Chapter 8
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Ringo clicked her polished nails on her desk while she watched her class. All three of the slingers in her group had made level four. Most of the rest had fallen in between two and three, not a bad afternoon of work. "Shall we take a look?" She activated the leaderboard and walked to one side while studying it.
Top Guild Level: 1) Old Skool-Lvl 4.4 2) Green Ghost 3.4 3) One Problem 3.3
Class Leaderboard: Range Rider: Sexy Dexy-Lvl 5, Gunfighter: Oldman Crane-Lvl 5, Brave: Laffy Taffy-Lvl-4, Tracker: Carlotti Hottie-Lvl 5, Shaman: Dead Mimi-Lvl 4, Field Medic: Suga Pie-Lvl 4, Wrangler: Highwater-Lvl 3, Scout: Cactus Flower Lvl 4, Commanchero: Boomer-Lvl 4, Cavalry: Iron Lou-Lvl 4, Raider: Devil Woman-Lvl 4, Gambler: Pinnacle-Lvl 4.
Top Five Ranking: 1) Oldman Crane, 2) Sexy Dexy 3) Carlotti Hottie 4) Sunny Meadow 5) Lotte
"These are the leaderboards after the first few hours. As you can see we are doing well, the third years haven't formed a guild, but I can tell you that their average level is 3.8." Ringo smiled at all the frowning faces.
QJ shook his head. "Don't let it bother you guys, of course; they are ahead of us. They have the experience of already leveling up a character." QJ reached over and high-fived Lotte. "We should be cheering on Lotte who cracked the top five!"
Lotte blushed as her classmates cheered and clapped. "Thanks."
Ringo closed the leaderboard and walked down the center aisle. "Who can tell me what the forty percent rule is?"
A dark girl with long black hair raised her hand. Her name was Breeze; she was one of the few in class that made it to level four. "It's the expert rule. A real-life sharpshooter will be forty percent more effective in GnG than someone who has never fired a weapon. Even if they are the same level."
Ringo nodded, "not just shooting, but anything else also. In GnG, real-life talent trumps gaming talent, when all other things are equal."
A tap at the door drew their attention, Freya opened the door and leaned in. She was wearing GnG gear. "Grab some lunch?"
Ringo smiled at her friend, "yep, in a bit." She walked back to the front of the classroom, "can anyone tell me what GnG class our visitor is just by looking?"
QJ was the only one with his hand raised. "Field Medic."
Freya nodded, "how did you guess?"
"Your pistol is on your right side, but you aren't right-handed. You must keep your field bandages on your left." QJ glanced at his teacher for confirmation.
Freya stepped into the classroom, "are you sure I'm left-handed?"
QJ nodded. "Pretty sure Miss Freya."
The third-year teacher smiled at him. "I'm Dessi, level 4 Field Medic. From now on, please refer to me by my GnG name."
QJ stole a glance at Lotte, "Songbird for lunch?"
Lotte shook her head, "can't today."
"Okay class, after lunch report for your extra duties. Applied Engineering is right after that; don't be late." Ringo walked to the door and held it open. "Have a good lunch."
***********
For once there wasn't a line outside of the Songbird, as he got closer he noticed the 'closed' sign had been turned on. He stepped inside, the slight scent of cooked meat and beer lingered in the air.
"Over here QJ." Tal waved at him; she was sitting with Remmy, Anna, and Jezebelle.
"Hey, mom." He smiled at the group; they were waiting for him. Remmy had a big box of tools sitting in front of her.
"I'll take your armor, give Remmy the weapons." Tal stood up and moved to a nearby table.
QJ couldn't stop from smiling, "now we are talking!" He quickly stacked his armor and weapons on the table.
"Woah, what crap." Remmy whistled as she picked up the shotgun. "Going to cut this down, it's way too long, want a back holster for it?"
QJ nodded, "whatever you think Remmy."
"Not much to do with this armor, I can enhance it a bit." Tal grabbed the chest piece and started examining it.
Anna grabbed his hand and pulled him away from the two engineers. "Hit me QJ, what can I look up for you?"
"Oh okay. Find anything you can about Dixie Jones and the quest 'Something Special.' Also, any good hunting area's around Laredo."
Anna nodded and immediately opened her hud.
QJ felt Jezebelle's eyes on him, "can you identify equipment?"
"Yes, for a price." Her shiny black hair hung down over one shoulder; intricate floral tattoos were visible on her bare arms. Her painted lips curved in a smile, "show me."
QJ nodded, she always said that but never really asked for anything. He handed her the ring that dropped off the named Ant in the caves.
"Oh... you're giving me a ring? Very sudden." Her dark eyes flashed at him before she held the silver band up to her eye. "So nice... it's a Fade Ring."
Fade Ring
Description: Escape most
peoples notice for a few seconds.
QJ had never heard of a Fade Ring, but he did know that stealth items were non-existent in GnG. Only the Scout class possessed stealth ability. "It's like a low-level temporary Camouflage?"
Jezebelle nodded, "super rare drop, these are never sold in the market place because everyone wants them." She handed the ring back to him.
"Thanks, Jezi" He slipped the ring on and noticed that she was still watching him.
She glanced over at Tal who was busy working on his armor. "Come by the shop after school QJ," her voice was soft and sultry.
QJ grinned and shook his head, that was way more trouble than he wanted.
Jezi bit her lip, her dark eyes staring. "You don't want a tattoo that enhances stealth items?"
"You have something like that?" QJ knew that her work was highly sought after by every gamer in Exodus.
She shook her head, "nothing yet, but I have got a few ideas that could work. If nothing else you'll end up with some nice ink."
QJ glanced at his hud, "damn, I have to get back already."
Jezi waved her slender hand, "I'll close early, so come by when you're done."
"Thanks, Jezi." QJ walked over to Remmy's table and kissed the top of her head. "I saw Angel this morning."
Remmy smiled at him, "you did? Was she being good?"
"Yep, very good. I have to go back to school now." QJ glanced at the Shotgun; it had already been taken apart.
"Okay QJ. I'll be done by the time school is over." Remmy pulled her goggles over her eyes and started taking his pistol apart.
"Gotta go Mom." QJ bent down and gave Tal a quick kiss on the cheek.
"Okay hun, love you." Tal barely looked up before continuing her work.
"Love you too." QJ exited the Songbird and made his way back towards the Exodus Academy.
******
Lotte peeked over the stall wall. "I should say thank you."
QJ had a handful of straw in his hand and was rubbing down Scorch. "You standing on a hay bale or something?" She had moved her new horse into the stall next to Scorch. It was a sleek looking black filly, although a bit small it looked fast.
She hadn't stopped talking since she put her in the stall. "Huh? What's that mean?"
QJ kept a straight face, "just that you're short... ya know; half pint, shrimp boat, itty bitty."
Lotte glared, but her hand covering a laugh ruined the effect. "Very funny." She tossed hay at him and then disappeared. "What should I name her?"
QJ started scratching Scorch's ears, a practice that the big horse loved. "How about Viento?"
The top of Lotte's head popped up over the stable wall again. "Viento? What's that mean?"
"It's Spanish for Wind." QJ finished up with Scorch and secured the Stable Gate. "Oh, and thank me for what?"
Lotte met him in the front of the stalls, "Tal got my mom a job interview at the Fora Academy."
"Really? That has nothing to do with me." QJ frowned when he noticed Maya and Nina walking toward them. "What department?"
"Applied Science I think." She chased after QJ who had started walking away.
He smiled when he heard the department. "Naomi Gajendra's department, she's super smart."
Nina's voice called out to them. "QJ! Wait up a sec!"
The two freshmen turned to see the third years closing in on them. Lotte raised an eyebrow, "run?"
"Yep!" QJ sprinted for the Academy entrance, Lotte right on his heels. They heard the shouts of protest as they raced down the hallway and made it safely to their homeroom. They both entered the room laughing; no one had arrived yet.
"Very funny!" Maya arrived at the open doorway a moment later; they had chased them, Nina was shaking her fist at QJ.
QJ laughed, "only teasing. What's up, guys?"
Maya walked in and stood before QJ's desk, her pale face blushing. "I want you to watch my most recent attempt at 12 bells."
QJ shrugged, he had watched it a few times when he had planned his attempt. "I've seen it already; you were close."
"...." Maya.
"What could she do to improve smarty pants?" Nina crossed her arms, her pretty face scowling.
QJ gave her a deadpan face. "Um... go faster."
Maya bowed her head slightly, "please advise Quinn."
QJ felt his face twitching; she had pulled out his first name. "On the last two turns, you controlled her too much."
Maya nodded, "she was drifting wide."
QJ shook his head, "she was accelerating."
Nina slammed her hand down on QJ's desk, "is that sound advice QJ?"
"Trust your horse Maya, and she'll bring you home."
"You two ladies lost?" Ringo walked in, her usually serious face had the remnants of a smile.
"Sorry Miss Chi, we were just getting advice from QJ."
"Call me Ringo please." She watched them leave the room and then turned toward her students. "What did those two want?"
"Maya wants to squeeze out a few more seconds in her 12 bell run." QJ stared at the twin holsters his teacher was sporting, "Navy Colts? Are they a matched pair?"
Ringo's face broke into a broad smile, "you are very observant QJ."
"Sweet guns... if a bit heavy." QJ smiled innocently at her.
Ringo had her thumbs looped in her belt. "Oh? Want to try me again QJ?"
QJ shook his head, "my dad thought he'd come in and give you a try."
Ringo's face turned red, her mouth opened and closed a few times. No one had to remind her that Quinn Riley was one of two people who had broken the coveted .09. "No fair..."
QJ shrugged at her without sympathy, "you were bullying me."
Her blue eyes stared at him. "Fine, we'll forget this."
"Of course... I did win last." QJ felt he had to point it out.
************
Advanced Sawed-Off Shotgun
Drum-Fed
Special Effect: Chance to Stun.
+ 10 to Stamina
Battle Rating 7.4
Advanced Kevlar Armor
Medium Armor
Interwoven Kevlar fabric
and Durasteel plates.
+10 Strength
Battle Rating 7.2
Extended Range Pistol
Six-inch Barrel Extension
Chamber Modified to accept
Carbine Rifle bullets. Special
Effect: Increased Accuracy.
+5 Perception
Battle Rating 8
"Are you kidding me? Now we are talking!" QJ hugged Tal and Remmy at the same time. Battle Rating (BR) for the starter kit was between 2 and 2.5. It was based on a scale from 1 to 12.
Tal's blue eyes sparkled. "That gear was too crappy for my baby."
Remmy nodded, "yep, too crappy for our baby."
QJ laughed at the two engineers, "thank you."
"Oh and try this on." Tal handed him two holster's, neither one of them had belts or straps.
One was for the shotgun and the other for the pistol. "How do I put it on?"
"Your armor is slotted on both sides." Remmy grabbed the Shotgun holster and with a 'click' locked into place over his left shoulder.
QJ slid the shotgun into place, the handle stuck up over his left shoulder. "Wow, that is really slick."
Tal took the other holster and locked it into place on the right side. "We collaborated on the design, it worked out nicely."
QJ holstered the pistol over his right shoulder, then pulled it out smoothly. "Yeah, that's going to work well. Easy to carry and won't get in my way."
Remmy clapped her hands, her face beaming. "As you get new gear, we'll keep at it!"
"You're spoiling me, but I'll accept it." QJ put everything back in his inventory.
"Oh hey, Gella (Hard G) was looking for you." Tal had put her tools away and was getting ready to leave.
"She was?" Gella was actually Ella Riley. Toddler QJ couldn't say Grandma Ella, eventually, he settled on Gella. It had stuck through his childhood QJ had grown up with a virtual grandma who couldn't hug or hold him. When QJ turned five and was finally allowed to use a virtual headset, he had latched onto her throughout the next day, refusing to let go. The incident had caused the two to forge a special bond.
"Yep, her and Gus had to attend a virtual conference in Geneva, she said she'd catch up with you later." Tal kissed her son on the cheek and then hugged Remmy. "Your father is taking me out to dinner, so there's money on the island for take-out or pizza."
"Thanks mom, have fun." He waved as the two engineers walked out of the Songbird.
A few minutes later QJ walked into 'The Painted Lady Tattoo Parlor,' the sweet smell of incense tickled his nostrils. "That smells like Oatmeal Raisin Cookies."
A laugh from the back room caused him to turn. "It takes the characteristic of whatever your favorite scent is." Jezi entered through the beaded doorway. She was wearing a red silk robe that hung down to her knees, it was loosely tied.
"Getting ready for bed?" She was barefoot, her shiny black hair hung down to her waist.
"Have a seat, gotta discuss our options." Jezi motioned for him to sit in the customer's chair, her expression was strictly professional.
QJ took a seat, letting his body sink into the comfortable chair. "Wow, I need one of these."
She held up two bottles, one in each hand. Both bottles contained liquid, one was black and the other gold. "These are both dragon blood. The gold blood is much more effective than the black, although the black is very good too."
"Which one are you going to use?" QJ had to concentrate to maintain eye contact, the top of her robe had slid open a bit when she held up the bottles.
"That all depends on you. The Gold blood has to fuse directly with your blood. To be effective you have to be extremely agitated." She gave QJ a friendly smile and sat the black bottle down.
"Define agitated."
"Take your pick, anger, despair, rage, passion." She flipped a switch on the wall, the lights of the room dimmed, but the one over the chair brightened substantially. QJ Could feel the heat of the lamp on his face. "I've used the whip on customers, hot candle wax, open flames. It doesn't have to hurt though, I have many other methods."
Jezi gave a discontented sigh when QJ stood up and walked to the door. "You don't have to leave, we can just forget it and use the black bottle."
QJ locked the door and resumed his place in the customer's chair. "Show me what you have in mind."
Jezi pulled out a sketch of a Draconian thief when she shifted the drawing, the Draconian faded away. "It's something I've never attempted. The better the fusion process..."
"The better the result?" QJ stared at the sketch, the eyes seemed to follow him.
She nodded and slipped off her robe. "Your a young healthy male, so let's try the basics." Her skin was soft and smooth, brushing against him as she straddled his legs. The reptilian tattoos on her chest squirmed, her hard nipples pushed against his chest. She bent her head and touched her lips to his. "Hmm. we have to do a little better, bear with me a bit.
She reached behind him and pulled a small box from the counter. "You had to have heard the story about this."
Mask of Fortune
Disguise: Unique
The wearer can change their
appearance and voice.
She placed it on her face, it blended in perfectly without changing anything. "Let's start, shall we? There were quite a few people at your afterparty the other night. How about this one?"
QJ shook his head as her faced changed to match Anna. "Definitely not Anna."
"No? I thought perhaps you liked older women. This one then?"
"Again QJ shook his head."
"Oh I know, I did notice her glancing your way." Jezi's face changed again, this time QJ's eyes widened in surprise.
"No?" Jezi leaned forward, letting a soft hand trace down his stomach to his waist. "Oh, it appears we have a winner."
QJ kissed her soft lips while her hands easily removed his clothes. Their tongues tasting each other as she pushed her hips against him
She nodded to herself and reached between them, guiding him into her suddenly, causing them both to gasp in pleasure. She moved slowly, gyrating her hips while moaning softly. "Okay, slow it down." She leaned past him and removed the cap from the bottle, from somewhere she produced a tattoo iron and filled the reservoir carefully.
QJ leaned back in the chair, keeping a firm grip on her waist so she wouldn't slide off.
She put a hand on his chest and leaned forward, she started to move her hips slowly, in small circular motions. "Okay, I'm going to start."
The entire process took an hour, when she had finished the tattoo, she carefully sealed it with red wax. She nodded to him and started moving faster, quickly taking them both to the point of no return.
Afterward, she lay against him, breathing heavily. She had removed the mask and once again appeared as herself. Normally she would rush the customer out at this point, but instead, they talked easily without constraint. She slyly kissed him before getting up.
"Do you think it worked?" QJ buttoned his shirt, careful not to disturb the wax seal.
She wrapped the robe around her waist and tied it up. "Without a doubt, I've never seen the Gold Blood fuse so strongly."
QJ scratched his head, finally starting to feel a little embarrassed.
"No payment will be accepted of course, I only require your confidentiality." She tied her long hair in a bun while she talked, grabbing his hand she walked him to the door.
"Of course." He bent and kissed her lips, causing her to smile in surprise. "Goodnight Jezi."
"Night QJ."
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Ringo clicked her polished nails on her desk while she watched her class. All three of the slingers in her group had made level four. Most of the rest had fallen in between two and three, not a bad afternoon of work. "Shall we take a look?" She activated the leaderboard and walked to one side while studying it.
Top Guild Level: 1) Old Skool-Lvl 4.4 2) Green Ghost 3.4 3) One Problem 3.3
Class Leaderboard: Range Rider: Sexy Dexy-Lvl 5, Gunfighter: Oldman Crane-Lvl 5, Brave: Laffy Taffy-Lvl-4, Tracker: Carlotti Hottie-Lvl 5, Shaman: Dead Mimi-Lvl 4, Field Medic: Suga Pie-Lvl 4, Wrangler: Highwater-Lvl 3, Scout: Cactus Flower Lvl 4, Commanchero: Boomer-Lvl 4, Cavalry: Iron Lou-Lvl 4, Raider: Devil Woman-Lvl 4, Gambler: Pinnacle-Lvl 4.
Top Five Ranking: 1) Oldman Crane, 2) Sexy Dexy 3) Carlotti Hottie 4) Sunny Meadow 5) Lotte
"These are the leaderboards after the first few hours. As you can see we are doing well, the third years haven't formed a guild, but I can tell you that their average level is 3.8." Ringo smiled at all the frowning faces.
QJ shook his head. "Don't let it bother you guys, of course; they are ahead of us. They have the experience of already leveling up a character." QJ reached over and high-fived Lotte. "We should be cheering on Lotte who cracked the top five!"
Lotte blushed as her classmates cheered and clapped. "Thanks."
Ringo closed the leaderboard and walked down the center aisle. "Who can tell me what the forty percent rule is?"
A dark girl with long black hair raised her hand. Her name was Breeze; she was one of the few in class that made it to level four. "It's the expert rule. A real-life sharpshooter will be forty percent more effective in GnG than someone who has never fired a weapon. Even if they are the same level."
Ringo nodded, "not just shooting, but anything else also. In GnG, real-life talent trumps gaming talent, when all other things are equal."
A tap at the door drew their attention, Freya opened the door and leaned in. She was wearing GnG gear. "Grab some lunch?"
Ringo smiled at her friend, "yep, in a bit." She walked back to the front of the classroom, "can anyone tell me what GnG class our visitor is just by looking?"
QJ was the only one with his hand raised. "Field Medic."
Freya nodded, "how did you guess?"
"Your pistol is on your right side, but you aren't right-handed. You must keep your field bandages on your left." QJ glanced at his teacher for confirmation.
Freya stepped into the classroom, "are you sure I'm left-handed?"
QJ nodded. "Pretty sure Miss Freya."
The third-year teacher smiled at him. "I'm Dessi, level 4 Field Medic. From now on, please refer to me by my GnG name."
QJ stole a glance at Lotte, "Songbird for lunch?"
Lotte shook her head, "can't today."
"Okay class, after lunch report for your extra duties. Applied Engineering is right after that; don't be late." Ringo walked to the door and held it open. "Have a good lunch."
***********
For once there wasn't a line outside of the Songbird, as he got closer he noticed the 'closed' sign had been turned on. He stepped inside, the slight scent of cooked meat and beer lingered in the air.
"Over here QJ." Tal waved at him; she was sitting with Remmy, Anna, and Jezebelle.
"Hey, mom." He smiled at the group; they were waiting for him. Remmy had a big box of tools sitting in front of her.
"I'll take your armor, give Remmy the weapons." Tal stood up and moved to a nearby table.
QJ couldn't stop from smiling, "now we are talking!" He quickly stacked his armor and weapons on the table.
"Woah, what crap." Remmy whistled as she picked up the shotgun. "Going to cut this down, it's way too long, want a back holster for it?"
QJ nodded, "whatever you think Remmy."
"Not much to do with this armor, I can enhance it a bit." Tal grabbed the chest piece and started examining it.
Anna grabbed his hand and pulled him away from the two engineers. "Hit me QJ, what can I look up for you?"
"Oh okay. Find anything you can about Dixie Jones and the quest 'Something Special.' Also, any good hunting area's around Laredo."
Anna nodded and immediately opened her hud.
QJ felt Jezebelle's eyes on him, "can you identify equipment?"
"Yes, for a price." Her shiny black hair hung down over one shoulder; intricate floral tattoos were visible on her bare arms. Her painted lips curved in a smile, "show me."
QJ nodded, she always said that but never really asked for anything. He handed her the ring that dropped off the named Ant in the caves.
"Oh... you're giving me a ring? Very sudden." Her dark eyes flashed at him before she held the silver band up to her eye. "So nice... it's a Fade Ring."
Fade Ring
Description: Escape most
peoples notice for a few seconds.
QJ had never heard of a Fade Ring, but he did know that stealth items were non-existent in GnG. Only the Scout class possessed stealth ability. "It's like a low-level temporary Camouflage?"
Jezebelle nodded, "super rare drop, these are never sold in the market place because everyone wants them." She handed the ring back to him.
"Thanks, Jezi" He slipped the ring on and noticed that she was still watching him.
She glanced over at Tal who was busy working on his armor. "Come by the shop after school QJ," her voice was soft and sultry.
QJ grinned and shook his head, that was way more trouble than he wanted.
Jezi bit her lip, her dark eyes staring. "You don't want a tattoo that enhances stealth items?"
"You have something like that?" QJ knew that her work was highly sought after by every gamer in Exodus.
She shook her head, "nothing yet, but I have got a few ideas that could work. If nothing else you'll end up with some nice ink."
QJ glanced at his hud, "damn, I have to get back already."
Jezi waved her slender hand, "I'll close early, so come by when you're done."
"Thanks, Jezi." QJ walked over to Remmy's table and kissed the top of her head. "I saw Angel this morning."
Remmy smiled at him, "you did? Was she being good?"
"Yep, very good. I have to go back to school now." QJ glanced at the Shotgun; it had already been taken apart.
"Okay QJ. I'll be done by the time school is over." Remmy pulled her goggles over her eyes and started taking his pistol apart.
"Gotta go Mom." QJ bent down and gave Tal a quick kiss on the cheek.
"Okay hun, love you." Tal barely looked up before continuing her work.
"Love you too." QJ exited the Songbird and made his way back towards the Exodus Academy.
******
Lotte peeked over the stall wall. "I should say thank you."
QJ had a handful of straw in his hand and was rubbing down Scorch. "You standing on a hay bale or something?" She had moved her new horse into the stall next to Scorch. It was a sleek looking black filly, although a bit small it looked fast.
She hadn't stopped talking since she put her in the stall. "Huh? What's that mean?"
QJ kept a straight face, "just that you're short... ya know; half pint, shrimp boat, itty bitty."
Lotte glared, but her hand covering a laugh ruined the effect. "Very funny." She tossed hay at him and then disappeared. "What should I name her?"
QJ started scratching Scorch's ears, a practice that the big horse loved. "How about Viento?"
The top of Lotte's head popped up over the stable wall again. "Viento? What's that mean?"
"It's Spanish for Wind." QJ finished up with Scorch and secured the Stable Gate. "Oh, and thank me for what?"
Lotte met him in the front of the stalls, "Tal got my mom a job interview at the Fora Academy."
"Really? That has nothing to do with me." QJ frowned when he noticed Maya and Nina walking toward them. "What department?"
"Applied Science I think." She chased after QJ who had started walking away.
He smiled when he heard the department. "Naomi Gajendra's department, she's super smart."
Nina's voice called out to them. "QJ! Wait up a sec!"
The two freshmen turned to see the third years closing in on them. Lotte raised an eyebrow, "run?"
"Yep!" QJ sprinted for the Academy entrance, Lotte right on his heels. They heard the shouts of protest as they raced down the hallway and made it safely to their homeroom. They both entered the room laughing; no one had arrived yet.
"Very funny!" Maya arrived at the open doorway a moment later; they had chased them, Nina was shaking her fist at QJ.
QJ laughed, "only teasing. What's up, guys?"
Maya walked in and stood before QJ's desk, her pale face blushing. "I want you to watch my most recent attempt at 12 bells."
QJ shrugged, he had watched it a few times when he had planned his attempt. "I've seen it already; you were close."
"...." Maya.
"What could she do to improve smarty pants?" Nina crossed her arms, her pretty face scowling.
QJ gave her a deadpan face. "Um... go faster."
Maya bowed her head slightly, "please advise Quinn."
QJ felt his face twitching; she had pulled out his first name. "On the last two turns, you controlled her too much."
Maya nodded, "she was drifting wide."
QJ shook his head, "she was accelerating."
Nina slammed her hand down on QJ's desk, "is that sound advice QJ?"
"Trust your horse Maya, and she'll bring you home."
"You two ladies lost?" Ringo walked in, her usually serious face had the remnants of a smile.
"Sorry Miss Chi, we were just getting advice from QJ."
"Call me Ringo please." She watched them leave the room and then turned toward her students. "What did those two want?"
"Maya wants to squeeze out a few more seconds in her 12 bell run." QJ stared at the twin holsters his teacher was sporting, "Navy Colts? Are they a matched pair?"
Ringo's face broke into a broad smile, "you are very observant QJ."
"Sweet guns... if a bit heavy." QJ smiled innocently at her.
Ringo had her thumbs looped in her belt. "Oh? Want to try me again QJ?"
QJ shook his head, "my dad thought he'd come in and give you a try."
Ringo's face turned red, her mouth opened and closed a few times. No one had to remind her that Quinn Riley was one of two people who had broken the coveted .09. "No fair..."
QJ shrugged at her without sympathy, "you were bullying me."
Her blue eyes stared at him. "Fine, we'll forget this."
"Of course... I did win last." QJ felt he had to point it out.
************
Advanced Sawed-Off Shotgun
Drum-Fed
Special Effect: Chance to Stun.
+ 10 to Stamina
Battle Rating 7.4
Advanced Kevlar Armor
Medium Armor
Interwoven Kevlar fabric
and Durasteel plates.
+10 Strength
Battle Rating 7.2
Extended Range Pistol
Six-inch Barrel Extension
Chamber Modified to accept
Carbine Rifle bullets. Special
Effect: Increased Accuracy.
+5 Perception
Battle Rating 8
"Are you kidding me? Now we are talking!" QJ hugged Tal and Remmy at the same time. Battle Rating (BR) for the starter kit was between 2 and 2.5. It was based on a scale from 1 to 12.
Tal's blue eyes sparkled. "That gear was too crappy for my baby."
Remmy nodded, "yep, too crappy for our baby."
QJ laughed at the two engineers, "thank you."
"Oh and try this on." Tal handed him two holster's, neither one of them had belts or straps.
One was for the shotgun and the other for the pistol. "How do I put it on?"
"Your armor is slotted on both sides." Remmy grabbed the Shotgun holster and with a 'click' locked into place over his left shoulder.
QJ slid the shotgun into place, the handle stuck up over his left shoulder. "Wow, that is really slick."
Tal took the other holster and locked it into place on the right side. "We collaborated on the design, it worked out nicely."
QJ holstered the pistol over his right shoulder, then pulled it out smoothly. "Yeah, that's going to work well. Easy to carry and won't get in my way."
Remmy clapped her hands, her face beaming. "As you get new gear, we'll keep at it!"
"You're spoiling me, but I'll accept it." QJ put everything back in his inventory.
"Oh hey, Gella (Hard G) was looking for you." Tal had put her tools away and was getting ready to leave.
"She was?" Gella was actually Ella Riley. Toddler QJ couldn't say Grandma Ella, eventually, he settled on Gella. It had stuck through his childhood QJ had grown up with a virtual grandma who couldn't hug or hold him. When QJ turned five and was finally allowed to use a virtual headset, he had latched onto her throughout the next day, refusing to let go. The incident had caused the two to forge a special bond.
"Yep, her and Gus had to attend a virtual conference in Geneva, she said she'd catch up with you later." Tal kissed her son on the cheek and then hugged Remmy. "Your father is taking me out to dinner, so there's money on the island for take-out or pizza."
"Thanks mom, have fun." He waved as the two engineers walked out of the Songbird.
A few minutes later QJ walked into 'The Painted Lady Tattoo Parlor,' the sweet smell of incense tickled his nostrils. "That smells like Oatmeal Raisin Cookies."
A laugh from the back room caused him to turn. "It takes the characteristic of whatever your favorite scent is." Jezi entered through the beaded doorway. She was wearing a red silk robe that hung down to her knees, it was loosely tied.
"Getting ready for bed?" She was barefoot, her shiny black hair hung down to her waist.
"Have a seat, gotta discuss our options." Jezi motioned for him to sit in the customer's chair, her expression was strictly professional.
QJ took a seat, letting his body sink into the comfortable chair. "Wow, I need one of these."
She held up two bottles, one in each hand. Both bottles contained liquid, one was black and the other gold. "These are both dragon blood. The gold blood is much more effective than the black, although the black is very good too."
"Which one are you going to use?" QJ had to concentrate to maintain eye contact, the top of her robe had slid open a bit when she held up the bottles.
"That all depends on you. The Gold blood has to fuse directly with your blood. To be effective you have to be extremely agitated." She gave QJ a friendly smile and sat the black bottle down.
"Define agitated."
"Take your pick, anger, despair, rage, passion." She flipped a switch on the wall, the lights of the room dimmed, but the one over the chair brightened substantially. QJ Could feel the heat of the lamp on his face. "I've used the whip on customers, hot candle wax, open flames. It doesn't have to hurt though, I have many other methods."
Jezi gave a discontented sigh when QJ stood up and walked to the door. "You don't have to leave, we can just forget it and use the black bottle."
QJ locked the door and resumed his place in the customer's chair. "Show me what you have in mind."
Jezi pulled out a sketch of a Draconian thief when she shifted the drawing, the Draconian faded away. "It's something I've never attempted. The better the fusion process..."
"The better the result?" QJ stared at the sketch, the eyes seemed to follow him.
She nodded and slipped off her robe. "Your a young healthy male, so let's try the basics." Her skin was soft and smooth, brushing against him as she straddled his legs. The reptilian tattoos on her chest squirmed, her hard nipples pushed against his chest. She bent her head and touched her lips to his. "Hmm. we have to do a little better, bear with me a bit.
She reached behind him and pulled a small box from the counter. "You had to have heard the story about this."
Mask of Fortune
Disguise: Unique
The wearer can change their
appearance and voice.
She placed it on her face, it blended in perfectly without changing anything. "Let's start, shall we? There were quite a few people at your afterparty the other night. How about this one?"
QJ shook his head as her faced changed to match Anna. "Definitely not Anna."
"No? I thought perhaps you liked older women. This one then?"
"Again QJ shook his head."
"Oh I know, I did notice her glancing your way." Jezi's face changed again, this time QJ's eyes widened in surprise.
"No?" Jezi leaned forward, letting a soft hand trace down his stomach to his waist. "Oh, it appears we have a winner."
QJ kissed her soft lips while her hands easily removed his clothes. Their tongues tasting each other as she pushed her hips against him
She nodded to herself and reached between them, guiding him into her suddenly, causing them both to gasp in pleasure. She moved slowly, gyrating her hips while moaning softly. "Okay, slow it down." She leaned past him and removed the cap from the bottle, from somewhere she produced a tattoo iron and filled the reservoir carefully.
QJ leaned back in the chair, keeping a firm grip on her waist so she wouldn't slide off.
She put a hand on his chest and leaned forward, she started to move her hips slowly, in small circular motions. "Okay, I'm going to start."
The entire process took an hour, when she had finished the tattoo, she carefully sealed it with red wax. She nodded to him and started moving faster, quickly taking them both to the point of no return.
Afterward, she lay against him, breathing heavily. She had removed the mask and once again appeared as herself. Normally she would rush the customer out at this point, but instead, they talked easily without constraint. She slyly kissed him before getting up.
"Do you think it worked?" QJ buttoned his shirt, careful not to disturb the wax seal.
She wrapped the robe around her waist and tied it up. "Without a doubt, I've never seen the Gold Blood fuse so strongly."
QJ scratched his head, finally starting to feel a little embarrassed.
"No payment will be accepted of course, I only require your confidentiality." She tied her long hair in a bun while she talked, grabbing his hand she walked him to the door.
"Of course." He bent and kissed her lips, causing her to smile in surprise. "Goodnight Jezi."
"Night QJ."
Ringo clicked her polished nails on her desk while she watched her class. All three of the slingers in her group had made level four. Most of the rest had fallen in between two and three, not a bad afternoon of work. "Shall we take a look?" She activated the leaderboard and walked to one side while studying it.Top Guild Level: 1 Old Skool-Lvl 4.4 2 Green Ghost 3.4 3 One Problem 3.3Class Leaderboard: Range Rider: Sexy Dexy-Lvl 5, Gunfighter: Oldman Crane-Lvl 5, Brave: Laffy Taffy-Lvl-4, Tracker: Carlotti Hottie-Lvl 5, Shaman: Dead Mimi-Lvl 4, Field Medic: Suga Pie-Lvl 4, Wrangler: Highwater-Lvl 3, Scout: Cactus Flower Lvl 4, Commanchero: Boomer-Lvl 4, Cavalry: Iron Lou-Lvl 4, Raider: Devil Woman-Lvl 4, Gambler: Pinnacle-Lvl 4.Top Five Ranking: 1 Oldman Crane, 2 Sexy Dexy 3 Carlotti Hottie 4 Sunny Meadow 5 Lotte"These are the leaderboards after the first few hours. As you can see we are doing well, the third years haven't formed a guild, but I can tell you that their average level is 3.8." Ringo smiled at all the frowning faces.QJ shook his head. "Don't let it bother you guys, of course; they are ahead of us. They have the experience of already leveling up a character." QJ reached over and high-fived Lotte. "We should be cheering on Lotte who cracked the top five!"Lotte blushed as her classmates cheered and clapped. "Thanks."Ringo closed the leaderboard and walked down the center aisle. "Who can tell me what the forty percent rule is?"A dark girl with long black hair raised her hand. Her name was Breeze; she was one of the few in class that made it to level four. "It's the expert rule. A real-life sharpshooter will be forty percent more effective in GnG than someone who has never fired a weapon. Even if they are the same level."Ringo nodded, "not just shooting, but anything else also. In GnG, real-life talent trumps gaming talent, when all other things are equal."A tap at the door drew their attention, Freya opened the door and leaned in. She was wearing GnG gear. "Grab some lunch?"Ringo smiled at her friend, "yep, in a bit." She walked back to the front of the classroom, "can anyone tell me what GnG class our visitor is just by looking?"QJ was the only one with his hand raised. "Field Medic."Freya nodded, "how did you guess?""Your pistol is on your right side, but you aren't right-handed. You must keep your field bandages on your left." QJ glanced at his teacher for confirmation.Freya stepped into the classroom, "are you sure I'm left-handed?"QJ nodded. "Pretty sure Miss Freya."The third-year teacher smiled at him. "I'm Dessi, level 4 Field Medic. From now on, please refer to me by my GnG name."QJ stole a glance at Lotte, "Songbird for lunch?"Lotte shook her head, "can't today.""Okay class, after lunch report for your extra duties. Applied Engineering is right after that; don't be late." Ringo walked to the door and held it open. "Have a good lunch."***********For once there wasn't a line outside of the Songbird, as he got closer he noticed the 'closed' sign had been turned on. He stepped inside, the slight scent of cooked meat and beer lingered in the air."Over here QJ." Tal waved at him; she was sitting with Remmy, Anna, and Jezebelle."Hey, mom." He smiled at the group; they were waiting for him. Remmy had a big box of tools sitting in front of her."I'll take your armor, give Remmy the weapons." Tal stood up and moved to a nearby table.QJ couldn't stop from smiling, "now we are talking!" He quickly stacked his armor and weapons on the table."Woah, what crap." Remmy whistled as she picked up the shotgun. "Going to cut this down, it's way too long, want a back holster for it?"QJ nodded, "whatever you think Remmy.""Not much to do with this armor, I can enhance it a bit." Tal grabbed the chest piece and started examining it.Anna grabbed his hand and pulled him away from the two engineers. "Hit me QJ, what can I look up for you?""Oh okay. Find anything you can about Dixie Jones and the quest 'Something Special.' Also, any good hunting area's around Laredo."Anna nodded and immediately opened her hud.QJ felt Jezebelle's eyes on him, "can you identify equipment?""Yes, for a price." Her shiny black hair hung down over one shoulder; intricate floral tattoos were visible on her bare arms. Her painted lips curved in a smile, "show me."QJ nodded, she always said that but never really asked for anything. He handed her the ring that dropped off the named Ant in the caves."Oh... you're giving me a ring? Very sudden." Her dark eyes flashed at him before she held the silver band up to her eye. "So nice... it's a Fade Ring."Fade RingDescription: Escape mostpeoples notice for a few seconds.QJ had never heard of a Fade Ring, but he did know that stealth items were non-existent in GnG. Only the Scout class possessed stealth ability. "It's like a low-level temporary Camouflage?"Jezebelle nodded, "super rare drop, these are never sold in the market place because everyone wants them." She handed the ring back to him."Thanks, Jezi" He slipped the ring on and noticed that she was still watching him.She glanced over at Tal who was busy working on his armor. "Come by the shop after school QJ," her voice was soft and sultry.QJ grinned and shook his head, that was way more trouble than he wanted.Jezi bit her lip, her dark eyes staring. "You don't want a tattoo that enhances stealth items?""You have something like that?" QJ knew that her work was highly sought after by every gamer in Exodus.She shook her head, "nothing yet, but I have got a few ideas that could work. If nothing else you'll end up with some nice ink."QJ glanced at his hud, "damn, I have to get back already."Jezi waved her slender hand, "I'll close early, so come by when you're done.""Thanks, Jezi." QJ walked over to Remmy's table and kissed the top of her head. "I saw Angel this morning."Remmy smiled at him, "you did? Was she being good?""Yep, very good. I have to go back to school now." QJ glanced at the Shotgun; it had already been taken apart."Okay QJ. I'll be done by the time school is over." Remmy pulled her goggles over her eyes and started taking his pistol apart."Gotta go Mom." QJ bent down and gave Tal a quick kiss on the cheek."Okay hun, love you." Tal barely looked up before continuing her work."Love you too." QJ exited the Songbird and made his way back towards the Exodus Academy.******Lotte peeked over the stall wall. "I should say thank you."QJ had a handful of straw in his hand and was rubbing down Scorch. "You standing on a hay bale or something?" She had moved her new horse into the stall next to Scorch. It was a sleek looking black filly, although a bit small it looked fast.She hadn't stopped talking since she put her in the stall. "Huh? What's that mean?"QJ kept a straight face, "just that you're short... ya know; half pint, shrimp boat, itty bitty."Lotte glared, but her hand covering a laugh ruined the effect. "Very funny." She tossed hay at him and then disappeared. "What should I name her?"QJ started scratching Scorch's ears, a practice that the big horse loved. "How about Viento?"The top of Lotte's head popped up over the stable wall again. "Viento? What's that mean?""It's Spanish for Wind." QJ finished up with Scorch and secured the Stable Gate. "Oh, and thank me for what?"Lotte met him in the front of the stalls, "Tal got my mom a job interview at the Fora Academy.""Really? That has nothing to do with me." QJ frowned when he noticed Maya and Nina walking toward them. "What department?""Applied Science I think." She chased after QJ who had started walking away.He smiled when he heard the department. "Naomi Gajendra's department, she's super smart."Nina's voice called out to them. "QJ! Wait up a sec!"The two freshmen turned to see the third years closing in on them. Lotte raised an eyebrow, "run?""Yep!" QJ sprinted for the Academy entrance, Lotte right on his heels. They heard the shouts of protest as they raced down the hallway and made it safely to their homeroom. They both entered the room laughing; no one had arrived yet."Very funny!" Maya arrived at the open doorway a moment later; they had chased them, Nina was shaking her fist at QJ.QJ laughed, "only teasing. What's up, guys?"Maya walked in and stood before QJ's desk, her pale face blushing. "I want you to watch my most recent attempt at 12 bells."QJ shrugged, he had watched it a few times when he had planned his attempt. "I've seen it already; you were close.""...." Maya."What could she do to improve smarty pants?" Nina crossed her arms, her pretty face scowling.QJ gave her a deadpan face. "Um... go faster."Maya bowed her head slightly, "please advise Quinn."QJ felt his face twitching; she had pulled out his first name. "On the last two turns, you controlled her too much."Maya nodded, "she was drifting wide."QJ shook his head, "she was accelerating."Nina slammed her hand down on QJ's desk, "is that sound advice QJ?""Trust your horse Maya, and she'll bring you home.""You two ladies lost?" Ringo walked in, her usually serious face had the remnants of a smile."Sorry Miss Chi, we were just getting advice from QJ.""Call me Ringo please." She watched them leave the room and then turned toward her students. "What did those two want?""Maya wants to squeeze out a few more seconds in her 12 bell run." QJ stared at the twin holsters his teacher was sporting, "Navy Colts? Are they a matched pair?"Ringo's face broke into a broad smile, "you are very observant QJ.""Sweet guns... if a bit heavy." QJ smiled innocently at her.Ringo had her thumbs looped in her belt. "Oh? Want to try me again QJ?"QJ shook his head, "my dad thought he'd come in and give you a try."Ringo's face turned red, her mouth opened and closed a few times. No one had to remind her that Quinn Riley was one of two people who had broken the coveted .09. "No fair..."QJ shrugged at her without sympathy, "you were bullying me."Her blue eyes stared at him. "Fine, we'll forget this.""Of course... I did win last." QJ felt he had to point it out.************Advanced Sawed-Off ShotgunDrum-FedSpecial Effect: Chance to Stun.+ 10 to StaminaBattle Rating 7.4Advanced Kevlar ArmorMedium ArmorInterwoven Kevlar fabricand Durasteel plates.+10 StrengthBattle Rating 7.2Extended Range PistolSix-inch Barrel ExtensionChamber Modified to acceptCarbine Rifle bullets. SpecialEffect: Increased Accuracy.+5 PerceptionBattle Rating 8"Are you kidding me? Now we are talking!" QJ hugged Tal and Remmy at the same time. Battle Rating BR for the starter kit was between 2 and 2.5. It was based on a scale from 1 to 12.Tal's blue eyes sparkled. "That gear was too crappy for my baby."Remmy nodded, "yep, too crappy for our baby."QJ laughed at the two engineers, "thank you.""Oh and try this on." Tal handed him two holster's, neither one of them had belts or straps.One was for the shotgun and the other for the pistol. "How do I put it on?""Your armor is slotted on both sides." Remmy grabbed the Shotgun holster and with a 'click' locked into place over his left shoulder.QJ slid the shotgun into place, the handle stuck up over his left shoulder. "Wow, that is really slick."Tal took the other holster and locked it into place on the right side. "We collaborated on the design, it worked out nicely."QJ holstered the pistol over his right shoulder, then pulled it out smoothly. "Yeah, that's going to work well. Easy to carry and won't get in my way."Remmy clapped her hands, her face beaming. "As you get new gear, we'll keep at it!""You're spoiling me, but I'll accept it." QJ put everything back in his inventory."Oh hey, Gella Hard G was looking for you." Tal had put her tools away and was getting ready to leave."She was?" Gella was actually Ella Riley. Toddler QJ couldn't say Grandma Ella, eventually, he settled on Gella. It had stuck through his childhood QJ had grown up with a virtual grandma who couldn't hug or hold him. When QJ turned five and was finally allowed to use a virtual headset, he had latched onto her throughout the next day, refusing to let go. The incident had caused the two to forge a special bond."Yep, her and Gus had to attend a virtual conference in Geneva, she said she'd catch up with you later." Tal kissed her son on the cheek and then hugged Remmy. "Your father is taking me out to dinner, so there's money on the island for take-out or pizza.""Thanks mom, have fun." He waved as the two engineers walked out of the Songbird.A few minutes later QJ walked into 'The Painted Lady Tattoo Parlor,' the sweet smell of incense tickled his nostrils. "That smells like Oatmeal Raisin Cookies."A laugh from the back room caused him to turn. "It takes the characteristic of whatever your favorite scent is." Jezi entered through the beaded doorway. She was wearing a red silk robe that hung down to her knees, it was loosely tied."Getting ready for bed?" She was barefoot, her shiny black hair hung down to her waist."Have a seat, gotta discuss our options." Jezi motioned for him to sit in the customer's chair, her expression was strictly professional.QJ took a seat, letting his body sink into the comfortable chair. "Wow, I need one of these."She held up two bottles, one in each hand. Both bottles contained liquid, one was black and the other gold. "These are both dragon blood. The gold blood is much more effective than the black, although the black is very good too.""Which one are you going to use?" QJ had to concentrate to maintain eye contact, the top of her robe had slid open a bit when she held up the bottles."That all depends on you. The Gold blood has to fuse directly with your blood. To be effective you have to be extremely agitated." She gave QJ a friendly smile and sat the black bottle down."Define agitated.""Take your pick, anger, despair, rage, passion." She flipped a switch on the wall, the lights of the room dimmed, but the one over the chair brightened substantially. QJ Could feel the heat of the lamp on his face. "I've used the whip on customers, hot candle wax, open flames. It doesn't have to hurt though, I have many other methods."Jezi gave a discontented sigh when QJ stood up and walked to the door. "You don't have to leave, we can just forget it and use the black bottle."QJ locked the door and resumed his place in the customer's chair. "Show me what you have in mind."Jezi pulled out a sketch of a Draconian thief when she shifted the drawing, the Draconian faded away. "It's something I've never attempted. The better the fusion process...""The better the result?" QJ stared at the sketch, the eyes seemed to follow him.She nodded and slipped off her robe. "Your a young healthy male, so let's try the basics." Her skin was soft and smooth, brushing against him as she straddled his legs. The reptilian tattoos on her chest squirmed, her hard nipples pushed against his chest. She bent her head and touched her lips to his. "Hmm. we have to do a little better, bear with me a bit.She reached behind him and pulled a small box from the counter. "You had to have heard the story about this."Mask of FortuneDisguise: UniqueThe wearer can change theirappearance and voice.She placed it on her face, it blended in perfectly without changing anything. "Let's start, shall we? There were quite a few people at your afterparty the other night. How about this one?"QJ shook his head as her faced changed to match Anna. "Definitely not Anna.""No? I thought perhaps you liked older women. This one then?""Again QJ shook his head.""Oh I know, I did notice her glancing your way." Jezi's face changed again, this time QJ's eyes widened in surprise."No?" Jezi leaned forward, letting a soft hand trace down his stomach to his waist. "Oh, it appears we have a winner."QJ kissed her soft lips while her hands easily removed his clothes. Their tongues tasting each other as she pushed her hips against himShe nodded to herself and reached between them, guiding him into her suddenly, causing them both to gasp in pleasure. She moved slowly, gyrating her hips while moaning softly. "Okay, slow it down." She leaned past him and removed the cap from the bottle, from somewhere she produced a tattoo iron and filled the reservoir carefully.QJ leaned back in the chair, keeping a firm grip on her waist so she wouldn't slide off.She put a hand on his chest and leaned forward, she started to move her hips slowly, in small circular motions. "Okay, I'm going to start."The entire process took an hour, when she had finished the tattoo, she carefully sealed it with red wax. She nodded to him and started moving faster, quickly taking them both to the point of no return.Afterward, she lay against him, breathing heavily. She had removed the mask and once again appeared as herself. Normally she would rush the customer out at this point, but instead, they talked easily without constraint. She slyly kissed him before getting up."Do you think it worked?" QJ buttoned his shirt, careful not to disturb the wax seal.She wrapped the robe around her waist and tied it up. "Without a doubt, I've never seen the Gold Blood fuse so strongly."QJ scratched his head, finally starting to feel a little embarrassed."No payment will be accepted of course, I only require your confidentiality." She tied her long hair in a bun while she talked, grabbing his hand she walked him to the door."Of course." He bent and kissed her lips, causing her to smile in surprise. "Goodnight Jezi.""Night QJ."
