...””Go ahead then! Ruin my life for trying to do the right thing!””Maybe I will!””Fine!”Fine!”You get up, and storm towards the door, making a show of it. Just before you do, you notice something fuzzy jump up on a piece of furniture.”Oh! I didn't know you had a cat!””Whiskers? She's usually shy around new people. I'm surprised she came out to say hi.””Whose a good kitty!?”It doesn't seem to have the same reaction as your genetically modified pet rat. People on higher levels can have more and more “advanced” animal companions. You think all the dogs are on Level 3. You take a moment to stroke the animal's cheek, and it turns to rub into your finger. You turn to Cheryl after the deescalation.”...I'm going now. Be seeing you.””On Level 5. Right?”You don't want to get into a shouting match again, so you just leave. It's a shame Cheryl won't help. Maybe you'll be able to convince her another time, until then, you're on your own.
You begin to make the long trek back to your motorcycle. It's halfway across this level, but by the time you get there, it'll be night time and the coast will be clear for you to go home. You're exhausted anyway; this first day exploring level 4 was a real journey you'd say. You'll need a moment to decompress.But along the way, something catches your eye. In a small tailor shop, you notice a suit proudly on display with a certain color- that's your color! The same color as your favorite hoodie you had to save up for months to get back on Level 5, before you stitched it into your hood and cape as The Mask. It's a bright red color, and seemingly rare and uncommon. You wonder if it's environmentally protected or something, you never seem to see anyone else wearing it. You decide to have a little peek, even though you know you can't afford it. In a way, you feel the jealousy creeping up. Why did you have to be born on the shittiest Level of this whole city? You'd never be able to afford a nice suit like that in your whole life. But if you were born on this level, you could buy all the red hoodies you wanted, maybe even a whole suit, just like the well dressed mafiosos....You notice a pair talking in the store, more like one yelling at another. They're milling about the suit and seem to be arguing over it. The taller customer looming over who you can only assume is the store owner and yelling at him. You creep a bit closer to listen in.
“Waiting list!? I ain't going on no stinking waiting list!””P-Please sir... it's my policy. What would my other clients think!?”“I'm more important then your other clients. Do you have any idea who I am?! I work in the Level 4 Labor Admittance bureau! Don't tailorshops like yours need talented seamstresses? Well guess what, only five will get promoted from Level 5 to work on this level every year. This year? Might only be three, maybe, just one. What're you gonna do to make sure your store gets one, huh? Or you might not get any clients at all if you can't sew up their damn clothes. Know how much it costs to get on my “waiting list”?””W-Wait, h-hold on...”“You think I can't ruin you? Call my friends in the Bianchi's?” The man says, finally turning to notice you standing behind him. “The fuck are you looking at, punk?””A leech.”“Wha-”>Protect the store owner from this intimidation tactic verbally>Teach this guy a lesson (Restores Nerve)>Leave before he can call up his mob connections
>>6344788Hmm, now this is an issue. I wanna teach him a lesson, but if we do, won't they be able to trace it back to our face once we start acting on level 4?
>>6344788>Teach this guy a lesson (Restores Nerve)yolo
>>6344788>Protect the store owner from this intimidation tactic verballyCheryl thinks we're some immature kid acting out. Let's not prove her right.
>>6344788>>Teach this guy a lesson (Restores Nerve)
>>6344788>Leave before he can call up his mob connections.We need a new mask. Right?
He lets go of the shopkeeper to point his finger directly at your chest, jabbing at you with it."DON'T YOU GIVE ME NO LIP BOY! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHO- ACK!" You grab his outstretched finger with your hand, twisting it. He bends trying to keep it in a more natural position, clearly in a great amount of pain."Didn't your mother teach you it's not polite to point?""Ow! OW OW! LET GO!""Only after you apologize."He's shorter and weaker then you, not a serious threat to a masked vigilante. He doesn't know you beat up three armed assailants earlier today no sweat. You twist his finger again, feeling a bit of sadistic pleasure in having such an easy time in controlling him; but you don't let it get to your head. This is purely to teach him a lesson."Ow! Okay! Sorry!""Not me, you idiot! The storekeeper you were so rude towards. Why don't you apologize to him?""Ow! Okay- Sorry for yelling at you! And trying to- uhh- Ouch! Skip the wait list!""And you'd be happy to go on the wait list at the end. Fair is fair, right?""Yes! Please put me at the end of the wait list! Thank you!"Satisfied, you let him go, he nurses his finger. He looks angry, like he wants to say something else, but seeing your confident expression, he says nothing, and instead makes for the exit."...I can't believe you did that.""I think he deserved it. He was looking like he wanted to get violent with you.""Yeah, people like that always talk big but back off the moment someone with a spine stands up to them... thanks.""You shouldn't let people like that extort you.""It's just... not that easy. Don't worry, I won't report you to the Peace Keepers or anything.""By the way, about that waiting list; you don't need to pay to get on it, do you?""No. And if you'd like, I could put you above our friend here..."While not exactly the bravest thing in the world to stand up to; a loudmouth bureaucrat who thinks he's a lot more important then he is, you still feel good for yourself. You just can't stand bullies like that, and some people refuse to learn things politely and properly. You feel like you've regained your nerve.
The fancy electric car pulls up beside the sidewalk, as the man examines his red and pulled finger."Hey, you're an associate of the Bianchi family, aren't you?""Wh- What's it to YOU!?""Mr.Pacelli sends his regards."You hear a scream of pain and duke behind the clothing racks, pulling the older tailor down with you as you spin to look out towards the front of the store. It was muffled through the glass, but the unmistakable sound of someone being killed. The flinging bolts hit the glass and side of the building with dull, quiet thumps. Repeating crossbows angle from the windows, menacing the storefront with a drive-by killing; before the windows roll up and the car drives away. You take a look at the corpse; blood oozing from the many bolts flung from the advanced weapons at point blank range. He didn't have a chance."H-Holy shit!""Stay here, call the Peace Keepers. Don't worry, I don't think you or your store are the intended targets.""W-What about you?!""Are you kidding? That was the mob! I'm getting out of here!"Two criminal acts in one day? Maybe you are a magnet for trouble, just like Cheryl was worried about! You take your leave down a quiet alley; working your way back to your bike. You've had quite enough of Level 4 for one day...>Quest continues tomorrow
>>6345891>>6345894Thanks for the update, QM.Looks like this was an easy way to get nerve back with only positive outcome...
We're really gonna need a way to deal with those bolt launchers
>>6345929>Looks like this was an easy way to get nerve back with only positive outcome...Yeah, I'm not sure. I really like the mechanic but I tended to want the choices/consequences for regaining your nerve to be more serious, like kissing Nancy, asking Cheryl on a date unprompted (ignored because I felt it was "too easy" and not fitting the conversation they were having at that update), asking for a promotion at work, or revealing you are the Mask to one of your close friends or something to that effect would be the type of thing you needed to do to get your nerve back. Standing up to a rude guy with only a minor possible consequence of getting the cops called on you for assault or something is very minor given the setting so this one was a bit of a freebie, but given it was self inflicted nerve loss I was mostly fine with it. Losing your Nerve isn't meant to be life or death either, you could complete the thread without it, it just wouldn't let you do the "cool" things at the end like standing up to all the punks in the diner and the like.
>>6345964sure; I like some of the option to be "risky" and some quite safe, keep us on our toes.
You make your way back to the commercial district of Level 4. As the business day winds down, so do the people, with the nightlife beginning as the shops close. You have a few hours of walking left to do after the Cheryl excursion, so you're bone tired, but thankfully nobody will be around when you pull your bike down into the city's sewers and make your way back to your level. You miss your sleeping bag, and your rat...Your bike is exactly where you left it, with a sigh of relief. You logically knew it wasn't likely to get stolen on this level at all, but Level 5 habits die hard. You go to the little parking meter and click the button absent minded, only for it to click back at you and print out a piece of paper. What is this...?It's your fee. The parking space wasn't free. AFTER TWO HOURS PARKED, AN ACCELERATED RATE IS IMPOSED. You had your bike here all day. You guess you really didn't think about it. Finally, you read the total, and feel a sinking weight in your stomach.This is... three months of your UBI payments. You couldn't pay this off even if you didn't eat for three entire months; because you already spent some of this month. Even if you broke into your savings hidden in that nook in the floorboard, you still are no where close to this. What are you supposed to do!? The ticket even has a little picture of your bike and your face when you went to claim the ticket; you guess these parking meters all have little cameras in them.PAYMENTS CAN BE MADE AT ANY PARKING'CO CENTER. UNPAID BILLS WILL BE SENT TO THE OPEN COLLECTIONS MARKET AFTER ONE MONTHYou aren't sure what that means, but you do not want anyone to know about you having an outstanding parking bill. You're trying to keep your movements between levels a secret! You get the feeling if you pay the bill off before then, you'll be safe, but letting it fester could mean risking leaking your identity. What are you going to do to get this kind of money... You've got to get home and you'll have to sleep on it. Unhappily, you slip the parking stub in your pocket and get on your bike, making the journey back to the wash and back home. Thankfully, because water and waste flows downhill, your trip back home to Level 5 will be much less risky then going up...
Meanwhile, in the skyline of Level 4, a high-class building stands. Scrapping the bottom of Level 3; this luxury apartment building made for the rich and powerful has its highest and most prestigious levels totally bought out by just one individual for him and his family. Special permissions to allow the construction of a greenhouse; an herb and plant garden mar the buildings otherwise sleek outer design and silhouette. All for their greatest client; the Pacelli family.Having work everywhere in the city, owner of many patents and business, Mr.Pacelli is well regarded regardless of the rather negative rumors about the source of his income. It's an open secret that he is head of the Pacelli crime family; the strongest and most powerful of the crime families on Level 4; running the scene behind the curtains and becoming fabulously rich. He seems content with this reputation; as his nickname in the city is for his favored pastime. He is known as the Gardener, or Don Pacelli. But what's his real name?>Mario>Romeo>Philippe>Giuseppe>Other (Write-In)
>>6346235Is this a puzzle of some sort? Pull up the previous threads...
>>6346238No just literally pick the name, I haven't decided on his name yet lol
>>6346235>GiuseppeBadabing Badaboom
>>6346235>Other (Write-In)boyardee
>>6346235>Cesar
>>6346235Cesar
Cesar is a good name, we'll go with that.In the meantime; this might be a good time for the mid-thread check in. How are you all enjoying the thread so far? Currently my biggest regret and pain point is the update speed, which is slower then my normal output. I do have excuses for it especially in December, but I don't like giving them and hold myself to a higher standard. I also think this thread's pacing is quite slow, but that's partially because it's meant to be a slowburn introduction to Level 4. I'd like to know how the players feel though.
>>6346714I don't mind it. I won't say it's mind-blowing or anything but it's not a bad thread. As for the pacing, it's a weird thing because having slower pacing for the "civilian" parts of a superhero story isn't bad per say, but I feel like there's something missing that I can't quite describe. I doubt anyone ever watched a playthtough and much less played it, but I once watched a playthrough of Arkham Shadow and the parts where you played as Malone felt like it had the best possible pacing I've ever seen in a "hidden identity section" in a story.
>>6346714No worries, we know that you do it for free and that you have a life to live.
>>6346715>but I feel like there's something missing that I can't quite describe.yeah I feel the same way, not sure what, maybe because it's too lonely and introspective instead of more about the characters relationships.
>>6346725No, that's not quite it. It's just...the "vibe" so to say? It feels like something is missingI used the Arkham Shadow example because the daylight sections where you just walk around felt like the exact thing you were trying to do but successful.
>>6346727
>>6346714I like the worldbuilding, its very coherent and logical and feels lived-in. Mysteries and mysteries, and this maybe soulless and efficient or maybe sadistic and sinister undertone that the actions of those running the city give off. I'm getting Matrix Trilogy and Snowpiercer vibes in the best kind of way. Max is a great main character and his development is interesting. He is a bad dude down on Floor 5 but Floor 4 is a different animal and a foreign place. This thread is less mechanically crunchy in feeling but I'm really enjoying the exposition.
