godbent | 10th: The Advances of Haruhi Suzumiya

10th: The Advances of Haruhi Suzumiya

[Voice // Filtered to the SOS-Brigade // 85% Unhackable]

[This morning finds Haruhi sitting on her porch (of House 10) holding a set of dice in her hand before school. She found them last night, and it helped spawn an idea in her head. She's rolling the dice idly on the ground, so anyone is of course free to run into her before then, but-]

Alright Brigade, listen up! In my infinite wisdom I've devised our next scheme. Some people might have been saying "SOS-Brigade, what do they do?" for a while now, and we've been losing a few members here and there besides, but no more! In fact, this new one's going to hit everyone clear out of the park and top everything we've ever done before!

You notice how everyone has been going "oh it's so boring" or "what do you do for fun" and stuff like that? Well, we're going to show them what we do for fun: the SOS-Brigade is going to construct a games house, a gambling den, a casino! Pachinko, slots, poker, blackjack, roulette, craps, showgirls, minibars, we're going to set all of that up and have it operational before the summer begins!

Any objections can be submitted to me once opening night for our new casino happens. In the meantime, we'll be hammering out the details at today's meeting. It's about time we made our name immortal!

[The meeting is assumed, but any insights you think your character might point out/that you want to point out you can show us all here, please]

[Voice // Action]

Hey Luceti! This is your special chance to do a favor for the one and only SOS-Brigade. We're in need of all of the following, so any takers should step forth now! We require: A skilled martial artist, a mathematician, a mechanic who doesn't already work at the smithy, some big meat head - preferably six or more feet tall, a representative from the bar, someone who can fly, someone skilled at hair-care, a skilled massager, a geneticist, anyone who can walk on water and... a hacker, preferably a space-age one.

[Also if you want to find for for action, this evening sees Haruhi going out to outside of House 10 where she's set up some dummies and practicing her martial arts on them. She's good, but she feels sorely out of practice - her muscles aren't keeping up with her brain, and the results are frustrating]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ huh. well -- wasn't this interesting. buffy has a lot of time on her hands as she waits out for derek to finally go over to the vamp side and try to take her down. she's been stalking the journals a little more heavily, recently. ]

From the bar, huh? Amongst all those other types? Dare I even ask, Haruhi?

[ though she fit a few others as well. martial artist. hair-care. but those weren't really as official a responsibility in the village as her duty to good spirits is. ]

I dunno, do you?! So you're the one stepping up from the bar, huh? I need to jack a surplus of booze!

You're not throwing a kegger, are you?

[ 'cause she's got your teacher on speed-dial. figuratively speaking. ]

What, no! I swore off alcohol a long time ago! I just need to stockpile a bunch of it, and I'd rather get it legit than have to break in and steal it.

While the non-theft is much appreciated, it does kinda beg the question of why a teetotaler is stockpiling alcohol?

[...] It's not arson, if that's what you're thinking.

[ wh-what. ]

Well? I wasn't thinking it then but I kinda am now.

I just said it's not! Jeez, don't just assume things!

Fine. Say I do put together some crate-fulls for you -- what sort of stuff are you even looking for. Hard stuff? Beer? Wine? The stuff to whip up cocktails?

The last two - hard stuff is just never productive unless you're a drunk and while beer's a good social call for any office worker, it's not classy enough for what I have in mine.

Classy arson it is, then. I think we've got some pretty good bottles in store. Bubbly, too?

I just told you it's not-

-Whatever. Yeah, some bubbly and for the wine we'll need some good years, if you guys can determine stuff like that. The quality of the tannins must be top-notch for minimal breathing time

[ what are you, some kind of teen savant sommelier? buffy at least feels a measure of vindication with her continued arson quippage. ]

The years are kinda tricky in a place where time doesn't seem to make all that much of a difference -- it's hard to know if something was bottled here or came through on some kind of dimensional flotsam like some of the stuff in the stores. [ what she really wants to be doing is QUIZZING HARUHI about why winry might have been pregnant -- but no. she'll wait and talk to the not crazy one. ] And when'll you need this by?

Well, ASAP. But if you're going to make a full inventory for me when I'll give you like a month. [...] Otherwise, yeah, just as soon as you can - if needed I can send someone else to pick it up.

Don't sweat it. I can carry a few crates. Where do you need them?

[...Well that would be telling. Uh]

We'll stockpile them in the HQ's back room for now.

Alright. I can start bringing things your way in...in about a week. [ after all, she has a vampire to hunt first. ] If you think of anything specific in the meantime, just let me know.

[ she's being not-a-prat for once. for a variety of reasons. like being a good spokesperson for the bar. like for winry's sake. like because it's hard to find that perpetual bad-mood place when she's still remembering her tree-top date with a pirate...the kind of gesture that steals breath and blows minds. ]

Huh.

[In a way... she's surprised. But she's not about to blow it either, she exhales lightly, and then nods to herself]

Yeah, I'll get back to you if I think of anything.

[ there is a soft, satisfied hmm and she nearly bids adieu before remembering to ask: ] That's...everything, right?

...Well, yeah, I mean, I guess so.

[Do you have anything else to add is vaguely implied here]

...Right.

[ now the awkwardness set in. now that the business was done. ] I'll -- I guess I'll talk to you later, then.

Yeah, later! Thanks for the booze!

[And she does the mercy of shutting the book first]

You're... kidding? How are we even going to make all tha- [[Wait... there's Leon...]]

Nevermind that, where're we going to put it all. Isn't your place already loaded?

((Just setting it up, yeah?))

[You know she hadn't quick picked the where just yet but...]

...Huh. We'll figure out a location for later. Maybe one of the empty houses.

Well, there's a few I think.

Want me to go look? I'm... kinda free now. And it'll give me some time with my music too

...Yeah! Go for it, give me some analysis of what's free and what's not!

Okay...

[[So, she's gone for a while. Here's her calling you out a bit later.]]

Hey, Haruhi. I found a couple of empty houses. There's one with a big living room. That'd work, right?

It could, but location also matters, you know? We can't have it out in the middle of nowhere.

Well, there's this little cluster of houses by the fountain that aren't taken. Uhm... 37, 40, and 41? The school and some stores are right there too so... a lot of people walk through there I'm sure.

[...Hm. Where's a map when she needs one, there's some shuffling as she A) looks for it and then B) starts to pace when she doesn't find one]

All untaken?

Yup. I didn't really look inside past the front window, but, I think 37 had the biggest living room. We'd need that, right?

Well if you're that taken with the house, go move into it.

Move in!? Me!?

But, you're the one who needs it, right? [[SHOCKED!]]

Yeah, but I'm not about to move out of my place, and I need to to look legit.

Uh... well...

uhm...

[[Considering]]

It... is pretty boring just... living all alone.

If I move, can we get a few of the guys to help move my stuff?

'Course! After all, you'd be doing the Brigade a favor, it's only natural we'd make them help out.

Okay then! I think... I can just move in, right? I shouldn't have to talk to anyone?

Guess I'll start packing up.

Why should you? It's free anyway.

Just to make sure I'm not stepping on any toes or anything.

Oh, and I kind of know a lady who can fly, but, she uses like, wind magic and stuff to do it. She's been teaching others too. She's REALLY hard to miss, if you wanna talk to her.

Oh yeah, that one - you've mentioned her before, I think. I'll look into it if I still have the needs by the end of the week.

Alright. I'll get packing. Just send, well, whoever to my apartment. Building 3, floor 3, room 11, kay?

Got it. Some boys will be around to help you out after the meeting.

Thanks Haruhi! I'll talk to ya later, kay?

Yeah, okay, later!

[...]

Isn't a casino pointless when there's no money?

Come on, Ayumu, I know your brain's rotting but show some creativity!

Without it it's basically just an arcade.

The house doesn't always win for an arcade. We'd get people in our debt! Come on, use your head!

That definitely won't get you visitors.

Yes they will. People who gamble get addicted.

If they win they get nothing, and if they lose they owe you favors. You don't see the problem?

Who said they get nothing?! Do you really think I'm that dense, Ayumu?! Naturally, we're going to have the finest prizes prepared!

...Right.

[there's evidently no point arguing against her.] So what do you need me to do?

Well depends. Apart from the Zombie thing, what skills do you got?

[...thinking...]

I can cook.

[...]

Well you're a guy, so I guess I can use you for manual labor.

Thanks.

[though he was expecting that honestly.]

Yeah, so you're strong and don't have odd health conditions to worry about right?

Odd conditions? [besides the sun?] I don't think I have to worry about health anymore. And I'm stronger than a normal person.

-If you have super strength you should list that as a viable talent!

You said besides being a zombie.

Not all Zombies are super strong! That would be Undeadist to assume it!

Never heard that term before...

Fine, then explain to me your terms of Zombiehood.

[He's not really sure what she means by 'terms of zombiehood' so...]

Well, Eu resurrected me. She's a Necromancer... Her magic keeps me from dying and injuries heal pretty fast. I'm also stronger because normally people's brains limit their strength to keep them from injuring themselves, but since I'm dead that doesn't matter anymore.

This "Eu" isn't here though, right? Do you still work without her here?

Yeah, I 'work.' Already found that out...

Good! In that case, you can be super manual labor!

Right, right...

Then what about you?

[....] Are you going to be one of the showgirls?

...When you say it like that it's extremely creepy, you know!

[There's a snort before]

I am the one managing this project and the Chief of the Brigade, it's only natural that I be the owner of the establishment, and as such run the floor. If I'm feeling benevolent I might be a dealer for a while too.

So you're going to stand around and watch everyone else work.

No, I am going to stand and supervise people doing the work.

That's the same thing.

It's entirely different!

Right, then what does 'supervising' involve?

Management and synergy and making sure you don't screw up.

So standing around and shouting orders.

And planning everything!

That happens before the other work.

Someone needs to make sure the plan is adhered to though.

[Hey, can do one of those things! ~~He's also totally boss at hair care.~~]

Oh! Pick me, pick me!

For which category?

If it's someone who can move across the water that you are after, than you need look no further! My body is light, so I'm quite capable of running across it's surface.

[...Whoa really]

But you have to sprint, right?

Mm, unfortunately, yes. Otherwise I would sink. Is that a problem?

Well that limit my options a little, because that means you need to be Point A to Point B, right? Straight line, no stops?

Edited 2011-04-13 03:22 (UTC)

Ahh... that would depend, I think. What sort of body of water would I be running along? I can easily change direction, and as long as I can pick up momentum again, I can stop very breifly.

[...Holy crap this guy's good.]

And if you fall in you can just swim, right- or well, actually, if you're that light you'd probably float.

Ahhh... actually. I'm afraid I can't swim at all! In fact, if I fell into the water, I would probably sink like a rock!

[He sounds so cheerful about it too. NOT THAT HE WANTS TO DROWN OR ANYTHING. Just how the story goes.]

[...What]

What-?

I ate a Devil Fruit, you see! In exchange for my abilities, I become a hammer in the water and am cursed to live the remainder of my life without the ability to swim.

...ah, but then again, I'm already dead. Yohohoho!

Edited 2011-04-13 04:23 (UTC)

[...] So you're an undead thing that can't swim?!

More or less!

[...] In regards to my inability to swim, that is. I am definitely not a zombie!

[People always seem to infer that with their talk of the undead.]

I never said you were! My current suspicion is what you were a lich!

...eh? What's a lich?

A different, more complex type of undead entity.

Oh. Is that all?

[...]

That sounds scary!

Well, yeah, I mean I guess-

[...!] Wait, how is that scary?! You're dead too!

But I'm much less terrifying than things such as zombies or ghosts or liches. Technically I'm also still alive!

But you just said that you're dead!

Pachinko...? Looks like I've got some studying to do. [A gambling den in a world with no money? ...Well, Haruhi's probably got something in mind for that already.]

And what do you need a geneticist and hacker for?

In case I want to clone Siegfried and Roy's tiger and just in case. Hacking's a vital thing to know in this place, after all, and you never know when you might need to boost a network beyond it's current potential.

-Either way! I'll be counting on you to get the machines up and running, Leon.

Yeah, I'll get it done. No problem. [Even though Precis was more into actual machinery and gears than him. He'll need to see if he can find any books on slot machines. Or maybe Claude would know.]

It has to be a tiger? [...This would probably make more sense if he knew who Siegfried and Roy were.] I'm afraid to ask what network you're referring to.

Of course it has to be a tiger!

[But there's a pause here, and then a little flicker before she snorts and nods]

So you can handle those - slots, that type of thing?

I should be able to get it done. I'll need to get some sketches or ideas of how a slot machine works. It's just starting and stopping a set of spinning dials at random, right?

[And he'll pop over to the Brigade HQ via teleporter in a little bit, so there's a magical hum of energy and then the removal of the barrel lid before he continues.]

What's wrong with a bear? I'm pretty sure we have bears around here.

-Bears aren't exotic enough, obviously! We need something flashy! Something with pizzaz! Hence the need for the geneticist.

....In any case though, yeah. The slot machines are- wait you've never seen one? [There's a short laugh here] spinning dials which stop at random points and then dish out prizes based on which combos they stopped at on the three dials.

C'mon. I'd never seen a pool table before; I think a slot machine would be a stretch. But it can't be that hard. [pause] ...Though I guess I'll need different triggers for the different payouts...

[Yeah, it'll be an interesting project. But he bets Precis would brag that she could complete the project much faster than him. ...Hmph.]

If you want something flashy, how about some of the pets people have here? Wasn't there a dragon or something around?

Any dragon I've seen what either a demon lord or an old guy changed into one. I've yet to see a consistent dragon staying around and lasting.

[...Hm]

Ashton had dragons. [But Ashton was also ... Ashton, so that wouldn't have worked out in the long run.]

But it would be more interesting than a tiger. [...Possibly.] If it could be trained. [Again, [possibly.]

His snake things barely count, and besides he isn't around anymore. [..But yes, it would]

I'm going to regret asking what you need a martial artist for, aren't I?

-Do you even count for one?

Considering I've fought tons of demons armed with swords, guns, bows, axes, spears, and magic with my bare hands and survived?

Yeah. I would say I count.

Edited 2011-04-13 00:22 (UTC)

That just means that you're strong, not that you're a martial artist.

[This whole time she just imagines him... barfighting his way through life, basically]

Edited 2011-04-13 00:28 (UTC)

...I beat up a bunch of martial artists too. The Overlord liked having a few of them around as bodyguards. ...Ninja too, actually.

But if that doesn't count. What would you define as a martial artist, then?

Someone who relies more on skill than just punching things and can put out some good moves depending on the situation.

You do know that the vast majority of martial artists rely on the most basic of punches, kicks, blocks, and dodges to be effective, right? You can have all the fancy moves in the world, but most of the time they're just not that effective in real fights.

Besides. Do you really think I started out as strong as I am? I had to work for it.

But you're still a super-powered guy or something! That's not helpful to me at all, after all I-!

-Whatever! That's irrelevant anyway!

[Hm.]

...I wasn't super-powered when I started out. I wasn't much stronger than a normal person, if you can believe it.

[And this of course, being Adell... he's obviously telling the truth.]

...What?! How does that even make sense?!

Well, I worked hard. Fought hard. I swore I would break the curse over my home, and I had to keep focused on doing that.

I fought demons. Monsters. Whatever got in my way. I shed a lot of sweat and blood. And every battle I fought I learned something, and I got tougher. Mistakes, victories... everything taught me something. Through determination and persistence I got enough experience and power just to keep getting stronger.

[Of course, part of that is the function of the world he's from. Mana power tends to grow as one fights.]

[...Processing]

[...Okay, so that means his world runs on bullshit logic. She sighs and shakes her head. Might as well test the theory]

And let me guess, every time the villain beat you down you came back stronger after a minimal period of training?

I only fought the Overlord once.

...But no. I didn't get powerful by getting my ass kicked. When I lost fights, I lost fights. Didn't happen often, but I had to rest and recover, then find another way to get stronger.

...The scars on my face aren't for show, after all.

I didn't mean you got stronger form losing the fight, I meant the circumstances allowed you to find some special way to get more powerful, duh.

[...But the scars make her wince a little]

Nope. Losing didn't really give me the key to winning. It taught me things not to do, but I still had to go back to doing things the old fashioned way.

Get more experienced. Learn how enemies fight, and figure out how to counter it and beat them the next time. ...Took me a couple of years to beat one of the people who I lost to.

Years?

[But that's like an eternity in shounen time]

...Well, good for you then.

[There's a light smile at that.]

...But anyway. What'd you need a martial artist for?

-Not reason! I'm just curious, that's all! Or well- no, it's just logistics, logistics!

...Logistics for what? I mean, that's a pretty strange list of people you're looking for.

That's a secret!

...You're serious, aren't you.

How many people are really gonna agree to help if they don't have any idea what you need them for?

[He actually sounds genuinely confused on this, and he's not making any effort to hide that. Because this is puzzling, though it shouldn't surprise him. It's Haruhi.]

Obviously, I'll explain the details of the situation once I know that they're up to the task. That's why I went with some broad options rather than getting into exactly what talents within that larger group they'd need.

A larger sample size to pick from, is what you're getting at.

...But at the same time, wouldn't the vagueness and just how... strange the collection of talent you're looking for make some people hesitant to speak up?

Anyone who's too shy to to answer for that or too unskilled to have someone else reply for them isn't worth my time anyway!

Why do you need all those people?

For logistics.

For what?

That part's secret, I just need that sort of help. Now, do you fit the bill for any of them?

Well... I know someone who can fly and maybe walk on water, depending on what you mean. But he's kind of grumpy so it'd take some persuasion.

Oh yeah, who's that? I can convince anyone, given the chance.

Hm, I don't know about that. He's pretty tough.

Psshaw! Point me to the guy and I'll make him crack.

Well... I'll try to convince him to talk to you. But it'd be easier if I knew what you wanted him to do and why.

Well what skills is he offering me and how good is he at them?

He can fly, and he can control water and air?

Okay, what about strength, and how do you mean water and air: indiscriminately, only ice, only rain, within five feet?

He's pretty strong, I think? And I'm not exactly sure, I haven't actually seen him do anything myself, but he's just said water and air.

...Huh. Well, that could be useful - basically, I'm going to need some lifting and the flight will speed things up a lot. There's more to and more to consider, but.

-Wait what's your name, anyway? And who're you asking?

Me? Oh, I'm Tsukishiro Yukito. And he's... er. It's kind of complicated. His name is Yue.

[...Complicated]

Well, can you get him or not, Yukito?

I'll try....

[Hold please.

...

...

...

And he's back. And sounds apologetic.]

He says he isn't interested in doing "lifting."

[...]

That's a broad job description, I can use him for other tasks. Or actually, what about you - why're you the middle man?

Oh, I don't have any special abilities. Unless you need someone on your basketball or soccer teams? I'm really good at that.

Huh? Okay, I'll put you on a reserve list if we get another game going.

I'd appreciate that, thank you!

Yeah, yeah. No problem.

So what exactly is it that you're trying to accomplish?

Sorry Yukito, that's confidential! Once we get it off the ground though, you'll see and be amazed, just like everyone else!

Hmm, well, I'll keep trying to persuade Yue to help.

Good, good. If he consents or decides to speak with me personally, givem e a ring.

I'll tell him to call you.

Good man, Yukito!

A gambling den!

[ oh, marilla would faint! and she wasn't the kind of woman to faint at simply anything. ]</small.

And not just any den, the best one ever!

Are you sure about this, Haruhi?

[ her words are words of hesitation but her tone is one of borderline excitement. this casino idea sounds thrilling. ]

Of course I'm sure! One hundred percent!

After all, it isn't as though we can gamble with actual money, yes?

[ maybe this would make it okay. ] I'm sure no one could find a sin in that.

Exactly-! I don't know about the sin part, but gambling straight for money is tacky anyway. No, we're going to set it up so that we're gambling for prizes and for favors and debt in general. Way more creative and lucrative in a place like this.

Why do you need all of those?

Well, I'm going to need them for various purposes! Logistics, you know.

You're planning something.

Of course I am. It's about time the Brigade got something off the ground.

Getting back on your feet, now are you? I look forward to it.

[Ffffff]

Yeah, you should! After all, this one is gunna top all the others!

Top them? You have something big in mind?

Like I said, the biggest thing yet.

Don't bite off too much than you can chew.

[...!]

That's not possible, I'm the best at getting these things together!

I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

And when the time comes you sure will.

...So why can't your mechanic be a smithy worker?

...Because.

[It's half a matter of not wanting to use Sokka's people, and half wanting to surprise Winry with the results]

Are you sure you have the patience to put up with Dist?

Who?

The guy who made the fontech gun.

Oh, him? I dunno, why not?

He's got the ego the size of a planet.

You know the guy then?

Yeah, he's - he's a friend.

...There's a bit of hesitation there.

Well of course! He's loud, obnoxious, somewhat crazy, and insulting sometimes; but he's not a bad guy and I like talking to him sometimes.

But is his work legit? Wait-

-didn't you list him as the guy helping you with the "thing?"

Yes that's him. He may be... eccentric, but he's reliable.

Well if he can get what I need done then I can work with him. Just need to not piss him off long enough for him to get the job done, or put him in his place if he gets too annoying.

He takes pride in his work, I'm sure if you get him to do it he'll get what you want done.

That's what I'm counting on. Egotists are all the same.

Takes one to know one I suppose.

...What's that supposed to mean?!

Nothing!

I'm not like that, jeez!

Right, right!

[GRUMBLE, GRUMBLE. Stupid.]

So you're pretty busy then, I guess?

Sure am going to be, anyway! [Excitedly. She's looking forward to it, actually]

Shall we hold off practice painting until this new thing done, then?

[BBBBZZZZT-] No way!

I told you before; I'm never too busy for you!

Are you sure? I mean this does sound like you'll have you hands full!

Come on, who doesn't have time for their girlfriend, Winry?

I'm very understanding about this sort of thing, Haruhi. We can cut back to just Sundays if that's what it takes.

And I just said that's not what it takes! Sure, there might be a week or two like that, but on a regular basis, we should still have our time together.

Okay, okay. So when should we schedule our next one?

...This Friday, maybe? That night.

[...] Or we could have a dinner date.

Yeah, I'd like that.

Considered it done then; Friday night!

It's a date!

Expect candles and everything!

[And with that she shuts the book. she has to plan, man. Friday isn't a lot of time]

[A mechanic, mathematician, geneticist, and hacker you say? Well, Dist is a talented man, after all. But what could a little girl want with all that?]

For what purpose are you recruiting such people, young lady?

That's confidential until I'm convinced that people can help me.

I see... Then how can I determine my talents won't be going to waste unless I'm given detailed information on what it is you want done?

How can I determine that you have the talents in the first place if I'm not given some sort of demonstration? I need to have some preliminary tests before I know you're legit.

[Oh, for the love of... Dist rolls his eyes and goes offscreen for a moment, plucking a folder from his desk and flipping through it. He chooses the specs for the fontech gun he recently completed and lays it against the journal's page.

...Yeah, good luck understanding any of what's written there. But it's obvious this guy knows his mechanics. There's also some long and obnoxious math problems scribbled into the specs as well.]

Is that proof enough, my dear?

[...Okay, specs - she's seen a lot of things like his before now (perks of dating Winry) but this guy's style is entirely different and the camera angle sucks. She squints, trying to read it or solve those math problems, but eventually gives up. What she can manage is that it does seem to be legit... but it's for a weapon of some sort?]

Do you actually have the materials for this?

I have the finished product, actually.

[And damn does he sound proud. That gun took him weeks to complete. Mainly because of the lack of fonons to actually fire the damn thing. But he's finally created something to draw then in and amplify them.]

[She confesses she's mildly impressed. To herself. But out loud:] ...Okay, looking at that, it's some sort of ray or projectile or something, right? Can you make anything useful?

It's a fontech gun. [Idiot girl. He growls quietly, glaring at the pages of his journal. What is it with people and ticking him off lately?] And every thing I make is useful! I'm the best fontechnician on my entire planet!

[That's not an exaggeration. It's fact.]

If your looking for people to work for you, girl, you'd best show a bit more respect!

And a gun isn't useful to anyone right now, is it? If I wanted a firearm I could just break into the Smithy and jack one there - there has to be at least one or two sidearms sitting around. It's not like I'm looking to assassinate anyone or-

[...But wait, he has a point. Weird voice aside, this person does seem to be an adult. She cuts herself off, sighing]

-If you're talking about fon-things, that must mean you're form Auldrant, right? I'm not looking for military grade equipment, I need more practical and civilian machines. I'm not doubting your talent, just wondering if you can do something outside a weapons-field.

[Dist clenches his teeth and is on the very brink of exploding at his journal for a second time today, but thankfully, this idiot girl has some sense in that head of hers to actually get down to business. Small miracles.]

Yes, I'm skilled in all fields when it pertains to fonic technology. It's my area of expertise, and I can create various types of machinery from assault bots to maintenance robots and smaller artifacts as well. I've done some work with lesser mechanic toys here some time ago, but with the necessarily metals and supplies, I can create a large array of machinery.

I was also the first to effectively use flightstone technology for my own use before it was even founded by other, so-called experts back on Auldrant.

[Boasting? Oh, you bet he is.]

Okay, but have you adapted to working without [She stumbles on a word here. She's got no idea if "fon technology" uses it or not, but it's probably worth checking- oh right] fonons? I was under the impression that there aren't any in the air here? Or are there some and you can work with them?

[And now Dist's smile vanishes, replaced with a frustrated scowl. It's not at Haruhi, just the situation he was presented with in accordance to his work.] There are fonons here, just very, very little. It's been weeks forthcoming, but I believe I've developed a mechanism to amplify - perhaps even replicate - the ones present here, and to gather them together for fuel.

It really depends, however, on what it is you want me to create. For now, that mechanism is only present in my small firearm, so I believe you need a different model...one that actually does the job you want. For which I'll need information on. [A pause.] As well as the reasoning for creating such machines.

[He's not backing down from that.]

[Okay, so something small - a slot machine might be too much, a pachinko machine will definitely be too much, and she has electric lights regardless because of Leon's symbols so long as she hassles him. She makes a quick little hum, and then considers her side projects]

What about an engine - a simple propeller system, like for a boat?

[Dist just scoffs, and raises his head up, crossing his legs as he leans back in his chair again.]

Child's play. [Many of his fonbots had propellers to fly with, and Auldrant does have small fontech motor boats.] But you didn't answer my question, child. I won't make a thing if I believe it to be unfit of someone of my esteemed status and skill. I'm not charitable with my talents, you see.

...Do you listen to yourself talk?

I had thought to use you for my new secret project, but as it stands I should have the tech angle for that covered. Thus, for someone with your abilities I'm going to make you the only one working on a different undertaking altogether. Namely, the construction of a seafaring motor-boat to make use of out in that new ocean by this summer.

[...A pause] And/or a submarine, if you can pull that off.

M-may I make a suggestion...? Perhaps it would be beneficial to speak to Professor Robert Hastings? ...At least he seems like a scientist so perhaps he can assist you.

Oh, yeah, that guy... okay, I'll put that one on the list of potentials.

[He nods slightly and is about to turn off the journals, when he notices the "mechanic" part.]

...May I ask what the requirements for the mechanic are?

That you can work with 20th or higher century Earth electronics and/or something steampunk enough to pass for it. If you don't know what those are [Because though she met him once, she's not recalling it offhand], it's the sort of stuff we have in kitchens.

One of my country's main exports is electronics. Perhaps...I might be of some help?

Is that to say that you can manage it? How much skill do you have? I have very high demands, you know!

Ah.... I would need to know what I would be making first...? I am still putting the finishing touches on Poland-san's flatscreen television, but...

[Suddenly, he's very worried.]

[Poland?

Flatscreen?

Oh, there's a few questions here, but she just puts up a filter. If this guy can somehow design a flatscreen, then he's probably within standards. Okay-]

You know what a pachinko machine is?

Of course. My country is the one who designed them.

...Are you thinking of opening a pachinko parlor?

Oh, good, you're Japanese.

I'm going to need one of those. [Ignoring the second question] Or well, four preferably, but if you can only make one I'll settle for one.

Yes. I am Japanese.

And four machines? Alright. Any particular themes or payout systems you would like?

-Wait, seriously, you can make four, just like that?

I have many parts left over from Poland-san's television and things I did not use. It is simply a matter of finding the necessary parts. As pachinko machines are an invention of my country, it is relatively simple to recreate.

[...Huh] Well, if you're going to theme them, then you can get creative there. Assuming you know how to be, anyway, if you don't then consult that Poland guy about it - he seems to be fun. If you pick a lame theme though I'll penalize you.

As for the payout systems... well the balls would be most traditional, right? [...it might conflict with everything else though] But you know what, why not make it for tokens - I don't have them yet, but aim of them being about the size of a hundred yen coin.

...I hope people do not mind the media-themed ones then... [He is so making an Evangelion machine. Just so he can stare at it.]

Ah-- Well, if you wish for them to be tokens instead, that is doable. I was...thinking about whether you wanted them to be kakuhen, special time kakuhen or jitan... [He pauses.] Although I suppose it doesn't matter. I will do as you ask.

[Here she hits a road block. She's never- well okay she's used the ones in arcades once or twice, but she's not focused enough on the machines to know the difference between types. She covers it up with a little shrug and then nods]

As long as it works, I can credit you later. You're Honda, right?

As you wish.

And yes...Honda Kiku. [He's on the verge of saying "Otherwise known as Japan" but decides against it.] It is an honor.

Yeah - thanks for the assist, I'll be waiting on the results!

Is...there a deadline?

Like I said, it's not a clear one yet - the timetables are still being worked out, but aim for a month from now. If you want a date, then let's call it May thirteenth.

I see. I will aim for the thirteenth then. Please inform me if the date is extended or shortened, if it is not a bother.

You called?

No, I didn't.

[But that's after a notable delay in which she feels her skin crawl a little]

No, I'm quite sure you did. Let's see... hair-care, flying, and... walking on water, was it?

...I'll by flying, but walking on water?

Well, it's actually the same trick.

It's not really walking if you're flying on it.

Watching, you'd never know the difference. Hee hee.

Don't give me that, I totally would be able to tell!

How so?

Just... somehow! I don't know how it works yet, but I could see through it once I do.

Would you like to test this?

Sure, just to prove you wrong!

The fountain, then? Or would you prefer one of the lakes for good measure?

The lake probably makes more sense, or, you know, the river.

If you insist, the river can work, too. Where?

The Northmost bridge in the village, this evening.

[ Giggle giggle ] Alright. I'll see you then.

Yeah, fine.

[She'll be there. She'll be there...]

[ And so will he in fact! Sitting on the handrail, waiting for her. ]

[By the time she does show up she's trying very hard to seem not interested. Folding her arms and everything!]

Good evening. [ Pleasantries first. Mostly because it'll annoy her more. ]

[ . . . ugh]

Yeah, hey. Evening.

[ Without any other sort of warning, Joshua pushes himself off the rail and falls down towards the river. There's a soft smacking sound as his shoes hit the top of the water, and abruptly he's no longer falling. He stays on top of the water for a moment, looking down at the river beneath before turning upwards to look back at Haruhi with a grin.

Well? ]

[Her eyes widen... and then narrow. She focuses at his feet, trying to come up with how it's different than her expectations. She can't really let this bum win, right?]

[ Sure enough, his feet are level against the rushing water, and though the small bobbing of his body doesn't quite line up with the river, it's rather hard to notice a difference even when looking for one. ]

I await your judgment.

[It is - she can sense something's off, but this angle doesn't lend well for it because invariably she's going to be looking from above. She frowns - there has to be some error here, some contradiction. But it's not coming]

...Nngh.

Well? [ He giggles and shifts a little, one foot moving as if he's stepping and stopping on top of the water again. There's something not entirely natural about the movement of his body, but it lines up about as well as he's able to make it, having not actually practiced imitating this sort of thing before. ]

...Something's off.

[She's sort of bullshitting though - she senses (knows) something is off but she can't put her finger on what]

Do tell.

...Something! It's apparent, okay!

Yes, but what something?

...It's got to do with the feet.

[ Joshua looks down to his feet, and after staring for a few seconds, ]

What about them?

There's something off about them- ...What, you can't tell?

[She bluffed as she stares at them too, willing herself to note an error. She just guessed they seem the most likely]

Edited 2011-05-12 03:48 (UTC)

They seem perfectly fine to me.

[ Joshua can bluff back just as well tyvm. ]

[And she points at them now!] Yeah well, they aren't!

How so?

The shimmering is... distorting things! You can tell you'd on the air, not the water itself.

[She pulled out of her ass]

I'm not on the air, either. That's not how it works.

Well then you're not on water either! So I win.

I never exactly claimed to be, but illusions are a bit of a hobby of mine. [ Hah. Haha. Hah. ]

[ . . . ]

[TURNING ON HER HEEL AND IMMEDIATELY WALKING OFF. Nope. This will not be another fruitless argument in which he turns things around on slippery like. Yes, the floating is cool, no it's not walking on water, yes she's right. She makes a frustrated noise as she starts to storm off]

Care to at least tell me the final verdict?

You lose! [But she's not breaking her gait]

Good luck finding someone, then.

Encouraging teenagers to gamble, boss? You're just asking for trouble there!

A little trouble never hurt anyone!

How are we going to get these games, anyway? Would the Malnosso give it to us if we asked for all that?

Don't be stupid. If you have to ask, there's no point. We're going to make all these ourselves! Leon can totally handle slot machines, at least. And it shouldn't be too hard to find or make card tables, roulette wheels, or other stuff like that.

That's one big project! If it was any group but the Brigade, I might be skeptical. [Lies, he'd be all for it, but the boss does so love her ego.]

Of course! No other group could manage something like this. - Your duties for right now are simple: I need you scouring the shops and collecting all the dice and cards you can. If you see pachinko balls or poker chips, swipe those too. We'll be hording as much as possible.

I can try for poker, but what's pachinko? Never heard of that one.

It's a... popular game back home- you know what, never mind. Focus on the poker chips, because explaining that would take too much time for minimal results. Then we'll need to find some coins for tokens too, I guess.

Roger that, boss! I'll keep an eye out for it.

[...okay, she's really not in the mood for this, but - that list of skills.]

Why do you need someone who can walk on water?

...Oh right, you could, couldn't you?

...yes, but that doesn't answer my question.

It's confidential until I recruit people to do it for me.

Then good luck with that.

[Sorry, Haruhi. As someone who's now spending the vast majority of her free time in the hospital waiting for a friend to wake up from a coma-like-thing which she may or may not have caused in trying to help him... she's really, really not in the mood for this kind of game.

At least her tone is more resigned than snappish.]

[...Uh. Whatever. She sighs herself and just rolls her eyes]

Yeah, thanks.

Being tall doesn't make someone a meat-head.

Duh, but the two aren't mutually exclusive, either.

Tch.

What do you need brute strength for anyway?

That's a secret until such time that I've found it!

I'm not offering until I know what it's for.

And I'm not offering you the job without your consent to my plans.

If your plans go against my justice I can't possibly accept.

Good for you. Did you respond just to say that?

No, it was an offer to help, but I can't do that without knowing first.

Well if you're volunteering for the muscle, it's a matter of public safety, of course.

Is it? Sounds manageable enough. What do you need doing?

You'll know when the time comes.

Hn. So long as it's not against my justice, I'll help.

Are mornings fine? I teach during the afternoons.

I don't need you yet; I'll call you when I do.

Hmn. Suit yourself.

I'm Smoker, by the way.

Yeah, I know who you are. We'll be in touch.

Whatever.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

10th: The Advances of Haruhi Suzumiya

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