Shadowrun
Shadowrun Play => Play-by-Post => Topic started by: Ravensoracle on <10-24-16/2015:10>
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Oct 24 2076
Seattle, UCAS- Touristville
The three of you have been sent here to meet up with your handler. An orc by the name of Lt' Murphy. You've all met her before in your recruitment interview for the undercover job. Knight Errant Detectives that are to play the role of Shadowrunners. The job is simple. Build up a reputation so that you can gain intel on the major players of the Underworld and Corporate communities. Let the beat cops and other detectives go after the smaller crimes. Your job is to build the cases needed to take out the whales.
It's cold and raining while the three of you wait on the street corner. The coffee, actual coffee, helps a little to take the chill out of the air. The food truck was blocking most of the wind. Its awning giving a little reprieve from the drizzle that was soaking down into your bones.
It's about a 20 minute wait in these miserable conditions until a non-descript Americar sedan pulls up on the corner. Lt' Murphy waves the three of you into the car and drives away. It's mostly quiet as she drives a couple blocks away to an old parking structure and pulls in to one of the lower levels.
It is only then that she turns to face you each in turn.
"Alright, listen up. I've gotten a tip on some very disturbing news. Of course the tip needs to be confirmed. And since I just got a new team of Runners at my beck and call.... She actually smiles around her tusks. "The three of you are going to confirm it for me. The Halloweeners are supposedly planning something big. Something to put Devil's Night back on the map so I hear. Something about watching the city burn. If you can confirm it then we can decide what to do from there. Either we'll get KE to call in a raid or If we're lucky the three of you can deal with it and build up a little street cred in the proccess. I'm afraid that's all I've got for information. The rest you guys are going to have to find out on your own. Any questions? "
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Twitch was sipping his coffee, getting to know his teammates a bit better. There was the man with the Latino name, which he knew had a reputation for almost being an untouchable. And then there was the man that had just been transferred from somewhere he didn't know, but was betrayed in his accent. Wherever he came from, he must have been efficient and competent to be put on this undercover team right off the bat.
Inside the car, Andrew, sitting in the back, listened carefully to what Lt. Murphy was telling them. It seemed like a pretty straightforward assignment. First, they had to build up their street rep so they could get invited to the meets. What better way than to go after some Halloweeners? And on top of that, they could get rid of some serious gangbangers. Everything just seemed to fall into place for him, and he was glad this assignment gave him the opportunity to work directly at making Seattle a bit more manageable for the populace.
"Are you expecting a report on this or do we have carte-blanche?" was his only question.
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Max held his cup of coffee like a drowning man to a piece of driftwood. His expensive suit was reasonably save through his even more expensive coat, but his bald head was only inadequately covered by his Trilby. The wet wind collected moisture at his neck and steadily soaked down his back.To call his mood morose would have been generous. 'Just one more step to the goal' he reminded himself.
Although he had been in Seattle for three months now, he still felt like an alien here. And now this morning he had told his wife that he probably wouldn't be home for a few days. She had acknowledged it insofar as she had turned away from him, staring at the wall. He had wanted to say "I love you", but at that moment he hadn't felt it, hadn't felt anything really.
And now he was here in this miserable weather waiting for the start of the most dangerous part of his career so far, standing in the rain with two guys he didn't know but was supposed to build a reliable unit. He gave them points for not engaging him in the typical American small talk - a skill he neither had nor wanted to master.
He took care to take of his hat and shake off the accumulated droplets before he entered the vehicle. Silently he listened to his superiors briefing, and his colleagues question, before adding in his low baritone: "Is there currently any rival gang on the lookout to harm the Halloweeners? Getting hired by someone else would improve our cover - not to mention would allow us to build up our funds for this operation."
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Abran turns up the collar on his Globetrotter jacket, which is set to a flat plascrete gray color, against the slight wind and chill of the mid-morning drizzle, and breathes in the rich aroma of real coffee. It wasn't often that the department would spring for such luxuries, much less waste them on the likes of him, but he was told that this undercover assignment would come with certain perks. The real advantage, though, the long term goal would only be felt once this whole mess was behind him. Then it would be obvious that he was a loyal cop, above corruption and dedicated to his job. Or, at least, enough above corruption to be trusted; undercover work came with enough gray areas that he couldn't be the white knight boy scout either. Yes, in a lot of ways this was the perfect gig. One he'd fought hard for.
Of course, if he made a mess of it, or even worse allowed one of the others on his team to make a mess of it, this would be the final nail in the proverbial coffin. Meter maid from here on out, doing the kind of job a drone could do but that the department still kept around for cops too inept for duty, or as a punishment, but someone who they wouldn't want to let go because of what they might be able to tell a competitor.
Taking a sip, Abran studies the other two members of his team, who he recognizes from some trid stills they'd all been sent by the Lieutenant. He's happy to see Weber on the team, another untouchable like himself, though for different reasons. While Officer Tenario's loyalties have been questioned from day one on the force for the actions his father took nearly ten years ago, Officer Weber is seen as too straight-laced, too by-the-book, in truth too honest, which is more of a failing than most would like to admit in the sixth world. No doubt while the young Aztlaner is pleased to be working with the guy who was promoted to detective after his work on the Blankview case, Abran is doubtful that he'll be returning those warm and fuzzies.
The other one is an unknown. His clipped speech betrayed a German accent when he had ordered his coffee, and Abran can't recall ever seeing him around at any KE functions, not that he tended to stick around at those very long himself before he started having a little pity party about standing by himself over at the bar. He doesn't know what to think. Transfer, maybe? Or maybe this guy's Firewatch brought on board for his tactical acumen. That suit doesn't come cheap, so that makes sense. That'd be nova. I've never worked with Firewatch before.
#
Lieutenant Murphy outlines their mission, and Max gives words to Abran's concerns: "Is there currently any rival gang on the lookout to harm the Halloweeners? Getting hired by someone else would improve our cover - not to mention would allow us to build up our funds for this operation."
Exactly. Doing a bunch of good out on the streets isn't likely to win them any friends, not unless someone's pockets are going to be lined by the do-gooding.
"So, who's running this operation?" Abran asks, always one for chain of command, and because it might confirm his suspicions about Max. "I know we're reporting to you, LT, but who's making the calls on the ground?"
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Lt. Murphy gives the rookie one of her 'Are you Serious' looks. "You're still a cop first and foremost." She turns to the other two. "Detective Minier has seniority, but I expect you all to contribute. As to getting hired for this, you may want to talk to your contacts... Maybe Jerry Mack can find someone interested."
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Twitch slunk back into the backseat. "Of course" mumbled the man, flustered.
Although he didn't know Detective Minier, he had a suspicion he would be the ranking officer. After all, it was a logical process of elimination. Weber simply acknowledged what the lieutenant told them with a simple "Alright." He didn't dare ask another question and embarrass himself any further.
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"I understand. I'll make sure the paperwork is in order afterwards." Max turned to his new colleagues: "I'll take point on this, but I'll also have to rely on you and your expertise. As you might have noticed I'm not originally from Seattle. And although I've made progress in getting to know the city, I don't have the necessary street knowledge about gangs and affiliations around here.
I have a few contacts I can ask about a contract against the Helloweeners, but that might get to the wrong ears. So if you know anything, don't hesitate to tell me.
And since we'll be mixing with the criminal element around here, from now on I'd ask you to use my call sign "Gladius" or if you want to be more informal "MnM" will do.
As per instructions, I've purchased a secure base in the Barrens. It's large enough for all of us although the neighborhood is not that friendly. But since we can't send in expenses for this, we'll have to procure the rent through our cover jobs. So please take this serious."
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"Weber, but my handle is Twitch" said the human, extending his hand out. The spasms caused by his augmentations were evident, as his hand lay waiting to be shook. After a short pause, he said "and this is where the nickname comes from" with a half laugh.
"Yeah, I'll help you with what I can. I was in Vice before this assignment, so anything to do with drugs or BTL, just ask away."
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Abran waits until Lt. Murphy has dismissed them, and left them to their own devices in the warehouse. She gives the obligatory "Good luck," with a round of handshaking before she's off in the Americar, leaving the trio to a bit of small talk, introductions, and the sound of rain, amplified by the high ceilings.
"I'm Abran Tenario," he says, taking Twitch's extended hand. "Guess I'll need a handle. Have to think on that one.
"Anyway," he says, turning to his senior officer, "I may have a lead or two for us. I've been working a couple leads on the Halloweeners here lately on account of some decomps I was working before I got pulled on this assignment. There've been some major shakeups on the leadership front, lots of Ragers -- that's what they call their lieutenants -- been getting retired early and replaced by new blood. Word is, they got a new boss, and he's cleaning house in preparation for a big move.
"This can't have escaped the attentions of the Ancients either, who they've been beefing over turf with for awhile now. If we want to go the runner angle, maybe we can see about trying to link up with them? A little recon, build up some intel, and maybe we go see the Ancients like we got a ready-made trap to spring, sell it to 'em for a middling piece, or take care of it ourselves for a larger chunk, scan?
"Oh yeah," he says, snapping his fingers, "I got a contact out in Puyallup, says there's been some work going on grabbing oil tankers. A few of those could go a long way for a city ablaze, and all that."
Abran tries to keep his face cool and neutral, but inside he's dancing. New guy in leadership, possibly Firewatch, and he probably doesn't even know about Abran's family's history. Ah, who am I kidding. Probably the first thing listed in my personnel file.
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Max looked Weber in the eye while shaking his hand - an uncomfortable, piercing stare. Finally the German nodded.
[spoiler]
Assensing Twitch Assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/449859): 7d6t5 1
Assensing Abe Assensing (http://orokos.com/roll/449861): 5d6t5 1 (Retry)
[/spoiler]
When Abran had spoken, Max stared at him also for a long second before saying: "Good. Glad to have you aboard. And until you come up with something better, I'll call you Mercury.
To the case: Our priority is to find out what the Halloweeners have planed and what we can do to stop them without compromising our cover.
The stolen tankers sound like a good lead. The next step is finding out where this leader has been holed up. So call your contacts on this.
Meanwhile I'll ask a certain elvish barkeeper if he knows who on the Ancients would be interested in having the new ganger boss taken care off.
I assume you all are mobile - and from the dead bugs on both your lapels I gather you are driving motorcycles like me. Once you are done, we meet up at Casa Vindicatión - that's the safe house in the Barrens. When we have the address I'll do a little astral recon.
Any questions, requests or suggestions?"
When they were done, Max called Sam Whats the pup owner he had met on his first evening in town and since then had become a regular source for him:
<<Hello Sam, do you know someone up in the Ancients hierarchy who is looking for hired muscle at the moment? I'm looking for a sponsor.>>
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[spoiler]Max can see that Weber is in full health, anxious but otherwise excited, and completely mundane.[/spoiler]
"If you want, I'll get in touch with Jerry Mack and see what he has to say" said Twitch, taking out his cheap commlink and calling the informant.
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<<@Max, I can only give you a name. You'll have to cold call him though. The guy and I had a falling out a few years ago. SO KEEP ME OUT OF IT. Guy goes by the name of Skids. Hangs out at a small bar by the name of Shooters. Address is included.>>
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"Hey Five-0 man, you hear a snort come over the comm. What can I do ya' for?" Jerry Mack's answers the phone in his normal flashy way.
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<Hey Jerry, what do you know about the Halloweeners? And keep your answers relevant to within the last month or so. Consequently, do you know anyone that has a beef against them, or is looking to hire people to move on the Halloweeners?>
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<<Thanks Sam. I'll do that.>>
Max archived the Ancient contact for the moment and called Desk Sergeant Jack Eltor: <<Good morning Seargent. I need all information we have on an Ancient lieutenant called "Skids", known hangout is a bar called Shooters. And please be discreet about the search. I'm heading there now and will need all the information I can get.>>
To his fellow officers he said: "Alright, I have my first lead. An Ancient Lieutentant called Skids, hangs out at Shooters. Do you guys want to come with me, or do you have your own leads to follow already? I could use someone who is a bit more versed in negotiation than me."
Max was aware, that he now was heading into dangerous territory. Consequently he called on his mental powers, trying to create a powerful mind construct. First thing he did was pop a small pill, to lessen the stress of splitting his attention. Once he noticed the calming effect, he started by enhancing his consciousness.
[spoiler]
Taking Psyche +1 INT +1 LOG
CastingIncrease Intuition F6 (http://orokos.com/roll/450142): 13d6t5 7
New Intuition is 10
Summoning F7 Spirit of Man (Spirit Whisperer turns that into 8)
Summoning F7(8) Spirit of Men (http://orokos.com/roll/450143): 14d6t5 3
Spirit Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/450144): 8d6t5 2
Resist Drain (http://orokos.com/roll/450145): 15d6t5 7
Only one service. Dismissing, trying again
Summon Spirit of Men F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/450146): 14d6t5 6
Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/450147): 8d6t5 3
3 Services
Drain Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/450148): 15d6t5 4
taking to points of Stun
Spirit gets Powers:
Innate Spell: Increase Reflexes
Innate Spell: Combat Sense
Channeling Spirit: +4 to STR, REA, AGI, BOD, Ignore 8 points of Wound Mods
2 Services to cast Spells on Max:
Increase Reflexes F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/450149): 16d6t5 8
That's +8+4d6 to Ini
Drain Resist:Resist Drain (http://orokos.com/roll/450150): 16d6t5 9
Spirit takes no drain
Combat Sense R6 (http://orokos.com/roll/450151): 14d6t5 5
+5 to Defense
Resist Drain (http://orokos.com/roll/450152): 16d6t5 9
No Drain
[/spoiler]
Max violently shook for a moment, before straightening up again. His movements were a lot more fluid and graceful than before and his piercing gaze was visible even through his expensive rimless glasses.
"You can have the car, I'll take my bike once it arrives."
There was a strange harmony to his speech now, almost as if he was talking in harmony with himself.
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"Mercury, eh? Yeah, I guess that'll do," Abran says. Wow, I never had somebody else give me a nickname before. Wiz.
"Alright, I have my first lead. An Ancient Lieutentant called Skids, hangs out at Shooters. Do you guys want to come with me, or do you have your own leads to follow already? I could use someone who is a bit more versed in negotiation than me."
"Yeah, I'll ride with," he says standing to stretch his legs. "I mean, I'm no Damien Knight, but my Asymmetrical Mediation scores were always pretty high. Say, we got a working budge on this? I mean, I got some contacts I can tap, but ain't none of this drek come free, ya know?"
As requested, Abran, now Mercury, sends off a couple comms as they suit up to roll out.
<<@Liga [Abran] Hoi, omae. Keep your ear on the street for anything you might here on the Halloweeners for me, would ya? Ditto for any Ancients you may see coming around. If it's actionable, there's some cred in it for you.>>
<<@Ed [Abran] What's up, slotface? I'm looking for some info. If your dirty hoop comes across any data on some of those oil tankers that came up missing here lately, or you hear of anybody doing dirt with explosives will you let a fragger know? BTW, you working tonight? Something tells me I'm gonna need a drink later on. Don't get none on ya>>
<<@Bannockburn [Mercury] Look at that, the green horn's already got himself hooked up with a crew, and got himself a handle to match. Appreciate your work on that thing last time. It's a real beaut. Anyway, I've been hearing some rumors there are some chummers out looking for petrol. Large quantities. I may have a line on something they'd be interested in. You know the players?>>
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<Hey Jerry, what do you know about the Halloweeners? And keep your answers relevant to within the last month or so. Consequently, do you know anyone that has a beef against them, or is looking to hire people to move on the Halloweeners?>
<<Hey man, those 'Weeners are frakin crazy. I don't do business with the clowns. I know there's been some crap happening at the top. That's about it. If you're wantin to get on their bad side I can look into it. But it's gonna cost ya. Tell Murphy it's my standard fee.>>
Max archived the Ancient contact for the moment and called Desk Sergeant Jack Eltor: <<Good morning Seargent. I need all information we have on an Ancient lieutenant called "Skids", known hangout is a bar called Shooters. And please be discreet about the search. I'm heading there now and will need all the information I can get.>>
<< File from Vice on all we have on Skids attached>>
<<@Liga [Abran] Hoi, omae. Keep your ear on the street for anything you might here on the Halloweeners for me, would ya? Ditto for any Ancients you may see coming around. If it's actionable, there's some cred in it for you.>>
<<My ears wherever you want me to put it, Honey. I'll let ya know if I hear anything.>>
<<@Ed [Abran] What's up, slotface? I'm looking for some info. If your dirty hoop comes across any data on some of those oil tankers that came up missing here lately, or you hear of anybody doing dirt with explosives will you let a fragger know? BTW, you working tonight? Something tells me I'm gonna need a drink later on. Don't get none on ya>>
<<What the hell case you working that you'd want to know about that? Probably just some trucking corp looking to save on their fuel bill. I have heard that a couple of warehouses were hit that had explosives stored. Figured it was some crazy runner shit ya dig. >>
<<@Bannockburn [Mercury] Look at that, the green horn's already got himself hooked up with a crew, and got himself a handle to match. Appreciate your work on that thing last time. It's a real beaut. Anyway, I've been hearing some rumors there are some chummers out looking for petrol. Large quantities. I may have a line on something they'd be interested in. You know the players?>>[/color]
<<@ Mercury You part of those rigs getting hit? I know a couple of people that may be interested in them.>>
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<<My ears wherever you want me to put it, Honey. I'll let ya know if I hear anything.>>
<<@Liga [Abran] ur a dream. Thanks, omae>>
<<What the hell case you working that you'd want to know about that? Probably just some trucking corp looking to save on their fuel bill. I have heard that a couple of warehouses were hit that had explosives stored. Figured it was some crazy runner shit ya dig. >>
<<@Ed [Abran] You happen to remember what warehouses, or what slitch was flapping his hoop? It'd be a huge help, chummer>>
<<@ Mercury You part of those rigs getting hit? I know a couple of people that may be interested in them.>>
<<@Bannockburn [Mercury] What me? Nah, I'm on the straight and narrow. Just sometimes you find things, wiz? I may be interested in getting a commcode or having some intros made if things pan out on this end. You get your cut, everybody gets paid?>>
Abran turns to Max as the magician mounts his bike, "Hey, not sure how you want to play this, sir, but uh, if we wanna try another route too, I got a contact who knows some hoops looking for more fuel tankers. If we make a delivery we could track whoever picks it up. Maybe they take us to this mystery man."
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Max replied: "We'll keep that as a back up. We'd have to steel a tanker for real and I'm not sure if operations will o.k. that kind of criminal action - or they'd have to organize one for us, which would probably be even more problematic from their point of view. We are walking a fine line here in regard to the law.
But if you have an idea where we can more or less legally obtain such a vehicle - for example one that was already stolen - I'm certainly up for it.
By the way I got the file on Skidd: Suspected to have killed two Helloweeners and displayed their corpses at one of their bars. So be ready for potential unpleasantness."
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"Permission to speak freely, sir," Abran says.
Max shakes his head a little and rolls his fingers in quick circles toward his subordinate, the universal symbol for "get on with it."
"Well, it's just that I was under the impression that we were posing as shadowrunners, and that as part of our cover we would partaking in shadowruns, given license for assault, battery, arson, grand larceny, bribery, falsifying corporate documents, etc. Besides, hitting somebody like Renraku or Evo is only going to help Ares' bottom line. Anyway, just think about it, should things not pan out with this Skids hoop.
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<I'll let you know if I need that intro or not.> answered Twitch before hanging up. Turning to the rest of the team, he said "Jerry's got nothing but says for the proper fees he could dig and get us a way to work against the Halloweeners." After listening to what Abran and Max said, Weber replied "Yeah, I remember seeing Skidd's file. I think homicide is investigating him for those murders though, but I can't tell you who's got lead on that one. I'll take the car and follow you if you need backup."
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"Permission to speak freely, sir," Abran says.
Max shakes his head a little and rolls his fingers in quick circles toward his subordinate, the universal symbol for "get on with it."
"Well, it's just that I was under the impression that we were posing as shadowrunners, and that as part of our cover we would partaking in shadowruns, given license for assault, battery, arson, grand larceny, bribery, falsifying corporate documents, etc. Besides, hitting somebody like Renraku or Evo is only going to help Ares' bottom line. Anyway, just think about it, should things not pan out with this Skids hoop.
Max shook his head: "No need to say sir. Primus inter pares - first among equals. Just MnM or Gladius.
As I said, this is a fine line with lots of grey area. We certainly have to commit some crimes - but we have to be able to prove that there was no other way to further the case. Shadow runners are deniable assets, that's why the corps like to use them for this kind of stuff. But we will have to answer for all we have done after this assignment is over. That also means we have to be judicious in our use of lethal force - or at least in how we write our reports. But we need to keep plausible deniability for us and for our boss.
And as I said, we'll keep that as a back up option."
Max took out a helmet from the bike's compartment and put it on. "Alright than, let's check out Shooters."
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<<@Ed [Abran] You happen to remember what warehouses, or what slitch was flapping his hoop? It'd be a huge help, chummer>>
<<All I know is that it was a couple of private contractors. Not exactly anyone that would reporting the thefts to the police.>>
<<@Bannockburn [Mercury] What me? Nah, I'm on the straight and narrow. Just sometimes you find things, wiz? I may be interested in getting a commcode or having some intros made if things pan out on this end. You get your cut, everybody gets paid?>>
<<I got a couple of trucking companies I know of always looking for help with the bottom line. You get one of those fuel trucks you let me know.>>
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The trip deeper into the Barrens is somewhat disconcerting. you guys are going lightly armed into what normally would be a major operation for a Knight Errant Department. Surprisingly though there is very little in the way of barriers for you to get in. You do come across a roadblock and after parting with a measly 100 Nuyen you are through without a problem, Once you reach a location near the bar you know you are deep in a Z-zone. Most of the buildings are decrepit. What counts as normal city infrastructure is practically non-existent. The bar itself is one of the few buildings actually standing in more or less complete shape. A large neon sign glows above the door with the cursive spelling of Shooters.
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Max took off the helmet and secured it again with his bike - hopefully both would still be here after the meet.
He nodded towards his two colleagues to assemble before going in. <<Remember, we are without backup and far away from any patrols. If there is trouble we retreat.
Let's do this.>>
Entering the bar, Max loosened this coat for easy access to his gun. He didn't bother to take of his hat while he quickly took stock of his surroundings, looking for Skid.
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Relieved that the team had made it to the bar without any major setbacks (the fee was nothing to write home about), Weber listened to the ranking officer and acknowledged his instructions. He walked in with the others, ready for whatever was about to happen, on the lookout for Skidds.
[spoiler]I assumed the inside of the bar had partial lighting, but if it's dim, just remove the last 2 rolls. Perception 4 + Visual 2 + Intuition 4 + Hawkeye 1 + Vision Enhancement 3 + Actively Looking 3 - Partial Light 1 (http://orokos.com/roll/451594): 16d6t5 1 Wow... at least it wasn't a glitch.[/spoiler]
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When his superior officer outlined his thinking on the oil rigs, Abran nodded thoughtfully. "Roger that, si-- eh Max."
Since they were heading deeper into the Barrens, Mercury donned his ballistic mask for the drive over. Only a few blocks out, and he gets a comm from Bannockburn, practically burning the strong-armed robbery angle.
<<@ Team [Mercury] How are we playing this when we get in there? We some hired guns that'll take care of his problems for him?>>
Max takes care of the roadblock, and the gangers along with it with a simple transfer of cred, and after another ten or so they pull up under the neon glow of Shooters. Abran is the last to enter, giving the street a cursory look and taking off his ballistic mask, which he deposits in the large pocket of his armored jacket, but it takes hardly any time at all for his eyes to adjust to the dim lighting of the bar. He takes it all in with a deep breath, and then approaches the bartender, ordering "Whatever synth beer ya got on tap."
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<<Hired guns is probably the best approach. If he pushes for why we came to him, we answer truthfully that going against the Halloweeners is a way for us to make ourselves a name in this city. And remember if the talk goes south, we try to deescalate and leave.
Oh and just to be clear: From now on code names only.>>
Max slowly followed Abran to the bar, but didn't order anything yet.
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The bar is dark and full of smoke. It's patrons are made up of gangers and locals. Since this is a dangerous part of town everyone is packing. Some even carrying assault rifles and shotguns. It doesn't take much to recognize that their is a leader here. Skids is sitting in a corner booth in the back. A couple of of his underlings are sitting with him. None of them are touching the beers that have been setting their for a while. It appears they are all talking business because they are talking in hushed tones. No laughing, or cheerful faces.
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<<Alright, showtime it's the guy in the corner booth. Get your game face on.>>
[spoiler]Etiquette (http://orokos.com/roll/452660): 5d6t5 2 [5d6t5=1, 6, 5, 1, 4] [/spoiler]
Max squared his shoulders and strode confidently towards Skid's table.
"Greetings Gentlemen." He waited half a second until he was sure he had their attention. "Skid I presume. If I may introduce us: This is Twitch and Mercury and I'm called Gladius. We are here because we have a business proposal for you."
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Skid leans back and takes a moment to take you all in. "So you got my attention. What's your proposal?"
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"Word on the street is that the Halloweeners have been uppity lately. Reorganizing, professionalizing and a few other -izings more, even trying to take chunks of territory from other esteemed organizations like yours. All thanks to their new head honcho. Our proposal is to remove this honcho's head from the equation - for a small fee and all the information you have on this guy and his operation.
Now, I'm aware that you and your men are perfectly capable to take care of a bunch of Halloweeners by yourself, but I'm pretty certain you have better things to do - taking care of business for example."
Max nodded towards their untouched beverages: "As the bard says, the drink tastes all the sweeter with your enemies in a shallow grave..."
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Skids leans back into the booth and smiles, "So Gladius, you think you three are some drek hot runners. And you're looking for a payment to take care of our issues with the Halloweeners. What makes you think I'd pay you anything for something I can do myself?"
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"As I said: You can, but why would you want to? Gang wars seldom end in total victory - more often than not two gangs weaken one another to the point where a third party pounces and takes territory from both, because their numbers are to depleted to hold it anymore. This is doubly true if you fight against someone who knows what he is doing.
I won't lie: I'm selling a product here.
But you aren't asking your bike dealer why you should pay for a motorcycle if you are perfectly capable of walking where you want to go.
Same thing with us: We are a convenient way for you to not loose any of your men and guarantee that this doesn't start a gang war until you want the world to know that you were behind the decapitation strike.
We came to you first because you have the reputation of being a skilled business men who knows how to get a message across and haven't yet gotten any reprisals. Those crucifications were a nice touch by the way. That must have riled up quite a few of those Helloweeners."
Max let the last part sink in, counting on Skid to notice the subtle implication that their team could also turn to their competition.
-
Skids arches an eyebrow at the innuendo "I'll give you 10K a piece if the 3 of you can pull it off. You kill the leader of the Weeners without linking it back to me, then we'll talk abou thow else I can use you."
He turns his attention back to the others at the table. Obviously the conversation is over and your dismissed.
-
"Deal, but for that we need to know everything you have on this new Leader: His picture, name, or whatever else identifying material you have on him. If not than the name of someone who can give us the information.
We are capable of finding this info ourselves, but the more you give us to work with, the faster we can resolve this."
Max felt as a bit of tension fell of him. This could have gone a lot worse.
-
Twitch looked at all the gangers, but didn't stare anyone down. He wanted to let them know he wasn't intimidated, but at the same time didn't want to impose on them. He let out a small sigh of relief inside when the details were agreed, but otherwise seemed unfazed by the conversation.
-
SKid looks a bit annoyed at having dismissed you and you asking, "If you can find the info yourself then it proves I can use you for other jobs." He chuckles, but its not a pleasant sound. But I'll give you a bone. The orc goes by the name of Alverez."
-
"Consider it done." Max gave his colleagues the sign to withdraw.
Once they were outside and out of earshot he said: "That went better than expected. Now we have a name and race. As soon as one of our contacts can deliver us a picture and physical description, I can send out an astral construct to search for this man's location.
For the moment I'd suggest we relocate to our new base and get something to eat while we wait for info from our contacts. Unless of course you have a better idea."
-
Twitch let out a nervous chuckle once outside, glad that things had gone much better than he had thought. "We could check with the precinct to see if they have any info on an ork named Alverez," unsure if his suggestion was naive or not.
-
Mercury waits until they're outside to breathe out a sigh of relief. "Well, that could've gone worse, chip truth."
Twitch let out a nervous chuckle once outside, glad that things had gone much better than he had thought. "We could check with the precinct to see if they have any info on an ork named Alverez,"
"That sounds like a good call to me. I only have a few eyes on the Barrens, so any working bio we can get on this Alverez will be helpful."
He straddles his motorcycle, and dons his ballistic mask again firing up the engine. "While we're waiting for information to come in, maybe we should assemble our gear and get it inside the wire. I've got an SMG I'd rather not be trawling the streets with all open like."
-
"Wiz, I'll go get the car then" said Weber as he went to retrieve their lent vehicle. If they were going to go after the Halloweeners, he certainly wanted to stop by his place and get his stuff. Leaving the premises, the rookie was glad at himself that he had gotten something right.
-
"Good. Twich you take care of the report and information request. I'll see if my underworld contacts can point me in the right direction.
If we can't get any useful leads from that, we might have to fall back on that "steal a truck and sell it" plan.
But first we meet up at my place. Here's the address. I'll make sure your accommodations are ready.
By the way: Next time one of you will do the negotiations - that's definitely a job for a native speaker."
Max donned his helmet and mounted his bike as well. "See you later."
While driving towards the barren, Max called up his weapon dealer:
<<Hello Solchet. I might need some more grenades in the not so distant future, but until then I've got a question: Do you know an ork called Alverez? Seems to have reached the top of the Halloweener leadership recently. I'd need a way to get in contact with him or someone who knows him personally - even a good description would be nice. Attached you find a little something for your troubles. Best regards.>>
Next came his Anarchist contact:
<<Greetings Comrade Kurt, I'm looking to get into contact with a fellow non-conformist called Alverez. He is an ork who recently climbed to the top of the Halloweener gang. Do you know him or someone who knows him personally? I heard something about a concerted action against the capitalists using fuel trucks. Can you point me in the direction of that action? Thanks. Please find attached a little contribution to the cause. Best regards.>>
Each message had a 200 Nuyen transaction added to give it a bit of priority.
-
Twitch wrote a message to Lt. Murphy before driving along what could be called streets in the Barrens.
<Lieutenant, we have a name on the Halloweeners's leader: it would be an ork called Alverez. I have attached the proper forms to request any information other departments might have on him, so with your permission I will get this circulating unless you would rather keep this information private for now.>
Detective Weber then made his way to the address Max had given him, making sure there were no tails following him.
[spoiler]So perception to see if anyone's following. Perception 4 + Visual 2 + Intuition 4 + Hawkeye 1 + Vision Enhancers cement 3 + Actively Looking 3 (http://orokos.com/roll/454741): 17d6t5 6 No glitches. Successes capped at 5[/spoiler]
-
Not wanting to overload Bannockburn, and make his contact suspicious of what he might really be up to, Abran decides to try his blogger contact, and sends off a quick comm.
@Raymond Odessa [Abran] Hoi, omae. I'm wondering if you've heard any word of some recent happening with the Halloweeners, especially as it relates to an ork who goes by Alverez. Let a chummer know if you come up with anything, wiz?>>
Then he sends another comm off to Liga.
<<@Liga [Abran] I got a name to go with my previous request: Alverez. You see him, or hear anything, think of me first, will ya?>>
After that, Abran heads back to his drekky little apartment back in Renton, grabs his gear, and makes his way to the safehouse to reconvene with the team.
-
<<Hello Solchet. I might need some more grenades in the not so distant future, but until then I've got a question: Do you know an ork called Alverez? Seems to have reached the top of the Halloweener leadership recently. I'd need a way to get in contact with him or someone who knows him personally - even a good description would be nice. Attached you find a little something for your troubles. Best regards.>>
<<Don't know much about Alvarez but those damn Halloweeners stole my stock of detonators. I'll ask around about Alvarez. I'll give you 5 grand to piss in his cheerios though.>>
Next came his Anarchist contact:
<<Greetings Comrade Kurt, I'm looking to get into contact with a fellow non-conformist called Alverez. He is an ork who recently climbed to the top of the Halloweener gang. Do you know him or someone who knows him personally? I heard something about a concerted action against the capitalists using fuel trucks. Can you point me in the direction of that action? Thanks. Please find attached a little contribution to the cause. Best regards.>>
<<Alvarez is one sick puppy. definitely a man that is both cunning and crazy. He'll flay your body just for annoying him and he'll burn down your grandma's retirement home for the insurance payout. You sure you want to deal with him?>>
<Lieutenant, we have a name on the Halloweeners's leader: it would be an ork called Alverez. I have attached the proper forms to request any information other departments might have on him, so with your permission I will get this circulating unless you would rather keep this information private for now.>
<<Give me a day to sort out the files on Alvarez. I'l forward what I find to you.>>
@Raymond Odessa [Abran] Hoi, omae. I'm wondering if you've heard any word of some recent happening with the Halloweeners, especially as it relates to an ork who goes by Alverez. Let a chummer know if you come up with anything, wiz?>>
<<DOn't know much about Alverez but I know about the shakeup. Word is they got somebody bankrolling something big.>>
<<@Liga [Abran] I got a name to go with my previous request: Alverez. You see him, or hear anything, think of me first, will ya?>>
<<Alvarez is one man i won't get close to sorry chummer>>
-
Solchet
<<Don't know much about Alvarez but those damn Halloweeners stole my stock of detonators. I'll ask around about Alvarez. I'll give you 5 grand to piss in his cheerios though.>>
Kurt:
<<Alvarez is one sick puppy. definitely a man that is both cunning and crazy. He'll flay your body just for annoying him and he'll burn down your grandma's retirement home for the insurance payout. You sure you want to deal with him?>>
Max replied:
<<Thanks Solchet, I'll take you up on that one.>>
<<Positive Kurt, we all have to make sacrifices for the cause - and if he isn't worth the trouble, he'll just have to give way to someone who is. But don't worry, I'll handle this discreetly, so there won't be a connection back to you.>>
Finally, Max reached the building, formerly known as "Casa Vindicatión". It was in fact housed inside a retired railway tunnel that led to a cavernous space, in the previous century used for train maintenance. The Mafia Don it had belonged before, had installed a secure wall, looking like the tunnel interior. Only the new mag-lock on the ancient looking security door and roll up door betrayed the fact that there was more here than met the eye.
The tunnel was large enough to allow a car to drive inside, albeit with a bumpy ride.
Once through the doors there was a modern garage and a 12 room apartment with three bathrooms, four bedrooms, a communal living room, an office as well as a small workshop and a top of the line kitchen.
The downside was of course that the hidden house was inside the barrens, making entering and leaving the place a bit of a pain.
Max waited for the other two two arrive, so he could guide them inside. Once they were all assembled in the living room he said:
"My contacts know of Alverez, but so far haven't given me anything solid. What's you status?"
-
After a small detour to his place to get his equipment and weapons, Weber went to Max's place. Surprised at the layout, the rookie detective let out a whistle and said "Wow, wiz place you got. Now I understand why you wanted to make this the base of operations. I feel like we should call this the batcave or something."
Twitch then updated Max on what the lieutenant had told him. "I sent my request to Murphy but she said it would take a day to get everything together and send it to us." Turning to Abran, he asked "Got anything on your end?"
-
"Wow, wiz place you got. Now I understand why you wanted to make this the base of operations. I feel like we should call this the batcave or something."
"The what cave?" Abran asks, no less impressed but confused about the reference.
"I don't have anything solid or workable. Not even a trid still at this point. One of my contacts is well aware of who he is, though, and is pretty loathe to get involved. If we can throw some cred her way, I bet we might be able to get a ping out of her is she sees him. Just getting in the bar, or whatever as him, could go a long way for intelligence gathering. Whaddya think, Max?"
He drops his bag in the common area and looks around with a low whistle. "Nice digs. I had no idea the department would spring for something so big."
When Max corrects him that their intrepid leader had secured the place himself, Abran gave a knowing nod. That settles it. This guy's Firewatch for sure. You're bound to have suction to get a place like this when you're coming from out of town.
-
Max shook his head: "As I said, this used to be the hideout of a Mafia Don. It worked well until he decided he needed female companionship more than a secure door between him and the outside. It wasn't exactly on the market afterwards as he and his trusted lieutenants were all carved up by stripper ninja assassins. One of my contacts told me about this place as he was the one who installed the doors. Only Murphy know's about the place. Most of the upkeep goes into hiding the fact that this place exists while also keeping the lights on.
If we want to keep this place we'll have to earn a real shadow wage before to long, or it's back to a coffin motel.
I've taken the master bedroom and set up my meditation circle, other than that you are free to take whichever room you want.
As for your idea: Yeah, hanging out at Halloweener hotspots is not something to be done lightly, but probably a good way to find someone who knows how to find Alverez. Where is this bar you are talking about?"
-
"No known hoop holes, just a contact that knows what he looks like. I say we wait to see what the department can get us, but if we don't even have a pic we can maybe tap her to let us know when he's making the rounds. Then. We go and put glasses on the fragger"
-
"Alright. In that case I'd say we take a few hours of R&R to give our contacts time to get back to us, maybe search the matrix a bit and then if it doesn't bring any results go out this evening to visit some watering holes to get the info the hard way.
I'll be in my room if you need anything."
Back in his circle, Max released the hold on his mental construct but not the spell he had woven on his senses. What he needed now was technological competence. So he concentrated and created a skill construct.
[spoiler]
Releasing Spirit of Men (and consequently the two spells it has cast on me)
Summoning and channeling an R5 Task spirit (comes as an R6) spirit
Summoning F5(6) Taskspirit (http://orokos.com/roll/456300): 12d6t5 2 [12d6t5=1, 2, 2, 3, 2, 2, 5, 4, 3, 2, 5, 4]
F5(6) Taskspirit Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/456301): 6d6t5 3
No Net success: Resist 6 Drain
Drain Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/456303): 15d6t5 7
No Drain
Try again:
Summoning F5(6) Taskspirit (http://orokos.com/roll/456304): 12d6t5 4
F5(6) Taskspirit Resist (http://orokos.com/roll/456305): 6d6t5 1
Nice, 3 Services, 2 Drain
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/456306): 15d6t5 7
No Drain
Spirit gets Computer skill (6) for Max to use
Matrix Search for Alverez (Ork, Halloweener)
INT 10+Skill 6 - Spell upkeep 1
Apply Penalties as appropriate
Matrix Search (http://orokos.com/roll/456309): 15d6t5 7 [15d6t5=4, 6, 2, 1, 5, 6, 3, 1, 3, 5, 3, 5, 5, 5, 3]
Seems like the dice roller is stuck on seven for 15 dice :)
[/spoiler]
It took a moment longer than usual until he had created the right mental image, but then he suddenly had all the necessary knowledge to competently use his commlink. Laying on his bed, he dived into the Matrix.
-
With a bag over his shoulder and his axe in his left hand, Twitch acknowledged what Max had said and went in search of a room for himself. He settled for the bedroom closest to the living room, arranging his equipment around and generally making this space his own. Wanting to know more about the neighbourhood, he went on the Matrix to look for a map of the surrounding area. *The closest place for food is a standing noodle bar. I wonder if Max has had a chance to try it out yet.*
Looking a bit more, he noticed there was a Stuffer Shack not far from the noodle bar, which both pleased and at the same time annoyed him. All those late night patrols when he was further down the promotion ladder came rushing back to him, Stuffer Shack being the only thing open at those hours. The taste of krill "ham" and soy "cheese" sandwiches making an appearance on his taste buds, Weber decided to get out of his room and stretch his legs on the couch, watching the first interesting thing on the Trid he could find.
-
The whole team gets an unexpected message from Lt. Murphy. <Detective Weber is to report to the precinct for formal questioning regarding case #638044. Please be advised he will be on formal administrative leave effective immediately and further involvement in ongoing cases will be suspended pending said investigation.>
A second message is sent moments later, this one less formal in tone. <Andrew, just come over quietly so we can get this resolved and you'll be back on the force in the blink of an eye.>
The rookie detective got off of his seat and went to the room to gather his things, quiet as a mouse. The message seemed to take all the winds out of his sails.
-
Max received the message during his searches and sent back a short: <<Acknowledged. Thanks for your help detective. Try to resolve the issue and come back here if you can. We aren't exactly overstaffed and you are a valuable team member.
Lt. Murphy, I have a plan how to fill this vacancy. We'll soldier on regardless, but I would appreciate an additional body in the breach.>>
-
A few minutes later, Max received a reply from Lt. Murphy. <I'll try to find another poor soul interested in undercover work, but it might take some time to vet potential candidates. Meanwhile, prove me right in choosing you and get us closer to that doomsday plot.>
-
@Max
After a few hours of searching the Matrix, your spirit comes back with something that can be contained in a single page. The list reads like a typical ganger summary, with some vague mentions in local news and various court appearances scattered throughout the years for minor offences such as possession, battery and such, but for some reason there is no mention of Alverez in the last 8 months.
The spirit, without saying a word, lets you know it is waiting for your second command.
-
Abran has spent the better part of the day moving into the new digs, and getting a feel for the lay of the land in the surrounding area. It's dangerous, no doubt, but the expansive base of operations is secure, and he thinks that it will do nicely. When Max lets Abran know that they're running as a duo, at least for the short term, and that the pressure is still on them to produce, to say nothing about how Skids and his crew would react to radio silence and nothing done on their part, Abran wracks his brain for some avenue of building the case, but when all of Undercover Operations are handled in one three-credit course at the uni, he's unsure where else to turn in the short term.
He sets down a box of noodles in front of his superior officer, and begins slurping away at his own in the common room. "Well, sir, I mean, I mean Max, without a bone coming in from headquarters, I'm not sure what else we can do besides go and put eyes on some Halloweener joints and see what comes of it. We could also see about getting a jacket or two for some still-living lieutenants, and maybe have a chat with one of them? You're a mojo slinger, right? You have any of that, make-a-fragger-look-different wizzers? I mean, I bet we could press pretty hard to get the answers we're looking for, but it could make the rest of the job harder to pull off, scan?"
-
[spoiler]
Just to clear up a slight misconception:
Max is a Psionic - he doesn't actually talk to his spirits nor do they talk to him since for him they are only mental constructs and talking to them is like talking to himself. Also he uses Channeling so he can get direct access to the skills for himself (it's like remembering a skill you once possessed)
[/spoiler]
Max just looked at Abran for a second with his piercing eyes before he answered: "Surveillance is the most safe option but probably also the most time consuming one and success is far from assured. Since we still don't know when and where the fireworks are planed I fear we aren't in a position to rely on the safe option.
I can't disguise us, but I can render us invisible.
So if you are up for it, we can do a little breaking and entering at a local Helloweener Chapter and see if we can't catch anything interesting. If that doesn't work, we can always just snatch a lieutenant and bring him somewhere secluded for a little chat."
-
"Works, for me," Abran says, wiping his chin with a napkin. "If we're going to try breaking into a chapter house, we should probably wait until either really early, say 5 or 6 in the morning, or mid-day, unless we can put eyes on them going out for a raid.
"Drek, it may even be good to go after one of the downtown branches. Stay as far away from Alverez as possible right now, and, uh, they tend to be pretty active in their pursuits. Can you get on the horn with the LT and see about getting us some nuyen to throw around? I could use a Suppressor my SMG, an Ares model Sigma 3 if we're going to run around acting like real-life shadowrunners."
he pauses for a moment, doing his best to enjoy the noodles while his superior officer responds, and then snaps his fingers.
"Wait a sec. We know Alverez is shaking things up. Lieutenants are coming up dead or missing. I bet one or two have bugged out, rather than wait around, especially if they backed the wrong horse. We get a hold of one of those guys and we're both working toward similar aims, wiz?
"Imma tap my bartender friend, see if any lost souls been coming around. If I was a ganger trying to stay outta Redmond and Downtown, Renton might be just the place."
<<@Ed [Abran] Any new guys been coming round the last few weeks? Have the look of ganger to 'em, but sure as drek aren't flying their colors? That fit the description of anyone you've seen?>>
-
Max slowly shook his head: "No advances, I'm afraid. Secure operation can't have a pay trail leading to us. I have some reserves, but all in all we have to content with what we got until our first payday."
He thought a second about the proposal: "Hm, can't hurt to ask for them. But if they can be found that easily we sure have to hurry to speak to them, because a guy like Alverez doesn't seem to be the kind to leave any loose ends. So go for it, but after that we need to hurry."
-
@Abran
A few minutes pass by before receiving an answer to your message. <Funny you should mention it, I been seeing this new customer 'round, but don't look like no gangbanger to me. Keeps to 'erself and always orders the same brew, 'round the same time every Thursday too.>
-
Max addressed Abran: "So, do you have anything from your contact?"
-
Abran frowns a little. "Maybe. New customer coming 'round, but he says she doesn't look like a ganger. 'sides, she won't be in for almost a week. That's cutting things razor thin."
-
"Nevertheless it's a lead to go on. If we can get an accurate description or even better an image, I can try to create a mind-net construct to pin-point the location. I'll call Murphy while we ride regarding the replacement."
When they reached the bar, Max gave Abran the lead to hang back and observe.
-
As the team arrived to the watering hole, both members got a message from Lt. Murphy. <I've got some good news/bad news for you: the good news is you will have a new teammate that goes by the codename "Vultus". The bad news is she isn't a police officer, so I would ask that you keep sensitive information to yourselves and treat the rest on a need-to-know basis. I have given her the location to your safe house and given her your commcodes, so expect contact sometime soon.>
-
Max acknowledged the message and turned to Abram: "Now be careful. From what Murphy says this Vultus might be quite charming and I won't hold it against you if you show interest, but her warning is not unfounded. Operational security trump personal relations. Keep your cards close to the chest."
As he entered the bar, he took a look around and decided to order a beer at the bar and play a game of dart while they waited for the new team member to arrive and Abram to talk in person to his contact.
-
Max acknowledged the message and turned to Abran: "Now be careful. From what Murphy says this Vultus might be quite charming and I won't hold it against you if you show interest, but her warning is not unfounded. Operational security trump personal relations. Keep your cards close to the chest."
"Hey, I got it," Abran says defensively. I'm not my fraggin' dad.
Inside the bar Max buys a beer and takes over one of the empty dart machines while Abran takes a moment to talk with Ed. "Any chance our lady decided to break her habits and come in early?" he asks.
"No such luck," Ed says, placing a pitcher on the counter. "Ghost, you're even uglier than the last time I saw you."
"Well, you're charming as ever," Abran says. "Let me know if the situation changes, wiz?"
Ed nods, and Abran joins max, pouring his synth beer into a pint glass of questionable cleanliness. "So, if we can't trust her with operational details, how are we gonna get this done?"
Before Max can answer, they each get a ping from the new recruit.
<<@ Team [Vultus] This is Vultus. I was told I should contact you.>>
"I got it," Abran says, sending her a ping for the location.
<<@Vultus [Abran] Meet us at a place called the Hole in the Wall. Lives up to its name. I'd leave the nice clothes at home.>>
<<Attachment: Location>>
-
"Oh no, not as drastic as that: I meant don't reveal personal info like where you worked before or contacts. Operational data we'll have to share."
Max wasn't good at throwing darts - at least not when he left the exercise purely to his muscles and nerves. So instead he used a bit of his enlightened will to get the darts on target - after that it was only a matter of minutes before had beaten the existing records.
When he was done with that and Vultus hadn't shown herself yet, he took up the conversation from before:
"It's a good habit to get into anyway. It's not particularly healthy for a marriage, but neither are you endangering your loved ones either by making them a potential hostage or giving them dangerous knowledge someone might try to get from them. Need to know keeps everyone alive..."
-
I do a quick matrix search for the hole in the wall and call a cab. If the cab doesn't take me all the way I'll have to do some walking it seems. I check my taser and gun just in case and head to the bar.
-
Max stopped talking when a tall, red headed girl entered the bar. He noticed immediately the self assured posture combined with a quick check for danger, indicating a professional.
He nodded to Abram: "Seems like the lady knows how to read the clock." He gave her a short wave to get her attention.
-
After a quick scan of the bar for obvious hostiles I catch sight of an arm raised in greeting. I recognize Max and nod in return and head to the table.
Gents. Pleasure to meet you...again in your case. I say nodding to Max at the end. I offer a mark on my comlink to them both. Once accepted I continue on coms.
Didn't get much of a briefing on what we are doing, specifically. Got a sitrep for me?
-
The buzz from the patrons dies down a bit as Vultus enters, the draft from the door opening separating the smoke from the room and giving everyone a clear image of the latest customer to enter, most eyes turned on her. As Max waves to her, the rest of the crowd goes back to their conversations, the room's atmosphere fully enveloping the redhead as she walks towards the table where Max and Abran are sitting.
-
"It's not particularly complicated: A loon called Alvarez has taken over the Halloweeners leadership and now plans a terror attack on Seattle by using fuel trucks as bombs. We are trying to find out where he is and then take him out of play.
We are here because Mercury" he indicated at Abran, "has possibly found a lead to an ex-lieutenant of the gang that might come here once in a while.
Our next plan of action is to break into one of their chapter houses and try to find out Alvarez' location.
Oh and for the duration of this mission we are using call signs. Mine is 'Gladius'."
Max replied without anymore small talk.
-
When he was done with that and Vultus hadn't shown herself yet, he took up the conversation from before:
"It's a good habit to get into anyway. It's not particularly healthy for a marriage, but neither are you endangering your loved ones either by making them a potential hostage or giving them dangerous knowledge someone might try to get from them. Need to know keeps everyone alive..."
Abran is about to ask Max if he has any kids when he realizes that would be missing the point entirely. Gotta make a good impression with this guy if I'm gonna stay out of beat work for any length of time. Having a Fire Watch chum'll be handy next time I come up for the Sergeant's test.
When Vultus walks in the whole bar stops and takes note. Abran does as well. She approaches, introductions are made, and Gladius apprises her of the situation.
"So, what's your spec, Vultus?" Abran asks. "We're light on intel, so that's our primary short term goal."
-
Me? I can do a little of everything, but I specialize in er...human resources.
-
"I remember," Max replied, "You had quite some success with the Maccency Case last year - getting the exec to confess without you having a shred of evidence was quite a remarkable bluff.
So tell me, seen from a human angle, how would you go and find Alverez?"
-
Is this location operationally secure? I text, glancing around. I wouldn't want stray ears overhearing us.
I continue aloud Everyone wants something. We find out what that is, become that something and he will find us. I suppose it depends on what intel we have, to determine the best course. What do we know about this guy?
-
"I'd say so, at least since I've started the white noise generator.
So far we know this:
- The leader is an orc called Alverez
- He appears to be a violent psychopath - at least that's the impression our contacts have given us
- He has killed or exiled a lot of the former Halloweener leadership
- He has reorganized and to some extend professionalized the Halloweeners
- He plans to blow up a bunch of fuel trucks in the city - a contact of mine complained about stolen detonators
- The Ancients are keen to see him gone - we managed to get them to pay us for his demise
- We do have another option of steeling a Fuel Truck ourselves and offering it to the Halloweeners, although I'm reluctant to give them more ammo - not to mention that this would be a serious crime.
All in all that leaves us with few options, besides taking a direct look at one of the chapter houses.
If I can get a clear picture and/or description of him, I can create a mental construct to track down his location. After that it's just a regular assault to take care of him."
Max explained to Vultus.
-
A psychopath should be easy then. We just find the person he wants to kill the most and set up a meet or leak an opportunity too good to pass up. The Ancients have a beef with him does he want any of them dead? We don't even have to have the guy for real. He just needs to think we do.
-
Is this location operationally secure? I text, glancing around. I wouldn't want stray ears overhearing us.
<<@Vultus [Mercury] What makes you think comms are secure?>> he types out smugly, and hits send.
This, this is why people don't like you, Abran, he worries to himself, but it's too late. Way to make a first impression.
He vows to play nice, so when Vultus gives her read on the situation he tries to make it work.
"Hard part will be trying to meet wit Alvarez personally. If we go in like we know his name, they're going to want to know why we do, and why we won't deal with anyone else. Doubtful a little hit job is going to get us in the room with the boss. Now manufacturing an opportunity, that could have some legs to it. I like how you think. What do you have in mind?"
-
Is he a secret then? Hmm. We just have to put ourselves in this guys shoes and think like he thinks to do that. I don't think we have enough intel on this guy yet is all.
-
"Correct. That's why we want to go on a recon mission. Say, you wouldn't happen to have enhanced your repertoire with cyber-security skills? That might come in handy when we examine their communications.
There is a chapter house of the Halloweeners in the barrens not far from here. The plan is for us to get invisible and sneak inside. After all, they must be in contact with the new boss somehow.
Naturally, I'm prepared to go alone with you as back up, but while I'm maintaining spells I won't be at my full capacity, so I wouldn't mind having on site support."
Max replied.
"But since we won't find our informant here tonight, we might as well get back to base. I'm sure you'll like the place, Vultus."
[spoiler]
Knowledge: Area (Seattle) (http://orokos.com/roll/484149): 9d6t5 2
[/spoiler]
-
I don't have a deck or anything, but I know a few tricks. If you are talking full on matrix support though I don't think I can help.
-
"If it comes to that, I can also create a capable construct to do matrix stuff, but I don't have the necessary hardware.
But there's no sense in growing grey hairs about it. We'll have a look around and see what we can find out.
As long as we don't know when they want to strike we have to assume that it could happen any minute."
Max stood up to pay for their drinks and nodded towards the exit when they came back.
"Are you ready for action, or do you need to gear up first?"
-
"I'd say a little recon work is a wizzer of an idea," Abran says, filling up a glass for Vultus from his pitcher. "I'd just as soon go along with you, if you're willing, Gladius. I can keep my head down and my profile low, even more so if you have some invisibility to spread around. Vultus, how are you in a clinch? You want to come with, or run overwatch to make sure we don't step in the drek?"
Abran finishes off his pint, and tips a 20 to Ed off his link while he isn't looking.
"As for gear, I'm ready to slot and run. Shall we?"
-
"Alright, let's go."
Max got up and led the two back to the parking lot.
-
I know how to use a gun and i can fight if I have to, but then I don't usually have to. I'll come along, see what we can see. Can I get a ride from someone?
-
"We have a car. For this exercise it will be better not to go near the gangers with bikes of our own.
Mercury, you take the wheel, I'll have to concentrate on creating a suitable construct."
After a quick stop at the base to get all necessary gear, Max began to focus to augment his body and abilities.
[spoiler]
Summoning:
Summoning F7(8) Spirit of Men (http://orokos.com/roll/485210): 15d6t5 7
Spirit resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485207): 8d6t5 3
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485206): 11d6t5 4
2 Drain, 4 Services
Optional Abilities: Increase Reflexes, Improved Intuition
Spirit Channeled
2 Services: Cast and maintain both spells on Max
Increase Reflexes F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/485214): 16d6t5 8
+8 Ini +4d6
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485218): 16d6t5 7
1 Stun
Increase Intuition F6 (http://orokos.com/roll/485221): 1614d6t5 4[16d6t5=5, 2, 6, 1, 4, 3, 1, 1, 4, 4, 6, 5, 1, 1, 3, 1]
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485216): 16d6t5 3
No Drain
Max takes Psyche
Casting three Invisibility spells:
Improved Invisibility F4 (http://orokos.com/roll/485223): 13d6t5 2 Max
Improved Invisibility F4 (http://orokos.com/roll/485224): 12d6t5 2 Abram
Improved Invisibility F4 (http://orokos.com/roll/485225): 11d6t5 3 Vultus
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485226): 15d6t5 4
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485227): 15d6t5 4
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485228): 15d6t5 0
Ouch. Another 3 Stun
Total 6 Stun - suppressed by Channeled Spirit
Another Service (1 remaining): Concealment on Group: -8 to perceive everyone
Max carries -3 Sustaining Penalty. +4 to all his physical attributes.
[/spoiler]
When they had reached the vicinity of the target, Max opened his eyes. His skin was pallid and showed slight bruises, but his movements were once again inhumanly fluid and graceful. One by one he touched his companions and himself on the shoulder, making them shimmer and vanish.
"Alright. Comms in silent mode. Give MARKs to each other so you can pinpoint your individual locations without running into each other. Communications only through commlink. Good Luck."
-
I switch skillwire system to sneaking, tracking and computers. I'll make a few matrix perception tests as I investigate.
[spoiler]matrix perception tests (http://orokos.com/roll/485261): 7d6t5 4 7d6t5 2 7d6t5 3 7d6t5 3 7d6t5 5 in case you need em[/spoiler]
-
[spoiler]Everyone make a passive perception check.
2 Services: Cast and maintain both spells on Max
Increase Reflexes F8 (http://orokos.com/roll/485214): 16d6t5 8
+8 Ini +4d6
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485218): 16d6t5 7
1 Stun
Increase Intuition F6 (http://orokos.com/roll/485221): 1614d6t5 4[16d6t5=5, 2, 6, 1, 4, 3, 1, 1, 4, 4, 6, 5, 1, 1, 3, 1]
Drain resist (http://orokos.com/roll/485216): 16d6t5 3
No Drain
Is it because I'm reading this the wrong way or should you be sustaining one point of drain damage on that second resist test?
[/spoiler]
The night is weighing heavily on the rundown neighbourhood, the air smelling like imminent rain. The local Halloweener's hangout in this area is surrounded with mahjong joints, bunraku parlours, pawn shops, and cheap eateries. The place itself is a cross between a nightclub and a bar; you suspect the former was converted into the latter. The only light available is coming from nearby buildings and businesses. The establishment's neon sign is both dark and broken, making it difficult to make out what this place is called. The place is unusually low-profile Matrix-wise and you can see a few gangers outside drinking, smoking and otherwise wasting time.
@Ennui
[spoiler]Vultus sees a dozen or so commlinks inside the place with various things slaved to them. The hangout's icon is pretty weak and seems both dated and hastily pot together.[/spoiler]
-
[spoiler]
Increase Intuition is F-3, so it was exactly on point
But as long as Max channels the spirit he can ignore 8 points of wound modifiers, so it's not that important at the moment.
Passive Perception (http://orokos.com/roll/487392): 13d6t5 65 [13d6t5=1, 4, 2, 6, 6, 2, 1, 6, 6, 5, 2, 4, 6]
or 3 if it's not vision based
[/spoiler]
Max carefully studied the environment while concentrating on maintaining the spells.
<<Alright, our best approach will be to enter from the first or second floor instead of moving through a crowded ground floor. I think I can manage to levitate us up so one of you can open a window. From there we can work our way down.>>
-
[spoiler]perception test (http://orokos.com/roll/487419): 9d6t5 3[/spoiler]
I could just go in and schmooze a bit while you guys search around upstairs
-
<<Schmooze? With Halloweeners? You know that they hate everybody that smells even a little bit like corporation.
Going in there just for a lark is playing with fire - literally, since those Halloweeners are all to some extend pyromaniacs.
Besides, I think we need your breaking and entering skills. If we don't find what we look for, we can always try your social approach - but with us being ready to give you back up at a moment's notice.>>
Max replied.
-
Okay. you can levitate me up if you want then.
-
<<Wait, I just noticed that there are three cars with Halloweeners moving away. They might be on their way to a larger gathering - chances are that Alverez could be the cause. We'll get back here afterwards.>>
With that, Max dropped the three invisibility spells to be able to concentrate on his driving. He got the car in gear and started to follow the three other cars.
As an aside he messaged Murphy: <<We are investigating a bunch of gangers, find attached some plate numbers. I need all the information you can give me on those cars and their owners as well as where they are heading in the unlikely case that they have grid guide on.>>
-
You quickly get back on the road and push the car as fast as it can go without squealing the tires and skidding across the road. You hold little hope that you can catch up to the cars you passed by about 30 seconds ago. Taking wild guesses and making assumptions, Max heads towards a general direction. A minute passes without seeing many cars on the road, yet still nothing. Another minute passes by and you start to think perhaps they went in the wrong direction. Just as you are about to head back to the hideout Max notices one of the cars at the end of a street, rounding a corner.
-
<<We are in luck - there they are. I'll try to follow them unobtrusively - unless one of you feels better qualified. I'll gladly give the wheel to you.>>
Max carefully changed lanes to keep up with the car, but without drawing to close.
-
A light drizzle starts as the car drives towards its target. Max tries to keep some distance but not at the risk of losing visual contact. The other car seems to be driving by itself and after a few blocks starts to drive more aggressively and accelerate away from you.
[spoiler] Roll initiative.[/spoiler]
-
[spoiler]
Let's see: Base Ini 11 +4 Int +4 Rea +8 Increase Reflexes + 5d6
Ini (http://orokos.com/roll/491612): 27+5d6 39 [5d6=2, 4, 2, 2, 2]
And just for good measure a piloting test, since at least for control vehicle I'll need one.
Piloting Ground (http://orokos.com/roll/491615): 10d6t5 2
[/spoiler]
"Fasten your seat belts, the gangers just disengaged the autopilot."
-
[spoiler]
Initiative (http://orokos.com/roll/491647): 10+3d6 19
[/spoiler]
Abran pops and checks the mag on his SMG and racks a round. Satisfied, he tightens the belt around his shoulder and waist. "We can go as loud or quiet as you want, Gladius. Just let me know."
-
I shrug and fasten my seat belt, but pull out the pistol just in case.
[spoiler]initiative (http://orokos.com/roll/492163): 3d6+8 17[/spoiler]